《I Shall Be Everlasting In the World of Immortals》


 Chapter 1: Jin Yun Assessment

    Chapter 1: Jin Yun Assessment


    Liang Nation, Jin Yun Valley.


    The third stage of the Immortal Sect''s assessment, the Illusion Heart tform.


    On the circr tform made of white jade, one to two hundred youths were enveloped in a pale purple light, trapped in illusions, their expressions ranging from anger, fear, to grief and despair...


    "Hiss!"


    Lan Chang''an grunted and suddenly woke up.


    His brows furrowed, sweat beads the size of beans dripped from his forehead. It felt as if a seal deep in his brain had been broken, subjected to a torrential rush of information!


    "Not bad! The third person to awaken on the Illusion Heart tform, exceptional willpower."


    Not far away, several sect masters whispered among themselves.


    The Illusion Heart tform was the final stage of the entrance assessment for Jin Yun Valley, focusing on mental state and willpower."Lan Chang''an, medium-grade spiritual roots, ranked third on the Illusion Heart tform, he can be considered a budding immortal..."


    "Hmm? Only at the Qi Refining First Stage but nearing eighteen years old?"


    "What a pity..."


    A few voices of regret echoed around.


    ...


    "In the cultivation world of Liang Nation... Jin Yun Valley''s entrance assessment..."


    "Lan Chang''an, nearing eighteen years old?"


    "Breaking the mystery of cultivationter in this life than in the previous one, past the optimal age for cultivation."


    On the Illusion Heart tform, Lan Chang''an''s facial muscles twitched, his gaze profound.


    From the memories of this world, he found himself in a different cepared to the first and second lives.


    "Upon awakening in this life, I once again acquired the Nine Seal Stele, and the initial strength of my soul seems to surpass even that of the second life?"


    Lan Chang''an rxed his brows, his expression returning to normal.


    He closed his eyes slightly, seemingly conserving his energy.


    Right, the Nine Seal Stele!


    In the depths of his mind, a simple and ancient ck stone stele emerged, its surface adorned with abstract patterns.


    The Nine Seal Stele was the mysterious ancient stele he identally encountered on Earth, thus beginning his extraordinary journey of cultivation.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t know the origins of this stele, so he simply named it based on its appearance.


    On the front of the stele.


    From top to bottom, there were nine rectangr seal-like imprints.


    In the first seal, a handsome young man holding a brush was depicted, his posture upright.


    In the second seal, there was an old man in ink robes, his feet stepping on a beam of light.


    The first two seals were dim and lifeless, the figuresparable to still images.


    But the third seal was a faint white light of a young boy''s phantom.


    Faintly discernible, not yet fully depicted on the stele.


    This phantom of the young boy perfectly matched Lan Chang''an''s current appearance.


    The remaining six seal imprints below were all nk.


    Counting from the first life he traversed from Earth to the cultivation world, this was already the third life.


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his consciousness from the Nine Seal Stele, briefly summarizing the experiences of the previous two lives.


    In the first life, he initially arrived in the cultivation world, with average aptitude, a mere wandering cultivator, stumbling through and barely cultivating to the ninth level of Qi Refining.


    The only thing noteworthy was his talent in drawing symbols.


    Ultimately, in a bid for a chance to establish his foundation, he fell in battle due to his inferior skills.


    In the second life, born into a prominent cultivation family, with superior spiritual roots, having the insights and skill in symbols from the first life as a bonus, He advanced swiftly to the peak of thete stage of Foundation Establishment and even reached Core Formation.


    But in the end, he failed to break through to the Nascent Soul stage, perishing in the midst of cultivation.


    "In the previous two lives, I only scratched the surface abilities of the Nine Seal Stele. I specte that at least reaching the Nascent Soul stage, after undergoing a qualitative change in soul strength, can one excavate the true secrets of the ''Nine Seal Stele.''"


    At this point, Lan Chang''an had already rified his goal for this life.


    "The Nascent Soul stage!"


    If he couldn''t reach this realm, the ''Nine Seal Stele'' might continue his reincarnation... up to nine times at most.


    Of course, this was an optimistic spection.


    Perhaps there were only "Three Lives, Three Worlds."


    If he failed in this life, perhaps what awaited him would be utter annihtion!


    ...


    "Ah! No..."


    As time passed, the youths on the Illusion Heart tform gradually woke up, the scene bing noisy, interrupting Lan Chang''an''s thoughts.


    "Lan Chang''an, when did you wake up?"


    Several nearby youths looked at Lan Chang''an, who had awakened earlier than them, with some surprise.


    "Lucky, woke up a bit earlier than you guys."


    Lan Chang''an remained calm, surveying the two boys and one girl in front of him.


    They were all promising talents brought from Hengshui Prefecture, who had met on the way.


    Zhao Siyao, medium-grade spiritual roots, from a schrly family.


    Only fourteen or fifteen years old, she was already graceful and delicate, with bright eyes and delicate lips, truly a budding beauty.


    Lin Yi, low-grade spiritual roots, the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Guang''an.


    A young man of sixteen or seventeen, dressed in fine clothes, with sharp eyebrows and a heroic look. Among the group, he had the highest cultivation level, reaching the third level of Qi Refining.


    At this moment, Lin Yi''s expression was gloomy.


    Li Ergou, low-grade spiritual roots, from a peasant family.


    Dressed in coarse short clothes, he was thin and dark-skinned, looking a bit flustered and timid, not daring to approach Lin Yi and Zhao Siyao.


    "Big Brother Lan, the third stage was so difficult. If it weren''t for the sudden crowing of my family''s rooster, I would''ve almost fell into a life of luxury..."


    Li Ergou shivered with lingering fear, patting his chest, naturally getting closer to Lan Chang''an.


    Due to differences in social status, the rtionship between several talented youths from the same region varied.


    Lin Yi exuded an air of nobility, which made Li Ergou instinctively apprehensive.


    Zhao Siyao, as a well-educateddy from a prestigious family, was polite to everyone, not looking down on Li Ergou and Lan Chang''an due to their humble origins.


    Li Ergou, however, didn''t dare to meet the beautiful and lively Zhao Siyao''s eyes.


    The gaze of a beauty would asionally fall on him, making him blush and feel at a loss. Fortunately, his darkplexion helped to conceal it.


    Li Ergou was only close to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an was an orphan but at the same time, he had another identity: a martial artist of the rivers andkes, a master of a sect.


    To be precise, he was the adopted son of the leader of the Angry River Gang in Hengshui Prefecture.


    Lan Chang''an had excellent martial arts aptitude from a young age, already a second-rate martial artist in the martial world despite his young age.


    ording to the original n, he was to take over as the leader of the gang from his adoptive father in a few years.


    However, two years ago, he befriended a destitute Taoist priest and learned that he actually possessed spiritual roots for cultivation, and even a medium-grade spiritual root with decent talent.


    Hence, Lan Chang''an''s life trajectory changed.


    In the third stage of the Jin Yun Valley assessment, the Illusion Heart tform, he regained memories from his previous life.


    ...


    "Ergou, with your spiritual roots, once you step onto the path of immortality, whether you were once a king or a farmer... It''s all in the past."


    Lan Chang''an looked at the humble and timid Li Ergou, patting his shoulder lightly.


    After two lives of cultivation, Lan Chang''an remained true to his original intentions and didn''t turn into a strange old monster with hundreds of years of mental maturity.


    This was the miraculous aspect of the Nine Seal Stele.


    It was as if he had awakened from an immersive movie, his consciousness returning, just with two lifetimes of cultivation memories added.


    Even with more life experiences and broader horizons, his true heart remained as it was when he first crossed into the cultivation world.


    "Yea-yeah, I know. Thank you, Brother Lan..."


    Li Ergou rubbed the back of his head, feeling a warm sensation.


    "Lan Chang''an, what ce did you get in the third stage, the Illusion Heart tform?"


    At this moment, Lin Yi, whose face was increasingly uneasy, couldn''t help but ask.


    Lan Chang''an nced at Lin Yi, the noble son, thoughtfully.


    If he remembered correctly, Lin Yi was thest to awaken among them on the Illusion Heart tform in the third stage.


    In terms of cultivation, Lin Yi was the highest among them, reaching the third level of Qi Refining.


    However, in this test of mental state and willpower in the third stage, Lin Yi''s performance was surprisingly the worst!


    Even Li Ergou, who came from a peasant background, was slightly better than him.


    "It seems like I got third ce," Lan Chang''an pondered.


    "Third ce?"


    Lin Yi''s pupils contracted slightly, his face unsightly, seemingly unable to ept such a disparity.


    In the previous two stages, his overall performance was consistently superior to Lan Chang''an''s.


    "I didn''t expect Brother Lan''s willpower to be so outstanding. Truly worthy of being a martial hero! Congrattions..."


    Zhao Siyao was also surprised, raising her eyebrows gracefully, her eyes flickering.


    On the way to the sect, Lan Chang''an, as a martial artist from the martial world, had plentiful experience and an amicable disposition, making him close to Zhao Siyao through conversing along the way.


    Moreover, being the oldest among them, Zhao Siyao called him ''Brother Lan.''


    The rtionship between the two was even closer than the one between Lin Yi, who came from a noble family, and Zhao Siyao.


    Seeing that his worries were true, Lin Yi''s mood worsened, but he forced himself to calm down, casually saying, "It''s a pity, if Brother Lan could have taken first ce on the Illusion Heart tform, he could ignore the results of the previous two stages and directly pass the assessment to be an outer disciple of Jin Yun Valley."


    "First ce on the Illusion Heart tform allows direct entry into the sect?"


    Lan Chang''an was taken aback, unaware of this information.


    He felt a slight regret in his heart. If he had awakened a few days earlier and gained the soul enhancement from the Nine Seal Stele, his entrance assessment would have been almost guaranteed.


    After two lifetimes of cultivation memories, Lan Chang''an didn''t want to be a wandering cultivator. He deeply felt the hardships of a wandering cultivator in his first life.


    In the immortal cultivation path, "wealth,panionship, techniques, andnd" were all indispensable. Among them, nd," referring to the cultivation site, rankedst.


    And in the cultivation world, almost all spiritual veins, blessednds, and even deste beasts upied them.


    The secr areas were called "spiritually poor areas," with extremely thin and barren spiritual energy. It was not suitable for cultivation at all! Without a cultivation site, the efficiency of cultivation could be more than ten times worse!


    Ranked first was "wealth," referring to cultivation resources such as spiritual stones, elixirs, and magic treasures.


    Without a cultivation site or resources for cultivation, even with outstanding cultivation talent, the early stages of cultivation wouldn''t be so smooth.


    Therefore, Lan Chang''an wouldn''t miss the opportunity to enter the sect.


    "Those called by name, step forward!"


    Before long, a steward from Jin Yun Valley floated in the air, beginning to announce the list of those who passed the assessment.


    Feel free to point out any errors you find, thanks.???¡á?

 Chapter 2: A Door Apart

    Chapter 2: A Door Apart


    "Zhang Tieshan... Zhao Siyao... Ye Lei..."


    The steward of Jin Yun Valley recited the names of dozens of people in one breath.


    The people whose names were called out were overjoyed, harboring aspirations for the immortal path in the future.


    "My name isn''t on the list... Did they forget to call it?"


    Lin Yi bit his lip, finding it hard to believe.


    Seventeen years old, Qi Refining Third Stage, low-grade spiritual roots, he should have met the standard.


    It wasn''t only Lin Yi whose name wasn''t called out. Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou also didn''t pass the entrance assessment.


    "All others, leave the mountain gate immediately!"


    The steward of Jin Yun Valley''s expression was cold as he led the selected young talents away.The remaining hundred-plus youths, including Lin Yi and Li Ergou, had dim expressions, feeling resentful.


    Lan Chang''an remained calm, having expected this oue.


    The age limit for Jin Yun Valley''s entrance assessment was not to exceed eighteen years old.


    Lan Chang''an was just at the upper limit.


    If he had waited a few more months, he wouldn''t even have qualified for the assessment. Although his performance in the third stage was outstanding, his age and cultivation level were too far behind.


    With a bone age close to 18 and only at the Qi Refining First Stage, his potential was simply too low for the sect to consider. Even if his spiritual roots barely reached medium-grade, Jin Yun Valley wouldn''t have taken notice.


    ...


    "Big Brother Lan, does this mean we can''t cultivate immortality anymore?"


    On the way down the mountain, Li Ergou had a mournful expression, looking as if his dreams had been shattered.


    "Don''t be too disheartened. As long as you have spiritual roots, you can still cultivate. Worst case scenario, we''ll be wandering cultivators."


    Lan Chang''anforted him.


    In reality, he knew that with Li Ergou''s background and aptitude, bing a wandering cultivator would be extremely difficult.


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t worried, though. With two lifetimes of cultivation memories, he was confident, despite the rough start.


    Guided by two disciples from Jin Yun Valley, the group descended the mountain together.


    Passing by ake brimming with spiritual energy.


    Lan Chang''an took a deep breath, looking at the reflection of the young man on theke''s surface.


    In this life, his body had symmetrical and muscr lines, calluses on his palms from martial training.


    His face was rugged, with sharp features, and his eyes as ck as ink.


    Strong and robust, skilled in martial arts.


    He wasn''t a delicate weakling.


    Lan Chang''an nodded inwardly, satisfied with his current physique.


    "Senior Brother Yu, considering my performance in the assessment, why was I eliminated?"


    On the way down the mountain, Lin Yiined to a young disciple of Jin Yun Valley.


    Lin Yi had used his connections from the noble family before the entrance assessment to arrange things with Jin Yun Valley.


    "Junior Brother, you performed poorly in the third stage, the Illusion Heart tform. ording to the sect''s rules, unless you have superior-grade spiritual roots or above, you won''t be epted into the sect."


    Senior Brother Yu conveyed the message, inwardly sneering. How could Jin Yun Valley take in someone with such ordinary aptitude and weak mental state?


    "The Illusion Heart tform?" Lin Yi felt indignant, subconsciously ncing at Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an had performed so well in the third stage, yet he was still eliminated?


    Thinking of this, Lin Yi felt somewhat relieved. After all, he was the illegitimate son of a noble family. Backed by secr power, even if he wasn''t epted by the sect, his future would still be much better than that of an ordinary wandering cultivator.


    That being said. As they walked out of the Jin Yun Valley gate. Gazing at the gradually shrouded mist, the ethereal peaks, and the flying spiritual cranes...


    Lin Yi remained silent for a long time before sighing:


    "A gate separates the mortal from the immortal!"


    He understood that even with the backing of secr power, his future would be vastly different from that of the disciples of immortal sects who stood high above.


    "Zhao Siyao..."


    Thinking back to his attempts to win over the beautiful and talenteddy.


    Even fantasizing about standing side by side in the immortal sect and pursuing immortality together. However, as they stepped out of this gate.


    Zhao Siyao became an unreachable goddess of the heavens.


    In just one day, the gap in their lives had be so vast.


    ...


    "Brother Lan, Brother Li, our Marquis Guang''an''s mansion has some cultivation resources. Would you two like toe with me and develop in the secr world?"


    Walking out of the gate, Lin Yi''s attitude changed, and he seemed less arrogant.


    Lin Yi knew that it was difficult to thrive as a wandering cultivator, so it was best to stick together for warmth. He tried to recruit Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou using the power of the noble family.


    "I''ll follow Brother Lan''s lead."


    Li Ergou grinned foolishly, revealing his yellowed teeth.


    He didn''t have much of an opinion but trusted Lan Chang''an.


    Before, Lin Yi had shown no respect for him, rather disying a hint of disdain. Although he was an ignorant peasant, it didn''t mean he had no thoughts of his own.


    Compared to Lin Yi, Lan Chang''an was more grounded, speaking colloquially and treating Li Ergou with some care, easily gaining his trust.


    "Does the Marquis Guang''an mansion have a first-grade spiritual vein?"


    Lan Chang''an asked casually.


    "Not... not really."


    Lin Yi''s expression changed.


    He realized that he couldn''t deceive Lan Chang''an so easily!


    A first-grade spiritual vein could be used by cultivators in the Foundation Establishment period to elerate cultivation. There was a world of differencepared to the "spiritually poor areas" of the secr world.


    "In that case, I''ll pass." Lan Chang''an was straightforward. He waved his hand, interrupting Lin Yi''s attempt to persuade them.


    Without a first-grade spiritual vein, the Marquis Guang''an mansion could only provide some iplete cultivation techniques or mundane treasures like gold, silver, and precious medicinal herbs. These things were meaningless to Lan Chang''an.


    "Haha! Does Brother Lan need a first-grade spiritual vein? My Mu family has a second-grade spiritual vein. Would you like to join us?"


    A hearty voice came from the direction of the foot of the mountain. The speaker was a middle-aged man in a green robe, with a fairplexion and an elegant demeanor.


    "Qi Refining Eighth Stage?"


    Lan Chang''an''s powerful soul instinctively sensed the fluctuations of mana emanating from the man, making him vignt. However, in front of Jin Yun Valley''s mountain gate, outsiders dared not act recklessly.


    A second-grade spiritual vein, Mu family?


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes shed slightly as he spected about the man''s identity.


    "How should I address you, Senior?"


    "I am Mu Maode, the head of the Mu Family of cultivation in Feiyue Lake. I am recruiting young cultivators to join us." The middle-aged man''s expression was friendly as he exined his intentions.


    "So it''s Senior Mu." Lan Chang''an nodded and noticed a glint of light in Mu Maode''s eyes as he looked at him.


    "From what I know, don''t cultivation ns generally not cultivate outside bloodlines?" Someone in the crowd voiced their doubt.


    Most of the youths participating in the sect''s assessment came from the lower levels of society, at leastpared to the cultivation world. Most were from noble families, wealthy merchants, or even the descendants of cultivation families.


    "In recent years, our Mu family has suffered losses and needs to replenish with new blood, hence this special case. Of course, we aren''t recruiting the offspring of nobles or cultivation families."


    The Mu family head had already investigated the backgrounds of the youths participating in the assessment. He nced at Lan Chang''an, the only one with a medium-grade spiritual root, then scanned the rest of the youths.


    Speaking loudly, he announced, "My Mu family has ten spots! We''re recruiting young cultivators, providing spiritual vein cultivation grounds, cultivation techniques, and..." Hearing this, those without backgrounds couldn''t help but be moved.


    Having the support of a cultivation family was much better than being a wandering cultivator.


    "No pain, no gain. Senior Mu, could you please rify what we need to provide in return for the resources from noble families?" Lan Chang''an spoke frankly.


    The Mu family head looked at him with some surprise before chuckling softly, "I didn''t expect such insight from someone so young. Let me be clear."


    "I see you, Junior Brother Lan, as a remarkable talent who is destined for greatness. Our n has many well-educated youngdies from which you may choose one or several to be your wives or concubines." Hearing this, Li Ergou''s eyes widened, his chapped lips moving silently.


    "Is such a good thing possible?" Coming from a peasant background, he barely had enough to eat or clothes to keep his body warm. It was a luxury for him to marry an ordinary-looking woman in this lifetime. Let alone marry an educated and beautifuldy.


    Facing the enthusiastic recruitment from the Mu family head. Lan Chang''an, who possessed memories of two lifetimes, remained unruffled, though he sneered inwardly. Was it that the Mu family valued his spiritual roots?


    No!


    They were eyeing his kidneys...


    ...


    As expected, the Mu family head revealed his actual intents at the end of his recruitment speech.


    "Our requirement is this: Young cultivators who join the Mu family and bear offspring with our n''s women must pass the Mu family''s surname, especially if their offspring is born with spiritual roots!"


    "Isn''t this considered marrying into the family?" Li Ergou blurted out in surprise.


    The Mu family head didn''t mind and smiled, "Joining members need to father ten offspring. If you can leave behind a child with a medium-grade spiritual root or two children with low-grade spiritual roots for our n, it will count as fulfilling the condition. In return, the Mu family will provide you with cultivation grounds, cultivation techniques, and a certain amount of spiritual rice and elixirs each year."


    After hearing the conditions, Lan Chang''an shook his head inwardly. Was this considered marrying into the family? It was merely a disguised form of a breeding method.


    "Big Brother Lan, do you think this is reliable?" Li Ergou looked eagerly at Lan Chang''an, evidently tempted.


    "Are you not bothered by marrying into a family? You have several brothers in your own family"


    Li Ergou scratched his head, looking embarrassed. He then lowered his voice, saying somewhat excitedly:


    "Big Brother Lan! We can cultivate, have a ce to live, and even get married and have children... Isn''t this a great deal?"

 Chapter 3: Choosing The Cultivation Technique

    Chapter 3: Choosing The Cultivation Technique


    "Hmm, that makes sense." Lan Chang''an chuckled, not dismissing Li Ergou''s thoughts.


    For someone like Li Ergou, from a farming background, being able to marry and have children was the pinnacle of sess in life; cultivating immortality might just be a side pursuit.


    Lan Chang''an, on the other hand, was interested in the Mu family''s spiritual vein and had no interest in marrying and bearing children for them.


    In his previous life, he came from a prestigious cultivation family, reaching the pinnacle of Core Formation Realm, with numerous wives and offspring.


    "Junior Lan, you might want to consider it. The cultivation world in Liang Kingdom isn''t stable right now, and our Mu family, as a righteous cultivation family, has a good reputation."


    The head of the Mu family didn''t press the matter and turned to other young men.


    Lan Chang''an hadn''t made a decision yet and decided to inquire about the Mu family''s situation first.


    Lin Yi, who was well-informed, was approached by Lan Chang''an for information.


    Lin Yi didn''t refuse and pondered, "I seem to have heard of the Mu family by the Feiyue Lake...""Don''t rush. Let me look into it for you."


    Saying so, Lin Yi went into the crowd to inquire about the cultivation families.


    "Lan Big Brother, why is Young Master Lin so easy to talk to now?" Li Ergou muttered.


    Before this, Lin Yi had been dismissive of them. Towards the two of them, he had even been somewhat disdainful.


    Lan Chang''an smiled. Lin Yi was adapting to the role of a cultivator.


    Everyone had been eliminated by the sect and were now at the bottom of the cultivation world. Once Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou joined a cultivation family, their future prospects would be better than those of bottom-tier wandering cultivators.


    In the cultivation world, It was always better to have one more friend rather than an enemy.


    ...


    Shortly after, Lin Yi hurried back, saying seriously:


    "I''ve inquired. The Mu family by Feiyue Lake is a legitimate cultivation family with no bad reputation."


    "In recent years, they''ve suffered heavy losses from a dispute with the Zheng family over the ownership of a spiritual mine, losing nearly half of their young cultivators. Additionally, the Mu family hasn''t had many new recruits with spiritual roots in the past few years, so they urgently need to replenish their numbers!" Lan Chang''an understood immediately after hearing this.


    The young talents eliminated by the sect, had little value except for their spiritual roots.


    Since the head of the Mu family had personallye to recruit and wasn''t resorting to underhanded tactics, it was unlikely that they would face any problems.


    "Rumor has it that the Mu family''s only Foundation Establishment ancestor was seriously injured in a battle several years ago and might not live for more than ten years." Lin Yi suddenly lowered his voice. The implication was that the future prospects of the Mu family weren''t very optimistic.


    "I understand. Thank you for the reminder, Brother Lin." Lan Chang''an wasn''t concerned.


    If it weren''t for this special situation, how could outsiders like them have the opportunity to join a cultivation family? As for how long the Mu family''s ancestor would live and what the future held for the Mu family...


    It had nothing to do with him!


    Anyway, the Mu family was just a transitional ce in Lan Chang''an''s cultivation journey. If he encountered any trouble, he could just leave.


    ...


    "Junior Lan, what do you think?"


    The elegant-looking head of the Mu family, dressed in green robes, looked towards Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou, who had returned.


    "We both agree to join the Mu family. But this junior has a small request." Lan Chang''an arched his hand.


    "Oh, what is it?"


    "I, this junior, am sincerely dedicated to the immortal path. At the beginning of my cultivation journey, I do not wish to indulge in rtionships with women. I hope Senior Mu can give me a ten-year grace period. After ten years, I have no objection to marrying and having children."


    "Ten years?"


    The head of the Mu family snorted as if a muffled thunder echoed in the void.


    Li Ergou stumbled, his face pale, unable to say a word.


    At the Eighth Stage of Qi Refining, Mu Maode''s absolute dominance over the First Stage was evident.


    Lan Chang''an struggled to stabilize himself, feigning a frightened expression. But he didn''t retract his request.


    "Your will is admirable." After a moment of silence, the head of the Mu family made a concession:


    "My Mu family doesn''t raise idle people. I can give you a maximum of five years!"


    "Five years... Alright!" Lan Chang''an "reluctantly" agreed. Actually, he hadn''t expected to postpone for ten years. He just wanted to leave room for negotiation.


    Five years'' time was within his expectations.


    "In five years, if you vite the agreement, you''ll have to pay three times the resources provided by my Mu family." The head of the Mu family added with some meaning.


    He wasn''t stupid. He wouldn''t let a junior freeload on the family''s resources for several years and then run away. The concession was made because of Lan Chang''an''s medium-grade spiritual root.


    ...


    An hourter.


    The head of the Mu family selected ten young men with spiritual roots, including Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou. They were all young men with no background.


    "Alright, from now on, you will be the external disciples of the Mu family. Follow me back to our residence by Feiyue Lake." The Mu family head led the ten young men down the mountain.


    In addition to the Mu family head, there were four Mu family cultivators with Qi Refining stages ranging from the Fourth to the Sixth Layer apanying them.


    After leaving Jin Yun Valley.


    The Mu family didn''t fly, but rode on sturdy horses. These horses had a trace of spiritual horse bloodline, so even Li Ergou, who didn''t know how to ride, wasn''t ufortable riding it.


    "Big Brother Lan, why aren''t these cultivators flying us back to the family''s residence?" Li Ergou was somewhat disappointed. When they went to Jin Yun Valley for the assessment, they had ridden a flying boat.


    "Well... maybe the seniors want to toughen our bodies and wills on the journey." Lan Chang''an said with a solemn expression.


    He knew the reason, but as neers to the cultivation world without any background, they absolutely couldn''t act arrogant.


    At the Qi Refining stage, their mana was too weak, and they could only fly using magical tools, which wasn''t suitable for long-distance travel. Moreover, flying wasn''t fast enough, even slower than an ordinary car on Earth. And it would be burdensome to carry a group of neers along.


    Compared to flying, riding horses was more practical. It saved mana and energy. If they used up too much mana on a long-distance flight and were picked off by enemies, it would be a big joke.


    "Toughening our bodies and wills? That must be it! Big Brother Lan, you know so much!" Li Ergou suddenly realized and believed firmly.


    Their conversation couldn''t escape the Mu family members leading the way. The head of the Mu family remained silent, while the four Mu family cultivators had strange expressions, and their lips twitched slightly.


    ...


    As night fell.


    The Mu family rested in the wilderness.


    Hunting, setting up campfires, feeding the horses... The four Mu family cultivators instructed the young men to work.


    "Not even sparing any Vitality Restoration Pills?" Lan Chang''an looked at the wild boars and rabbits on the campfire rack, falling into contemtion. The economic situation of the Mu family by Feiyue Lake might be worse than he had imagined.


    "Excuse me, Head of the Family, how long will it take to reach the family residence?" One young man asked.


    "The horses you''re riding have a trace of the bloodline of spiritual horses, so it will only take three months to reach the family." The head of the Mu family sat in front of a separate campfire, with several Mu family disciples on guard near him.


    Three months? The 10 young men with spiritual roots looked at each other. Among them were some who were meditating, and their expressions looked grim.


    Before reaching the Mu family, they will be in the "spiritually poor area" of the mundane world, and their progress in cultivation would be abysmally slow. This didn''t even include the time spent resting on the journey.


    It was equivalent to saying that during the two or three months on the road, their cultivation would almoste to a standstill!


    "Yunfei, give each of them a piece of spiritual stone." The head of the Mu family hesitated for a moment and called over a handsome young Mu family member who was at the Fifth Layer of Qi Refining.


    "Spiritual stones?" Lan Chang''an felt a slight joy. It seemed he had misjudged the head of the Mu family.


    Soon, ten young men with spiritual roots received the distributed spiritual stones.


    Lan Chang''an looked at the handful of crystal particles in his palm, emitting a faint spiritual energy fluctuation, with a slight twitch at the corner of his mouth. This was spiritual sand.


    In the cultivation world, it was a smaller denomination currency than spiritual stones.


    1 standard Low-Grade Spiritual Stone = 50 units of Spiritual Sand.


    "Hmm, about 20 units of Spiritual Sand, less than half a Low-Grade Spiritual Stone." Lan Chang''an weighed it in his hand and fell into contemtion again. He shouldn''t have expected too much.


    Anyway, he valued the Mu family''s spiritual vein, a ce for cultivation. He could figure out how to earn spiritual stonester.


    "We have spiritual stones now! Thank you, Head of the Family..." The young men who had just embarked on the path of immortality smiled. Spiritual sand could also provide spiritual energy for cultivation.


    "As long as you sincerely join the Mu family and birth offspring, there will be more rewards in the future." The head of the Mu family looked generous. He nced at the distributed spiritual sand, and his lips twitched imperceptibly.


    Receiving the spiritual sand, those young men with cultivation techniques immediately began to cultivate, absorbing the pure spiritual energy from the spiritual sand.


    "The first level of the Origin-Opening Scripture, just starting out?" Lan Chang''an inspected the state of mana in his body. He was the Young Lord of the Angry River Gang, and he embarked on the path of immortality after befriending a destitute wandering cultivator, setting foot on the cultivation path.


    The Origin-Opening Scripture was a basic technique he had obtained at a great cost from the other party. This technique had no attributes but was advantageous in its ability to smoothly switch to other techniques.


    After two lifetimes of cultivation, Lan Chang''an naturally wouldn''t cultivate such amon technique. He closed his eyes, recalling the powerful advanced techniques he possessed in his previous life when he reached the pinnacle of the Core Formationstage.


    "The Ninefold Inferno Technique, a high-grade fire attribute technique, cultivates nineyers of mes, incinerating all things, with formidablebat power among the same level..."


    "The Wind Shadow Scripture, a demonic technique, with peculiar methods, exceptional speed, and decent survival ability..."


    ...


    "No, the goal of this life is to attain the Nascent Soul Realm!" After a long time, he finally made a decision.


    "Looks like I can only choose that ancient technique..."

 Chapter 4: Ancient Trees Evergreen

    Chapter 4: Ancient Trees Evergreen


    The cultivation technique Lan Chang''an chose was called the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique.


    This was from his second life. He obtained this ancient cultivation technique from the cave of the Nascent Soul cultivator Yan Doni. At that time, he was already four or five hundred years old and nearly lost his life in a battle within the cave. The only gain was half of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, which could be cultivated up to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    The characteristic of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique was to temper one''s character, extend lifespan, and cultivate a evesting aura. The downside was that, as a longevity technique, its power was average, and the cultivation progress was slow.


    In this life, he will cultivate this technique. Lan Chang''an only valued one thing about it, and that was longevity!


    "The Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique must be cultivated from the Qi Refining stage, and it must be the primary cultivation technique in order to increase lifespan. Switching midway will render the lifespan extension ineffective!"


    "The effect of lifespan extension is to increase the lifespan by half that of a cultivator from the same realm at each stage."


    "In the Qi Refining stage, it extends lifespan by fifty to sixty years."


    "In the Foundation Establishment stage, it extends lifespan by one hundred and twenty years."


    "Normal Qi Refining stage cultivators have a lifespan of only around one hundred and twenty years.""In the Foundation Establishment stage, it''s two hundred and forty years."


    "In the Core Formation stage, lifespan can reach up to five to six hundred years."


    In other words, if Lan Chang''an could return to the Core Formation stage of his previous life, he would have a lifespan of nine hundred years as a baseline! If he could obtain some longevity treasures, a lifespan of a thousand years wouldn''t be impossible.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t believe that, with nearly a thousand years of lifespan in this life, he couldn''t steadily advance to the Nascent Soul stage by being cautious and progressing step by step. Having experienced two lifetimes, he deeply understood the significance of lifespan to cultivators. In the cultivation world, being able to live until the end is the true victory.


    When cultivators suffer severe injuries in battles or use certain secret techniques, it often affects their lifespan and foundation. In his second life, Lan Chang''an aimed to advance to the Nascent Soul stage, but due to his limited lifespan, he had to vie for various opportunities, experience life-and-death battles, and inevitably damage his foundation along the way. This also affected hister attempts to break through to the Nascent Soul stage, ultimately falling victim to the Heavenly Tribtion.


    "In my second life, my remaining lifespan was not much. I primarily cultivated a fire-based technique and my spiritual roots also leaned towards fire, so it wasn''t suitable to switch to the wood-based Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique.


    In this life, I have a medium-grade spiritual root, with high sensitivity to fire, wood, and metal spiritual energies. It''s just right to cultivate the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique from the Qi Refining stage, gradually increasing my lifespanyer byyer."


    Cultivators'' aptitudes are divided into: Inferior Spiritual Roots, Low-grade Spiritual Roots, Medium-grade Spiritual Roots, High-grade Spiritual Roots, Earth-grade Spiritual Roots, and Heaven-grade Spiritual Roots. In addition, there are innate treasures outside of the spiritual root system, such as the Thunder Spirit Body, Qinglian Body, Dragon''s Roar Body, etc. Innate treasures are extremely rare, and Lan Chang''an doesn''t know much about them.


    The grade of spiritual roots is determined based on their sensitivity to the spiritual energies of heaven and earth. Normal cultivators have a bnce of all five elements. The grade of spiritual roots mainly depends on which type of spiritual energy they are most sensitive to.


    A sensitivity level of ten is the minimum standard for Low-grade Spiritual Roots.


    A sensitivity level of twenty is the minimum standard for Medium-grade Spiritual Roots.


    Lan Chang''an''s sensitivity to fire spiritual energy just passed twenty, reaching the minimum standard for Medium-grade Spiritual Roots.


    Next is his sensitivity to wood spiritual energy, which is seventeen.


    For metal spiritual energy, it''s fifteen.


    As for water and earth spiritual energies, the sensitivity level is less than ten, so they don''t reach the standard. This means that it will be more difficult for him to cultivate techniques of these two attributes in the future.


    ...


    That night, Lan Chang''an held the spiritual sand in his hand and began cultivating the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique.


    After a month of traveling, Lan Chang''an''sst grain of spiritual sand turned into powder.


    "The firstyer of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique!"


    Lan Chang''an circted the fine threads of mana within his body, feeling a vigorous and evergreen aura. Even in the beginning stages, he felt that the vitality of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique was inexhaustible. With an evesting aura, his endurance and mana was strengthened!


    Just this aspect alone made up for the mediocre power of the ancient longevity technique. In battles among cultivators of the same level, magical treasures and divine abilities are the most important. With continuous mana, one can better support magical treasures and divine abilities. Even when retreating, there were significant advantages to having better endurance.


    "However, the cultivation speed of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique is slower than I imagined, even slower than the Origin-Opening Scripture." This was the most obvious drawback that Lan Chang''an felt. Of course, the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique also had hidden surprises.


    That is the ability to conceal one''s aura!


    When concealing one''s breath, the practitioner seems to turn into an ancient tree, making it difficult for others to detect their true cultivation level. Many wood-based techniques have the ability to conceal one''s aura, but nonepare to the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique.


    "Not bad, this aligns perfectly with my philosophy of low-key cultivation and steady operation in this life." Lan Chang''an nodded inwardly. Once he chose this technique, he wouldn''t think about fighting orpeting for opportunities in the future.


    Avoid conflict andpetition!


    In this life, he aimed to steadily reach the Nascent Soul stage and uncover the true secrets of the Nine Seal Steles.


    ...


    The spiritual sand in Lan Chang''an''s hand was depleted. Before reaching the Mu family''s residence, he decided to not bother with cultivating.


    The cultivation effect in the mundane world was too poor, not to mention that the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique was inherently slow to progress. There were still two months of travel ahead. Lan Chang''an didn''t cultivate but instead decided to practice some martial arts from the mundane world.


    In his first life, as a wanderer in the world, he had spent some time in the mundane world, where he had killed several martial arts masters and collected some top-level martial arts manuals.


    His memory was keen, and he knew that mundane martial arts masters posed a threat to Qi Refining stage cultivators. If one wasn''t careful, Qi Refining stage cultivators could end up in trouble.


    In this life, starting from the Qi Refining stage, with weak mana and no magical items or talismans for protection, and with the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique being mediocre in power, there was little to rely on for defense. For the journey ahead, Lan Chang''an wanted to practice martial arts to have more defensive skills.


    This practice brought him a pleasant surprise!


    Mundane martial arts required very little spiritual energy from heaven and earth. Lan Chang''an was already a second-rate martial artist in the mortal world, a martial arts prodigy. With the aid of the Nine Seal Steles, which enhanced his soul far beyond that of an ordinary person, the strength of his consciousness at the Qi Refining stage first stage was close to that of the seventh level.


    A powerful soul was the cornerstone of a cultivator''s wisdom, and practicing martial arts with such a soul felt like crossing a thousand miles in a single day. In less than two months, Lan Chang''an''s martial arts cultivation progressed from second-rate to first-rate, then to surpassing first-rate, and finally advanced to the Martial Innate stage!


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an had just turned eighteen years old.


    "An eighteen-year-old Martial Innate, enough to shake the secr martial world." Lan Chang''an felt the surging innate true qi in his body and the robust physique he had developed. Of course,pared to the mana of cultivators, martial arts true qi was stillcking.


    ...


    "Stay alert! We''ll reach the Mu family''s residence in half a day."


    On the official road, the Mu family''s spiritual horses led the way ahead, with a dozen or so horses following closely behind.


    After two to three months of arduous journey, the new recruits were physically and mentally exhausted.


    Only Lan Chang''an, who cultivated the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, had vigorous energy and strong resilience. During the journey, he also found time to practice martial arts. The head of the Mu family, Mu Maode, saw Lan Chang''an practicing martial arts but didn''t say anything.


    Lan Chang''an was originally a martial artist in the secr world, so practicing martial arts suited his character. As for whether it would affect his cultivation, Mu Maode didn''t care at all. He didn''t really intend to cultivate Lan Chang''an and the others, he only cared about how much spiritual root bloodline they could bring to the family. Whether Lan Chang''an was "neglecting his duty" or not, Mu Maode was even less concerned.


    When the time came, if Lan Chang''an had no hope on the path of immortality, it would be even easier for him to stay in the Mu family and devote more effort to the family in the future.


    ...


    "We''ve arrived! Feiyue Lake!"


    A few dayster, the several Mu family cultivators were revitalized. Lan Chang''an and the others looked into the distance, where the silhouette of ake shimmered in the faint moonlight, giving off a jade and emerald-like luster.


    "That''s the spiritualke controlled by the Mu family. It''s said to produce spiritual fish..."


    A gentle breeze brushed their faces, and they felt a hint of moisture in the air. The spiritual energy of heaven and earth in the surrounding area far exceeded that of the mundane world.


    Feiyue Lake was not far away. They had almost reached the territory controlled by the Mu family. The Mu family cultivators, who had remained vignt all the way, couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief. The task of escorting the immortal seedlings was finallypleted.


    Just as everyone began to rx,


    "Whoosh!"


    A sharp whistle sounded, and a scorching heat swept over them.


    Boom!


    In an instant, dozens ofntern-sized fireballs smashed towards the Mu family''s convoy escorting the immortal seedlings.


    "Enemy attack!"


    Mu Maode''s face changed drastically, and he roared in anger.


    Apart from his spiritual horses, the other horses were scared and neighed in fear, some even attempting to flee in terror. For a moment, chaos ensued, with people and horses tumbling, and dust flying everywhere.


    "Protect the immortal seedlings!"


    Shouting angrily, Mu Maode and four family cultivators each disyed their techniques. Water screens, golden light shields, earthen walls, magic weapons... they tried their best to protect the ten immortal seedlings. However, there were dozens of fireball clusters, and they couldn''t create an airtight defense.


    "Ah!"


    A cry of despair rang out as one schrly-looking youth was hit by antern-sized fireball, his body engulfed in mes. Soon, his body turned ck, and his struggles ceased.


    The other nine youths were trembling with fear, dodging in a panic. Although cultivators had stronger bodies than ordinary people, a few of them were still injured.


    "Oh my god! The world of cultivation is too terrifying..." Li Ergou''s face turned pale, almost peeing himself in fright.


    Lan Chang''an grabbed his arm and swiftly drew a line on the ground, spanning seven to eight meters, carefully avoiding the explosion range of a fireball. Lan Chang''an''s powerful consciousness and martial skills allowed him to remain rtively calm.


    "Ha ha ha! Mu Maode! Want to take these immortal seedlings back? You''ll have to get the consent of my Zheng family first!"


    Seven cultivators flew out from the hills on the left, each holding a magical weapon. The leader was a burly man with dark skin, stepping on a crimson ming broadsword. There was a centipede-like scar on his cheek, extending almost to his neck, giving him a fierce appearance.


    The mana fluctuations on this person''s body clearly reached the ninth level of Qi Refining!


    "Zheng family cultivators! Zheng Wugong!"


    Several Mu family cultivators couldn''t help but exim.


    End of Chapter 4

 Chapter 5: Counterattack in Chaos

    Chapter 5: Counterattack in Chaos


    "Zheng Wugong! How dare you attack the Mu Family in front of the Feiyue Lake!"


    Looking at the ck-skinned man at the ninthyer of Qi Refining, the Mu Family Head''s tone was cold and shocked. He had remained vignt throughout the journey, not wanting to be attacked when he was almost at his doorstep.


    "Kill! Make this battle quick!" Zheng Wugongughed wickedly, forming hand seals. The ming greatsword under his feet skyrocketed to the size of a door panel, and deep within the mes that pulsated on the body of the de, a hint of bizarre ck aura was revealed! The de light and mes cut through the air and aimed straight at the Mu family head.


    At the same time, the six cultivators behind Zheng Wugong also struck out, their cultivation levels were at least midyer of Qi Refining.


    One of them, a beautiful woman at the seventh level of Qi Refining, cast a vine spell, and a green vine drilled out from the ground, wrapping itself around the Mu family head.


    "Daring to be arrogant in front of the Mu family''s doorstep, all of you will be buried here today!"


    The Mu family head''s face was stony as he sacrificed a green g, stabbing it into the ground to create a whirlwind the size of a hut.


    Another talisman was crushed and a golden light shield protected his body.


    Puff! Poof!However, with one against two, the Mu family head quickly fell into a disadvantage, the light of the green g in front of his body dimmed, and the golden light shield shattered under the onught of the fiery de.


    Four Mu family cultivators met the Zheng family''s five mid-stage Qi Refining cultivators.


    Again, the situation was not optimistic for the Mu family with fewer fighting more.


    The intense fight caught the surviving teenagers off guard.


    Many of them turned pale, trembling with fear.


    Having just entered the cultivation world, They had never seen anything like this before.


    "The world of cultivation is too dangerous! I want to go back home and farm...." Li Ergu cried, his voice trembling.


    "You guys quickly go back to the family!" A young man from the Mu family, who was at the fifthyer of Qi Refining, transmitted his voice to the others.


    Lan Chang''an had an impression of this person, he was the one who distributed the spirit stones to the ten youths before and he was named Mu Yunfei.


    "Yes, let''s run away!"


    "We''re just a liability if we stay here."


    The youths reacted quickly and ran in the direction of Fei Yue Lake.


    "I''m afraid it''s not that simple." Lan Chang''an frowned slightly and didn''t rush to escape.


    The Zheng family''s cultivators clearly had the advantage of numbers, but they just pestered the Mu family head and the others, seemingly paying no attention to Lan Chang''an and the others.


    This abnormality caught Lan Chang''an''s attention.


    As expected, the youths had only run a few dozen meters before a sharp whistle sounded.


    Snort!


    A wind de several feet long swept past the fastest running youth.


    Before he could even scream, his head was separated from his body, blood gushing out.


    Hiss!


    The nearest youth came to a screeching halt, his body covered in cold sweat.


    "There''s an ambush!"


    The Mu family head and the four family cultivators, their faces sank.


    Three cultivators descended from the trees on the side of the road.


    Two men and one woman.


    The leader, an ugly woman with a fourth level Qi Refining cultivation, instructed the two young cultivators behind him: "This is your first real battle in the world of cultivation! Follow me to kill the remaining eight immortal seedlings, and don''t be careless..."


    "Don''t worry, Sister Feng!"


    "We have magical weapons in our hands, killing these new entrees is just like ughtering chickens!"


    The two young men were around twenty years old, at the third level of Qi Refining. Their expressions showed more excitement than nervousness.


    Lan Chang''an''s senses were sharp, catching their conversation.


    It was evident that Aunt Feng intended to use these immortal seedlings, like Lan Chang''an and the others, to sharpen the young cultivators in their family.


    The current immortal seedlings were weak in cultivation,cked magical weapons, and were not proficient in spells, they would really not fare well against the ugly woman''s group of three.


    Just two young men at the third level of Qi Refining, with magical weapons in hand, could ughter them.


    "We are running out of time, hurry up and kill!" The ugly woman took the lead without summoning her magical weapons. With a wave of her hand, a wind de intercepted and bisected another immortal seedling girl, leaving only seven immortal seedlings.


    Of those who knew one or two spells, there were only three or four.


    Among them, only three or four knew a couple of spells.


    "Zheng Yan, let''spare who can kill more!" The two young menughed maniacally, like tigers entering a flock of sheep, manoeuvring their magical weapons to attack.


    "Hmph!"


    Lan Chang''an knew that he couldn''t just sit back and wait for death, rubbing a stone-sized fireball out of his fingertips, coldly attacking one of the young men.


    me Flick Technique, one of the less powerful fire spells.


    Before awakening, this was the only attack spell Lan Chang''an had learned from the wanderng taoist.


    In Lan Chang''an''s hands, the power and speed of this spell was more than fifty percent stronger than the original.


    "So fast!"


    The young cultivator was startled, and in his haste, he manipted his magic weapon, the Iron Sword, to return to defend.


    Peng!


    The mes exploded, most of the power was blocked by the magic weapon, but a few mes singed the young cultivator''s forehead.


    "You little brute!"


    The young cultivator was furious, a fireball was not a big threat, but it made him lose face.


    After all, his opponent was only a firstyer Qi Refining immortal seedling.


    The young cultivator manoeuvred his Iron Sword and prepared to unleash a strike in a fit of rage.


    "Yan''er, be careful!"


    A sharp wind cut through the air, and the ugly woman in the distance eximed in rm to warn him.


    However, it was toote!


    Lan Chang''an''s body flickered with afterimages, closing in within the blink of an eye.


    A finger flicked out with a three-foot aura!


    The young cultivator named Zheng Yan''s body froze and looked nkly at the bloody hole in his chest.


    A three-foot qi aura pierced through his heart.


    This was Lan Chang''an''s top martial art, the Sky Piercing Finger. The previous me Flick Technique was just a cover-up.


    "A Martial Innate Master, is not to be underestimated."


    After killing Zheng Yan, Lan Chang''an said casually.


    He picked up the magical weapon, Iron Sword, dropped by the other party.


    Amidst the ugly woman''s roar of shock and anger, he quickly retreated backwards.


    "Zheng Yan..."


    The other young cultivator of the Zheng family was shocked and froze slightly, resulting in his ferocious attacks slowing down.


    The immortal seedlings gained some breathing room.


    Let''s Fight!


    Inspired by Lan Chang''an, several youths who knew spells joined hands and counterattacked the other young Zheng family cultivator at the thirdyer of Qi Refining.


    "Yan''er¡ª"


    The ugly woman at the fourthyer of Qi Refining roared in anger, her eyes filled with blood and her killing intent was bone-chilling as she chased after Lan Chang''an.


    Swoosh swoosh swoosh! Three consecutive wind des sliced through the air.


    Spells that could kill other Immortal Saplings in seconds had no effect on Lan Chang''an.


    His powerful soul allowed him to have a sharp enough reaction to avoid all the spells.


    With the speed of a Martial Innate Master, he wouldn''t be at too much of a disadvantage when put up against a fourthyer of Qi Refining cultivator.


    "Martial Innate?"


    The ugly woman gritted her teeth and quickly calmed down, summoning a small golden copper bell.


    Lan Chang''an''s face changed, and without even thinking, he sted off three me Flicks.


    The ugly woman had a sneer on her face, not dodging or evading, she poured her mana into the small golden-copper bell with all her might, in reponse it began humming, forming a copper-coloured light shield, as if it was an inverted copper bowl.


    Tent! Tent! Peng!


    Three me Flicks struck the copper-coloured light shield and exploded violently.


    The lustre of the small golden-copper bell weakened by about one-third.


    "How is this fire bomb so powerful?"


    The ugly woman couldn''t help but be moved, the power of the three me Flicks sent out by Lan Chang''an was actually a few points stronger than before, approaching the thirdyer of Qi Refining cultivators.


    After a few consecutive rounds of using the me Flick Technique, Lan Chang''an had expended most of his mana, and his Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique was recovering his mana in a continuous stream.


    "Die!" The ugly woman''s eyes showed a cold light.


    The small golden copper bell made a deafening "ng" sound, and not far away, the youngsters with low cultivation level bled from their mouths and noses.


    A circle of golden light ripples swept towards Lan Chang''an at a terrifying speed.


    "A sound wave attack that shocks the soul?"


    Lan Chang''an hesitated slightly before deciding his next actions.


    Heaven-defying Demonic Roar!


    He operated his Innate True Qi and inhaled fiercely, his belly and cheeks bulging like balloons.


    Another martial arts stance.


    Roar!


    Sand and rocks flew, and a baneful sound wave shaped like a tiger''s roar collided with the iing light golden ripples.


    Even though the small golden-copper bell had been weakened by 30%, it was still able engulf and hold off the Heaven-defying Demonic Roar!


    In the end, only one or two percent of the pale golden ripples remained, and Lan Chang''an used his innate true qi to protect his body and his strong physique to push through it.


    His body was shaken back, and his qi and blood churned but he remained standing.


    The little amount of the sound wave foreign power that had seeped into his internal organs was finally dissolved by the Ancient Wood Evergreen Mana.


    "This little thief, how is this possible!"


    The ugly woman was dumbstruck, it was really hard to believe.


    Her small copper bell magical weapon excelled in sonic attacks, with a hint of soul-capturing effect, yet it was effortlessly neutralized by that kid using his spells inbination with martial sonic techniques.


    ......


    After dissolving the fatal blow.


    Lan Chang''an quickly distanced himself and prepared to activate the Blood Ignition Technique.


    This technique could forcibly elevate his cultivation to the peak of the thirdyer of Qi Refining, but the side effects were ratherrge.


    Luckily, the opponent''s magical attack has rtively obvious casting actions and cannot beunched at a high frequency.


    The ugly woman''s killing intent did not diminish, and she still wanted to chase after him.


    "Retreat!"


    At this moment, Zheng Wuwong shouted in the distance with a sense of anxiety.


    Lan Chang''an nced over and found that beside the head of the Mu family, there was an odd beast with a single horn, resembling a mix between a horse and a cow, casting lightning.


    The strength of the unicorn beast wasparable to the eighthyer of Qi Refining, forcing the beautiful woman at the seventhyer of Qi Refining to retreat.


    Afterwards, the unicorn beast''s cold gaze swept towards the ugly woman and scurried her way.


    "Hurry up!"


    The ugly woman''s fat face trembled as she signaling for the thirdyer Qi Refining juniors who were still battling to leave.


    The Zheng family cultivators retreated in haste.


    Lan Chang''an understood that even with the addition of the unicorn alien beast, the Zheng Family cultivators still had the strength to fight.


    But near the Mu family''s residence, the Zheng family cultivators didn''t dare to linger in battle; their strategy was to finish the fight swiftly from the very beginning.


    The sound of thunder rang out!


    A bolt of lightning fell, killing the slowest Zheng family cultivator at the thirdyer of Qi Refining.


    The Zheng family retreated, having lost two cultivators at the thirdyer of Qi Refinement.


    As for the Mu Family, four immortal seedlings died in the melee.


    Who gained and who lost was clear at a nce.


    Lan Chang''an restored his mana and inspected the flying sword artifact in his hand.


    "Bah! So poor..."


    He had initialy thought that it was a low-grade magical weapon, but after inspecting it, he found that it was an inferior magic weapon with even a few defects on the surface.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment.


    He came to the body of the cultivator named Zheng Yan, whom he had killed.


    Carefully searching the body to see if there were any other spoils of war. <ul> <li>Your feedback and ratings are greatly appreciated. If you have a moment, please consider rating this novel on Novelupdates.</li> <li>Should you notice any errors in this chapter, kindly mention them in thements below so I can correct them. Thank you!</li> </ul>

 Chapter 6: Feiyue Manor

    Chapter 6: Feiyue Manor


    The thirdyer Qi Refining cultivator was killed by Lan Chang''an alone.


    He enjoyed the spoils of war, and the Mu family cultivators had no objections.


    "Lan Chang''an, well done!"


    Mu Yunfei wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth, unable to help but look at Lan Chang''an with admiration.


    Several Mu family cultivators were surprised that Lan Chang''an had killed a third-level Qi Refining cultivator.


    But it wasn''t too shocking.


    In addition to being a cultivator, Lan Chang''an was also a martial arts expert, and the target he killed was just a new recruit of the Zheng n who had no realbat experience.


    "To be able to survive under the pursuit of a mid-stage Qi Refinement, his heart and guts are not bad. He is quite a talent."


    The head of the Mu familymented inwardly.These immortal seedlings eliminated by the sects had already proven their limited potential and future achievements.


    Even if there were found someone with hidden talents among them, the Mu family wouldn''t focus on nurturing them because for cultivation families, the most important thing was loyalty, and immortal seedlings were chosen and nurtured from young bloodline heirs to cultivate.


    Lan Chang''an had missed the best age for nurturing loyalty.


    That''s also why sect assessments had age requirements, not just because of potential.


    "Poor bastard." Lan Chang''an finished counting the spoils of war.


    Apart from the inferior magical weapon, he also obtained three and a half spirit stones and a tier-one inferior Wind Walking Talisman.


    He didn''t even have a storage bag.


    "I see, so this is the current situtaion of cultivators at the bottom of the cultivation world."


    Lan Chang''an knew that this harvest was normal. The person he killed was just a new recruit from the Zheng family at the early stage of Qi Refining.


    At this moment, a sound broke through the air.


    Seven or eight Mu family cultivators flew from the direction of Feiyue Lake.


    "Maode, what''s the situation?"


    The leader was a tall figure dressed in ck robes, with eyes like eagles, his body exuding powerful mana fluctuations.


    "Second Elder!" Mu Yunfei and the others respectfully bowed.


    The iing person was the second elder of the Mu family, Mu Renlong.


    At the ninth level of Qi Refining, among the older generation of the Mu family, he had the most potential to advance to the Foundation Establishment stage.


    "Zheng Wugong and his men attacked us. Fortunately, I brought the unicorn beast with me as a trump card, otherwise we would have suffered a big loss..."


    Upon seeing Mu Renlong, the head of the Mu family breathed a sigh of relief.


    As he recounted, he subconsciously nced at Lan Chang''an.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an did not get a lot of credit.


    If it weren''t for him killing one person and dying the ugly woman at the fourth level of Qi Refining for a moment, the Zheng family''s n would have seeded.


    "Are these the batch of immortal seedlings?"


    Mu Renlong''s powerful aura swept over.


    "Greetings Elder."


    The surviving youths felt a sudden pressure, breaking out in cold sweat.


    Lan Chang''an timely showed reverence, bowing slightly.


    Mu Renlong only nced briefly, and the pressure quickly dissipated.


    "Father, you''re not hurt, are you?"


    A melodious and gentle voice sounded.


    It was as if spring water was flowing from the heart, bringing a pleasant mood.


    The surviving youths subconsciously looked over.


    It was a graceful young girl.


    With delicate eyebrows and a snow-likeplexion, she exuded an elegant aura.


    Wearing a long skirt and shoes, her bright eyes and white teeth were pure and elegant.


    The surviving youths were slightly stunned, having never seen such a graceful and beautiful girl before.


    "Xiuyun, why did youe! Father is fine, just exhausted from mana consumption..."


    Mu Maode''s expression was serious, but a hint of affection couldn''t be hidden in his eyes.


    Xiuyun, Mu Xiuyun.


    The youths silently etched the name of the Mu family''s youngdy into their minds.


    Lan Chang''an also took a nce at Mu Xiuyun.


    Despite the special nature of the Nine Seal Stele, although he had experienced two reincarnations, he did not have the mindset of an old monster of hundreds of years of age.


    His original heart remained unchanged, just like at the beginning of his first reincarnation, he can still feel joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness, and appreciate beauty.


    It''s just that he had seen too much, making it difficult for ordinary beauties to move him.


    ...


    Along the vast Feiyue Lake, the group headed towards the Mu family''s residence.


    Mu Maode and Mu Renlong flew ahead.


    "Renlong, the attack from the Zheng family might not just be aimed at intercepting this batch of immortal seedlings. They took such a big risk; perhaps they want to test the Patriarch..."


    Mu Maode''s tone was heavy, with a worried expression.


    "Hmph! This group of jumping clowns! Their patriarch is not lightly injured either. How dare theye to provoke our Mu family in our own base? We must retaliate!"


    Mu Renlong''s face was filled with killing intent.


    The head of the Mu family shook his head, "We must consider this carefully! Our young and middle-aged cultivators are not as good as those from the Zheng family; we must not fall into their trap."


    The Mu family''s territory was built along theke, scattered with viges and manors all around.


    The real core of the territory was the Moonheart Ind in the center of Feiyue Lake.


    Below Moonheart Ind was a second-grade spiritual vein for Foundation Establishment cultivators to cultivate.


    Lan Chang''an and the others, being outsiders, naturally didn''t qualify to enter Moonheart Ind.


    They were ced in the Feiyue Manor on thekeside.


    This manor was the closest to Moonheart Ind, only about twenty miles away.


    There were two first-grade spiritual branches underneath the manor, which were branches of the second grade spiritual vein located on the Moonheart Ind.


    "A superior-grade first-rank formation, the Water Curtain Light Shadow Formation."


    Lan Chang''an could see through theyout at a nce.


    Ayer of transparent ripples, hard to see with the naked eye, enveloped the entire Feiyue Manor, providing concealment, protection, and alert functions.


    "You guys can feel at ease cultivating in the Mu family."


    Before leaving, the head of the Mu family said to the six immortal seedlings, "As long as you fulfill the conditions mentioned before, you will be free to stay and go in the future. If you wish to stay in the Mu family, we will treat you as a part of our own."


    "Yunfei, settle them down."


    After finishing his instructions, Mu Maode, dressed in green, flew towards Moonheart Ind in the heart of the family''s territory.


    "Follow me to get your identity tokens."


    Leading the way, Mu Yunfei introduced the situation of Feiyue Manor.


    The Mu family''s immortal seedlings, as well as middle and lower-level cultivators, practiced here all year round.


    Mu Yunfei was no exception.


    Only those with cultivation above the seventh level of Qi Refining were qualified to apply for residency in Moonheart Ind, where the heart of the second grade spiritual vein was located.


    On the way, they encountered strange gazes from Mu family members.


    Some whispered behind their backs, there was nock of yful, contemptuous gazes.


    Lan Chang''an was mentally prepared.


    After all, they were outsiders, here for¡­marrrying into their family. Moreover, the inclunsiveness of cultivaiton families were inherently inferior to that of sects.


    To Lan Changan''s understanding, if sects were rather multinational corporations, then cultivation familes were akin to family businesses.


    ......


    Two hourster.


    Lan Chang''an and the others received their identity tokens.


    Each person chose a single courtyard residence.


    The residence was only one floor, notrge, with a courtyard upying about half an acre ofnd.


    "With the spiritual energy provided by the first-order spiritual vein, it barely qualifies as a small cultivation site."


    Lan Chang''an settled down, feeling much more rxed.


    So what if he was a parasite? As long as there was a ce to cultivate, wasn''t it great to freeload?


    He chose a more remote area, closer to the shore of Feiyue Lake, but with more humidity.


    Li Ergou deliberately chose a courtyard next to Lan Chang''an''s, only a few tens of meters away.


    "This silly boy."


    Lan Chang''an chose a remote area to cultivate quietly and avoid interacting with others.


    However, Li Ergou was simple-minded, and there was no need to bicker with him.


    The night was uneventful.


    Lan Chang''an practiced the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, and his entire body seemed to transform into a piece of withered wood, blending in with the grass and trees in thepound.


    ...


    The next day, Lan Chang''an''s cultivation was interrupted.


    The Mu family wanted to wee them as "new members" and organised a banquet.


    Everyone had to attend.


    "Wee banquet?"


    Lan Chang''an didn''t need to think to know it wouldn''t be that simple.


    Feiyue Manor, in a spacious hall.


    Six young outsiders, seated at separate tables, were treated to delicacies and fine wines.


    On the carpet in the middle of the hall, dozens of young maidens came in one after another, each with a graceful figure, varying from slim to plump.


    For a while, the hall was overflowing with fragrance.


    Each girl was beautiful and elegant, without the shy makeup of themon folk.


    Some were gentle and graceful, smiling without showing their teeth.


    Some had a cold temperament, dressed in white like snow.


    Or graceful and charming, with a pure and elegant temperament.


    There were also those with voluptuous figures, wearing gauzy veils, enchanting and soul-stirring...


    "These are the outstanding mortal girls from my Mu family. Each one of them has been nurtured by secr great schrs, knowledgeable and polite, proficient in zither, chess, calligraphy, and painting..."


    "You can rest assured that they are all pure!"


    A steward of the Mu family sat at the head of the table, smiling.


    "Today, they are here to wee you and apany you. If you encounter someone you like, I''ll congratte you in advance."


    Without the steward''s instructions, these beautiful and elegant Mu girls went to each separate table.


    They served tea and poured wine, recited poems and yed music.


    With fragrant mouths, they yed the zither and blew the flute.


    Most of these Mu girls were the descendants of cultivators in the Mu family. They were not servants within the n and had some status and autonomy.


    They came voluntarily, choosing the disciples they favored among the batch.


    Lan Chang''an, with his medium-grade spiritual root and exceptional looks, attracted several beautiful Mu girls.


    Lan Chang''an remained expressionless, waving off all the approaching beauties.


    Drinking his wine alone, no one approached him again.


    It was Li Ergou who, with several Mu girls apanying him, blushed and nervously touched the waist of a wonderful young girl, attracting a burst ofughter and chatter.


    ...


    An hourter, the wee banquet ended.


    Li Ergou fell in love with a fair-skinned young girl of Mu family.


    "Big brother Lan, how about the bride I chose?"


    Li Ergou came over, unable to hide the excitement on his face.


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself, why are you asking for my opinion when picking a bride?


    "What do you like about her?"


    The person Li Ergou chose could only be considered middle to low ss in terms of looks and temperament amongst these beautiful young women.


    "She looks like Cuihua!"


    "She''s the vige flower in our vige! Morever, she''s even more beautiful than Cuihua..."


    Li Ergou was very satisfied.


    "Not bad." Lan Chang''an said after a moment of silence, nodding slightly.


    He then asked, "When will you get married?"


    Li Ergou rubbed his hands nervously, "The steward said if we''re in a hurry, we can hold the banquet and enter the bridal chamber tonight."


    Lan Chang''an: "....."

 Chapter 7: Two Years

    Chapter 7: Two Years


    Three dayster, Li Ergou got married.


    There was no such thing as three hires and six gifts, just a simple ceremony.


    On the wedding day, only a few rtives from the bride''s side attended.


    The groom''s side had even fewer people.


    Li Ergou only had one friend, Lan Chang''an, to help usher him in.


    The other five immortal seedlings came along to help make up the numbers.


    As a gesture of goodwill, Lan Chang''an and a few immortal seedlings also gave gifts.


    These immortal seedlings were so poor that they could only afford some mundane gold and silver, or small personal items.


    Lan Chang''an gave a handwritten booklet.It was titled Secrets of Locking the Dragon.


    It was not a cultivation technique, but a bedroom secret technique.


    Apart from enhancing that aspect of ability, it could also lock up more Yang Qi, preventing it from being depleted by beauties.


    "I probably won''t need Secrets of Locking the Dragon in this life."


    Lan Chang''an was certain of it in his heart.


    In his previous life, born into a cultivation family, he had no choice but to have multiple wives and concubines, leaving behind many offspring.


    In the early stages, the support from a cultivation family was indeed significant.


    But at a certain level, the family and offspring would be a burden.


    For the sake of his family and children, his energy was stretched thin, and at certain times he had no choice but to fall into a whirlpool of conflicts to fight for benefits.


    ...


    Li Ergou made swift moves.


    Two months after getting married, his wife Mu Qing became pregnant.


    When the head of the family, Mu Maode, learnt of this, he immediately offered them a generous reward.


    They were given a low-grade magical weapon, a set of magic robes, thirty low-grade spirit stones, two bottles of qi nourishing pills, and sixty pounds of spiritual rice.


    .....


    Such generous rewards made other immortal seedlings envious.


    Even Lan Chang''an was a bit moved.


    He currently only had three and a half spirit stones and an inferior-grade magical weapon.


    "Family head Mu is setting an example, wanting us to follow suit."


    Lan Chang''an''s heart was like a clear mirror.


    The Mu family head gave his word that the first to give birth to a heir and the first to give birth to a heir with spiritual roots would receive additional rewards.


    At once, the immortal seedlings who were still hesitant couldn''t sit still and scrambled to take wives and have children!


    Only, the rewards for thetter were less than a third of Li Ergou''s.


    After Li Ergou made a visit to another family, Lan Chang''an got to learn that Li Ergou''s wife was the granddaughter of the family head, Mu Maode.


    So, the generous rewards for being the first to have a child were due to Li Ergou''s connection to Mu Maode''s family.


    "This kid, a simple man with a simple blessing."


    Lan Chang''anmented in his heart.


    The family head must have quite a few children and grandchildren, so a granddaughter didn''t carry much weight.


    Lan Changan surmised that because Li Ergou had no background, no education, and a pure heart, this kind of person was easy to take in.


    The Mu family is considering taking this son-inw and really absorbing him as a part of the family.


    As for Lan Chang''an...


    With a firm mind and experience in the martial world, it was difficult to truly bring him under control.


    Even if he was as active in having babies as Li Ergou, he wouldn''t receive any special care.


    ...


    A year and a halfter.


    All the immortal seedlings who came to the Mu family all married and had children, integrating into the Mu family of Feiyue Lake as nsmen with foreign surnames.


    Except for Lan Chang''an.


    So far, he hadn''t budged, and had been immersed in closed-door cultivation.


    Although he rarely went out, the young women of the Mu family knew about his rumours.


    Some people imed that Lan Chang''an possessed a medium-grade spiritual root. He held himself in high regard, refusing to marry into the family and looking down upon the mortal women of the Mu family.


    In the courtyard, inside the practice room.


    Dressed in white robes, Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, practicing the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique.


    He was like a wooden sculpture, seemingly silent on the outside, but within his body flowed continuous mana rich in vitality.


    Through the wood spiritual root, he operated the cultivation method, pulling in the spiritual qi from the outside world and eventually forming his own evergreen mana.


    The difference between heaven and earth aura and mana was:


    Heaven and earth aura is wild.


    It is chaotic and uncontroble, and cannot be directly used by low-level cultivators.


    Mana, on the other hand, is the cultivator''s ability to "domesticate" the outside world''s aura into a form that belongs to him or her through the absorption of the spiritual root and the transformation of the cultivation method.


    "I never thought that the progress of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique would be so ''steady''."


    Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, his face unsightly.


    It took him a year and a half to cultivate to the peak of the firstyer.


    Having spent hisst three and a half spirit stones, his cultivation could barely reach the peak of the firstyer of Qi Refining.


    A month earlier, Li Ergou had already advanced to the second level of Qi Refining.


    One of the other four immortal seedlings had also made a breakthrough..


    Instead, Lan Chang''an, the middle-grade spirit root, had became a hangman


    There were three reasons for this result:


    The first point was that the cultivation speed of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique was particrly t, and Lan Chang''an''s cultivation insights from his first two reincarnations didn''t help increase it too much.


    Quite literally, it cancelled out Lan Chang''an''s advantage of re-cultivation.


    Second, he used his wood spiritual root to cultivate this technique, with a sensing degree of only seventeen, equivalent to a low-grade spiritual root.


    Lan Chang''an''s medium-grade spiritual root was a fire spiritual root, with a sensibility of twenty, which was left unutilized.


    Third, because Lan Chang''an refused to marry and have children with Mu family women, the resources provided by the Mu family for his cultivation were kept at a minimum.


    "The only resources provided are the spiritual vein cultivation site, the most basic cultivation technique, and three catties of spiritual rice per month."


    Lan Chang''an sighed.


    This was obviously Mu Maode''s tactic, in order to force him into submission.


    On the contrary, Li Ergou was provided with elixirs to refine his cultivation every month, and was issued a whopping thirty jin of spirit rice.


    In the immortal cultivation path, among "wealth,panionship, techniques, andnd", "wealth"ranked first.


    Without wealth, even if one had a top-grade spiritual root, one would never be able to advance to the Foundation Establishment Realm in one''s lifetime.


    Facing this "unfair" treatment, Lan Chang''an did not hold any grudges.


    As the old saying goes, one meal feeds a benefactor, but a thousand meals feed an enemy.


    Lan Chang''an hadn''t forgotten his original intention; he came to freeload off the Mu family''s spiritual vein.


    Whether it was voluntary or not, the Mu family had at least shown him favour.


    ...


    Another half a year passed.


    It had been two years since Lan Chang''an hade to the Mu family.


    On this day, inside the practice room.


    "Secondyer of Qi Refining."


    The fluctuations of mana on Lan Chang''an''s body rose by a notch.


    A trace of the mysterious aura of years flowing by briefly shed.


    "This aura..."


    For the first time in this life, Lan Chang''an''s face revealed shock!


    A year ago, he had also felt this peculiar feeling.


    It was a profound implication of the cycle of the ancient trees throughout the four seasons, which he thought was a characteristic of the technique.


    This time, after crossing the second year, during the moment of advancement, he once again captured this mysterious aura.


    If it weren''t for his keen soul perception, he might have missed it.


    "Could it be that the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique absorbs the aura of time during cultivation?"


    "If that''s the case, then the slow progress of cultivation can bepletely understood..."


    Lan Chang''an suppressed the shock and excitement in his heart.


    The rotation of the years, this was the rule of the heavens and earth.


    It was said that some ancient true spirits or mythical beasts from antiquity fed on the passage of time.


    That level of power was beyond reach, even for those in the Nascent Soul Realm.


    "No wonder the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique can prolong life..."


    Lan Chang''an realized that this ancient longevity technique was definitely not simple.


    If there was a opportunity, he must get his hands on the rest of the Evergreen Technique!


    In his previous life, in the cave of the Nascent Soul Cultivatior Yan Doni, he fought over it and obtained half of the "Ancient Evergreen Technique" during the chaos.


    The other half was obtained by a great master of a major sect.


    Information about that person could be found in the depth of his memories.


    however, Lan Chang''an couldn''t be sure whether these two lives were in the same side of the immortal cultivation world.


    ...


    After advancing to the secondyer of Qi Refining, Lan Chang''an came out to rx.


    After all, the Evergreen Technique needed to draw on the Qi of the ages, so there was no rush.


    No wonder this technique could cultivate one''s temperament.


    He first went to the neighboring courtyard.


    Li Ergou was ying with his children. Seeing Lan Chang''an approaching, he was very happy.


    "Come, call Big Brother Lan Uncle Lan."


    Li Ergou held his eldest son, Mu Yifan.


    Unfortunately, the child was only a year old and not very smart, making babbling noises.


    The reason he was called the eldest son was that a month ago, Li Ergou''s wife Mu Qing became pregnant again.


    It was important to know that it''s not easy for cultivators to conceive, and the higher the cultivation level, the more difficult it bes.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that his gift of the Secrets of Locking the Dragon might have provided a helping hand.


    Lan Chang''an gently touched the child''s forehead, finding him unusually quiet and obedient.


    A child''s cultivation aptitude would only be revealed when he or she was six years old or older, and it was not visible at the moment..


    "Hmm, it''s strange. My Fan''er is very shy." Li Ergou said yfully.


    Usually, the child was handed over to the Mu family''s nanny to take care of because Li Ergou, as a father, didn''t have much time to spend with him due to his cultivation, thus the child was sometimes shy when meeting Li Ergou.


    "Huh! Big Brother Lan has already advanced to the secondyer of Qi Refining, congrattions."


    Li Ergou congratted.


    "Not as fast as you."


    Lan Chang''an''s mood was slightlyplicated.


    Both of them started at the same starting line.


    In his third reincarnation, his cultivation speed was actuallygging behind a peasant boy.


    Li Ergou was even two years younger than him.


    "Big Brother Lan, I think there''s nothing wrong with marrying into the Mu family. Why don''t you consider it?"


    Li Ergou didn''t know how prosperous his current life was.


    Using the Mu family''s spiritual vein, enjoying the spiritual rice, pills, and techniques provided by the Mu family. Having a child without having to raise it yourself, there were also rewards.


    "People have different aspirations. You don''t have to persuade me."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head, refusing Li Ergou''s offer of pills and spirit stones once again.


    "Oh right! Big Brother Lan, I received a letter from Lin Yi a few days ago."


    Li Ergou''s face straightened as he handed the child over to the nanny.


    "Lin Yi?"


    Lan Chang''an thought of the once somewhat arrogant young marquis.


    "Does big brother still remember the agreement we made on the way to the sect''s assessment back then?"


    "We, the immortal seedlings from Hengshui Prefecture, made a pact: regardless of whether we could enter the immortal sect in the future, we would meet again at the Immortal Gathering Building in Hengshui Prefecture after three years."


    "The agreement back then? It''s hard to believe whether the disciples who entered the sect would take it seriously!"


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t optimistic.


    He couldn''t help but recall Zhao Siyao, the graceful and beautiful youngdy of the house.


    Entering the sect was already put them on a different level.


    "Haha! Big Brother Lan is being too harsh. Lin Yi said in his letter that Zhao Siyao promised to attend the gathering and hasn''t broken her promise."


    Li Ergou grinned widely, very pleased.

 Chapter 8: Trade

    Chapter 8: Trade


    After experiencing two lifetimes of cultivation, Lan Chang''an had seen more than his share of selfishness andck of integrity among cultivators. They tended to be quite pragmatic.


    However, to his surprise, the casual agreement made two years ago had drawn the willingness of Zhao Siyao, who had already entered the sect, to honor it.


    "Hmm, there''s still a year left."


    Lan Chang''an pondered. Considering his current identity as the young master of the Angry Bird Gang, spending two or three years seeking enlightenment in cultivation, it was time to return to the secr world and take a break.


    Making connections with people from the sect would always be beneficial.


    In the cultivation world, background was crucial.


    The sects are at the upper echelons of the cultivation world and have more channels, so they can be one step ahead of the others when ites to news about certain major changes in the world.


    ...


    After bidding farewell to Li Ergou, Lan Chang''an headed to the Mu family''s Book Depository Pavilion.In the library, Lan Chang''an could only peruse basic cultivation books.


    Luckily, he wasn''t here to find any secret cultivation techniques.


    Even if it was the Mu family''s top cultivation techniques, they might not be able to catch Lan Chang''an''s eyes.


    He was here to look up books on geography.


    From his memories of this life, he had confirmed that he was in a different Immortal Cultivationnd from both of his previous lives.


    Half an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an emerged from the library, his expression pensive.


    "The Great Qing cultivation Realm... Liang Kingdom... Chen Kingdom... F¨¥ng Kingdom..."


    In the Book Depository Pavilion, there was very little information beyond the geographical scope of the Liang Kingdom.


    This cultivation realm was called "Great Qing."


    It was vast, with hundreds of countries.


    Not every country had spiritual veins above the third grade; some smaller countriesgged behind in cultivation civilization, with the Core Formation Realm as their limit.


    The medium andrge kingdoms all had fourth-grade spirit veins, suitable for cultivation up to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    The Liang Kingdom where he resided could only be considered a medium-sized country and the strongest force called the Departing me Pce, had a True Monarch in the Nascent Soul Realm presiding over it, they''re the master of this region.


    Below the Departing me Pce were the four major sects, each with several Core Formation Realm cultivators.


    The Jin Yun Valley was one of them.


    Following closely were the seven great cultivation families, the strongest families in the Liang Kingdom.


    Each of the seven great families had a long heritage, with at least one Fake-Dan Immortal and multiple Foundation Establishment Realm cultivators.


    Compared to the Mu family at Feiyue Lake, they were ten times stronger, if not more.


    "One Pce, Four Sects, Seven Families..."


    Lan Chang''an roughly outlined the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world''s structure.


    The Mu family he belonged to was considered a power at the bottom of the cultivation world, only slightly stronger than wandering cultivators and Qi-Refining families.


    "Is this Great Qing realm in the Heaven Honoured Continent like in my previous life?"


    Lan Chang''an couldn''t draw a conclusion; he feared he would need to reach a higher realm to confirm.


    In his previous life, he had cultivated to the Core Formation Realm before he realized that the vast realm he was in, called Great Kun, was only a remote part of the Heaven Honoured Continent.


    It was rumored that in the truly prosperous Earth Realm of the Heaven Honoured Continent, there existed a fifth-grade spirit vein, which theoretically had the chance to give birth to a Deity Transformation Realm cultivator.


    ...


    A few monthster...


    Lan Chang''an opened his eyes from meditation, The Evergreen mana in his body progressing smoothly.


    "Without the aid of elixirs, at this rate, I''m afraid it will take three or four years for me to advance to the thirdyer of Qi-Refining."


    This was without counting the bottlenecks, after all Lan Chang''an being a re-cultivator, he could ignore bottlenecks during the Qi-Refining stage.


    The Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique needed to draw on the Qi of the ages and had the effect of prolonging one''s life, so Lan Chang''an could understand the slow pace of progress.


    "The Immortal Cultivation World is ever-changing, and things are unpredictable. With my cultivation speed being so slow, I need acquire some other protective measures."


    Lan Chang''an understood the importance of being prepared for the worst.


    No matter how calm and stable his cultivation seemed now, the Mu family could face a catastrophe at any moment.


    He had experienced such a thing in his previous life.


    In terms of protective measures, Lan Chang''an, as a Martial Innate, could enhance his survivability.


    "Martial Innate masters need to get in close range to threaten Qi-Refining cultivators; this is a limitation."


    Lan Chang''an contemted.


    "Perhaps I should try my hand in some concealed weapons?"


    Thest time he killed a cultivator from the Zheng family, he used the Sky Piercing Finger technique, which could bebined with concealed weapons.


    With hidden weaponsced with poisonous substances from the cultivation world, he might achieve unexpected results.


    Of course, true protective measures still relied on the methods of the Immortal Dao.


    "It''s time to go back to the old ways of the previous two lives." Lan Chang''an chuckled.


    Two years ago, when he just reached the secondyer of Qi Refining, his spiritual power was too weak. Now, at the secondyer of Qi Refining, he could start implementing his ns.


    In his first life, he was a talisman master, skilled in the craft.


    In his second life, after hundreds of years practice, he became a third-rank talisman master.


    Talismans were an excellent choice for both protection and earning spirit stones.


    After confirming his n, Lan Chang''an began preparing materials and tools for drawing talismans.


    Originally, he thought buying materials might be troublesome.


    Soon after, he learned from Li Ergou that the Feiyue Manor held a small trade within the family in the middle of every month.


    The trading event took ce at the September Building of the Manor.


    ...


    Seven dayster, during the full moon.


    Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou arrived at the September Building.


    Built over a stream, the pavilion was quaint and elegant, with water pavilions and terraces, tranquil and refined.


    Various stalls were set up on the pavilions, with Mu family members disying their goods on stone tables.


    The crowd wasn''trge, with only a few dozen people manning the stalls. Some of them weren''t even cultivators but rather descendants of cultivators within the family.


    After all, there were only a hundred or so cultivators in the entire Mu family.


    Lan Chang''an browsed through several pavilions.


    The stallholders not only sold items but also sought to buy various cultivation resources.


    At two or three stalls, there were offerings of talisman paper, cinnabar, and talisman brushes for sale.


    However, the quality was lower than Lan Chang''an had anticipated, and they were scattered, with no single stall offering aplete set of what he needed.


    "I should sell these first."


    Lan Chang''an found an empty pavilion and put up for sale the inferior-grade magical weapon and Wind Walking talisman from hisst battle.


    "Big Brother Lan, why are you selling magical weapons? If the spirit stones aren''t enough, I will lend you some."


    Li Ergou''s expression changed.


    "No need, I have my own ns."


    A inferior-grade magical weapon wasn''t of much use to Lan Chang''an.


    He''d rather turn it into spirit stones and use them to enhance his protective measures through talisman crafting.


    Lan Chang''an was considered a new face.


    Some Mu family members were curious and walked to his stall to have a look, but most of them were not interested and asked questions casually..


    After waiting for a long while, a sincere buyer finally came.


    "How much for this iron sword?" The one who spoke was a dry old man, over the age of a man in his prime, with a cultivation of the thirdyer of Qi-Refining.


    Lan Chang''an quoted, "Forty low-grade spirit stones."


    "Too expensive! An ordinary low-grade magic weapon sells for only fifty or sixty pieces of low-grade spirit stones. This shoddy item of yours can easily get damaged if used in a prolonged fight..."


    The old man furrowed his brows, trying to negotiate.


    Lan Chang''an smiled. didn''t he just want to cut the price?


    "You are talking about the worst inferior magic weapon, this magic weapon of mine is slightly repaired, much better than that kind."


    "If you buy it in good faith, I will offer a single price of thirty-five low-grade spirit stones, with a low-grade wind travelling talisman attached."


    Lan Chang''an was toozy to pull more crap and directly gave a price that was slightly lower than the market value.


    The old man''s eyes flickered, attempting to further negotiate the price.


    Lan Chang''an ignored him.


    "Alright, let''s make the deal at this price."


    The old man smiled back.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an sold his spoils from the previous battle for thirty-five low-grade spirit stones.


    With the spirit stones in hand, Lan Chang''an was ready to buy a set of talisman drawing materials.


    "Big Brother Lan wants to buy talisman painting materials? How about looking for Big Miss Mu Xiuyun?"


    Li Ergou suggested, ncing at a nearby pavilion.


    "You mean, the Mu family''s youngdy?"


    Lan Chang''an followed his gaze.


    On that pavilion, two beautiful women had just set up their stall.


    One of them was Mu Xiuyun.


    Under the bright moonlight, the young girl''s skin was as bright as snow, and she was as gentle as jade; her skirt was as tight as her shoes, and the train of her green hair moved with the wind, as if it were a light clouding out of the mountain.


    "Missy is a first-rank talisman master."


    Li Ergou dared not look too much, hiding his amazement.


    "A first-rank talisman master? She should be able to provide everything I require."


    Lan Chang''an remainedposed and walked towards Mu Xiuyun''s stall.


    Li Ergou followed closely behind, his heartbeat elerating, secretly thinking, "Worthy of being a big brother, facing the big miss without the slightest big of timidity."


    Seeing the two men approaching, Mu Xiuyun nodded slightly, indicating they could look around for themselves.


    On the contrary, beside her, a red-skirted young girl was surprised and sized up the two of them.


    Lan Chang''an did not move as he scanned the stall and secretly nodded his head.


    Mu Xiu-yun was indeed a fine first-rank talisman master. She had all the materials he needed for drawing talismans, and the quality was good, meeting hisplete set of needs.


    "How much for this talisman brush?"


    Lan Chang''an picked up an ink-blue-colored talisman pen.


    "This is a inferior-grade magical tool, the Green Ink Talisman Brush, priced at seventy low-grade spirit stones." A young girl''s voice as clear and pleasant as a spring came out.


    "What about this one?"


    Lan Chang''an changed to another brush, ck and slightly yellowed, with some mottling.


    "This one... It''s a severely worn-out ck Brush Talisman Brush, selling for twenty low-grade spirit stones. I need to mention that it can draw up to a hundred more talismans at most before bingpletely unusable."


    Looking at this brush, Mu Xiuyun hesitated slightly, her eyes showing a trace of reluctance.


    "I''ll take it."


    Lan Chang''an could see that the base of this talisman pen was not bad, and the other party''s offer was reasonable.


    "Also, a small bottle of Blood Ink Vermilion Sand and twenty sheets of first-rank talisman paper."


    "What''s the price for first-rank fine talisman paper? Oh, give me three sheets."


    Lan Chang''an bought all the materials he needed for drawing talismans in one go.


    Due to limited funds, he purchased fewer quantities of each item.


    "I will honestly charge you 40 low-grade spirit stones for everything."


    Mu Xiuyun smiled pleasantly.


    "Huh! I only have thirty-five low-grade spirit stones? How about making the deal at this price?"


    Lan Chang''an brazenly proposed.


    Actually, Mu Xiuyun''s offer was considered fair.


    He tried to make a small cut.


    If it didn''t work, he could always return a few talisman papers with nothing to lose.


    Upon hearing this, the red-skirted girl snorted:


    "Kid! I am afraid that you don''t know the rules, Sister Xiuyun''s stall doesn''t bargain!"


    The girl was quite pretty, fair-skinned with long legs, a delicate melon-seed face, willow-leaf eyebrows, and almond-shaped eyes.


    Li Ergou had thin skin and felt embarrassed. He said awkwardly, "Big Brother Lan, forget it! I''ll lend you a few spirit stones..."


    "You, are you Lan Chang''an?"


    Suddenly, Mu Xiuyun''s gaze turned, fixing on Lan Chang''an, her expression inscrutable.

 Chapter 9: Crafting Unique Talisman

    Chapter 9: Crafting Unique Talisman


    "Yes, that''s correct."


    Lan Chang''an knew that he was a topic of discussion among the young women of the Mu family.


    "You know how to draw talismans?"


    "I have a basic understanding and n to practice."


    Lan Chang''an replied modestly.


    However, Mu Xiuyun''s brows furrowed, displeased: "As a beginner, you shouldn''t aim too high and buy premium talisman paper."


    Premium talisman paper is suitable for crafting first-rank superior talismans, which would be a waste for beginners.


    One sheet of premium talisman paper could be equivalent to several sheets of ordinary talisman paper.


    "Miss Mu is correct! I''ll buy three sheets of premium paper for collection and as encouragement for myself."Lan Chang''an remained calm and didn''t argue.


    Mu Xiuyun nced at the white-clothed young man who was as indifferent as water and said no more, handing over the entire set of talisman drawing materials.


    It seemed like she agreed to Lan Chang''an''s bargaining.


    "Many thanks, Missy."


    Lan Chang''an saw Mu Xiuyun haughtily withdraw her jade hand, so he ced the spirit stones on the stone table.


    She watched the two walk away.


    The girl in the red dress wrinkled her nose suspiciously, looking at Mu Xiuyun.


    "Sister Xiuyun, you actually made an exception to give that brat a discount?"


    "I heard from Yunfei that this person was in danger under the interception of the Zheng family cultivators, and against all odds, he cut down the third level of Qi Practising, allowing the family to avoid losses."


    Mu Xiuyun put away the spirit stones in a natural tone.


    "In that case, he is considered to have made a merit, the family will naturally......"


    The red-skirted girl pondered, her voice stopping abruptly.


    If it were a young talent from the Mu family disying such performance, there would naturally bemendations within the n.


    "Yinn, what do you think of Lan Chang''an?"


    Mu Xiuyun pursed her lips.


    "Not bad looking, with a thicker skin. Perhaps, there''s also some self-esteem?"


    Mu Yinn thought for a moment, giving her first impression.


    There were some rumors within the n that Lan Chang''an didn''t fancy the women arranged for him by the Mu family.


    "Yinn, if the family decides to match you with Lan Chang''an, would you be willing?"


    Mu Xiuyun smiled, her eyes containing a hint of amusement.


    "What! me marrying him? That''s impossible..."


    Mu Yinn''s cheeks reddened, shaking her head vigorously.


    "Sister Xiuyun, the family wouldn''t think of matching me with this brat, would they?"


    She reacted furiously.


    Mu Xiuyun didn''t deny it, murmuring: "Lan Chang''an has a medium-grade spiritual root, and marrying a mortal woman would indeed be a bit of a waste. Father is considering whether to find him a woman with a spiritual root."


    "So, you''ve set your sights on this lovely little sister? No way! I don''t fancy him."


    Mu Yinn huffed and snorted lightly.


    "You don''t fancy him?"


    "Of course not! Isn''t Lan Chang''an around twenty years old? He''s just reached the secondyer of Qi Refining! Even though he''s said to have a medium-grade spiritual root, he''s still inferior to some people low-grade spiritual roots within the family."


    Mu Yinn raised her delicate chin, speaking frankly.


    In contrast, although she had a low-grade spiritual root, she had already reached the peak of the secondyer of Qi Refining at the age of sixteen and would soon attempt to break through.


    In the cultivation world, unless one possessed top-tier aptitude like Earth-grade Spiritual Root or Heaven-grade Spiritual Root, one''s cultivation level and age were more indicative of one''s prospects.


    ...


    In the courtyard, in the underground chamber.


    Lan Chang''an took out aplete set of talisman brushes, vermillion sand, and talisman paper.


    After mixing the vermillion, heid out the talisman paper.


    Closing his eyes for a moment, the experiences and insights of talisman crafting from his previous two lives flooded into his mind.


    Suddenly, his eyes turned sharp like cold electricity, his breath held.


    Grabbing the talisman brush, he flowed like clouds and water.


    The Evergreen mana subtly swirled around the tip of the brush, seamlessly sketching on the talisman paper in a single stroke.


    "Water Purification Talisman."


    The pale blue runes on the talisman radiated a gentle light, and the spiritual ink quickly solidified.


    The Water Purification Talisman was an entry-level basic talisman, not even considered a first-rank talisman.


    "It feels a bit dry."


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t entirely satisfied and proceeded to draw a Fire Ignition Talisman and a Dwelling Protection Talisman.


    In the mortal world, knowing a few basic talismans could make one appear as a so-called master of the way.


    After drawing three basic talismans.


    Lan Chang''an found his rhythm, and the feeling in his hand became smoother.


    Next, he began to draw first-rank talismans corresponding to the Qi-Refining stage.


    First, he drew two Frostwind Talismans.


    Frostwind Talisman: First-rank medium-grade, with a certain range of damage and a decent slowing effect.


    Among first-rank talismans, it was rare to have mass damage.


    This talisman wasn''tmonly seen because of its limited power, high difficulty in crafting, and low sess rate, so few talisman masters practiced it.


    Phew!


    After drawing two first-rank medium-grade talismans, Lan Chang''an''s mana was depleted by more than half.


    Limited by cultivation level, each talisman master could only draw a limited number of talismans per day.


    To draw talismans, not only did it consume mana, it was also extremely draining on the spirit. It wasn''t as simple as replenishing with spirit stones and continuing like a perpetual motion machine.


    Luckily, Lan Chang''an had a long lifespan.


    After recovering half an incense stick worth of time.


    He then drew two Water Curtain Talismans which were defensive first-rank medium-grade talismans.


    Considering that during the Qi-Refining stage, mostmonly used spells were of the fire element and had great power, he chose to craft this talisman.


    Lastly, he drew three Wind Speed Talismans, also first-rank medium-grade talismans.


    As a third-rank talisman master, Lan Chang''an''s crafted talismans were of high quality and had greater power than others of the same rank.


    Frostwind Talisman, Water Curtain Talisman, Wind Speed Talisman.


    A total of seven first-rank talismans were crafted.


    Lan Chang''an''s energy waspletely drained, especially his mental power.


    This was only due to his powerful soul and Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique''s vigorous mana that he was able to draw that many talismans in one sitting. If it was any other early stage Qi-Refining cultivator, it would be difficult to draw a single mid-grade talisman.


    ...


    After a night''s rest, he was full of energy the next day.


    Lan Chang''an still had ten first-rank talisman papers and three first-rank premium talisman papers.


    The former he nned to keep to earn spirit stones and observe the market.


    As for the three premium talisman papers, he intended to craft a powerful superior-grade talisman.


    This talisman was called the Golden de Talisman.


    It was a unique talisman that he had improved in his previous two lives.


    "The Golden de Talisman has strong prating power, almost equivalent to a superior-grade magical weapon. Ordinaryte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators would find it difficult to resist it. However, the requirements for refining this talisman is quiet high."


    Lan Chang''an''s expression turned solemn.


    Normally, without a cultivation level of at least the seventh level of Qi-Refining, it would be impossible to craft the Golden de Talisman, and the sess rate would be very low.


    Just in case there was ack of mana, he ate a bowl of spirit rice before getting to crafting.


    He concentrated deeply.


    The tip of the brush wandered on the premium talisman paper for a few minutes. Gradually, the brush strokes we no longer as smooth and became a bit arduous...


    Beads of sweat seeped out from Lan Chang''an''s forehead and his face turned pale.


    Sizzle!


    The golden patterns on the talisman paper flickered a few times, and a puff of green smoke rose.


    "Too bad, just a little short." Lan Chang''an felt somewhat regretful.


    In his previous life, even when he reached the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, the sess rate of the Golden de Talisman wasn''t very high.


    If he had seeded, this talisman would have be one of his trump cards.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t lose heart.


    After three days of cultivation, he bathed and changed his clothes.


    He attempted once again.


    This time, he finally seeded in drawing the Golden de Talisman, with a bit of luck involved.


    After another three days.


    The third attempt to craft the Golden de Talisman ended in failure.


    The three premium talisman papers were all used up.


    "With my current cultivation level, I only have a sess rate of about twenty to thirty percent when crafting the Golden de Talisman."


    Lan Chang''an could ept the final result.


    If it weren''t for the special attributes of the Evergreen Technique and his equivalent spiritual perception to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, Lan Chang''an wouldn''t have even thought of attempting it.


    ...


    In the next half year.


    Lan Chang''an focused on cultivation, and the longevity effects of the Evergreen Technique had begun to show.


    In the training room, Lan Chang''an opened his pitch-ck pupils.


    A trace of the subtle aura of the changing of the ages flickered as he circted his cultivation technique.


    Whether it was an illusion or not was unknown.


    He felt that the mediocre power of the Evergreen Technique seemed to have strengthened slightly, although It was very subtle.


    If it weren''t for him being a reincarnator with lifetimes of cultivation and his soul surpassing the norm, it would be difficult to notice.


    "Could it be that the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique can increase in power as time passes?"


    "The longer you live, the stronger your mana?"


    Lan Chang''an produced an absurd thought.


    ''I''m afraid that this guess would take a long time to verify.''


    After all, that hint of enhanced mana was so negligible it could be ignored and could be considered a normal fluctuation.


    "Big brother Lan."


    Outside the courtyard, Li Ergou brought two spirited spiritual horses.


    It had nearly been three years since he came to the Mu family.


    Li Ergou''s face was plump, with a greasy sheen, and his body had grown by more than half a foot.


    His physique had be robust, d in dark blue Daoist robes, his eyes bright and sharp, such that people dare not look down upon him.


    Lan Chang''an, on the other hand, remained the same in appearance, with a calm and gentle demeanor.


    "Not bad, you''ve borrowed the spirit horses?"


    Lan Chang''an jumped on the horse and set off with Li Ergou.


    These spirit horses were not first-rank spirit beasts but were a product of the family through crossbreeding, considered semi-spirit beasts.


    They were prepared to fulfill the three-year appointment at the Immortal Gathering Building in the Hengshui Prefecture and visit rtives in the mortal world.


    Before departing, the duo had reported to the Mu family.


    The Mu family didn''t restrict them and granted them half a year of leave.


    This smooth process surprised Lan Chang''an a bit at first.


    But on thought, he realized that Li Ergou had settled down in the Mu family, married, and had two children. He was content and harmonious with his family.


    The Mu family is surely at ease with Li Ergou.


    As for Lan Chang''an, due to hisck of marriage and children, the Mu family''s investment in him, aside from providing a cultivation site and a little of low-grade spirit rice each month, could be considered minimal.


    Not to mention, the Mu family knew about his connections in the mortal world.


    Even if he wanted to run away, It would be hard for Lan Chang''an to find a cultivation site to freeload in.


    "Big brother Lan, do you really not intend to marry and have children? It would be a waste of your medium-grade spiritual root!"


    As they left Feiyue Manor, Li Ergou couldn''t help but ask.


    At present, Lan Chang''an''s cultivation wasgging behind him.


    Li Ergou had ample supply of pills and spirit rice, although his cultivation technique was average in power, he progressed rtively fast.


    In three years, he had reached the peak of the second level of Qi Refining, opening up a gap of one year between him and Lan Chang''an.


    "If Big Brother Lan doesn''t fancy a mortal women, how about I have my wife introduce you to a family woman with spiritual roots?"


    Li Ergou''s eyes flickered as he tested the waters.


    "You, ah, so quick to consider yourself as a member of the Mu family?"


    Lu Chang''an was dumbfounded, seeing his little thoughts.


    He couldn''t help but feel that in just three years, that simple Li Ergou had changed so much.


    "There is no need to mention this."


    Lan Chang''an waved his hand, sighing, "In the cultivation world is ever-changing and the Qi-Refining stage is but a cannon fodder. At least one must build a solid foundation at the Foundation Establishment stage to have a preliminary foothold. Otherwise, if you can''t keep your head above water, how can you dare to marry and have children?"

 Chapter 10: Three Years Reunion

    Chapter 10: Three Years Reunion


    Liang Kingdom had a vast territory, with a total of thirty-two prefectures.


    For each prefecture, there were six to eight counties under its jurisdiction, with each county epassing more than ten districts.


    Of course, the above did not include the Immortal Blessed Lands.


    The speed of the spirit horses was very fast. In less than a month, the two arrived at Hengshui Prefecture.


    Hengshui City was the political centre of the prefecture, surrounded by three rivers and fivekes, with developed water resources. To enter the city, one needed a guide. Li Ergou took out the token from the Young Marquis.


    "Brother Lan, Brother Li!" Before long, the Young Marquis Lin Yi took the initiative to wee them. The three of them rode in a luxurious carriage into Hengshui Prefecture.


    "For this appointment, I have reserved the number one private room in the Immortal Gathering Building for two months."


    Lin Yi was dressed in splendid attire, with sharp eyebrows and a heroic demeanor, losing some of his sharpness from three years ago but gaining some openness and warmth.


    "Brother Lin, we have not arrivedte, have we?" Lan Chang''an smiled."No! You arrived earlier than I expected. Zhao Siyao said in her letter that she would arrive at Hengshui Prefecture in the next two days."


    It was called a three-year appointment, but it had been a while since the three years had passed.


    That evening, Lin Yi entertained the two of them in the Marquis'' residence.


    Two dayster. Lin Yi received news that Zhao Siyao had arrived at Hengshui Prefecture.


    Finally, the few immortal seedlings that walked out of Hengshui Prefecture reunited at the initial starting point after three long years.


    ...


    Hengshui Prefecture, the Tian Zi private room in the Immortal Gathering Building.


    Zhao Siyao, Lin Yi, Lan Chang''an, Li Ergou, and Xia Felen, for the first time, gathered at a table.


    Xia Felen was also a young immortal from Hengshui Prefecture. Initially introverted and awkward, he had not integrated into the group of several people.


    This person''s qualifications were ordinary, barely passing the assessment. After entering the Jin Yun Valley, he was lucky enough to be an alchemist''s apprentice.


    Originally, Xia Felen was not part of the three-year appointment.


    Given his identity as an alchemy apprentice, Lin Yi tentatively invited him, not expecting him to ultimately ept the invitation.


    "Miss Zhao, there''s no need to decline! In the world of cultivation, strength is respected. You should sit in the main seat."


    After some refusal, Zhao Siyao finally sat in the main seat.


    Today, three years having passed, Zhao Siyao was eighteen years old, dressed in a goose-yellow dress, graceful and beautiful, with a picturesque appearance.


    Between her frowns and smiles, there was a faint air of a peerless beauty.


    When they first met, Lin Yi and Li Ergou could not hide their amazement.


    When theyst met, Zhao Siyao was only fifteen years old, graceful and elegant, still a budding beauty and now she was even more so.


    Among the four, Zhao Siyao had changed the most, both in appearance and ability.


    Peak of the thirdyer of Qi-Refining.


    Her cultivation at this point was even slightly half a step ahead of Lin Yi.


    Although she was only oneyer higher than Li Ergou, the difference between them was not just one or two years. Because the thirdyer was thest stage of the low-stage Qi-Refining and thus the bottleneck at the peak of thirdyer took a while to grind.


    "Although Zhao Siyao''s talent is also a medium-grade spiritual root, her spiritual root sensibility is as high as thirty-six, close to a high-grade spiritual root."


    Lan Chang''an recalled Zhao Siyao''s talent during the Jin Yun Valley sect assessment.


    Lan Chang''an''s Fire Spirit Root barely exceeded twenty in sensitivity, barely qualifying as a medium-grade spiritual root. He cultivated with a Wood Spirit Root, which had a sensitivity of seventeen.


    The difference between the two was like night and day. Moreover, Zhao Siyao became an inner disciple of the Jin Yun Valley, and the gap would only be bigger and bigger in the future.


    If Lan Chang''an were just an ordinary cultivator, he might never be able to catch up in his lifetime.


    ...


    Li Ergou''s change was second only to Zhao Siyao''s.


    Upon learning about Li Ergou''s treatment in the Mu Family, Zhao Siyao, Lin Yi, and Xia Felen were amazed.


    Who would have thought that a peasant boy who had seen neither knowledge nor talent had made a name for himself in the cultivation family in just three years.


    Even as a noble son of royal concubine, Lin Yi felt a bit jealous and tasteless.


    Three years ago, he was seventeen years old, just entering the peak of the thirdyer of Qi-Refining, spending a lot of the royal marquis'' resources and connections.


    Later, he failed in the sect assessment, disappointing his father, Marquis Guang''an. Since then, he lost his support.


    In the spiritually poor secr world, Lin Yi''s qualifications were ordinary, and his cultivation progress wasparable to that of a snail.


    In three years, he had not even reached the peak of the thirdyer of Qi-Refining and was about to be caught up by Li Ergou.


    ''However, Lan Chang''an with a medium-grade spiritual root isn''t doing too well either.'' Looking at Lan Chang''an, Lin Yi felt a bit relieved.


    "Brother Lan, your qualifications are far superior to Li Ergou, how did you end up in this situation when you''re in the same family?


    Xia Felen said with a smile on his face, pretending to be surprised.


    At those, Zhao Siyao and Lin Yi frowned slightly.


    Xia Felen''s tone seemed like friendly banter between friends, but in fact, he wasn''t familiar with Lan Chang''an at all and hadn''t spoken two words before.


    Li Ergou was displeased: "Xia, what do you mean by that? Brother Lan just doesn''t want to..."


    "Big Brother Lan must have his reasons. No need to say more."


    Zhao Siyao''s bright eyes fell on Lan Chang''an''s face, showing a hint of concern.


    In fact, Zhao Siyao and the others could guess the general situation with Lan Chang''an.


    "It''s a slip of the tongue. Let''s drink in ce of tea, as a sign of respect."


    Xia Felen snorted, afraid of causing Zhao Siyao''s displeasure, and said no more.


    At this gathering, Xia Felen didn''t pay much attention to Lan Chang''an and the other two. He was only polite to Zhao Siyao and offering courtesy from time to time.


    "Just because of a ''Big Brother Lan''."


    Lan Chang''an was speechless.


    He had sensitive senses, and noticed that Xia Felen didn''t care much about himself when he first arrived. Only after hearing Zhao Siyao calling him "Big Brother Lan" did he put his eyes on Lan Chang''an. This was human nature.


    Three years ago, Zhao Siyao could attract the attention of Young Marquis Lin Yi. Not to mention today''s proud daughter of the heavens, the peerless beauty was beyond ordinary.


    Lin Yi felt bitter in his heart. Now, he didn''t dare to have any expectations for Zhao Siyao.


    However, as an alchemy apprentice, Xia Felen had the potential to be an alchemist, and being in the same Jin Yun Valley, there was hope. Alchemy, among the hundred crafts of immortals, were second to none.


    ...


    Next, Xia Felen rarely spoke, and the atmosphere gradually became harmonious during this three-year reunion.


    They exchanged cultivation experiences, discussed the wonders of the sects and the cultivation world...


    When evening fell, the banquet entered its finale.


    "Miss Zhao, now that you and I are both cultivators, there''s no need to maintain secr titles. In the future, why don''t we address each other as fellow cultivators?" Lan Chang''an took the initiative to propose. This suggestion was in line with the customs of the cultivation world.


    Regardless of her cultivation level or status, Zhao Siyao far surpassed him. Without any blood ties, addressing him as "Big Brother Lan" again would be inappropriate.


    With Zhao Siyao bing increasingly outstanding, those words "Big Brother Lan" might attract hatred. A careless word could invite disaster.


    ''I have plenty of life span in this life, and it''s right to run a steady business and make connections, but don''t let this little ninny''s appetion create trouble for you.'' It wasn''t that Lan Chang''an was afraid of Xia Felen, but this matter made him vignt.


    "Alright, fellow daoist Lan." Zhao Siyao was silent for a moment, understanding Lan Chang''an''s thoughts, and looked at him deeply.


    This "fellow daoist Lan" When it fell into Lan Chang''an''s ears, it felt a little less intimate than before.


    Seeing this, Xia Felen showed a reserved smile, satisfied with Lan Chang''an''s "enlightenment."


    "Brother Lan, if you need cheap pills in the future, you cane to me. I''ll give you a ten percent discount!" Xia Felen offered goodwill proactively.


    Zhao Siyao hesitated but didn''t stop him.


    Cheap elixirs? Lan Chang''anughed coldly in his heart, guessing the other party''s intention.


    As an alchemy apprentice, Xia Ferren would get some substandard and poor quality pills or even waste pills from time to time.


    It could be a reward that the dan master didn''t want, or it could be a failed product from his own practice


    In addition to the poor potency of this kind of pills, they contained high levels of poison, and the sect cultivators usually didn''t look at them.


    However, these cheap pills had a market among the wandering cultivators outside the sect or the financially weak families.


    "Thank you for your kindness, Brother Xia, but I''m short of spiritual stones and can''t afford elixirs."


    Lan Chang''an smiled bitterly.


    He spoke the truth; he didn''t even have a single spiritual stone.


    "If you don''t have any spirit stones, you can borrow them from Li Ergou! You guys have such an iron...rtionship," Xia Felenughed, unimpressed.


    He had a batch of poor pills in his hand, and he was just missing someone to take them off his hands. If sold in bulk, the profits would be lower when facing knowledgeable immortal shops. Selling directly to cultivators could earn a bit more. If he tricked some rich fools, it would be a huge profit.


    "I don''t know what the quality of the pills Brother Xia is selling is, and whether they can be traded with worldly goods such as gold and silver." Xia Felen nced at Lin Yi, his tone somewhat disdainful.


    Lin Yi was heartened to learn that there were cheap pills.


    The wind and water rotated, years ago, on the way to the assessment, Lin Yi had treated him with contempt based on his background and cultivation level.


    Now, three yearster, Lin Yi was no longer in his sight.


    Lin Yi smiled awkwardly, not daring to offend an alchemy apprentice of the sect. Xia Felen would be an alchemist in the future, a big shot that they needed to look up to.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an spoke up at the right time, relieving Lin Yi:


    "By the way, Brother Lin, you''re considered a local snake in Hengshui Prefecture. Is it possilbe to know where there are ces for cultivators to trade?"


    Lan Chang''an had some talismans to sell on hand and was ready to find a ce to make a small fortune in spirit stones.


    He could also trade in the Mu Family, but he couldn''t reveal his identity as a talisman maker too quickly. A year ago, he bought talisman materials from Mu Xiuyun''s hands. From a neer in the talisman path to a formal talisman master, it had to be a gradual process.


    "There''s a trade fair organised by wandering cultivators in this area of Hengshui Prefecture, and it just so happens that there''s one this month. If Brother Lan needs it, I can help introduce him."


    Lin Yi warmly responded, casting grateful nces at Lan Chang''an.


    "Then I''ll trouble Brother Lin."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, appreciative. <ul> <li>Your feedback and ratings are greatly appreciated. If you have a moment, please consider rating this novel on Novelupdates.</li> <li>Should you notice any errors in this chapter, kindly mention them in thements below so I can correct them. Thank you!</li> </ul>

 Chapter 11: The Frostwind Shows Its Might

    Chapter 11: The Frostwind Shows Its Might


    There''s no feast thatsts forever.


    As the group led by Lan Chang''an exited the Ju Xian Tower, they bid farewell to each other, exchanging blessings such as "May the immortal road be prosperous."


    "Brother Lan, if you''re short on spirit stones, I can lend you ten," Zhao Siyao offered before parting.


    Lan Chang''an pondered briefly and surprisingly didn''t refuse. He borrowed ten spirit stones from Zhao Siyao.


    Li Ergou couldn''t help but click his tongue.


    ...


    "Big Brother Lan! Could it be that my spirit stones don''t smell as good as Zhao Siyao''s?" Li Ergouined after parting ways.


    During their time at the Mu family, he had seen Lan Chang''an in need of cultivation resources several times, offering spirit stones out of goodwill, but Lan Chang''an had always declined.


    "Hehe, her spirit stones do indeed have a better fragrance than yours," Lan Chang''an chuckled lightly.In truth, Lan Chang''an was willing to borrow spirit stones to establish a rtionship with Zhao Siyao, a disciple of a sect. The so-called exchange of favors required some "exchange" to happen. By borrowing spirit stones this time, Lan Chang''an would owe Zhao Siyao a favor, creating a social connection. As long as Zhao Siyao didn''t deliberately distance herself in the future, Lan Chang''an was willing to maintain thiswork. After all, sects held many rare resources, including information from the upper echelons of the cultivation world. Lan Chang''an, practicing in a small family, didn''t want to be cut off from such crucial information about the cultivation world. Furthermore, befriending an inner disciple could be quite practical in the lower levels of the cultivation world.


    "I''m also short on spirit stones, why don''t you lend me one?" Lin Yi remained silent on one side, feeling sour inside.


    The three of them hit the road back to the Royal Marquis'' residence.


    ...


    The next day, Li Ergou went back to his hometown to visit his rtives.


    The two agreed to meet again at the Royal Marquis'' Mansion in two months.


    Lan Chang''an prepared to attend a wandering cultivator trade fair in a few days before heading to the Angry Bird Gang.


    A few dayster...


    Lin Yi returned from outside and handed a wooden token to Lan Chang''an.


    "Brother Lan, this is the token for the wandering cultivator trade fair. It will be held tomorrow night at a location outside Hengshui Prefecture..."


    "Are you noting along, Brother Lin?" Lan Chang''an took the wooden token, noticing it was made of spirit wood.


    ''I''m afraid that it would take a certain price to get the qualification to attend the fair.''


    "I have been there a few months ago. This time, I have no need. I''m short on funds, so I won''t go this time to make a fool of myself." Lin Yiughed bitterly, a hint of self-deprecation in his words.


    In these days spent at the Marquis Guang''an''s Mansion, Lan Chang''an learned about Lin Yi''s current situation. As the son of a nobleman, Lin Yi initially didn''t hold a high position in the mansion. It was only when he was discovered to possess spiritual roots at the age of seven that he gained the attention and cultivation efforts of Marquis Guang''an.


    In fact, most upper-ss figures in society knew about the cultivation world''s channels, while the lower sses only knew of some mythical tales about immortals. After failing the sect assessment, the support Lin Yi received from the marquis''s mansion was limited.


    Want to be an official in the dynasty or join the army?


    It was a pity. The Liang Immortal Cultivation Sect made a rule:


    Immortal cultivators were not allowed to interfere in secr dynasties, let alone kill at will. In this way, Lin Yi''s situation was a bit awkward.


    "I''ve bothered Brother Lin this time." Lan Chang''an expressed his gratitude, and was considered to have taken Lin Yi''s favour.


    ...


    The next evening.


    Dozens of miles outside Hengshui Prefecture.


    An old temple, obscured by mist, was difficult for ordinary people to notice.


    Lan Chang''an used his spiritual eye technique and entered the dpidated temple.


    Sure enough, he found the figures of some wandering cultivators inside.


    Men, women, old, and young, mostly at the Qi-Refining Initial Stage, with only three or four at the Qi-Refining Middle Stage.


    Some showed their true faces, while others wore masks or straw hats to conceal their identities.


    Lan Chang''an had disguised himself beforehand and utilized the mundane technique of body shrinking to appear as a strong and young man.


    Being a new face, he inevitably attracted some attention from the present cultivators.


    "This new daoist friend, how should we address you?" A tall, skinny man at the fourth level of Qi-Refining asked, his eyes flickering as he looked over.


    This man seemed to be one of the organizers of the trade fair.


    "My surname is Jiang," Lan Chang''an casually gave a surname and handed over the token.


    "Fellow daoist Jiang, please find a ce to sit. The trade fair will begin shortly," the tall, skinny man inspected the token and nodded.


    After waiting for about half an hour, around two to three dozen people gathered in the dpidated temple, and the trade fair officially began.


    The trading process was straightforward. Each person took turns to speak, showcasing the resources they had for sale or stating what they were looking to purchase.


    "I have three Vermillion Pine Cones for sale. Priority goes to the highest bidder."


    "Three hundred years of He Shou Wu, prioritizing trades for spirit stones and pills..."


    "A low-grade magical weapon, the Green Steel Shuttle, with some damage to the casing. Any daoist friends interested..."


    Lan Chang''an observed for a while and noticed that the items being traded were mostly low-end. Some were merely worldly great medicines, not spiritual items from the cultivation world.


    "I have five Qi Nourishing Pills for sale, fifty percent cheaper than market price," the tall, skinny man spoke.


    "Qi Nourishing Pills? Fifty percent cheaper than market price?" This immediately piqued the interest of many.


    Qi Nourishing Pills were suitable for cultivators at the Qi Refining Initial Stage, capable of enhancing their spiritual energy and promoting cultivation.


    "I''m afraid it''s not a genuine elixir, how much medicinal effect does it have?" For the bottom level loose cultivators, pills were hard toe by, and cheap pills inevitably moved them.


    "After appraisal by me and Mr. Wang, the pills are close to fifty percent of the genuine ones in efficacy, with slightly higher toxicity," The tall and thin man surnamed Xu said lightly.


    Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred, remembering the inferior pills that Xia Felen had peddled before. However, Xu, as one of the organizers, was obviously not Xia Felen. He wondered if there was any connection between the two.


    After a while, it was Lan Chang''an''s turn.


    "I, Jiang, have ten talismans for sale: four Fireball Talismans, three Wind de Talismans, and three of the Golden Light Shield. Thetter two are first-rank mid-grade talismans."


    Lan Chang''an took out ten talismans and spoke confidently.


    "Middle-grade talismans?" The wandering cultivators in the dpidated temple showed surprise.


    Fireball Talismans and the like were rtivelymon low-grade talismans.


    However, middle-grade talismans were lessmon. Whenever they appeared, there were usually only two or three.


    Lan Chang''an noticed the astonishment and curiosity in their eyes. He had to say that he had overestimated the grade of this trade fair.


    Originally, he had ten nk talisman papers left, and he could have drawn ten middle-grade talismans for all of them. However, he restrained himself by only drawing six.


    Fortunately, the total value of these talismans was not high, notparable to a low-grade magical weapon.


    "Fellow daoist Jiang, do you happen to know any first-rank talisman masters?" The speaker, a beautiful, tall, purple-skirted woman at the fourth level of Qi Refining, her voice transmitting a hint of warmth.


    This woman Lan Chang''an had some impression, honoured by the others as "Fairy Purple Rose", was one of the few mid-stage Qi-Refining cultivators.


    "You don''t need to inquire about the specific origins," Lan Chang''an replied stiffly, not denying the Purple Rose Fairy''s probing.


    A first-rank mid-grade talisman,parable to the power of a spell in the middle stage of Qi Refining, was a bestseller amongst the wandering cultivators due to the fair prices. In less than a quarter of an hour, the ten talismans in Lan Chang''an hand were sold out.


    First-rank low-grade talismans had a market price of about 2-3 spirit stones.


    First-rank mid-grade talismans had a market price between 4-6 spirit stones.


    In total, Lan Chang''an earned forty spirit stones.


    He deliberately controlled the quality of the talismans he sold, ensuring they were of normal quality.


    He still had seven first-rank mid-grade talismans on him, which were even more powerful. However, they were only for self-defense and not for sale.


    After earning the spirit stones. Lan Chang''an bought two bottles of normal Qi Nourishing Pills, spending twenty spirit stones.


    He also bought one bottle each of the Meridian Easing Pill, Ever Spring Pill, and Great Rejuvenation Pill, suitable for mortal martial artists to consume, only one and a half spirit stones were spent.


    "The top-grade pills of martial arts are so cheap here." Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly.


    There were also materials such as talisman paper and vermillion sand for sale at the trade fair.


    To be on the safe side, Lan Chang''an didn''t purchase any here. After all, he could buy them at the Mu family, where the quality of talisman paper was better in the hands of Mu Xiuyun.


    ...


    The trade fair concluded.


    With speed that exceeded the speed of an usual early Qi-Refining stage, Lan Chang''an quickly withdrew from the scene and disappeared into the mountains and forests. Some cultivators who were interested in him hadn''t even had time to react.


    "This kid can get his hands on a supply of middle-grade talismans, he must have some background, right?"


    The tall and thin man surnamed Xu, one of the organisers, stroked his chin and looked in the direction Lan Chang''an had disappeared.


    Although curious, he was not so curious as to strike out for that little value.


    Suddenly, Xu, along with a few others, caught sight of a streak of purple smoke, swiftly flying through the night, heading straight towards Lan Chang''an''s direction.


    "Huh! Purple Rose Fairy! She actually couldn''t help herself?"


    A few people including the tall and thin man showed surprise on their faces.


    Among them, the Purple Rose Fairy had a rtively clean record, rarely making moves. But whenever she did, her gains were not insignificant, showing her urate judgment.


    ...


    "Hmph! If that person had a background, he wouldn''te to a ce like this for transactions. Being this cautious, and running away so quickly..."


    In the mountain forest, the beautiful and tall woman in purple showed a hint of cunning and coldness on her radiant and wless face.


    Phew!


    A Wind Travel Talisman was activated, and the Purple Rose Fairy''s speed surpassed that of an ordinary cultivator at the Qi-Refining middle-stage, gradually closing in on Lan Chang''an.


    As she approached a nearby mountain ravine.


    Lan Chang''an''s figure suddenly disappeared, as if swallowed by the darkness of night.


    "Where is he? He definitely hasn''t gone far!"


    Stopping near the mountain ravine, the Purple Rose Fairy''s expression turned wary.


    "Kid! There''s no need to hide, I know you''re nearby."


    She summoned a white square handkerchief, with white light flickering, forming a cloud-likeyer several meters wide in front of her.


    She secretly wondered, how could that person be so skilled at concealing his aura?


    "The night is dark and the wind is high. Is thedy who is chasing so closely intending to discuss matters of love?" The fluttering man''s voice echoed in her ears.


    The Purple Rose Fairy''s heart trembled as the sound of the wind roared.


    Suddenly, her back felt cold.


    Not good! The Purple Rose Fairy instinctively controlled the white square handkerchief to block behind her.


    Whoosh!


    A terrifying frosty wind swept through, with a diameter of about four to five meters, instantly engulfing the Purple Rose Fairy.


    "Frostwind Technique? Not right! Why is its power so great..."


    The Purple Rose Fairy had just breathed a sigh of relief when her face and limbs were covered in frost, her expression losing colour in horror.

 Chapter 12: First Encounter with Zhang Tieshan

    Chapter 12: First Encounter with Zhang Tieshan


    The Ice Wind Technique was an area-of-effect spell.


    The Purple Rose Fairy, controlling the white square handkerchief, could only block one side, and was immediately engulfed by the cold wind, struggling to move.


    She strenuously reached out and touched the storage pouch at her waist.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an, like a rotten log, rose from the shrubs ten meters away.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Three dark red fireballs were instantlyunched, making it difficult for the Purple Rose Fairy to defend herself, her skirt exploding, and ice shards flying.


    "Young master, spare me! I''m willing to..."


    The Purple Rose Fairy copsed to the ground, her teeth ttering, her beautiful face already covered inrge patches of decay under the dual impact of ice and fire spells.


    Even though this woman seemed to have no power to resist.Lan Chang''an kept his distance, picking up a stone, he used the martial skill Sky Piercing Finger to deliver a long-range strike.


    There was a loud "Peng" sound.


    The Purple Rose Fairy''s head exploded like a watermelon.


    "So weak, how dare youe out to rob?"


    Lan Chang''an approached the corpse of the purple-skirted beauty, picked up the magical item handkerchief, and took off her storage pouch. Without even looking at the spoils in the pouch, he swiftly withdrew from the scene.


    After a cup of tea''s time.


    Several people including the tall and thin man surnamed Xu arrived at the scene.


    Looking at the corpse of the Purple Rose Fairy, the several cultivators shuddered with fear, showing signs of suspicion and dread.


    ...


    An hourter, in the wilderness.


    Lan Chang''an confirmed that there were no pursuers and began to check the Purple Rose Fairy''s storage pouch.


    First, he eliminated anything used for tracking and burned some of the female clothes inside.


    Having a storage pouch and a low-grade magical item, the Purple Rose Fairy was considered well-off among the wandering cultivators.


    Inside the pouch were more than forty spirit stones, two bottles of Qi Nourishing Pills, one bottle of Qi Recovery Pills, one bottle of Detoxifying Pills, and a few books on immortal cultivation,


    There were six first-rank talismans, two of which were middle-grade talismans, both sold by Lan Chang''an. The total value was close to two hundred spirit stones.


    "This woman is quite fat! I''m afraid she''s probably not an ordinary loose cultivator." Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly.


    Indeed, as the saying goes, no grass grows on a busy road, and no one remains poor without a windfall. The wealth earned from a single killing was several times what he had earned from drawing talismans.


    "Those who walk by the river are bound to get their shoes wet. In this life, I''m cultivating the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, so I have to run a steady business and never go down the path of robbing cultivators." Lan Chang''an dismissed the greed in his heart.


    Killing people to seize treasures was ultimately risky. Who could guarantee that every strike would hit seemingly weak targets? For example, the Purple Rose Fairy, would she have expected today''s oue?


    Lan Chang''an remembered a rumor from his previous life:


    There was a wicked cultivator in the Nascent Soul Realm who was unscrupulous in robbing and killing. Because of his unparalleled speed, nearby cultivation forces could not do nothing about it.


    Until one day, in a merchant caravan that the wicked cultivator had seized, there was actually a disguised Deity Transformation Realm cultivator among them, whose cultivation was only at the Qi-Refining stage on the surface.


    In the end, the wicked cultivator died without peace, and the wealth he had plundered hard for all his life became his shroud.


    ...


    Hengshui Prefecture governed seven counties.


    Ande County was one of the seven. The entire county was built along the river, with waterways extending in all directions.


    ces with well-developed water resources often had few gangs in the rivers andkes.


    The Angry Bird Gang is the leading gang in Ande County, controlling nearly forty percent of the gray ie in the surrounding waterways.


    On this day, at the Angry Bird Gang headquarters.


    The gang leader, Qi Jingyun, suddenly summoned his three sons to discuss in a secret chamber, and they didn''te out for half a day.


    "Foster father, these martial arts masterpieces point straight to the innate nature of martial arts."


    "You guys should have heard of the Meridian Easing Pill, Ever Spring Pill, and Great Rejuvenation Pill..."


    Lan Chang''an looked at the sixty-year-old, burly figure of his foster father, feeling a warm affection as memories of their past experiences flooded back.


    Qi Jingyun was a first-rate expert in the Jianghu, operating in Ande County for decades, dominating the upper and lower reaches of the river.


    Meeting today, Qi Jingyun''s majesty still remained the same, only a few more strands of grey hair at the temples.


    "Meridian Easing Pill, Ever Spring Pill, and Great Rejuvenation Pill." The other three foster sons'' eyes glowed as they stared at the three bottles of pills on the table.


    The Ease of Meridian Pill, could ease the meridians and cut down the marrow, improving martial arts qualifications.


    Great Rejuvenation Pill, which could improve one''s power for several decades.


    Ever Spring Pill, which had the effect of prolonging life for mortals.


    "Chang''an, these pills should be very expensive, right?"


    Qi Jingyun''s face was hesitant as he looked at the bottle of Evergreen Pill, it would be disingenuous to say that he wasn''t moved.


    Qi Jingyun hesitated, looking at the bottle of Ever Spring Pill with a hint of temptation in his eyes.


    "For us cultivators, these are not worth much."


    Lan Chang''an did not tell them that the three pills only cost one and a half spirit stones, which was quite cheap.


    "Good! Chang''an, you have a kind heart."


    Qi Jingyun''s face was filled with contentment.


    He was getting older, and he had a strong need for the Ever Spring Pill. The other two pills were better left for the younger generation.


    "Chang''an, the position of gang leader was originally intended to be passed on to you. Since you''ve embarked on the path of immortality, I n to let Li Hong handle the internal affairs of the gang in the future," Qu Jingyun said, expressing his own arrangements but also seeking Lan Chang''an''s opinion.


    "I believe in Second Brother''s ability." Lan Chang''an replied with a smile.


    His foster brother, Li Hong, was a stern-looking young man, a second-rate martial artist in the Jianghu. Li Hong was ambitious and had previously wanted topete with Lan Chang''an for the position of gang leader, leading to some slight discord between them.


    Today, however, Lan Chang''an had transcended that level entirely and no longer cared about the position of gang leader.


    "Chang''an, do you think we can cultivate immortality?" Li Hong was silent for a moment and finally couldn''t help but ask. Previously, Lan Chang''an had demonstrated immortal techniques in front of them.


    Several years had passed, and Lan Chang''an''s appearance remained unchanged, showing no signs of aging.


    For Li Hong and the others to say that they didn''t yearn for it would be self-deceiving.


    "Immortals cultivators need spiritual roots, and besides, you''ve all missed the age for cultivation," Lan Chang''an said with a smile, understanding their feelings.


    So, he took the opportunity to check the spiritual roots of his three foster brothers and foster father. The result was that none of them had spiritual root qualifications. In fact, there was no one in the world who had absolutely no Immortal Cultivation qualifications. A sensing degree above ten indicated a low-grade spiritual root.


    A sensing degree below five indicated an inferior spiritual root.


    A sensing degree below one could be ignored, effectively meaning there were no qualifications.


    ...


    After nightfall.


    Lan Chang''an privately spoke with his foster father again and gave him several first-rank low-grade talismans.


    In the future, if his foster brothers were unfilial, Qu Jingyun would have the talismans to easily suppress them.


    "Oh, foster father, what happened to Taoist Master Guan, who introduced me to cultivation back then? I wonder where he went?" Lan Chang''an inquired.


    Taoist Master Guan was a destitute wandering cultivator who had been seriously injured years ago. He had fled to the territory of the Angy Birds Gang and been sheltered by Lan Chang''an. It was also he who had introduced Lan Chang''an to the path of immortality.


    " After sending you to the sect''s assessment Taoist Master Guan stayed in the Hengshui Prefecture for two months before leaving without saying goodbye..." Qu Jingyun recalled.


    "Two months?" Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but suspect that Taoist Master Guan might have learnt that he had failed the Sect Examination and lost interest in investing.


    The next day, Lan Chang''an didn''t linger in the Angry Bird Gang.


    At the request of his foster father, he left behind a copy of the Origin-Opening Scripture and drifted away.


    This attribute-less Origin-Opening Scripture, if a mortal could cultivate it, would prove their qualification for immortality.


    ...


    "In this life, without family or rtives, there''s nothing much to miss in the mundane world."


    Lan Chang''an felt as ease both physically and mentally as he stepped onto a t boat and drifted downstream.


    For the next month or so, he travelled in the waves along the river.


    In the quiet of the night, he meditated on the boat, practicing the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, drawing on the mysterious qi of the years.


    Lan Chang''an discovered that although it was difficult to refine his mana when in the secr world, it didn''t affect the Evergreen Technique''s ability to absorb the Qi of the ages. He took the Qi Nourishing Pill andbined it with spirit stones to make up for the gap in the refinement of his mana.


    It wasn''t until the time agreed upon with Li Ergou approached that Lan Chang''an returned to the Hengshui Prefecture City.


    ...


    Inside the Royal Marquis Mansion.


    Li Ergou had just arrived half a day ago, with a look of mncholy on his face, obviously having parted with his loved ones not long ago. In addition to the two of them, there was another immortal cultivator as a guest in the mansion.


    "Brother Lan, let me introduce you. This is Zhang Tieshan, an outer disciple of the Jin Yun Valley."


    Lin Yi weed a burly, slightly dark-skinned young man into the room.


    "Zhang Tieshan?"


    Lan Chang''an observed this thirdyer Qi-Refiner, dressed inly but with a somewhat familiar name.


    "Ha ha! Zhang Tieshan was the first in the Illusion Heart tform three years ago when we participated in the sect assessment together. Brother Lu, do you remember?" Lin Yiughed heartily.


    "So it''s fellow daoist Zhang, nice to meet you."


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment and recalled. Three years ago, when he had just recovered his memory, he hadn''t paid much attention to who was the first on the Illusion Heart tform.


    But there was indeed such a person in the assessment, though his presence wasn''t particrly strong. For this person to be the first on the Illusion Heart tform, he was definitely not an ordinary person!


    "Fellow daoist Lan, I''ve also heard of your deeds." Zhang Tieshan smiled, not showing any arrogance.


    Deeds about himself in the sect?


    Lan Chang''an didn''t need to think too much. It was probably an anecdote about an "older" middle grade spiritual root who was eliminated in the examination and had no choice but to marry into a cultivation family.


    Lan Chang''an was curious about why Zhang Tieshan hade to the Marquis'' Mansion. Zhang Tieshan wasn''t a immortal seedling from the Hengshui Prefecture.


    "Fellow daoist Lan, I''vee to you this time for a sect mission..."


    After chatting for a while, Zhang Tieshan exined his purpose.


    "Brother Lan, the danger of that haunted house isn''t high, it''s just that the evil spirit inside has a bit of cunning. Although fellow daoist Zhang can defeat it, one person is not good enough to take it down, which is why he seeks our assistance." Lin Yi obviously knew the situation and helped to add.


    "Haunted house evil spirit?" Li Ergou shivered.


    It turned out that Zhang Tieshan had taken on a sect mission to exterminate a ghost in a haunted house within the Hengshui Prefecture.


    The owner of that haunted house was a descendant of a cultivator from the Jin Yun Valley. After learning about the situation, Lan Chang''an felt that the danger was indeed not high.


    However, he didn''t want to go.


    Firstly, Zhang Tieshan hadn''t explicitly mentioned any remuneration, perhaps because he was a disciple of the outer sect and didn''t have much money.


    Secondly, although the ghost seemed weak, who could guarantee that there weren''t any other factors or traps involved?


    The risk did not match the reward.


    Although he was willing to get acquaninted with Zhang Tieshan, he didn''t want to take unnecessary risks.


    "Unfortunately, our deadline for returning to the family ising up, and we can''t afford to be dyed outside. I''ll have to let Brother Zhang down." Lan Chang''an declined tactfully.


    "Right! Time''s tight, my wife is urging me to return, so I can''t go to that haunted house." Li Ergou hurriedly agreed.


    Zhang Tieshan''s expression changed slightly, seeming a bit stunned.


    It seemed that he hadn''t expected Lan Chang''an, who he thought would easily help exterminate the ghost, to refuse.

 Chapter 13: Dare You Dismount and Fight

    Chapter 13: Dare You Dismount and Fight


    Lin Yi was surprised and slightly disappointed.


    He knew that Lan Chang''an was making excuses - time was not really that urgent.


    "If fellow daoist Lan is not avable, then forget it."


    Zhang Tieshan''s expression returned to normal, and he did not insist.


    Since Lan Chang''an mentioned time being tight, he took the opportunity to bid farewell.


    Li Ergou walked at a brisk pace.


    "Big brother Lan, are you afraid of ghosts too?"


    After leaving the royal marquis mansion, Li Ergou let out a long sigh of relief, looking sympathetic.


    "It''s alright."Evil ghosts in the mundane world, Lu Chang''an did not put them in his eyes.


    "You refused so quickly, I don''t believe it!"


    Li Ergou hemmed and hawed, thinking that Lan Chang''an was just like himself.


    The difference between the two was:


    One was truly afraid; the other was truly prudent.


    ...


    On the official road, the two men galloped their horses towards Feiyue Mountain Vi.


    It seemed they would reach Feiyue Lake in one more day.


    "Wait!"


    When they reached a certain valley, Lan Chang''an raised his hand to stop the horses.


    "What''s wrong, Big brother Lan?"


    Li Ergou was eager to return to his wife and children in the family, his heart longing to go home like an arrow.


    "If we take the main road, this is a necessary passage to return to Feiyue Lake but the terrain is treacherous, suitable for an ambush."


    Lan Chang''an remembered passing through here three years ago for the first time. Mu, the family head, was very cautious in exploring, but they passed through safely in the end.


    "You mean there''s an ambush here?"


    Li Ergou''s heart skipped a beat as he recalled the Zheng family''s attempt to kill them three years ago, and his face turned pale.


    That attempt had resulted in the deaths of four young disciples, leaving a lingering trauma in Li Ergou''s heart.


    "Not sure." Lan Chang''an''s eyes were slightly closed.


    His spiritual sense merged into the Nine Seal Stele in his consciousness.


    Compared to three years ago:


    The "handsome young man" in the first seal was no longer a gray, lifeless image, but instead radiated with a glowing, lifelike appearance.


    This was the result of Lan Chang''an''s soul cultivation over the past three years.


    The "white-bearded old man" in the second seal, representing his previous life''s Core Formation Realm state, was still shrouded in darkness and remained unlit.


    "Then what should we do?"


    Li Ergou felt a little panicked, feeling that the Zheng family''s assassins were lurking in the valley.


    "To be safe, we''ll take a detour!"


    Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, unhesitatingly turning his horse around.


    "Big brother Lan really understands me."


    Li Ergouughed heartily, turning his horse with Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    "What''s going on? Why did those two kids suddenly turn back?"


    At this moment, a few cultivators hidden on both sides of the valley looked at each other in confusion.


    "Never mind! Even if it''s just two Qi Refining initiates, we''ll kill them head-on to avenge our little Yan!"


    An ugly woman with a fierce face gritted her teeth.


    If Lan Chang''an were here, he would definitely recognize this ugly woman as the Qi-Refining fourthyer cultivator he had fought during the assassination of the immortal seedlings.


    "Little Feng, are you sure it''s that kid?"


    The middle-aged man with a round face, whose cultivation was the highest at the Qi Refining sixthyer, asked.


    "Brother! It''s him who killed little Yan, I''d recognize him even if he turned to ashes!"


    The ugly woman''s eyes were bloodshot, her heart burning with rage.


    Without waiting for orders, she immediately rode a bronze bell artifact and pursued them through the air.


    The speed of flight for Qi-Refining cultivators controlling artifacts was not fast.


    But the ugly woman poured her spiritual power frenziedly, and the bronze bell under her feet hummed loudly, bursting with speed that allowed her to catch up to Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou in a short time.


    "Big brother Lan, she''s catching up!"


    Li Ergou felt like he was facing a formidable enemy and took out a low-grade magic weapon.


    "Don''t panic, she''s just a target up there."


    Lan Chang''an remained calm.


    He was well aware of how weak thebat ability of early and mid Qi Refining cultivators was in aerial battles.


    First, there were limitations to their magic weapons.


    Generally, early Qi Refining cultivators could only control one low-grade magic weapon due to their limited mana capacity and spiritual awareness.


    Mid Qi Refining cultivators could control two low-grade magic weapons or one mid-grade weapon.


    Take the ugly woman at the Qi-Refining fourthyer as an example.


    Maintaining flight with one magic weapon would already consume more than half of her effort, let alone elerating at full burst.


    How muchbat ability could she really exert in such a situation?


    ...


    Pong pong pong!


    Lan Chang''an flung three fireballs backwards, causing the ugly woman in the air to sway unsteadily and narrowly avoid falling.


    She had no ability to pursue them in the air!


    Qi-Refining cultivators did not possess the innate ability of flight and mainly relied on magic weapons, so their aerial agility could be imagined.


    Only in thete Qi-Refining stage did they gain a certain degree of aerialbat ability.


    "Haha! No wonder she''s a target."


    Li Ergou suddenly understood, mustering his courage to retaliate with two fireballs. However, his speed and uracy were far inferior to Lan Chang''an''s, and the ugly woman dodged them.


    "Little Feng, don''t rush! We''ll chase them on horseback."


    At this time, the middle-aged man with the round face at the Qi-Refining sixthyer, along with two other mid Qi-Refining cultivators, caught up on horseback.


    He was experienced and knew the lousy aerialbat abilities of mid Qi-Refining cultivators.


    "Don''t worry, our spirit steeds were trained by the renowned ''Beast Taming Zhou Family'' and have exceptional speed and endurance."


    The round-faced middle-aged man was full of confidence.


    Indeed, the distance between the two parties was gradually closing.


    "You little thieves! Let''s see where you can run!"


    The ugly woman''s eyes were filled with icy resentment as she red at Lan Chang''an.


    On horseback, they wouldn''t need to expend man and spiritual awareness.


    As long as they got close enough, they could attempt ranged attacks and kill with their spells and magic weapons.


    "Big brother Lan, what should we do?"


    Li Ergou asked anxiously.


    With the pursuers being mid Qi Refining cultivators, getting close meant certain death.


    "Ergou, squeeze your legs tighter in a bit."


    Lan Chang''an instructed.


    "Squeeze tighter? At a time like this, you''re still making that kind of..."


    Li Ergou couldn''t help butugh bitterly.


    Before he finished speaking:


    Lan Chang''an took out two cyan talisman slips, whichnded on the belly of the Spirit Colt that he and Li Ergou were sitting on respectively.


    Instantly!


    The two spirit steeds'' hooves kicked up wind, their bodies feeling much lighter as their speed increased explosively!


    "So fast!"


    Li Ergou leaned forward, almost flying off, and obediently squeezed his legs tighter against the horse''s belly.


    Clop clop! Clop clop!


    On the official road, the two spirit steeds galloped at lightning speed, kicking up a trail of dust.


    ...


    "So fast?" The ugly woman and the round-faced middle-aged man were stunned.


    "That kid used talisman slips!"


    They also had eleration talismans, such as the low-grade first-rank Wind Tread Talisman.


    "Don''t be stingy, everyone, I''ll cover the expenses."


    The round-faced middle-aged man made a prompt decision.


    The group of four all used eleration talismans, sticking them to their horses'' bellies.


    The round-faced man and the ugly woman each used a mid-grade Wind Speed Talisman for even greater speed.


    Yet even so:


    The distance between them and Lan Chang''an kept increasing slowly.


    "How is this possible? Why can''t we catch up?"


    The round-faced man was astonished, unable to understand.


    He was certain that the talisman slips Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou used were at most mid-grade.


    Their spirit steeds were of higher quality, so logically they should have been faster.


    "Junior! Dare you dismount and fight?"


    Seeing that they couldn''t catch up, the Qi-Refining sixthyer round-faced man grew anxious and shouted angrily.


    "Your horses can''t match our speed. No matter how high your cultivation, what can you do to us?"


    Lan Chang''an calmly responded, making the pursuers behind grow increasingly infuriated and hurl nonstop curses.


    Before long, the cursing voices grew fainter and fainter, and the ugly woman''s group was no longer visible on the road.


    "Big brother Lan, that move was really formidable!"


    Li Ergou''s face was full of excitement. The pursuers couldn''t even catch their dust trail - such a sense of security!


    Li Ergou couldn''t help but ponder: "If our horses ran fast enough, could we even defy Core Formation elders and Nascent Soul True Monarchs?"


    "Ah! So you understand the concept of extraption - a teachable child indeed!"


    Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but praise.


    ...


    Two dayster,


    Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou abandoned their horses and took a detour through the wilderness before hurrying back to Feiyue Mountain Vi.


    Upon returning to the family, they immediately reported the matter.


    This incident rmed the upper echelons of the Mu family.


    The family head, Mu Maode, personally questioned Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou.


    The final conclusion was: vengeance!


    For Lan Chang''an''s alertness in detecting the ambush, Mu Maode secretly praised him.


    Lan Chang''an also believed it was an act of vengeance. From Mu Maode, he learned the identities of the ugly woman and others.


    The ugly woman''s name was Zheng Feng. The Qi-Refining thirdyer cultivator named Zheng Yan, who Lan Chang''an had killed before, was her illegitimate son.


    The round-faced middle-aged man named Zheng Dong was Zheng Feng''s brother, considered a young elite cultivator of the Zheng family.


    "Zheng Feng...Zheng Dong..." Lan Chang''an quietly noted their names in his little book, intending to take revenge when he had the chance.


    Indeed, he had paid a price, but now there was an opportunity for revenge.


    However, he only had a 70% chance of sess, which risked exposing himself.


    There was no need to take that risk. He would wait until he could crush them like squashing an ant without the slightest hint, then stealthily annihte them.


    Lan Chang''an did not pursue killing opponents above his level. He preferred steady, overwhelming suppression.


    After Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou left, family head Mu Maode''s expression gradually turned grim.


    "How did the Zheng family obtain information about Lan Chang''an''s outing and the time of his return?"


    ...


    "As a cultivation faction, it''s normal for the Mu family to have spies. I should go out less from now on."


    Upon returning to his private residence, Lan Chang''an fell into contemtion.


    "But I should consider the present first! I made a five-year agreement with the family head, after which I must take a wife and have children."


    Normally, he would be at thete Condensing Pellet stage after five years of re-cultivation, at least reaching the mid Qi Refining stage.


    But ns couldn''t keep up with the changes.


    He did not anticipate the special nature of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, requiring him to absorb the QI of the ages, resulting in such a slow pace of advancement.


    This nullified the advantage of his re-cultivation.


    Moreover, he cultivated a wood-attribute technique, and only had a low-grade spiritual root in the attribute.


    As a result, even after more than three years, his cultivation was still stuck at the second level of Qi Refining.


    "Now that I have pills to assist me, I should be able to speed up the process..."


    Lan Chang''an consumed a Qi Nourishing Pill and closed his eyes to cultivate.

 Chapter 14: First-Rank Talisman Master

    Chapter 14: First-Rank Talisman Master


    Three monthster.


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, exhaling a long breath.


    After practical testing, taking pills, the mana growth was indeed a few points faster.


    However, the increase was limited by the Evergreen Technique''s ability to draw in the Qi of the ages.


    Once exceeding a certain "threshold", adding more Qi Nourishing Pills would be useless.


    The cycle of time, day and night, year after year.


    This would not change due to pills. At least, ordinary pills would not work.


    In contrast, if Li Ergou had a stable supply of elixir pills, cultivating with the same low-grade spiritual root, his progress would be slightly faster than Lan''s.


    "However, the pills greatly saved me time from sitting in meditation," Lan Chang''an concluded.Now, he only needed to meditate for an hour or two each day. This way, he had a lot of free time.


    Lan Chang''an considered whether he should juggle some time-consuming side-works in the future.


    For example, he could study the art of talismans, learn alchemy, and cultivate body refining on the side.


    Or cultivating some hobbies.


    "First, I need to get out of being a parasite." he thought.


    ...


    Walking out of the house, Lan Chang''an saw a letter in the gatehouse of the courtyard.


    It was signed by Lin Yi.


    Lan Chang''an opened the envelope.


    In the letter, Lin Yi said that after partingst time, he and Zhang Tieshan went to that haunted house to exterminate the ghost, without any incidents, and captured and killed the vicious ghost.


    The materials left behind by the ghost, as well as the spiritual items from its hiding ce, were worth more than a hundred spirit stones.


    Zhang Tieshan was very generous and gave Lin Yi forty percent of the spoils.


    At the end of the letter, Lin Yi regretted that Lan Chang''an did not participate, otherwise he could not only have a share of the gains, but also make friends with a promising disciple of the sect.


    After reading the letter, Lan Chang''an smiled.


    The letter Lin Yi sent might not be without the intention of showing off,ining that Lan did not join themst time.


    Lan Chang''an had no regrets nor envy.


    He took out paper and a brush, and wrote a reply to Lin Yi, congratting him on the opportunity and chatting about some everyday matters.


    "May the Immortal Path be ever flourishing."


    At the end of the letter, he left a blessing full of positive energy.


    ...


    A few dayster, it was the middle of the month.


    It was time for the monthly trade fair within the Purple Moon Manor.


    Lan Chang''an came to the September Building for the second time.


    This time, he sold the basic talismans he had refined.


    It was not so much selling, but more like disying them.


    Being able to refine basic talismans meant he was already a student of the talisman path.


    Although he only sold three basic talismans for one spirit stone,


    Lan Chang''an''s identity as a talisman apprentice had already been noticed by the attentive cultivators of the Mu family.


    "That Miss Mu is not here this time."


    Lan Chang''an''s purpose ining out to disy was to convey a message to the core members of the Mu family.


    In this way, bing a first-rank talisman master would be a natural progression.


    He bought the talisman tools and materials from Mu Xiuyun, who was a key witness.


    Of course, it didn''t matter if Mu Xiuyun wasn''t there.


    As long as he became a first-rank talisman master, there would be a trail to follow.


    "Young Master Lan, the young miss wishes to see you."


    Just as Lan Chang''an finished buying some talisman materials and walked out of the September Building, a maid came after him from behind.


    She was quick to react!


    Lan Chang''an remained calm and followed the maid into the backyard of the September Building.


    A youngdy in a long turquoise dress, graceful and jade-like, was tending to the flowers.


    From the side, one could see Mu Xiuyun''s dark eyebrows like distant mountains, a typical eastern beauty''s profile.


    "You can draw basic talismans? What''s your sess rate?" Mu Xiuyun''s voice was like a clear mountain stream as her bright beautiful eyes fell on Lan Chang''an.


    "For basic talismans, my sess rate is sixty percent," Lan Chang''an was not overly modest.


    For those with decent talisman talent, basic talismans were easy to learn.


    "Sixty percent?" Mu Xiuyun did not ask further. She took out a set of talisman drawing materials and ced them on the table, gesturing for Lan Chang''an to demonstrate.


    Lan Chang''an did not stand on ceremony either. He picked up the talisman brush, prepared the cinnabar ink, and neatly drew three basic talismans.


    Two were sessful, one failed.


    With Lan Chang''an''s previous life''s third-rank talisman master attainments, deceiving a first-rank talisman master was naturally easy.


    Mu Xiuyun nodded: "Good talent."


    "By the way, I nearly seeded in refining a first-rank low-grade talismanst time," Lan Chang''an added with seeming regret.


    "A first-rank talisman, you nearly seeded?" Mu Xiuyun couldn''t help but be moved, her starry eyes seemed to have fluorescent light flowing through them.


    "Yes, just a little bit away from seeding."


    "Draw one for me to see."


    "Okay."


    Lan Chang''an picked up the talisman brush again.


    Mu Xiuyun gently moved closer, observing by his side, her dark fragrance trailing and a faint fragrance wafting from her sleeves.


    Shhh!


    When Lan Chang''an drew about seven or eight tenths of the first-rank talisman, his spiritual sense suddenly broke off, and a wisp of blue smoke rose from the talisman paper.


    "Your manacked precision and could not be sustained," Mu Xiuyunmented.


    "Thank you for your guidance, Miss," Lan Chang''an acted as if greatly honored.


    "This book ''Nine Essentials of the Talisman Path'' is a gift for you. Study it carefully when you return. If you have any questions, you cane and ask me."


    Mu Xiuyun took out a book from her storage bag.


    Lan Chang''an epted the kindness and thanked her again.


    "By the way, Miss. If I be a first-rank talisman master, can I freely cultivate the talisman path in the Mu family, without needing to take a wife and have children?"


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''anid it out inly.


    He felt that the Mu family''s youngdy seemed like a good person, graceful and beautiful, gentle and considerate, and appeared to sincerely want to cultivate the talisman path.


    Mu Xiuyun showed a hint of surprise, pondering: "When you be a first-rank talisman master, I will speak for you before my father."


    "Thank you for your trouble, Miss." Lan Chang''an cupped his hands in salute and left.


    Watching his departing back, Mu Xiuyun pondered for a moment, her red lips slightly pursed:


    "Even without me, the Mu family will have a decent person to take charge in the talisman path in the future."


    ...


    After returning, Lan Chang''an did not n to seek guidance from Mu Xiuyun.


    Although doing so would make it more reasonable for him to be a first-rank talisman master, and bring him closer to the youngdy.


    "If not necessary, it''s best to have less dealings with a beauty like Mu Xiuyun."


    Lan Chang''an understood the principle that beautiful women bring cmity.


    An outsider in the early Qi-Refining stage getting too close to the youngdy would only invite trouble.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    The meditating Lan Chang''an suddenly looked towards the neighboring courtyard, sensing an unstable fluctuation of mana.


    "This brat! Even after taking a wife and having children, his cultivation surprisingly hasn''t fallen much." Lan Chang''an murmured to himself.


    In the neighboring courtyard, Li Ergou was the first to advance to the thirdyer of Qi-Refining. Li Ergou was simple-minded, and with the rewards and resources from the Mu family to nurture him, his cultivation progressed smoothly.


    The Earth Rock Scripture that Li Ergou cultivated was not particrly powerful, but as long as he cultivated diligently and was given sufficient resources, he would be able to advance rtively quickly.


    A few dayster.


    After consolidating his realm, the delighted Li Ergou came running to visit Lan Chang''an''s ce.


    Lan Chang''an had put up a "Closed for Cultivation" que in advance, causing Li Ergou to leave in frustration, without being able to show off.


    "Counting back, it has been almost four years since I came to the Mu family." Lan Chang''an thought inside his room, his mind calm like water, with any slight restlessness passing away with the the wind.


    He did not be unsettled just because Ergou had surpassed him.


    "It''s worthy of being a cultivation technique that cultivates the temperament and spirit."


    The state of mind was very important in the middle andte stages of cultivation.


    The Evergreen Technique had beneficial effects in this aspect, which was precious. It might help with the tribtion of heart demons at the Nascent Soul Realm.


    ...


    One yearter.


    Apanied by a trace of the Qi of the ages, the Evergreen mana within Lan Chang''an flourished with a lush verdant intent.


    "Five years of time, the thirdyer of Qi-Refining!" A slight ripple arose in Lan Chang''an''s heart, but it quickly calmed like still water.


    Five years from the first to the thirdyer of Qi-Refining was considered normal for an ordinary low-grade spiritual root.


    Butpared to his meteoric progress in his previous life, it was far behind.


    There was also another important factor - age!


    Lan Chang''an was now twenty-three years old, two years older than Li Ergou and three years older than Zhao Siyu.


    Zhao Siyu was probably already at the fifthyer of Qi-Refining by now.


    "A twenty-three year old at the thirdyer of Qi-Refining, by conventional evaluation, has limited future potential."


    "But I am cultivating the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, which prolongs my life for twenty years at the early stage of Qi-Refining, giving me a lifespan of one hundred and forty years, and at thete stage of Qi Refining, my lifespan is as much as one hundred and eighty years."


    Perhaps because the cultivation technique absorbed the Qi of the ages, Lan Chang''an could sense his own longevity.


    Compared to a hundred and eighty years, twenty-three years old was still a youthful age, with a long future ahead.


    Bloop!


    Lan Chang''an extended a finger to draw a water mirror towards him, in which the reflection showed a fair-skinned, handsome and gentle youth with jet ck eyes.


    Coupled with the white robe, he had the air of a peerless noble. The calluses on his hands from martial training were also gone.


    "Is this the rejuvenating effect of the Evergreen Technique, or is it the incerase in lifespan?" Lan Chang''an looked almost identical to five years ago, his skin even more delicate.


    He silently circted the Evergreen Technique, filling his body with an aura like rotten wood, making his formerly jade-likeplexion less apparent.


    After consolidating his realm and leaving seclusion,


    The first thing Lan Chang''an did was sell first-rank talismans!


    At the thirdyer of Qi-Refining, he was now a first-rank talisman master!


    ...


    Initially, members of the Mu family held doubts.


    But soon after, under Mu Xiuyun''s personal examination, Lan Chang''an sessfully refined a first-rank fire talisman.


    Lan Chang''an''s identity as a first-rank talisman master was officially confirmed.


    ...


    "That kid... became a first-rank talisman master?"


    On Moonheart Ind, in a quiet room, the cross-legged Mu Maode looked at the note in his hand, somewhat caught off guard.


    The five-year agreement with Lan Chang''an was about to expire.


    Mu Maode was preparing to pressure Lan Chang''an into taking a wife and having children in the Mu family.


    Unexpectedly, Lan Chang''an had now be a talisman master, disrupting his arrangements.


    The talisman path, although not as prestigious as pill refining or artifact forging, still ranked high among the hundreds of arts of cultivation.


    A first-rank talisman master in his early twenties was a rare talent, enough for the Mu family to extend an olive branch.


    Mu Maode felt a headacheing on. How should he handle Lan Chang''an now?

 Chapter 15: The Brewing Storm

    Chapter 15: The Brewing Storm


    Lan Chang''an''s five-year agreement with Mu Maode had already expired.


    After bing a first-rank talisman master, Lan Chang''an nned to discuss the terms with the Mu family.


    However, half a month passed and neither Mu Maode nor the Mu family elders made a statement.


    But on this day,


    Mu Xiuyun''s maid came with word that the youngdy had invited him out to discuss the talisman dao.


    The location was the Willow Pavilion by Fenyue Lake.


    "Miss My has invited me?"


    To be honest, Lan Chang''an did not want to get too close to Mu Xiuyun.


    Especially a private rendezvous between a lone man and lone woman could easily arouse suspicion....


    Half an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an arrived at the willow-shaded shores of Fenyue Lake, where a nearly overhanging pavilion building came into view.


    "So this is the Willow Pavilion?" Lan Chang''an nced at the que.


    "Master Lan, please go up to the third floor."


    A crisp, melodious girl''s voice drifted down from the pavilion above.


    The third floor of the pavilion was like a sky garden, facing the brilliant waves of Fenyue Lake.


    Lan Chang''an had thought this would be a private tryst but the facts proved he had thought too much. Besides the inly-dressed, gentle and elegant Mu Xiuyun, there was also a blue-robed youngdy with an exquisite melon-seed face, willow brows and almond eyes, with a charming, radiant beauty.


    Lan Chang''an felt she looked familiar.


    He soon recalled that this was the red-robed girl beside Mu Xiuyun the first time he went to Nine September Building.


    "This is Mu Yinn, you''ve met her before." Mu Xiuyun smiled and introduced her.


    Lan Chang''an had heard Li Ergou talk about Mu Yinn.


    This girl had quite a reputation. Among the Mu family''s young female disciples with spiritual roots, her looks and bearing were second only to Mu Xiuyun.


    "Master Lan." Mu Yinn gave a curtsy, her voice soft and gentle.


    "Miss Mu."


    Lan Chang''an returned the courtesy, feeling puzzled in his heart.


    Thest time they met, two or three years ago, Mu Yinn had not shown him a good attitude. This time, it was as if she was a different person.


    Dressed up elegantly, gentle and charming.


    Noticing Lan Chang''an''s probing gaze, Mu Yinn''s fair face blushed slightly.


    However, she was not the type to be a little housewife, her bright eyes boldly looked towards Lan Chang''an.


    Meeting again today, her attitude waspletely different.


    Mu Yinn''s almond eyes brightened.


    Not only was Lan Chang''an handsome, but he had a special temperament - aloof and serene, making people feelfortable.


    In recent days, after pressure from the family elders and persuasion from her senior sister Xiuyun, Mu Yinn had reluctantly agreed.


    Seeing him today, she felt he was not bad at all.


    Although his cultivation was not outstanding, as a young talisman master he was handsome and refined, truly talented and attractive.


    "Master Lan, I left an ancient talisman manual downstairs, I''lle back up shortly."


    Mu Xiuyun apologized and hurried downstairs.


    Left alone were just Lan Chang''an and Mu Yinn.


    Even if Lan Chang''an was slow, he should understand now.


    "Master Lan, Yinn will brew tea for you."


    Mu Yinn smiled sweetly, her fair skin and long legs gliding gracefully as she busied herself.


    Lan Chang''an wanted to say something but stopped, until Mu Yinn brought him a cup of clear tea with an expectant look on her face.


    Blowing away the steam, Lan Chang''an took a light sip.


    "Master Lan, how do you maintain yourself so well? Do you have a secret method?"


    Mu Yinn asked curiously, blinking her eyes.


    Lab Chang''an was in his twenties but still had the appearance of a youth, his skin translucent and wless.


    Among cultivators, some possessed age-defying arts, a topic of great interest to female cultivators.


    "Perhaps it''s because my state of mind is good, and I cultivate a wood-type skill?"


    Lan Chang''an was well-prepared for such questions.


    This was not the mundane world - having an ageless appearance was not strange in the cultivation world, so he did not need to worry about being taken for dissection.


    Besides longevity pills, many techniques had age-defying effects, especially wood-type techniques.


    The rtivelymon Ancient Wood Technique was about 70-80% simr to the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique.


    For nourishing life and preserving youth, their power was mediocre.


    Even if Lan Chang''an deliberately exuded mana, the feeling he gave off was just that of an ordinary wood-type technique.


    Mu Yinn''s bright eyes sparkled, intending to use this topic for deeper conversation.


    "Miss Mu, please excuse me, I have an urgent matter."


    Lan Chang''an smiled apologetically and hurriedly left.


    "Urgent matter?"


    Mu Yinn was stunned.


    Her pretty face immediately flushed red, her bosom heaving irregrly.


    Lan Chang''an had obviously made an excuse to leave.


    "This Lan fellow! Who does he think he is looking down on? I did you a favor bying here!"


    Mu Yinn was deeply angered.


    She had originally looked down on Lan Chang''an.


    Only after pressure from the family and Lan Chang''an bing a talisman master did she reluctantly agree to Senior Sister Xiuyun''s matchmaking attempt.


    Her immensely proud temper red up!


    Crash!


    The tea cup shattered, the table and chairs splintered into pieces.


    Hearing the noise from downstairs, Lan Chang''an quickened his pace and fled from the Willow Pavilion in a sh.


    "Why? Does he not wish to marry a Mu family girl?"


    The inly-dressed Mu Xiuyun stood at the second-floor window, pondering in puzzlement.


    At Lan Chang''an''s age and potential, there was little hope for the Foundation Establishment. As an orphan, he should not be so averse to marrying into the family. He might look down on mortal women, but Mu Yinn had a spiritual root and great looks, with nock of pursuers.


    If he married Mu Yinn, Lan Chang''an could receive nurturing from the family - techniques, pills, guidance from the elders - his future would be smooth sailing.


    "Sister Xiuyun, it''s not that this girl didn''t cooperate. That Lan fellow must not be interested in women."


    Mu Yinn came over fuming.


    "Not interested in women?"


    Mu Xiuyun was astonished. Could this be the real reason?


    But recalling her two or three encounters with Lan Chang''an,


    When facing her, he would asionally reveal a subtle appreciation for beauty.


    As a woman, she had a keen intuition about this.


    "He pisses me off! That Lan is older than me but has lower cultivation, yet he dares insult me like this."


    Mu Yinn could barely swallow her resentment, growing more upset the more she thought about it.


    "Don''t do anything rash!"


    Mu Xiuyun''s starry eyes narrowed in warning.


    Mu Yinn was at the fourthyer of Qi-Refining. If she was bent on revenge, Lan Chang''an would likely suffer.


    "I''m not that stupid! Lan Chang''an is a first-rank talisman master. If I make a move against him, the elders will severely punish me."


    "I, Mu Yinn, vow to find a man ten times stronger than him, so he can only look up to him in the future!"


    ...


    "The Mu family really went to great lengths to try recruiting me as a son-inw."


    Returning to his courtyard residence, Lan Chang''an felt somewhat wry amusement.


    The Mu family''s "matchmaking" efforts had ended in failure.


    Fortunately, the Mu family did not insist forcefully. After all, a twisted melon is not sweet.


    Several dayster,


    Family head Mu Maode personally summoned Lan Chang''an for half an hour of discussion.


    The two sides smoothly reached an agreement.


    Going forward, Lan Chang''an would not marry a Mu family girl, but could still enjoy the normal treatment of a family member.


    He would receive a certain quota of spirit rice, pills, and other supplies each year.


    Of course, he would have to fulfill obligations by refining a certain number of talisman papers for the Mu family annually.


    The Mu family would provide the materials, and with Lan Chang''an''s attainments in the talisman dao, he could only profit in this deal.


    In this way, Lan Chang''an officially took up residence at Fenyue Mountain Vi, beginning a new phase of his cultivation journey.


    ...


    Three years shed by in the blink of an eye.


    Inside the private courtyard.


    The Evergreen mana within Lan Chang''an circted through his limbs and body, carrying an endless, azure aura of renewal.


    "Eight years."


    Lan Chang''an felt amazed at how quickly time had passed - he had been with the Mu family for eight years already.


    Through these years of observation.


    In the cycle of the seasons, the power of the Evergreen Technique was growing, but at an extremely slow pace.


    At least, it was slightly stronger thanmon skills like the Origin-Opening Scripture or Earth Rock Scripture.


    It really did seem that the longer one lived, the stronger one''s spiritual power became!


    In thest three years of cultivation, Lan Chang''an had crossed over half of the thirdyer of Qi-Refining. He estimated that in another year, he would reach the peak of the thirdyer. During the Qi-Refining stage, he had no bottlenecks to ovee.


    Cultivating to the peak of the thirdyer was equivalent to the time required to break into the fourthyer of Qi-Refining, in other words, going from the third to the fourthyer would take four years of time.


    Meanwhile, Li Ergou next door had reached the peak of the thirdyer half a year ago, the reason he had not broken through was because of the existence of the bottleneck.


    Going from the third to the fourthyer, entering the middle stage of Qi-Refining, was a major hurdle.


    With Li Ergou''s ordinary talent, how easy could it be to break through?


    Either he had to slowly grind away over time, or rely on bottleneck-breaking pills, such bottleneck pills were quite rare in the Mu family and required to exchange for them.


    merit contributions


    ...


    "Big brother Lan, let''s go hunt some birds!" Li Ergou shouted from outside in the early evening.


    "Why are you hollering so happily? You haven''t caught a single bird these past few days." Lan Chang''an teased. Since he had nothing to do anyway,


    "Alright, I''ll go y around with you today."


    "Awesome! With Big brother Lan on the hunt, we''re sure to bag something tonight." Li Ergou was overjoyed.


    The "birds" they spoke of referred to a type of "fish hawk" that had recently been guing Fenyue Lake.


    These fish hawks were semi-spirit beasts cultivated inter ages, specialized in eating the spirit fish of Fenyue Lake. They had caused the spirit fish poption in theke to sharply decline. Rumor had it that these fish hawks were products of the "Beast Taming Zhou family".


    In his eight years of cultivation with the Mu family, Lan Chang''an sensed a sign ofing instability. This stemmed from the enmity between the Mu family and the Zheng family. Ten years ago, the two cultivation family hade to blows over the ownership of a first-grade purple copper mine, with both sides'' Foundation Establishment patriarchs being injured.


    Later, one of the seven major families, the Beast Taming Zhou family intervened to mediate a truce, having the two family''s split the discovered purple copper mine.


    As the arbitrator, the Beast Taming Zhou family took 30% of the proceeds.


    Some time ago.


    Underneath the first-rank purple copper mine, it was suspected that the apanying "purple heart copper" was found, which is an excellent material for refining top-grade magic weapons.


    The two families, at peace for years, took up arms again and deployed more personnel to the mine region.


    Over the past two years, at some unknown cost, the Zheng family had secured support from one branch of the Beast Taming Zhou family, selling many of their spirit beasts. The fish hawks were one such product.


    Although the fish hawks did not threaten Qi-Refining cultivators, with their ability to fly and dive underwater, they secretly hunted the spirit fish of Fenyue Lake every night.


    The Zheng family employed such tricks in an attempt to divert the Mu family''s attention to the rear areas. Their true goal was still the "purple heart copper" from the mines.


    To counter the harassment from the fish hawks, the Mu family issued a bounty for family members who killed the fish hawks in exchange for contribution points.


    Li Ergou struggled to umte contribution points to exchange for bottleneck-breaking pills. That was why he actively went "bird hunting".


    ...


    "The apanying purple heart copper, the fish hawk harassment...the conflict between the Mu and Zheng family may escte."


    On the way to Fenyue Lake, Lan Chang''an''s gaze was deep.


    "Let''s wait and see! A rxed, harmonious ce for cultivation like the Mu family is not easy to find."


    "If the Mu family''s Foundation Establishment patriarchs cannot withstand it, or are killed, I will definitely have to run away."


    Li Ergou remained unaware that his most trusted Big Brother Lan Chang''an beside him was contemting a n to flee. <ul> <li>Your feedback and ratings are greatly appreciated. If you have a moment, please consider rating this novel on Novelupdates.</li> <li>Should you notice any errors in this chapter, kindly mention them in thements below so I can correct them. Thank you!</li> </ul>

 Chapter 16: The Situation Takes a Drastic Turn

    Chapter 16: The Situation Takes a Drastic Turn


    Every night, there were no shortage of Mu family cultivatorsing to Fenyue Lake to "hunt birds".


    Mostly young cultivators in the early stages of Qi-Refining.


    The Mu family''s capable adult cultivators were mostly stationed at the purple copper mine.


    The fish hawks at their doorstep were only semi-spirit beasts, posing little threat to Qi-Refining cultivators.


    This low-risk task that could earn contribution points was dly taken up by family members, including some mortal martial artists.


    However, these semi-spirit fish hawks were not easy to catch.


    First, the shores of Fenyue Lake spanned hundreds of miles, and there were a limited number of cultivators, making it impossible to fully guard everywhere.


    The fish hawks possessed a degree of spiritual intelligence and only acted during night.


    Second, the fish hawks could both fly and dive underwater skillfully, with better eyesight than humans.Although the fish hawks were no match for Qi-Refining cultivators, they only targeted the spirit fish in theke.


    Human cultivators would be detected by the fish hawks before getting close, making it difficult to catch them whether in the air or underwater.


    "Let''s split up to search."


    Lan Chang''an paused at thekeside and suggested.


    "Okay! Let''s see who catches a bird first."


    Li Ergou was full of enthusiasm, plunging into theke water with a "plop".


    "No wonder he can''t catch any birds."


    Lan Chang''an did not enter the water, instead using a lightbody technique to circle around the shores of Fenyue Lake.


    asionally, he would stop to observe the reedy areas by the water''s edge.


    With several hundred years of experience across two lifetimes, Lan Chang''an understood a little about the art of tracking.


    Afterpleting a circle, Lan Chang''an stopped under a shaded tree by thekeside.


    Leaning against the trunk, he cycled the Evergreen Technique, suppressing his aura. His presence was greatly reduced, as if he had be an extension of the tree''s branches.


    Half an hourter.


    In the night, a brown-gray waterfowl with a thick neck and pointed beak silently descended from the sky.


    This fish hawk looked around, preparing to dive into the water.


    Swish! Smack!


    A stone shot through the air like a thunderbolt, striking the fish hawk''s belly.


    The fish hawk screeched as its belly exploded in a bloody hole, falling into theke.


    "One."


    Lan Chang''an walked on the water, picking up the fish hawk''s corpse.


    Using a water purification technique, he rinsed away the blood, sealed the body in a bag, and stored it in his storage pouch.


    After finishing all this, Lan Chang''an changed locations again. Continuing to lie in wait like a fox stalking rabbits. Over the course of the night, Lan Chang''an caught four fish hawks. Li Ergou got nothing.


    "Big Brother Lan, can you give me some pointers?" Regarding hunting birds, Ergou waspletely convinced of Lan Chang''an''s expertise.


    "Can you do these three things?"


    "First, analyze the fish hawks'' living habits to find the best ambush spots."


    "Second, can your hiding spot evade the fish hawks'' eyes?"


    "Third, can you attack fast, urately, and lethally in one decisive strike?"


    After hearing the three points, Li Ergou felt utterly dejected.


    Leaving aside whether he could do the first two. In recent days when he luckily encountered fish hawks, his casting speed and uracy were so poor that by the time heunched a fireball, the fish hawks had already fled far away.


    Lan Chang''an dealt with the fish hawks byunching his concealed weapon with the martial art me Flick without aura fluctuations.


    Over the next few days, every night Lan Chang''an could hunt down a few fish hawks.


    The rumors of an "bird hunting expert" had just started spreading¡­when Lan Chang''an withdrew andy low.


    This kind of low-risk, high-reward activity was fine to do asionally. Lan Chang''an feared that if he kept it up, he might provoke enmity from thosemanding the fish hawks.


    ...


    Each fish hawk could be exchanged for five contribution points. In just a few days of work, Lan Chang''an had exchanged over a hundred points.


    "Adding the hundred contribution points I earned from extra talisman drawing over the past two years, I''ve umted over two hundred total. Enough to exchange for better quality magic weapons at the Refining Pavilion."


    After returning to the family, Lan Chang''an calcted in his mind. Now that the dispute between the two cultivation families had resurfaced, it was important to prepare for the worst, to strengthen his self-defense capabilities.


    Previously, when Li Ergou wanted to buy fish hawk corpses from Lan Chang''an to earn contribution points for bottleneck-breaking pills.


    Lan Chang''an had refused. While he and Li Ergou were good friends, it wasn''t to the point of being parents.


    Since bing a talisman master, over the past three years Lan Chang''an had lived quitefortably in the Mu family. For the talisman drawing materials the Mu family provided him annually, he maintained a normal level of quality and sess rate on the surface. Any excess materials became additional ie for him. Every few months, Lan Chang''an would go to September Building to sell some talismans.


    His financial situation steadily improved.


    Now, Lan Chang''an had saved two to three hundred spirit stones.


    This was because Lan Chang''an was cautious, fearing drawing too much attention. He had quite a stockpile of unsold talismans in his storage pouch that he had not fully liquidated.


    ...


    Time rolled to the middle of the month again.


    With ample funds, Lan Chang''an went to September Building.


    September Building was just a small-scale trading venue within the family, not a high-end ce. One could not buy mid-grade magic weapons there. For mid-grade magic weapons, one had to go to the family''s Refining Pavilion and exchange contribution points.


    Lan Chang''an spent a long time browsing at September Building before purchasing two rtively good low-grade magic weapons. One was a "Dark Gold de" and the other was "Seven Ingenious Needles".


    The Dark Gold de was a standard offensive magic weapon made of a durable material, considered a fine product among the low-grade weapons.


    The Seven Ingenious Needles was a set of seven needle-like artifacts, each as long as a chopstick but much thinner and sharper.


    "Has the family conflict caused magic weapons prices to rise?"


    For these two decent low-grade magic weapons, Lan Chang''an spent over two hundred low-grade spirit stones. Ordinarily, an average low-grade magic weapon would only cost sixty or seventy spirit stones.


    ...


    The next day, Lan Chang''an went to the family''s Refining Pavilion. He spent two hundred contribution points to exchange for a mid-grade defensive magic weapon called the Bedrock Shield.


    The staff managing the Refining Pavilion repeatedly tried to dissuade Lan Chang''an:


    "An early Qi-Refining cultivator will have difficulty controlling a mid-grade magic weapon. With those contribution points, you''d be better off exchanging for bottleneck-breaking pills."


    This staff member made a fair point. Low-grade and middle-grade magic weapons corresponded to the Qi-Refining stage. Superior-grade and top-grade magic weapons corresponded to the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Even at the middle stage of Qi-Refining, one could only control one mid-grade magic weapon or two low-grade magic weapons simultaneously. One''s mana and spiritual doubly limited the restrictions of using a magic weapon.


    Lan Chang''an insisted on exchanging for the mid-grade Bedrock Shield magic weapon, using the excuse that he was saving it forter use.


    In truth, Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense wasparable to thete Qi-Refining stage, sufficient to control a mid-grade magic weapon. However, it could not be used for too long due to the limitation of mana.


    ....


    Purchasing three magic weapon in one go, Lan Chang''an returned and refined them, greatly increasing his sense of security.


    The handkerchief magic weapon he obtained from killing the Purple Rose Fairy back then had also been refined by Lan Chang''an previously using his mana.


    Besides magic weapons, Lan Chang''an also stockpiled dozens of high-quality talismans! All were mid-grade or superior-grade first-rank talismans.


    Even ate Qi-Refining cultivator would feel uneasy facing so many powerful talismans.


    After finishing storing everything.


    While continuing his cultivation, Lan Chang''an also monitored the situation between the Mu and Zheng family.


    First were the fish hawks.


    Over the past few days, the Zheng family had suddenly recalled the fish hawks. Reportedly, the Zheng family''s losses from the fish hawks were quiterge, making it no longer worthwhile.


    The timing coincided with when Lan Chang''an, the so-called "bird hunting expert", stopped hunting them.


    Next was the situation at the mines.


    The mines were quite distant, located amidst the mountain ranges between the two family''s territories. The information was not very urate.


    Lan Chang''an heard that the two family''s younger cultivators were in a standoff in the mining tunnels, with more than one elder from each side overseeing them.


    ...


    Several dayster,


    Li Ergou brought some good news.


    His second son "Mu Ershun" had been tested and confirmed to possess a low-grade spiritual root.


    Li Ergou was overjoyed. Among that batch of spiritual seedlings, he was the first to produce an offspring with a spiritual root.


    Li Ergou''s eldest son was named Mu Yifan and was already over seven years old, just an ordinary person. His second son Mu Ershun had just turned six.


    He also had a three-year-old third son and a one-year-old daughter.


    "Congrattions!" For this asion, Lan Chang''an even attended Li Ergou''s celebratory banquet.


    "This fellow, he sure is capable." The other spiritual seedlings in attendance felt quite bitter about it.


    Not long after, Li Ergou received a reward from the family head. A Pure Qi Pill - exactly the bottleneck-breaking pill he had dreamed of.


    Being the first to produce an offspring, and the first to have an offspring with a spiritual root, Li Ergou reaped the rewards from both.


    "This kid''s luck is truly not bad." Lan Chang''an felt moved.


    He had originally thought that since Li Ergou was held back by a bottleneck, he would use his advantage of re-cultivation to reach the middle stage of Qi-Refining first.


    ...


    Ten dayster.


    Li Ergou emerged from seclusion, having advanced to the fourthyer of Qi-Refining, bing one of the younger middle Qi-Refining cultivators in the family.


    The newly advanced Li Ergou was full of vigor and confidence. He held another banquet celebration.


    Those other spiritual seedlings felt vexed, having to bring gifts again. But they did not dare offend Li Ergou either. At the middle Qi-Refining stage, he was now a major figure in the family.


    At the banquet, Li Ergou announced one matter.


    He would be changing his name to "Li Changqing". This new name seemed inspired by Lan Chang''an''s.


    Being at the middle Qi-Refining stage, the vulgar name "Ergou" (meaning "second dog") was rather unbing. Everyone understood Li Ergou''s thoughts.


    "Li Changqing..."Lan Chang''an found it hard to get used to Ergou''s sudden name change.


    "Big Brother Lan, how do you like my new name?" The newly named Li Ergou was exhrated, drinking heavily and getting quite drunk.


    During the banquet, Lan Chang''an wanted to speak up but held back. He had intended to tell Li Ergou that immortal cultivator''s real name and dao names could not be changed casually. This involved matters of luck and even fate.


    Some names resonated harmoniously with the cultivator, like a fish in water. Names that didn''t fit would have conflicting destinies.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    "Big Brother Lan..." Li came over, wailing loudly.


    Lan Chang''an was rmed: "What happened?"


    After inquiring, Lan Chang''an learned some bad news.


    Over at the mining area, the Mu family and Zheng family had shed, suffering significant casualties. The Mu family urgently needed to replenish their manpower and was conscripting younger capable cultivators from the family. Targeting primarily those of the middle Qi-Refining stage.


    Unluckily, Li had just recently advanced to the fourthyer of Qi-Refining and was drafted by the family.


    "Big Brother Lan! If I die, I hope you can help look after my wife and children..."


    Li begged through his tears and snot.

 Chapter 17: Guarding the Herb Garden

    Chapter 17: Guarding the Herb Garden


    Who could have imagined that Li Ergou, previously so full of vigor, would now be overwhelmed with sorrow.


    Lan Chang''an sighed at the impermanence of life.


    Even when one is at the height of glory, one must never be arrogant.


    "You don''t need to be so pessimistic," said Lan Chang''an.


    "Big brother Lan, I know my ownbat ability. Going to the front line mining area, life and death is uncertain," said Li Ergou bitterly.


    He had no confidence in returning alive, which was why he sought out his most trusted person Lan Chang''an to entrust his will.


    "Actually, you have one advantage."


    "What advantage?" Li Ergou was puzzled.


    "You have a clear self-awareness and know your own strengths."Li Ergoucked courage, was weak inbat, and had no real battle experience.


    "Big brother Lan, it''se to this point, and you''re still mocking me?"


    "For you, this may not be a bad thing for survival."


    "Cultivators fear overconfidence the most, arrogantly looking down on their peers and disregarding ordinary cultivators. Many talented cultivators have capsized in the ditch due to carelessness," Lan Chang''an sighed, taking out two talismans from his storage bag and handing them to Li Ergou.


    "These are healing and wind speed talismans, big brother can only help you up to this point."


    After all, they had known each other for eight long years. Perhaps this would be thest time he saw Li Ergou.


    Lan Chang''an was not too stingy, giving him two middle-grade talismans. Nowdays, in the Mu family, he was considered a senior first-rank talisman master, asionally refining mid-grade talismans.


    "Thank you, big brother," Li Ergou epted the talismans, still looking at Lan Chang''an expectantly.


    "Alright, I promise you," Lan Chang''an sighed. "If it reallyes to that, I will do what I can to provide some care for your wife and children."


    Only then did Li Ergou break into a smile, a heavy weight lifted from his heart.


    Before parting, he couldn''t help but ask:


    "Big brother Lan, should I not have changed my name?"


    Before changing his name, Li Ergou had smooth sailing and knew no troubles.


    But after changing his name to "Li Changqing", he had one foot in the abyss.


    "Destiny, fortune, profound mysteries - who can truly understand?" Lan Chang''an shook his head, unable to answer.


    After all, in his previous life, he was merely at the Core Formation Realm, not a great cultivator. There were too many things in the cultivation world that he could notprehend.


    ...


    The next day, Li Ergou left Feiyue Vi, following the young and middle-aged cultivators of the family to the Purple Copper Mining Area.


    Lan Chang''an watched his departing back.


    After pondering for a long time, he looked towards the center of Purple Moon Lake, where the outline of the "Moonheart Ind" was faintly visible.


    That was where the Foundation Establishment Ancestor of the Mu family resided.


    Lan Chang''an''s soul was extraordinary, and he was also able to let the soul brand that was lit up in the first life of the Nine Seal Stele add to it, raising his spiritual sense by one level.


    He could sense that the Mu family''s ancestral patriarch was still present, but his aura was growing weaker by the day.


    Years ago in Jin Yun Valley, Lin Yi had inquired about rumors, saying that the Mu family''s Ancestor would not live more than ten years.


    ording to Lan Chang''an''s remote perception, the estimation wasn''t far off, probably three to five years remaining.


    This judgment was not solely based on his soul sense, but also the keen perception of the aura of time and longevity from the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique.


    Lan Chang''an''s bottom line was that as long as this Foundation Establishment Ancestor could remain stable, he would maintain a wait-and-see approach and not rush to leave.


    "But in three to five years, if the Mu family does not produce a new Foundation Establishment cultivator, they will definitely not be able to protect the second-grade spiritual vein. At that time..."


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his gaze, silently nning several contingencies in his heart.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    No news came from Li Ergou at the front lines.


    Since the mining area was quite distant, as an outsider, Lan Chang''an received rtively limited information.


    However, there were asional injured cultivators returning, while younger Mu family cultivators were sent to the front lines. The tense situation eventually affected Lan Chang''an.


    "Go and guard the herb garden?"


    On this day, as Lan Chang''an was handing over a batch of talismans, he received an arrangement from the higher-ups of the Mu family.


    With his cultivation not even reaching the middle stage of Qi-Refining, the family would not send him to the front lines unless absolutely necessary as a talisman master. But apart from the mining frontline, the Mu family also had some assets that needed guarding. Such as the herb garden, spirit fields, and water resources.


    The Mu family had an herb garden located in a mountain valley two hundred miles away from Purple Moon Manor. Since it was rtively close to the family''s residence, guarding the herb garden wasparatively safer.


    "The herb garden is located on a spiritual ground with a spirit-gathering formation. You can cultivate and make talismans there, while also helping the family guard the herb garden." The family steward leading Lan Chang''an to the herb garden exined.


    Lan Chang''an had no reason to refuse. Since Li Ergou had gone to the frontlines, it was reasonable for him to do some logistical work in the herb garden.


    Due to the short distance, Lan Chang''an rode his ck golden de and flew directly to the herb garden. He was apanied by two or three young Mu family cultivators at around the secondyer of Qi-Refining.


    The mountain valley where the herb garden was located had a natural energy formation that gathered the essence of the sun and moon, suitable for growing medicinal herbs. The entire herb garden spanned thousands of acres, protected by a first-grade formation.


    Apart from the divided nting areas, there was a small vige-like area with houses built near a stream in the herb garden.


    Upon entering the herb garden, each person was assigned a separate wooden cabin.


    The conditions were definitely not as good as Purple Moon Manor.


    "Lan Chang''an."


    Hearing someone call his name, Lan Chang''an turned to look. It was a one-armed youth with a familiar face, his body wrapped in bandages in several ces.


    "Mu Yunfei?" Lan Chang''an recalled the identity from the handsome youth''s face.


    Eight years ago, Mu Yunfei had escorted their group of spirit seedlings back home and distributed spirit stones to them along the way.


    The two were considered to have fought side by side before.


    Back then, with his firstyer of Qi-Refining cultivation, Lan Chang''an had killed a Zheng family cultivator at the thirdyer of Qi-Refining, earning Mu Yunfei''s praise.


    "Brother Yunfei, your arm, could it be from the frontline mining area..."


    Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised.


    "Yes, I need to recuperate for a year. The family master asked me to also look after the herb garden in the meantime. After all, this is an important location for the family, and the elder who previously guarded it has gone to the front lines." Mu Yunfei''s voice was low and slightly hoarse. He was no longer the family''s rising star from eight years ago.


    Mu Yunfei was two years older than Lan Chang''an, at the peak of the sixthyer of Qi-Refining, considered one of the family''s young elites.


    Lan Chang''an thought silently: "Even the injured are being deployed on duty. It seems the Mu family is reallycking manpower."


    ...


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an had adapted to life in the herb garden.


    The spiritual energy in the herb garden could notpare to Purple Moon Manor.


    However, the rich spiritual essence of nts and trees hereplemented Lan Chang''an''s cultivation of the wood-based Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique. Therefore, his cultivation speed was no slower than at the Feiyue Manor which had a first-grade spiritual brance underneath it.


    During these days, Lan Chang''an became familiar with Mu Yunfei and inquired about the situation at the front line mining area.


    Deep within that Purple Copper Mining Area, they had indeed discovered deposits of the "Purple Heart Copper".


    Purple Heart Copper was not included in the original agreement between the two families to evenly split the resources.


    Moreover, the distribution of Purple Heart Copper was very scattered and the quantity was rtively small, making it easy to hoard privately.


    Nowadays, cultivators from both families were using their own means to mine the Purple Heart Copper, asionally resulting in conflicts.


    "Didn''t the Beast Taming Zhou Family, who acted as the adjudicator back then, step in to stop this?" Lan Chang''an curiously asked Mu Yunfei.


    "The Beast Taming Zhou Family?" Mu Yunfei sneered. "They''re clearly biased towards the Zheng Family! A pair of Zheng Family''s spiritual root bearing sisters married the young master of one of the lineages of the Zhou family."


    The Beast Taming Zhou Family, as one of the seven great families, had an Core Formation Realm residing in the family, with nearly ten Foundation Establishment cultivators. Their forces were vast, and the branching factions within the family were also ratherplicated.


    Fortunately, it was only one of their branches that was being pulled in by the Zheng Family, otherwise the Mu Family would have to directly surrender.


    The reason Mu Yunfei said the Zhou Family was biased was because the Zheng Family had more young and middle-aged cultivators, and their ancestor still had twenty to thirty years of lifespan remaining in a better state.


    If the Zhou Family did not uphold fairness, with such a protracted attrition, the Zheng Family would have the opportunity to gradually encroach and swallow up the Mu Family''s assets.


    "You don''t have to worry, my Mu family and the Maple Leaf Huang family are liaising, there is a possibility of a joint marriage. The Huang Family has three Foundation Establishment cultivators and are a very powerful force."


    Seeming to notice Lan Chang''an''s concern, Mu Yunfei revealed this information.


    "The Maple Leaf Huang Family, join marriage?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered thoughtfully.


    It seemed both the Zheng and Mu Families were trying to rally powerful allies.


    ...


    "Be nimble with your hands and feet! Pluck those Misty Orchid herbs, Master Ge is waiting to refine pills."


    On this day, as Lan Chang''an was chatting with Mu Yunfei, an impatient raspy voice came from the herb field area not far away.


    "Who is that?" Lan Chang''an nced towards an old man in an ancient robe with puffy eye bags in the distance. He had not noticed before that there was actually a seventhyer Qi-Refining elder in the herb garden.


    "That''s the pill refiner ''Ge Yi'', one of the four guest elders of the family. Since we urgently need spirit pills recently, Elder Ge has been staying at the herb garden for easier ess to materials for refining pills." Mu Yunfei introduced with respect shown on his face.


    It dawned on Lu Chang''an that it was a Senior Alchemist, no wonder he had such a fierce temper, barking orders at a few young Mu Family cultivators likemanding his grandsons.


    After Pill Refiner Ge left, Mu Yunfei lowered his voice and said: "Elder Ge has a bad temper, you should be careful around him and not provoke him. Elder Ge is an old acquaintance of the old ancestor, even the family head has to defer to him to some extent."


    "Thank you for the reminder, Brother Yunfei."


    Lan Chang''an nodded.


    He was at the herb garden to assist in the defense and cultivate low-profile. He did not need to interact with Elder Ge.


    ...


    Being in the rear area of the herb garden, it remained peaceful without any disturbances.


    Lan Chang''an cultivated calmly there for over half a year.


    On this day, as he sat cross-legged in his room, absorbing the spiritual essence of nts and trees through his cultivation, Lan Chang''an suddenly opened his jet-ck eyes.


    "The peak of the thirdyer of Qi-Refining."


    Since he was re-cultivating, he basically had no bottlenecks in the Qi-Refining stage. This meant he could advance to the middle stage of Qi-Refining at any time.

 Chapter 18: Pill Refiner Ge Yi

    Chapter 18: Pill Refiner Ge Yi


    Lan Chang''an considered whether he should hold back first and not advance to the fourthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Because within the family, the young and middle-aged cultivators at the middle stage of Qi-Refining would mostly be summoned to the front line mining area.


    But after thinking it over, he decided not to hold back.


    Firstly, advancing to the middle stage of Qi-Refining mana would increase significantly. For Lan Chang''an, who was re-cultivating, his strength would rise by arge margin.


    Secondly, this was also a test.


    If even a talented talisman master like himself would be summoned to the front lines, it meant the situation had reached a desperate stage. If that were the case, Lan Chang''an had no reason to remain in the Mu family.


    If he truly wanted to leave, coupled with the methods from his previous life and top quality talismans, it would be difficult for ate stage Qi-Refining cultivator to catch up unless the Foundation Establishment ancestor stepped in.


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an smoothly broke through the bottleneck and advanced to the fourthyer of Qi-Refining. This was the advantage of re-cultivation.


    For an ordinary low-grade or mid-grade spiritual root without bottleneck-breaking pills, being stuck for one to two years, or even three to five years, would be considered normal. Of course, this was just a bottleneck at a minor realm.For a major realm bottleneck like the Foundation Establishment Realm, with Lan Chang''an''s current life aptitude, he would need to rely on Foundation Establishment pills as well to be on the safe side.


    "Twenty-seven years old, fourthyer of Qi-Refining."


    "From eighteen years old, it took two years to reach the secondyer of Qi-Refining; three years to reach the thirdyer; four years to reach the fourthyer..."


    The progression of the Evergreen Technique was indeed quite slow.


    Before he knew it, Lan Chang''an had been cultivating in the Mu family for nine years.


    During this period, he cultivated low-profile and avoided trouble, so he did not encounter any major issues.


    What Lan Chang''an did not know was that Zheng Feng, the ugly woman of the Zheng family, had been trying to take revenge on him all these years. But she never had the opportunity. Because in these nine years, apart from that three-year appointment, Lan Chang''an had never left the Mu family''s residence.


    Zheng Feng was almost driven to internal bleeding from frustration.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an''s breakthrough to a minor realm caused fluctuations in the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, which could not be concealed from the cultivators in the herb garden''s residential area. Unless one went out to find a ce to break through, it was impossible to hide one''s cultivation realm.


    "Congrattions Brother Chang''an on advancing to the middle stage of Qi-Refining." After leaving seclusion, Mu Yunfei was the first to offer congrattions.


    "Brother Yunfei is too kind. At my age, advancing to the fourthyer of Qi-Refining is merely dull mediocrity," Lan Chang''an smiled, not exactly being modest.


    The fourthyer of Qi-Refining at twenty-seven years old meant his potential was considered quite poor, with little chance of establishing a foundation in the future. Normally, one would need to reach thete stage of Qi-Refining before thirty to have a decent hope of establishing a foundation. With Lan Chang''an''s current pace, it was impossible for him to reach the seventhyer of Qi-Refining before thirty. However, he had a lifespan of a hundred and eighty years in the Qi-Refining stage, so there was no need to rush.


    "Brother Chang''an startedte, but your cultivation has always been improving steadily, which is already admirable," said Mu Yunfei, his expression turning slightly gloomy.


    Lan Chang''an could tell that Mu Yunfei had been stuck at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining for many years without being able to advance to thete stage. Compared to Lan Chang''an''s slow but steady progress, this kind of stagnation was truly disheartening.


    "With Brother Yunfei''s tenacity, if you exchange for a bottleneck-breaking pill in the future, you will definitely be able to break through the bottleneck," Lan Chang''an offered a word of constion.


    Bottleneck-breaking pills for thete stage of Qi-Refining were rare in the Mu family, and even those with contributions had to queue up. Moreover, with Mu Yunfei missing an arm, each realm breakthrough in the future would be more difficult than normal.


    ...


    Over the next few days, Lan Chang''an wandered around the herb garden to rx.


    There had been asional battles in the front line mining area for half a year, but luckily it had not escted further. At least, no Foundation Establishment cultivators had appeared. The elders of both families were rtively restrained as well.


    Two months ago, Li Ergou returned to the family to recuperate as an injured cultivator. Li Ergou''s injury was quite peculiar. His leg was broken, but it was not caused by an enemy attack. Instead, he identally broke his leg while retreating from a lost battle. The only truebat injury he sustained was some minor flesh wounds.


    Half a month ago, Li Ergou came to the herb garden specifically to thank Lan Chang''an and pleaded to purchase superior-grade wind speed talismans.


    For ordinary talisman masters, the probability of producing superior-grade talismans was very low, so Lan Chang''an expressed difficulty and said he would sell them if he had any in the future.


    ording to Li Ergou, he was fortunate to have Lan Chang''an''s top-grade wind speed talisman, as its effect exceeded expectations. However, it was also because the speed was too fast that Li Ergou identally broke his leg while retreating back to the main camp.


    Fortunately, Li Ergou gained half a year to recuperate from his injuries, during which he could return to the family to reunite with his wife and children.


    ...


    Half a monthter, a family steward came to the herb garden to summon Mu Yunfei to the front line mining area.


    After a year of recuperation, Mu Yunfei had only recently recovered from his injuries.


    "Take care, Brother Yunfei," Lan Chang''an cupped his hands, feeling a tinge of pity in his heart. His injury had just healed, yet he had to go to the front lines again...


    Mu Yunfei showed no resentment as he prepared to leave with the steward.


    "No need to rush, there''s something I need to announce," the steward said with a smile, his gaze falling on Lan Chang''an.


    "From today onwards, the duty of guarding the herb garden will be taken up by Lan Chang''an."


    "Guarding the herb garden?" Lan Chang''an''s eyelid twitched, not expecting this at all. Why would the Mu family let an outsider like him take up the duty of guarding the herb garden?


    "Lan Chang''an, do not decline. This is the result of the family head overruling all objections," the steward smiled.


    "The family head has a high evaluation of you: ''Calm in the face of danger, prudent in thoughts''!"


    Lan Chang''an had underestimated Mu Maode''s boldness. Mu Maode knew Lan Chang''an''s loyalty was not sufficient, and if he forcibly conscripted him to the front lines, it might backfire.


    But the family was trulycking manpower. Mu Maode appreciated Lan Chang''an''s alertness disyed previously, as the younger generation within the familycked such a nature. In this family crisis, wasting such talent would be a pity, so he might as well ce Lan Chang''an in an important position.


    During the years Lan Chang''an had been in the Mu family, he did not cause any trouble and cultivated while maintaining a low-profile, earning the eptance of the Mu family in terms of character.


    Mu Maode chose to take a gamble. He didn''t know what kind of fate this helpless gamble would bring to the Mu Family..


    ...


    "Brother Chang''an! I believe you can take over my position and guard the herb garden well," Mu Yunfei looked at him with trusting eyes.


    Previously, the duty of guarding the herb garden was temporarily taken up by Mu Yunfei.


    "Don''t worry! The herb garden is in the backyard of the Feiyue Manor, and there''s also Elder Ge here overseeing the pill refining side of things." The steward added reassuringly.


    Having reached this point, Lan Chang''an could not decline. Previously he was only assisting in the defense, now he had be the leader. The biggest difference was that he could no longer ck off. Compared to Mu Yunfei and Li Ergou who had to go to the front lines and fight, this was still eptable.


    Nine years ago, the Mu family had taken Lan Chang''an in and provided him with ess to their spirit vein and cultivation grounds. The Mu family had shown him kindness. Within reason, undertaking certain duties was only fair.


    This kind of cultivation family that had a righteous ethos and could tolerate foreign surnames to inhabit it was not easy to find in the cultivation world.


    "It''s a good thing I didn''t take a wife in the Mu family," Lan Chang''an thought, free of any attachments and able to run away at a moments notice. The Mu family could not control him.


    Li Ergou''s situation was different. With his wife and children in the Mu family, he had fully integrated into the Mu family over the past decade, making it difficult for him to separate from thisrge collective. Seeing the family in a crisis, Mu Yunfei and Li Ergou had no choice but to step up, even knowing they might have to sacrifice themselves.


    ...


    One monthter, Lan Chang''an had adapted to the duties of guarding the herb garden.


    A few young Mu family cultivators in the early stages of Qi-Refining followed his arrangements. They had to inspect the formation arrays daily, and someone had to be on guard and patrol at night.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an was not the highest authority in the herb garden, he was also subject to checks and bnces. There were two people in the herb garden with higher status than him.


    One was an elderly man with blurry vision at the fifthyer of Qi-Refining, a senior member of the Mu family''s spiritual nting master.Looking at how difficult it was for him to walk, his longevity was nearing its limit, so hisbat ability could not be counted on.


    The other person was naturally Pill Refiner Ge Yi. At the seventhyer of Qi-Refining and a first-rank superior-grade pill refiner, his status was exalted. This man had an arrogant temperament and bad temper. In the few dealings Lan Chang''an had with him, Ge Yi was overbearing and uncivil.


    Lan Chang''an tried his best to avoid him.


    "Junior Lan! Why haven''t you sent that two-hundred-year-old Snake Heart Grass over yet?" Ge Yi walked over with an unhappy expression.


    "ording to the rules, taking rare medicinal ingredients over two hundred years old requires approval from the family head," Lan Chang''an repliedzily as hey on the grass sunbathing.


    Since Ge Yi did not treat him with respect, Lan Chang''an saw no need to be polite either. The puffy eye bags and sunken eye sockets on Ge Yi''s haggard face took on a sinister look in his anger.


    Talking to him while lying down?


    No cultivator in the Mu family had dared to be so disrespectful towards him over the years.


    "This is a special period! The front lines urgently need spirit pills, there cannot be any dys..."


    Recalling that Lan Chang''an was an outsider family member, only a mid-grade talisman master without much leverage, Ge Yi suppressed the anger in his heart.


    "Fine! If you want you can go and get it yourself, I won''t take the responsibility," Lan Chang''an said indifferently. This Pill Refiner Ge Yi often took medicinal herbs without following the rules, especially in this hectic period.


    No one knew just how many herbs he had pocketed for himself. But relying on his friendship with the Foundation Establishment ancestor, the elders who previously guarded the herb garden had all treated him with courtesy.


    "Youzy brat! Neglecting your duties day after day, I will definitely report you to the higher ranks of the family," Ge Yi left with a harsh reprimand before storming off in anger, going to get the precious medicinal herbs.


    "Could it be that the Mu family head wanted me to act as a check on Elder Ge?" Lan Chang''an felt helpless at this oue. He had already been low-profile and steered clear. But being in this position, there was bound to be conflict with Ge Yi.


    "This old man, he must have pocketed some medicinal herbs for himself."


    Soon after, Lan Chang''an saw Ge Yi taking not just the two-hundred-year-old Snake Heart Grass mentioned earlier, but several other rare medicinal ingredients.


    After fetching the herbs, Ge Yi returned to hisrge courtyard and began to refine pills behind closed doors.

 Chapter 19: Baring Fangs

    Chapter 19: Baring Fangs


    "Forget it, what does it have to do with me."


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want to meddle in other people''s affairs. After all, the herbs that were being coveted weren''t his anyway.


    That old man''s sickly appearance was not a sign of longevity. Atmosthe could drag on for twenty or thirty more years before Lan Chang''an could dance on his grave.


    Lan Chang''an avoided his sharp edges and had little interaction with him.


    However, there are some things that couldn''t be avoided just by trying to stay out of it.


    ...


    Several dayster at dawn.


    "Who did this!"


    Lan Chang''an was in meditation when he was awoken by the sudden shout."Everyone gather!"


    Elder Ge Yi''s furious voice echoed through the residential area of the herb garden. Ge Yi''s authority in the medicine garden was undisputed by anyone.


    Around twenty people trickled in sparsely, including guards, herb growers, and mundaneborers. Ge Yi stood in front of a medicinal field, pointing at a messy patch of trampled herbs under his feet. In his hand was a mushroom-shaped remnant of a medicinal herb. From its shape, it seemed to have been gnawed on by some animal.


    "This morning I came to collect some supplementary medicinal ingredients, and saw this situation." Ge Yi''s gaze from under his swollen eye sockets carried a cold, oppressive feeling. He scanned the crowd, his eyes finally resting on Lan Chang''an''s face.


    "Lan Chang''an, what were you doingst night? Exin this situation."


    "Last night I was meditating and resting. I''m not aware of what happened here, it still needs investigating." Lan Chang''an told the truth.


    The medicinal field was quiterge, he couldn''t possibly guard it day and night. But since he wasn''t on guard dutyst night, and losses urred in the field, he bore undeniable responsibility as the resident guard.


    "Hmph! Dereliction of duty!"


    Ge Yi exuded the spiritual pressure of the seventhyer of Qi-Refining. The Mu family cultivators present didn''t dare let out a breath.


    "Fine! You''d better investigate and get to the bottom of this! I''m refining pills and need those ingredients. If there are anypses, I''ll take you to Moonheart Ind to see the Mu family''s ancestor!" Ge Yi was like an exploding powder keg, his voice near a roar.


    "See the ancestor?"


    The Mu family cultivators immediately looked dumbfounded.


    "Could the pill that elder is refining..."


    "Exactly!" Ge Yi said proudly. "Among the spirit pills I''m refining, two are needed by the venerable ancestor."


    Lan Chang''an ignored his threat and squatted down to inspect the trampled medicinal field.


    His brow gradually furrowed. From the appearance of the damaged herbs, it seemed they had been destroyed and eaten by some demonic beast or spirit animal.


    Spirit beasts were prohibited in the medicine garden. If it was a demonic beast, how did it infiltrate the garden''s spell formations without alerting anyone?


    "Elder Ge, my initial assessment is that it was a rat-like demonic beast, or a spirit animal being controlled, that sneaked into the herb garden." Lan Chang''an stated his spection.


    "Lan Chang''an, don''t try to excuse yourself by ming it on some spirit beast infiltration. This incident was due to your dereliction of duty, you can''t avoid responsibility."


    Ge Yi coldly snorted, unsatisfied with Lan Chang''an''s response.


    Lan Chang''an remained silent. As the resident guard, it was indeed hard to shirk responsibility.


    Should he me his subordinate Mu family cultivators under him? That would only further iste him. As an outsider family member, his authority was insufficient to begin with.


    "Oh no! Elder Ge, Warden Lan, a four-hundred-year-old blood spirit mushroom is missing!"


    A cry of rm came from one of the herb growers inspecting the field.


    "A four-hundred-year blood spirit mushroom!"


    An uproar erupted on the scene. This was an extreme loss. A four-hundred-year blood spirit mushroom was an extremely rare spirit herb, the entire Mu family didn''t have many.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression changed slightly. An incident involving such a high-level ingredient had be quite serious.


    He looked at Ge Yi with puzzlement. If this was a frame-up, the method was far too simple and crude. Of course, simple methods didn''t mean they were useless.


    "It seems this incident can''t simply be exined as a spirit beast infiltration or ''failure to guard properly''." Ge Yi''s icy gaze swept across everyone present.


    "There must be someone in the medicine garden stealing from the inside!" A stone stirred up a thousand waves as the Mu family members were shaken.


    Several family member''s eyes unconsciously ncedtowardsLan Chang''an. After all, Lan Chang''an was an outsider. Before he came, the medicine garden had always been peaceful.


    "From now on, no one may leave the medicine garden. Let the family elders dispatch someone to investigate." Ge Yi issued his order.


    The Mu family cultivators had no objections. Even without Ge Yi''s instructions, several Mu family cultivators were already watching Lan Chang''an to prevent his escape.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t try to run. Whoever fled at this point would be under suspicion and be a target.


    Finally, everyone elected the elderly fifthyer Qi-Refining spiritual nting master to return to the n and report the incident.


    This elder herb nter was a Mu family senior near the end of his life but had diligently worked his entire life, trusted by all.


    To clear any doubts, before leaving the elder publicly allowed everyone to search him.


    "This whole incident is very strange..." Lan Chang''an fell into contemtion.


    Could it be that just because he was an outsider with no backing, Ge Yi decided to frame him? To pin the coveted stolen ingredients on him?


    Lan Chang''an had checked and there was no stolen property on him or in his hut. In order to frame someone, there had to be evidence, right?


    If the Mu cultivators came to investigate and found no stolen goods or clues on Lan Chang''an... then there would be doubts about this whole situation!


    The Mu family elders weren''t fools, they would inevitably start to suspect Ge Yi.


    Of course, it was also possible that a third party was trying to sow discord within the Mu family by muddying the waters.


    ...


    Around noon.


    The elder herb grower returned.


    He was apanied by investigators dispatched by the Mu family elders.


    It was a man and a woman.


    The graceful, gentle female figure was none other than the Mu family youngdy - Mu Xiuyun.


    The other, a scrawny man in arge cloak with a ck hound following at his feet, only had the thirdyer of Qi-Refining, likely someone whospecialisedin investigation and reasoning within the family.


    "Elder Ge, father is away on business, so I''ve brought someone to investigate today. We''ll definitely arrive at a just conclusion." Mu Xiuyun gave a graceful curtsy, her voice gentle and melodious.


    "No problem! Under special circumstances, that''s understandable." Ge Yi stroked his beard with a smile, his tone amiable.


    In truth, the Mu family''s top fighting forces were currently upied at the mines. Many internal affairs were being handled by Mu Xiuyun.


    Mu Xiuyun''s starry eyes turned towards Lan Chang''an with a hint of worry, about to say something.


    "Woof! Woof..."


    The scrawny man''sck houndspirit pet grew restless, constantly trying to run outside the medicine garden.


    "Hmm? Something''s not right!"


    Lan Chang''an''s nostrils red, but he only smelled normal medicinal herb aromas.


    "My head... feels dizzy..."


    At this point, several lower-cultivating Mu family cultivators began to sway unsteadily, with brownish spots appearing on their faces.


    "Young Lady, be careful! There''s poison¡ª"


    The scrawny man''s body trembled.


    His ck hound spirit pet, after running a short distance, suddenly coughed up blood and copsed.


    "Who released the poison!" Mu Xiuyun''s slender body swayed as she cried out in a clear voice, scanning everyone present.


    However, she saw the mu cultivators copsing and swaying to the ground.


    Only elder Ge Yi remained unaffected, revealing a sinister smile.


    "The youngdy has a treasure that protects against poison?" Ge Yi gloated, ncing at the small sachet on Mu Xiuyun''s waist that had now turned ck and was emitting wispy ck smoke.


    Thump! Thump!


    Aside from Mu Xiuyun, all the Mu family cultivators present were poisoned and copsed to the ground. Those with low cultivation vomited blood and died on the spot. Those with better constitutions and higher cultivation were just knocked unconscious or paralyzed.


    "What kind of poison did this old man release? There''s not even a trace of a scent." Lan Chang''an and theck houndboth detected the abnormality at the same time. He was just about to use a secret technique to expel the poison and consume an antidote pill, but he found that as soon as the strange toxin entered his body, it was rapidly dissolved and devoured by the mana of his Ancient Evergreen Technique.


    Could the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique have detoxifying effects?


    No, it was more like toxin dissolution.


    This was an unexpected boon.


    To avoid bing Ge Yi''s primary target, Lan Chang''an pretended to be poisoned and copsed.


    "Traitor! So it was you¡ª" Mu Xiuyun''s expression turned icy cold, her silver teeth clenched tightly.


    Swish!


    She forcefully channeled her magic power, a silver luminous haze shooting out from her sleeve like lightning towards Ge Yi.


    Within the silver haze, the outline of a silver ruler could vaguely be seen.


    This was a middle-grade magic weapon.


    "Hehe, Young Lady Mu, your sachet couldn''t fully block the ''Marrow Corroding Powder''. With just the sixthyer of Qi-Refining, even at peakstateyou''d be no match for me." Ge Yi said nonchntly as he waved his sleeve.


    A barrier of green inscribed patterns formed, shielding him. This was a mana force shield that onlyte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators could cast.


    "Pong!"


    The silver luminous haze exploded, the radiance of the ruler artifact dimming, its force spent.


    It was inconceivable that Mu Xiuyun''s artifact strike couldn''t even break through Ge Yi''s force field.


    "Elder Ge, what are you trying to do? Why betray the Mu family?" Mu Xiuyun grunted, a faint brownish tinge appearing on her fairplexion. She inwardly cursed, as the toxin''s invasion hampered her ability to fully exert her magical power.


    "Heh! I originally just wanted to kill everyone in the medicine garden and make off with a batch of precious herbs. But with Mu Maode recently going to the Maple Leaf Huang family to discuss a marriage alliance, making you, his daughter, an important bargaining chip..." Ge Yi unhurriedly exined, waiting for the poison to further take effect on Mu Xiuyun.


    "Tsk tsk, such an unmatched beauty, I really can''t bear to ruin the flower in full bloom. Missy, if you surrender obediently, and allow me to take you captive, I''ll spare your life."


    Gazing at the elegant and exquisite Mu Xiuyun, Ge Yi curved his lip in a mocking smile.


    Shua! Whoo!


    His withered palms opened, ck lines materializing that rapidly inted into a dense ck spanning several yards, expanding as it stirred up a gray whirlwind that rushed towards Mu Xiuyun.

 Chapter 20: Intense Battle

    Chapter 20: Intense Battle


    That ck was a special magical weapon, and the gray whirlwind it raised made Mu Xiuqun feel dizzy and her head spin before it even approached her.


    She quickly cast two medium-grade talismans.


    Hum!


    Two consecutiveyers of golden light shields protected Mu Xiuqun''s body.


    It was a first-rank spell, Golden Light Shield.


    However, the moment the ck pressed down, the golden light shields made a "sizzled" sound and visibly ckened and shattered at a visible speed.


    The firstyer of the golden light shield copsed in the blink of an eye.


    The secondyer of the golden light shield did not evenst a breath.


    The ck was also a medium-grade magical weapon, the power it was exerting in the hands of someone in thete Qi-Refining stage was appalling.Mu Xiuqun''s pretty face turned pale, and gritting her teeth, she cast another light blue superior-grade talisman.


    A bone-chilling coldness condensed, and a shimmering crystalline water shield enveloped Mu Xiuqun''s body.


    The ck pressed against the crystalline water shield, its threads intertwining with the water flow and making a "hissing" sound, but was finally blocked.


    However, the crystalline water shield was rapidly dimming and could notst more than a few breaths.


    Taking the opportunity, Mu Xiuqun swallowed a detoxifying pill.


    At this moment, a ray of light like a firework shot up from the herb field not far away, visible for hundreds of miles around.


    "Signalling talisman!"


    Ge Yi and Mu Xiuqun instinctively looked over to see a young man in a white robe crushing a talisman slip in his hand.


    As the guard of the herb garden, Lan Chang''an had to do something.


    "Junior! You didn''t get poisoned?" Ge Yi''s swollen eyes narrowed slightly, somewhat surprised.


    The "Marrow Corroding Powder" he had used was not an ordinary poison, able to mix into the aura of nts and grass. An ordinary Qi-Refining cultivator in the middle stage would definitely be unable to resist it.


    "Fortunately, thisn practiced poison resistance when learning martial arts in the past, so the poison did not prate...deeply"


    Lan Chang''an''s face was grim, and he gritted his teeth with effort as he stood up quickly and swallowed a detoxifying pill. In fact, he was just putting on a show.


    The poison had been dissolved by his Evergreen mana as soon as it entered his body, saving him some trouble.


    The so-called poison resistance training, which would damage one''s physical foundation, was something Lan Chang''an had never practiced.


    "Lan Chang''an, I''m d you''re alright! With the two of us joining forces, there''s still hope." Mu Xiuqun''s starry eyes shed with a brilliant light as she eximed joyfully.


    Lan Chang''an was also in the middle stage of Qi-Refining, so joining forces with him, they only needed to hold out for a moment before reinforcements from the Mu family arrived.


    Feiyue Manor was more than two hundred miles away from here.


    "Just relying on this kid?" Ge Yi sneered and, while suppressing Mu Xiuqun, casually shot out a clump of ghastly green mes. He had never taken a cultivator like Lan Chang''an, who had just entered the fourth level of Qi-Refining, seriously.


    Facing the ghastly green mes, Lan Chang''an acted swiftly, activating a Water Curtain Talisman.


    Ayer of misty blue water screen appeared in front of him.


    Boom!


    The ghastly green mes exploded, and the water screen suddenly dimmed as arge amount of water vapor rose.


    After about one or two breaths, the water screen shattered.


    The ghastly green mes were also mostly extinguished by the water flow and did not harm Lan Chang''an who had dodged away.


    Ge Yi couldn''t help but let out a light exmation of surprise.


    Although water ovees fire, an ordinary first-rank mid-grade talisman should not have been able to block his secret fire spell of thete Qi-Refining stage.


    It seemed that Lan Chang''an had used a rare and high quality talisman.


    "Mydy, I''ll get close and put pressure on him."


    Lan Chang''an was not afraid of Ge Yi overhearing, and left an afterimage on the spot.


    Besides being a cultivator, he was also a Martial Innate, with a physique that was stronger than that of non-martial artists in the Qi-Refining stage.


    Once he got close, thebination of his martial artsbat skills and cultivation techniques would not be something to be taken lightly.


    "Foolish little brat! How ridiculous!"


    Ge Yi was about to break through Mu Xiuqun''s defensive barrier, but when he saw Lan Chang''an charging at him, he did not dodge or evade, revealing a mocking sneer.


    Poof! Poof! Poof!


    Before Lan Chang''an could get close, several earth spikes shot up from the ground beneath his feet, each over a zhang (3.3 meters) high, capable of instantly piercing even the body of a tiger or elephant.


    Lan Chang''an''s footwork was like he had eyes on the soles of his feet. Leaping and shifting his body, he narrowly dodged the continuously appearing earth spikes.


    These earth spikes that appeared without any warning were not spells cast by Ge Yi.


    "This kid reacts pretty quickly."


    Ge Yi showed a slight regret, having expected Lan Chang''an to surely die.


    Boom!


    Where the earth spikes emerged from the ground, dust flew as a huge brownish-yellow rat-shaped demonic beast emerged, its four limbs extremely robust and ws and fangs like iron and steel.


    "Earth Burrowing Rat!"


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes narrowed slightly.


    With this, it became clear how Ge Yi had nted the evidence earlier.


    The framing was not deliberately aimed at Lan Chang''an but intended to lure out the Mu family''s youngdy and disrupt the marriage alliance between the Mu family and the Huang family.


    Previously, everyone in the herb garden had been deceived by Ge Yi''s arrogant and ill-tempered appearance. At most, they had suspected Ge Yi of coveting the medicinal herbs. This was probably a w he had deliberately revealed, since greed for wealth is a normal human trait.


    ...


    At present, this Rock Rat possessed spiritual power on par with the pinnacle of the sixth level of Qi-Refining.


    The stealthy earth spike attacks earlier could instantly kill even someone at the seventh level of Qi-Refining.


    Poof!


    Rock fragments as big as millstones were shattered by the Rock Rat''s ws.


    Immediately after, its ferocious eyes shed red light.


    It charged towards the airborne Lan Chang''an at an extremely fast speed.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an had no room to evade, forcefully stomping down with one foot and erupting his martial arts qi, while simultaneously enveloping his leg with ayer of Evergreen magic power.


    A tremendous sound erupted as arge pit was sted open in the ground.


    Lan Chang''an''s blood and qi churned as his bare foot went numb, borrowing the force to leap dozens of meters away, separating himself from the Rock Rat.


    As a Martial Innate, although his physical body was strong,pared to a demonic beast of this level, there was still a considerable gap.


    As he retreated, Lan Chang''an threw out three fireballs that mmed into the Rock Rat''s body.


    The Rock Rat howled, its fur ckened in several spots.


    Its body swayed slightly, but it did not seem greatly affected as it charged towards Lan Chang''an once more.


    "Earth-type demonic beasts, they really are thick-skinned." Lan Chang''an felt a bit troubled.


    Of course, the Earth Burrowing Rat''s higher cultivation level was also an important reason. As the Rock Rat charged again, Lan Chang''an''s face turned solemn as he formed hand seals and chanted swiftly, rapidly expending his magic power.


    Instantly, arge amount of nt and wood spiritual essence gathered.


    The Rock Rat''s body shuddered slightly, revealing an uneasy look in its eyes.


    In the next moment, from the surrounding ground and nts, thorny vines condensed and, at a speed faster than lightning, bound and restrained the Rock Rat.


    "Squeak....."


    The Rock Rat squealed and struggled violently, showing fear on its face.


    But those thorny vines were extremely tough and formed a prison that bound it tightly.


    "The Restraining Vine Spell!" Ge Yi''s expression showed astonishment.


    The Restraining Vine Spell was a rtively difficult wood-type spell, rarely mastered by cultivators in the Qi-Refining stage.


    By taking advantage of the dense wood and nt spiritual qi in the herb garden, Lan Chang''an was able to employ a clever trick to cast this spell despite only being in the middle stage of Qi-Refining, which could be considered an ingenious application of techniques.


    The Restraining Vine Spell also happened to be the perfect counter against an earth-type demonic beast.


    "Old man! Let''s see what other tricks you have."


    After restraining the Rock Rat, Lan Chang''an pped a Wind Speed Talisman on himself, leaving an afterimage as he swiftly charged toward Ge Yi.


    "This kid is not only a Martial Innate Master but also proficient in spells..."


    Ge Yi finally started to panic a little and hurriedly took out a Flying Shuttle magical weapon.


    Swish!


    A cold rainbow shed as the Flying Shuttle shed towards Lan Chang''an''s face in an instant.


    Although Lan Chang''an was fast, he could not match the attack speed of the magical weapon.


    Without time to think, he took out a dark green shield and expanded it, like a stone wall blocking in front of him.


    The Bedrock Shield.


    This was a middle-grade defensive magical weapon he had exchanged using his family''s contributions!


    "ng!" With a loud sound, the Flying Shuttle left a groove on the Jade Rock Shield, sparks flew, and an ear-piercing screeching sound of friction could be heard.


    Lan Chang''an let out a slight sigh of relief. Although they were both medium-grade weapons, one wielded by ate Qi-Refining cultivator would be far more powerful.


    Fortunately, since Ge Yi was fighting both of them, this hasty weapon attack only had about 70% of its full power.


    But Lan Chang''an had achieved his goal. By having to deal with Lan Chang''an, Ge Yi''s suppression of Mu Xiuqun had ckened.


    Just a moment ago, the ck had already broken through Mu Xiuqun''s superior-grade defensive talisman, leaving her in grave peril.


    "Well done!" Mu Xiuqun''s eyes lit up as she seized the opportunity!


    Without hesitation, she took out her trump card - a superior-grade offensive talisman.


    The zing mes Technique!


    Fiery spiritual energy boiled as a twisted, dark red fireball erupted and mmed fiercely into the ck overhead.


    The ck was sted apart, its light dimming somewhat.


    However, the crisis was not resolved.


    Ge Yi''s spiritual power was abundant and his magical weapon was intact, so hisbat prowess remained undiminished.


    Mu Xiuqun had notpletely resolved the poison in her body and could not hold out much longer.


    Poof!


    Mu Xiuqun''s face turned deathly pale as she circted her spiritual power, forcing a few drops of her vital blood out from the tip of her tongue and onto a silver ruler.


    Blood mes burst out on the surface of the silver ruler, sending forth dazzling light which transformed into a practiced strike that, in the brief moment the ck was sted apart, shed towards Ge Yi''s face.


    The power of this strike wasparable to thete Qi-Refining stage.


    "Not bad." Lan Chang''an silently praised her, as she had seized this opportune moment for a counterattack very well.


    Generally, ate Qi-Refining cultivator could only control two medium-grade magical weapons or four low-grade ones at the same time. Even if Ge Yi had another weapon, he would not have the capacity to use it.


    "Insolent brats!"


    Ge Yi''s face turned ashen with rage, gritting his teeth furiously. He could only p out a Golden Light Shield talisman and forcibly conjure a mana force shield.


    Poof! Poof! Bang!


    The silver ruler broke through the Golden Light Shield, then left a crack in Ge Yi''s spiritual force shield.


    But it was ultimately blocked!


    Sweat beaded on Ge Yi''s forehead as he reached his limit, fighting on two fronts while maintaining two medium-grade weapons and also sustaining his spiritual force shield.


    But just then, an abnormality suddenly urred!


    Swish swish¡ª


    Several small, dim needle rays shot toward Ge Yi from the side.


    "Not good!"


    Those few needle rays pierced through the already cracked spiritual force shield protecting Ge Yi.


    Two of the needle rays went straight for his face.


    Terrified, Ge Yi hastily circted his spiritual power in a desperate attempt to evade them.


    Buffered by the spiritual force shield, the speeds of those needle rays slowed slightly, allowing him to dodge most of them.


    Pluck!


    However, one of the needle rays pierced into Ge Yi''s leg.


    He let out a slight sigh of relief, at least having avoided his vital areas.


    But in the next moment, Ge Yi''s leg went numb, his body staggered, his face turned ck, and he gritted his teeth as he red at Lan Chang''an:


    "You little beast! You actuallyced the needles with poison..." <ul> <li>Your feedback and ratings are greatly appreciated. If you have a moment, please consider rating this novel on Novelupdates.</li> <li>Should you notice any errors in this chapter, kindly mention them in thements below so I can correct them. Thank you!</li> </ul>

 Chapter 21: The Might of the Golden Blade

    Chapter 21: The Might of the Golden de


    "Only you are allowed to use poison but someone else isn''t?"


    Lan Chang''an, having sessfully struck Ge Yi, couldn''t help but sneer.


    Ge Yi had been wary of Lan Chang''an attacking in close quarters, never expecting the use of hidden needles.


    The needle rays from before were from the "Seven Ingenious Needles" magical weapon set that Lan Chang''an had purchased at the September Building.


    As a low-grade magical weapon, the power of a single needle from the "Seven Ingenious Needles" was quite limited unless it struck a vital point.


    Therefore, Lan Chang''an had imbued all seven needles with poison.


    Unfortunately, since Lan Chang''an had been stuck at the Mu family''s residence with limited trading resources, he could only obtainmon mixed poisons.


    The potency of the poison was far inferior to Ge Yi''s Marrow Corroding Powder.


    However, the poisoned needle attacks were enough to reduce Ge Yi''s strength."Insidious and underhanded Junior! Mu Maode valued you highly, but one day it will backfire on him." Ge Yi roared angrily, hurriedly recalling the Flying Shuttle.


    With his legs poisoned, his movements were impeded. He tried to ride the magical weapon and fly away, putting distance between Lan Chang''an and himself.


    "Stay put!"


    How could Lan Chang''an let Ge Yi escape so easily after bing mortal enemies? He absolutely could not let him go.


    Recalling the medium-grade magical weapon Bedrock Shield.


    Aided by the Wind Speed Talisman, he moved as swiftly as a raging wind, controlling the "Seven Ingenious Needles" to pursue.


    He also took out another low-grade offensive magical weapon, the Dark Gold de.


    With two offensive magical weapons, the unrelenting barrage kept Ge Yi from taking flight.


    Lan Chang''an also threw out a Frostwind Talisman.


    A chilling frost wind swirled, its power not strong but serving to slow Ge Yi down.


    On the other side, the pale-faced Mu Xiuyun controlled her silver ruler to entangle Ge Yi''s ck magical weapon, asionally throwing out talisman slips as well.


    Both Lan Chang''an and Mu Xiuyun were Talisman Masters with ample supplies of medium and low-grade talisman slips.


    As for high-grade talisman slips:


    Mu Xiuyun had a low sess rate in creating them and they were costly, so she mainly used them on the front lines. She only had one offensive and one defensive superior-grade talisman left, which had been used up earlier.


    Naturally, Lan Chang''an also had high-grade talisman slips, but he was reserving them a bit.


    "Damn it! Two Talisman Masters, there''s no end to it!" Ge Yi was suffering terribly under such intense offensive pressure. If he was at full strength, relying on his superior cultivation and magical weapons, he would have a decent chance of slowly wearing them down. But due to the poison sapping his strength and impairing his mobility, he was at a disadvantage.


    In the vicinity of the Mu family''s residence, a prolonged fight would only lead to death.


    Thus, such a scene unfolded:


    An old man in ancient robes, limping with swollen eyes, being chased and attacked by a man and woman, roaring incessantly.


    "Quick, help me¡ª"


    Gritting his teeth through some minor injuries, Ge Yi ran to the entrance of the herb garden, shouting loudly.


    Upon hearing it, Lan Chang''an and the others turned deathly pale.


    Could it be that Ge Yi had reinforcements?


    "Poof!"


    At this moment, Mu Xiuyun coughed out a mouthful of dark purple coagted blood, brownish spots appearing on her snowyplexion as her lithe body suddenly went soft, and she was about to copse.


    "Are you alright?"


    Lan Chang''an flickered over and held Mu Xiuyun in his arms.


    Checking her pulse briefly, he found that Mu Xiuyun''s magical power was depleted and the deadly poison was ring up.


    Fortunately, the sachet magical weapon at Mu Xiuyun''s waist had blocked most of the potent poison. Otherwise, an ordinary sixthyer Qi-Refining cultivator would have sumbed to the poison long ago.


    Lan Chang''an infused a strand of his Evergreen mana to help alleviate Mu Xiuyun''s condition.


    Suddenly, the sound of air being torn apart came from the nearby mountains, apanied by a powerful fluctuation of spiritual energy.


    "Master Ge Dan, even with the Marrow Corroding Powder and Earth Burrowing Rat helping you, you still couldn''t deal with two little brats?" An unsatisfied male voice rang out.


    The speaker was a middle-aged man with a full beer belly, wearing a tall mountain hat.


    "Elder Zheng, it was my carelessness and arrogance. Plus, that kid is indeed not ordinary..." Ge Yi forced a bitter smile, while also letting out a slight sigh of relief.


    "The ninthyer of Qi-Refining!" Lan Chang''an''s heart felt a chill as he sensed the spiritual energy fluctuations from the middle-aged man in the tall mountain hat.


    "Zheng family elder... Zheng Yuanhua, run quickly!" Mu Xiuyun recognized the man''s identity, her face full of despair and her whole body turning ice-cold.


    Without her saying anything, Lan Chang''an activated a superior-grade Wind Speed Talisman, swiftly carrying Mu Xiuyun and fleeing at an astonishing speed.


    "Carrying a woman and thinking you can run away? That would be a big joke." Zheng Yuanhua stood with his hands behind his back, letting out a coldugh as he took out a flying boat and let Ge Yi board it with him.


    Ge Yi''s face beamed with delight. A flying boat was a specialized flight magic weapon far exceeding the speed of ordinary weapons.


    There was absolutely no way for Lan Chang''an and the others to escape!


    As Zheng Yuanhua made a hand seal to activate the flying boat, his body suddenly froze as he sensed something and turned to look.


    "Such audacity! To treat the Mu family as insignificant."


    Half a mile away, the sinister voice of a man rang out.


    "Mu Renglong? How did you get here so quickly!"


    Zheng Yuanhua''s expression turned grave as his brow furrowed slightly. Earlier, he had also seen the signal talisman from the herb garden.


    But Feiyue Mountain Vi was more than two hundred miles from the herb garden and with the flying speed of a Qi-Refining cultivator, it should not have been possible to arrive this fast.


    As for the Foundation Establishment Realm ancestor, he knew the precise information that the patriarchs of both families were currently engaged on the front lines.


    Therefore, Zheng Yuanhua dared to implement such a bold n,ing to the herb garden alone to assist Ge Yi.


    "Elder Ge, I''ll hold off Mu Renglong. You have sixty breaths of time to fly the boat and kill the Mu family''s youngdy. No need to leave any survivors!" Zheng Yuanhua''s mind raced as he immediately made a decision.


    The duck they had gotten their hands on could not be allowed to fly away. Today, he was going to snatch the food from the tiger''s mouth!


    "Rest assured, Elder Zheng! With only that brat left, it won''t be difficult to deal with him."


    Ge Yi''s eyes showed a murderous intent as he swallowed a detoxifying pill and boarded the flying boat to give chase.


    After a few breaths of time. A tall, hawk-eyed man in ck robes rode a blue flying boat, catching up to them.


    "Mu Renglong, it''s been a long time since west crossed hands. Let me see if your Thunder Marsh Art has improved."


    Zheng Yuanhua raised his palm, whipping up a sandstorm with howling winds.


    "You''re courting death¡ª"


    Mu Renglong''s face radiated a sinister aura as he nced regretfully toward Lan Chang''an and Mu Xiuyun, a deep orb of flickering lightning coalescing in his palm.


    ...


    In the valley between the mountains, Lan Chang''an held Mu Xiuyun in his arms, aided by the Lightfoot Talisman to move at incredible speed.


    An ordinaryte Qi-Refining cultivator would find it difficult to keep up.


    "Lan Chang''an, put me down. You''ll move faster and have a chance to live..." The Mu Xiuyun in his arms was fading in and out of consciousness, her words slurred. Her jade-like face was dotted with brownish spots, and herplexion growing worse.


    "Only one person is pursuing us?"


    Lan Chang''an nced back at the flying boat in the sky, silently severing his connection to the Nine Seal Stele.


    "Mydy, you rest first."


    Lan Chang''an extended a hand and ced it on Mu Xiuyun''s forehead.


    Circting his Evergreen mana, a calming force allowed Mu Xiuyun to feel exceptionallyfortable before she fell into a deep sleep.


    "Lan Chang''an, let''s see where you can run!" Ge Yi maneuvered the flying boat, rapidly closing in. He was in great shape, with the poison damage mostly stabilized, able to exert ny percent of his full power.


    Lan Chang''an remained calm, surveying the terrain until he spotted a river. His eyes lit up as he carried Mu Xiuyun to the riverbank and ced her on a boulder.


    After doing so, he turned and waited by the river''s edge.


    "Haha! What, did you find yourself a feng shui treasure spot?" Ge Yi revealed an amused smile. But inwardly he was on guard, unable to understand Lan Chang''an''s actions.


    "Elder Ge is truly perceptive." Lan Chang''an gave a half-smile in praise.


    "Die!" With only sixty breaths of time left, over half already gone, Ge Yi could not afford to dy any longer.


    Whew!


    That densely woven ck released a gray whirlwind, exuding an aura that could overwhelm the mind and soul as it descended upon Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an had witnessed the might of this special magical weapon and did not dare underestimate it.


    He took out the Bedrock Shield, expanding it into a massive wall-like barrier to block most of the ck''s power head-on. As for the mind-influencing force from the ck, it had almost no effect on Lan Chang''an.


    "Chop!"


    Ge Yi struck with full power, taking out the Flying Shuttle medium-grade magical weapon which transformed into a cold ray of light, intending to bypass the frontal defense of the Jade Rock Shield and strike Lan Chang''an from behind.


    At the same moment Ge Yi summoned the Flying Shuttle, Lan Chang''an also made his move, a talisman slip covered in faint golden lines appearing in his palm.


    With a light tap, the talisman slip with golden lines emanated a sharp, cutting aura.


    "That is..." Ge Yi felt a shudder run through him. He only glimpsed a sh of golden light and in the next instant,


    His vision suddenly flipped upside down as he plummeted from midair.


    He saw the bloodied flying boat, and a headless corpse aboard it.


    Behind the headless corpse,


    A golden de ray over a zhang long shed through the sky.


    "I..." With astonishment and terror, Ge Yi''s consciousness plunged into endless darkness.


    "The Golden de Talisman, my unique secret talisman, brings you back to the heavens in this life." A surge of heroic spirit rose within Lan Chang''an''s calm demeanor.


    After Ge Yi was killed by a single sh, the ck and Flying Shuttle magical weapon lost control and fell to the ground. There was also the flying boat.


    Lan Chang''an quickly collected these few magical weapons and also ransacked Ge Yi''s storage pouch, clearing the battlefield and confirming nothing was left behind.


    Lan Chang''an ced Ge Yi''s corpse by the riverside and ignited a fireball to burn it. When it was almost burnt to ashes, he kicked the remains into the swift currents of the great river.


    Any traces left on the riverbank were quickly washed away by the waves, as if nothing had ever happened.


    "Indeed! This was the feng shui treasure spot I chose, convenient for disposing of the corpse and leaving no traces!"


    There''s some author notes in theing chapters, should I trante them even if they aren''t very important?

 Chapter 22: Words Left Unsaid

    Chapter 22: Words Left Unsaid


    After dealing with the beginning and the end.


    Lan Chang''an went to the boulder and helped the unconscious Mu Xiuyun up.


    He circted his Evergreen Energy to dispel the poison in her body.


    But he did notpletely remove it, only ensuring her life was not in danger and her condition was stable.


    Although wood-type cultivation techniques generally contain nt and wood spiritual qi with healing effects that can dispel poisons to some extent, it was far from the exaggerated effects of the Evergreen mana.


    Lan Chang''an also gave Mu Xiuyun a Recovery Pill.


    As the deadly poison weakened and her magical power recovered, Mu Xiuyun opened her eyes and felt the aura of the man supporting her from behind.


    "I''m... not dead?" Mu Xiuyun''s breath was weak, unable to care about the difference between men and women. Her beautiful face, still with some brownish spots, showed half surprise and half puzzlement.


    Calming herself down.She asked, "Ge Yi didn''t continue pursuing us?"


    "At that time, Ge Yi came after us on the flying boat, and we couldn''t escape. I could only stubbornly defend with the Bedrock Shield, exhausting all my talisman slips. Just as my spiritual power was depleted and I reached my limit, Ge Yi suddenly retreated..."


    Lan Chang''an calmly recited the story he had prepared beforehand. To make it seem more convincing, his robe was torn with a few bloody wounds.


    While listening, Mu Xiuyun asionally revealed her thoughts: "Ge Yi was poisoned and not at his peak. Even so, for Lan Chang''an to hold out for a moment was not easy."


    As for why Ge Yi retreated, there was no need to ponder much about it. After all, near the Mu family''s residence, even Zheng Yuanhua at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining would not dare linger for long.


    Mu Xiuyun had no doubts about Lan Chang''an''s ount.


    She could never have imagined that Lan Chang''an, who had just entered the fourthyer of Qi-Refining, could y Ge Yi, who was at the seventhyer.


    "Miss, the poison in your body can only be slightly alleviated by my wood-type spiritual power. You must seek proper treatment once we return." Seeing that Mu Xiuyun could sit and regte her breathing, Lan Chang''an released his arms from holding her.


    "Lan Chang''an, I truly must thank you this time..." Mu Xiuyun seemed to recall something, her starry eyes lowered as a faint blush appeared on her pretty face.


    Earlier, when her magical power was depleted and the deadly poison red up, Lan Chang''an had carried her as they fled. That natural, refreshing masculine aura of the other party''s body still lingered.


    "It was only my duty." Lan Chang''an did not boast. As long as it wasn''t in return for his body, anything was fine.


    After waiting for a moment, the sound of air being torn apart could be heard.


    Their hearts tightened.


    They saw a tall, sturdy man in disheveled ck robes riding a blue flying boat, his face anxious as he searched through the mountains.


    "Uncle Renglong."


    Relieved, Mu Xiuyun waved excitedly.


    Seeing the two of them, Mu Renglong let out a long sigh of relief.


    Blood stains still fresh on his mouth, and his gaping grin coupled with his grim, sharp gaze gave him a ferocious appearance.


    "Greetings, Second Elder." Lan Chang''an cupped his hands in salute. He had heard of Mu Renglong''s renowned might as the strongest elder of the Mu family.


    "Xiuyun, you''re alright?"


    Mu Renglong approached Mu Xiuyun with concern on his face.


    "No grave injuries, the poison in my body has been temporarily stabilized." Mu Xiuyun forced a smile, the poisonous spots still visible on her face.


    "This is the Marrow Corroding Powder! Ordinary detoxifying pills are ineffective. Fortunately, you had the Hundred Herb Scented Sachet."


    After examining her, Mu Renglong took out a translucent white pill and had Mu Xiuyun consume it.


    Mu Xiuyun said gratefully, "Uncle Renglong, thank heavens you arrived in time. Otherwise, against Zheng Yuanhua, we would have had no chance of survival."


    Lan Chang''an was slightly puzzled by this. When he had set off the signal talisman, Feiyue Mountain Vi was over two hundred miles away. Mu Renglong should not have been able to get here so quickly.


    "Hmph! I never liked that Ge fellow. If not for his rtionship with the Patriarch..." Mu Renglong''s expression turned gloomy, a murderous aura emerging.


    "Today, I originally had something to discuss with Xiuyun. When I learned about the situation at the herb garden, I felt it was suspicious. That old man turned out to be the mole!" It turned out that in recent years, Mu Renglong had been searching for the mole within the family. Elder Ge Dan was one of the few suspects he was keeping an eye on.


    "A mole?" Lan Chang''an recalled how, years ago when he and Li Ergou were returning to the Mu family, they had been ambushed halfway by people from the Zheng family like the Ugly Woman.


    The Zheng family had somehow known the precise timing of their departure and return. However, since Ge Yi had already been killed by Lan Chang''an, if he was the mole, then the grudge had been avenged.


    As for the Ugly Woman and others from the Zheng family, he would find an opportunity to deal with themter.


    ...


    "By the way, how did you two escape the pursuit? What happened at the herb garden?"


    "Uncle Renglong, it was Lan Chang''an..."


    At this point, some color returned to Mu Xiuyun''s pale face as the brownish spots faded.


    "Oh?" Mu Renglong listened with an astonished expression.


    asionally asking a question, his gaze towards Lan Chang''an gradually revealed appreciation.


    "Lan Chang''an, you have rendered great service to the family today! The family will record your merit." Mu Renglong walked over and patted Lan Chang''an''s shoulder.


    In that instant of contact, Lan Chang''an sensed a hidden fluctuation of mana.


    "An ordinary wood-type cultivation technique..." Mu Renglong''s thoughts turned profound as he had probed Lan Chang''an''s earlier but found nothing unusual.


    Reviewing this crisis at the herb garden, Lan Chang''an''s contributions were not insignificant, leaving no major suspicions. However, there were two minor points of doubt:


    First, Lan Chang''an was able to resist the Marrow Corroding Powder and quickly recover, which ordinary poison resistance training could not achieve.


    On this point, Lan Chang''an might have been hiding something. Perhaps he possessed some strange object that could detoxify and expel poisons, which was not umon in the cultivation world. For example, Mu Xiuyun''s sachet of fragrances was normally just an essory but could ward off poisons in crucial moments.


    Second, in this battle, Lan Chang''an disyed considerable talent in spell casting andbat prowess, holding off Elder Ge Dan alone for at least twenty breaths, even though thetter was poisoned and not at full strength.


    Of course, such exceptional performance did not exceed the bounds of reason. In the cultivation world, some cultivators with mediocre aptitudes excelled inbat talents and spellprehension, even capable of fighting above their level.


    At the very least, Lan Chang''an''s performance did not surpass some of the peerless geniuses in the history of the cultivation world in Liang Nation.


    Moreover, as a Martial Innate Master, Lan Chang''an''s experience in the martial world, battle-hardened skills, and use of poison tactics all aligned with his background.


    Mu Renglong never even considered the possibility that Lan Chang''an could jump his level to kill Ge Yi, who was at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    Even for Mu Renglong himself, killing Elder Ge Dan would require some effort.


    ...


    "Lan Chang''an, it''s a bit of a pity that a talent like you didn''t go to the frontline to battle." Mu Renglong said with a piercing gaze.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression twitched slightly: "This junior cannot shoulder such a heavy responsibility. It is more suitable for me to draw talisman slips for the family."


    Having rendered such great service today by rescuing the Mu family''s youngdy, if he was "rewarded" by being sent to the front lines, he might as well leave this family.


    Fortunately, Mu Renglong was only probing and did not make any requests.


    He knew that Lan Chang''an was a talented outsider who refused to marry and have children, and had been cultivating in a low-key manner. Asking him to risk his life for the family would definitely be unrealistic.


    ...


    An hourter, Mu Renglong brought the two of them back to the herb garden.


    The losses of medicinal herbs in the garden were still eptable, aside from those coveted by Ge Yi.


    "Uncle Cheng..."


    What pained and grieved Mu Renglong was that several low-level Qi-Refining cultivators in the herb garden, those nt tenders and servants, had all sumbed to the poison.


    Among them was the fifthyer Qi-Refining nt tender. By generational titles, that elderly spiritual nting master was Mu Renglong''s uncle.


    Lan Chang''an surveyed the surroundings and noticed the Earth Rock Rat was nowhere to be seen. Without spiritual power to sustain it, the Restraining Vine Technique had a time limit.


    After properly arranging the corpses of the deceased, Mu Renglong gazed at the deste, empty herb garden for a long while before speaking:


    "Lan Chang''an, you will continue to guard the herb garden. The family will promptly send reinforcements. Once the dispute over the mining districts on the front lines is resolved, the family will reward you for your service."


    Continue guarding it?


    Lan Chang''an knew the Mu family was in dire need of manpower currently.


    After this crisis and rescuing Mu Xiuyun, the Mu family''s higher-ups ced even more trust in him. As long as he didn''t go to the front lines and remained stationed at the herb garden, Lan Chang''an had no objections.


    "Second Elder, that Elder Zheng from the Zheng family..." Lan Chang''an inquired.


    "You can rest assured." Mu Renglong understood Lan Chang''an''s concern.


    "I injured Zheng Yuanhua, and he won''t dare return. Moreover, I will be setting some covert plots in motion to take revenge on the Zheng family..."


    Mu Renglong''s tone was vicious.


    "That''s good." Lan Chang''an seemed to rx slightly.


    In fact, he was not too afraid of the Zheng family elder. Against a ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator, he had ways to protect himself, but it would still be troublesome.


    Lan Chang''an still had a few Golden de Talismans left that he had refined a few years ago. This talisman was enough to deal with ordinaryte Qi-Refining opponents. But against powerhouses like Mu Renglong and Zheng Yuanhua at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, it might not be so advantageous.


    Ge Yi had been instantly killed by a single de because of the element of surprise. At that time, Ge Yi was fully focused on controlling two artifacts, leaving openings in his defenses.


    ...


    That evening.


    After her injuries from the poison were initially treated, Mu Xiuyun followed Mu Renglong to return to the family.


    "Lan Chang''an, be careful." Before parting, the elegant Mu Xiuyun in a modest long dress, graceful and beautiful, looked back at Lan Chang''an with her starry eyes.


    Her red lips pursed slightly, revealing a hint of puzzlement and curiosity on her face.


    During that period of unconsciousness, she had felt as if she had fallen into an endless darkness, powerless to return. But at the crucial moment, a strand of pale green warmth had pulled her out of the abyss.


    The details were not very clear, so she did not mention it to Mu Renglong, nor did she feel it appropriate to directly ask Lan Chang''an.


    "Take care, Miss."


    Seeing Mu Xiuyun''s unspoken thoughts, Lan Chang''an smiled and waved goodbye.


    ...


    "Finally, I can check the spoils of battle!"


    After confirming Mu Renglong and Mu Xiuyun had gone far enough, Lan Chang''an returned alone to the wooden hut in the herb garden andid down a fewyers of restrictive spells.


    He took out Ge Yi''s storage pouch and spent some time breaking through the sealing spells on it.


    When the storage pouch opened, his eyes immediately lit up.


    "As expected of an Elder Dan, it''s brimming with riches!"

 Chapter 23: Magical Weapons and Spirit Pet

    Chapter 23: Magical Weapons and Spirit Pet


    Inside Ge Yi''s storage pouch, there were three to four hundred spirit stones, which was not too many for ahigh endpill master.


    The truly valuable items were the medicinal herbs and pills. Just the precious herbs alone were worth at least one thousand spirit stones.


    "This old guy doesn''t know how much he has embezzled." Lan Chang''an smiled and clicked his tongue. The various bottles and jars contained mainly first-rank pills, worth a few hundred spirit stones.


    There were two middle-grade magical weapons, the ck and flying shuttle that Ge Yi had used in battle. Among them, the ck had a slight mind-confusing effect and could be used for both attack and defense, trapping enemies. It was quiteprehensive.


    Among the middle-grade artifacts, it was considered an excellent item. There were also three other low-grade artifacts, all of decent quality.


    There was one alchemy furnace, including pill forms, books in the field of alchemy, and so on.


    "A superior-grade first-rank alchemy furnace, not bad..." Lan Chang''an stroked the deep purple hexagonal furnace, nodding in satisfaction.


    In this life, he was limited by the Evergreen Technique''s ability to draw on the Qi of the Ages, so although his advancement was slow, he only needed to cultivate for one or two hours a day after taking the pills, giving him a lot of free time. He was nning to use this opportunity to practice some other skills as well.


    All the above spoils of war belonged to Ge Yi. There was also a small flying boat that Zheng Yuanhua lent to Ge Yi.Flying boats, which were specialized flying magic weapons, were considerably faster than magic weapons of the same rank.


    The small flying boat Lan Chang''an obtained could carry three to five people. Of course, the more people it carried, the slower its flying speed and the higher its mana consumption would be.


    ......


    The spoils of war were quite rich.


    Ge Yi''s worth far exceeded that of an ordinaryte Qi-Refining cultivator. However, most of the valuable medicinal herbs were stolen goods that couldn''t be taken out openly in the Mu family, Including Ge Yi''s ck magical weapon.


    Those precious medicinal ingredients were sealed in jade boxes. If left for too long, their medicinal properties would inevitably dissipate, causing the herbs to wither.


    "In the future, I''ll have to find an opportunity to sell off these stolen goods." Lan Chang''an calcted in his heart.


    There were many misceneous items in Ge Yi''s storage pouch, including some letters and materials. Lan Chang''an carefully sorted through them, remaining vignt and removing any suspicious items.


    During the sorting process, Lan Chang''an made an unexpected gain.


    "Oh! This is Marrow Corroding Powder, and there''s also the antidote." Two small ck and white jars in the corner of the storage pouch were identified by Lan Chang''an through his spiritual sense after several tests.


    It was an unexpected delight.


    Previously, due to material limitations, the mixed poison Lan Chang''an had concocted was not particrly potent.


    However, the Marrow Corroding Powder was different, it held great killing power against Qi-Refining cultivators.


    Only those with deep cultivation in thete Qi-Refining stage could resist it slightly, or people like Mu Xiuyin who hadpoison resistingtreasures could defend against its lethality.


    The Marrow Corroding Powder was notpletely odorless, with aslightbitter herbal smell. It would blend in naturally in an herbal garden or mountain forest environment.


    Lan Chang''an''s n wasto apply the Marrow Corroding Powder onto the Seven Ingenious Needles and use them as hidden weapons, injuring the target and allowing the poison to enter through the wound, making it even more vicious and faster-acting.


    Apart from the Marrow Corroding Powder, Lan Chang''an had another unexpected gain. It was a brass-colored token with a deep ck bead embedded in the center.


    "This is... a Beast Taming Token!" With his memories from two lifetimes, Lan Chang''an recognized its origins after a brief examination.


    "Could it be that..." Lan Chang''an had a guess and injected his mana into the Beast Taming Token. Immediately, he sensed a consciousness rippleing from a certain direction underground.


    So that was it!


    Lan Chang''an smiled and headed to a corner of the herbal garden, between some fields.


    Poof!


    The soil burst open, and a hugebrownish yellowrat demon emerged.


    It was the Earth Burrowing Rat. Previously, this Earth Burrowing Rat had unexpectedly attacked Lan Chang''an.


    Unable to deal with it in a shortperiod of timeusing conventional means, Lan Chang''an had no choice but to bind it with the Restricting Vine Technique.


    "Squeak! Squeak..."


    The Earth Burrowing Rat''s eyes shed red light as it fearfully looked at Lan Chang''an, or more precisely, the Beast Taming Token in his hand.


    This Beast Taming Token could decide the Earth Burrowing Rat''s life or death. Possessing this token also allowed for simple mentalmunication and issuingmands.


    "The Earth Burrowing Rat has a middle-grade bloodline, and there''s a matching Beast Taming Token. It was likely purchased at a high price by the Zheng Family from the Beast Taming Zhou Family." Lan Chang''an''s thoughts raced as he deduced.


    In this world, demons and beasts were different from human cultivators in that they did not have spiritual roots. Theycultivatedthrough inherited bloodlines. The higher the bloodline grade, the greater the potential.


    Their bloodline grades corresponded to the ranks of human cultivators'' spiritual roots, from low to high:


    Mixed Bloodline, Low-grade Bloodline, Middle-grade Bloodline, High-grade Bloodline, Earth-grade Bloodline, Heaven-grade Bloodline.


    And the legendary True Spirit Bloodline.


    True Spirits were the so-called divine beasts, such as True Dragons, Celestial Phoenixes, and Kunpeng. In the ancient Immortal Cultivation books, there were horrific legends of True Spirits destroying entire realms with unimaginable might.


    In Lan Chang''an''s previous two lifetimes, he had never even heard of a True Spirit, let alone witnessed one.


    "The Earth Burrowing Rat is in the upper ranks of the middle-grade bloodline. It can be cultivated appropriately."


    Lan Chang''an valued the Earth Burrowing Rat''s practicality. It was adept at digging tunnels, knew earth-based spells, and had a tough hide.


    During the Qi-Refining stage, the Earth Burrowing Rat could lie in ambush underground, providing a formidable defense.


    "You will continue to stay underground nearby. Do note up without my permission." Lan Chang''an fed the Earth Burrowing Rat a few first-rank pills and sent it back underground.


    This Earth Burrowing Rat was a first-rank mid-stage demon beast, equivalent to the sixthyer of Qi-Refining cultivation.


    If resources were invested, there was a good chance it could advance to thetefirst-stage, equivalent to thete Qi-Refining stage.


    At that time, this little fellow''s strength would be enough to match an ordinary elder of the Mu Family.


    ......


    Deep into the night.


    On a certain mountain slope thousands of miles away from the Mu Family''s herbal garden.


    "This is thest agreed-upon location, but there''s still no sign of Pill Master Ge."


    "Could he have encountered an ident and been killed by a hidden expert from the Mu Family?" A middle-aged man with a slightly disheveled aura, wearing a tall mountain hat,nded on the mountain slope and murmured to himself.


    After investigating for a while and calling out, there was still no trace of Ge Yi.


    Zheng Yuanhua''s face was cloudy, feeling quite reluctant. If Pill Master Ge had perished, it would undoubtedly be a great loss. In addition, the flying boat and Beast Taming Token that the Zheng Family had purchased at a high price were on his person.


    Losing these two items would not be a small loss for the Zheng Family.


    "Cough, cough..."


    A faint coughing sound came from a distant mountain cave. If it weren''t for the deep silence of the night, Zheng Yuanhua might have missed it.


    "Who''s there? Is that Pill Master Ge?" Zheng Yuanhua''s expression brightened, flying towards the direction of the coughing sound. Perhaps it was the heavily injured Pill Master Ge?


    The coughing sound became increasingly clear.


    Soon, a ck mountain cave appeared before Zheng Yuanhua. At the cave entrance sat a disheveled man coughing, with a puddle of blood at his feet.


    "Who are you?" Zheng Yuanhua took one look and determined that this was not Pill Master Ge, his heart filling with wariness.


    Under the moonlight, he could vaguely make out the man''s pale face, straight nose, cracked lips, and a pair of deep ck, lifeless eyes.


    Hearing Zheng Yuanhua''s voice, the disheveled man stared straight at him.


    "Cough, do you have any medicine?"


    "What medicine? Who are you, and what have you done to Pill Master Ge?"


    Zheng Yuanhua was on high alert, as the magical aura emanating from the disheveled man was strange.


    At times it was strong, at times weak. When weak, it was only at the fourth or fifthyer ofQi-Refining. When strong, it reached the eighth or ninthyer of Qi-Refining, or even more terrifyingly powerful.


    He sensed an aura of danger.


    Summoning aniron woodbanner, he stirred up ayer ofdarkpurple windstorm that could both attack enemies and defend himself.


    The disheveled man remained unmoved, continuing to cough. But his lifeless eyes stared unblinkingly at Zheng Yuanhua.


    "ying tricks!" Zheng Yuanhua felt a chill run down his spine from that gaze and cursed, maneuvering his weapon to turn and flee.


    He had only flown a few dozen zhang when a gust of ominous wind attacked from behind.


    "Get lost!" Zheng Yuanhua''s heart was gripped by dread. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the disheveled man ghostly appearing behind him.


    Whoosh!


    Without a second thought, he swung hisiron woodbanner, the purple windstorm capable of crushing iron and stone engulfing the area dozens of zhang behind him.


    The disheveled man was swallowed up.


    However, there was only an afterimage left in his original spot.


    "Ugh..."


    A long male arm locked around Zheng Yuanhua''s neck.


    A suffocating sensation overtook him. Zheng Yuanhua struggled fiercely but soon cked out.


    "Medicine..."


    The disheveled man removed Zheng Yuanhua''s storage pouch, and his fingertips flicked out a few wisps of scarlet arcs of electricity, breaking open the sealed pouch.


    He took out bottle after bottle of pills and precious spirit herbs.


    Sniffing them, he poured a few bottles of pills into his mouth, eating them like candy. He also crudely bit and swallowed mouthfuls of several highly nourishing potent spirit herbs.


    After a moment, the man''s inner magical power surged, and a tinge of color returned to his pale face. His magical power fluctuated, soaring to the Foundation Establishment stage before plummeting again.


    "Still not enough..." The man coughed once more, his icy gaze falling upon the unconscious Zheng Yuanhua. His long fingers glowed scarlet as he pressed them against Zheng Yuanhua''s crown.


    "Ah..."


    Zheng Yuanhua''s body rose into the air, his limbs thrashing as he let out agonizingscreams,as if wishing for death.


    "Mu Family...Zheng Family...herbal garden...treasure vault..."


    The disheveled man closed his eyes, forcefully invading Zheng Yuanhua''s soul to obtain fragmented memories and information.


    After a long while.


    "Crack!" With a sickening sound, Zheng Yuanhua''s head split into two, his anguished screams abruptly ceasing in the depths of the silent mountain.

 Chapter 24: Turning of the Tide

    Chapter 24: Turning of the Tide


    Mu Family''s Herb Garden.


    The next day, Lan Chang''an moved into the former residence of Pill Master Ge.


    This residence originally belonged to the guards stationed at the herb garden, but Ge Yi had upied it due to his superior status.


    Before leaving, Mu Renlong had searched Ge Yi''s residence but didn''t find anything valuable left behind.


    Lan Chang''an moved in for privacy and the spacious space. It was convenient for him to draw talismans, study alchemy, and cultivate his spirit pet.


    Beneath the basement of the residence was a concealed small tunnel that an adult could not pass through. This was the Earth Burrowing Rat''s exclusive passage.


    Over the next two days, the additional personnel sent by the Mu Family gradually arrived.


    Apart from ordinary farmers and servants, there were only six cultivators. After observing them, Lan Chang''an inwardly shook his head, summing them up in eight words: Old, weak, sick, and disabled, yin prevailing over yang.


    There were four young cultivators at the first and secondyers of Qi-Refining, three of whom were little girls.An old woman at the fourthyer of Qi-Refining with blurred vision, her life nearing its end, was responsible for tending to the herbs.


    There was also a youth with a limp, dark skin, and a walking stick.


    Oh, this limping youth was Li Ergou.


    Two months ago, Li Ergou had broken his leg on the front lines and was given half a year of recuperation time by his family.


    Coincidentally, the herb garden was short-staffed, so he was transferred here to recuperate.


    "Brother Lan, you truly live up to your reputation as a renowned martial artist, joining forces with the Young Lady to fend off that seventhyer Qi-Refining traitor!"


    Upon meeting, Li Ergou eximed endlessly, inquiring about the details of that day.


    Those few young girls in the early stages of Qi-Refining had pure gazes filled with admiration, as well as a hint of gossipy curiosity.


    Joining forces to fend off?


    Lan Chang''an nodded slightly: "It was mainly thanks to the Young Lady; I was only providing a distraction on the side."


    The Mu Family''s external propaganda aligned with Lan Chang''an''s expectations.


    He had some guesses as to the specific reasons.


    Firstly, it wasn''t ideal to reveal details about the Mu Family''s daughter being in aa to outsiders.


    This could lead to spection and harm their reputation.


    It was better to simply state that the two of them joined forces to defeat Ge Yi.


    Secondly, it could elevate the Mu Family''s daughter''s reputation and establish her merit within the n.


    Since Mu Xiuyin had higher cultivation and was the Young Lady, it would be easier for outsiders to understand her being the main force behind defeating Ge Yi.


    "Oh right! Brother Lan, these are letters from Zhao Siyao and Lin Yi."


    Li Ergou handed over two letters.


    Over the past year that Lan Chang''an had been stationed at the herb garden, any letters from outside had been sent to the n''s headquarters.


    Major forces primarily used servants, messengers, and carrier pigeons for correspondence. At the top of a cultivation sect, there were more advanced means ofmunication.


    ......


    Lan Chang''an first read Lin Yi''s two letters.


    The first letter congratted Lan Chang''an on bing a first-rank Talisman Master. It mentioned the conflict between the Mu and Zheng Families, implicitly indicating that he didn''t think highly of the Mu Family and asked Lan Chang''an to to be cautious.


    The second letter, sentst month, stated that Lin Yi had organized a secr force called the ''Hidden Immortal Pavilion''.


    This force mainly served cultivators, with a small number of scattered cultivators as its backbone, it absorbed secr martial arts experts and gathered various kinds of intelligence, searching for cultivation resources and treasures left behind in the mortal world.


    In the future, the Hidden Immortal Pavilion was considering doing business for wandering cultivators, acting as errand runners for sect disciples and establishing connections.


    "The idea is not bad," Lan Chang''an pondered.


    In the letter, Lin Yi invited Lan Chang''an to join, offering him the position of Deputy Pavilion Master.


    If Lan Chang''an declined to join, Lin Yi wouldn''t force himself.


    At the end of the letter, Lin Yi requested that Lan Chang''an sell him a batch of basic talismans and low-grade first-rank talismans at a reasonable price to aid the Hidden Immortal Pavilion''s initial development.


    Naturally, Lan Chang''an would not refuse. Previously, Lin Yi had also helped him, such as gathering information about the Mu Family and introducing him to the wandering cultivators'' exchange market.


    In his reply, Lan Chang''an agreed to provide Lin Yi with twenty basic talismans and ten low-grade first-rank talismans at the bulk purchase price of a shop in the marketce.


    As for joining the Hidden Immortal Pavilion, Lan Chang''an did not agree. However, maintaining a cooperative rtionship was fine.


    This would allow Lan Chang''an to have another channel for obtaining intelligence from the lower levels of the cultivation world.


    ......


    Next, he opened Zhao Siyao''s letter.


    Zhao Siyao inquired about Lan Chang''an''s recent situation and mentioned her general circumstances in the sect. Zhao Siyao also knew that he had be a Talisman Master and expressed her delight in the letter.


    "Seventhyer of Qi-Refining? Preparing topete for the core disciple position?"


    Lan Chang''an caught a key piece of information.


    The core disciples of Golden Cloud Valley had to be under forty years old, with only thirty spots avable.


    Most of them were eighth or ninthyer Qi-Refining experts. Zhao Siyao was nning to try for a spot after reaching the eighthyer of Qi-Refining.


    In Jin Yun Valley, the biggest advantage of being a core disciple was having priority over ordinary disciples in obtaining Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Lan Chang''an did not have high hopes for Zhao Siyao.


    Firstly, Zhao Siyao''s aptitude was not significantly superior to the core disciples. Core disciples generally had at least a middle-grade spiritual root, with a few possessing a high-grade spiritual root.


    Secondly, Zhao Siyao did not have any advantages in terms of background, even though her ancestors included cultivators. It wasn''t evenparable to disciples whose parents were wandering cultivators.


    In the cultivation world, the "reliance on connections" phenomenon was severe. Without the assistance of powerful elders, one wouldg far behind in resources from the start.


    Zhao Siyao''s only advantage was her exceptional beauty and temperament, which made her stand out among female cultivators.


    However, this kind of beautiful female disciple, if she didn''t attach herself to a disciple with a background, sometimes it would bring trouble instead.


    ......


    In his reply to Zhao Siyao, Lan Chang''an included three middle-grade talismans, one of which was of prime quality, best among the same grade.


    These three talismans more than repaid the ten spirit stones he had borrowed from her in the past. By using talismans to repay the debt, Lan Chang''an not only maintained their rtionship but also showcased his value to Zhao Siyao.


    Only an experienced first-rank Talisman Master could potentially refine a prime quality middle-grade first-rank talisman, and the chances were very low.


    "With Zhao Siyao''s intelligence, she may be hoping that I would help her out in the future by mentioning her intention topete for the core disciple position in advance." This letter could be a prelude of sorts.


    Should he help Zhao Siyao?


    Lan Chang''an believed that he could make an appropriate investment, because this would be a low-risk, high-return investment.


    At her current stage, Zhao Siyao had yet to truly grow and develop, making it an opportune time to lend a helping hand. Once she became a core disciple, her chances of reaching the Foundation Establishment stage would be significantly higher than ordinary cultivators.


    Suppose Lan Chang''an supported Zhao Siyao with 100 spirit stones, with Li Ergou and Lin Yi each lending 50 spirit stones.


    A total of 200 spirit stones would not be a small amount for ate Qi-Refining cultivator, approaching the value of a middle-grade magical weapon, but what if Zhao Siyao sessfully established her Foundation in the future, would 200 spirit stones matter? It would simply be a congrattory gift.


    At that time, Lan Chang''an and the other two would have a Foundation Establishment expert as a backing. If they wished to establish their own Foundations in the future, they would have the support of a powerful cultivator.


    Even if Zhao Siyao failed to establish her Foundation, the loss of those spirit stones would not be a significant blow to Lan Chang''an''s current wealth.


    Moreover, as long as she did not perish during her Foundation Establishment attempt, the borrowed spirit stones...would still have to be returned.


    ......


    After the personnel at the herb garden was replenished, Lan Chang''an instructed those few young Mu Family girls on patrolling, raising alerts, and using formations.


    These girls, who had just emerged from being spirit root disciples, did not understand many things. Lan Chang''an often had to teach them step-by-step.


    Fortunately, in this life, Lan Chang''an had cultivated the Evergreen Technique, maintaining a good temperament without losing his temper.


    "Did you hear? The family head has returned, and the marriage alliance with the Maple Leaf Huang Family fell through!"


    "Fell through? What happened?"


    During their break, the three young Mu Family girls gossiped.


    "Originally, our Mu Family wanted to marry the Young Lady to Huang Yu, the young master of the Huang Family, to push cooperation between the two families. However, the Huang Family was extremely arrogant and refused to give the Young Lady the status of a first wife, at most giving her the position of a concubine wife."


    "Outrageous! The Young Lady is so aplished and even a Talisman Master... The Huang Family showed no sincerity at all."


    "Well, the Huang Family has three Foundation Establishment experts, and their young master has a high-grade spiritual root, so they do have reason to be arrogant."


    ......


    With his keen senses, Lan Chang''an overheard the girls'' gossipy chatter.


    Having been born into a cultivation family in his previous life, he could understand the Huang Family''s actions.


    He even vaguely guessed at the Huang Family''s scheme...but there was nothing he could do. The Maple Leaf Huang Family was far more powerful, and the Mu Family was currently in a precarious and weakened state. The status between the two families waspletely unequal.


    The surrounding cultivation families watched the conflict between the Mu and Zheng Families with cold detachment. The scales of victory were tipping in favor of the Zheng Family.


    ......


    However, ten dayster, an astonishing piece of news arrived.


    Elder Zheng Yuanhua of the Zheng Family had met with a mysterious death!


    Zheng Yuanhua, at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, was one of the top Qi-Refining experts of the Zheng Family.


    The Mu Family rejoiced, seemingly confirming the uracy of the news. The Mu Family had inside agents within the Zheng Family, though of low status.


    For a family elder like Zheng Yuanhua, there would typically be a soul token within the n. If he died outside, the family would immediately be notified.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that there was a certaing in this news.


    "How did Zheng Yuanhua die? I heard that even his body wasn''t found?"


    Lan Chang''an felt perplexed. The Beast Taming Token and flying boat in his storage pouch hade from this person, so he was quite concerned.


    Based on Lan Chang''an''s experience, it would be difficult to kill Zheng Yuanhua, at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, without thebined efforts of two or three experts of the same level or a Foundation Establishment expert striking directly.


    Defeating someone and killing them were two different concepts.


    With his death, the situation had reversed!


    The Mu Family took a hardline stance at the frontline mining regions. Although the Mu Family''s young and middle-aged cultivators were no match for the Zheng Family, they now held a clear advantage in terms of high-level elder ssbat power.


    Zheng Yuanhua''s position was equivalent to Mu Renlong in the Mu Family, which speaks volumes.


    Soon after, news arrived from the frontlines.


    The ancestors of the Zheng and Mu Families had restarted negotiations and reached an agreement.


    Both sides ceased hostilities. The Zheng Family made concessions, agreeing to jointly supervise and evenly divide Purple Copper ore''s byproduct ore, Purple Heart Copper.


    ......


    On this day, Lan Chang''an stood atop a mountain peak, gazing into the distance at Moonheart Ind in the center of Feiyue Lake.


    "He''s back."


    He sensed the aura of the Mu Family ancestor returning from afar.


    This confirmed the news from the frontlines.


    The conflict between the two cultivation families seemed to being to an end.

 Chapter 25: The Demonic Cultivator Liang Shaotian

    Chapter 25: The Demonic Cultivator Liang Shaotian


    With the two cultivation families ceasing hostilities and making peace, the situation temporarily stabilized. However, Lan Chang''an, residing in the Mu Family, was not optimistic.


    He confirmed that the Mu Family ancestor only had three to five years left to live. The Zheng Family''s ceasefire might allow them to wait a few more years and outlive the Mu Patriarch. However, it was said that the Zheng Family Patriarch''s lifespan was also limited to only ten or twenty years.


    Lan Chang''an would often go to the mountaintops to sense the Mu Family''s Old Ancestor''s condition from afar. If the Mu Family Patriarch were about to die one day, he woulddefinitelyknow before the Mu Family''s higher-ups.


    He could do this by relying on the soul imprint of his first life recorded in the Nine Seals Stele, as well as the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique''s keen sensitivity to breaths of longevity.


    "huh? Howe it''s gone again?"


    Three dayster, standing on a towering peak, Lan Chang''an''s expression suddenly changed.


    The MuFamilyOld Ancestor had returned to Moonheart Ind for only three days before disappearing from Lan Chang''an''s perception once more.


    This was something that even an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator would not be able to detect.


    What Lan Chang''an did not know was that on the same day, the Second Elder Mu Renlong had also vanished mysteriously from the Mu Family.Three hundred miles away from the Mu Family''s herb garden, two figures in ck robes and bamboo hats, one in front and one behind, quietly departed the Mu Family''s premises under the cover of night, riding spirit horses.


    "Forget it, the two families have ceased hostilities anyway."


    Unable to figure it out, Lan Chang''an stopped dwelling on it. Perhaps the Mu Family ancestor was concealing his aura, or he had gone out on business.


    ......


    Lan Chang''an and the Mu Family were unaware that at this moment, the Zheng Family, three thousand miles away, was facing a catastrophic cmity!


    A few hundred miles away from the Zheng Family''s residence, there was an herb garden built along a river,parable in scale to the Mu Family''s.


    Currently, ominous clouds shrouded the vast herb garden, with cries of anguish and screams echoing out.


    "Demonic cultivator! Run quickly..."


    "This person is at least at the ninth level of Qi-Refining, we cannot match him. Hurry and call for help from the Family!"


    In the depths of the herb garden, a disheveled man floated in mid-air, enveloped inckaura, revealing half of his pale face.


    "Sir, you should reconsider. Our Zheng Family has a Foundation Establishment Patriarch guarding it."


    On the ground, a sixthyerQi-Refiningherb garden guard knelt defiantly, refusing to yield even in the face of death.


    "Noisy!" The disheveled man raised his eyelids, revealing chilling ck pupils.


    Swish!


    A sickle-shaped crimson-ck beam of light swept past, slicing the herb garden guard in half at the waist.


    As for the fleeing low-level Qi-Refining cultivators and ordinary servants, the disheveled man couldn''t be bothered to look at them. He simply extended his pale, slender hand, plucking precious spirit herbs from afar.


    After a moment, having harvested a bountiful yield, the disheveled man flewtowardsthe direction of the Zheng Family''s residence.


    "Audacious! How dare you plunder the Zheng Family''s herb garden!"


    From the direction of the Zheng Family, twote Qi-Refining cultivators flew over, shouting furiously.


    One was at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, the other at the ninthyer.


    The portly middle-aged man at the ninthyer bore a seven-tenths resemnce to the deceased Zheng Yuanhua.


    He was the Zheng Family head, Zheng Yuanqing.


    "Audacious? I still n to take a look at the Zheng Family''s treasure vault." The disheveled manughed coldly, wrapping himself inckaura and leaving only an afterimage behind.


    In the next moment, his pale hand whipped up a whirlwind of ck des, howling towards the two men.


    "Not good! Foundation Establishment Realm!"


    Zheng Yuanqing''s face drained of color in shock. Without a second thought, he pped down two superior-grade talismans and summoned two defensive artifacts, retreating while defending.


    "Ah!"


    A scream rang out as theeighthyerQi-Refining elder beside him had his middle-grade defensive artifact sliced in two by the ck de, his mana force shield instantly shattering.


    His entire body was shredded into a bloodstained mist by theck dewindstorm.


    "ck de Windstorm! You are... Liang Shaotian?"


    Zheng Yuanqing''s scalp went numb, his face drained of color as he panicked. The protective barriers of the two superior-grade talismans in front of him shattered in an instant, and one of his defensive artifacts had already been destroyed.


    Faced with imminent death, he was utterly despairing.


    "Oh? Youactuallyknow this Liang''s name?" The disheveled man unexpectedly stopped his assault, sping his hands behind his back and looking at Zheng Yuanqing with slight surprise.


    "Liang Shaotian''s mighty reputation has reached even my ears." Zheng Yuanqing, having narrowly escaped death, was drenched in cold sweat.


    "What is your status in the Zheng Family?" The disheveled man revealed half of his sinister face, appearing evil and unpredictable.


    "I am the Zheng Family head." Zheng Yuanqing said, his body hunched over.


    "Hmm, lead me to the treasure vault," the disheveled man ordered.


    "What! The treasure vault... Yes, yes!"


    Before the disheveled man could change his expression, Zheng Yuanqing immediately agreed and obediently led the way.


    Only then did the disheveled man nod in satisfaction.


    As they approached the Zheng Family''s residence, a Foundation Establishment Realm magical pressure descended upon them. A scorching aura permeated the air.


    "Liang Shaotian, why have you plundered my Zheng Family''s herb garden and ughtered my Zheng Family''s cultivators?"


    Amid the clouds, an elderly figure in a gray robe, treading on crimson clouds, angrily rebuked.


    "Those were simply spoils that Liang took through hisownability! Those who get in the way naturally have to die." The disheveled man showed no concern as he formed another whirlwind of ck des in his palm.


    "You''ve gone too far!" The Zheng Family Patriarch waved his wide sleeve, sending forth an iron fan.


    With a wave of the iron fan, six zing fan shadows split off, charging towards the disheveled man.


    "Zheng Ancestor, if you can withstand ten of my strikes without dying, this Liang will immediately withdraw." The disheveled man waved his palm, and the ck de windstorm was now interwoven with arcs of lightning, crackling fiercely.


    Winds and thunder intertwined, exuding a chilling demonic aura.


    The six zing fan shadows instantly shattered.


    In the next moment, the disheveled man split into three, enveloping the area with rolling ck winds as he descended upon the clouds, forcing the Zheng Family Patriarch to retreat continuously.


    "Junior... Stop! This old man admits defeat!"


    Soon, the terrified voice of the Zheng Family Patriarch rang out from amidst the clouds.


    The disheveled man remained unmoved, his eyes shing coldly as his assault grew increasingly ferocious.


    "Liang Shaotian, please show mercy. It was this old man who didn''t know what was good for him..." The Zheng Family Patriarch''s voice grew increasingly humble and deferential.


    The disheveled man finally stopped his assault, saying indifferently, "Take me to see my treasure vault."


    "Yes, yes, this treasure vault has been prepared for Liang Shaotian by our Zheng Family for many years..." The Zheng Family ancestor forced a smile, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.


    Half an hourter, under the respectful escort of the Zheng Family members, the disheveled man left the Zheng Family''s treasure vault.


    "By the way, Liang Shaotian. The Mu Family, two to three thousand miles away from our Zheng Family, hastreasurevault and herb garden reserves that slightly surpass even ours..." Before seeing him off, the Zheng Family Patriarch "kindly" reminded him.


    The Zheng Family had suffered a cmity, encountering this terrifying demonic cultivator. They hoped the rival Mu Family would also taste such misfortune.


    "There''s no need for you to teach Liang how to do things."


    The disheveled man left those cold words behind as he flew towards the distant mountains.


    Until hended in a mountain valley.


    Poof!


    The disheveled man spat out a mouthful of blood, copsing to the ground with a coughing fit. His cultivation level had also plummeted back to the Qi-Refining stage.


    "Cough! These precious herbs, there are too few suitable to heal my wounds..."


    ......


    Two dayster.


    The Mu Family''s Moonheart Ind.


    "Is the information reliable?"


    "The demonic cultivator Liang Shaotian, who is wanted in the northern regions of the Liang Kingdom, hasactuallyplundered the Zheng Family!"


    "The Zheng Family''s herb garden and treasure vault were both plundered by Liang Shaotian. It''s said that this fiend kills anyone he encounters."


    "The Zheng Family Patriarch was injured, and one of their elders was in by Liang Shaotian."


    The severalte Qi-Refining higher-ups of the Mu Family were in an uproar. This news was truly inconceivable.


    "It''s a pity Old Ancestor and Elder Renlong are not here. Otherwise, we could have killed our way to the Zheng Family at this moment..."


    "Since Liang Shaotian did nopletelydestroy the Zheng Family, is there a possibility that he mighte to plunder our herb garden and treasure vault?"


    A gentle and graceful woman''s voice came through. The speaker was none other than Mu Xiuyun, whose cultivation had reached the seventhyer ofQi-Refining.


    During the previous incident where she helped fend off Pill Master Ge and protected the herb garden, the family had recordeda meritfor her and rewarded her with a grade-increasing pill.


    "Xiuyun, you mean Liang Shaotian dares to attack our Mu Family? Isn''t he afraid of being pursued by the sect''s experts?" The family head Mu Maode found it hard to believe. If it were him, aftermitting such an atrocity, he would definitelyy low and keep a low profile for a while.


    "It''s said that this person is exceptionally rampant and brutal. We cannot afford to let our guard down," one of the elders said.


    "Quickly reinforce the formations and sealing arrays of the treasure vault, and transfer some of our precious resources."


    "That''s right, we need to notify those at the herbal garden as soon as possible..."


    Before the words were finished, Mu Xiuyun had already taken flight, heading towards the herbal garden.


    ......


    Under the veil of night, Mu Xiuyun trod upon a silver ruler as she flew towards the herbal garden, a worried expression on her face.


    When she was still twenty to thirty miles away from the herb garden, Mu Xiuyun suddenly noticed a mass of ominous clouds in the distance, vaguely sensing a Foundation Establishment level pressure.


    It was hovering right above the herb garden.


    "No good! Lan Chang''an..." Mu Xiuyun''s pretty face turned pale as she froze in mid-air, her starry eyes filled with terror and sorrow.


    After a breath, she snapped out of her daze, biting her jade teeth as she changed directions, flying towards the family residence at top speed.


    ......


    "Come out, whoever is in charge of this herb garden!"


    The disheveled man floated in midair above the herb garden, his jet-ck, icy gaze fixated on the residential area.


    Upon arriving, there was not a single person within the herb garden. No one shouted defiance, no one fled in panic ¨C it was deathly silent.


    He immediately felt offended. The auras of living beings within the herb garden could not escape his senses.


    At this moment, in the basement of the residence, Lan Chang''an was inwardly cursing his predicament. Not long ago, he had been patrolling the herb garden when he suddenly sensed an immensely powerful demonic aura rapidly approaching.


    The speed was extreme, undoubtedly a Foundation Establishment expert. The sense of threat far surpassed that of the Mu Family Ancestor, it was definitely not the Zheng Family Ancestor either.


    In the blink of an eye, Lan Chang''an made a decision. He ordered everyone within the herb garden to hide.


    Hehimselfhid in the basement of the residence, activating the Ancient Wood Longevity Technique to transform into a withered piece of wood, devoid of any presence.


    Based on his experience, there were two possibilities:


    One, the demonic Foundation Establishment expert was just passing through.


    If Lan Chang''an revealed himself and tried to flee, it might arouse the other party''s interest. With the other party''s speed, no one in the herb garden could outrun them if given chase.


    Two, he hade for the herb garden,with the intention of plunderingprecious spirit herbs. In that case, insignificant ants like them at the early andmid Qi-Refiningstages would be spared if they simply hid, as the other party would be toozy to hunt them down one by one.


    Events proved that it was the second scenario. After arriving at the herb garden, the demonic cultivator headed straight for the herb fields, showing no intention to kill.


    Just as Lan Chang''an was breathing a sigh of relief, unexpectedly, this person did not immediately search for and plunder the precious medicinal ingredients.


    Instead, for some unknown reason, he felt dissatisfied and demanded that the person in charge of the herb garden show themselves. <ul> <li>Your feedback and ratings are greatly appreciated. If you have a moment, please consider rating this novel on Novelupdates.</li> <li>Should you notice any errors in this chapter, kindly mention them in thements below so I can correct them. Thank you!</li> </ul>

 Chapter 26: Which Senior

    Chapter 26: Which Senior


    Chapter 26 Which Senior


    "Garden Master,e out and meet me."


    The entire herb garden was deadly silent, without a single person.


    Except for the floating disheveled man in the air.


    With an unruffled expression and a chilling gaze, he fixed his eyes on the residential area.


    The night was as cool as water, and the only dozen or so people in the herb garden, including cultivators and mortals, all hid in the secluded corners of the residential area.


    Under the demonic aura of a Foundation Establishment cultivator, everyone didn''t dare let out even a breath.


    Noting out?


    The disheveled man waited for a few moments, his expression darkening.If the other party obediently came out and showed utmost respect, his temperament would most likely prevent him from killing.


    "Since you''re noting out, Liang will drag you out." The disheveled man''s voice was ice-cold, and his pupils flickered with a sinister red light.


    Earth-Shaking Demonic Sound!


    The disheveled man''s hair fluttered, and he closed his eyes tightly, murmuring incantations.


    In an instant, an invisible demonic soundwave, with him as the center, swept toward every nook and cranny around the residential area.


    "Ahh..."


    The living beings swept by the mental soundwave experienced a sensation of theearth shaking, screaming in agony, exposing their positions, and then bleeding from their mouths and noses before passing out.


    Li Ergou and several other cultivators couldn''t withstand it for more than two breaths before howling and fainting.


    "These weaklings should not be the Garden Master."


    The disheveled man''s "Earth-Shaking Demonic Sound" was a secret technique for spiritual searching, adept at probing for living beings hiding in buildings.


    As long as they had a spiritualconsciousness,unless their cultivation was far superior to his, they could hardly avoid it.


    "Hiding quite deeply?"


    The courtyard where Lan Chang''an was located was also a target of the disheveled man''s search, and the demonic mental soundwave permeated into the basement.


    Huh!


    The disheveled man revealed a strange expression, almost mistaking Lan Chang''an for a rotten log. Not only that, after being swept by the Earth-Shaking Demonic Sound, Lan Chang''an only let out a muffled groan, with no major reaction.


    "Interesting." The disheveled man slowly descended toward the courtyard, extending his white, delicate palm, with a cruel smile on his lips. Just as he was about to apprehend and kill his target, an unimaginable scene appeared at this moment.


    "Daring junior!"


    From beneath the courtyard, a spiritual pressure far exceeding that of an ordinary Foundation Establishment Realm cultivator emerged, apanied by the sonorous voice of an old man, charging straight into the disheveled man''s heart and mind.


    "Foundation Establishment?" The disheveled man''s mindwavered,and immediately sensed a dangerous aura.


    Soul-Severing de!


    An invisible de of spiritual sense, carrying a bizarre trembling wave, shed into the disheveled man''s mind.


    "Ah! Hiss!"


    The disheveled man''s face turned pale, and he almost fell into the courtyard, painfully clutching his forehead.


    A drop of bloodytearflowed from the corner of his eye. Only then did a young man in white robes appear a few zhang away.


    The young man wasclearlyonly at the middle stage of Qi-Refining, yet he carried an aura of antiquity and strength, even stronger than the disheveled man by half a notch.


    "Dare I ask, which senior it is?" The disheveled man steadied himself, astonished and puzzled.


    This young man had just employed a profound secret art of spiritual sense, damaging his mind, and almost triggering his old wounds.


    Spiritual sense secret art, even ordinary Core Formation elders may not be able to learn.


    How could it appear on the young man in front of him?


    Furthermore, he felt that there seemed to be an additional soul aura on this young man. The disheveled man had some guesses in his mind.


    "This old man is Yan Doni! A Nascent Soul Great Spirit from an era bygone."


    The young man in white robes stood with his hands behind his back, exuding an aura of antiquity and simplicity that could never be imitated by a mere Qi-Refining cultivator.


    A Nascent Soul Great Spirit! The disheveled man sucked in a mouthful of cold air, his heart shaken three times inwardly.


    No wonder this person knew profound secret arts of spiritual sense; even with spiritual sense only at the Foundation Establishment level, he had injured the disheveled man''s mind. To be called a Nascent Soul Great Spirit, he must be at least at thete stage of the Nascent Soul Realm.


    A great figure like this, even Nascent Soul True Monarchs of the me Departing Pce would have to respectfully address him as a senior.


    In the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom, let alone thete stage of Nascent Soul cultivators, not a single cultivatoratthe middle stage had emerged in thousands of years.


    "So it is Senior Yan. This junior has disturbed you, please forgive me." Liang Shaotian did not dare stand with his hands behind his back, and he cupped his fists respectfully. In his heart, he had some spections about Lan Chang''an''s current state.


    This young man might have the remnant soul of a Nascent Soul Great Spirit attached to him. Such an ancient monster, though extremely weak now, who knew how many mysterious and unfathomable methods he possessed.


    "Who are you and why have youe to disturb this ce?" Lan Chang''an stood with his hands behind his back, his eyesdeep and profound, interrogating him.


    At this moment.


    The "handsome young man" from the first life of the Nine Seal Stele detached from the first seal imprint, its light and shadow vividly manifesting, and merged into Lan Chang''an''s body.


    In his first life, Lan Chang''an''s cultivation had reached the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, with spiritual sense surpassing his realm, nearing the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an''s middle stage of Qi-Refining already surpassed that of an ordinaryte stage.


    The fusion of these two lives, coupled with the secret arts of spiritual sense from his second life, unleashed a terrifying spiritual intimidation, directly shaking the disheveled man.


    "In reply to Senior Yan, I am Liang Shaotian."


    The disheveled man did not dare to be negligent, respectfully answering:


    "This junior is a cultivator from the northernnds of the Liang Kingdom. Due to being framed by others, I was pursued and ambushed by the cultivation sects, sustaining severe injuries that caused my cultivation to plummet. This is why I was forced to resort to such measures..."


    "Liang Shaotian?"


    Lan Chang''an muttered, having never heard of this person''s name.


    "Your foundation has been damaged, and you cannot replenish it." He nced at Liang Shaotian again and shook his head.


    "Cannot replenish it? May I ask the senior how to treat it?" Liang Shaotian humbly asked for guidance.


    "You need Yin nourishment. Slowly recuperate, and do not consume too many spirit pills and spiritual herbs that are overly Yang in nature." Lan Chang''an calmly replied.


    Yin nourishment?


    Liang Shaotian pondered, then cupped his fists and said, "Thank you, Senior Yan, for your guidance. This junior has offended greatly and will take his leave now."


    Hearing that the demonic cultivator was leaving, Lan Chang''an secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    By borrowing the spiritual power of his first life''s soul, he could only unleash two instances of the spiritual sense attack he had used earlier, unable to truly threaten this Foundation Establishment demonic cultivator. After all, the spiritual power of the Qi-Refining realm was iparable to that of the Foundation Establishment realm.


    "Right, Senior Yan." Liang Shaotian flew out a few zhang, suddenly turning back, his gaze flickering as he looked over.


    "Could I take some of the precious spiritual herbs from the herb garden?" This sudden change made Lan Chang''an inwardly sigh that the demonic cultivator pup was cunning.


    Evidently,this person had some doubts about his strength and condition. This is why he spoke those probing words.


    At this moment, he could not show weakness and easily let Liang Shaotian take away the precious medicinal herbs. Otherwise, it would only allow the other party to gain an inch and see through his apprehension.


    Of course, he could not behave too arrogantly either, treating the other party like a fool to be scolded.


    If a Nascent Soul Grand Spirit had even one-tenth of his foundation, the spiritual sense attack earlier would have torn Liang Shaotian''s soul apart.


    Both parties were clear about this. It was just that they viewed each other with wariness.


    "Spiritual herbs, what do you have to trade?" Lan Chang''an replied impassively.


    "What does the Senior require?" Liang Shaotian''s hair flowed down his back, revealing a pale face with distinct features, a high bridged nose, slightly thin lips, and dark, chilling eyes.


    Lan Chang''an inwardly thought that this evil cultivator was also a handsome man.


    "Do you have any Foundation Establishment Pills?"


    "No." Liang Shaotian''s mouth curved slightly.


    He guessed that this Nascent Soul old monster was likely just a remnant soul, with iplete memories, and still had to pave the way for the young man he was possessing.


    "Alchemy inheritance, body refinement inheritance, puppetry inheritance... do you have any of these?" Lan Chang''an continued asking.


    "I don''t have a puppetry legacy. But I do have pill refinement and body cultivation legacies." Liang Shaotian took out two jade slips.


    Lan Chang''an enveloped the jade slips with his spiritual power and inspected them.


    He found that they contained a Foundation Establishment Realm pill refinement inheritance and a body refining technique called the ''Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual''.


    Lan Chang''an put away the jade slips, allowing Liang Shaotian to take a batch of precious spiritual herbs.


    "Senior Yan, a pleasant cooperation."


    Liang Shaotian revealed a smile, yet there was a sense of perversity.


    "This junior is currently facing and after this move, I will travel far away. I hope that in the future, I can still receive Senior Yan''s guidance..."


    With that, Liang Shaotian drifted away.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an stood with his hands behind his back until he confirmed that Liang Shaotian had left, only then releasing his hands.


    In his mind, the Nine Seal Stele.


    The first life''s seal imprint, which had finally been lit, was once again silent and lifeless.


    "Ergou..."


    Lan Chang''an checked on the condition of the cultivators in the herb garden.


    Fortunately, the "Earth-Shaking Demonic Sound" used by Liang Shaotian was only an auxiliary secret technique for searching, and none of the cultivators or mortals in the herb gardenhaddied.


    "It seems this demonic cultivator is not one who indiscriminately kills the innocent."


    Lan Chang''an knew that when Liang Shaotian used the Earth-Shaking DemonicSound,if he had been more overbearing, he could have at least killed those mortals.


    ...


    Not long after, Li Ergou and the other cultivators gradually woke up, looking utterly exhausted.


    "Big Brother Lan, where did that evil cultivator go? Did he give you any trouble?"


    Li Ergou was still shaken by the experience.


    "No, I was hiding in the basement earlier and suddenly passed out. It was probably because my cultivation is low that he didn''t think I was the Garden Master." Lan Chang''an''s reply was reasonable.


    Normally, a ce as important as the herb garden would have te stageQi-Refining cultivator as its master. Due to the war on the front lines, they had to temporarily lower the standards. The Zheng Family''s situation was slightly better, as they had dispatched a robust cultivator at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining.


    For the Mu Family to station Lan Chang''an, at only the fourthyer of Qi-Refining, as the guardian of the herb garden, the family head Mu Maode was also taking a gamble.


    "Hahaha! So having a low cultivation can also have its benefits."


    Li Ergou felt relieved that although the herb garden had suffered losses, everyone was safe and sound.


    After waiting for an hour.


    Lan Chang''an''s brow furrowed: "Why haven''t the reinforcements from the family arrived yet?"


    "You, go back and report the situation to the family." He instructed a young girl.

 Chapter 27: Two Foundation Establishment Cultivators

    Chapter 27: Two Foundation Establishment Cultivators


    Chapter 27 Two Foundation Establishment Cultivators


    "What! All the cultivators at the family''spound have disappeared?"


    An hourter, Lan Chang''an looked at the young girl from the Mu Family who had returned to report, doubting if he had heard correctly.


    Afterconfirming it again and again, the young girl''s eyes reddenedandshe was at a loss.


    There wasnot asingle cultivator in sight at the family head''s residence, onlysome mortals remained at Feiyue Manor and the surrounding areas.


    Lan Chang''an realized that he might have overlooked someimportantinformation.


    "Could it be that the Mu Family had received news of Liang Shaotian''s impending attack, so the cultivators collectively went intohidding?"


    After all, at this time, the Mu Family did not have a Foundation Establishment cultivator in their midst, and they were powerless to resist the evil cultivator Liang Shaotian.


    After another two hours.Asdawn broke,finallysome cultivators from the Mu Family came to investigate, actingverycautiously."You all... are alright?"


    They were so shocked that their jaws almost dropped.


    Not long after, the patriarch Mu Maode, Mu Xiuyun, and others sessively rushed to the herb garden.


    Everyone found it hard to believe. If a few people had been injured or killed, they could understand. Yet, there were no casualties at all in the entire herb garden.


    "Liang Shaotian didn''t make a move to kill anyone?" Mu Maode suppressed the astonishment in his heart and inquired about the situation.


    "When I was patrolling the herb garden, I suddenly sensed a terrifying demonic aura, knowingthat I was no match foritI had everyone hide themselves..."


    "During the period of unconsciousness, I don''t know what happened. After waking up, I discovered that most of the precious spiritual herbs in the herb garden were gone." Lan Chang''an exined the situation, with Li Ergou and the others added on from the sidelines. The entire process was so simple that it was hard to find a w.


    After listening, Mu Maode praised, "Lan Chang''an, you were indeed very alert andposed in the face of danger."It was he whowent against the majority and appointed Lan Chang''an as the guardian of the herb garden. Based on the current situation, this decision was indeed correct.


    Mu Maode did not know that this decision had allowed the Mu Familyto narrowly avoid a disaster.If it weren''t for Lan Chang''an, with the speed of the evil cultivator Liang Shaotian,after plundering the herb garden,he would most likely have killed his way to the Mu Family''s location.


    Although Mu Xiuyun discovered the traces of the evil cultivator and promptly returned to report it, her return speed could not match that of a Foundation Establishment evil cultivator, and she might have even encountered him.


    "I can''t believe that the infamous deviant cultivator Liang Shaotian couldactuallyshow mercy at times."Mu Xiuyun stood silently for a while before speaking. Her delicate features werehaggard, with a hint of bloodshot eyes, and her brightstarryeyes asionally nced at Lan Chang''an, revealing concern and a lingering sense of fear.


    "ording to the intelligence, Liang Shaotian generally couldn''t be bothered to take action against low-level cultivators who avoided him. Lan Chang''an''s impromptu decision wasabsolutelycorrect!" Mu Maode once again praised Lan Chang''an''s level-headed wit.


    "What exactly did Liang Shaotian do?" Lan Chang''an did not ask directly: Why did all the Mu Family cultivators run away?


    Mu Maode coughed dryly, appearing slightly awkward.


    Mu Xiuyun smiled and began to recount the information about Liang Shaotian''s killings and plunderingatthe Zheng Family.


    After listening, Lan Chang''an understood the truth of the matter.In such a situation, if he was at the helm of the Mu Family, he might have made the same choice.


    Lookingback on this incident. Lan Chang''an,as the person who had frightened Liang Shaotian away, knew that there was still a minor doubt, it being why Liang Shaotian, after "plundering" the herb garden, had not proceeded to the Mu Family''s residence.


    The Mu Family cultivators had all fled at the time, perhaps thinking that Liang Shaotian hadebutfound no here,and dared not linger for long. Orperhaps, for some reason, Liang Shaotian had aborted his n.


    The truth of the matter, only Lan Chang''an and Liang Shaotian truly knew.


    ...


    "This junior''s cultivation and experience arecking. Now that the hostilities at thefront-linemining area have ceased, may I request that ate-stage Qi-Refining cultivator from within the n take over the duty of guarding the herbgarden." Taking advantage of the family head''s presence, Lan Chang''an brought it up himself. He felt that the feng shui of the herb garden was not good, as it had faced two crises in less than a year.


    One was an inside mole, and the other was an evil cultivator.


    "Lan Chang''an, you are a blessing to my Mu Family. Even if you don''t serve as the Garden Master, you can still assist in guarding it." Mu Maode tried to persuade him.


    "Now that the conflict between the two ns has ceased, and the evil cultivator Liang Shaotian is being pursued by the sects, he would not dare linger in the vicinity.You can rest assured..."


    Lan Chang''an understood this reasoning but still excused himself.


    By staying at the herb garden, he would have to exert effort to some extent. Although it was close to the family''s location, the safety was slightly lower.


    At the family''spound, he only needed to refine some talismans annually, which was safer and more leisurely.


    "Alright, someone wille to take over from you in a couple of days." Mu Maode knew he could not force him.


    Now that half of the cultivators from thefrontlinemining area had withdrawn, there were a lot of wounded to take care of. The Mu Family head left ahead of time.


    LeavingMu Xiuyun to oversee the ounting of the losses in the herb garden and some other follow-up matters.


    ...


    "Lan Chang''an, there are some details that require your verification." Mu Xiuyun''s eyes flickered, and she smiled subtly.


    Lan Chang''an hadoriginally nnedto ck off, but due to the request of the youngdy of the Mu Family, he had no choice but to apany her.


    As they walked through the herb garden, Lan Chang''an caught a whiff of a lingering, delicate, and refreshing fragrance, unsure if it came from the gentle and serene youngdy or the nearby spiritual flowers and herbs.


    "Lan Chang''an, are youreallynot interested in marrying any of the women from the Mu Family?" Mu Xiuyun moved with graceful steps, her starry eyes slightlylowered,as if she wanted to continue the matchmaking attempt from before.


    "Not interested." This time, Lan Chang''an answered with peace of mind.Previously, when hehadeto the Mu Family to leech off their cultivation grounds, heckeda bit ofconfidence.Now, as a first-rank senior talisman master, hehad a cooperative rtionshipwith the Mu Family.


    "Why?" Mu Xiuyun unconsciously clutched the folds of her dress, looking at him in bewilderment.


    "The cultivation world is ever-changing, and thoseatthe Qi-Refining realm are like cannon fodder. At least reaching the Foundation Establishment Realm provides a basic foundation; otherwise, with an uncertain future, how could one dare to take a wife and have children."Lan Chang''an reiterated the exnation he had given to Li Ergouin the past.Didn''t the recent conflict between the two ns prove this very point?


    Mu Xiuyun lightly bit her ruby lips, hesitating to speak further. Given Lan Chang''an''s age, spiritual roots, and current cultivation level, the hope of reaching the Foundation Establishment Realm was practically non-existent.


    Even for Mu Xiuyun, who was around the same age as Lan Chang''an and had recently advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, reaching the Foundation Establishment realm in the future was still a concern.


    Compared tomajorsects and great families, it was simply toodifficultfor a small cultivation family to obtain Foundation Establishment Pills!


    "By the way, Young Lady, you said earlier that Liang Shaotian was infamous.Do you know why he was being pursued by the sects?"Lan Chang''an changed the subject, breaking the atmosphere between the single man and woman.


    "It is said that Liang Shaotian defiled and killed a female disciple of the Xuanyin Pavilion..." Mu Xiuyun''s eyes revealeddisgust,as she spoke with difficulty.


    Lan Chang''an was astonished. He only had a brief encounter with Liang Shaotian, yet he couldn''t see this person being capable ofmitting such a beastly act.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    The Mu Family broughtina cultivator at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining to take over Lan Chang''an''s duties. It was someone he was acquainted with.


    "Brother Yunfei, congrattions on advancing to thete stage of Qi-Refining." Lan Chang''an looked at the young man with a missing arm before him, whose once handsome face now bore a dark purple burn scar.


    Thisreminded him of Zheng Wugongwhohad tried to assassinate the immortal seedlingsback then. That person also had a centipede-like scar on his face. Was he also as handsome as Mu Yunfei in his youth?


    "Brother Chang''an, I''ve heard about your meritorious deeds in the herb garden. Recruiting you into the family was the Mu Family''s most correct decision." Mu Yunfei''s mouth cracked into a smile, the scar on his face slightly distorting, adding a hint of fierceness to his expressionpared to before.


    Through their conversation, Lan Chang''an learned that after the life-and-death battles on the front lines, Mu Yunfei had awakened his hidden potential and advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    There were twomon ways to break through a bottleneck. One was through gradual tempering over a long period; the second was to consume breakthrough pills to increase the chances of sess.


    Mu Yunfei''s situation belonged to the lessmon third kind: awakening his potential in the extremes of life and death, breaking through his shackles. This method of breaking through bottlenecks had harsh conditions and the highest risk. Unexpectedly, the one-armed Mu Yunfei was able tobreakthroughusing the mostdifficultmethod.


    Although Lan Chang''an admired him, hestillkept a respectful distance from such a breakthrough method. In his view, only the legendary sons and daughters of destiny could repeatedlybreak throughat the brink of life and death, turning cmities into blessings.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an aimed to steadily reach the Nascent Soul Realm, living a long life and progressingat a steady pace. He did not wish to attempt such a low-tolerance approach.


    ...


    Bidding farewell to Mu Yunfei, Li Ergou, and the others, Lan Chang''an returned to Feiyue Manor, back to his familiar detached courtyard.


    On the third day after Lan Chang''an''s return to the family. A sect disciple came to the Mu Family to investigate leads on the evil cultivator Liang Shaotian.


    They only went to the herb garden to inquire about the situation. Lan Chang''an, as one of the parties involved, was not summoned. After a simple inquiry, the sect disciple quickly left.


    The fewer matters Lan Chang''an was involved in, the better, so he naturally would not step forward.


    He secluded himself in cultivation, studying the ''Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual'' that he had obtained from Liang Shaotian.


    Body refinement methods were rtively obscure. In his previous life, he had to cultivate, research talismans, and work for the family, so hesimplydid not have the energy to delve into this field and collect such manuals.


    Two monthster.


    During his secluded cultivation, Lan Chang''an suddenly sensed something and looked toward the direction of Feiyue Lake.


    "The Mu Family Ancestor has returned?"


    "No! There areactuallytwo Foundation Establishment auras!" Lan Chang''an''s heart skipped a beat.


    One of the decaying Foundation Establishment auras was indeed the Mu Family Patriarchbutthe other Foundation Establishment aura wasratherunstable, making it easy to sense.


    "A newly formed Foundation Establishment cultivator!" Lan Chang''an immediately made this judgment.


    As expected, that afternoon, Mu Renlong appeared at Feiyue Manor with the status of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The second Foundation Establishment cultivator! The entire Mu Family was in an uproar, celebrating fervently.


    Amidst the heated atmosphere, only Lan Chang''an''s brow was slightly furrowed, his expression not looking too good.


    "Two Foundation Establishment cultivators? It seems the conflict between the families has not yet ended."Because the equilibrium between the two families hadbeen broken!


    The very next day.


    The Mu Family at Feiyue Lake convened a full n mobilization meeting, preparing to counterattack the Zheng Family and avenge their previous shame!

 Chapter 28: The Hidden Sparrow

    Chapter 28: The Hidden Sparrow


    The cultivation world is ever-changing, with constant shifts and turns. Not long ago, the Mu Family''s situation was dire, and it seemed the Zheng Family would gradually devour them. Yetinjust a few months, the Zheng Family was now facing the cmity ofannihtion.


    At the central gathering area of Feiyue Manor.


    The Mu Family assembled nearly all of its cultivators. On the stage, the family headMuMaodedeliveredan impassioned rallying speech for theing campaign. The young cultivators within the family weregreatlyinspired, their hearts surging with excitement, and they eagerly rubbed their palms, itching for action.


    Of course, the main reason for their high morale was the emergence of a new Foundation Establishment cultivator in the Mu Family.


    "Big Brother Lan, this battle is a great opportunity to make merit.If not forthe fact that my injuries haven''thealed, I would have gone over to broaden my horizons."Li Ergou listened with boiling enthusiasm, eager to give it a try.


    Everyone liked to fight a battle with favorable winds. In the eyes of the Mu Family cultivators, this was an assured victory. Even without the family''s conscription, many young members were eager to volunteer, yearning to make contributions and plunder the resources of the Zheng Family.


    "Brother Changan, why don''t you join my assault team?" Mu Yunfei came over and extended an invitation. His lone arm and facial scar added an extratouch offierceness to his appearance.


    "With my shallow cultivation and meager strength, rather than being a burden on the front lines,I''d be better suitedto refining talismans and providing logistical support from the rear." Lan Chang''an politely declined.


    He had no interest in joining abattleeven if it had favorable winds. He didn''tck spirit stones now, so why bother going to the front lines and joining themotion?In Lan Chang''an''s previous life, he had reached the pinnacle of the Core Formation Realm. In his eyes, the battles of these Foundation Establishment cultivation families were no different from skirmishes between neighboring viges.


    Mu Yunfei did not insist, though he felt a tinge of disappointment. He inwardly sighed, "Lan Chang''an has quite the talent forbat, but he''s too cautious and overly concerned about preserving his life."


    Half a dayter.


    The members of the Mu Family who would be participating in the campaign had gathered at Feiyue Manor.


    Their cultivation bases were generally at the thirdyer of Qi-Refining or above, with many new faces from the younger generation, the youngestbeingonly sixteen years old.


    The Mu Family''s high-endbat strength also was not to be underestimated. Apart from the two Foundation Establishment cultivators,there were threeat the ninthyer ofQi-Refining. The family headMuMaodehadreached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining many years ago.


    As for the otherte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators, including Mu Yunfei and Mu Xiuyun, there were five or six of them. There weren''t many middle-stage Qi-Refining robust cultivators, only around a dozen or so.


    However, the number of new generation cultivators at the early stage of Qi-Refining in the Mu Familywas gradually increasing. The future of the family looked promising.


    "In this battle, if it''s just against the Zheng Family, it should be quite stable." Lan Chang''an pondered.


    On the Zheng Family''s side, their Foundation Establishment ancestorwas injured. There were only two left at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining. One was the family headZhengYuanqing, and his younger brotherZhengYuanhuahadmysteriously died after attacking the Mu Family''s herb garden. The other was Zheng Wugong, who had previously led the attempt to assassinate the Mu Family''s immortal seedlings.


    As for the other seventh and eighthyers ofQi-Refining, there were only three or four of them.


    "March!"


    With amand from the family headMuMaode, several dozen cultivators departed from Feiyue Manor.


    Headingtowards Bamboo Leaf Mountain, the dwelling of the Zheng Family.


    Among the clouds above, the two Foundation Establishment figures provided cover.


    Lan Chang''an looked up and vaguely captured the sight of an elderly man with a decaying aura and white hair; beside him was a burly figure with falcon-like eyes, exuding a murderous aura - it was Mu Renlong.


    "Where did Mu Renlong form his Foundation?" Lan Chang''an felt curious.


    For a small cultivation family like the Mu Family, thegreatestdifficulty in forming a Foundation was obtaining Foundation Establishment Pills. Secondly, how to preserve the Foundation Establishment Pill and sessfully break through. If word leaked out, opposing forces woulddefinitelyintervene.


    "It should have been that day." Lan Chang''an recalledthe timewhen the Mu Family Ancestor had returned to the family for a short while before mysteriously leaving again. Perhaps during that period, the Mu Family Ancestor had secretly helped Mu Renlong form his Foundation elsewhere.


    ...


    After the main force of the Mu Family departed.


    Only a group of elderly, the infirm, and thecrippledremained within the family, or those like Lan Chang''an who dared not go to the front lines, the so-called "cowards."


    At this time, Lan Chang''an remained vignt because of the Mu Family''s empty defenses.


    However, the Mu Family hadmade preparations, with the remaining cultivators on full alert, activating a first-rank protection formation. Relying on the formation for defense, as long as there were no Foundation Establishment Realm cultivators, it would be difficult to break throughin a short period.


    Based on Lan Chang''an''s experience, the likelihood of the Mu Family''s stationed locationbeing attackedwas extremely low. Because the Mu Family had practically emptied their nest, taking all their precious resources with them. Even if the enemy aimed to rob them, there was little strategic significance, and without dispatching their main forces, it would be difficult to break through the formation. For the sake of some old and weak people, it would not be worth the effort.


    The mostimportantresource for a cultivation family was the spiritual veinbutthe spiritual veinwas deeply buried underground and practically unmovable.


    As for some fixed assets, such as mineral resources or spiritual fields, they could at most be looted and damaged, but it wouldn''t deal acripplingblow.


    As time passedlikethe flowing years.


    For several days in a row, Feiyue Manor remained calm, but the atmosphere within the family was oppressive.


    The stationed family members were concerned about the battles on the front lines.


    ...


    Another two dayspassed.


    Ominous news arrived from the front lines - the Mu Family Ancestor had perished!


    ording to reports, at the Zheng Family''s residenceBambooLeaf Mountain, the Foundation Establishment ancestors of the two families had both met their demise.


    That day, some injured members returned. Each one had a gloomy expression, suppressing their fury.


    After inquiring, Lan Chang''an learned about the situation on the front lines.


    The Mu Family Ancestor hadindeedperished, meeting the same fate as the Zheng Family Ancestor, which could not be considered a loss. After all, the Mu Family Ancestor''s lifespan was nearing its end. As long as they could eliminate the Zheng Family and absorb the cultivation resources of a Foundation Establishment family, it woulddefinitelybe a gain.


    However.


    Just as the two ancestors had fallen, and Mu Renlong was leading the family in a desperate battle to upy the Zheng Family''s residence, the Bamboo Leaf Mountain, The Maple Leaf Huang Family intervened!


    Thiswas the same Huang Family that had previously intended to form a marriage alliance with the Mu Family, boasting three Foundation Establishment cultivators in their family.


    The Huang Family only sent two Foundation Establishment cultivators. One was at the early stage, and the other was at the middle stage.


    The sole remaining ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator of the Zheng Family, Zheng Wugong, agreed to submit to the Maple Leaf Huang Family under the persuasion of the Huang Family''s Foundation Establishment ancestor.


    He wouldratherbe a vassal of the Huang Family than let the Mu Family benefit.


    This oue enraged the Mu Family cultivatorswhohad fought bloody battles, almost causing them to sh with the Huang Family.


    The Mu Family had paid a horrific price, with their Foundation Establishment Ancestor perishing. Yetinthe end, theyhadbenefited the HuangFamily?


    However, the Mu Family was powerless and could only ept reality.


    Mu Renlongwhohad newly entered the Foundation EstablishmentRealmdid not have the strength to fight when faced against the two veteran Foundation Establishment cultivators, especially the one at the middle stage.


    ...


    "The hidden sparrow, the Maple Leaf HuangFamilyindeed had ulterior motives." Lan Chang''an was not at all surprised by thefinaloue.


    As early aswhenhewas stationedat the herb garden and heard that the marriage talks between the two families had broken down, Lan Chang''an knew the Huang Family had ill intentions.


    Even if the marriage alliance between the Mu and Huang families had seeded. Aftereliminating the Zheng Family, the Huang Family would havedefinitelyfound a way to absorb the Mu Family, reducing them to a vassal.


    "However, the Huang Family''s actions wille at a cost and will inevitably draw the displeasure of the Beast Taming Zhou Family." Lan Chang''an considered another aspect.


    The Beast Taming Zhou Family was one of the seven great cultivation families of the Liang Kingdom. It was the true overlord of the surrounding region!


    Previously, the Zheng Family had pulled in a branch of the Zhou Family. Without the Zhou Family''s intervention, the Zheng Family had nnedto gradually devour the Feiyue Lake''s Mu Family.


    In other words.


    The conflict between the two families was tacitly permitted by the Beast Taming Zhou Family.However, they did not anticipate the variable of the evil cultivator Liang Shaotian, which severely crippled the Zheng Family''s strength.


    Meanwhile, the Mu Family had unleashed their trump card, producing a new Foundation Establishment cultivator. Unexpectedly, the Mu Family was now poised to devour the Zheng Family.


    In the end, the Huang Family, which had been watching for a long time, became that hidden sparrow.


    With three Foundation Establishment cultivators, it allowed the Huang Family to be a formidable force, an oue the Zhou Family did not wish to see.


    However, the Huang Family did not directly participate in the battle, and the remnants of the Zheng Family willingly submitted. Therefore, the Beast Taming Zhou Family had no grounds to use them.


    ...


    Some timepassed.


    The Foundation EstablishmentAncestorMuRenlongled the returning cultivators from the campaign back to the family. The conflict between the two families had finally drawn to a close.


    This attempt to eliminate the Zheng Family fell far short of the Mu Family''s expected benefits. The only gain was the first-grade purple copper mine that had previously been a point of contention between the two families, now divided in favor of the Feiyue Lake Mu Family.


    Later, Lan Chang''an learned some insider information.


    After the battle, the Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Zhou Family, Huang Family, and Mu Familyhadheld a private meeting. The Huang Family voluntarily gave up some benefits to the Zhou Family to alleviate thetter''s dissatisfaction.


    The Mu Family, which had made thegreatesteffort,ended up beingtheleastbeneficiary. They regained that first-grade purple copper mine. Additionally, they obtained some spoils of war from attacking the Zheng Family''s Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    Whether the Mu Family had gained or lost in this campaign, Lan Chang''an could not judge. But they certainly did not profit.


    Additionally, after eliminating the Zheng Family, the Mu Family would now face an even more formidable potential adversary:


    The Maple Leaf Huang Family!


    ...


    The years were long, three yearster.


    Within a secluded courtyard enveloped by a formation at Feiyue Manor.


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, cultivating, exhaling a long breath of clear air. By now, he had been with the Mu Family for twelve years. Two months ago, he had just turned thirty years old.


    "It will still take a year or two to reach the fifthyer ofQi-Refining." Lan Chang''an was in no hurry, concluding his daily routine cultivation.


    For him, there wasnot muchdifference between the fourth and fifthyers ofQi-Refining. Only by advancing to the seventhyer, crossing into thete stage of Qi-Refining, would his strengthsee a significantincrease.


    Walkinginto the courtyard.


    Lan Chang''an received aletter,sent to him by Zhao Siyao. After briefly looking it over, Lan Chang''an''s expression became pensive as he put away the letter and left his courtyard.


    At this time, in the neighboring courtyard of Li Ergou,nternswere lit, and red silk banners hung high.Lan Chang''an hade to attend the wedding celebration. Today was the day Li Ergou took a concubine.


    In recent years, Li Ergou''s original wife, Mu Qing, had grown old and lost her youthful beauty, causing Li Ergou''s disinterest.


    Some days ago, Li Ergou had advanced to the fifthyer of Qi-Refining, causing his status within the family to rise. Thus, with the support of the family''s elders, Li Ergou took two sisters from the Mu Family as concubines.


    The elder sister, Mu Caiwei, was eighteen years old. The younger sister, Mu Cailin, was sixteen. Of them, the elder sisterMuCaiweihadinferior-grade spiritual roots.


    This pair of sisters,theirappearance and temperament were both better than Li Ergou''s original wife. Prettier and younger.


    "Ergou, you''ve changed." Lan Chang''anclearlyremembered that Li Ergou had previously said he liked girls like Cuihua.


    "Talisman Master Lan."


    "Uncle Lan."


    Amidst the respectful addresses, Lan Chang''an entered the lively, celebratory courtyard.

 Chapter 29: Revisiting Jin Yun

    Chapter 29: Revisiting Jin Yun


    Chapter 29 Revisiting Jin Yun


    "Big Brother Lan, you finally made it!" Li Ergou, dressed in a crimson red robe, came out to greet him with open arms, wanting to give him a warm embrace.


    Lan Chang''an was slightly annoyed, patting him on the shoulder instead.


    Compared to years ago, Li Ergou''s face had be more rounded, his belly slightly protruding, and his skin not as dark as before. Obviously under thirty years old, at first nce, he looked like a wealthy gentleman.


    "Long Qing, this is my congrattory gift for you." Lan Chang''an took out two talisman papers, both excellent quality wind speed talismans that Li Ergou had begged for years ago.


    Nowadays, the cultivators of the Mu Family all call Li Ergou "Changqing" or "Li Changqing."


    "Hahaha! Ifbig brothees, just eat and drink as you please, why give gifts?" Li Ergou''s eyes lit up as he deftly took the talismans and led Lan Chang''an to the main table inside.


    There was a distinction between immortals and mortals, so Li Ergou''s rtives did note, but he treated Lan Chang''an like his own brother. Although Li Ergou was the first to reach the fifthyer of Qi-Refining, he still respected Lan Chang''an as much as he did ten years ago, and their rtionship was just as close.


    "You go and take care of your newlywed duties first." Lan Chang''an waved his hand dismissively.Over the past dozen years, Li Ergou had fully integrated into the Mu Family and birthed spirit root descendants for them. He had also gone to battle for the Mu Family and even broke his leg. In the eyes of the Mu Family members, he was a trustworthy good son-inw and was considered one of their own.


    There were many peopleingto congratte him, aside from the bride''s rtives, including some family members Li Ergou was familiar with.


    "Do you know about Mu Yinn? This golden flower of our Mu Family went home to visit rtives a few days ago, and the ceremony wasreallygrand, withte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators personally escorting her."


    "Tsk tsk, Mu Yinn married into the Beast Taming Zhou Family, leaning on a big tree for shade. That wasdefinitelythe right move." The conversation from the neighboring table caught Lan Chang''an''s attention.


    Mu Yinn was the spirit rootdy that the Mu Family had wanted to match with Lan Chang''an back then, but it did not work out and even caused her to harbor resentment.


    Lan Chang''an had heard about Mu Yinn''s marriage.


    Three years ago, after the conflict between the two families, the rtionship between the Feiyue Lake Mu Family and the Beast Taming Zhou Family gradually became closer, recing the position previously held by the Zheng Family.


    Facing the rising Huang Family, the Zhou Family became wary.


    The Maple Leaf Huang Family had three Foundation Establishment cultivators and was united, so if they continued to develop, they might threaten the Zhou Family''s position in the future.


    In contrast, the Mu Family was the weakest force, and their territory now bordered the Huang Family''s. The Beast Taming Zhou Family did not want the Huang Family to swallow up the Mu Family and be even stronger, so they had the idea of supporting the Mu Family. This was the background behind Mu Yinn''s marriage to the Zhou Family.


    Actually,the eldest youngdy Mu Xiuyun would have been the ideal marriage candidate. However, after the herb garden incident and reaching the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, Mu Xiuyun publicly dered that she would not marry.


    Mu Xiuyun''s cultivation was quite remarkable, and she was also a senior first-rank talisman master, so the Mu Family elders did not want to lose such a talented person and supported her decision. By not marrying out, she could still take in a son-inw in the future.


    It was said that Mu Yinn took the initiative to rece Mu Xiuyun and marry the second son of one of the Zhou Family''s branches as the principal wife.


    For Mu Yinn, it was considered marrying up!


    "That girl sure holds a grudge." Lan Chang''an thought of something and couldn''t help but smile.


    A few days ago, when Mu Yinn returned home to visit rtives, she deliberately took a circuitous route past Lan Chang''an''s courtyard.


    She did have the air of a noble matriarch from a great family. Lan Chang''an understood Mu Yinn''s ambition and desire to elevate her status, and he was happy to see her doing well for herself.


    ...


    That evening, Li Ergou took the pair of sisters Mu Caiwei and Mu Cailin as his wives. He was overjoyed, embracing one with each arm.


    This scene made those who had once been immortal seedlings bitter, and even some of the younger members of the Mu Family felt envious.


    Li Ergou was able to reach his current status all thanks to having children. He was the first to take a wife and have a child, receiving generous additional rewards. He was the first to give birth to a spiritual root descendant, obtaining mid-stageQi-Refiningbreakthrough pills.Afterwards, he had several more children.


    His reproductive ability wasclearlystronger than other cultivators of the same realm. He had also risked his life for the Mu Family before. For such a devoted son-inw who had fully integrated into the family and was so prolific, the Mu Family was naturally willing to cultivate him further and give him more "responsibilities."


    If it were an ordinary man, he would have been mired in the pleasures of the flesh long ago. However, Li Ergou was able to oveethis,and never cked off in his cultivation.


    In this regard, Lan Chang''an was quite surprised.


    In fact,the reason Li Ergou was able to do this was because he was influenced by the bitter cultivator Lan Chang''an in the neighboring courtyard. Even his new name was borrowed from Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    Three days after taking his concubines, Li Ergou took the initiative to visit Lan Chang''an and showed him a letter.


    "Zhao Siyao wants us to gather at Jin Yun Valley within six months."


    "Yeah, I received the letter too." Lan Chang''an nodded. Since there was no urgency, he had not mentioned it when Li Ergou took his concubines a few days ago.


    "Big Brother Lan, what do you think? Should we help Zhao Siyao out a bit?" Li Ergou followed his opinion.


    In the past year, Zhao Siyao had subtly expressed to them the difficulties she faced inpeting for the core disciple position. This time she was inviting them to Jin Yun Valley, so the implication was clear.


    Lan Chang''an said, "We can help her out, but only within our means."


    "How much does Big Brother n to contribute?"


    "One hundred spirit stones." Lan Chang''an held up one finger.


    "Aiya, at most I can only afford fifty spirit stones. My second son has just started cultivating and needs spirit stones for expenses..." Li Ergou said with difficulty.


    "That''s not a small amount," Lan Chang''an smiled. Li Ergou did have a family after all, so his expenses were greater.


    "It''s still big brother who is dashing! Talisman masters can make money without so many burdens."


    After discussing, the two made their decision.


    The next day, they rode spiritual steeds and departed from the Mu Family''s base.


    "It''s been twelve years." Lan Chang''an looked back at the resplendent Feiyue Lake, almost feeling a tinge of affection for this ce. Thest time he had gone out was nine years ago.


    Even for a pure-blooded member of the Mu Family, it was extremely rare to not leave Feiyue Lake for nearly a decade.


    After being cooped up in the n for so long, Lan Chang''an had some needs on this outing. First, the spoils of war in his storage pouch were extremely valuable, and he needed to find a ce to sell them off, mainly the gains from killing Master Ge Yi. Just the precious medicinal ingredients sealed in those jade boxes were worth over a thousand spirit stones.


    Second, the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Technique he had been cultivating these past two years required first-grade spiritsand stonesto absorb the essence of the minerals and internally temper the body from the outside in.


    The first-gradesand stonesthat could be purchased within the n were fewin numberand of average quality. While selling off his spoils, Lan Chang''an wanted to purchase arge batch of high-quality spirit sand, enough tost over ten years if possible.


    Body refinement arts were both time-consuming and financially demanding. Most cultivators simply did not have the financial means; or if they did have the money, theycked the patience to practice it concurrently.


    Although body refinement arts could greatly strengthen one''s physical body, most cultivators relied on long-range tactics, magical treasures, and special abilities, which were considered the orthodox path.


    Besides enhancing survival abilities and close-quartersbat prowess, the advantages of body refinement arts were not outstanding. Therefore, few cultivators practiced body refinement arts.


    Yet Lan Chang''an had a very long lifespan, an abundance of free time every day, and currently had ample financial resources, fulfilling the conditions to concurrently cultivate body refinement arts.


    ...


    A monthter, the two arrived at Hengshui Prefecture riding spiritual steeds.


    They first went to the Marquis'' Residence to meet up with Lin Yi. Lin Yi had also received Zhao Siyao''s invitation.


    "Hahaha! I''ve been waiting for you two for a long time! Come, try my Yun Feng tribute tea." Lin Yi greeted them with a bright smile, personally pouring the tea. Dressed in a loose robe with a beard at the corner of his lips, he exuded a steady yet amiable demeanor. Lan Chang''an almost forgot about the arrogant young master from years ago who wore luxurious robes.


    In the past two years, Lan Chang''an had dealings with Lin Yi. After establishing the Hidden Immortal Pavilion, Lin Yihadvisited the Mu Family''s base and purchased a batch of talismans from Lan Chang''an. Now, the Hidden Immortal Pavilion wasbasicallyrunning smoothly. Lin Yi had reached the fourthyer of Qi-Refining and recruited several wandering cultivators as well as a group of secr martial artists.


    The next day, the three of them rode spiritual steeds towards Jin Yun Valley.


    For Qi-Refining cultivators, using these semi-spiritual beast mounts was more convenient and energy-saving for long-distance travelpared to flying artifacts.


    ...


    A monthter, Lan Chang''an and the others arrived at Jin Yun Valley.


    Jin Yun Valleywaslocated in the heart of the majestic mountains. Under the zing sunlight, those mineral-rich mountains reflected a faint golden glow onto the clouds, outlining the solemn and divine scene of a "golden thread between mountain and cloud" ¨C a true immortal''s paradise.


    The three of them arrived at the foot of the mountain gate. Looking up at the lofty immortal sect above, Lin Yi and Li Ergou felt mixed emotions of reverence, aspiration, and discontent. This was the ce where they had previously failed.


    Lan Chang''an was calm as still waters, neither humble nor arrogant, as he approached the mountain gate. He took out the token and asked the gatekeeper disciple to notify Zhao Siyao of their arrival.


    After about half an hour, Zhao Siyao, wearing a flowing white dress, flew over on a cloud of mist and gracefullynded before them. With a phoenix hairpin adorning her head and her ethereal dress fluttering, she exuded an enchanting, cold beauty befitting a celestial fairy.


    Lan Chang''an and the others were stunned for a moment. After nine years apart, Zhao Siyao''s beauty was breathtaking, like a painting of an immortal maiden untouched by mortal dust.


    "Fellow Daoists, I hope you have been well." Zhao Siyao''s pair of spiritual, limpid eyes swept over Lan Chang''an and the others, revealing a hint of surprise.


    Li Ergou and Lin Yi had changed significantly, but Lan Chang''an''s appearance was almost the same as that eighteen-year-old youth - extraordinarily handsome with an aloof, water-like calmness.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, are all the female disciples in your sect as beautiful as you?" Li Ergou snapped out of his daze with a grin. No longer the shy youth who would blush just at a nce from the once little Zhao Siyao.


    "If Fellow Daoist Li is interested, I can introduce you to twodiester on," Zhao Siyaoughed melodiously like a ringing chime.


    The four of them chatted as theywalked,like they had returned to their callow youth, entering Jin Yun Valley to take part in the immortal sect''s examination all those years ago.


    Zhao Siyao led the way into Jin Yun Valley''s Visiting Peak, and they sat down in a pavilion.


    "Please, have a seat, Fellow Daoists." Zhao Siyao sat elegantly at the head seat, gently lifting her flowing sleeves to reveal jade-like tender wrists as she used her spiritual energy to summon a tea set and te of spiritual fruits to each of their small tables.

 Chapter 30: Superior-Grade Magic Weapon

    Chapter 30: Superior-Grade Magic Weapon


    At the Visiting Peak pavilion.


    There was no Xia Felen at this gathering, and the atmosphere was very harmonious.


    Zhao Siyao had already reached the eighthyer of Qi-Refining. The vast gap made Lin Yi and Li Ergou sigh wistfully, having no hope of catching up in this life.


    As the initiator of the gathering, and the only female cultivator present, the conversation naturally centered around Zhao Siyao.


    Through casual conversation, Lan Chang''an and the others learned many secrets of the cultivation world in the Kingdom of Liang that lower-level cultivators would find hard to ess. Zhao Siyao even had some understanding of the cultivation situation in the neighboring kingdoms.


    Elegant and gracious, Zhao Siyao did not neglect anyone, inquiring about each of the three''s recent circumstances and offering advice. When the discussion turned to Lin Yi, it inevitably involved the Hidden Immortal Pavilion he had painstakingly established.


    "Fellow Daoist Lin, your ''Hidden Immortal Pavilion'' starts from the secr world, doing business for lower-level cultivators. The concept is not bad. But you must be careful not to interfere with the secr dynasties and avoid encroaching on the interests of major sects and ns..." Zhao Siyao''s assessment was quite positive.


    "This is not solely my achievement," Lin Yi replied humbly, feeling gratified inwardly.


    Zhao Siyao then asked, "Fellow Daoist Lin, are you acquainted with Senior Brother Zhang Tieshan?""We''ve had some interactions," Lin Yi answered cautiously, unsure of Zhao Siyao''s attitude.


    Zhang Tieshan was the one who ranked first in the third trial Illusion Heart tform of Jin Yun Valley''s entrance examination all those years ago. Lan Chang''an had met him once at the Marquis'' Residence, rejecting Zhang''s invitation to exterminate an evil spirit from a haunted mansion at the time. It was on that asion that Lin Yi apanied Zhang in exorcising evil spirits, forging a connection with him.


    "Although Zhang Tieshan''s aptitude is average, his determination is firm, and he has gained the appreciation of an elder from an outer peak. You being able to associate with him is truly rare!" Zhao Siyao praised him unexpectedly.


    This almost made the now mature and steady Lin Yi feel somewhat ted, harboring the illusion that the Celestial Maiden Zhao mightactuallyfavor him. Fortunately, he was calm enough to understand the gap between them. No matter how long he had admired her, he dared not show the slightest impropriety before the current Zhao Siyao who was akin to a fairy.


    Next, the conversation turned to Li Ergou.


    Zhao Siyao couldn''t help but smile, finding it hard to connect the well-off gentleman named "Li Changqing" before her with the timid, dark-skinned young farmer from years ago.


    "Hahaha! Fellow Daoist Changqing is surrounded by beauties in the cultivation n, and his cultivation is steadily progressing. If he had joined the sect back then, how could he enjoy the good life he has now?" Lin Yi joked, inevitably feeling envious in his heart.


    That farmer boy he had once looked down upon now surpassed him in both status and cultivation in the immortal world.


    Lan Chang''an also smiled. If Li Ergou had truly joined the sect, he might not have had such a prosperous life.


    "Fellow Daoist Li must be mindful that the mundane desires of the secr world can affect the purity of the six roots. But if those desires can be cleansed, it will aid in cultivating a focused mind." Zhao Siyao offered him advice as well.


    Finally, they discussed Lan Chang''an. Zhao Siyao''s brilliant, beautiful eyes lingered slightly on Lan Chang''an''s face.


    When they had first met, she was still a young girl, attracted by the tales of thejianghuand romantic stories Lan Chang''an had told back then.


    The closeness from years ago, that indescribable flutter of the heart, had almost been worn away by the passage of over a decade and the vastness of the immortal world.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, although the wood-based cultivation method you practice has a rejuvenating effect, its progress is slow. If you have the opportunity, you may want to consider switching to a fire-based method more suited to you." Zhao Siyao smiled, feeling regretful in her heart.


    Originally, Lan Chang''an''s aptitude was not bad. But failing to join the sect, that one misstep, led to further mistakes. Now, his cultivation evengged behind Li Ergou''s.


    "The path of talismans is a decent skill, but do not be too immersed in it. For us cultivators, the Dao is the root."


    "Many thanks to Fellow Daoist Zhao, for your kind guidance." Lan Chang''an could see that Zhao Siyao meant well, and her advice to the three of them was quite reasonable. For ordinary wandering cultivators to receive pointers from a sect cultivator was an extremely rare opportunity.


    Next, Lin Yi and Li Ergou consulted Zhao Siyao about various cultivation issues.


    "There''s no need to be so formal. Let''s discuss amongst ourselves."


    Without arrogance from her status, Zhao Siyao would asionally smile, listening attentively, dispelling the initial aloof celestial air that made one not dare to offend her.


    The atmosphere became increasingly harmonious.


    With a sect fairy-like Zhao Siyao around, the few of them could engage in rxed and enjoyable exchanges and discussions about cultivation.


    Sipping tea and discoursing on the Dao, was a delight to the heart.


    Everyone present had gained something.


    In the process of exining, Zhao Siyao would asionally have shes of enlightenment and realizations.


    Even Lan Chang''an, who was re-cultivating, felt a sense of renewed understanding when discussing these lower-level cultivation contents.


    This was the panionship" aspect of the Immortal Cultivation Path. Tomunicate with one''s fellow practitioners and to be taught by one''s master.


    Individual wisdom is limited. If one were to constantly seclude themselves, without interacting and exchanging pointers with others, no matter how long the lifespan, they would inevitably face all sorts of obstacles and fetters.


    The current harmonious and pleasant atmosphere made Lan Chang''an feel gratified. In his previous two lives, he had encountered too much scheming and the darkness of the world. In his early years of cultivation this life, the few friends he had made were all good-natured. Despite being at different levels of the cultivation world, the four of them had maintained contact for over a decade afterfirstmeeting, which was trulymendable.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an deeply understood that the human heart was fickle, and with his lifespan remaining long, the future was still unknown.


    ...


    As the sun set, Zhao Siyao finally brought up the main purpose of this gathering.


    "Fellow Daoists, Siyao has called you here to request something." Zhao Siyao spoke earnestly.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, webasicallyunderstand your circumstances. Feel free to state your needs." Lin Yi readily replied.


    Zhao Siyao nodded with a smile and took out an iron umbre with some rust. This was a magical weapon, with two sections of the umbre''s frame broken and several obvious cracks on the canopy.


    "This is a superior-grade magical weapon passed down in my family, but unfortunately the materials have been damaged, leaving only thirty to forty percent of its power..." Zhao Siyao exined.


    She wanted topete for the core disciple position, but the magical weapon in her possession was not powerful enough. Normally, a superior-grade magical weapon corresponds to the early Foundation Establishment Realm.


    But in the sect, disciples'' cultivation methods were extraordinary, and their spiritual powerprofound. Even with just ate Qi-Refining stage cultivation, they could control a superior-grade magical weapon and unleash tremendous power.


    To repair this superior-grade magical weapon, Zhao Siyao faced two major difficulties.


    First, shecked spirit stones. Her spirit stones were mainly used for cultivation needs, with no surplus to repair the magical weapon. The deficit was at least two hundred spirit stones.


    Second, she could not ask an artifact refiner within the sect to repair this magical weapon, or else its abilities and characteristics might be revealed, unfavorable for her inpeting for the core disciple position.


    Zhao Siyao did not have any artifact refiners she trusted within the sect. She wanted tomission someone she trusted to get it repaired outside in the market towns, without letting herpetitors within the sect know.


    The first issue was easily solved.


    Lan Chang''an took out one hundred spirit stones.


    Lin Yi grudgingly contributed sixty spirit stones.


    Li Ergou only offered fifty spirit stones.


    A total of two hundred and ten spirit stones. That was enough spirit stones, now the question was who would take on this task.


    Lin Yi was vaguely looking forward to it in his heart, after all, the Hidden Immortal Pavilion that he had created was considered a power at the lower cultivation levels.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, do you have time to make a trip to the Five Peaks Market Town and have the artifact refiner Gu Lai repair this magical weapon?" Zhao Siyao''s beautiful eyes swept across the three of them before settling on Lan Chang''an.


    Aside from maintaining secrecy, repairing the magical weapon would take time, and she currently did not have much free time to go out during this crucial stage of her cultivation.


    "I can do it. I was nning to go to the market towns to purchase some materials anyway." Lan Chang''an agreed without a second thought. Even if he didn''t help with this favor, he still needed to go to the market to buy first-grade spirit sand and sell off his spoils of war.


    On the side, Lin Yi felt envious. For the important task of repairing a superior-grade magical weapon to be entrusted to Lan Chang''an showed Zhao Siyao''s trust in his character and abilities.


    "There are also two sect missions that I hope Fellow Daoists Lin and Li can assist with." Zhao Siyao''s ruby lips curved into a smile as she spoke.


    Soon, Lin Yi and Li Ergou each received a mission.


    Li Ergou''s mission was to go to the capital of the Kingdom of Liang and secretly protect thedescendantof a certain Foundation Establishment Realm deacon from Jin Yun Valley for half a year.


    The reason was that the political situation in the capital was unstable, and that deacon member held a key official position.


    Lin Yi''s mission was to collect a rare Moonlight Grass that only grew in specific locations during a full moon night. It was not very valuable, but rather troublesome to obtain.


    He was tasked with gathering twenty nts, which would require much effort and possibly take a year.


    Zhao Siyao did not have the time for these sect missions, but the sect had an annual requirement, andpleting them would earn contributions.


    "Zhao Siyao hasreallythought this through, assigning each of us suitable tasks." Lan Chang''an mused silently.


    For example, Li Ergou with the highest cultivation was given the simplest bodyguard mission.


    Lin Yi''s task was more tedious but not difficult with the Hidden Immortal Pavilion''s assistance.


    Lan Chang''an''s task was the most important, requiring someone steady and trustworthy.


    "Fellow Daoists, Siyao will keep today''s events in mind."


    Before parting, Zhao Siyao stood upright with a curtsy full of grace.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, there''s no need for such courtesy." Lin Yi and Li Ergou were ttered.


    ...


    After bidding farewell to Zhao Siyao, Lan Chang''an and the others headed down the mountain together.


    "Brother Lan, do you know why Xia Felen did note this time?" Lin Yi asked with an air of mystery.


    Xia Felen?


    Lan Chang''an recalled that alchemy apprentice student from the three-year appointment at the Immortal Gathering Building years ago, who had subtly mocked him and looked down on the three of them during the banquet. This time, Zhao Siyao did not even mention this person.


    "Heheh! Let me tell you."


    Lin Yiughed gleefully at the misfortune. "Over the years, Xia Felen has been selling inferior spirit pills and even poisonous pills, harming many wandering cultivators and even descendants of sect cultivators. This matter was reported to the Law Enforcement Hall by Zhang Tieshan, and Xia Felen has recently been detained, soon to face heavy punishment from the sect!" <ul> <li>Your feedback and ratings are greatly appreciated. If you have a moment, please consider rating this novel on Novelupdates.</li> <li>Should you notice any errors in this chapter, kindly mention them in thements below so I can correct them. Thank you!</li> </ul>

 Chapter 31: Selling Spoils in the Market Town

    Chapter 31: Selling Spoils in the Market Town


    Chapter 31 Selling Spoils in the Market Town


    Upon learning of Xia Felen''s tragic downfall, Lan Chang''an looked deeply at Lin Yi.


    Lin Yi had a connection with Zhang Tieshan.It was Zhang Tieshan whomade trouble in the sect, pushing Xia Felen into the abyss.


    Years agoatthe Three Year Appointment, Xia Felen had made Lin Yi lose face. It was hard to say whether Lin Yi harbored a grudge. If Lin Yi yed akeyrole in instigating this matter, Lan Chang''an had to admit he had underestimated this former young marquis.


    Lin Yi''s revtion now might be an intentional disy of his capabilities, aiming to win over Lan Chang''an, a talisman master, into joining his Hidden Immortal Pavilion.


    "Zhang Tieshan is also a remarkable figure." Lan Chang''an recalled Zhao Siyao''s appraisal of this person ¨C firm in will and having gained the appreciation of an outer peak elder.


    An outer peak elder of Jin Yun Valley was at least a Fake-Dan immortal.


    AFake-Danwas formedof a lesser quality dan, also known asInferiorDan or Gray Dan. Although not as powerful as true Core Formation Realm or Golden-DanImmortalsas some might call them, Fake-Dan Immortals lived a hundred years longer than the Foundation Establishment Realm cultivatorsandtheirstrengtheasilycrushed thete Foundation Establishment Stage.


    In his previous life, even though Lan Chang''an had formed a True Dan of decent quality, he could not ignore the existence ofFake-Dancultivators."It seems I did miss out on a decent connection by not participating in the evil spirit exorcism at Hengshui Prefecture back then." Looking back now, Lan Chang''an did not deny this, but healsodid not regret it.


    Without foresight, if one wanted to conduct themselves with minimal risk and steadiness,it was inevitable to missout oncertainopportunities.


    ...


    At the foot of Jin Yun Valley''s mountain.


    Lan Chang''an and the others parted ways, heading in different directions.


    Lan Chang''an took out a jade slip given by ZhaoSiyao,containing map information of the cultivation world in the Kingdom of Liang. The map markedrge and small cultivation forces, including market towns and some dangerous locations. Even Feiyue Lakewasbeledon it.


    Based on the map, thestrongestforcetheme Departing Pce in Liang Kingdom''s cultivationworldwas locatednear the center. The four other major cultivation sects, including Jin Yun Valley, were scattered across the four corners of Liang. Jin Yun Valley''s position was towards the western side of Liang.


    The "Five Peaks Market Town" that Lan Chang''an aimed to visit waslocatedsouth of Jin Yun Valley, about half a month''s journey away. Lan Chang''an had a flying boat in his storagepouch,but could not easily use it. Mostte Qi-Refining cultivators did not have flying boats, and using one at themid Qi-Refiningstage would be rather ostentatious.


    On this day, Lan Chang''an arrived at Five Peaks Market Town riding a spiritual steed.


    Five Peaks Market Town was situated in the middle of several towering mountains, resembling a basin. The surrounding peaks were treacherous with swirling mistspletelyinessible to ordinary mortals.


    After settling his spiritual steed, Lan Chang''an used a body-shrinking technique to transform into a sturdy, muscr man.


    Wielding a low-grade magic treasureDarkGold de, he passed through a veil of misty peaks.


    Suddenly, his vision brightened. A market town spanning ten li and enveloped by a second-grade spirit formation came into view. The outskirts of the market town consisted of terraced spiritual fields extending upwards in tiers.Large swaths of these fields were ntedwith golden-orange spiritual grains, a dazzling golden sight from afar that wasquitemagnificent.


    Inside the market town were well-arranged streets and alleys with elegant architecture showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    Streaks of light crisscrossed as cultivators asionallynded and took off within the market town, apanied by constant sounds of air-breaking.


    ...


    At the entrance of Five Peaks Market Town.


    The muscr man Lan Chang''an was disguised assimplyregisteredhis information, paid a deposit of two spirit stones, and received an identity token. Without an identity token, entrants would immediatelybe sensedby the spirit formation.


    "Those entering the market town cannot stay overnight or sit inmeditation,unless staying at an inn or renting a residence." The guard cultivator reminded him.


    "Understood." Lan Chang''an smiled and entered the market town, ustomed to such rules.The purpose of these regtions wasto prevent freeloaders from siphoning the spiritual energy here.


    Each spiritual vein,depending on its grade and scale, had a limit on how many cultivators it could sustain.


    "Senior, is this your first time visiting Five Peaks Market Town? Junior Hou would like to be your guide, Ican introduce the various shops and areas of the market town for just half a spirit stone." A squinty-eyed youth enthusiastically approached him.


    "Sure, lead the way first." Lan Chang''an did not pretend to be a wealthy customer, handing the youth thirty spirit sands instead.


    "Thank you, Senior." The youth happily bowed.


    "Five Peaks Market Town is under the jurisdiction of the Wanjian Zhuo Family.Underground lies a second-grade mid-rate spiritual vein, andthere are some superior-grade cavesin the core area.The outer spiritual qi environment is equivalent to a first-grade spiritual vein.The EastStreetis concentratedwith major shops of excellent quality but also higher prices. On West Street, people can freely set up stalls for trading..."


    "What is that building for?"Lan Chang''an pointed to a six-story pavilion with an antique style and hangingnterns that stood out among the other shops.


    "That is the Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion. The immortal maidens inside are skilled in music and rhythm that can cultivate one''s temperament, cleanse the mind, andaid in breakingthrough mental obstacles."


    "Just musical arts?"


    "The Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion is not a brothel. The fairies inside are cultivators who practice the art of music and rhythm. Each one is outstandingly beautiful with a graceful bearing. Of course, if you have enough ''charm'',some of the immortal maidens inside could open their hearts to you." The youthughed mischievously, revealing an expression that men would understand.


    "However, the entrance fee here is quite high, at least five spirit stones.For thetop immortal maidens, their performancefee is equivalent to a magical weapon."


    Lan Chang''an chuckled lightly, notmenting on it.


    After making a round through the market town, Lan Chang''anhadinquired about many things, opening his eyes and ears to gather the intelligence he needed.


    "The Hundred Refinement Workshop can forge up to superior-grade magical weapons. Their head artifact refinerGuLaiisthe one specified by Zhao Siyao."


    "Artifact Refiner Gu Lai has a good reputation and a good word of mouth from the people, butthere are many whoseek his services, so there is often a waiting queue."


    Besides Zhao Siyao''smission, Lan Chang''an also founded two reputable shops that purchased spiritual herbs.


    The first-grade spiritsand stoneshe needed for the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Techniquewere soldat one materials shop and one mineral shop.


    ...


    After gathering intelligence, Lan Chang''an did not take immediate action.


    He first stayed at an inn in the market town for two nights, casually purchasing somemon resources to avoid drawing unwanted attention as a new face.


    It was not until the third day that hewent to inquireat the Hundred Refinement Workshop.


    "My master has many magic treasures to forge shortly, so you may have to queue up for half a year. If you''re in a hurry,you canconsider some other first-grade artifact refiners in the market town instead."


    The short-haired youth who received Lan Chang''an was adisciple ofArtifact Refiner Gu Lai.


    "I don''t need to forge a magic treasure, justrepair an exquisite one. Can an exception be made?" Lan Chang''an calmly passed over a small cloth bag.


    The short-haired youthtook the bag and weighed it, feeling at least ten spirit stones inside.His expression softened as he revealed a slight smile:


    "If it''s just repairing a magic treasure, I can arrangeforit within a month. By the way, what grade of magic treasure do you needrepaired?"


    "The specific repair n, I will discuss with Master Guteron." Lan Chang''an did not reveal it was a superior-grade magic treasure.


    An intact top-grade magic treasure was worth at least five to six hundred spirit stones, an immense sum for an ordinary Qi-Refining cultivator. While Artifact Refiner Gu Lai hada goodreputation and broad experience, preventing him from harboring ill intentions, the same could notbe saidfor his disciples.


    "Alright, I''ll take you to see my masterter." The short-haired youth kept the bag with a smile. Many clients had such confidentiality requirements.


    The short-haired youth went to report first.After alength of time,hecame backand led Lan Chang''an to the rear courtyard.


    Inside a refinement chamber, Lan Chang''an met a bare-chestedburlyman with a long beard - the second-rank Artifact Refiner Gu Lai at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Only after the short-haired youth left did Lan Chang''antake outthe damaged iron umbre magic weapon.


    "The Iron Trellis Umbre." Gu Lai caressed the iron umbre, pondering for a moment. It seemed he had seen this magical weapon before, possibly even worked on it in the past.


    "Are you surnamed Zhao?"


    "I was entrusted by a friend surnamed Zhao."


    "Then you''ve found the right person. This Iron Trellis Umbre was one I assisted my master in forging back then. The repair fee will be two hundred spirit stones." Gu Lai stated matter-of-factly.


    Lan Chang''an did not bargain, instead requesting a spirit contract where Gu Lai would imprint a trace of his mana as a record.


    They agreed for the magic treasure tobe repairedwithin a month. Such a spirit contract had no absolute binding force, only serving as proof.


    The imprinted mana mark was akin to a signature and seal in the mortal world, as each cultivator''s spiritual aura was unique.


    Lan Chang''an was cautious, choosing not to imprint hisownspiritual energy mark.


    "A prudentd!"


    Watching Lan Chang''an leave, Gu Lai shook his head.


    ...


    The magic treasurewas leftat the Hundred Refinement Workshop.


    Lan Chang''an rented a low-grade residence in the market town for a month. The spiritual qi was about the same as Feiyue Manor, but the monthly rent of three spirit stones wasratherpoor value.


    In thetime that followed, he would asionally go out in various disguises to sell items at the market town shops or the free trade area.


    Offloading some less conspicuous spiritual herbs and medicinal ingredients was rtively simple.Pillshedid not need were sold offin batches. Including three low-grade magical weapons, all obtained from Master Ge Yi.


    These spoils did not have distinct identifying features, so there was no need to worry unless the original owners happened to encounter them.


    Over half a month, Lan Chang''an sold off his spoils in batches while changing disguises, bit by bit. In total, he profited nearly a thousand spirit stones.


    Hehad mostlysold off the spirit pills. However, there were a few exceedingly rare medicinal ingredients over two hundred years old, quite eye-catching, and worth hundreds of spirit stones each. Lan Chang''an did not dare easily unload them.


    Especially on this day.


    During his routine inspection, Lan Chang''an discovered that one of the spirit stones he had received had been subtly tampered with. The spirit stone had a tracking powder attachedto it, invisible to the naked eye and undetectable to normal senses.


    Crunch!


    Lan Chang''an''s expression turned ugly as he crushed the spirit stone, unleashing a burst of mes in his palm that released a pungent green smoke into the air.

 Chapter 32: Luck Befitting One’s Life

    Chapter 32: Luck Befitting One¡¯s Life


    "I am being targeted?" If not for Lan Chang''an''s powerful spiritual sense and keen perception, he would have almost missed the tampering on the spirit stone.


    These days, he had been cautious enough to the point he thought he hadn''t revealed any ws.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression fluctuated as he repeatedly pondered and analyzed the reasons.


    Having experienced two lifetimes of cultivation, his experience and understanding were iparable to ordinary cultivators.


    Soon, he had some preliminary deductions.


    The first possibility was that he was simply unlucky and had caught the attention of some evil cultivators in the market town, seen as an easy target.


    The second was that his disguise was not perfect, and he had inadvertently revealed clues during his actions.


    The above two were mainly due to luck. Additionally, there was a third situation that had nothing to do with luck.


    Lan Chang''an looked towards his storage pouch. In his previous life, he knew that certain keen-nosed spirit beasts could detect treasures or aged medicinal ingredients in storage pouches.He had once known an entric person who could tell how many spirit stones were in one''s storage pouch just by being near them.


    In the cultivation world, nothing was too strange, with all kinds of rare and secret techniques constantly emerging. One should never be careless, thinking they were absolutely safe.


    "The storage pouches used in the cultivation world are not true spatial items capable of forming their own spaces." Lan Chang''an sighed lightly.


    The storage pouches used by ordinary cultivators were made bybining low-grade spatial materials with special talisman arrays and forging techniques.


    The theory was simr topressing a few barrel-sized volumes into a small bag. They also had to be paired with weight-reducing talismans, otherwise people would leave footprints wherever they walked.


    The protection of storage pouches mainly relied on talismans and durable materials, unable topletely block certain sophisticated detection methods.


    "Forget it, the profits from fencing these goods will be enough for many years." Lan Chang''an decided not to take any action.


    In thecave dwelling...


    He sat cross-legged, closing his eyes as his consciousnessmunicated with the handsome young man from his first life imprinted on the Nine Seals Stele.


    Over these years, the first life''s soul imprint had been relit by the nourishment of his soul. The higher the realm, the faster it could be lit up.


    However, the white-bearded old man at the peak of Core Formation Realm from his second life had only lit up a single strand of hair.


    Perhaps the soul essence at the Core Formation Realm was too strong. The lighting progress was as slow as a snail.


    If he could light up the soul imprint of his second life...


    When previously facing the evil cultivator Liang Shaotian, Lan Chang''an wouldn''t have needed to put on an act and would have had a chance to severely injure or even kill him.


    Lan Chang''an surmised that once he reached the Foundation Establishment Realm, he could elerate the lighting speed of his second life.


    "No one is watching."


    With the addition of his first life''s soul imprint, Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense could be amplified to the Foundation Establishment realm.


    At the Foundation Establishment Realm, spiritual sense could be extended outwards.


    These past few days, Lan Chang''an had intermittently checked the surroundings of thecave dwellingbut found nothing suspicious.


    "Has the other party realized they had startled the snake and decided to give up, or are they temporarily lying low?" Lan Chang''an no longer went out.


    In the past few days, he had purchased arge batch of first-grade sand stones needed for the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual, spending several hundred spirit stones in scattered, small batches.


    This amount was not exorbitant but also not small, and could have attracted the attention of interested parties.


    Lan Chang''an had heard that there were ck market connections in the market town that were more suitable for selling stolen goods.


    "Since it''s a ck market, it must be a shady ce, with risks inevitably greater than the market town." Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    Without absolute certainty in his strength, he wouldn''t dare touch this ck market.


    ...


    A few dayster...


    The promised time had finally arrived, and Lan Chang''an left thecave dwelling, directly heading to the Hundred Refinement Workshop.


    "A superior-grade magical weapon, the Iron Lotus Umbre, its quality restored to pristine condition." Refiner Gu Lai handed the refurbished magic weapon umbre to Lan Chang''an.


    "Two hundred spirit stones, transactionpleted." Lan Chang''an inspected it and found that the weapon had been repaired quite well, with almost no visible ws.


    "By the way, Master Gu, if I have all the materials, would it be possible for you to forge a new Iron Trellis Umbre in the future?" Before leaving, Lan Chang''an asked.


    This top-grade magical weapon Iron Trellis Umbre, capable of switching forms for attack and defense while concealing deployable umbre needles, quite suited Lan Chang''an''s tastes.


    "Possible! The Iron Lotus Umbre is an imitation of the magic treasure Thousand Mechanism Umbre, which can be imitated up to the highest grade of magical weapon. However, with my current skills, I can only forge superior-grade magical weapons."


    "Furthermore, reforging a new one would be quite costly, at least seven or eight hundred spirit stones." Gu Lai squinted at him.


    Lan Chang''an''s disguise couldn''t deceive his eyes.


    "Then never mind." Lan Chang''an seemed to find the price too exorbitant and directly took his leave.


    His spiritual sense might be powerful, but his current cultivation was insufficient to truly support a superior-grade magic weapon.


    For now, mid-grade magic weapons were most suitable for him. Combined with his powerful spiritual sense, he could control two for a short time, on par with thete Qi-Refining stage.


    ...


    After retrieving the magic weapon...


    Lan Chang''an swiftly left the Five Peaks Market Town without dy.


    Just after flying out of the market town for a distance...


    Lan Chang''an frowned, sensing a tail and a vague sense of scrutiny from behind.


    He quicklynded in a forest.


    Closing his eyes to focus, using the first life''s soul imprint from the Nine Seals Stele to amplify his spiritual sense, he swiftly extended it outwards.


    This state of spiritual sense amplification required concentrating his mind tomunicate with the Nine Seal Stele.


    It couldn''t be used in abat state or normally. Unless he let his first life descend into his body, and consume one opportunity.


    "It''s him..." Lan Chang''an showed a surprised expression, his spiritual sense detecting an elderly man with floral whiskers, at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, taking out a ck mask to wear on his face.


    This person was the shopkeeper of the Spirit Herb Pavilion in the market town.


    Lan Chang''an had visited the man''s shop a few times under different disguises for transactions.


    "Kid, don''t me me for taking action."


    "me yourself for repeatedly loitering around my shop, too tempting for this old man to resist..."


    The Spirit Herb Pavilion shopkeeper made a hand seal with one hand, a plump winged insect hovering above his palm, staring in Lan Chang''an''s direction.


    This insect could sense aged, precious medicinal herbs in a cultivator''s storage pouch.


    "Hmph!" A muffled thunderous sound exploded in his ears.


    The Spirit Herb Pavilion shopkeeper''s face turned pale as his mind wavered.


    In the next moment, the flying insect above his palm let out a shrill cry, bleeding and falling with a swollen belly.


    Instantly killed.


    "Not good, Foundation Establishment Realm!"


    The Spirit Herb Pavilion shopkeeper was terrified, using a blood-burning secret technique and rapidly pressing twospeed boostingtalismans to flee towards the market town at a speed exceeding the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Only after returning to the market town...


    He was drenched in cold sweat, his heart still pounding.


    "Too vicious! A Foundation Establishment cultivatoractuallydisguised himself as a weak Qi-Refining cultivator. Luckily this old man reacted quickly."


    After using the secret technique, the Spirit Herb Pavilion shopkeeper''s face was ghastly pale as he plopped down on the ground with his buttocks, nearly fainting.


    ...


    "So fast!"


    In the forest, Lan Chang''an was dumbfounded, watching the dust trail left by the fleeing septuagenarian.


    The Spirit Herb Pavilion shopkeeper in the market town was considered a local bigshot, with his own background and the cultivation of the eighthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Lan Chang''an had only used his spiritual sense to issue a warning, containing soundwaves that killed the insect capable of sensing medicinal herbs.


    To directly confront and fight, he would have a nine out of ten chance of sess.


    However, if he failed to swiftly defeat the opponent, it might bring trouble. Who knew if the other party had backup or a powerful backer?


    There were Foundation Establishment cultivators stationed within the Five Peaks Market Town.


    "Five Peaks Market Town...the Spirit Herb Pavilion?"


    Lan Chang''an silently made a note before swiftly leaving the Five Peaks Mountain market town.


    ...


    A monthter...


    Lan Chang''an returned to the Jin Yun Valley and had the gatekeeper disciple report his arrival.


    Not long after, the ethereally beautiful Zhao Siyao flew out.


    "Fortunately." Lan Chang''an did not enter the mountain gate, instead taking out a long box from a secluded corner and handing it to Zhao Siyao.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I''ve troubled you this time." Zhao Siyao epted the long box, quickly openingtotake a nce inside with delight showing on her exquisite, painting-like features.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, are there anyrger market towns in our vicinity?" Lan Chang''an inquired.


    Based on his experience, therger the market town''s scale, the safer it was to deal with high-value items.


    "The Five Peaks Market Town is not small," Zhao Siyao pondered. "The nearest market townrger than that is the Yellow Dragon Immortal City. It''s backed by the ck Fog Mountain Range with many wandering cultivators. If one has enough financial resources, it''s even possible to purchase Foundation Establishment Pills there."


    "Yellow Dragon Immortal City? Foundation Establishment Pills?" Lan Chang''an had also heard the Mu family mention the Yellow Dragon Immortal City, though the distance was quite far.


    His heart stirred. In the past, Mu Renlong likely went to the Yellow Dragon Immortal City to establish his foundation.


    "Cultivator Lan, are you currently capable of refining superior-grade talismans?" Before parting, Zhao Siyao asked.


    "It would be quite difficult, with a very low sess rate. If I happened to sessfully refine one, spreading out the cost will result in a serious loss." Lan Chang''an replied.


    If he became a first-rank superior-grade talisman master at this point, his talisman talent would be extremely high.


    Lan Chang''an did not want to catch the attention of major powers and be atalisman craftingtool. Once caught in certain whirlpools, he would lose his autonomy.


    ...


    A monthter, Lan Chang''an returned to Hengshui Prefecture.


    He went to the Marquis'' Residence.


    Lan Chang''an nned to leave a message, not waiting for Li Ergou, returning to Feiyue Lake first.


    Li Ergou was working as a bodyguard in the capital and would need at least a few more months.


    Lin Yi happened to be at the manor and personally received him, also requesting to purchase a batch of new talismans of higher quality than before.


    "Brother Chang''an, from now on we won''t be meeting at the Marquis'' Residence for contact." Lin Yi revealed a mysterious smile.


    "Come, I''ll take you to the stronghold of Hidden Immortal Pavilion and show you a surprise!"

 Chapter 33: Avenging Along the Way

    Chapter 33: Avenging Along the Way


    The Hidden Immortal Pavilion strongholdthat Lin Yi spoke ofwas located in a valley a hundred miles south of Hengshui City.


    It wasn''t far away, sothe two of themflew there directly with their magic tools.


    The valley had a fog illusion array set up.Theyentered an undergroundpce,with corridorswhose wallswereiidwith countless night-pearls.


    "A Spirit Gathering Array, a small-scale spirit ground? Brother Lin''s investment is quite substantial." Lan Chang''an looked around and praised.


    Before entering the underground pce, he had scanned it with his spiritual sense and detected no ambushes.


    "Hahaha, a few yearsagoI was fortunate to discover this underground spring, which allowed me to cultivate this spirit ground. Of course, the cultivation effects here aredefinitelynot as good as a first-grade spiritual vein." Lin Yiughed heartily, his eyes flickering as he spoke.


    Fortunate to discover?


    Lan Chang''an smiled without saying anything, unlessone was extremely lucky, how could a deeply buried underground spring be easily discovered?


    "Indeed, I can''t deceive Brother Lan."Lin Yi sighed, revealing the truth, "This underground spring was something I learned about from a wandering cultivator I killed. To make cultivation easier, Isimplybuilt my stronghold here."


    Inside the underground pce, there were quite a few stone halls. Along the way, they encountered two mundane martial experts.


    "Pavilion Master."


    As they reached a stone hall,there was someone guardingthe entrance - a wandering cultivator at the secondyer of Qi-Refining.


    Lin Yi nodded, leading Lan Chang''an into the stone hall.


    A pungent smell of medicinal herbs and charcoal wafted over.


    Lan Chang''an focused his gaze to see a pill furnace deep inside the stone hall, with some spirit wood charcoal burning beneath it. In front of thepillfurnace sat adisheveledand unkempt man with legs broken at the knees, controlling the fire under thefurnace.


    "Pavilion Master Lin." The disheveled man turned his head, extremely respectful with a ttering expression.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan... you''re here too?" Seeing Lan Chang''an, the disheveled man paused, then revealed an ingratiating smile.


    "Xia Felen?" Lan Chang''an was startled, barely recognizing the man''s identity from that emaciated face.


    "Correct, it''s Xia Felen." Lin Yi smiled, affirming it.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan must be very curious how he ended up here."


    "Two months ago,this person was beatena hundred times and expelled from the Jin Yun Valley. After leaving the sect, the wandering cultivators he had previouslyswindledwith inferior pills and poisonous pills gathered to take revenge, beating him severely. In the end, it was only due to my kindness that I rescuedhimand provided him with a stable job..." Lin Yi exined the circumstances.


    During the narration, Xia Felen secretlycastpleading ncestowardsLan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an nced at his broken legs, cleanly severed at the knees, appearing overly neat. His cultivation had dropped to the secondyer of Qi-Refining, and there also seemed to be a talisman array ced on him.


    Lan Chang''an pondered but did not plead for Xia Felen.


    Ten years ago at the Immortal Gathering Building''s rendezvous...


    Xia Felen, as an apprentice alchemist, arrogantly looked down on the three of them due to his status, even insulting Lan Chang''an. He had even tried to sell them inferior pills.


    Who could have imaginedthat todayhe would be captured in Lin Yi''s secret chamber, reduced to a merepill refiningtool?


    "Brother Xia, just work diligently. As long as you refine pills for me for twenty years to repay the debt of saving your life, I''ll let you return to reunite with your wife and daughter at that time." Lin Yiughed heartily, his heart gratified.


    After leaving the Alchemy Stone Hall.


    Lan Chang''an sold a batch of talismans to Lin Yi. Previously, Lin Yi mainly purchasedbasictalismans and first-rank talismans. This time, he also bought a small quantity of mid-grade talismans.


    Lan Chang''an once again declined Lin Yi''s invitation to be a deputy pavilion master.


    He then rode a magical tool and left the stronghold of the Hidden Immortal Pavilion.


    ...


    Half a monthter, Lan Chang''anwas ridingaspirithorse along the official road.


    In the distance, a long convoy of horse carriages appeared.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t think much of it, preparing to pass by, until he sensed mana fluctuations from multiple sources.


    Cultivators?


    After some thought, Lan Chang''an rode his horse into a nearby mountain forest. Soon after, a caravan of at least a hundred people passed by. Most in the caravan were mortals, but at least twenty or so people emitted fluctuations of spiritual energy.


    "Ah! Zheng Wugong!"


    On a tall spirit horse sat a burlydark-skinnedman with a centipede-like scar on his cheek, nearly extending to his neck.Thiswas thest remaining ninthyer of Qi-Refining elder of the Zheng family.


    Lan Chang''an had an impression of him because twelve years ago, Zheng Wugong had led a team to intercept and kill their batch of immortal seedlings. In that battle years ago, only six spirit seedlings survived out of the original ten.


    Lan Chang''an activated his Evergreen Technique, concealing his aura like withered wood. Even the ninthyer of Qi-Refining Zheng Wugong could not detect his probing.


    "Is Zheng Wugong leading his family to migrate?" Recalling the conflict between the two families three years ago, the Zheng family of Bamboo Leaf Mountain had submitted to the Maple Leaf Huang Family.


    Now,with Zheng Wugong leading his family members to leave, it was clear he did not wish to remain subordinate, intending to seek development elsewhere and continue the Zheng family''s cultivation lineage.


    If they continued relying on the Huang family, the Zheng family''s fate would be to be eventually absorbed.


    Lan Chang''an,havinge from a cultivation lineage in his previous life, understood these families'' emphasis on bloodline inheritance.


    As the caravangonefar away...


    Lan Chang''an was about to continue on his way.


    At that moment, two more spirit horses appeared on the official road, a man and womanwalking leisurely, asionally looking around to check if there were any pursuers behind them.


    "A smooth journey this time, with no action from the Mu and Huang families. Considering the Zhou family''s face, perhaps they truly let us go." One of them, a round-faced man in the sixthyer of Qi-Refining, remarked.


    "It''s a pitylittle Yan''s grudge was not avenged.Going like this, who knows whenin our lifetimeswe''ll have a chance for revenge."The ugly woman beside him,in the fifthyer of Qi-Refining, spoke with a reluctant expression.


    "Revenge? How many times have you mentioned it? Lan Chang''an has been hiding in the Mu family, howwould you get a chance?" The round-faced man said impatiently.


    He also wanted to help his sister Zheng Feng avenge their brother, but he never expected Lan Chang''an to be so elusive, having not emerged in nearly ten years.


    "You think Lan Chang''an has been avoiding your revenge all these years?" A voice sounded, one-third surprised and one-third amused.


    "Who''s there?!" Zheng Feng and Zheng Dong were startled.


    They saw a white-robed youth riding aspirithorse and casually emerging from the mountain forest.


    "Lan Chang''an?!" The ugly woman Zheng Feng''s eyes widened, first stunned, then her eyes narrowed as a cruel smile appeared.


    "Instead of taking the road to heaven, youactuallycame knocking on our door?" Zheng Feng rubbed her eyes, her fleshy face trembling, almost doubting if she was hallucinating.


    In her dreams, she had encountered Lan Chang''an more than once or twice.


    "What smell is that?" Zheng Dong''s nose twitched, sensing something amiss as his body suddenly felt weak and limp,hisbreathing difficult.


    "Not good, poison..." Brown spots appeared on their faces as their bodies swayed unsteadily.


    "You little thief! Youactuallypoisoned us¡ª" ring at the upwind Lan Chang''an with resentful unwillingness, Zheng Feng struggled to retrieve an antidote pill from her storage bag.


    Shhhh! Shhhh!


    The middle-grade magical weapon flying shuttle shed like cold lightning, two blood flowers blooming over a foot away in midair.


    Before the corrosive Marrow Corroding Powder could fully take effect, Lan Chang''an struck swiftly, severing their heads.


    He went forward and took their storage bags.


    Lan Chang''an rode the spirit horse, affixed a wind speed talisman, and sped away with the wind.


    Zheng Wugongonthe othersidewas a mile or two away, so Lan Chang''an was not worried about being pursued.


    ...


    A whileter...


    Sensing something amiss, Zheng Wugong maneuvered his greatsword, slicing through the air as he flew over.


    Seeing the rotting corpses on the ground, Zheng Wugong''s expression turned ugly as he vigntly scanned the surroundings.


    "This is... Marrow Corroding Powder?" After carefully inspecting the bodies, Zheng Wugong couldn''t help eximing.


    He knew Zheng Yuanhua had possessed this virulent poison.


    Zheng Yuanhua had died mysteriously during the operation with Ge Yi, and theyter suspected hewas killedby the evil cultivator Liang Shaotian. Because at that juncture, the ancestors of both families were at the frontline mine region.


    The Mu family only had a ninthyer of Qi-Refining cultivator at home, incapable of threatening Zheng Yuanhua''s life.


    Zheng Wugong''s expression fluctuated, unable to find any leads in the short term.


    He did not dare linger, leading his people to migrate with trepidation, fearing the Mu or Huang family would not let this branch of their family go.


    ...


    "Just this meager gain?" Half an hourter, Lan Chang''anhad sorted throughthe spoils in the storage bags.


    These twomid Qi-Refiningcultivators only provided less than a hundred spirit stones, three low-grade magic weapons, anda pitiful amount ofother resources such as pills.


    As for those three low-grade magic weapons, he would have to find another opportunity to fence them.


    Lan Chang''an had decided on revenge upon seeing the twoalone,and that neither had advanced to thete Qi-Refining stage, making it easy for him to kill them.


    Moreover, even if the declining Zheng Familyter deduced he was the killer, theycked the ability for vengeance after migrating.


    ...


    More than ten dayster...


    Lan Chang''an returned to the Feiyue Manor and inquired about the Zheng family''s situation.


    The Zheng Family branch had indeed migrated away. Reportedly, for a safe migration, Zheng Wugong personally went to the Beast Taming Zhou family to plead for help.


    The two families had previously intermarried, and the Zhou family did not wish to see the Huang family''s power grow, so they spoke up to allow the two families to migrate without pursuit from the other side.


    Back in his courtyard residence...


    Lan Chang''an took out a spirit pet pouch and opened the talisman seal on its opening.


    Squeak!


    Ahugebrownish-yellow rat demon jumped out of the spirit pet pouch.


    It was none other than the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    "I''ve raised you for three yearsandyou still haven''t advanced to thete stage. If you don''t break through soon, I''ll sell youoffto the mines." Lan Chang''an threatened, taking a two-hundred-year-old spirit fruit from his storage bag and tossing it to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    "Squeak squeak..." The Earth Drill Rat''s eyes lit up as it ravenously devoured the spirit fruit.


    Since the precious medicinal ingredients in his possession were not easy to sell, he might as well feed them to his spirit pet, even if it was a bit of a waste.


    Lan Chang''an waved his hand, signaling the Earth Burrowing Rat to drill down into the basement below the room.


    Two years ago, he had formed a spirit pet contract with the Earth Burrowing Rat, no longer needing to rely on abeast tamingtalisman.


    The spirit pet pouch was something he had purchased from a family member at the September Building.


    Since the Beast Taming Zhou family was the local hegemon, some spirit pets or spirit pet pouches circted rtively morein the vicinity.

 Chapter 34: Initial Success in Body Refinement

    Chapter 34: Initial Sess in Body Refinement


    Two to three yearster...


    At the Feiyue Manor, at a separate courtyard by thekeside.


    A hint of the Qi of the ages flickered from the white-robed young man sitting cross-legged.


    Sensing the lingering vitality of the Evergreen Technique''s magical power within his body, Lan Chang''an opened his calm ck pupils and ended his routine cultivation for the day.


    "Squeak squeak!"


    A plump tawny rat, with an ingratiating gaze, rubbed against the hem of his robe. Lan Chang''an showed some disdain, kicking it away with his foot.


    Compared to two or three years ago, the Earth Burrowing Rat had grown fatter and sturdier.


    Two years ago, nourished by precious spirit herbs, the Earth Burrowing Rat sessfully broke through to be ate first-rank demonic beast.


    Its corresponding cultivation realm surpassed its master, Lan Chang''an.A year ago, Lan Chang''an stepped into the fifthyer of Qi-Refining, taking a total of five years. Next door, Li Ergou had advanced to the sixthyer of Qi-Refining half a year ago, several years ahead of his progress.


    "Thirty-three years old and the fifthyer of Qi Condensation." Cultivating the Evergreen Technique, Lan Chang''an''s state of mind was serene, without any hurry or impatience.


    Rtive to his lifespan of one hundred and eighty years in the Qi-Refining realm, he was still in the prime of his youth.


    After his routine cultivation...


    Lan Chang''an removed his clothes and sat in a tub filled with spirit sand, operating the methods of the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual.


    Hot mist rose as faint red and blue crystalline light shimmered on his skin, while some of the spirit sand in the tub gradually dimmed in color.


    "With a steady supply of spirit sand,bined with precious medicinal baths, the progress of the Body Refinement Manual is almost catching up to my mana cultivation."


    Lan Chang''an''s Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual had recently entered the secondyer, corresponding to the middle stage ofQi-Refining. His physical strength was on par with amid first-rankspiritbeast.


    Anyone with such rapid progress could be considered a body refinement prodigy. This was thanks to Lan Chang''an''s financial resources, abundant time and effort. As well as the powerful self-healing ability of the Evergreen Technique!


    Any body refinement technique, during the cultivation process, would inevitably cause bodily damage and leave minor injuries. Yet Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen Technique, in addition to having vast spiritual veins, also possessed a self-healing ability far beyond peers of the same realm.


    A stronger self-healing ability meant Lan Chang''an could spend more time tempering and refining his body.


    "If this continues, my body refinement technique may surpass my mana cultivation." Lan Chang''an pondered, had he strayed slightly from the path of cultivation? In previous years, those precious spirit herbs he had yet to fence were used by Lan Chang''an for medicinal baths and to feed the Earth Burrowing Rat, nowpletely depleted. The total value amounted to several hundred spirit stones, quite wasteful, but it also saved him from having to fence them.


    Not only did it reduce risks, but Lan Chang''an and the Earth Burrowing Rat both received tangible improvements. In addition to body refinement, Lan Chang''an dabbled in alchemy during his leisure time.


    In his previous life, he had to cultivate, research talisman arts, and worry about family affairs, leaving no energy to learn other cultivation arts.


    This third life, Lan Chang''an nned to venture into alchemy. Alchemists could be counted among the top cultivation arts.


    After experimenting, Lan Chang''an discovered his alchemy talent was very ordinary, far inferior to his talisman path.


    With the memories of two lifetimes and the augmentation of his powerful spiritual sense, over the years he had barely be a first-rank low-grade alchemist.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an stretchedzily and strolled to the courtyard.


    Squeak squeak!


    The obedient Earth Burrowing Rat brought two letters.


    Currently, two first-grade talisman arrays were set up in the courtyard, one for defense and one for concealment.


    Ordinary cultivators could not probe them, allowing the Earth Burrowing Rat to asionallye above ground.


    Lan Chang''an took the letters and fed the Earth Burrowing Rat a pill.


    The two letters were recently sent by Lin Yi and Zhao Siyao respectively.


    In Lin Yi''s letter, he confirmed the next batch of talismans for trade.


    Additionally, Lin Yi mentioned a joyous asion: his sixth son possessed a spirit root.


    With a spirit root perception of eighteen, it was just shy of being considered a mid-grade spirit root.


    Lin Yi was born into the royal family, he got married earlier and had many wives, so the number of children he had in recent years was not much fewer than Li Ergou''s.


    Lin Yi''s sixth son was named Lin Lu.


    Saying he hoped the child could progress steadily and stably in the future, just like Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an''s face twitched slightly. Even with his temperament, he almost wanted to curse.


    Lin Yi giving his son this name hinted at taking liberties with him, potentially calling the child "Little Six" or "Little Lu" daily.


    He suspected Lin Yi harbored some resentment towards him.


    Opening Zhao Siyao''s letter,itshared some recent developments.


    Notably, over the past two years, Zhao Siyaohadsessfully be a core disciple in the inner sectpetition.


    Not only that, but Zhao Siyao had also taken a Fake-Dan Immortal female cultivator as her master. Bing a core disciple allowed Zhao Siyao to receive more resources for her cultivation.


    Over the past two years, she had repaid the spirit stones owed to Lan Chang''an and theothers,and even stated in the letter that she owed them a favor.


    What was borrowed was returned, and a favor was promised.


    Lan Chang''an''s investment in forming connections was starting to bear fruit.


    If Zhao Siyao could advance to the Foundation Establishment Realm in the future, this favor would carry more weight.


    In the lower realms of cultivation, having the friendship of a sect''s Foundation Establishment cultivator would count as having a certain background to rely on.


    Lan Chang''an had not expended much effort, and the spirit stones he lent out were repaid. He was quite idle normally, so the time cost was negligible.


    With more such potentially powerful friends, it would naturally be smooth sailing in the cultivation world in the future, much more stable than constantly fighting and making enemies with others.


    "However, even though Zhao Siyao has be a core disciple, obtaining a Foundation Establishment Pill won''t be so easy." Through the letter correspondence, Lan Chang''an gained more understanding of the Jin Yun Valley.


    Foundation Establishment Pills had to be exchanged with sect contributions.


    Core disciples had higher priority for exchanging Foundation Establishment Pills and could get a slight discount.


    Zhao Siyao''s cultivation was about to reach the ninthyer of Qi-Refining. After some years, she would likely have to struggle to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an left the courtyard to rx.


    He noticed that next door, Li Ergou was teaching his second son Mu Ershun some spells.


    "Uncle Lan."


    Upon seeing Lan Chang''an, the bushy-browed Mu Ershun respectfully greeted him.


    Mu Ershun was now twelve or thirteen years old, at the firstyer ofQi-Refining.


    On weekdays, he was taught and instilled with loyalty to the family by the elders.


    "Fifteen years, timereallyflies. Li Ergou''s children have be cultivators." Lan Chang''anmented in his heart.


    If not for his numerous wives and many children in his previous life, seeing those around him getting married and having families would inevitably make him feel a sense of destion in this life.


    "If my previous life''s Great Kun and this life''s Great Qing cultivation realms are both part of the Heaven Honoured Continent, I wonder if any outstanding cultivators emerged from my descendants." Lan Chang''an had this thought more than once.


    In his previous life, he was not called Lan Chang''an. Strictly speaking, he no longer had any blood rtion to those descendants.


    The increasingly wealthy Li Ergou led his son over, smiling as he asked, "Big brother, what do you think? Can my son Ershun learn to draw talismans in the future?"


    Mu Ershun only had a low-grade spiritual root with the perception of twelve points, basicallycking the qualifications to establish his foundation.


    Li Ergou wanted his son to learn a trade. He had long envied Lan Chang''an''s talisman arts, which could earn spirit stones and provide protection on the path of cultivation.


    "Drawing talismans depends on his talent," Lan Chang''an did not give a conclusive answer.


    "In a while, the Young Lady will be opening a talisman shop in the newly established Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market. She ns to recruit two talisman art apprentices, and I want Ershun to try." Li Ergou revealed his thoughts.


    "The Bamboo Leaf Market Town, so soon?" Lan Chang''an had heard some rumors about this.


    Ever since the Zheng Family withdrew from Bamboo Leaf Mountain, the site of that second-grade spiritual vein had been transformed into a workshop market by the Maple Leaf Huang Family in the past two years.


    Named the Bamboo Leaf Market Town. The former Bamboo Leaf Mountain Zheng family hadpletely be a thing of the past.


    To attract people to the newly opened market town, the Huang family gave away or sold at very low prices some shop properties to families like the Beast Taming Zhou family and the Feiyue Mu family.


    The Mu family obtained two inexpensive shop properties.


    One was going to open a restaurant specializing in spirit fish and aquatic products, taking advantage of Feiyue Lake.


    The other was going to be a talisman shop.


    "Alright, if I have the right to rmend, I''ll put in a good word for you." A thought shed through Lan Chang''an''s mind as he understood Li Ergou''s intentions.


    He had a premonition that the Mu family might seek him out during this period.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an''s premonition was not wrong.


    Just the next day, a Mu family elder paid a visit.


    "Young Lady, what matter requires you toe in person?" Lan Chang''an rose to wee her, feigning a slightly ttered manner.


    Mu Xiuyun wore a green gossamer long dress, gentle and graceful, elegant and poised.


    She was around the same age as Lan Chang''an, maintaining her youthful appearance with a few more hints of mature charmpared to her maiden days when they first met.


    She was now at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, undoubtedly a high-ranking member of the family.


    "There''s no need to be so courteous between us. I can feel you don''t truly revere anyone anyway." Mu Xiuyun smiled, her eyes flickering.


    As fellow talisman masters, they had naturally interacted over the years Lan Chang''an had been with the Mu family.


    After weing Mu Xiuyun into the hall, Lan Chang''an brewed some tea.


    "Lan Chang''an, the family ns to open a talisman shop in the Bamboo Leaf Market Town. Are you interested in bing the head talisman master there?" Mu Xiuyun got straight to the point.


    "Don''t be in a hurry to answer. The shop will be taken care of by me, and you only need to refine a portion of the talismans while asionally guiding the apprentices. In addition to the family''s original agreed terms, I''ll provide you with another sry."

 Chapter 35: Bamboo Leaf Market Town

    Chapter 35: Bamboo Leaf Market Town


    Chapter 35 Bamboo Leaf Market Town


    When Mu Xiuyun spoke to this point, Lan Chang''an couldn''t refuse.


    Whatreallyswayed him was the double sry.


    Over the years, as his talisman arts improved, the Mu family not only gave him the treatment of a regr n cultivator, but also an additional spirit stone sry.


    Ifbined with the shop sry, Lan Chang''an would have a considerable steady ie.


    His cultivation, body refinement, and raising the Earth Burrowing Rat were not insignificant expenses.


    In any case, Lan Chang''an had plenty of spare time. Bamboo Leaf Mountain had a second-grade spiritual vein. Even without enjoying the core area''s spirit vein, the cultivation effect wasdefinitelynot inferior to Feiyue Manor.


    Moreover, with the market''s heavy human traffic, it would be far better at sensing information about the cultivation world than the rtively secluded Feiyue Manor.


    "Young Miss, do you think Mu Ershun is suitable to be an apprentice?" Lan Chang''an didn''t forget Li Ergou''s request."Mu Ershun?" Mu Xiuyun pondered. "That child understands a bit of talisman theory and barely meets the requirements. Since you''ve brought it up, I''ll give him a spot." After chatting for a while, Mu Xiuyun stood up.


    "Lan Chang''an, what''s your current sess rate for superior-grade talismans?" As she walked to the courtyard, she asked.


    "A one in four sess rate, which is still a loss," Lan Chang''an answered.


    First-rank superior-grade talismans required much higher costs for talisman paper, spirit ink, and much greater loss of talisman brushes.


    Painting each superior-grade talisman caused a considerable drain on the spirit and mind of those at the Qi-Refining stage, and time itself was a cost.


    "This progress is already not small." Mu Xiuyun nodded and left the separate courtyard, leaving behind a fragrance like cassia and orchids.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    A small flying boat set off from Feiyue Manor, sailing amidst the clouds.


    Mu Xiuyun stood gracefully at the bow, her beautiful hair hanging to her waist and dress fluttering, with a side profile as beautiful as a painting.


    Lan Chang''an stood beside her.


    Behind were a boy and a girl, both apprentices looking a little shy.


    The boy with thick eyebrows and big eyes was Mu Ershun.


    The other Mu family girl was named Mu Shan, a beautiful seventeen or eighteen-year-old at the secondyer of Qi-Refining who was a talisman apprentice.


    Over the years, the Mu family''s economic situation had greatly improved, and they had also purchased two more small flying boats.


    This was mainly because of the stable situation, where in addition to the Feiyue Lake aquatic products, the Mu family also had ie from aplete purple copper mine.


    Mu Renlong, this new Foundation Establishment cultivator, was in the prime of life without worries about his lifespan. The addition of immortal seedlings like Li Ergou brought new blood to the Mu family.


    The reinvigorated Mu family exuded an aura of prosperity.


    Along the way, they inevitably mentioned the newly established Bamboo Leaf Market Town.


    "Bamboo Leaf Mountain''s geographical location is very suitable for opening a market. There are no well-established cultivator trading ces nearby, be it Five Peaks Market Town or Yellow Dragon Immortal City, they are all quite far from the surrounding cultivator families..." Mu Xiuyun introduced the situation of the new market.


    "The establishment of the Bamboo Leaf Market Town makes things more convenient for several Foundation Establishment families, dozens of small Qi-Refining families, and numerous scattered cultivators, filling a gap."


    Lan Chang''an had seen the maps. The Huang family''s move was exquisite.


    As for the Beast Taming Zhou Family, their territory was more widespread and further away from this area.


    Moreover, the Zhou family''s base was near the branch ranges of the ck Fog Mountain Range. Although there was also a market in that area, it mainly dealtinmaterials from demonic beasts and spiritual beasts due to the geographical factors, making it difficult to radiate outwards.


    "In order toattract people, the Huang family sold market shops at low prices to nearby Foundation Establishment families."


    "What about the Zhou family?" Lan Chang''an asked curiously.


    The Zhou family had a Fake-Dan Immortal, already surpassing the level of a Foundation Establishment family.


    "The Huang family gifted the Zhou family five shops and ten cave dwellings on Bamboo Leaf Mountain," Mu Xiuyun said, her voice slightly chilly.


    "So many?" Mu Ershun and Mu Shan eximed in surprise behind them.


    Once the Bamboo Leaf Market Town flourished, even a single shop would be a money tree.


    "The shameless Maple Leaf Huang family, sucking up to the Zhou family like this," the thirteen-year-old Mu Ershun could see it and muttered with disdain.


    In the past two years, Lan Chang''an had heard rumors that the Maple Leaf Huang family wanted to send a n daughter to the Zhou family as a concubine.


    "Establishing the market, giving benefits to the Zhou family, mending rtions, currying favor with one or two branches, and then seeking a marriage alliance..." Lan Chang''an inwardly praised the Huang family''s meticulous nning.


    In previous years, the Beast Taming Zhou Family had been somewhat dissatisfied with the Huang family''s absorption of the Zheng family. However, over the past two years, the Zhou family''s exclusion and hostility towards the Huang familyhaddecreased significantly.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    The flying boatnded in the Bamboo Leaf Market Town.


    "Such a rich wood spirit qi." Lan Chang''an observed the terrain and found that arge number of spirit bamboo were nted on Bamboo Leaf Mountain, mostly semi-spirit nts and a few first-grade spirit bamboo.


    Spirit bamboo had once been the Zheng family''s main industry, just like the Mu family''s Feiyue Lake aquatic products.


    The market was built on the midslope of Bamboo Leaf Mountain, its scale slightly smaller than the Five Peaks Market Town that Lan Chang''an had visited before.


    After all, the Five Peaks Market Town was backed by the WanJian Zhuo Family, one of the seven great cultivation families of the Liang Kingdom.


    At the foot of the mountain were vast spirit fields, mainly growing spirit grains, and low-grade medicinal herbs.


    Apart from a few cave dwellings, there was a luxurious mansion at the mountain peak, surrounded by spirit bamboo, with no shortage of first-grade spiritual bamboo.


    The spirit qi emanating from there reached the level of a second-grade spiritual vein.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t need to guess, important members of the Huang family must be living in that mansion on the mountaintop.


    The newly opened market streets were deserted with few people around.


    "This is our talisman shop," Mu Xiuyun came to a three-story building with a que engraved "Mu Family Spirit Talisman Shop."


    The shop upied half an acre and had a rear courtyard with a few simple wooden huts.


    The first floor was for disying products, with a reception room in the back.


    They mainly sold first-rank and basic talismans, as well as rted items such as talisman paper, spirit vermilion sand, talisman brushes, and talisman painting books.


    Half of the second floor was a storage room with multiple restrictions, while the other half was partitioned off into a suite as a ce for the chief talisman master to reside.


    This would be Lan Chang''an''s residence in the future.


    The third floor was for the shopkeeper, with a spacious talisman room set aside.


    As for the two apprentices Mu Ershun and Mu Shan, they lived in the simple wooden huts in the rear courtyard.


    The four tidied up the ce.


    The next day, the Mu Family Spirit Talisman Shop officially opened for business.


    Some forces and shopkeepers on good terms with the Mu family came to offer congrattions and sent flower baskets.


    This was Lan Chang''an''s first time here, so he mingled and got acquainted, helping Mu Xiuyun receive guests.


    As they greeted peopleing and going, Mu Xiuyun discreetly transmitted her voice, introducing Lan Chang''an to the identities and backgrounds of the various guests.


    Amidst the bustle, listening to the youngdy''s gentle and melodious voice, Lan Chang''an''s mood improved considerably.


    "Miss Mu, why didn''t you let me know the shop was opening? This Huang could have helped rally some friends to support the asion."


    Towards evening, a young man dressed in a purple robe with a stately bearing calmly strode into the shop.


    Behind the young man were two Qi-Refining mid-stage bodyguards standing guard at the entrance.


    "Young Master Huang, this girl has failed to extend a proper invitation," Mu Xiuyun took light steps forward, an unnatural smile appearing on her face.


    She discreetly gave Lan Chang''an a signal with her eyes.


    Lan Chang''an immediately understood the visitor''s identity - Huang Yu, the young master of the Maple Leaf Huang family.


    Years ago, when the two familieswere in conflict, the Mu family had originally intended to marry Mu Xiuyun to Huang Yu of the Huang family.


    However, the Huang family''s attitude was arrogant, only willing to give her the status of a concubine at most, so the marriage fell through.


    "Young Master Huang," Lan Chang''an cupped his fist in salutation.


    Huang Yu''s phoenix eyes nced at Lan Chang''an and gave a slight nod, not asking about his identity.


    After that, Huang Yu focused solely on the elegant and beautiful Mu Xiuyun, conversing andughing amiably with a cultured demeanor.


    If an ordinary person stared constantly at a beauty, it would seem uncouth.


    But with Huang Yu''s refined manner, his faint smile made it seem like admiration.


    Of course, this was also due to the privilege of his status.


    The young master Huang Yu possessed a high-grade spirit root and had reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, making him the administrator of this market town.


    His status and position naturally ced him above others.


    They chatted for a while until the sky darkened.


    Huang Yu nced at Lan Chang''an beside him before finally leaving.


    As he departed, he handed Mu Xiuyun a letter.


    Only after Huang Yu left did the smile disappear from Mu Xiuyun''s face.


    She quickly scanned the letter, a sh of cold light flickering in her starry eyes.


    She then handed the letter to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an was stunned for a moment, not expecting the youngdy to be so open with her private affairs.


    After reading the letter, Lan Chang''an was astonished.


    In the letter, Huang Yu said that since thest time he saw Mu Xiuyun, he couldn''t think of anything else. He was willing to demote his current wife to a concubine and marry Mu Xiuyun into his household.


    If Mu Xiuyun agreed, he would offer three shops and five cave dwellings in the market town as a betrothal gift.


    "It may not be that simple," Lan Chang''an pondered with a wry smile.


    Fortunately,that youngmaster Huang showed no intention of pestering her further, not visiting for a long time after.


    That letter seemed like merely a joke.


    ...


    Business was slow for all the shops in the newly established market.


    As the chief talisman master, Lan Chang''an also enjoyed the tranquility, taking time off to guide his apprentices.


    Due to the abundance of spirit bamboo, Bamboo Leaf Mountain held an advantage for wood-based cultivation techniques.


    The shop''s location had a spirit qi environment equivalent to a first-grade spiritual vein, so Lan Chang''an''s cultivation efficiency here was even higher than at the Feiyue Manor.


    This allowed him more free time each day, which he sometimes spent drinking tea and alcohol in the market town.


    During this period, a pavilion for entertainment also opened in the market. However, Lan Chang''an never visited it.


    Half a year passed in the blink of an eye.


    The business of the Mu Family Spirit Talisman Shop gradually picked up. <ul> <li>Your feedback and ratings are greatly appreciated. If you have a moment, please consider rating this novel on Novelupdates.</li> <li>Should you notice any errors, kindly mention them in thements below so I can correct them. Thank you!</li> </ul>

 Chapter 36: The Zhou Familys Granddaughter

    Chapter 36: The Zhou Family''s Granddaughter


    Chapter 36 The Zhou Family''s Granddaughter


    Mu Family Spirit Talisman Shop, second floor.


    Lan Chang''an held his breath and focused his mind, gripping a violet bristle talisman brush as it danced across the premium talisman paper in an unbroken flow of inspiration.


    After sustaining this for over a hundred breaths, the reddish-brown talisman patterns took shape on the paper, with a sh of light as they solidified sessfully.


    Whew!


    Lan Chang''an exhaled deeply, the Evergreen mana in his body swiftly recovering.


    Although his spiritual sense was strong, his cultivation level still limited him from drawing superior-grade talismans withplete ease.


    Recently, the talisman shop''s business had picked up. In addition to brisk sales of middle and low-grade talismans, there was considerable demand for superior-grade ones too.


    The Bamboo Leaf Market Town''s location was ideal, filling the market demands of several Foundation Establishment families, dozens of Qi-Refining families, and numerous wandering cultivators in the area.For cultivation families, talismans were a convenient reserve ofbat strength.


    The superior-grade talismans in the shop were mainly used to quell the market, with a monthly purchase limit of five, sold at a loss.


    Even Mu Xiuyun, the Mu Family''s number one talisman master, could only barely manage not to make a loss, and this was stilldue to the fact thather cultivation had risen greatly recently, improving her sess rate.


    As a high-ranking member of the family, Mu Xiuyun had to juggle her cultivation, managing the shop, and drawing talismans, leaving her energy limited.


    Drawing mid and low-grade talismans could earn a steady profitofspirit stones. But drawing superior-grade talismans consumed a lot of energy, so just breaking even was effectively a loss.


    "When I refine ordinary superior-grade talismans, my sess rate reaches ny percent, so I''ll just have tough at this extra material."


    Lan Chang''an chuckled as he stored thepleted superior-grade talismanintohis storage pouch.


    Lan Chang''an''s public talisman skill was a notch below Mu Xiuyun''s, resulting in a slight loss when refining superior-grade talismans.


    Even so, Mu Xiuyun still required him to produce two or three each month.


    These excess materials or talismans were essentially Lan Chang''an fleecing the Mu Family''s sheep.


    "Although there''s a need for the shop to quell the buyers, for the youngdy to be so willing to take a loss must mean she truly wants to nurture me." As Lan Chang''an fleeced the sheep, he felt a slight pang of guilt.


    Ever since the incident with the traitor in the herb garden, Mu Xiuyun''s attitude towards him had subtly changed.


    She trusted and relied on him more, not minding the asional casual male-female interaction in private.


    ...


    "Uncle Lan Chang''an, the Frostwind Talismans in the shop have sold out, and that elder from the Zhou Family hase asking for more."


    Just as Lan Chang''an finished adjusting his breath and was about to continue drawing talismans, Mu Ershun''s slightly urgent voice came from the doorway.


    Over this half year, under Lan Chang''an''s guidance, Mu Ershun became an official apprentice able to handle talisman paper and practice basic entry-level talismans. Inparison, the other apprentice Mu Shan already had some foundation and was learning to draw low-grade talismans.


    "Frostwind Talisman?" Lan Chang''an was a little surprised. The Frostwind Talisman was a rtively unpopr middle-grade talisman with a decent area of effect, but low lethality and few buyers.


    Originally, this type of talisman was added by Mu Xiuyun to expand the shop''s product range and increasepetitiveness.


    But unexpectedly, the few Frostwind Talismans that Lan Chang''an had disyed on the counter half a year ago without anyone inquiring about them were suddenly bought out in two days. Since it wasn''t a hot item, Lan Chang''an hadn''t replenished the stock in time.


    Little did he expect that a customer woulde urging for more today. Moreover, this customer was ate Qi-Refining elder from the Beast Taming Zhou Family, not someone to be neglected.


    Mu Xiuyun wasn''t at the shop today, so Lan Chang''an had to receive the guest himself.


    "Ok, I''ll go take a look." Lan Chang''an went downstairs to the shop and saw an elderly man from the Zhou Family dressed in in clothes, slightly hunched with age, looking like an old servant.


    "Are you the Talisman Master Lan who refines the Frostwind Talisman?" Theinlydressed elder was at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, his eyes zing as he spoke quite politely.


    "Indeed, I am Lan Chang''an. May I ask how many more Frostwind Talismans the elder requires?" Lan Chang''an replied with neither arrogance nor humility.


    "The more the better, preferably of premium quality ones," theinlydressed elder said with full confidence, causing Lan Chang''an to pause slightly.


    He didn''t understand what the other party needed so many Frostwind Talismans for.


    Of course, he didn''t need to pry into the customer''s purposes and secrets. After pondering, he said, "The difficulty of refining mid-grade Frostwind Talismans is rather high. I only have a few left in stock."


    "I''ll take them all," theinlydressed elder said impatiently.


    Lan Chang''an took out four Frostwind Talismans from his storage pouch, including one premium quality one.


    Theinlydressed Zhou Family elder was also generous, directly paying thirty spirit stones, higher than the market price.


    "I''m sorry to trouble Talisman Master Lan, there may be more demand in the future." theinlydressed elder said before hurriedly leaving.


    "What is that elder''s status in the Zhou Family?" Lan Chang''an asked curiously.


    At the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, he would be considered a high-ranking memberinthe Mu Family, but likely not a core member of the Zhou Family.


    "Not sure." both Mu Shan and Mu Ershun shook their heads.


    "Talisman Master Lan, you''ve had a fortuitous stroke of luck, being able to bask in the aura of a nobleman." The one who spoke was the next-door Rainbows and Silk Pavilion''s Shopkeeper Xu, a well-dressed middle-aged man with a kind and friendly voice.


    The Rainbows and Silk Pavilion mainly sold cultivator robes, including headdresses, essories, and shoes.


    This shopkeeper Xu was well-liked, he could chat with anyone and was well-informed. He was one of the few acquaintances Lan Chang''an had in the market.


    "The one just now was the old servant of Zhou Qingxuan, the granddaughter of the Zhou Family patriarch. His purchase of talismans from you must be for the needs of that genius granddaughter of the Zhou Family."


    "A ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator as a servant?" Lan Chang''an was a little surprised.


    Although the Zhou Family''s old ancestor was a Fake-Dan Immortal, he had many children and grandchildren. Not to mention a great-granddaughter, even the number of granddaughters was unknown.


    "Zhou Qingxuan is no ordinary granddaughter. Not only does she possess a high-grade spiritual root, but she also has an exceptional talent for taming spirit beasts. She is deeply favored by the old patriarch and considered a precious pearl in the Zhou Family that tames spirit beasts. Even the young master Huang has a bit of a soft spot for her."


    The shopkeeper Xu from the Rainbows and Silk Pavilion exined.


    "I see, thank you Shopkeeper Xu for the rification," Lan Chang''an understood.


    That servant''s background of being the Zhou Family''s precious granddaughter meant she was not someone to be offended.


    The Zhou Family''s old servant had already visited twice, so there was no telling if he woulde again. Lan Chang''an had to remind his apprentices to be courteous when receiving him.


    ...


    Two or three dayster.


    The Zhou Family''s old servant came to the shop again, wearing a wry smile.


    "Talisman Master Lan, I''ll have to trouble you again. My youngdy says the Frostwind Talisman isn''t potent enough and wants to purchase the more potent Frost Descent Talisman instead."


    "Frost Descent? But that''s a first-rank superior-gradetalisman,and a rather obscure one at that. I''m afraid I don''t have that capability," Lan Chang''an couldn''t help butment, shaking his head.


    The difficulty of refining Frost Descent was slightly higher than ordinary first-rank superior-grade talismans.


    If he could casually refine it, he would be considered a solid first-rank superior-grade talisman master, surpassing even Mu Xiuyun''s skill.


    Although it was a chance to forge a good rtionship with the genius Zhou Family granddaughter, Lan Chang''an didn''t want to stick his neck out.


    It would be more stable to wait until he reached thete Qi-Refining stage at over thirty years old before bing a first-rank superior-grade talisman master.


    "s, I thought as much too," the Zhou Family''s old servant sighed, but he was quite affable as he hurriedly left.


    "Lan Chang''an, are youreallyunable to refine Frost Descent? Even if the cost is higher?" Mu Xiuyun had returned to the shop that day, her starry eyes holding a glimmer of expectation.


    Each talisman master was limited by their energy and could only refine a certain number of talisman typespetently.


    It wasn''t that they couldn''t refine other talismans, but theycked the proficiency, resulting in a very low sess rate, let alone something obscure like the Frost Descent talisman.


    Mu Xiuyun and Lan Chang''an were both talisman masters of the Mu Family. In earlier years, Mu Xiuyun had Lan Chang''an practice a set of talismans that didn''t ovep with her own.


    The Frostwind Talisman was one of Lan Chang''an''s choices.


    Frost Descent could be considered an advanced version of the Frostwind Talisman. With the prerequisite foundation and proficiency, it would be rtively easier for him to practice the Frost Descent Talisman.


    "I tried before, it was very difficult." Lan Chang''an replied impassively.


    In fact,his storage pouch contained a few Frost Descent talismans, two of which were premium grade.


    "Forget it then." Mu Xiuyun said with some regret.


    If they could form a connection with the prestigious and talented Zhou Family granddaughter, it would be a good thing for the Mu Family.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an thought the matter would end there.


    But that afternoon, the Zhou Family''s old servant returnedagain, this time apanied by a charming youngdy in a yellow dress with bright, lively eyes.


    "Zhou Qingxuan! The Zhou Family''s talented granddaughter!" The shopkeeper Xu from the neighboring Rainbows and Silk Pavilion couldn''t help butgape,before a hint of schadenfreude appeared at the corners of his mouth.


    "What instructions does Miss Zhou have for our humble shop?" Mu Xiuyun walked out gracefully.


    "Bring out the talisman master who refines the Frostwind Talisman," the youngdy in the yellow dress said tly.


    "What advice does Miss Zhou have for me?" The white-robed Lan Chang''an came out and politely asked.


    Gazing at the calm andposed handsome youth before her, Zhou Qingxuan paused for a moment.


    She couldn''t help but ask, "How old are you?"


    Asking about age when this wasn''t even a courtship visit?


    Lan Chang''an inwardly scoffed as he replied, "This Lan Chang''an will be thirty-four years old soon."


    Zhou Qingxuan let out a "pffft"ugh, her pretty face lighting up brilliantly. "You''re already in your thirties? I thought you were a once-in-a-century genius talisman master."


    Lan Chang''an''s apparent age made him seem around the same as her.


    Lan Chang''an gave an awkward smile, his mind unperturbed.


    "YousurnamedLan, thisdy wants to capture thete first-rank Firebird that has appeared on Bamboo Leaf Mountain recently. I thought a few more Frostwind Talismans would be enough, but they still fell short. With the assistance of Frost Descent, this youngdy would have a much greater chance of sess."


    Zhou Qingxuan was only seventeen years old, full of youthful arrogance, yet her cultivation was about the same as the thirty-something Lan Chang''an, already afifthyerQi-Refining cultivator.


    "Miss Zhou, you should be well aware of the difficulty in refining the Frost Descent Talisman. This one has not truly be a first-rank superior-grade talisman master, how can I be sure of refining it?" Lan Chang''an looked helpless.

 Chapter 37: Rumors of Rogue Cultivators

    Chapter 37: Rumors of Rogue Cultivators


    Chapter 37 Rumors of Rogue Cultivators


    "Since you can refine premium FrostwindTalismans,with a bit more effort, Frost Descent Talisman is not without a chance."


    Zhou Qingxuan''s exquisite brows furrowed as her bright, lively eyes stared intently at LanChang''an,as if trying to exert some pressure.


    The Frostwind Talisman could be considered a simplified version of the Frost Descent Talisman. Being able to refine a premium Frostwind Talisman meant his technique was already quite close to that required for Frost Descent.


    If facing Zhou Qingxuan''s formidable background, an ordinary cultivator might betrembling in fearright now.


    After all, she was the beloved granddaughter of a Fake-Dan Immortal. Even if the MuFamily''sFoundation Establishment Mu Renlong came in person, he would have to act courteously.


    "Miss Zhou is looking too highly upon me," Lan Chang''an said indifferently.In his previous life,he was the Core Formation Ancestor of a cultivation family, so how could he be afraid of this little granddaughter''s feigned ferocity?


    "Miss Zhou, capturing ate first-rank Firebird doesn''t necessarily require Frost Descent." Mu Xiuyun gently advised.


    "I''m a spirit beast tamer. I must independently defeat and capture that firebird. Only then will it truly respect me and be easier to tameter. Frost Descent is the optimal choice, without causing it harm.""Hmph! The newly opened Bamboo Leaf Market Town can''tevenfind a skilled talisman master. We are too far from the Zhou Family Estate. Otherwise, why would thisdy bother with a tiny shop like yours?" Zhou Qingxuan stood her ground, her pearly teeth biting her rosy lips, looking quite stubborn in achieving her goal.


    Lan Chang''an inwardly mused that the youngdy was pursuing perfection - independently capturing the firebird without help, yet also without harming the target.


    From this perspective, Frost Descent wasindeedquite suitable with its attribute advantage and powerful restraining ability.


    For the youngdy to ce such importance on it, that fire bird''s bloodline grade must not be low, at least a superior-grade one.


    "Talisman Master Lan, are youreallyunwilling to help with this?" Seeing Lan Chang''an''s indifference, Zhou Qingxuan wrinkled her jade-like nose as her exquisite, delicate face leaned in close, lightly taking a breath.


    Less than half a foot away, the faint fragrance of a maiden mixed with her exhaled breaths.


    Lan Chang''an felt a strange sensation in his heart. Could this youngdyreallybe trying to employ feminine wiles?


    His age was twice that of the other party''s. If he had married as early as Li Ergou, Zhou Qingxuan would likely be around the same age as his daughter.


    Just as the thought arose, Zhou Qingxuan''s charming eyes flickered with a hint of mischief as her rosy lips moved, transmitting a coldugh:


    "Didn''t expect Talisman Master Lantoactuallylike demonic beasts like the Earth Burrowing Rat?" Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an''s heart skipped a beat, no longer daring to underestimate this girl.


    Zhou Qingxuan''s exceptional talent for taming spirit beasts was well-deserved.Her earlier move of leaning in to breathe was not for anyintimacy,butratherto confirm through scent that he raisedanEarth Burrowing Rat.


    This Earth Burrowing Rat was the spoils from ying that Alchemist Ge Yi.


    That Alchemist had obtained thebeast tamingtoken from Zheng Yuanhua as support.


    The ultimate source was the Beast Taming Zhou Family!


    "If my memory serves, my Zhou Family doesn''t seem to have sold any Earth Burrowing Rats to your Mu Family.Oh, butyou''re surnamed Lan, so you may not necessarily be from the Mu n." Zhou Qingxuan''s lips curved into adeepersmile,as if she had suddenly grasped Lan Chang''an''s weakness.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression changed slightly, but he was not panicked.


    Indeed, a middle-grade bloodline spirit beast corresponded to a middle-grade spiritual root for cultivators and was quite valuable. The Zhou Family strictly controlled and recorded every spirit beast they sold.But if they had sold more than just one or two Earth Burrowing Rats, it would bedifficultto pinpoint the exact one.Moreover, there were other avenues to obtain Earth Burrowing Rats.


    "What does Miss Zhou intend?" Lan Chang''an remained expressionless as hetook a stepback, maintaining distance from Zhou Qingxuan.


    He was unattached and could run awayat any time, sohe wouldn''t be easily coerced.


    "Talisman Master Lan, if you can refine the Frost Descent Talisman I need, thisdy promises to owe you a favor," Zhou Qingxuan smiled radiantly, her expression pure and charmingly mischievous.


    Lan Chang''an understood - this was a carrot-and-stick approach.


    Such tactics at her young age.


    Of course, the ultimate goal was still to have Lan Chang''an obediently put in his utmost effort to refine the talisman.


    Upon hearing Zhou Qingxuan''s promise of a favor, Mu Xiuyun present, as well as Shopkeeper Xu from the Rainbows and Silk Pavilion, couldn''t help but be astonished.


    A favor from the beloved granddaughter of a Fake-Dan Immortal carried substantial weight.


    Given Zhou Qingxuan''s spirit root talent and background, she could be estimated to be at least a formidable Foundation Establishment spirit beast tamer in the future.


    "Give me ten premium frost-attribute talisman papers. I can only try, not guarantee sess," Lan Chang''an sighed,lookingresigned to ept.


    Frost-attribute talisman paper was non-universal, made from the skins of corresponding attribute demonic beasts and spirit woods.


    Its price was often more than double that of regr talisman paper, with a slight increase in sess probability when forming talismans.


    "Premium frost-attribute talisman paper? Good!I''ll give you twenty, and if you can refine four,this first-grade talisman brush willbe giftedto you as well."Zhou Qingxuan smiledwarmlyas she took out the talisman papers, also handing over a white premium talisman brush.


    Lan Chang''an paused for a moment before epting the papers and brush.


    It seemed thatfrom start to finish, hehadbeepletelycontrolledby the Zhou Family''s talented granddaughter.But who could know that Lan Chang''an''s storage pouch already contained ready-made Frost Descenttalismans.


    Thiswas simply resources and a favorbeing deliveredto his doorstep.


    The talisman brush promised by Zhou Qingxuan was a premium first-rank item, better thanwhat Lan Chang''an was currently using.


    "I can only try my best," Lan Chang''an cupped his hands.


    "You have six days," Zhou Qingxuan said, her beautiful hair swaying as she left with her old servant.


    "Are you confident?" Mu Xiuyun approached him, her voice gentle and her sleeve carrying a lingering fragrance.


    Meeting her expectant gaze, Lan Chang''an pondered: "With the aids of this talisman brush and frost-attribute papers, I have a twenty to thirty percent chance."


    ...


    The six dayspassedin the blink of an eye.


    Zhou Qingxuan arrived at the Mu Family Spirit Talisman Shop as scheduled and sat in the reception room behind the first floor.


    "Miss Zhou, these are the Frost Descent you need.I''m afraid myskill iscking, so I could only manage three. Please take back this talisman brush." Lan Chang''an looked slightly ashamed.


    He wouldn''t be so foolish astoactuallypaint four Frost Descent talismans just for a brush.


    Giving three should meet the other party''s psychological baseline.


    If four talismans weredrawn,for a talisman of the difficulty of Frost Descent, it would almost beparable to a first-rank superior-grade talisman master.


    "Never mind, keep the brush," Zhou Qingxuan''s expression didn''t reveal whether she was satisfied or disappointed.


    Finally, she nced at Lan Chang''an before leaving with the talismans.


    Lan Chang''an pocketed the talisman brush, his lips slightly pursed. Given her status, this oue was unsurprising.


    Mu Xiuyun smiled pleasantly. Althoughthe goal of four talismans wasn''t met, Zhou Qingxuan was satisfied.


    "Talisman Master Lan, congrattions on gaining a favor from the talented Zhou Family granddaughter. How enviable," Shopkeeper Xu from next door came over with a smiling face, though he seemed uncertain, probing tentatively.


    "Just fortuitous luck," Lan Chang''an humbly replied.This matter couldn''t be hiddenanyway.


    Gaining a favor from the peerless daughter of the Zhou Family was indeed envy-worthy. Moreover, in painting those few Frost Descent talismans, he also fleeced a tidy sum of materials.


    Lan Chang''an was in high spirits.


    ...


    Over the next few months, the flow of people in the market town steadily increased.


    The Spirit Talisman Shop,despite only being open for a year, surprisingly began turning a stable profit.Althoughthe profits weren''t massive.


    The shop premiseswere boughtat a low pricefrom the Mu Family, so there was no rental cost, but holding costs and the market''s management fees had to be considered.


    The market''s management feeswent towardsmaintaining the formations and paying the patrollingw enforcement cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an''s daysremainedquiteleisurely.


    On one hand, the rich wood spirit qi of Bamboo Leaf Mountain meant he only needed to cultivate for an hour and a half each day.


    On the other hand, the apprentice Mu Shan could paint simple first-rank talismans, while Mu Ershun could handle somebasictalismans.


    Lan Chang''an wouldn''t spend all his time in secluded cultivation upstairs.


    He often frequented the market town''s teahouses and taverns, drinking tea and alcohol.


    Such asions where cultivators from all over gathered often brought some news and information.


    Shopkeeper Xu from the Rainbows and Silk Pavilion would sometimes join Lan Chang''an for tea, casually chatting about matters near and far.


    This shopkeeper was well-acquainted with the identities and backgrounds of various figures in the market town.


    "Have you heard? Recently, a few wandering Qi-Refining cultivatorswere killedby rogue cultivators."


    "What is this Bamboo Leaf Market Town? It''s only been open a year, and there have already been a few vicious incidents of murder and robbery outside." Some wandering cultivatorsined indignantly in the tavern.


    "Rogue cultivators?" Lan Chang''an''s expression turned contemtive.


    Killing people and seizing treasures was not necessarily the work of dedicated rogue cultivators. In the market town, any upation could temporarily turn to banditry.


    With the market town gaining poprity, the emergence of rogue cultivators was quite normal.The patrolling cultivators couldatmostmaintain safety within the market townitselfand nearby areas.


    "Talisman Master Lan need not worry about rogue cultivators. Have you heard of any shopkeepers in our market townbeing robbed?" Shopkeeper Xu poured himself a cup ofwine,utterlynonchnt.


    "That''s true." Lan Chang''an smiled in agreement.


    Rogue cultivators mostly preyed on the weak and helpless. Most shopkeepers in the market town had backing powers. Either their cultivation wasn''t low, or they traveled in groups.


    Rogue cultivators mainly targeted scattered lone cultivators, not daringto easily provoke these prestigious businesses.


    "Lan Chang''an, my youngmasterrequests your presence." Just as the two of them were chatting idly, a servant boy came over and said in a low voice.


    "Your young master?"Lan Chang''an looked towards the servant boy, who wasat the thirdyer of the Qi-Refining stage.


    Shopkeeper Xu transmitted a reminder: "Talisman Master Lan, this is an errand boy under Young Master Huang."


    The Young Master Huang?


    Lan Chang''an recalled the year before when Huang Yu had visited the newly opened Mu Family Spirit Talisman Shop, treating him like a nobody withoutevenasking his name.


    He didn''t expect to receive a personal invitation from him today.


    Shopkeeper Xu''s expression turned grave as he transmitted: "The young master Huang is one of the administrators of this market town, second only to the presiding Foundation Establishment Ancestor. You''d better go make a trip there and not offend this person."

 Chapter 38: Temptations Abound

    Chapter 38: Temptations Abound


    Lan Chang''an nodded at the shopkeeper Xu and followed the errand boy out.


    Although the Bamboo Leaf Market Town was established by the Huang Family, various forces were intertwined, including cultivators from prominent families and even sects.


    Even the Young Master Huang dared not act recklessly on the surface.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an had a favor from Zhou Qingxuan, someone even Young Master Huang wanted to court.


    ...


    "Talisman Master Lan, what a pleasure to meet you."


    In the private room of the tavern, Young Master Huang, in a purple jade robe with an extraordinary bearing, looked at Lan Chang''an with a smiling phoenix-like gaze.


    A year ago, Huang Yu had seen Lan Chang''an once but regarded him as an ordinary talisman master and paid no attention.


    It was only after Lan Chang''an refined the Frost Descent Talisman and received a favor from Zhou Qingxuan that he truly entered Young Master Huang''s radar."Young Master Huang invited me here, I wonder..."


    "There''s no rush! First, taste this hundred-year-old Green Bamboo Spirit Wine."


    Young Master Huang carried himself with poise, taking out an obsidian wine jar and personally pouring wine for Lan Chang''an.


    Young Master Huang raised his cup first to toast.


    Lan Chang''an drank it without hesitation.


    He felt the crisp taste, with a trace of pure wood spirit qi fermenting in his stomach, nourishing his internal organs.


    "Good wine," Lan Chang''an praised.


    "Brother Lan is quite straightforward."


    A hint of surprise shed in Young Master Huang''s eyes as Lan Chang''an spoke fluently:


    "This hundred-year-old Green Bamboo Spirit Wine is a specialty of Bamboo Leaf Mountain. It needs to be brewed with the bamboo shoots of a first-rank superior-grade bamboo that ordinary people cannot obtain."


    Young Master Huang secretly admired Lan Chang''an''s frank and casual manner.


    In the ensuing conversation, Young Master Huang inquired about Lan Chang''an''s situation in the Mu Family and the market, mostly praising him.


    If not for the situation a year ago, Lan Chang''an would have thought this was a courteous and amiable young master.


    After three rounds of wine.


    Young Master Huang''s fairplexion was slightly flushed as he pushed a jade box in front of Lan Chang''an.


    "A small token of appreciation, please ept it, Brother Lan."


    "Young Master Huang, this is..." Lan Chang''an opened the jade box and was moved by what he saw.


    Inside were four translucent spirit stones, like rare and precious gems. These were mid-grade spirit stones. Each was worth at least a hundred low-grade spirit stones, often with more than ten percent fluctuation.


    Equal to over four hundred spirit stones. A considerable sum for those at thete Qi-Refining stage.


    Besides the mid-grade spirit stones, there was also a small porcin vial in the box, with three words on thebel: Bottleneck-Breaking Pill.


    "A bottleneck-breaking pill at thete Qi-Refining stage!"


    Lan Chang''an was secretly astonished. Young Master Huang''s offer was so generous!


    The other party''s intentions were clear at a nce. Such a price would be more than enough to poach a superior-grade talisman master.


    "I believe Brother Lan understands the principle of ''the noble bird chooses the right tree to perch on.'' Even for a talented person like you, would the Mu Family ever grant you a pill to break through thete Qi-Refining stage?" Young Master Huang spoke calmly with a faint smile.


    If Lan Chang''an were an ordinary cultivator, he woulddefinitelynot be able to resist such temptation.


    Young Master Huang was right.


    As an outsider in the Mu Family, it would be almost impossible for Lan Chang''an to obtain a pill to break through thete Qi-Refining stage.


    There were countless cultivators in line within the family.


    A few years ago, the Mu Family''s youngdy was only able to get the pill after making contributions to the herb garden and advancing to thete Qi-Refining stage.


    Lan Chang''an was currently at the fifthyer of Qi-Refining and would face a bottleneck after the sixthyer.


    However, what Young Master Huang could never have imagined was that...


    In this third life of recultivation, taking one step at a time with the Evergreen Technique Lan Chang''an''s foundation was iparably solid, andadvancing to thete Qi-Refining stage didn''t require a bottleneck-breaking pill.


    The only limitation on his cultivation speed was time itself.


    "I''m afraid I''ve disappointed Young Master Huang. After cultivating in the Mu Family for over a decade, I cannot betray them."


    Lan Chang''an took a deep breath and tore his gaze away from the jade box with difficulty.


    The smile on Young Master Huang''s face froze.


    He never expected that even such an offer could not sway Lan Chang''an.


    He wanted to poach Lan Chang''an mainly for two reasons:


    First, Lan Chang''an had decent talent in the talismanpath,and specialized in some rtively obscure but difficult talismans, enhancing the Mu Family Talisman Shop''spetitiveness.


    If Lan Chang''an''s talisman arts improved further and worked together with Mu Xiuyun, it wouldclearlybenefit the Mu Family in terms of financial strength and stockpiling superior-quality talismans.


    Losing Lan Chang''an would deal a blow to the Mu Family.


    Second, Lan Chang''an had a favor from the talented granddaughter of the Zhou Family. If utilized properly, it could help the Huang Family''s strategy.


    "Hahaha! I understand now!" Young Master Huang''s thoughts raced as he seemed to realize something.


    "You''re just infatuated with Mu Xiuyun, so you''re content to follow her, aren''t you?"


    "Rest assured! Once I have her in my grasp, I''ll reward you with her as a concubine in the future. Then your path of cultivation will be smooth, and you''ll have a beauty to cherish. How wonderful would that be?" By the end, Young Master Huangughed while caressing his palm.


    With a hint of male suggestiveness, he thought he had seen through Lan Chang''an''s mind.


    After all, when he first saw that graceful and jade-like beauty in the market, even he was stunned by her and slightly regretted not taking her as a wife back then.


    "Young Master Huang, please do not make such jokes." Lan Chang''an''s face was in disbelief as he got up to take his leave.


    Even after two lifetimes of cultivation, Lan Chang''an''s original intentions remained unchanged.


    Although he dared not im he had never killed innocents in his previous two lives, he had always adhered to the principle of not betraying those who did not betray him.


    He had taken refuge in the Mu Family for over a decade. In times of danger, he might run away, but he could not betray them.


    Of course, having principles did not mean he was merciful. Lan Chang''an held grudges and would always seek revenge. Once his strength was sufficient, he would strike decisively and mercilessly.


    "This brat..."


    Young Master Huang''s expression turned gloomy, he never expected Lan Chang''an to be so unmoved.


    Beforehand, he had investigated Lan Chang''an, who seemed like a loner who rarely ventured out of the market.


    Such a person would not be so easy to manipte.


    ...


    After leaving the tavern.


    Lan Chang''an returned to the Mu Family Talisman Shop.


    The first thing he did was go to the third floor and inform Mu Xiuyun about this matter, without mentioning the specific details.


    Lan Chang''an did this to prevent Young Master Huang from sowing discord between themter on.


    Even if he did not say anything, Mu Xiuyun would eventually find out about today''s events. Moreover, Young Master Huang might deliberately spread rumors to create suspicion between Lan Chang''an and the Mu Family.


    "Chang''an, thank you!"


    Mu Xiuyun smiled radiantly, her starry eyes flowing with an enchanting charm. Her gentle and melodious voice was soothing to the heart.


    "To poach you, Young Master Huang must have offered a substantial price. The Mu Family is fortunate to have recruited you back then."


    The fragrance of orchids wafted over, making one''s heart feel refreshed.


    Mu Xiuyun stepped closer, her eyes full of tenderness as she ced a slender hand on the back of his hand.


    Lan Chang''an felt the touch of her jade-like skin, her fair hand as cool as jade.


    In an azure gossamer dress, the graceful and elegant youngdy lowered her starry eyes, her fair face flushed like dawn clouds, bewitchingly beautiful.


    Even for him, with his cultivated mind and calmness, a slight ripple formed on the stillke of his heart.


    "It is only right. Without the Mu Family''s nurturing, I would not be who I am today."


    Lan Chang''an remained unruffled and gently withdrew his hand.


    He cupped his hands in salutation and left the room.


    Mu Xiuyun was momentarily dazed, her fair face flushed red, as she bit her lip, seemingly wanting to say something but hesitating.


    She gazed at Lan Chang''an''s retreatingback, her deep eyes filled with contemtion.


    ...


    "Whew!"


    "This ce in the market is truly different from the family. In just half a day, I faced such great temptations." Back in his room on the second floor, Lan Chang''an could not help but feel pensive.


    First was Young Master Huang''s lucrative enticement.


    Then the jade-like beauty Miss Mu just now, if Lan Chang''an had gone along with it, he could have fallen into a romantic entanglement with Mu Xiuyun. Of course, Mu Xiuyun''s beauty was quite different from Young Master Huang''s bribery.


    Ever since the herb garden incident years ago, he had vaguely sensed the youngdy''s trust and fondness for him.


    Aftering to the market, Mu Xiuyun spared no expense, allowing Lan Chang''an to practice superior-grade talismans.


    If Lan Chang''an married into the family, it would be a win-win situation for Mu Xiuyun.


    Marrying into the Mu Family was certainly a potential path. But in this lifetime, Lan Chang''an did not want too many attachments.


    With his long lifespan and steady cultivation, he had a decent chance of reaching the Nascent Soul Realm.


    ...


    No desires, no demands, unfettered.


    Lan Chang''an''s days in the market were carefree and untroubled.


    Half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an and Shopkeeper Xu were chatting idly in a tea house.


    "Brother Lan, at our age and level of talent, if we don''t make a bold move in this life, we may never reach the Foundation Establishment Realm." Shopkeeper Xu, who had a head of graying hair, let out a sigh full of emotion.


    "Oh? Does Shopkeeper Xu have any insight to share?" Lan Chang''an smiled slightly, adopting a listening posture.


    As the head of the Rainbows and Silk Pavilion, Shopkeeper Xu was a core member of a Qi-Refining family.


    A century ago, their family also had Foundation Establishment cultivators, but theyter declined.


    The family had remnant techniques from the Foundation Establishment Realm, and severalte Qi-Refining experts with formidable strength.


    "Brother Lan, let me tell you a secret." Shopkeeper Xu lowered his voice and spoke through a sound transmission technique.


    "A hundred miles outside of Bamboo Leaf Mountain, beneath some ruins, I discovered what seems to be a hidden treasure vault left behind by the Zheng Family."


    "A hidden treasure vault left by the Zheng Family?" Lan Chang''an was half skeptical.


    However, this area used to be the Zheng Family''s territory before they were devastated by an evil cultivator. It was not surprising that they had hidden treasure vaults, especially since they wereter almost wiped out by the Mu Family.


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes flickered slightly: "Why is Shopkeeper Xu telling me this secret?"


    "Truth be told, that hidden treasure vault has powerful restrictive spells, which will be difficult to break through in a short time and easy to leak news about. If I seek help from other powerful cultivators, I may not be able to secure myowninterests."


    "Meanwhile, Brother Lan has a low cultivation level but is trustworthy. With your talismans to aid in breaking the restrictive spells, you are the ideal partner for me."

 Chapter 39: Too Lazy to Go Out

    Chapter 39: Too Lazy to Go Out


    Shopkeeper Xu''s words were reasonable and sincere.


    Lan Chang''an did not find any obvious ws.


    "There''s no Foundation Establishment Pill in that hidden treasure vault, is there?"


    Lan Chang''an joked.


    "Uh...a Foundation Establishment Pill, most likely not," Shopkeeper Xu hesitated, his face twitching slightly.


    If the Zheng Family had a Foundation Establishment Pill, they would have used it long ago instead of waiting for the Mu Family to attack and kill them.


    Even if he was making up a story, he had to maintain basic logic.


    "Thank you for your kindness, Shopkeeper Xu, but I''m worried there might be traps or hidden restrictions in that treasure vault. It''s more reliable for me to draw talismans in the market." Lan Chang''an politely declined.


    Whether it was true or false, he had no interest in going out to explore treasures.As a talisman master, his ie was stable, and he was content to leech off the Mu Family''s resources. Hecked for nothing in terms of spirit stones and resources.


    It was like having an iron rice bowl plus a grey ie. What could be more stable than this?


    At present, the only thing that attracted him was the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    If Shopkeeper Xu dared to say the hidden treasure vault contained a Foundation Establishment Pill, he would block him immediately.


    "Since Brother Lan is unwilling to take the risk, I can only seek others. Please keep this matter confidential." Shopkeeper Xu showed some regret but did not insist.


    "Definitely,definitely." Lan Chang''anpromised,though the other party had not mentioned the specific location.


    ...


    In the following period, Shopkeeper Xu from the neighboring Rainbows and Silk Pavilion went missing.


    It seemed he had truly gone treasure hunting.


    When he reappeared ten dayster, he returned travel-worn with a flushed face and two additional storage pouches at his waist.


    "Brother Lan, join me at the Spring Night Pavilion tonight. If you take a fancy to any beautiful female cultivator there, it''s on me!" Dressed in a schr''s robe, Shopkeeper Xu extended the invitation to Lan Chang''an with great enthusiasm.


    The Spring Night Pavilion was a brothel in the market.


    Unlike ordinary ces, the service providers there were all female cultivators, each retaining a youthful appearance and refined demeanor.


    In the cultivation world, brothels were not merely about shallow physical pleasures.


    Through the union of yin and yang, it benefited the clients'' cultivation, as well as the female cultivators themselves.


    These establishments also had different varieties.


    The indulgent ones like the Spring Night Pavilion offered the real deal.


    The virtuous ones, like the Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion in the Five Peaks Market town, had immortal maidens who practiced the way of music and rhythm, which could cleanse the soul and help ovee mental obstacles and bottlenecks.


    The former was already quite expensive, while thetter was even more costly.


    Ordinary cultivators could not afford such ces.


    "Shopkeeper Xu is too kind, but I practice celibacy and have no interest in going to such ces." Lan Chang''an politely declined.


    "Are you even a man?" Shopkeeper Xu''s expression soured as he tried to provoke LanChang''an,but to no avail.


    It wasn''t that Lan Chang''an had no interest in women. As a normal man, he certainly had physical needs.


    It was just that he had a mild case of mysophobia and didn''t want to go to those kinds of ces.


    "Once I return to Core Formation Realm andter reach Nascent Soul, wouldn''t those peerless beauties be at my beck and call?" Lan Chang''an saw things quite clearly.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    With a haggard expression and unsteady steps, Shopkeeper Xu returned from the Spring Night Pavilion.


    "s, I''m getting too old for such ces. I can''t frequent them often anymore." Shopkeeper Xu sighed.


    "Brother Lan was right. It''s better to cultivate celibacy." After that, Shopkeeper Xu resumed his normal routine.


    Three dayster.


    He invited Lan Chang''an to drink at a tavern.


    This time, Lan Chang''an did not refuse.


    The tavern was called the Bamboo Wine Pavilion.


    The owner was a rosy-cheeked beauty with a voluptuous figure, entuated curves, and a captivating sway of her slender waist as she walked. People called her Madam Zheng.


    The female owner was a widow whosete husband used to be a winemaker from the Zheng Family.


    Her husband died during the Mu Family''s major counterattack against the Zheng Family.


    After surrendering to the Huang Family, Madam Zheng did not follow the Zheng faction''s relocation. Instead, she remained in Bamboo Leaf Mountain to run her winemaking business.


    "Well, well, if it isn''t Shopkeeper Xu and Master Lan. The usual orders?"


    Upon seeing the two of them, the female owner''s eyes lit up, and she came over to serve them.


    "Madam Zheng, give us the fifty-year-old Green Bamboo Spirit Wine." Shopkeeper Xu spared no expense.


    "Coming right up." The female owner stretched her waist and gave her instructions.


    "Madam Zheng, what brings us the honor of yourpersonalwee today?" Shopkeeper Xu asked with surprise.


    "Well, my Bamboo Wine Pavilion is organizing a Wine Tasting and Flower Appreciation event three days from now at the Peach Blossom Valley, thirty li outside the market, to reward our regr customers. Every cultivator in attendance will receive aplimentary jar of ten-year-old Green Bamboo Spirit Wine. Additionally, there will be matchmaking services..."


    The female owner trailed off with a coy smile, her flirtatious eyes twinkling.


    After saying that, she ced two invitation cards on the table and went to serve other customers.


    "Brother Lan, what do you think about this wine-tasting event at Peach Blossom Valley? There''s free spiritual wine to drink, and it''s not far from the market. It''ll be lively with a crowd." Shopkeeper Xu picked up the invitation card with interest.


    Lan Chang''an nced at the invitation and was almost tempted. But soon, he sensed something amiss.


    Previously, when Shopkeeper Xu invited him to go treasure hunting, he declined due to the risk involved.


    This time, for the wine tasting and flower appreciation event, Shopkeeper Xu emphasized "not far from the market" and "lively with a crowd," subconsciously giving a sense of safety.


    "Oh, I''m a bitzy. I''m content with life in the market and toozy to go out." Lan Chang''an let out a burp and spoke nonchntly.


    Toozy to go out?


    Shopkeeper Xu''s eyebrows twitched slightly.


    Lan Chang''an was unwilling to go on the dangerous treasure hunt, but he also wouldn''t attend the lively and safe wine-tastingevent?It seemed hereallydidn''t want to leave the market.


    ...


    "Wanting me to go out that badly?"


    Upon returning to the shop, Lan Chang''an became wary.


    The market was like a self-contained living circle.


    It could satisfy all his cultivation needs, from pills and talisman materials to body refinement sand and even various forms of entertainment.


    Since that was the case, Lan Chang''anhad no needto go out.


    Especially when being invited out by others.


    In his previous two lifetimes, he had witnessed a vicious trick: long-time friends luring cultivators out of the market and then ambushing and killing them for their treasures.


    "If there''sreallya need to leave the market, I''ll disguise myself and sneak out quietly. That would be much safer." Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    Having grown suspicious of Shopkeeper Xu, Lan Chang''an gradually distanced himself from him.


    He had mentioned this matter to Mu Xiuyun.


    If someone was targeting him, it was likely an enemy of the Mu Family.


    "You don''t need to worry. Each time I go out, I take a different route, and I have a flying boat at hand. Ordinary cultivators at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining can''t do anything to me." Mu Xiuyun smiled gracefully, exuding confidence.


    Indeed.


    At the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, she had quite a few middle and superior-grade talismans at her disposal. Coupled with the speed of her flying boat, even thete Zheng Yuanhua from back then would be no match for her.


    ...


    Time flowed by.


    In the following year, Lan Chang''an and the Mu Family Talisman Shop went about their business peacefully and business gradually prospered.


    He almost thought his previous suspicions were unfounded.


    With the soaring poprity of Bamboo Leaf Mountain, incidents of cultivators being killed and robbed outside the market were unavoidable and urred from time to time.


    In the past month, there was a merchant convoy that got attacked by rogue cultivators, fortunately, that merchant had means of preserving his life and narrowly avoided disaster.


    "In the cultivation world, as long as there are benefits, conflicts are inevitable." Lan Chang''an was not surprised by this.


    During the two years he had been in the market, Lan Chang''an umted a considerable number of superior-grade premium talismans.


    The most powerful in terms of offensive power was the Golden de Talisman.


    The premium Golden de Talismans rivaled the might of superior-grade magical treasures! They even surpassed the Qi-Refining stage.


    Additionally, Lan Chang''an had another powerful ace up his sleeve.


    With sixteen superior-grade premium talismans, he could construct a talisman array.


    This talisman array could quickly deploy a consumable temporary formation that could contend with Foundation Establishment cultivators for a short period.


    ...


    On this day, Lan Chang''an went to the courtyard downstairs to guide Mu Ershun in talisman drawing.


    Mu Ershun had poor spiritual roots and average talent in talisman arts. With another year of Lan Chang''an''s guidance, he would be able to attempt drawing first-rank talismans.


    Of course, this was thanks to Lan Chang''an''s tutge. Without it, ordinary novices would have to be apprentices for seven or eight years before attempting that.


    Hm?


    Lan Chang''an''s expression suddenly changed as he took out a sensory talisman from his storage pouch, which was now flickering with red light.


    "Not good--"


    This type of sensor talisman came in a pair of yin and yang talismans refined by Mu Xiuyun.


    Although it could not convey specific messages, if one of them was triggered, it would alert the other party that they were in serious trouble or danger.


    "The youngdy went out, and she''s in danger?" Lan Chang''an gripped the sensory talisman, his expression grave.


    The sensory talisman could only send a warning to the other party. Mu Xiuyun''s original intention in refining it was in case Lan Chang''an encountered serious trouble when she wasn''t at the shop.


    After all, Lan Chang''an''s cultivation level was rtively low. With the sensory talisman, she could hurry back as soon as possible.


    Lan Chang''an''s thoughts raced as he swiftly went upstairs to change his disguise.


    Aided by his Evergreen Technique''s aura adjustment, he transformed into a young man of an entirely different style.


    Blending into the crowd, he left the shop.


    Through his spiritual sense, he did not detect any followers.


    Just as he reached the market''s exit.


    The urgent whistling sound of something piercing through the air came from afar, and a flying boat came into view.


    "The youngdy''s flying boat." Lan Chang''an recognized it.


    On the shuttle was a bloodied elegant figure, swaying unsteadily.


    Shua!


    Mu Xiuyun''s magical power faltered, and her body fell like a severed kite, plummeting towards the market along with the flying boat.


    Lan Chang''an was swift in his reaction, pasting a Lightness Talisman on himself as he leaped into the air.


    He caught Mu Xiuyun with one arm.


    With his other hand, he grabbed the edge of the flying boat and infused it with magical power, allowing it tond steadily.


    Lan Chang''an immediately checked Mu Xiuyun''s condition.


    What he saw chilled his heart.


    Mu Xiuyun was deathly pale, with a white bone arrow emitting ck smoke pierced through her chest.


    "Chang''an, I..."


    Mu Xiuyun held on long enough to get onest look at Lan Chang''an. Her bloodstained lips struggled to form a faint smile before her eyes dulled and closed weakly.


    Lan Chang''an gripped her wrist, his face changing drastically.


    Her breathing had stopped.


    Only the faintest of heartbeats remained, about to cease at any moment.

 Chapter 40: The Secret of Evergreen

    Chapter 40: The Secret of Evergreen


    The poisoned bone arrow pierced through Mu Xiuyun''s chest, with the arrowhead emerging from her back.


    Although it did not hit her heart directly, it almost grazed it, and the dispersed damage and poison had already seeped into her heart veins.


    "With such severe injury, there is no way to recover!"


    Lan Chang''an''s face was solemn as he sighed inwardly.


    Such a fatal wound could onlybe savedbya third-rank healing pill or a Core Formation cultivator''spersonalintervention.


    As a Foundation Establishment market town, Bamboo Leaf Mountain could not meet either of these conditions.


    Lan Chang''an could only input his Evergreen power to neutralize the poison and protect Mu Xiuyun''s heart veins.


    He hoped to allow Mu Xiuyun a brief period of lucidity before herdeath,to leave a final message. At the very least, she should reveal the true culprit. So that Lan Chang''an could be on guard in the future.


    However, as soon as he transferred Mu Xiuyun to the third-floor bedroom of the shop, her heartbeat was already inaudible.Her heart had stopped!


    Although Lan Chang''anEvergreenpower had neutralized the poison, the damage from the poisoned arrow had already eroded and harmed her heart veins.


    "Dead?"


    Lan Chang''an stared nkly at the graceful and delicate youngdy on the bed, whose breathing and heartbeat were gone, with her life force irreversibly fading.


    To mortals or low-level cultivators, this was already a corpse. At best, a beautiful corpse.


    It wouldn''t be long before her soul dissipated and her body started to decay. But Lan Chang''an,ing from Earth and having undergone two lifetimes of cultivation, knew that a stopped heart did not mean there was no chance of saving her.


    Perform CPR?


    The power of the poisoned arrow had already eroded and damaged the heart, hewas afraid that CPR would cause secondary damage.


    "I can only try the Evergreen Technique''s healing secret spell, even if it is justto temporarily sustain her life."


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged by the bed, treating a dead horse as ifit werealive.


    The Ancient Trees Evergreen Techniquebeingawood-based cultivation methodnaturallyhad healing capabilities andincludeda healing secret spell.


    Since it would deplete his vitality, Lan Chang''an had never used it before.


    Buzz!


    The mana in Lan Chang''an''s body surged, and ayer of ancient, verdant green light swirled around his palm.


    It was as if an ancient tree was extending new green shoots, absorbing and exhaling the breath of life.


    Atthis moment, he couldn''t care about the difference between men and women. Lan Chang''an untied Mu Xiuyun''s dress, cing his hand, enveloped in green light, over her chest wound.


    The dark green at the wound site faded at a visible speed.


    The wound gradually scabbed over, and the nearby skin was restored to an icy, jade-like purity.


    Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but be surprised, theEvergreen Technique''s healing secret spell was unexpectedly good. Just like its poison-dissolution ability, it far surpassed ordinary wood-based cultivation methods.


    "Ugh..."


    MuXiuyun on the bed groaned, a fineyer of sweatappearingon her forehead, and a faint red flush appeared on her pale face.


    "Regaining consciousness?" Lan Chang''an''s heart leaped with joy, keeping his hand on Mu Xiuyun''s chest, afraid she would stop breathing the next moment.


    "I...I didn''t die?"


    Mu Xiuyun opened her starry eyes and looked at Lan Chang''an, her pale face squeezing out a faint smile.


    "Changan, itreallyis you..."


    Thest time shewas poisonedin the medicine garden, she felt herself falling into endless darkness, but a strand of pale green warmth had pulled her out of the abyss. Today, that feeling came once more.


    Even though Lan Chang''anwas disguised, the familiar masculine presence was unmistakable.


    "Steady your breath, speak softly." Lan Chang''an removed his disguise, raised his hand to stop her, and said sternly:


    "Leave your final words quickly. Who is the murderer? I need to give the Mu Family an exnation."


    Mu Xiuyun paused, the red flush on her snowy face showing a faint, tragic bleakness.


    "The murderer is a rogue cultivator."


    "Threete-stage Qi-Refining cultivators, wearing masks.The leader,at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, was extraordinary, possessing a superior-grade magical bow andan extremelyfastflyingeagle spirit bird..."


    As she described, her starry eyes revealed a sense of reluctance, instinctively tightening her grip on Lan Chang''an''s warm hand, not letting it leave her chest.


    After revealing the murderer, Mu Xiuyun felt a weight lifted off her shoulders.


    She quietly gazed at Lan Chang''an, her delicate and graceful face showing a serene smile:


    "Chang''an, dyingin front ofyou is also a kind of luck."


    "Do you know why I announcedthat Iwould not marry outside back then? Youclearlyhad a slim chance in the path of immortality, whywere you unwilling to join the Mu Family? If you were willing, we...could have had a child in the future and let him take your surname Lan."


    Mu Xiuyun''s heartfelt confession before death stunned Lan Chang''an.


    But, youngdy, you are thinking too far ahead!


    Phew!


    At this moment, LanChang''anpower was exhausted, and his vitalitygreatlydepleted, forcing him to stop the healing technique.


    Mu Xiuyun clutched his hand tightly, keeping it on her chest.


    "Before I die, can you hug me once?" A blush appeared on her face.


    "Mm."


    A dying person''sst wish was hard for Lan Chang''an to refuse. Besides, the youngdy had nurtured andtaken care ofhim in many ways.


    Lan Chang''an embraced the graceful and elegant youngdy, who buried her head in his chest, experiencing the warmth before death.


    Hm?


    Lan Chang''an''s hand was still on her chest, feeling the gradually steady heartbeat, realizing something was amiss.


    Earlier, in the rushhehad been touching an inappropriatespot,but did not pay close attention.


    "Me, why am I still alive?" A few breathster, Mu Xiuyun, slightly confused, touched the bone arrow in her chest.


    "Strange! Howe you are not dead?" Lan Chang''an said subconsciously, confused and uncertain.


    He released his hand to check Mu Xiuyun''s condition. Her pulse was steady, and the fatal wound on her heart had healed.


    The bonearrowwas still lodgedin her chest, but for a cultivator, it wouldn''t be lethal in a short time.


    "How is it?" Mu Xiuyun looked at Lan Chang''an with a glimmer of hope in her eyes.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression was unusual: "You havee back to life."


    "Ireallysurvived?" Mu Xiuyun''s face lit up like the morning glow, tears streaming down her cheeks.


    "You don''t seem happy that I''m alive?"


    Mu Xiuyun''s starry eyes shifted to Lan Chang''an, whowas lostin thought.


    "...No."


    Lan Chang''an''s original intention was to sustain Mu Xiuyun''s life, allowing her to leave a final message and reveal the murderer.


    But ns couldn''t keep up with changes.


    The healing secret spell of the Evergreen Technique had exceeded his expectations, actually bringing Mu Xiuyun back from death.


    After using this healing secret, Lan Chang''an realizedthat ithad consumed two months of his lifespan.


    The Evergreen Technique prolonged longevity by drawing on the energy of time.


    The healing secret spell that brought back life would consume lifespan?


    Through this ident, Lan Chang''an touched upon the core secret of the Evergreen Technique.


    Hiss!


    Mu Xiuyun was so happy that she moved her wound, causing cold sweat to streamdownfrom the pain.


    "Don''t move, I''llhelp you remove the arrow."


    Lan Chang''an had Mu Xiuyun lie on her side on the bed,firstusing a cleansing spell to remove the poison from the arrowhead.


    One hand on her chest, using Evergreen mana to protect her heart veins.


    The other hand slowly pulled out the bone arrow.


    During the process ofpulling out the arrow, Mu Xiuyunwas drenchedin fragrant sweat from the pain. But she smiled silently, looking at Lan Chang''an''s serious expression.


    Afterthe arrow was removed, Lan Chang''an applied ointment and infused Evergreen mana to elerate the healing of Mu Xiuyun''s wound.


    "Chang''an, your wood-based technique is extraordinary, itshealing effects are truly amazing!"


    Mu Xiuyun was silentfor a moment, then couldn''t help but speak.


    Noticing Lan Chang''an''s slightly furrowed expression.


    She seemed to understand something andsmiled with pursed lips: "Chang''an, every cultivator has their secrets. After the incident in the herb garden, I felt you were different from ordinary cultivators."


    "If you are worried, I, Xiuyun, swear by my heart demon that I will never reveal today''s events to a third party." Mu Xiuyun raised her hand, solemnly swearing.


    "The youngdy is not an outsider; it''s notthat serious."


    Lan Chang''an''s brows rxed,showing a smile, satisfied with Mu Xiuyun''s intelligence and thoughtfulness.


    The healing effect of the technique was not a shocking secret.To ordinary cultivators,it was not as attractive as Bottleneck-breaking pills or Foundation Establishment pills.


    Even the longevity extension of the Evergreen Technique, some high-level wood-based techniques also possessed, could extend life by more than ten percent.


    Lan Chang''an''s greatest secret was the NineSeal Stele; the Evergreen Technique was secondary, and the healing secret spell was just the tip of the iceberg.


    "I, the ''final words'' I just said..."


    Mu Xiuyun, with her injuries stabilized, thought of her previous near-death confession, her face burning with embarrassment, both annoyed and awkward.


    "Whatst words? Howe I don''t know." Lan Chang''an said calmly.


    As he finished speaking, Mu Xiuyun took hold of his shoulder, her flowing hair dancing, and her delicate face erged in his vision.


    Lan Chang''an was startled, feeling a soft, fragrant sensation between his lips.


    The fragrance of osmanthus and orchid surrounded them as they kissed.


    Momentster.


    With a clear mind, Lan Chang''an released the still-weak youngdy.


    "Rest well and heal."


    Lan Chang''an had Mu Xiuyun lie down on the bed.


    "Chang''an, will you run away?" Mu Xiuyun, feeling uneasy, clutched his hand.


    Lan Chang''an was surprised at Mu Xiuyun''s intuition and decided to be honest:


    "After reaching the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, I will leave the Mu Family."


    After reaching the seventhyer, he nned to seek opportunities for Foundation Establishment, as the Mu Family would no longer be of much help.


    Currently, the timing was not ripe.


    How could Mu Xiuyun not understand the implication, herstarry eyes dimmed.


    Releasing her hand, Lan Chang''an left.


    She murmuredsoftly, "You are truly candid!"


    "Knowing you will leave, do you not want to be entangled with me? Not even two decades with the entire Mu Family could make you hold any lingering attachment?"


    ...


    Mu Xiuyun''s near-death attack outside the market caused a stir afterward.


    Thiswas the second incident of merchantsbeing attackedby rogue cultivators.


    A few dayster.


    Mu Xiuyun, together withothermajormerchants,pressured the Maple Leaf Huang Family to strengthen market security and eliminate the rampant rogue cultivators.


    Concerned about their safety, themajormerchants stood united.


    The Maple Leaf Huang Family, feeling the pressure,had to convene a meeting to discuss countermeasures.

 Chapter 41: Evil-Faced Flying Eagle

    Chapter 41: Evil-Faced Flying Eagle


    That night.


    The shopkeepers of various major stores in the market went to the Maple Leaf Manor at the top of Bamboo Leaf Mountain to attend the conference convened by the Huang Family.


    An hourter.


    Mu Xiuyun returned to the shop and immediately found Lan Chang''an to exin the situation.


    "The person who attacked me is called Evil-Faced Flying Eagle. He wreaked havoc in other markets years ago. This person was hunted down by a Foundation Establishment cultivator, andafter being injured he went into hiding for several years. Now, he has resurfaced around Bamboo Leaf Mountain."


    The first piece of news Mu Xiuyun shared was precisely what Lan Chang''an was concerned about.


    "Evil-Faced Flying Eagle?"


    Lan Chang''an memorized this name. To escape from a Foundation Establishment cultivator, he was no ordinaryninthyerQi-Refining Level Nine. No wonder he could push Mu Xiuyun to the brink of death.


    Then, Mu Xiuyun mentioned the second matter:"For the two attacked merchants, the Huang Family willpensate by waiving the management fees for their shops for the next ten years."


    Ten years of management fees was no small amount.


    The Maple Leaf Huang Family more or less expressed themselves. After all, the attack did not happen within the market; it was a certain distance away.


    Lan Chang''an mused, "Merchants getpensation, but those wandering cultivators who died tragically, it''s all over for them."


    This is thew of the jungle in the world of cultivation.


    Most merchants in the market have powerful backgrounds, some even the Huang Family wouldn''t dare offend lightly.


    "Furthermore, the Huang Family ns to strengthen the market''s formation andw enforcement cultivators, actively eradicating rogue cultivators. Due to increased expenses, from next year, they will raise the merchants'' management fees by thirty percent." Mu Xiuyun''s clear voice carried a hint of sarcasm.


    Raising management fees?


    Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but admire that the Huang Family wasreallygood at taking advantage of opportunities.


    In the first two years of the market''s opening, management fees were kept low to attract traffic.


    Now that the market''s traffic was increasing and most shops were beginning to profit, the Huang Family was using the threat to market security posed by rogue cultivators to raise the management fees.


    The situation had indeed changed.


    Previously, the market was newly opened, andthey had to beg people toe to do business.


    Now, as the market''s poprity increased year by year, there were plenty of people scrambling to get in.


    The Huang Family publicly stated: If anyone was dissatisfied with the increased management fees, they could sell their shops back to the Huang Family at current market prices withpensation.


    This showed the Huang Family''s confidence in the market''s prospects.


    ...


    Returning to his room, Lan Chang''an fell into deep thought.


    He recalled a year ago when Shopkeeper Xu and Madam Zheng in the market had tried every means to get him out.


    Lan Chang''an and Mu Xiuyun joined forces, making the business of the talisman shop increasingly better. The quality and variety of their talismans were quitepetitive.


    Besides the Feiyue Lake aquatic products and the purple copper mining area, the Mu Family had this talisman shop an additional money-making tree, and their development was getting smoother and smoother.


    As long as one of them was eliminated, this momentum could be slightly curbed.


    Lan Chang''an, impervious to pressure, simply wouldn''t leave the market, giving them no opportunity.


    Mu Xiuyun was different; she asionally traveled between her family and the market.


    With higher cultivation and possessing a flying boat magical weapon, she wasn''t easy to target, but at least there was a chance.


    ...


    At the top of Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    In a hall within the Maple Leaf Mansion.


    "Yu''er, you went too far this time."


    An elderly man with prominent cheekbones, sitting cross-legged on a mat at the head of the hall, looked displeased:


    "The merchants doing business in the market are not easy to deal with. Attacking them was a wrong move. For a little girl, was it necessary for you to personally intervene, risking the market''s reputation?"


    "Uncle Ling is right."


    Huang Yu respectfully replied, "I did not personally participate in this matter, merely provided information to the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle. That guy developed an interest in Mu Family¡¯s eldest daughter, a wealthy and beautiful female cultivator, and acted on his own."


    Mentioning this, a hint of gloom shed in Huang Yu''s eyes.


    He originally nned to carefully plot, capture Mu Xiuyun, and leverage the rogue cultivator''s name to control the Mu Family and Lan Chang''an.


    However, the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle was overconfident and underestimated the quality of the talismans Mu Xiuyun held, suffering a minor loss at the beginning when his Flying Eagle was injured by a talisman.


    Under his anger, he viciously destroyed even the flower.


    If he had killed Mu Xiuyun, it would have been fine, but she survived and incited the merchants to pressure the Huang Family.


    The elderly man snorted coldly and said indifferently, "You should be more cautious. The prosperity of this market is crucial to our Huang Family''s ns for the next hundred years."


    ...


    Since the attack on Mu Xiuyun, the Huang Family increased patrols andw enforcement around the market, even handling several cases of murder and robbery.


    The security environment around Bamboo Leaf Mountain improved.


    The market''s traffic steadily increased.


    Business in the shops became more prosperous, and the resistance to the management fee increase lessened.


    Three yearster.


    Lan Chang''an advanced to the sixthyer of Qi-Refining, taking his cultivation to the next level.


    As expected, it took a total of six years.


    The spiritual energy of the nts in the market only improved his cultivation efficiency but it couldn''t change the passage of time.


    Lan Chang''an had plenty of free time every day, cultivating, drawing talismans, refining his body, practicing alchemy, feeding his spiritual pet...


    In addition to personal interests, drinking tea, ying chess, strolling through the market stalls, and trying to pick up treasures.


    Life was both fulfilling and leisurely.


    In the four or five years at Bamboo Leaf Mountain, Lan Chang''an never left the market.


    Someone even gave him the nickname Turtle Talisman Master, making him a topic of gossip among some cultivators in the market.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t mind; he believed that in thefuture,when he reached the Core Formation or Nascent Soul Realm, those who mocked him would likely be nothing but a pile of dust.


    ...


    In the past two or three years, aside from cultivation and hobbies, Lan Chang''an''s life has seen some changes.


    One day, Lan Chang''an, full of energy, got up from bed and dressed.


    Near the bed, a pile of female cultivator''s clothingy scattered.


    A green gauze dress, a blue bellyband, white silk stockings, exquisite embroidered shoes...


    A fragrant scent filled the bed.


    A beautiful body with smooth jade-like skin, curves, and a long, snowy leg was exposed.


    Oh, this was the youngdy''s boudoir.


    Mu Xiuyun opened her starry eyes, showing a hint of fatigue. Seeing the energetic Lan Chang''an, her gaze held a bit of resentment.


    There is a saying: Only the ox can be exhausted, but the fields cannot be ruined.


    However, for Lan Chang''an, who cultivated the Evergreen Technique, this saying did not apply.


    "Lan Lang, I have to get dressed, no peeking!"


    The sound of the beauty dressing came from behind.


    Lan Chang''an stood by the window, his thoughts drifting, feeling that these fulfilling two or three years had passed quickly.


    Three years ago.


    After that near-death healing, the youngdy gradually put aside her pride, asionally flirting and initiating discussions about talismans.


    One time while drawing talismans together, she revealed her true feelings: her life belonged to Lan Chang''an, and even if he left in the future, she would ept it willingly.


    With words spoken to this extent, If Lan Chang''an had still pushed back, he wouldn''t be a normal man, he would not even be as good as a eunuch.


    After years of close contact, a lonely man and woman, with mutual affection, naturally ended up sleeping together.


    Every corner of the youngdy''s boudoir bore traces of their passion.


    Of course, no matter how deep the love.


    Lan Chang''an remained calm, using secret techniques from the Secrets of Locking the Dragon to preserve his essence, ensuring no offspring would be left behind.


    ...


    Morning.


    On the first floor of the shop, Mu Ershun and Mu Shan were arranging the goods on the counter.


    Now, both apprentices could make some first-rank talismans, although their sess rate was low, just breaking even.


    Mu Xiuyun inspected the shop, checking for any issues.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t manage the shop''s affairs and was preparing to visit the market''s stall area.


    He had heard in his previous life that some cultivators found hidden treasures or sealed magical items at unsuspecting stalls.


    Thus, over the years in the market, he often visited the stall area, hoping to find something valuable.


    With plenty of time, he enjoyed trying his luck.


    Over the years, he indeed found a treasure, acquiring a piece of a magical item resembling a handkerchief.


    It looked like a piece of cowhide, impervious to water and fire, with a flexible texture.


    This magical treasure,itat least corresponds to the Core Formation Realm.


    Even though it was a fragment, Lan Chang''an couldn''t use it with his current cultivation, so he used it as a protective mirror, lining it in his outer robe.


    After wandering around the stall area with no luck, he went to a teahouse to rx, overhearing many cultivators'' discussions.


    "Bamboo Leaf Mountain is holding an auction this time, and I heard they will auction a Foundation Establishment Pill?"


    "A Foundation Establishment Pill? Really?"


    "Not only the Foundation EstablishmentPill,but also extremelyhigh qualityspiritual tools, the longevity pills..."


    Early in the morning, the teahouse was more crowded than usual.


    Lan Chang''an sipped his tea, unfazed by the auction and the Foundation Establishment Pill discussions.


    The market merchants had known about the auction for a month in advance.


    The Huang Family had invited the Mu Family''s talisman shop, hoping they would provide a batch of superior-quality talismans for the auction.


    The Maple Leaf Huang Family decided to hold arge-scale auction at Bamboo Leaf Mountain in three months.


    There were indeed rumors of a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Additionally, the Beast Taming Zhou Family would sell a batch of high-quality spiritual beasts at that time.


    Instantly, nearby cultivation families, and even more distant wandering cultivators and sect cultivators, got the wind of it.


    "Foundation Establishment Pill ah..." Lan Chang''an sipped his tea, sighing inwardly.


    After several rounds of preparations, theBamboo Leaf Mountain market would be the center of attention. This was also the Huang Family''s goal, to make the Bamboo Leaf Mountain market truly prosperous!


    As the auction approached.


    The market''s traffic increased daily.


    Recently, Lan Chang''an even received letters from Zhao Siyao and Lin Yi.


    Learning about the grand auction at Bamboo Leaf Mountain, both friends nned to attend.

 Chapter 42: My Stomach is Very Good

    Chapter 42: My Stomach is Very Good


    Two monthster, with less than ten days until the auction.


    The flow of people in Bamboo Leaf Mountain had surged, reaching an unprecedented level of fervor.


    The business at Mu Family''s Spirit Talisman Shop was booming, and the two apprentices, Mu Shan, and Mu Ershun, were overwhelmed with work.


    As a result, the Mu Family sent two more family members to assist.


    On this day, Li Ergou also came to Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    ¡°Dad, Second Mother.¡±


    Mu Ershun saw father with a big belly, he excitedly waved his hand, rushing out of the shop.


    Having been in the market town for many years, Mu Ershun had only gone back once halfway through and hadn''t seen his father for a long time.


    ¡°Such a big man, can''t you be a bit more steady!¡±Li Ergou scolded with a stern face. Beside him was a tall, beautiful woman in a pce dress, his second wife Mu Caiwei, who had inferior spiritual roots and was at the secondyer of Qi Refinement.


    ¡°Brother Changqing, Ershun hasn''t seen his father for a long time.¡± Mu Caiwei smiled sweetly, holding her husband''s arm.


    Mu Ershun scratched his head, chuckling foolishly, not daring to look directly at his beautiful second mother, who wasn''t much older than himself.


    He respectfully weed his father and stepmother into the reception room at the back of the first floor.


    ¡°Big Brother.¡±


    ¡°Changqing, Sister-inw.¡±


    Soon, Lan Chang''an came downstairs to entertain Li Ergou.


    ¡°Ah, Big Brother, you¡¯re still the same, cultivating the wood-based Eternal Youth Technique, you have hardly aged over the years.¡± Li Ergou now looked middle-aged, with a fat face and a body twice the size of Mu Caiwei.


    ¡°The Eternal Youth Technique is slow to cultivate ah, and one must have a good mindset, maintain health, and abstain from desires to dy aging.¡± Lan Chang''an said without blushing or skipping a beat.


    Li Ergou hadn¡¯t nned toe to the market town, but he heard that Zhao Siyao and Lin Yi were arriving soon, so he came over. He also wanted to see his son and broaden his horizons.


    The two talked about things within the family and then about cultivation.


    ¡°s, I¡¯ve been stuck at the sixthyer ofQi-Refiningstage for five or six years now and still haven''t broken through.¡±


    Li Ergou sighed.


    Lan Chang''an could see that Li Ergou had been stuck at the peak of the sixthyer of the Qi-Refining stage for a long time.


    This was a bottleneck. Most Qi-Refining practitioners couldn''t ovee it in their lifetime.


    To break through, one had to either grind for years or use breakthrough pills to increase the probability.


    Neither method guaranteed sess.


    A life-or-death breakthrough was also unrealistic for Li Ergou.


    ¡°You had a smooth journey in the past few years; taking some time to settle and slowly polish a bit isn''t a bad thing. Wait for a Bottleneck-Breaking Pill in the future.¡± Lan Chang''an smiled.


    ¡°Bottleneck-Breaking Pill? Too difficult! The breakthrough pill, I don''t know how many cultivators in the family are lining up for it. Some have even earned merits on the front lines; how can Ipare¡­¡± Li Ergou was self-aware.


    Breakthrough pills were scarce and expensive,rarelysold on the market.


    Li Ergou had no special skills, at best working part-time as a spiritual nter to support his family,cking the financial means to vie for a breakthrough pill.


    Two dayster.


    Zhao Siyao and Lin Yi arrived at Bamboo Leaf Mountain and found Mu¡¯s Spirit Talisman Shop.


    In the reception room at the back of the shop.


    The four immortal seedlings from Hengshui Prefecture gathered again after twenty years.


    Compared to theirst reunion at Jin Yun Valley, the four had not changed much.


    Li Ergou looked wealthier, his small eyes now more shrewd.


    Lin Yi, dressed in a loose robe, appeared calm and steady, his mustache longer.


    Zhao Siyao, in a flowing fairy dress, was as beautiful as a painting, cold as a fairy, without a hint of mortal smoke.


    ¡°Fellow Daoists! If my calctions are correct, it has been exactly twenty years since we first met.¡± Lin Yi stroked his beard and smiled, his eyes shining with satisfaction.


    ¡°Twenty years¡­¡±


    The four smiled at each other, sighing at how quickly time passed.


    Atthis moment, they didn¡¯t know. Spanning twenty years, this would be theirst reunion, frozen in this scene.


    ¡°Your children are now as old as we were back then.¡± Zhao Siyao smiled, looking at Mu Ershun and Lin Yi''s sixth son, Lin Lu.


    Lin Lu, fifteen years old, wore a luxurious brocade robe, a gold crown, and a jade belt. He had handsome features, red lips, and white teeth.


    Mu Ershun, already eighteen, had thick eyebrows and big eyes, a burly build, and a simple, honest face.


    Regardless of talent, or qualifications, Mu Ershun was dwarfed by Lin Lu.


    ¡°Little Lu, get to know Ershun well. You should be like brothers and support each other.¡± Lin Yi looked at his outstanding son and instructed.


    ¡°Yes, Father.¡± Lin Lu barely managed a smile, reluctantlymunicating with Mu Ershun.


    Clearly,Lin Lu looked down on Mu Ershun.


    Lin Lu had a spiritual root sensitivity of eighteen, close to middle-grade spiritual roots, and with the significant resources invested from the Hidden Immortal Pavilion and Guang¡¯an Marquis Mansion, he passed the assessment of Jin Yun Valleyst year.


    He was now an outer disciple of Jin Yun Valley.


    In contrast, Mu Ershun, a cultivation family disciple with a spiritual root sensitivity of twelve, was just an apprentice.


    They were from entirely different levels.


    In the room, Lin Lu only showed respect to Zhao Siyao. He didn¡¯t care about Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou, seeing them as failed members of their sects, living as dependents and bingsons-inws.


    Unlike his father, who had risen from adversity, creating the Hidden Immortal Pavilion and gaining some fame among wandering cultivators.


    ¡°Your son Little Lu has a solid foundation.¡± Lan Chang''anmented. It was normal for teenagers, as sect disciples, to be a little arrogant.


    ¡°Haha! I¡¯ve invested a lot in Little Lu over the years, not wanting him to repeat my mistakes.¡± Lin Yi couldn''t help but feel proud of his son, who was far better than him.


    He was now struggling with his cultivation, and his future achievements would be no match for Lan Chang''an and Li Ergu. However, his son was strong.


    During their chat, Lin Yi subtly revealed that the new Guang¡¯an Marquis was his younger brother, whom he had secretly supported to the throne.


    It was the same as saying that Lin Yi controlled both the Hidden Immortal Pavilion and the Guang¡¯an Marquis Mansion.


    The four chatted intensely, finishing a pot of tea.


    ¡°I''ll brew another pot.¡± Lan Chang''an prepared to stand up.


    ¡°Let me do it.¡±


    A voice as clear as spring water came.


    Mu Xiuyun appeared, elegant and graceful, rolling up her sleeves to brew tea for the group.


    When Zhao Siyao and Lin Yi arrived, Mu Xiuyun was busy managing the shop and had only greeted them briefly.


    They knew this gentle and quiet woman was the eldest daughter of the Mu Family.


    Before long.


    Mu Xiuyun brought the teapot, her bright, warm eyes meeting Zhao Siyao¡¯s.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s eyes were clear and bright, nodding with a smile.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, this isn¡¯t appropriate!¡±


    Having Mu Xiuyunservetea, Li Ergou and Lin Yi were ttered.


    ¡°Chang''an, you guys continue chatting. I have some matters to attend to.¡± Mu Xiuyun¡¯s gentle eyes nced at Lan Chang''an before leaving gracefully.


    ¡°Brother Lan, you and Miss¡­¡±


    Li Ergou sensed something was off, widening his eyes.


    From the way Lan Chang''an and Mu Xiuyun interacted, they didn¡¯t seem like ordinary friends.


    ¡°Brother Lan, you¡¯re quite something! You didn¡¯t make a move for years, but when you did, you won the eldest daughter of the Mu Family.¡± Lin Yi stroked his beard and smiled, inwardly shocked, doubtful, and envious.


    This was the eldest daughter of the Mu Family from Feiyue Lake.


    Zhao Siyao was surprised, looking at Lan Chang''an with a strange gaze.


    Could it be that he was the type to live off a woman?


    ¡°Brother Lan, is this true?¡± Li Ergou was stunned, the eldest daughter of the Mu Family being the dream of many young men in the family.


    ¡°I don¡¯t spread rumors or gossip.¡± Lan Chang''an directly denied it.


    Mu Xiuyun might have mistaken Zhao Siyao for a ¡®love rival¡¯ and deliberately came to show their closeness.


    Usually, when outsiders are around, Mu Xiuyun isactuallyquite reserved and subtle.


    Seeing the disbelief on their faces, he smiled helplessly, ¡°Actually, my stomach is very good.¡±


    ¡­


    That night, Lan Chang''an treated them to a spiritual food banquet in the market town.


    Lin Yi and Zhao Siyao, preparing for the auction, stayed in the market town¡¯s inn.


    With three days until the auction, all the inns in Bamboo Leaf Mountain were full and had collectively raised their prices.


    ¡°Are you participating in this auction?¡± Back at the shop¡¯s second floor, Mu Xiuyun entered Lan Chang''an¡¯s room, full of gentle charm.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Lan Chang''an answered without hesitation.


    Among the leaked auction items, there was something he had to buy.


    ¡°Our Mu Family received an invitation and can enjoy VIP treatment. Would you like to join us then?¡± Mu Xiuyun¡¯s eyes sparkled with anticipation.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Lan Chang''an thought it would be safer to attend with the Mu Family, as offending someone at the auction could mean having the Mu Family¡¯s protection.


    Mu Xiuyun was delighted, her brows containing love.


    Her delicate, beautiful face blushed slightly as she softly said, ¡°Lan Lang, I¡¯m not going upstairs tonight¡­¡±


    Whoosh!


    A fragrance filled the room, extinguishing the lights.


    ¡­


    Three dayster, onthe day of the auction.


    Bamboo Leaf Mountain was bustling, with lights asionally shing in the sky, apanied by the rise and fall of magical weapons and flying beasts.


    Sometimes, a powerful figure in the Foundation Establishment Realm would appear, their immense spiritual pressure causing nearby cultivators to retreat.


    At Mu Family''s Spirit Talisman Shop.


    Several high-ranking members of the Mu Family came to inspect, nodding frequently.


    Mu Renlong of the Foundation Establishment Realm and family head Mu Maode came to Bamboo Leaf Mountain for the auction and took the opportunity to visit the talisman shop.


    ¡°Father, Lan Chang''an is attending the auction with us.¡± Mu Xiuyun, in a in dress, stood gracefully like jade beside Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°No problem.¡±


    Mu Maode, dressed in a blue robe with an elegant demeanor and graying temples, stroked his beard and smiled, his gaze sweeping over the two.


    Suddenly, Mu Maode¡¯s expression changed, his sharp gaze falling on Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Maode, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Mu Renlong, in a ck robe, looked over and noticed Mu Maode¡¯s unpleasant expression.


    Mu Renlong nced at Mu Xiuyun, whose snowy skin was flushed and whose figure was captivating.


    It suddenly dawned on him.


    The current Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Mu Family smiled, his hawk-like eyes showing a hint of approval towards Lan Chang''an.

 Chapter 43: Old and Young Compete

    Chapter 43: Old and Young Compete


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, how many years have you been with the Mu Family?¡±


    Mu Renlong''s presence was formidable, his voice resonant and authoritative.


    ¡°Twenty years,¡± Lan Chang''an answered.


    ¡°It''s been that long?¡± Mu Renlong couldn''t help but sigh, ¡°Over the years, you''ve made significant contributions to the Mu Family, and you''re considered one of our own now.¡±


    ¡°If you fancy any girl in the n, no matter who she is, I''llmake the decisionfor you!¡± Mu Renlong''s encouraging gaze carried a hint of dominance.


    Without waiting for Lan Chang''an''s response, he got up and headed to the auction.


    Lan Chang''an understood the implication of Mu Renlong''s words: he supported Lan Chang''an marrying Mu Xiuyun. Even if Mu Maode disagreed, he would have toply.


    After all, the Foundation Establishment Realm Mu Renlong was the undisputed authority in the Mu Family, even more domineering than the previous ancestor.


    Mu Maode''s face showed a trace of discontent, feeling disappointed.His exceptional daughter, with her stunning beauty and superior-grade talisman skills, had been taken by someone who seemed like a harmless pig.


    But on second thought.


    If it was a marriage into their family, Lan Chang''an, being an outstanding talisman master with a distinguished appearance and steady conduct, was quite suitable. This way, both talented individuals would remain with the Mu Family, firmly tied to them.


    Previously, he was blinded by his fatherly emotions. In contrast, Mu Renlong, with his broader perspective, was more rational, directly supporting Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    The Bamboo Leaf Mountain auction was held near the mountaintop in a newly constructed hall.


    The auction was ofhighstandard, requiring participants to verify possession of two hundred spirit stones or items of equivalent value. This instantly ruled out some of the poorer wandering cultivators who were just there for the excitement.


    The Mu Family, as invited VIPs, naturally didn''t need verification and used a special passage.


    ¡°Brother Renlong! Your presence brings great honor to Bamboo Leaf Mountain." An elderly Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Huang Family greeted Mu Renlong warmly.


    ¡°Foundation Establishment ancestor of the Huang Family, Huang Changling." Seeing the elderly man with prominent cheekbones, Lan Chang''an recognized him. After all, he had been in the market town for years and had seen or at least heard of the important figures of the Huang Family.


    The Huang Family had three Foundation Establishment members; Huang Changling''s cultivation wasn''t the highest, but his seniority was high, and had been guarding the Bamboo Leaf Market Town all year round.


    Hosting this significant auction, the Huang Family certainly brought more than one Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The auction hall was semi-circr and very spacious. The floor was covered with mats, each maintaining a distance of more than two zhang(1zhang=3.33meter).


    The Mu Family¡¯s VIP stand resembled a floating terrace, amodating ten people.


    Besides the high-ranking cultivators, the Mu Family also brought two young talents to broaden their horizons.


    Lan Chang''an sat in the VIP stand, enjoying the spirit tea and spirit fruits served by a female attendant.


    He looked down at the auction hall, observing the details.


    Lan Chang''an noticed Li Ergou, Zhao Siyao, and Lin Yi sitting on adjacent mats.


    Li Ergou grinned, also seeing Lan Chang''an on the VIP stand.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an hasreallyclung to a powerful thigh!¡±


    Seeing Lan Chang''an sitting with Mu Xiuyun and the Mu Family''s high-ranking members, Lin Yi sighed inwardly.


    Lan Chang''an might marry the Mu Family¡¯s eldest daughter in the future, even if he was to marry into her family, it was enviable.


    ¡°Worthy of being a big brother.¡± Li Ergou admired Lan Chang''an. Recalling when they, the immortal seedlings, had narrowly escaped death and first saw that gentle and elegant girl, she was stunning.


    Marrying the Mu Family¡¯s daughter, they didn''t even dare think about it.


    ...


    Half an hourter, the mats in the auction hall were almost all upied.


    Buzz!


    A gentle beam of light descended from the sky, illuminating the auction stage as if it were daytime.


    "Wee to all the Daoists who havee to Bamboo Leaf Mountain to support the event. I, Guangcheng Lin, am honored to have been recognized as the host to preside over this auction."


    An elderly man in a slightly plump feather robe, smiling widely, cupped his hands towards the top and the right and left side of the stage.


    ¡°First, let me exin the auction rules: no spiritual sense threats, no malicious bidding, no private collusion... Any behavior disrupting the auction order will result in expulsion from the auction hall if the crimes are light or abolishment of their cultivation if the crimes are heavy.¡±


    ¡°Without further ado, the first auction item is the Clear Qi Pill.¡±


    ¡°As everyone knows, the Clear Qi Pill is a breakthrough elixir for advancing to the mid-stage of Qi-Refining. We have five pills today, each starting at one hundred low-grade spirit stones, with a minimum bid increment of five spirit stones.¡± As soon as he finished speaking, a beautiful attendant in a green dress brought in a tray.


    ¡°Clear Qi Pill!¡± ¡°The first item is a breakthrough elixir.¡±


    Cultivators from all directions were excited.


    Although the Clear Qi Pill was only a breakthrough elixir for the mid-stage of Qi-Refining, which sect or cultivator didn''t have juniors? Such breakthrough elixirs were always in short supply.


    ¡°I bid one hundred and five!¡±


    ¡°One hundred and twenty!¡±


    Bids came one after another from all directions in the hall.


    In the end, the first pill sold for nearly two hundred spirit stones, equivalent to the value of a mid-grade magical weapon.


    Subsequently, the remaining four Clear Qi Pills were all fiercely contested and sold out.


    ¡°Next is the second auction item, the mid-grade magical weapon Green Steel Mother and Son Swords...¡±


    The elderly man in the feather robe raised his hand with a smile.


    ¡°Mid-grade magical weapon! Aplete set of magic weapons!¡± Qi-Refining mid-tote stage cultivators¡¯ eyes lit up.


    Lan Chang''an was tempted. The Green Steel Mother and Son Swords were more powerful than the flying shuttle artifact he obtained from Master Ge Yi,parable to the ck. But ultimately, he didn''t participate.


    Having an additional excellent mid-grade magical artifact wouldn''t significantly enhance his strength.


    In this auction, he had his eyes on certain items and wanted to conserve his spirit stones.


    Next, one auction item after another was presented, sometimes causing a wave of excitement in the hall.


    ¡°The sixteenth item in this auction is a first-rank Life Extension Pill, of which there are three, each extending lifespan by five years. I remind everyone that for such Life Extension Pills, only the first one of the same grade will extend life; subsequent ones will not.¡±


    ¡°A first-rank Life Extension Pill?¡± Young cultivators showed little interest, but older cultivators'' eyes gleamed. Several drowsy old men suddenly perked up.


    ¡°A first-rank Life Extension Pill, the holy medicine for prolonging life! Starting at two hundred low-grade spirit stones, with each bid increase no less than ten spirit stones.¡± The elderly man in the feather robe announced excitedly.


    ¡°Two hundred and fifty spirit stones!¡± An impatient white-haired old man in the ninthyer of Qi-Refining immediately bid, increasing by fifty spirit stones at once. However, this bid did not deter otherpetitors.


    ¡°Two hundred and sixty!¡±


    ¡°Two hundred and eighty!¡±


    ¡°Three hundred!¡±


    In no time, the price of the Life Extension Pill soared fifty percent above the starting bid.


    ¡°Three hundred and ten!¡±


    ¡°Four hundred!¡±


    A young, incongruous voice joined in, causing a momentary silence among the bidders.


    An increase of nearly one hundred!


    ¡°Brother Lan?¡±


    Hearing the familiar voice, Li Ergou was stunned, looking towards the VIP stand above.


    The Mu Family''s high-ranking members, including Mu Renlong, Mu Maode, and Mu Xiuyun, were all surprised, looking at Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, did you practice some secret technique that drastically reduced your lifespan?¡± Mu Maode coldly stared at Lan Chang''an, then nced sympathetically at his daughter.


    ¡°Maode, Lan Chang''an is in his prime and has plenty of vitality, definitely not going to die anytime soon.¡± Mu Renlong chuckled, also curious.


    ¡°This junior''ste introduction to cultivation led to ack of potential. Purchasing the Life Extension Pill is to make up for the lost years¡± Lan Chang''an was prepared, answering calmly.


    ¡°Eh... Is that the reason?¡± The Mu Family members looked at each other, unable to refute this reason.


    However, normal cultivators, unless nearing the end of their lifespan, wouldn''t pay such a high price for purchasing the Life Extension Pill. With those spirit stones, it was better to buy precious elixirs to improve cultivation as much as possible.


    Moreover, whether a cultivator could advance to higher realms was often determined in their youth. Losing or gaining five years wouldn''t change much.


    Lan Chang''an bidding for the Life Extension Pill was because the Evergreen Technique required drawing on the Qi of the passing years and using healing secret spells would consume lifespan.


    Life Extension Pills, with the word longevity, were closely rted to the Evergreen Technique. He wanted to test what effect the Life Extension Pill would have on him.


    ¡°Four hundred and ten!¡±


    A cold humph came from a certain agete stageQi-Refiner, adding ten spirit stones.


    No Foundation Establishment cultivators participated because most had already used the first-rank Life Extension Pill, rendering repeated use ineffective.


    ¡°Four hundred and fifty!¡± Lan Chang''an''s bid was aggressive, indicating he was determined to win.


    This scene made the elderly cultivators nce at him, their fierce gazes locking onto him.


    A young man with no worries about lifespanpeting with them, who had one foot in the grave, for Life Extension Pills?


    The group was instantly outraged!


    However, Lan Chang''an was too young, just a rash youth, likely not the main bidder, so it wasn''t necessary to get angry with him.


    This person was sitting in the Mu Family¡¯s VIP stand?


    ¡°Mu Maode! What''s going on with your Mu Family? Sending a young man topete with us centenarians for longevity?¡±


    ¡°Mu Renlong! Your father and I were close friends. How can you disregard your Foundation Establishment status and be so ruthless, trying to force us old folks to die early?¡±


    These white-haired elderly cultivators gritted their teeth, directing their anger at the Mu Family''s high-ranking members.

 Chapter 44: Earth-grade Beast Egg

    Chapter 44: Earth-grade Beast Egg


    In the VIP tform.


    Facing the hostility and anger of the crowd of elderly cultivators, Mu Renlong and Mu Maode felt immense pressure.


    Even Mu Renlong, in the Foundation Establishment Realm, was a bit uneasy. Those aged cultivators had considerable seniority and connections, some even barely qualified as his elders, with outstanding descendants.


    The Mu Family''s high-ranking members felt unjustly used, bearing the brunt of Lan Chang''an''s actions and attracting enmity.


    Those elderly cultivators didn''t believe a young man like Lan Chang''an would purchase the Life Extension Pill regardless of any cost.


    With such financial resources, wouldn''t buying breakthrough pills be more appealing? It must have been the directive of the Mu Family''s high-ranking members!


    "Four hundred and sixty." a white-haired old man gritted his teeth.


    "Five hundred!" Lan Chang''an remainedcalm,as if the bid had nothing to do with him.


    Mu Xiuyun''s eyes turned as she recalled how readily Lan Chang''an agreed to join the auction that evening, and she couldn''t help but smile.Lan Chang''an hadevidentlyanticipated the pressure frompeting for a Life Extension Pill against a group of old folks.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had the backing of a cultivation force.


    If it were a background-less loose cultivator, then they would have to weigh their options.


    "Mu Renlong, you''re ruthless!"


    Faced with Lan Chang''an''s strong bid, the elderly cultivators finally gave uppeting.


    After all, there were two more Life Extension Pills.


    There was no need to fight a reckless youth supported by a Foundation Establishment family.


    They even suspected that Lan Chang''an might be a nt by the Life Extension Pill seller.


    "Five hundred spirit stones, is there a higher bid? This life-extending holy medicine is rare and precious..." The elderly auctioneer in a feather robe scanned the room, his tone passionate.


    "Five hundred spirit stones going once, five hundred spirit stones going twice...Sold!"


    "The first Life Extension Pill is sold to the guest at VIP tform number seven." The elderly auctioneer nced at the Mu Family¡¯s VIP stand, his gaze lingering on Lan Chang''an for a moment.


    The first Life Extension Pill was surprisingly won by a youngster, which astonished the various forces in the hall.


    "That kid seems to be the Talisman Master in the market town, the Turtle Talisman Master?"


    "Turtle Talisman Master? I heard he''s quite cautious, no wonder he''speting with the elderly for a Life Extension Pill."


    "Such behavior is truly disgraceful!"


    At the auction, some cultivators recognized Lan Chang''an and either despised or envied him.


    After all, Lan Chang''an''s ability to shell out such arge amount of spirit stones for a Life Extension Pill indicated financial prowess surpassing most in the Qi-Refining stage.


    "The second Life Extension Pill, starting at two hundred low-grade spirit stones, don''t miss this opportunity..." On the auction stage, the second Life Extension Pill began its bidding.


    Lan Chang''an felt slightly tempted; one Life Extension Pill might not be enough to test his hypothesis about the Evergreen Technique. However, it wasn''t appropriate topete for a second one.


    "Lan Chang''an, the effects of Life Extension Pills don''t stack. Leave a way out for those elderly cultivators." Mu Renlong''s eyelid twitched slightly as he spoke.


    If Lan Chang''an continued to bid, the high-ranking members of the Mu Family would struggle to withstand the pressure.


    Although Lan Chang''an''s actions had attracted enmitytowardsthe Mu Family, it was only natural for a family to cover its younger generation from the storm. Thus, they didn''t me Lan Chang''an.


    The family''s cohesion and unitywaswhy they had such solidarity. Lan Chang''an wasn''t the only junior from the Mu Family attending the auction.


    ...


    After Lan Chang''an, the second and third Life Extension Pills were each sold for over five hundred and fifty spirit stones.


    It seemed Lan Chang''an''s aggressive bid for the first pill had gotten him a bargain.In fact,some elderly cultivators present, if they pooled their life savings, could afford higher bids.


    But was it worth it?


    It was like on Earth in his previous life, many elderly people in critical condition could barely manage a few more years by exhausting their savings and selling their homes and cars.


    In the cultivation world, those at the limit of their lifespan, with declining physical and magical abilities, couldn''t break through to higher realms even if they extended their life by ten years.


    Given such a high cost, it was better to cultivate a few more Qi-Refining disciples.


    "Senior, here is the Life Extension Pill you won."


    An enforcement cultivator escorted a graceful female attendant to deliver the first-rank Life Extension Pill to the Mu Family''s VIP stand.


    Lan Chang''an epted the Life Extension Pill, verified it, and paid five hundred spirit stones. The auction house charged amission, but it was borne by the seller.


    Lan Chang''an put the Life Extension Pill away, not consuming it immediately as the asion wasn''t suitable for testing the Evergreen Technique.


    The auction proceeded smoothly.


    Subsequently, there were items like secret techniques, cultivation manuals, premium talismans, top-grade magical weapons, and more. It was dazzling and kept the excitement high.


    During this time, the Mu Family''s high-ranking members sessfully bid on a superior-grade magical artifact.


    Mu Xiuyun personally also bid on a beauty pill, blushing slightly under her father''s watchful gaze.


    The Beauty Pill could significantly dy the aging of one''s appearance, although it was less effective than a second-rank Youth Retaining Pill.


    Lan Chang''an could understand.


    Mu Xiuyun''s actual age was simr to his, and due to her high cultivation and beauty techniques, she looked like she was in her twenties, with jade-like skin, glowing with radiance.


    She was in the most charming and graceful phase of a woman''s life.


    ...


    The auctionsted a whole day, with an intermission.


    "Dear guests, the next part is the spirit beast auction by the Beast Taming Zhou Family, featuring ten high-bloodline spirit beasts and younglings."


    As the auction entered the second half, the elderly auctioneer weed a pure and charming girl in a yellow dress to the stage.


    "This is Zhou Qingxuan, a genius spirit beast master of the Zhou Family. She will co-host the auction with me." The elderly auctioneerintroduced.


    The girl in the yellow dress, with her exquisite looks and bright, clear eyes, was none other than Zhou Qingxuan, whom Lan Chang''an had once dealt with.


    "Qingxuan is only here to assist with the auction, providing information about the spirit beasts." Zhou Qingxuan gracefully curtsied, dignifiedanposed, quite different from her usual yful and lively demeanor.


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly; indeed, she was the Zhou Family''s genius granddaughter. In the three or four years since they''dst met, Zhou Qingxuan, who had once been at the same cultivation level as him, had now advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    This time, the Zhou Family¡¯s auction had her on stage, indicating her importance.


    "The first spirit beast from the Beast Taming Zhou Family is the ck-blood Spirit Horse, with a middle-grade bloodline. This horse has araremutated bloodline, its enduranceandspeed far surpassing ordinary spirit horses, able to leap over three to five zhang cliffs and adapt to various terrains..." As the elderly auctioneer introduced, Zhou Qingxuan opened the spirit beast bag, releasing a particrly strong spirit horse with ck and blood-speckled fur.


    The ck-blood horse neighed violently uponappearing,but calmed immediately under Zhou Qingxuan''s pointing finger.


    Zhou Qingxuan was not just assisting with the auction but also had the role of calming the spirit beasts.


    The difference between spirit beasts and ordinary beasts or monstersy in their domestication or breeding. They were more intelligent but more fierce at times.


    "The ck-blood Spirit Horse has an excellent bloodline, suitable for cultivation family''s spirit horse breeding. The starting bid is eighty spirit stones..."


    "White Spirit Fox, possessing a top quality bloodline, high spiritual intelligence, good at spiritual charm, with snow-white fur, suitable for female cultivators to keep..." With Zhou Qingxuan''s cooperation, one spirit beast after another went up for auction. Besides spirit beasts, there were younglings and even spirit beast eggs.


    Some cultivators preferred to raise spirit beast younglings from an early age for loyalty reasons. Of course, this was only for spirit beasts withhigher gradebloodlines and fast growth rates.


    "The next auction item is a bit special: an unhatched egg of a Profound Water Turtle with an earth-grade bloodline!" The elderly auctioneer narrated, building the atmosphere.


    "Everyone should have heard that there is a third-rank Profound Water Turtle in the neighboring cultivation world, whose strength isparable to that of a Core Formation Immortal, and it has lived for over a thousand years, guarding the sect for all its lifespan." At this point, Zhou Qingxuan brought out a dark grey egg and ced it on a tray held by an attendant.


    "Profound Water Turtle, earth-grade bloodline!"


    Many cultivators were amazed and eximed.


    A spirit beast with an earth-grade bloodline was no small matter. It was equivalent to a cultivator withearthspiritual roots.Earthspiritual root aptitude was rare even in cultivation sects. Everyearthspiritual root cultivator was nurtured as a Core Formation seed.


    "A Profound Water Turtle, huh..."


    Some well-informed cultivators smiled disdainfully.


    "Indeed, the Profound Water Turtle has an earth-grade bloodline, but it grows extremely slowly, taking over two hundred years to advance to the second rank and five or six hundred years to reach the third rank." Mu Maodeughed.


    Five or six hundred years was the lifespan of a typical Core Formation cultivator.


    Ordinary Foundation Establishment families often didn''tst five or six hundred years.


    Even the Beast Taming Zhou Family, with their Fake-Dan Immortal ancestor having a lifespan of over three hundred years, wouldn''t see the day the Profound Water Turtle grew to the third rank and that doesn''t even ount for the resources needed for the Profound Water Turtle''s growth.


    "The Profound Water Turtle has one advantage: its longevity is thrice that of cultivators of the same realm. This point suits me well." Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    "Miss Zhou, the life force of this Profound Water Turtle egg seems somewhat weak?" A Foundation Establishment cultivator scanned the grey egg on the tray with his spiritual sense and frowned.


    "To be honest, this turtle egg might have been stored too long or affected by external forces, so its life force is weaker than a healthy beast egg." Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s voice was clear and straightforward.


    Life force is weak?


    Some interested cultivators couldn''t help but lose enthusiasm.


    If the life force inside the eggshell was weak, the hatched spirit beast might be sickly and frail, its strength inferior to others of the same rank.


    If it weren''t for this, the Beast Taming Zhou family wouldn''t be selling this earth-grade spirit beast egg so readily.


    "The Profound Water Turtle egg starts at two hundred and forty spirit stones. This turtle has a long lifespan and is docile and loyal, suitable for cultivating as a family guardian beast..."

 Chapter 45: Auction Finale

    Chapter 45: Auction Finale


    "Two hundred and fifty."


    "Two hundred and sixty."


    Compared to the earlier spirit beasts, the auction for the Profound Water Turtle egg was rtively uneventful, with only a few factions cing bids.


    "Three hundred and twenty... three hundred and forty... three hundred and fifty..." The bidding frequency became slower and slower.


    "Three hundred and eighty!" After waiting for a long time, Lan Chang''an finally made his move.


    He was somewhat interested in the Profound Water Turtle egg, but he wasn''t determined to get it. If the price went too high, he would let it go.


    "Three hundred and eighty spirit stones, any higher bids? This is an earth-grade spirit beast!" The elder in the feathered robe looked around.


    The result was a silent audience; no one elsepeted. Cultivators are not foolish, an earth-grade spirit beast egg with slow growth and weak life, even if it hatched out, its prospects were still unpredictable.


    "Three hundred and eighty spirit stones, sold! The Profound Water Turtle egg goes to the friend at VIP tform number seven."Lan Chang''an was a bit surprised; he hadn''t expected to win the Profound Water Turtle egg so easily.


    As a talisman master, receiving two sries plus side earnings made it normal for him to be wealthy. But he couldn''t be too extravagant; spending several hundred spirit stones was near his limit, even with a cultivation family background.


    "It seems this item is fated to be mine." Lan Chang''an smiled knowingly.


    Mu Xiuyun couldn''t help but ponder. She knew Lan Chang''an''s cultivation technique included a miraculous healing secret spell.


    If used on the Profound Water Turtle egg, perhaps it could nurture a normally healthy Profound Water Turtle, yielding a small profit.


    The higher-ups in the Mu Family didn''t understand why Lan Chang''an bought the Profound Water Turtle egg, but they didn''t stop him.


    "Even if Lan Chang''an takes a first-rank Life Extension Pill, if he doesn''t achieve foundation establishment, he won''t live to see the Profound Water Turtle grow. By then, this turtle might be the Mu Family''s guardian beast." Mu Maode silently calcted.


    "Talisman Master Lan, pleasee to collect the Profound Water Turtle egg. I have some details to exin."


    A crisp, sweet voice of a young girl came from the stage, it was Zhou Qingxuan speaking.


    Seeing the final buyer was Lan Chang''an, Zhou Qingxuan looked slightly surprised.


    The Profound Water Turtle is suitable for cultivation forces to purchase and cultivate over several generations. To an individual, it was rather useless.


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an went to the auction stage.


    During this process, he sensed several spiritual senses sweeping over him, all only lingering briefly.


    Releasing spiritual sense naturally indicated a foundation establishment cultivator.


    Hmm?


    Lan Chang''an keenly detected a familiar spiritual sense, eerie and unpredictable, making one''s body feel cold.


    "Liang Shaotian? He dared toe to Bamboo Leaf Mountain to join thefun?Truly audacious!" Lan Chang''an was secretly astonished.


    That divine sense shed by, making it difficult for him to determine the location.


    "Talisman Master Lan, here is the Profound Water Turtle egg and the breeding information."


    Zhou Qingxuan handed the egg and a jade slip to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an handed over the spirit stones in return.


    After the transaction.


    Zhou Qingxuan blinked, her eyes showing a hint of cunning as she probed, "Talisman Master Lan, do you have any breeding insights for purchasing the Profound Water Turtle egg?" Zhou Qingxuan knew the situation of this Profound Water Turtle egg well.


    Although it was sold cheaply, the signs of life within the egg were weak; sessful hatching would require great effort and expense.


    The Zhou Family''s spirit beast tamers had rigorously evaluated it before deciding to sell the egg.


    Zhou Qingxuan spected:eitherLan Chang''an was unaware of the situation and impulsively bought it, or he had some hidden knowledge and methods.


    "Haha! Miss Zhou, you''re overthinking. The cultivators in the market call me Turtle Talisman Master, don''t they? So I might as well buy a turtle spirit pet to solidify the title." Lan Chang''anughed with self-deprecation.


    Zhou Qingxuan chuckled, herughter as clear as wind chimes, her eyes shining, her chest slightly heaving.


    The auction continued, and she did not ask further.


    ...


    Returning to the VIP seat, Lan Chang''an took out the jade slip given by Zhou Qingxuan, pressed it to his forehead, and injected his spiritual sense to examine it.


    His face turned grim upon reading.


    The Mu Family higher-ups noticed this, guessing that Lan Chang''an had suffered a loss by purchasing the egg.


    "Lan Chang''an, learn from your mistakes. In the cultivation world, there aren''t many easy bargains." Mu Renlong advised sincerely.


    Lan Chang''an was still young. Though alert and steady, greed was something even hundreds of years old monsters couldn''t fully suppress.


    Lan Chang''an responded with a light "hmm," remaining silent.


    The jade slip from Zhou Qingxuan detailed the Profound Water Turtle egg''s information and conditions, including the costs needed for hatching.


    The expenses far exceeded the auction price!


    Bymon sense, Lan Chang''an had indeed been tricked by the Zhou Family.


    ...


    Half an hourter, the Zhou Family''s spirit beast auction ended.


    Zhou Qingxuan left the auction stage and returned to a central VIP tform.


    "Qingxuan, you did well in this spiritual beast auction."


    In the VIP tform, a handsome middle-aged schr smiled.


    "Uncle Jingxuan, it was just an auction, much simpler than taming fierce beasts." Facing the foundation establishment middle-aged schr, Zhou Qingxuan spoke yfully and sat down casually.


    The middle-aged schr was named Zhou Jingxuan, a foundation establishment cultivator of the Zhou Family.


    ...


    The auction entered its second half, with increasinglyhigher gradeitems appearing.


    The bidding amounts reached several hundred to thousands.


    The number of foundation establishment bids gradually increased.


    "Top-grade magic weapon Cold Moon de, extremely powerful. In the hands of a foundation establishment cultivator, it can release up to seven cold moon des at once. At the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, touching it means instant death. Ordinary foundation establishment cultivators can hardly withstand it. Under moonlight, its power increases by thirty percent!"


    "Starting bid one thousand spirit stones, each increment no less than fifty."


    "One thousand one hundred!"


    "One thousand two hundred!"


    "One thousand five hundred!"


    ...


    The Cold Moon de, a powerful top-grade magic weapon, attracted bids solely from foundation establishment cultivators. Even the Huang Family joined the bidding.


    If cultivators at thete stage of Qi-Refining could barely control a superior-grade magic weapon, top-grade ones were entirely the realm of foundation establishment.


    "One thousand eight hundred spirit stones!" Finally, this top-grade magic weapon was won by a foundation establishment cultivator from the Zhou Family, Zhou Jingxuan.


    After the top-grade magic weapon, the auction''s climax slightly dropped.


    Qi-Refiningte-stage Bottleneck-Breaking Pills and foundation establishment cultivation enhancing Blood Spirit Pill appeared, thetter also won by the Zhou Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The auction neared its end. Representatives from various forces perked up, focusing on the finale.


    "Distinguished guests, the penultimate item of this auction, the grand finale ¨C Foundation Establishment Pill!" The elder in the feathered robe''s voice grew enthusiastic.


    The atmosphere in the hall turned tense.


    Two foundation establishment cultivators personally escorted the jade bottle containing the Foundation Establishment Pill on a tray.


    One of them, an ancient old man, was Huang Changling, the old ancestor of the Huang n that Lan Chang''an had seen entering the auction. The other was a middle-aged man in heavy armor, exuding a murderous aura.


    "The effects of the Foundation Establishment Pill need no boration. It can increase the sess rate of foundation establishment and enhance the cultivator''s dantian and meridians, greatly improving safety." The elder''s voice echoed in the auction hall.


    "This Foundation Establishment Pill has slight ws but is generally fine, and after verification by the Pill Alliance, it''s estimated to increase sess rate by fifteen percent."


    "Fifteen percent?"


    The forces in the hall pondered, still very interested.


    A normal Foundation Establishment Pill could increase the sess rate by twenty percent. Fifteen percent wasn''t too far off.


    "This Foundation Establishment Pill, starting bid two thousand spirit stones, each increment no less than one hundred." The elder announced loudly.


    "Two thousand two hundred!"


    "Two thousand three!"


    "Twothousand five!"


    ...


    The price kept rising, slowing down only after reaching three thousand spirit stones.


    The Mu Family higher-ups sighed, giving up thepetition.


    Ten years ago, Mu Renlong secretly established his foundation, costing the family greatly.


    In recent years, the Mu Family had recovered, but buying another Foundation Establishment Pill at all costs was imprudent.


    Having a Foundation Establishment Pill didn''t guarantee sess. Moreover, this pill had slight ws.


    Even if bought, they would face the risk of being robbed, potentially bringing disaster to the family.


    "Four thousand spirit stones! Any higher bids?"


    Finally, the Foundation Establishment Pill was sold at a huge price.


    Some forces could offer more. But it wasn''t worth it.


    Spending thousands of spirit stones for a fifteen percent increase in sess rate might be in vain andcarriedrisks.


    "Yunhe Ning Family?"


    "It wasactuallythis remote family that won the Foundation Establishment Pill."


    Under the gaze of various forces, a red-faced elder led a man and a woman to the stage.


    The red-faced elder was a foundation establishment cultivator, his aura declining, clearly near his lifespan''s end.


    Behind him, the man and woman were at the ninth and eighthyers of Qi-Refining, respectively.


    The man was a middle-aged man in beast-hide robes; the woman was a graceful beauty in a green dress.


    "Elder Ning, congrattions on winning the Foundation Establishment Pill." The ancestor of the Huang Family, Huang Changling, smiled and cupped his hands.


    After paying the spirit stones.


    The red-faced elder pleaded, "Fellow Daoist Changling, may my grandson breakthrough on the second-grade spiritual vein of Bamboo Leaf Mountain? We are willing to pay the spirit stones."


    Breaking through to foundation establishment required a second-grade spiritual vein. Without enough spiritual pressure, they could easily get stuck at the mana liquefaction stage.


    The Ning Family had a second-rank spiritual vein but worried about dys and idents on the way, thus making this request.


    "No!"


    Huang Changling''s face changed, decisively refusing.


    "It''s not that Ick empathy. Breaking through tofoundationestablishment drawsrge amounts of spiritual energy, and Bamboo Leaf Mountain''s second-grade spiritual vein is crucial for the market''s second-rank defensive formation stability. In these unusual times, I hope Fellow Daoist Ning understands."


    ...

 Chapter 46: Black Dipper Demon Flame

    Chapter 46: ck Dipper Demon me


    Upon hearing this, the Ning Family elder sighed deeply.


    The present Foundation Establishment cultivators were not surprised.


    Although the second-grade spiritual vein of Bamboo Leaf Mountain was not small in scale, it had to simultaneously support the second-rank defensive formation, as well as the shops, inns, and cultivators'' abodes.


    Only the small area at the top of the mountain enjoyed the treatment of a second-grade spiritual vein.


    Even with the assistance of a Spirit Gathering Array, the second-grade spiritual vein bore a significant daily burden.


    If someone attempted to break through to Foundation Establishment, absorbing a massive amount of spiritual energy, it would indeed affect the second-rank defensive array.


    Moreover, this auction had attracted about twenty Foundation Establishment cultivators, some well-known, others hiding their true identities.


    If the Ning Family attempted to establish their foundation here and caused a weakness in the array, the Huang Family might not be able to suppress it once something went haywire.


    A massacre triggered by a Foundation Establishment Pill had happened before in the history of the cultivation world¡¯s marketces."Many families can afford to buy a Foundation Establishment Pill by selling everything they own. But to keep the pill, they also have to expend their family¡¯s resources and pay a high price." Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly. In his previous life, he had worked tirelessly for his family and deeply understood the hardships involved.


    "Fellow Daoist Ning, please wait." Huang Changling, after exchanging a few words with the middle-aged Foundation Establishment cultivator in heavy armor beside him, suddenly called out to the Ning Family trio.


    "If you are worried about safety on the road, this escort from the Heavenly Guard Tower can provide protection for you, but it will require some payment." Huang Changling introduced.


    As the organizer of the auction, the Huang Family also did not want the buyer of the Foundation Establishment Pill to meet with an ident on the way back, as it would damage the marketce¡¯s reputation.


    "Is it the Heavenly Guard Tower of Huanglong Immortal City?" The Ning Family''s red-faced elder looked at the armored escort and couldn''t help but be overjoyed.


    The Heavenly Guard Tower was a well-known escort organization in Huanglong Immortal City with a good reputation.


    The organization specialized in providing protection for cultivators and had strong backing. For example, the Huang Family had hired escorts from the Heavenly Guard Tower for safety at this auction.


    Now that the auction was over, Huang Changling introduced them to the Ning Family.


    "Fellow Daoist Ning, if you pay 1,500 spirit stones, I will lead eightte-stage Qi Refining guards to escort you back to your family." Being able to take on another job on the way, the escort was quite happy and his price was fair.


    "Good, good! I will first pay 300 spirit stones, and the rest will be given upon arrival at my family." The Ning Family elder and the middle-aged man and the woman in the green dress behind him all showed signs of joy.


    With the cooperation of two Foundation Establishment cultivators and the reputation of the Heavenly Guard Tower, the journey back to their family would be much safer.


    After reaching an agreement, the Ning Family trio, under the escort of the Heavenly Guard Tower, quickly flew away from Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh...


    At the auction site, many cultivators dispersed like birds and beasts, seizing the opportunity to leave Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    "Changling, you¡¯ve worked hard for this auction."


    Behind Huang Changling, a weathered man in in clothes, who appeared to be in his forties with a few strands of white hair, appeared. The in-clothed man was at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment.


    "Uncle Tan, managing the marketce is my duty." Huang Changling, with his aged appearance, spoke respectfully.


    The Huang Family had three Foundation Establishment cultivators, with Huang Tantan, at mid-stage Foundation Establishment, being the strongest in terms of strength and seniority.


    At this moment, Huang Tantan and Huang Changling, the two Foundation Establishment cultivators, stood on the pavilion, eyeing the crowd of people departing from the auction.


    Overlooking the scene of the bustling marketce, the two Foundation Establishment cultivators felt a long-lost grandeur welling up within them.


    Just at this moment, a few miles away from Zhuye Mountain.


    "Audacious rogue cultivator¡ª"


    A stern shout rang out, followed by the fluctuations of a battle of cultivation arts.


    The powerful aura of mana collision reached the Foundation Establishment realm.


    "There are people fighting outside the market town!"


    "Could someone be trying to rob Foundation Establishment Pill?"


    The two Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Huang family''s expressions turned grim and unsightly.


    So close to the market town, they were already impatiently killing and looting, simply not regarding the Huang family with any respect.


    If you want to fight, at least do it further away.


    ...


    On the ins five or six miles from the market town.


    The three members of the Ning family were rapidly retreating on a flying boat, escorted by the Protector Pang from Heavenly Guard Tower and others.


    Suddenly.


    They detected a powerful ominous and sinister aura.


    In the distant sky, dark clouds roiled.


    A long-haired man with an evil and chilling aura, treading on ck cloudy light, blocked the path of a Foundation Establishment flying boat.


    "Hand over the Cold Moon de and Blood Spirit Pill, and this Liang will spare your life!" His cold voice carried an unquestioning tone.


    "Bold evil cultivator! You dare obstruct the Beast Taming Zhou family?"


    On the flying shuttle, a middle-aged schrly cultivator of the Foundation Establishment realm felt the oppressive sinister aura and could not help shouting sternly. It was none other than the Foundation Establishment Zhou Jingxuan of the Zhou family.


    "Uncle Jingxuan, this is Liang Shaotian!" Behind him, a yellow-robed girl at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining gasped in rm.


    The long-haired man wore a ck robe with cloud patterns. His face was somewhat pale, with sharp sword-like brows, a high bridged nose, and narrow elongated piercing ck pupils, like a deep cold abyss.


    Meeting his ck pupils, Zhou Qingxuan''s mind was shaken and she almost copsed.


    "The mere Beast Taming Zhou family, not knowing what''s good for them!" Liang Shaotian''s ck hair fluttered as his figure blurred.


    In the next instant, two or three ck wind shadows simultaneously attacked the middle-aged schr.


    Boom! Poof! Poof!


    Several huge ck riptide des, apanied by the sizzling of electric arcs, violently struck in front of the middle-aged schr.


    "Qingxuan, be careful!"


    The middle-aged schr was enraged. He took out a ck inkstone that swelled to several zhang in size, creating inky ck mists, like a miniature mountain peak.


    However, under the ravages of the ck riptide des and electric arcs, this high-grade magic treasure could only hold for a breath or two before dimming and shrinking.


    "Not good!"


    The middle-aged schr retreated hastily, condensing ayer of mana force as a shield. He also spat out a mouthful of essence blood onto the ck inkstone, causing its aura to rise and barely withstand the first round of attacks.


    Under the powerful force of the Foundation Establishment battle, Zhou Qingxuan''s petite body tumbled through the air, her talisman light shields shattering several times as she narrowly avoided thebat zone.


    "Nearby Foundation Establishment seniors, we are the Beast Taming Zhou family, pleasee to our aid!" The pale-faced beautiful Zhou Qingxuan cried out anxiously.


    "The Zhou family is under attack!"


    "It''s the demon Liang Shaotian!"


    Several Foundation Establishment cultivators who were leaving the market town were greatly shocked.


    Scanning with their spiritual senses, they saw Zhou Jingxuan of the Zhou family heavily injured and coughing blood, on the verge of death.


    "The target is not us! Quickly retreat¡ª" Heavenly Guard Tower''s Protector Pang''s face was aghast.


    "Yes, yes, quickly retreat!" The Foundation Establishment Ancestor of the Ning family could not agree more.


    The Foundation Establishment Pill they carried was like a hot potato. They dared not get entangled any further.


    The nearby Foundation Establishment cultivators avoided the area as much as possible.


    They were afraid that after killing Zhou Jingxuan, Liang Shaotian would go after them next.


    With a "peng" sound.


    The middle-aged schr Zhou Jingxuan fell from the air and knelt on the ground, barely clinging to life.


    "Senior Liang, my uncle offended you greatly. Please spare him. We are willing to offer the Cold Moon de and Blood Spirit Pill."


    Zhou Qingxuan supported her uncle, thinking of certain rumors about Liang Shaotian, and pleaded deferentially and mournfully.


    "Qingxuan, how could you submit to this kind of...ugh!" Zhou Jingxuan''s words were cut off as Zhou Qingxuan covered his mouth.


    She took off one of Zhou Jingxuan''s storage pouches and waved it toward Liang Shaotian.


    "It''s toote to beg now!"


    Liang Shaotian took the storage pouch, scanned it with his spiritual sense, and nced coldly at the severely injured and weakened Zhou Jingxuan.


    "Senior Liang, you are a giant of the Devil''s Way in your generation, please be lenient." Zhou Qingxuan''s face streamed with two lines of clear tears, a pitiful sight.


    "Cut off one arm." Liang Shaotian''s expression was indifferent as he stood with his hands behind his back.


    Pashh!


    Without waiting for her uncle''s consent, Zhou Qingxuan took out a glistening silver de and sliced off one of Zhou Jingxuan''s arms.


    "Ahh..." The middle-aged schr passed out.


    "Senior Liang, are you satisfied now?" Fresh blood sttered onto the girl''s exquisite jade-like face, putting a tinge of bewitching charm in her innocence.


    "Not bad, little girl!" Liang Shaotian nodded in approval and cast an appreciative gaze at her.


    With his hands sped behind his back, he trod on the ck cloudy light and turned to leave.


    Shua! Shua!


    At this moment, two Foundation Establishment auras rushed over from the Bamboo Leaf Mountain market town.


    "Daring evil cultivator! You daremit highway robbery so close to the market town."


    Huang Tankong and Huang Changling, two Foundation Establishment cultivators, broke through the air and rushed over.


    When other cultivators were attacked, they may not have intervened, but the Beast Taming Zhou family was a major power the Huang family wanted to curry favor with.


    But they had still arrived a bit toote.


    Liang Shaotian''s strength exceeded their expectations, and he had swiftly ended the battle. This made the two who rushed over feel some regret.


    "Courting death! How dare you Huangs meddle in this Liang''s affairs." Liang Shaotian''s ck pupils contracted as he nced at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment Huang Tankong, his brows furrowing slightly.


    He took a deep breath and slowly opened his palm.


    Poof!


    A cluster of distorted ck demonic mes shimmering with cold light sparked in his palm, emanating an aura of menacing danger that could chill even ghosts and gods.


    "That is..."


    The two Huang Foundation Establishment cultivators'' hearts pounded as they felt a fatal threat.


    "ck Dipper Demon me!"


    Huang Tankong cried out in horror.


    "One of the ten great demonic mes of the great cultivation world!"


    The nearby observing Foundation Establishment cultivators could not help but shudder in terror.


    "Changling, run quickly!" Huang Tankong shouted frantically and used an escape technique to flee rapidly toward the market town.


    Shua! Shua!


    The two powerful Huang Foundation Establishment cultivators who had rushed over retreated ingloriously back to Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    They immediately activated the second-rank defensive formation.


    "Haha!" Liang Shaotian''s arrogance swelled further as he cupped the ck Dipper Demon me and pursued them to the grand formation in front of Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    Standing arrogantly before the market town, demonic ominous clouds roiled. The oppressive aura was so strong that all the cultivators in the market town could hardly breathe.


    "Uncle Tan, can the formation defend against it?"


    "If the ck Dipper Demon me is as powerful as the legends say..." Huang Tankong''s voice was low and solemn.


    Liang Shaotian looked down haughtily at the many cultivators in the market town. No one dared meet his gaze, all lowering their heads.


    During this, he noticed Lan Chang''an. Lan Chang''an met his gaze expressionlessly. ncing at that cluster of demonic mes, he even felt likeughing inwardly.


    The entire market town fell into an oppressive silence for a long while.


    Suddenly, Liang Shaotian retracted the demonic mes, his hands sped behind his back as his long hair fluttered. He trod on the ck cloudy light and flew off into the distant horizon.


    "Out of consideration for Senior Yan, today I''ll spare Bamboo Leaf Market Town from a massacre!"


    The due chapters will be uploaded ASAP. I didn''t have any ess to the inte for the past 30hours, sorry for the dy.

 Chapter 47: Life Extension Pill Surprise

    Chapter 47: Life Extension Pill Surprise


    When Liang Shaotian left, the numerous cultivators on Bamboo Leaf Mountain breathed a sigh of relief. The two Foundation Establishment elders felt like a heavy burden had been lifted.


    At this moment, the sounds of fighting and spells shing could be heard within a radius of dozens of miles around the market town.


    ¡°Bastards, how dare you attack!¡±


    ¡°Evil cultivators, let¡¯s join forces!¡±


    ¡°Not good! It¡¯s the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle!¡±


    Although Liang Shaotian had shown off his skills and left, his earlier killing of the Zhou Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivator had set a precedent.


    Some hidden rogue cultivators and evil cultivators took advantage of the chaos after Liang Shaotian¡¯s action to fish in troubled waters, killing and plundering. For instance, the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle, who had attacked Mu Xiuyun earlier.


    Even some normal cultivators couldn¡¯t resist their greed and attacked those who had shown their wealth at the auction.


    Among them, even two Foundation Establishment cultivators fought fiercely, causing sand and stones to fly and violent winds to howl.For a while, the scene was chaotic.


    Amidst the clouds.


    A handsome man with flowing long hair, looking at the scene of the fight below, curled his lips into a wicked smile and clicked his tongue:


    "Whether the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom is in chaos or not, I, Liang Shaotian, decide!"


    "One day, I will restore the glory of the Xuanyin Devil Dao and overturn the heavens of the Great Qing Cultivation Realm!" Liang Shaotian let out a long roar, wild and arrogant.


    His speed grew faster and faster, and the view of Bamboo Leaf Mountain behind him became the size of a pebble.


    He took onest look at the market town, a deep fear flickering in his eyes.


    "A Nascent Soul Grand Spirit who does not belong to this era - Yan Doni!"


    ¡°In the Devil Dao''s heritage scriptures, there was indeed a record of that great cultivator.¡±


    It turned out that many years ago, when Liang Shaotian had suffered a setback at the Mu Family''s herb garden and was driven away by Lan Chang''an, he was indignant and went back to search through Devil Dao''s heritage scriptures.


    As a result.


    In an ancient and solitary scripture of the Xuanyin Devil Sect, there was a brief mention of Yan Doni, a legendary Nascent Soul Grand Spirit cultivator from ten thousand years ago in the Great Qing Cultivation World.


    At that time, the leaders of both the righteous and demonic paths personally weed him.


    Other rted details were unknown.


    Liang Shaotian had searched through many ancient books, but he could not find any record of Yan Doni.


    Therefore, Liang Shaotian no longer had any doubts about the identity of the remnant soul on Lan Chang''an and kept it deep in his heart.


    He didn''t dare to rashly approach the cultivator possessed by that old monster.


    "I can''t stay in this area any longer. I still need to find several rare materials to do the initial refinement of the ck Dipper Demon me."


    "Luckily, those two Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Huang family had never seen the world and retreated in fear." Liang Shaotian showed a disdainful smile.


    ...


    Outside the Bamboo Leaf Market Town, the sounds of killing gradually subsided.


    Many cultivators stayed in the market town, not daring to go out easily, fearing that Liang Shaotian and other rogue cultivators hadn¡¯t left.


    ¡°Senior Yan, can we meet?¡±


    The two Foundation Establishment elders of the Huang Family floated in the air above the market, cupping their hands respectfully in all directions.


    Senior Yan?


    Lan Chang''an heard the voice of the Huang Family¡¯s Foundation Establishment elder, feeling a little strange inside.


    At that time, Liang Shaotian had held the ck Dipper Demon me, appearing as if he would destroy the market town.


    He was quite speechless, having never seen anyone so good at bluffing.


    The two Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Huang Family were too cowardly. If they had fought with all their might and cooperated with other neutral Foundation Establishment cultivators, they would have had aplete chance to kill Liang Shaotian.


    After all, Liang Shaotian¡¯s cultivation was at the peak of the early Foundation Establishment stage, not as good as the mid-stage Foundation Establishment Huang Tankong. At the Foundation Establishment Realm, the gap between each minor realm was huge, let alone having the advantage of numbers.


    The so-called ck Dipper Demon me was nothing more than a mere fa?ade. Its aura was indeed terrifying on the surface, but in reality, it hadn¡¯t been truly refined.


    With his previous life¡¯s peak Core Formation insight, Lan Chang''an could see through it at a nce.


    ¡°Since Senior Yan doesn¡¯t want to meet, we won¡¯t disturb you anymore.¡± In mid-air, Huang Tankong politely cupped his hands again.


    To make Liang Shaotian wary and address him as a Senior, he was at the very least a Fake-dan Immortal, with a higher probability of being an expert at the Core Formation Realm or higher.


    Such an old monster wandering in the mortal world was unwilling to meet, which was within the Huang Family¡¯s expectations. Their gesture was just to show respect.


    ¡°Daoist Zhou, are your injuries okay?¡± Huang Tankong and Huang Changling, the two Foundation Establishment cultivators,nded in front of a cave-dwelling near the mountaintop.


    Zhou Jingxuan, the injured Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Zhou Family, was recovering inside the cave dwelling.


    The restriction opened, and the two of them entered the cave.


    ¡°There are no major injuries. Fortunately, Qingxuan was clever and kept the severed arm intact, so I was able to reattach it in time.¡±


    Zhou Jingxuany weakly on the bed, his arm wrapped in bandages, emitting a strange medicinal scent.


    The girl in a yellow dress tending to him was Zhou Qingxuan.


    Upon learning what happened, Huang Changling was surprised: ¡°Miss Zhou, how did you know you could save your life this way?¡± At that time, Liang Shaotian could have easily killed them both.


    ¡°I''ve been curious about Liang Shaotian before. It¡¯s said that he loves face and acts on his whims. Most of those who survived under him had spoken ttering words.¡± Zhou Qingxuan, who was still afraid, managed to smile.


    The two Foundation Establishment elders of the Huang Family were surprised.


    They secretly decided that once they returned to the family, they would have to tell the younger generation this important information, so that if they were unfortunate enough to encounter Liang Shaotian in the future, they might have a chance to survive.


    After the Huang Family¡¯s Foundation Establishment elders left, Zhou Jingxuan lifted his eyelids and said unhappily:


    ¡°Qingxuan, next time you cut off your uncle¡¯s arm, can you at least give a heads up?¡±


    ¡°Hehe, it¡¯s for your own good, Uncle Jingxuan, a short pain is better than a long one.¡± Zhou Qingxuan broke into a mischievous smile, regaining her lively and yful demeanor.


    After a moment of silence, she said softly: ¡°Uncle Jingxuan, I don¡¯t want to return to the family.¡±


    ¡°You want to stay at Bamboo Leaf Mountain? The family¡¯s business here doesn''t need more manpower.¡±


    Zhou Jingxuan asked, puzzled.


    ¡°I want to stay here for a few years and investigate that mysterious Senior Yan.¡± Zhou Qingxuan revealed her decision.


    ¡°Senior Yan? Such a mysterious figure, how can you find him? In the cultivation world, too much curiosity is not a good thing.¡± Zhou Jingxuan didn¡¯t quite agree and tried to persuade her.


    However, seeing the girl pouting and biting her lip, he knew he couldn¡¯t persuade her. Zhou Qingxuan was usually lively and clever, very likable, but sometimes very stubborn.


    ...


    Two dayster, the Bamboo Leaf Market Town gradually returned to normal.


    Most of the cultivators who attended the auction had left. The market was much quieter.


    However, in the teahouses and taverns, there were still discussions about Liang Shaotian and Senior Yan.


    This auction''s crisis and chaos left a psychological shadow on many cultivators who came from afar.


    For many years after, the poprity of Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town never reached the Huang Family¡¯s expectations.


    The fervor of this auction seemed to be the historical peak of this market town.


    ...


    On the third floor of the talisman shop.


    Lan Chang''an set up an array and severalyers of restrictions in his room.


    He took out the first-rank Life Extension Pill he had bought at the auction from his storage pouch.


    In the past two days, with many people in the marketce and Mu Xiuyun staying in the shop, he couldn''t easily take out the Life Extension Pill to test it.


    Finally, it was quiet.


    Lan Chang''an looked at the dark, greenish-ck pill in his palm, emitting a strange smell.


    It was hard to imagine that this was an extremely precious Life Extension Pill in the cultivation world.


    Activating his Evergreen Technique, the mana in Lan Chang''an¡¯s body surged, further confirming his spection.


    He sat cross-legged, took the first-rank Life Extension Pill, and closed his eyes to meditate.


    As soon as the pill entered his stomach, Evergreen mana surged, engulfing the pill.


    In the next moment.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heartbeat quickened, capturing a much stronger aura of time¡¯s passage than before.


    In just a few breaths, he seemed to transform into a towering ancient tree, experiencing the cycles of seasons, life, and death, one after another.


    After ten cycles, the effect of the Life Extension Pill disappeared. His state of mind was now enriched with a sense of having gone through the vicissitudes of time.


    ¡°Ten years of longevity?¡± Lan Chang''an opened his deep eyes, showing a trace of surprise.


    He clearly felt that his lifespan had increased by ten years. This was double the expected five years.


    This surprised him greatly, thinking for a long time, he could only guess that the Evergreen Technique could maximize the benefits of the Life Extension Pill.


    Lan Chang''an carefully sensed the changes in his mana.


    Soon, he revealed a look of ecstasy.


    ¡°This Life Extension Pill not only increases my lifespan but also slightly enhances the strength of my mana.¡± Lan Chang''an was overjoyed.


    Given his special situation, he suspected that taking a second or third Life Extension Pill of the same rank might still have an effect.


    It might not have such a good longevity effect, but there was a good chance it could still enhance his mana.


    Unfortunately, he didn¡¯t dare to buy a second Life Extension Pill at that time.


    Besides the pressure from elderly cultivators, buying a second one wouldn¡¯t make sense. After all, for ordinary cultivators, taking a second Life Extension Pill of the same rank has no effect.


    Lan Chang''an thought: ¡°In the future, besides Life Extension Pills, I need to pay attention to other longevity-rted materials and treasures.¡±


    Taking just one Life Extension Pill of the lowest rank could strengthen his mana by a silver. In the future, if he could take higher-ranked longevity items and add up the quantity, the results would be something to look forward to.


    Moreover, cultivating the Evergreen technique meant that the longer one lived, the stronger their mana would be.


    The power of the Evergreen Technique is currently slightly stronger than that of a generic technique, but it couldn''tpare to the sect techniques, especially the core sect protecting techniques.


    If he lived for hundreds or thousands of years and consumed arge amount of longevity items. By then, this seemingly mediocre wood-based technique might rival the strongest of sect techniques in power.


    This doesn''t even include the advantages of the Evergreen Technique such as life extension, health preservation, longer qi veins, poison dissolution and healing abilities.


    After testing the Longevity Pill.


    Lan Chang''an took out a dark gray turtle egg, about the size of a baby''s fist.


    (End of the chapter)

 Chapter 48: Farewell to Siyao

    Chapter 48: Farewell to Siyao


    This turtle egg was none other than the spirit beast egg of the Profound Water Turtle with an earth-grade bloodline.


    Lan Chang''an ced his hand on the eggshell''s surface, feeling the faint life force within, which was steadily weakening.


    Without nurturing from precious spiritual liquids, the life force within the turtle egg wouldpletely vanish within six months.


    "The Zhou family really sold a dud." Lan Chang''an sighed. If it weren''t for that, he couldn''t have gotten his hands on this egg.


    Without rare treasures, it would be nearly impossible to hatch this Profound Water Turtle egg. Even if hatched, it would still be a loss.


    It was a trap for whoever bought it. Even if one paid the price, the hatched turtle would likely be sickly.


    After observing for a while, Lan Chang''an carefully injected a strand of Evergreen mana into the turtle egg.


    Ordinary mana might cause unforeseen negative consequences if used recklessly. However, Lan Chang''an''s cultivation technique focused on nourishing the vitality, and his Evergreen mana was peaceful and imbued with life energy.


    Even so, he only infused a tiny amount of mana."Hmm?"


    That wisp of Evergreen mana was rapidly absorbed by the turtle egg, losing its connection almost immediately. Moreover, he sensed a faint pulse of life within the eggshell, conveying a weak sense of yearning.


    Seeing this, Lan Chang''an slowly increased the amount of Evergreen mana he infused. The Profound Water Turtle egg seemed like a sponge, continuously absorbing Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen mana.


    It wasn''t until Lan Chang''an''s mana was nearly depleted that the absorption rate slowed down.


    The life force within the egg stabilized, and the trend of weakening vitality was halted.


    "This can be considered a sess in saving its life."


    "However, this turtle egg seems to have been affected by some external force. The life embryo inside is still weak, essentially unchanged. It will probably be a sickly creature upon hatching."


    Lan Chang''an pondered whether to use the secret healing spell of the Evergreen Technique. This technique could even bring back the seemingly dead Mu Xiuyun, so healing a sickly creature shouldn''t be an issue.


    However, performing this healing technique would consume his longevity. Last time, reviving Mu Xiuyun cost him two months of lifespan.


    If it only consumed a year or half a year, it would be eptable. Lan Chang''an had just taken a first-rank Life Extension Pill, extending his life by ten years.


    He couldn''t be certain how much lifespan it would take to ensure the healthy hatching of the Profound Water Turtle.


    Additionally, the interference of Evergreen mana might bring about unforeseen changes after hatching. Everything was unknown, like opening a blind box.


    "No rush. Zhou Qingxuan is still in the marketce. Her beast taming talent is exceptional, and I must be cautious." If Zhou Qingxuan decided to check on the turtle egg''s condition on a whim, it could be troublesome.


    ...


    The next morning, Lan Chang''an went to the inn in the marketce to see off Zhao Siyao.


    Yesterday, Li Ergou and Lin Yi had already left for their return journey.


    Zhao Siyao didn''t n to return to the sect but wanted to seek opportunities for Foundation Establishment, staying in the market town for a few days to procure some resources.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, have you thought it through? Are you really going to the ck Fog Mountain Range for training?" Looking at Zhao Siyao, who was cold and elegant, like an immortal, Lan Chang''an was somewhat surprised by her decision.


    Zhao Siyao''s cultivation had reached the peak of the ninthyer of the Qi-Refining stage. She only needed to stay in the sect, gaining experience andpleting tasks, while waiting for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "I''ve been stuck at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining for over ten years, my cultivation has stagnated, my mind has be restless, and my will has weakened. The recent auction and the chaos caused by the evil cultivators in the marketce opened my eyes and gave me new insights."


    Zhao Siyao sighed.


    "In terms of life experience, I can''tpare to Lin Yi or you, Fellow Daoist Lan. This time, I n to go to the Huanglong Immortal City, and from there, head to the ck Fog Mountain Range to hone myself, kill demonic beasts, and solidify my foundation." Zhao Siyao''s voice was clear, and her gaze was firm.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment. Training in the ck Fog Mountain Range wasn''t without risk. Going out to train was partly to sharpen her will.


    Some precious spiritual herbs and demonic beast materials in the ck Fog Mountain Range could be exchanged for contributions in the sect. Zhao Siyao wanted to exchange for the Foundation Establishment Pill, but her contributions in the sect were insufficient. Simply waiting would inevitably cause anxiety.


    Especially after this auction, the Foundation Establishment Pill seemed out of reach. She realized her predicament and decided to go out and try her luck.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, hasn''t your mentor supported you?" Lan Chang''an''s heart fluttered, and he asked.


    Zhao Siyao was under the tutge of a Fake-Dan Immortal female master, which Lan Chang''an had initially thought was reassuring.


    With such a master, her outstanding beauty and temperament would be somewhat safeguarded in the sect, not easily coveted or subjected to unfair rules by her seniors.


    It was reasonable to say that with the status of a Fake-Dan Immortal, a little care in the sect would be able to speed up Zhao Siyao''s progress in building her foundation.


    "My mentor, the elder, has several disciples and not much resources to spare for me." Zhao Siyao forced a smile, her emotions slightly downcast.


    "Besides, her grandson is an inner disciple and now under her tutge, requiring a lot of investment..." Although Zhao Siyao didn''t borate, Lan Chang''an immediately guessed the situation.


    If the Fake-Dan Immortal master wanted to cultivate her grandson, how much of an impact would it have on taking care of Zhao Siyao''s foundation building? It wasn''t as if the other party had to pay for all the resources needed for the Foundation Establishment. The issue likelyy with that grandson.


    The female Fake-Dan master probably wanted to pair Zhao Siyao with her grandson. This way, the resources she used for Zhao Siyao would be considered spent on her own family.


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly, he had thought that Zhao Siyao would be able to avoid coveting gazes and subterfuge if she were to be under the tutge of a female master. In reality, it was avoided but notpletely.


    Zhao Siyao probably looked down on her mentor''s grandson, causing displeasure to the mentor, who then wasn''t willing to genuinely support her to the Foundation Establishment.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, since you''re going to the ck Fog Mountain Range for training, I can''t offer much help, but I can give you two superior-grade first-rank talismans as a token of my regard." Lan Chang''an took out a Divine Speed Talisman and a Spring Return Talisman and handed them to Zhao Siyao. The former was for elerated escape and thetter for healing.


    Zhao Siyao''s journey would inevitably be risky, determining her future prospects for Foundation Establishment. If luck wasn''t on her side, a beautiful life could end prematurely. Today might be Lan Chang''an''sst meeting with Zhao Siyao.


    Zhao Siyao epted the talismans without hesitation, feeling the extraordinary power within them. These were clearly not ordinary superior-grade first-rank talismans.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, these two talismans..." She blinked her beautiful eyes in surprise.


    "These were made by Miss Mu. I rarely leave the marketce, so I don''t need them." Lan Chang''an spoke lightly. Mu Xiuyun, as a superior-grade first-rank talisman master, could theoretically make them, though with a lower sess rate.


    A superior-grade first-rank talisman was equivalent to ate-stage Qi-Refining spell, while a premium superior-grade talisman could rival the power of a peak Qi-Refining spell. Though not as powerful as a killing secret technique or a superior-grade magical weapon, it was still a significant aid for ate-stage Qi-Refining cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Siyao will remember your kindness." Zhao Siyao gracefully curtsied, her elegant dress fluttering.


    She guessed that these were life-saving talismans given to Lan Chang''an by his future wife, Mu Xiuyun.


    Lan Chang''an''s willingness to gift them showed deep affection!


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, take care on your journey."


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, no need to see me off." Before leaving, the elegant and cool Fairy Zhao nced back at Lan Chang''an. The white-robed youth remained as ever, serene andposed.


    Their eyes met for a moment. Zhao Siyao''s gaze was clear and calm. She nodded slightly and flew away gracefully.


    ...


    After the auction, Bamboo Leaf Mountain returned to tranquility, with business bing much quieter.


    In the next one or two years, the poprity slightly improved but never regained its former glory.


    Lan Chang''an stayed in the marketce, living a calm and leisurely life.


    Cultivation and talisman-making didn''t take much time.


    The Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual steadily progressed, reaching the thirdyer three years after the auction.


    This corresponded to thete stage of Qi-Refining!


    As expected, his body refinement cultivation surpassed his mana cultivation.


    At this time, his physique wasparable to ate-stage first-rank demonic beast.


    low-grade magical artifacts, unless hitting vital spots, posed little threat, unable to breach his physical defense.


    He often sighed, "The body refinement manual and Evergreen Technique are indeed a perfect match."


    The former consumed time and effort, enhancing survival ability; thetter extended lifespan and improved recovery.


    "Has that talented granddaughter of the Zhou family left?"


    Shortly after reaching the thirdyer of the body refinement manual, Lan Chang''an heard good news.


    For the past few years, Zhou Qingxuan had stayed at Bamboo Leaf Mountain, asionally running into Lan Chang''an in the marketce.


    She only inquired about the Profound Water Turtle once, not focusing on it.


    She had once asked Lan Chang''an, "Talisman Master Lan, since you stay in the marketce long-term, please keep an eye out for any suspicious cultivators who might be the hidden ''Senior Yan.''" Lan Chang''an found it amusing, not expecting Zhou Qingxuan''s curiosity to be so strong.


    She probably concluded that the mysterious Senior Yan was a righteous cultivator, who had once protected the marketce, hence her boldness in seeking him. Fortunately, she lost patience after three years and finally left.


    Relieved, Lan Chang''an set up a restriction on the second floor and performed the secret healing spell of the Evergreen Technique.


    Buzz!


    Mana surged within him, and a faint green light, like newborn sprouts, enveloped his hand, infusing into the turtle egg.


    From within the eggshell came waves of joyous, eager emotions.


    One month... two months... three months...


    Lan Chang''an monitored his lifespan consumption rate, finding it not excessive. Actively consuming lifespan didn''t deplete his vitality.


    After expending three months of lifespan.


    The life force within the turtle egg elevated, radiating cheerful and affectionate emotions.


    Now, the life energy in the Profound Water Turtle egg reached a normal level.


    It was basically enough but to ensure the hatched Profound Water Turtle had a better constitution, was robust and easy to care of, Lan Chang''an infused another three months of lifespan.


    He had only consumed two months of longevity when he had saved Mu Xiuyun''s life. Now, the life force within the turtle egg was increasingly more active and vigorous.

 Chapter 49: Sudden Bad News

    Chapter 49: Sudden Bad News


    Lan Chang''an ced his hand on the surface of the eggshell, faintly sensing the heartbeat and subtle movements inside.


    He confirmed that the Profound Water Turtle had entered the incubation stage.


    For a period of time thereafter, he nourished the turtle egg daily with a bit of Evergreen mana, providing energy and sustenance.


    Whenever he infused Evergreen mana, the life within the eggshell would send out affectionate and dependent spiritual waves.


    Lan Chang''an believed that the hatched turtle, even without a spirit pet contract, would recognize him as its master.


    Two monthster.


    With a "crack," the eggshell broke.


    A miniature turtle, smaller than a baby''s palm, adorably struggled to break out of the shell. Using all its strength, it first emerged with its head, then its body and limbs, finally crawling out of the eggshell.


    After hatching, the little Profound Water Turtle, with its cute, clumsy eyes, looked around nervously, quickly locking onto Lan Chang''an.Sensing the familiar aura, the baby turtle affectionately crawled over, rubbing against Lan Chang''an''s wrist.


    Lan Chang''an spread his hand, and the Profound Water Turtle climbed onto it, upying only a third of his palm, continuously rubbing against his hand''s aura, almost toppling over, looking extremely cute.


    After the Profound Water Turtle hatched.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat in Lan Chang''an''s spirit pet pouch became restless and agitated.


    Squeak, squeak!


    Therge Earth Burrowing Rat was released, staring at the Profound Water Turtle on Lan Chang''an''s palm, a cold glint shing in its eyes, baring its teeth.


    The Profound Water Turtle was frightened and tried to crawl into Lan Chang''an''s clothes.


    Bang!


    Lan Chang''an kicked the Earth Burrowing Rat, which squeaked in pain, its murderous intent receding, revealing a wronged expression.


    "From now on, it is also your master. If you dare to have any ill intentions, I''ll send you to the beast fighting arena..."


    Lan Chang''an warned and then put the Earth Burrowing Rat back into the storage pouch.


    Not to mention the difference between middle-grade bloodline and earth-grade bloodline. The Profound Water Turtle was personally nurtured and hatched by him, with much care and effort.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was merely a trophy obtained halfway through. Naturally, there was noparison between the two.


    Lan Chang''an fed the baby turtle some spiritual liquid and checked its physical condition.


    In the jade slip given by Zhou Qingxuan, there was an illustrated guide of the Profound Water Turtle, including the baby turtle.


    Lan Chang''anpared and found that the appearance was basically the same. However, the pattern on the turtle shell had slight differences.


    Lan Chang''an''s baby turtle had a slight leaf-like pattern on its shell, which was hard to notice unless looked at carefully.


    The baby turtle was very small, and Lan Chang''an usually kept it in the spirit pet pouch, creating a moist environment inside.


    This turtle was quite clingy; Lan Chang''an would take it out daily to interact and infuse it with a bit of Evergreen mana.


    The Profound Water Turtle mainly had water attributes but also some wood attributes.


    The one Lan Chang''an was raising could, within a few days of birth, spit out light green bubbles, apanied by faint mana fluctuations.


    ...


    In Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town.


    Lan Chang''an''s days remainedrgely unchanged.


    Although he had an additional pet, the Profound Water Turtle was actually quite easy to raise. It was quiet and didn''t cause trouble.


    It didn''t consume many resources, far less than normal earth-grade spirit beasts, with the only drawback being its slow growth.


    In the blink of an eye, a year or two passed.


    It had been five years since the auction. Lan Chang''an was now forty-three years old.


    His cultivation had almost reached the peak of the sixthyer of Qi-Refining, needing another year or two to advance to the seventhyer. His appearance still looked around twenty, in his prime.


    At this time, the baby Profound Water Turtle had grown to the size of an adult''s palm, its mana fluctuations reaching the early stage of Qi-Refining.


    Lan Chang''an felt that his Profound Water Turtle might be growing slightly faster than described in the jade slip.


    ...


    After feeding the Profound Water Turtle, Lan Chang''an went to the shop''s first floor.


    "Youngdy, you''re back?" Mu Xiuyun, dressed in a green silk long dress, was at the shop counter checking talismans.


    Two years ago, Mu Xiuyun had advanced to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining and had been frequently absent from the shop since then.


    It was unclear if her family had matters to attend to or if she was nning her Foundation Establishment.


    Fortunately, the shop''s business was stable, not particrly good or bad, and the two apprentices had grown.


    Mu Shan and Mu Ershun had be first-rank low-grade talisman masters, their low-grade talismans already profitable.


    Among them, Mu Shan was adept at dealing with people and was considered the shop''s second manager.


    "Chang''an, this is a spirit pigeon message delivered by the market post." Mu Xiuyun elegantly moved her hair, gracefully and gently handing a letter to Lan Chang''an.


    The envelope bore the mark of Jin Yun Valley, sent by Zhao Siyao.


    In the cultivation world, fixed cultivation settlements, like major marketces, sects, and families, had postal services for exchanging letters.


    The messages from the spirit pigeons were rtively fast.


    Lan Chang''an used a specific method to break the restriction on the envelope and opened the letter.


    A few years ago, Zhao Siyao went to Huanglong Immortal City near the ck Fog Mountain Range and asionally kept in touch with Lan Chang''an.


    Recently, Zhao Siyao had almost gathered the resources for the Foundation Establishment Pill and had returned to Jin Yun Valley.


    "Chang''an, what''s wrong?" Mu Xiuyun looked over with concern.


    Lan Chang''an''s face changed abruptly, his brows furrowing as he read the letter halfway.


    He looked solemn and remained silent for a long time.


    "Lin Yi... gravely injured and dead?"


    Mu Xiuyun took the letter, her expression shocked, her delicate fingers trembling lightly.


    "What! Uncle Lin is dead?"


    Not far away, Mu Ershun, busy with work, heard the conversation and eximed in shock.


    Lin Yi was his father''s friend.


    For twenty years, he had visited the Mu family many times, including during the auction in the market town.


    Thest meeting was five years ago.


    At that time, Uncle Lin had asked his proud son, Lin Lu, to interact more with Mu Ershun.


    Unexpectedly, today, this bad news came suddenly.


    Mu Xiuyun put down the letter and said softly, "Chang''an, are you going to visit?"


    "Yes."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, considering the friendship of over twenty years.


    As a talisman master, he frequently traded with Lin Yi''s Hidden Immortal Pavilion, and they had a box full of exchanged letters.


    Zhao Siyao was heading to Hengshui Prefecture.


    Regarding Lin Yi''s cause of death.


    The letter described that Lin Yi led cultivators from the Hidden Immortal Pavilion to assist Jin Yun Valley disciples in encircling a wanted evil cultivator. Initially, it seemed like a sure victory, but they encountered an ambush.


    In the end, although they repelled the evil cultivator, Lin Yi was severely injured and beyond saving. By the time he was sent back to Hengshui Prefecture, he had already died from his injuries.


    ...


    "Let''s find Changqing first."


    Lan Chang''an rode on Mu Xiuyun''s flying boat, and the two set off together.


    In the past ten years, it was Lan Chang''an''s first time leaving the market town.


    "Wow! The sun must be rising from the west. That turtle talisman master is actually going out?"


    Familiar cultivators in the marketce, seeing Lan Chang''an leaving, couldn''t help but be amazed.


    Nowadays, the vicinity of Bamboo Leaf Mountain is rtively stable, with few marauding cultivators causing trouble.


    The evil-faced flying eagle of the past was now just a rumor, long gone.


    Even if it appeared.


    With Lan Chang''an''s body refining attainments, the Earth Burrowing Rat''s peak first-rank strength, even without using talisman trump cards, he was confident in handling it. Not to mention, he had Mu Xiuyun, a ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator, with him.


    The flying boat was fast, reaching the Mu family residence at Feiyue Lake in less than a day.


    After ten years away.


    Seeing the sparkling, jade-like Feiyue Lake, Lan Chang''an felt a sense of familiarity.


    Feiyue Manor and the surrounding spiritual fields and herb gardens had changed significantly.


    The number of family cultivators had noticeably increased, with many young faces.


    The flying boatnded at Li Ergou''s courtyard.


    "Lin Yi is dead? The young marquis is dead?"


    Hearing the bad news, Li Ergou''s round face trembled slightly, stunned for a long time.


    Perhaps his most vivid memory of Lin Yi was still that young marquis exuding royal authority twenty years ago,manding respect.


    Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou agreed to go to Hengshui Prefecture to pay their respects.


    "Chang''an, I''ll go with you." Mu Xiuyun said softly.


    "No need, you are now a senior member of the Mu family with important duties to attend to." Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    He knew Mu Xiuyun was busy, traveling between the family and the shop, and nning her Foundation Establishment. Moreover, Mu Xiuyun had no personal rtionship with Lin Yi.


    Mu Xiuyun''s gentle eyes darkened slightly, and she softly replied, "Then I''ll lend you the flying boat."


    ...


    A few dayster.


    The flying boat arrived at a valley a hundred miles south of Hengshui City.


    This was the Hidden Immortal Pavilion''s base, concealed by an illusion array. Lin Yi''sst wish was to be buried here.


    Landing in the valley.


    Lan Chang''an saw five or six cultivators sitting in a corner of the valley.


    There was a tomb there with a tombstone.


    Zhao Siyao, dressed in white, sat beside a slightly dark-skinned young man and waved to them.


    "Uncle Lan, Uncle Li."


    Lin Lu knelt before the tombstone, his eyes bloodshot, his face haggard and sorrowful.


    Li Ergou stared nkly at the name on the tombstone. Suddenly, he broke down and wailed. This made Lin Lu, kneeling beside him, start sobbing as well.


    Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised. Although Li Ergou had known Lin Yi for a long time, their rtionship wasn''t particrly close.


    When they first met, Lin Yi had somewhat looked down on Li Ergou.


    Li Ergou was very afraid of that young marquis. Later, they became friends, letting bygones be bygones, with no secrets between them.


    Zhao Siyao and a few cultivators came over to console Li Ergou.


    "Big brother, Lin Yi was smarter and more capable than me, creating a cultivation force single-handedly and enjoying great glory. I can''tpare to him!" Li Ergou said, wiping his tears.


    "On this long road of cultivation, how many more steps can we take than him? Eventually, we will all..." Lin Yi''s death had severely shaken Li Ergou''s Dao heart.


    Lin Yi was the first but not thest!


    The path ahead seemed dark.


    This pessimistic mood even affected Zhao Siyao and a few cultivators, making the atmosphere heavy.


    Lan Chang''an lit an incense stick and bowed to the tombstone.


    He broke the silence.


    "You are right, we cannot see the end of the immortal path. Each step may lead to our downfall. But with each step, we see sights never seen before, which makes the immortal destiny of our life worthwhile. If you can''t seed in this life, there''s always the next one!


    "I don''t seek eternity in the Great Dao, I only wish that the immortal way remains evergreen."

 Chapter 50: Building Up Strength

    Chapter 50: Building Up Strength


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eulogy before the tombstone seemed to illuminate a dawn in the darkness, brightening the hearts of the cultivators present.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan is right. The deceased are gone, and the living must continue. May we all encourage each other, and may the path of immortality remain evergreen."


    Next to Zhao Siyao, a resolute young man with slightly dark skin spoke in praise.


    Looking at this young man in the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, Lan Chang''an felt a sense of familiarity and quickly recalled: "Your Excellency is Zhang Tieshan, Fellow Daoist Zhang?"


    "Twenty years have passed, and Fellow Daoist Lan still remembers me." Zhang Tieshan nodded.


    He sighed with sorrow on his face and said, "Back then, we met in Hengshui Prefecture. Fellow Daoist Lan should have advised Lin to not follow me to that haunted house to exorcise ghosts." Hearing this, Lan Chang''an felt a stir in his heart. Zhang Tieshan''s tone carried a hint of guilt.


    After some conversation, Lan Chang''an learned that Lin Yi¡¯s death had some connection to Zhang Tieshan.


    "Twenty years ago, Lin Yi followed Zhang Tieshan to exorcise ghosts in a haunted house, gaining some small rewards, which established a rtionship between the two."


    Zhang Tieshan had average qualifications but strong willpower, remarkablebat skills, and often took on sect missions to eliminate evil cultivators wanted by the sect.Lin Yi¡¯s Hidden Immortal Pavilion provided Zhang Tieshan with intelligence and assistance.


    Over time, other sect disciples also sought Lin Yi¡¯s help, offering rewards.


    "Twenty yearster, Lin Yi led the cultivators of the Hidden Immortal Pavilion to assist the disciples of Jin Yun Valley in encircling a wanted criminal, encountering an ambush, and died from serious injuries."


    Reflecting on the past twenty years, Lan Chang''an felt a sense of emotion. Back then, Lin Yi''s choice to follow Zhang Tieshan to exorcise ghosts seemed to have sown the seeds for today¡¯s oue.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, there¡¯s no need for self-me. Brother Lin surely wouldn''t regret his decision."


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself, if Lin Yi hadn¡¯t met Zhang Tieshan, he wouldn¡¯t have achieved hister sesses.


    He established the Hidden Immortal Pavilion, absorbed wandering cultivators, umted resources, and ensured his son¡¯s smooth entry into Jin Yun Valley.


    With Lin Yi¡¯s qualifications, managing forces in the secr world, he wouldn¡¯t have been able to establish a foundation in this lifetime.


    Even if he didn¡¯t fall today, he would have lived just a few more decades.


    "Lin Lu, your father left you quite a legacy. From now on, you must cultivate steadily, step by step." Zhang Tieshan earnestly advised.


    "Yes, Uncle Zhang." Lin Lu replied respectfully, lowering his head in shame.


    He thought of how he had once fought with someone in the sect over a beautiful female cultivator, and Zhang Tieshan had admonished him on this matter.


    ...


    Before Lin Yi¡¯s grave, most of the cultivators who had been close to him in life had gathered.


    Some offered incense in tribute, while others poured wine before the tombstone.


    Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan took the lead, suggesting they take care of Lin Yi¡¯s son.


    Besides the care from the sect, it was best to preserve the spiritualnd of the Hidden Immortal Pavilion.


    Lin Lu, now twenty years old, at the fourthyer of Qi-Refining, and a sect disciple, was not weaker than his father in strength.


    As long as the cultivators present spoke up, other cultivators wouldn¡¯t dare covet Lin Lu¡¯s inheritance and this piece of spiritualnd. As for whether the Hidden Immortal Pavilion should continue, that was up to Lin Lu.


    Seven days after Lin Yi''s burial, Zhang Tieshan and the other cultivators took their leave.


    "Lin Lu, what happened to Xia Felen, whom your father caught refining pills in the underground pce?" Lan Chang''an asked privately.


    Lin Lu''s expression became slightly unnatural as he replied, "ording to my father''s will, he was forced to take poison andmit suicide."


    Lan Chang''an made noment, merely wanting to know the result. If Xia Felen were still alive, he would certainly hate Lin Yi and his son, even implicating Lan Chang''an and others.


    "Before my father died, he instructed me to learn from you, Uncle Lan, to survive long in the world of cultivation." Lin Lu said softly. Lan Chang''an was taken aback, not expecting Lin Yi¡¯s will to include praise for him. This time, Lin Lu appeared less arrogant.


    Before the tombstone, only Zhao Siyao, Lan Chang''an, and Li Ergou remained. After giving some instructions, the three bid farewell and left.


    ...


    Flying out of the valley of the Hidden Immortal Pavilion,


    Lan Chang''an chatted briefly with Zhao Siyao, mainly about her progress in foundation establishment.


    "I¡¯ve umted enough contribution points and applied to the sect to redeem them. One of the next batch of Foundation Establishment Pills will be mine." Zhao Siyao mentioned this with a pleased tone.


    "That''s good. Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Zhao, on achieving foundation establishment soon." Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou congratted her in advance.


    "There is one thing I haven¡¯t thanked you for." Before leaving, Zhao Siyao gracefully bowed to Lan Chang''an.


    "Years ago, the two premium talismans you gave me provided crucial assistance in the ck Fog Mountain Range."


    "With our friendship, these two talismans are not worth mentioning." Lan Chang''an spoke generously, saying pleasant words. Once Zhao Siyao established her foundation, two first-rank talismans would be trivial.


    "Since our friendship is so deep, if I am fortunate enough to establish my foundation, I hope you won''t change the way you address me again." Zhao Siyao smiled charmingly and waved goodbye.


    "Change the way to address her?"


    Li Ergou was puzzled for a moment, then realized, "ording to the rules of the cultivation world, if Fellow Daoist Zhao establishes her foundation, we would have to address her as Senior."


    In the cultivation world, one''s cultivation came first and foremost. Unless it¡¯s a direct bloodline or a master-disciple rtionship, seniority is mostly determined by cultivation.


    "Back then, in the Gathering Immortals Building, this woman remembered the matter of changing the way of address so clearly, she might have held a grudge!" Lan Chang''an smiled bitterly.


    However, Zhao Siyao¡¯s words today, forbidding Lan Chang''an from calling her "Senior" in the future, showed she truly valued their friendship and was not heartless.


    In the cultivation world, there were plenty of ungrateful people.


    For example, in Lan Chang''an¡¯s past life, his family had a genius with an excellent Earth Spiritual Root. The family sent him to the sect, sparing no expense in providing resources.


    That genius naturally took all this for granted.


    Later, after sessfully forming a golden core, he distanced himself from the family, ignoring them in times of crisis.


    Even family bloodlines could be like this, let alone friends from the outside world.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an and his Li Ergou returned to Feiyue Manor.


    Lan Chang''an needed to return Mu Xiuyun¡¯s flying boat, so he went to Moonheart Ind.


    Moonheart Ind was where the high-level family members cultivated, and this was Lan Chang''an¡¯s first time there.


    He sent out a sound transmission.


    Before long, Mu Xiuyun, in a in dress, flew out of a cave-dwelling on the ind.


    Because she had taken the Beauty Pill, Mu Xiuyun looked to be in her twenties, radiant and with skin like jade, almost wrinkle-free.


    After returning the flying boat, Lan Chang''an proposed to resign from his position as the Chief Talisman Master at the market¡¯s talisman shop.


    Because, Lan Chang''an estimated he would advance to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining within two years and then leave the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake.


    "The talisman shopcks senior talisman masters. Stay for a few more years, and I¡¯ll apply for a Bottleneck-Breaking Pill for you, how about that?"


    She pursed her red lips, her starry eyes showing a hint of anticipation.


    "No need, Mu Ershun and Mu Shan are almost capable of taking on the responsibility. The shop¡¯s stock of rare talismans is enough for several years." Lan Chang''an bowed and took his leave.


    Watching his departing white-robed figure, Mu Xiuyun realized something, her beautiful face showing a trace of sadness, standing there for a long time.


    ...


    Feiyue Manor.


    Lan Chang''an returned to his oldkeside courtyard.


    Activating the formation restrictions, he immediately began secluded cultivation.


    Though he called it secluded cultivation, he only needed to cultivate for one or two hours a day, slightly less effective than at Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    One or two years passed quickly.


    One day, a strong surge of magical power erupted from thekeside residence, resonating with the heavens and the earth.


    Ordinary formations couldn¡¯t conceal it.


    "Seventhyer of Qi-Refining?"


    The family cultivators living nearby sensed it.


    "Who has newly advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining?"


    "It seems to be Talisman Master Lan!"


    "Lan Chang''an, it¡¯s actually him?"


    Many cultivators looked towards Lan Chang''an¡¯s residence.


    The seventhyer of Qi-Refining might be unremarkable in the sect, but in a Foundation Establishment family, it counted as mid-to-high level.


    If one''s seniority was a bit deeper, at the eighth level of Qi Refining, one could be included in the Elder level of the Mu Family.


    The older Mu Family cultivators weren¡¯t surprised by Lan Chang''an¡¯s advancement to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    After all, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯tcking in qualifications, had been diligently cultivating for years, and had resources from his talisman-making to support him.


    Advancing to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining was a culmination of long preparation.


    ...


    "Forty-five years old, seventhyer of Qi-Refining!"


    Inside thekeside house, Lan Chang''an felt the substantial increase in his Evergreen magical power, his heart filled with excitement.


    "In this third life, I¡¯ve finally passed the most vulnerable stage."


    He felt ted, letting out a long howl.


    The seventhyer of Qi-Refining marked thete stage of Qi-Refining.


    It wasn¡¯t just a significant increase in magical power. Combined with the umtions of his previous two lives, his actualbat power had more than doubled.


    For example, Lan Chang''an''s current spiritual sense was almostparable to the early stage of Foundation Establishment, and it could be released outward for twenty zhang (about 66 meters).


    This was thanks to the feedback and enhancement of his soul by the Nine Seal Stele.


    With his current strength, possessingte-stage body refining attainments, a peak first-rank spirit pet, powerful talismans, and other trump cards, he had the means to survive even against an ordinary early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    This was why Lan Chang''an nned to leave the Mu Family after reaching the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    Other than nning for an opportunity to reach Foundation Establishment, he was now at the point where he could travel around in the lower level of the cultivation world and didn''t need to rely heavily on the Mu Famil''s spiritual veins.


    Late-stage Qi-Refining and a superior-grade first-rank talisman master.


    In the various marketces of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, he could livefortably.


    All major Foundation Establishment families would be willing to hire him as a guest elder.


    His status and position were slightly lower than that of Alchemist Ge, but his actual strength was much higher.


    We are nearing the end of this volume.

 Chapter 51: Foundation Establishment Celebration

    Chapter 51: Foundation Establishment Celebration


    Three dayster, Lan Chang''an emerged from his seclusion.


    At Feiyue Manor, many family members came to congratte him, even bringing gifts.


    "Big brother, congrattions!"


    The first to arrive was Li Ergou from next door, apanied by his two wives and several children.


    "Congrattions, Uncle Lan. Your magical power has grown by leaps and bounds." The adults and children congratted him together, making it a lively scene.


    Lan Chang''an could see that Li Ergou felt a bit disappointed.


    After all, a few years ago, Li Ergou had advanced significantly by receiving generous rewards and breakthrough pills for having children, once surpassing Lan Chang''an by a significant margin. But now, Lan Chang''an had reached the seventhyer of Qi-Refining first.


    Of course, Li Ergou was genuinely happy for him.


    Lan Chang''an hadn''t married or had children, and with his superior aptitude, his dedicated cultivation to reach this point was understandable."Talisman Master Lan, this is a letter from your spirit pigeon." While the two were talking, a family messenger brought a letter. The letter bore the familiar symbol of Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an opened the letter, and a smile gradually appeared on his face.


    "Big brother, what''s the news?" Li Ergou guessed.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao has sessfully established her foundation! She invites us to Jin Yun Valley for a small celebration." Lan Chang''an''s tone was filled with satisfaction.


    "Foundation Establishment!"


    Despite his expectations, Li Ergou couldn''t help but be amazed and took a deep breath.


    This was a level he didn''t dare to dream of, a status reserved for the ancestors of the family.


    In terms of status, Zhao Siyao surpassed even the Foundation Establishment ancestors of the Mu Family.


    ...


    From the direction of Feiyue Lake, there was a sound of the air breaking apanied by the spiritual pressure of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Greetings, Ancestor."


    "Greetings, Family Head."


    "Greetings, Elder."


    Three figures, two men and one woman,nded in Lan Chang''an''s courtyard, and the surrounding Mu Family cultivators bowed.


    The visitors were Mu Renlong, Mu Maode, and Mu Xiuyun. One was at Foundation Establishment, and two were at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining. Such a scene was rare at Feiyue Manor.


    "Lan Chang''an, very good. You have sessfully advanced to thete stage of Qi-Refining without using breakthrough pills."


    Mu Renlong, in a ck robe, looked at him with a piercing gaze, exuding a powerful aura.


    "It was just a stroke of luck," Lan Chang''an said modestly.


    He had progressed steadily, breaking through small realms without the aid of breakthrough pills, which was quite normal. Being at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining at forty-five wasn''t something to brag about.


    "Lan Chang''an, this is our gift to you." Mu Maode, expressionless, handed over a storage bag.


    "Chang''an, congrattions." Mu Xiuyun, in a long green dress, elegant and serene, softly spoke. Then she fell silent, standing quietly aside.


    Today''s grand scene suggested that Mu Xiuyun had likely revealed the possibility of Lan Chang''an leaving the family.


    This was understandable. Although Mu Xiuyun had feelings for Lan Chang''an, her loyalty ultimatelyy with her family. She also wanted to keep Lan Chang''an.


    "Lan Chang''an, let''s go inside and talk." Mu Renlong spoke, leading the way into the house.


    Lan Chang''an nced at Mu Xiuyun and then calmly followed, closing the door behind him.


    With the restriction set by the Foundation Establishment cultivator, no one knew what the two discussed.


    During this time, Mu Xiuyun bit her lip, her eyes filled with both hope and worry. Mu Maode''s face was gloomy, and he said nothing.


    A momentter.


    Mu Renlong and Lan Chang''an emerged one after the other.


    "Let''s go." Mu Renlong, expressionless and without exnation, left with Mu Maode and Mu Xiuyun.


    Mu Xiuyun hesitated, her delicate face paling slightly, as she climbed onto the flying boat in a daze.


    The wind howled.


    She watched the white-d man shrink smaller and smaller in the courtyard. Finally, as if making a decision, her eyes brightened with determination, her hair half-covering her face, she gave Lan Chang''an onest look.


    ...


    Seeing Mu Xiuyun''s final gaze, Lan Chang''an instead developed a trace of appreciation. He sensed Mu Xiuyun''s firm Dao heart.


    In the world of cultivation, the path of cultivation was fundamental.


    Everything else was transient, either fleeting clouds or passing travelers. A qualified female cultivator would never be obsessed with love. Letting go of a rtionship might be painful, but it wasn''t difficult.


    "Big brother, what did the ancestor discuss with you?" Li Ergou couldn''t help but ask.


    He spected that with Lan Chang''an''s current cultivation and talisman skills, the Mu Family would offer generous terms to retain him.


    Apart from the first two or three years when he had just joined the Mu Family, Lan Chang''an had always had a cooperative rtionship with the family.


    For over twenty years, he had crafted countless talismans for the Mu Family, generating immense benefits and potential value.


    Although he had also reaped considerable profits during this period, it was his talisman skills that earned him these gains.


    Overall, even if Lan Chang''an ended the cooperation, he wouldn''t owe the Mu Family anything.


    The Mu Family understood this well. Unless the Mu Family was a family that favored the Devil''s Path, there was no reason to forcefully retain him.


    Even a superior-grade talisman master didn''t hold strategic value to warrant restrictive measures. Moreover, the Mu Family didn''tck talisman talent; what they truly needed were experienced alchemists.


    Mu Renlong offered Lan Chang''an two conditions.


    First, be a family elder, with treatment only slightly inferior to the previous Master Ge.


    Second, marry into the family and wed the eldest daughter, bing part of the Mu Family.


    Mu Renlong, domineering by nature, exerted subtle pressure but didn''t truly force him. Even if he had, Lan Chang''an wasn''t afraid now.


    Lan Chang''an took out Zhao Siyao''s letter and politely stated that he would attend his friend''s "Foundation Establishment Celebration" and consider the offer afterward.


    Upon learning that Lan Chang''an had a good rtionship with a sect Foundation Establishment cultivator, Mu Renlong''s tone softened considerably and he praised him.


    Mu Renlong expressed that if Lan Chang''an ever wanted to return, the Mu Family would always wee him.


    Lan Chang''an expressed his gratitude for the Mu Family''s past support and promised to remember this favor. Thus, the two sides amicably ended their cooperation.


    ...


    The next day.


    Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou left Feiyue Manor to attend Zhao Siyao''s Foundation Establishment Celebration.


    Upon learning of this, the Mu Family elders specially prepared a gift for Li Ergou. Otherwise, with Li Ergou''s financial resources, he wouldn''t have been able to present anything substantial.


    After leaving the Mu Family''s territory.


    Lan Chang''an no longer kept a low profile and took out the flying boat he had seized years ago as spoils of war.


    "Let''s go!"


    Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou boarded the flying boat and headed for Jin Yun Valley.


    The Zheng Family from back then no longer existed in the vicinity, and with Lan Chang''an''s current cultivation and strength, using a flying boat was nothing significant.


    Li Ergou assumed that Lan Chang''an had bought it himself and didn''t ask further.


    "Big brother Lan, now that Zhao Siyao has sessfully established her foundation and you''ve advanced to thete stage of Qi-Refining, I wonder how long I''ll have to endure at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining."


    On the way, Li Ergou was downcast.


    "Adjust your mindset and go out to experience the world." Lan Chang''an smiled at him. Sometimes, once a cultivator developed a mental barrier, the bottleneck would only get deeper and deeper.


    "Ever since I changed my name, my cultivation and everything else have been going downhill." Li Ergou sighed. Before he changed his name to Li Changqing, he thrived in the Mu Family, even obtaining breakthrough pills.


    Since advancing to the fourthyer of Qi-Refining, he proudly changed his name, but then he broke his leg on the front line, and his cultivation progress slowed down.


    In recent years, his children had caused him much worry, and his rtionships with his wives and concubines were on the cold side.


    "Big brother, should I change my name back?" Li Ergou asked abruptly.


    In the cultivation world, there was no such thing as superstition.


    Concepts like feng shui, luck, and fate have existed since ancient times, and even some great cultivators believed in them.


    "What name do you want to use?"


    "I don''t want to go back to Ergou; it sounds too bad. Big brother, can you give me a name?" Li Ergou pleaded.


    Lan Chang''an pondered and said, "Changqing(Evergreen) is a name that your aptitude and fate may not be able to handle."


    He had inquired: thest Core Formation cultivator in the Liang Kingdom with the Dao name Evergreen only lived for more than two hundred years before dying.


    "Why not call yourself Li Erqing?"


    "Li Erqing? Good, good! I like that name." Li Ergou''s face shook with joy, finding it very suitable as itbined his previous names.


    "From now on, I''ll be called Li Erqing." Li Ergou made a hasty decision just like that.


    ...


    Ten dayster.


    The flying boatnded in front of Jin Yun Valley''s mountain gate.


    Lan Chang''an presented his token, asking the gatekeeper disciple to pass it on.


    Half an hourter.


    A light of cloud and mist flew out from the mountain gate, apanied by the spiritual pressure of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Senior Zhao!"


    The gatekeeper disciple quickly bowed, d that he hadn''t made things difficult just now.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Fellow Daoist Li." A beautiful female cultivator in a flowing fairy dress, Zhao Siyao, descended in front of Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou.


    After establishing her foundation, Zhao Siyao exuded an extraordinary aura, her beauty captivating.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao."


    Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou cupped their hands in greeting.


    Zhao Siyao waved her hand, letting the two step onto her cloud light and enter Jin Yun Valley.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, congrattions on your Foundation Establishment. This is our congrattory gift." Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou handed over gift boxes.


    Zhao Siyao epted the gifts with a bitter smile, looking at Lan Chang''an:


    "Back then, when I became a core disciple and went to the ck Fog Mountain Range for training, Fellow Daoist Lan helped me a lot. This time, I wanted to surprise you, but I didn''t expect Fellow Daoist Lan to have already advanced to thete stage of Qi-Refining."


    "Surprise? Could it be the breakthrough pill?"


    "It is precisely this item."


    Zhao Siyao took out a jade bottle containing the breakthrough pill for thete stage of Qi-Refining.


    "Today, this Bottleneck-Breaking Pill will be a return gift to Changqing. I''ll find something suitable for you next time." She then handed the jade bottle to Li Ergou.


    Back then, when Zhao Siyao waspeting for the core disciple position, Li Ergou had helped with tasks in the mortal world, contributing as well.


    Li Ergou epted the breakthrough pill with immense joy:


    "Thank you, Fellow Daoist Zhao! By the way, I''m not called Changqing anymore; I''m called Li Erqing!"

 Chapter 52: Out of Place

    Chapter 52: Out of ce


    In the cultivation families, if someone reaches the Foundation Establishment stage, a "Foundation Establishment Ceremony" is often held to demonstrate the family''s strength. However, in a sect, doing so would be inappropriate; the Foundation Establishment stage is at most considered a mid-level position.


    A newly promoted Foundation Establishment cultivator celebrates on a smaller scale, inviting close friends within the sect, calling it a "small Foundation Establishment celebration."


    A streak of light carried three people through the clouds, approaching the heart of the Jin Yun Valley, andnding halfway up a mountain.


    "A second-grade high-quality spiritual vein environment." Lan Chang''an sensed the pure and dense spiritual energy, which was even better than the Moonheart Ind where the Mu Family ancestor resided.


    Zhao Siyao''s small Foundation Establishment celebration was held in her cave dwelling.


    The cave covered several acres, with a main hall towering five or six zhang high, and gardens, medicinal fields, clear pools, and quiet rooms spread throughout.


    At this moment, the main hall gathered twenty or thirty cultivators, most of them from the Jin Yun Valley judging by their attire.


    Upon entering,


    Li Ergou turned pale, sweat beaded on his forehead, and he almost copsed to the ground.Just in the cave, there were six or seven Foundation Establishment cultivators!


    Zhao Siyao personally weed the two, attracting curious and scrutinizing gazes from many cultivators.


    Even though these Foundation Establishment cultivators did not deliberately exude their aura, the pressure of so many gazes was unbearable for an ordinary Qi-Refining stage cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an deliberately increased his breathing, showing some nervousness and pressure.


    Li Ergou was dumbfounded; it was rare for him to see a Foundation Establishment cultivator, and now so many appeared at once.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Fellow Daoist Li, please take a seat. There''s no need to be restrained; these are all my fellow sect members." Zhao Siyao said with a smile, easing their pressure.


    "Sister Zhao, who are these guests?" a man in wide robes and at the Foundation Establishment Realm asked.


    "Lan Chang''an, Li Erqing, cultivators from the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake, have been friends with me for many years. I received their help in reaching the Foundation Establishment Realm." Zhao Siyao introduced. After hearing Zhao Siyao''s introduction, the interest of the sect cultivators waned instantly. Some had amused smiles on their lips.


    Someone chuckled lightly, "Sister Zhao, even after advancing to Foundation Establishment, you remember your old friends, such purity and character are admirable."


    Li Ergou was ufortable. Although it was praise, it didn''t feel right. Those sect cultivators did not show any mockery or sarcasm. Yet Li Ergou inexplicably felt like he was being treated as a country bumpkin.


    "Eat and drink well, this is not our world." Lan Chang''an''s voice came through, his expression calm, taking a light sip of spiritual tea, with no intention of interacting with anyone.


    Li Ergou felt much better after hearing this.


    The cultivators attending Zhao Siyao''s small celebration were at least inner disciples or Foundation Establishment seniors.


    Such a circle waspletely different from ordinary family cultivators. But as long as one didn''t try to squeeze into this circle, then there was no need to be restrained as if walking on thin ice.


    Lan Chang''an listened intently, gathering some information from the conversations of the sect''s disciples.


    In the cave, there was a plump female cultivator in a colorful dress, at the mid-Foundation Establishment Realm, highly respected by the other cultivators.


    She was Zhao Siyao''s senior sister, her specific name unknown. Everyone called her "Senior Sister Qiao."


    Beside Sister Qiao sat a chubby male cultivator, squinting his small eyes, asionally ncing at the elegant and cool Zhao Siyao, not daring to look directly at her.


    The chubby male cultivator was named "Jiao Lechi," at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, the grandson of Zhao Siyao''s Fake-Dan master, and also taken into the sect.


    When Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou first arrived, Jiao Lechi seemed interested.


    The fat-headed Li Ergou was ignored by him but Lan Chang''an''s appearance and temperament were not bad, earning a few more nces from the chubby male cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang is also here?"


    A robust, slightly dark-skinned youth entered the cave, greeted cordially by many inner disciples. Even the Foundation Establishment cultivators nodded slightly.


    It was Zhang Tieshan.


    Two years ago, Lan Chang''an had a conversation with him in Lin Yi''s tomb.


    Zhang Tieshan''s presence at the celebration surprised some cultivators, as he was not very familiar with Zhao Siyao before.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang."


    Zhao Siyao stood up to return the greeting and, to take care of Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou, specifically arranged Zhang Tieshan to sit beside them.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, we haven''t met in two years, and your cultivation has improved again." Zhang Tieshan said with a smile on his usually stern face.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang is too kind, it was just a stroke of luck."


    After greeting each other, the two sat next to each other and started chatting.


    Seeing this, some sect disciples looked surprised.


    Zhang Tieshan was not an ordinary inner disciple; he was favored by an elder from an outer peak and now held a position in the Law Enforcement Hall.


    Zhang Tieshan hated evil with a passion, was strong inbat, and there were a handful of the sect''s most wanted criminals who had died at his hands.


    "Brother Zhang, it seems you are injured?" Lan Chang''an noticed that Zhang Tieshan''s spiritual energy was somewhat chaotic and his arm seemed stiff.


    "I recently fought with a rather vicious rogue cultivator. That person had a flying eagle spirit beast that came and went as it pleased, I couldn''t catch him." Zhang Tieshan didn''t hide the truth and exined the situation.


    "A flying eagle spirit beast? Could it be the Evil-faced Flying Eagle?" Lan Chang''an was moved.


    Back then, Mu Xiuyun almost died at the hands of the Evil-faced Flying Eagle.


    "That''s right! This person''s strength far surpasses ordinary ninthyer of Qi-Refining cultivators, cunning and adept at disguise. If he sessfully reaches the Foundation Establishment Realm, he will be a great threat." Zhang Tieshan frowned deeply, not hiding the killing intent in his eyes.


    He continued, "Two years ago, the evil cultivator responsible for Lin Yi''s death was one of the Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s subordinates."


    Lan Chang''an was moved; no wonder those evil cultivators were so daring, ambushing sect disciples, they were backed by the Evil-faced Flying Eagle.


    "I heard that Fellow Daoist Lan ranked third on the Illusion Heart tform back then?" Zhang Tieshan asked curiously.


    "That''s right, butpared to Daoist Zhang''s first ce, it''s not worth mentioning."


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself, if he had solved the mystery of his awakening a moment earlier, the first ce on the Illusion Heart tform would have been his and Zhang Tieshan might not have achieved his current status.


    "I see that Fellow Daoist Lan''s magical power is pure, with solid foundations and aposed demeanor. The Jin Yun Valley missed out on a good talent." Zhang Tieshan said with appreciation, looking at Lan Chang''an with new respect.


    "Daoist Zhang, please don''t tter me." Lan Chang''an''s eyelid twitched; Zhang Tieshan''s straightforwardness in saying such things, even in private conversation, was quite blunt.


    The implication was that the sect had misjudged him.


    Zhang Tieshan knew that Lan Chang''an was low-key and didn''t like being in the spotlight, so he smiled and changed the subject.


    During their conversation, Lan Chang''an learned that Zhang Tieshan came from a family of cksmiths, had a good talent for refining, and was a first-rank superior-grade refiner, capable of crafting mid-grade magical weapons.


    This made Lan Chang''an consider befriending Zhang Tieshan.


    Halfway through the celebration, Zhang Tieshan took out a jade pendant and, after receiving some information, took his leave.


    Not long after Zhang Tieshan left,


    A ninth-level Qi-Refining chubby cultivator, with small squinting eyes and a smile, took his seat at Zhang Tieshan''s small table.


    It was Jiao Lechi, the grandson of the Fake-Dan master.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you are one of Siyao''s close friends, don''t feel neglected. I, Jiao, will entertain you on behalf of my senior sister." Jiao Lechi was old-fashioned and took out a wine pot, beckoning for the waitress to pour the wine.


    All three had their cups filled with spirit wine.


    "Come! Let''s drink together." Jiao Lechi drank boldly, downing his cup in one go.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t worry about being poisoned and drank it all. It was pure spirit wine, of considerable value, but with a strong kick. Li Ergou, who had never drunk such good wine, turned a bit flushed.


    "Today is Senior Sister''s small celebration, drink more." Jiao Lechi warmly encouraged drinking, always smiling, his small eyes almost closing.


    Li Ergou couldn''t handle his drink; with only mid stage Qi-Refining, a few cups and he was done.


    Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen mana could dissolve even the most potent toxins, let alone a bit of alcohol. But he still showed some signs of intoxication.


    "Fellow Daoist Li, how did you be acquainted with Senior Sister Siyao?"


    "When Senior Sister reached Foundation Establishment, you must have helped a lot, right? I am very curious..." Jiao Lechi subtly probed, especially targeting the Li Ergou who had low alcohol tolerance.


    Li Ergou, though drunk, wasn''t stupid.


    Not daring to offend this sect scion, he answered ambiguously.


    "Brother Jiao! Daoist Li can''t handle his drink, let¡¯s not force it." Zhao Siyao noticed and stopped it, giving Lan Chang''an an apologetic look.


    Jiao Lechi smiled awkwardly and left.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, the sect doesn''t allow outsiders to stay overnight. So we will take out leave first." Lan Chang''an said after Li Ergou sobered up.


    Zhao Siyao did not insist, seeing that the two were out of ce here.


    She sighed inwardly. No wonder the sect¡¯s disciples were divided into distinct circles.


    The Foundation Establishment Realm cultivators had their own circles, which were difficult for ordinary disciples to join. As for the ordinary cultivators outside the sect, they could forget about joining the circles of the sect¡¯s disciples.


    If Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou kept falling behind in cultivation, as time passed, they would inevitably drift away from her.


    This wasn''t up to her will.


    ¡­


    At sunset, outside the Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an and Li Ergou left on a flying boat.


    On the way, Li Ergou was unusually silent.


    Lan Chang''an knew that this Foundation Establishment celebration had impacted Li Ergou''s mind.


    In the family, Li Ergou held a high position and livedfortably.


    Attending this sect celebration, almost no one paid attention to him.


    Anyone here could destroy him with a snap of his fingers. The way those people looked at him was no different from looking at a stray dog.


    "Come, big brother will take you somewhere."


    Lan Chang''an saw that after Lin Yi''s death and the Foundation Establishment celebration, Li Ergou''s mindset had hit a low point.


    He was about to leave the Mu Family, and he was afraid that it would further impact Li Ergou.

 Chapter 53: Heading North

    Chapter 53: Heading North


    Ten dayster, the flying boat arrived at Five Peaks Market Town in the southern part of Jin Yun Valley.


    In the past, Lan Chang''an had once fenced stolen goods here and helped Zhao Siyao repair a superior-grade magic weapon.


    In terms of scale, Five Peaks Market Town was even bigger than Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an was familiar with the area and went straight to an ancient-looking building with hangingnterns, the tallest building in the vicinity.


    Faint zither music and fragrance wafted from inside.


    "Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion? Big brother! You''re taking me to..." Li Erqing found it hard to believe and stammered, swallowing thest word.


    The big brother in his eyes, who was down-to-earth and was diligent in cultivation and temperate in lifestyle, abstaining from lust, how could hee to such a ce?


    "This is also my first timeing here. I''m just taking you out for some entertainment," said Lan Chang''an calmly.


    After entering the Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion, Li Erqing realized he had misunderstood.This ce was elegant and refined, truly meant for enjoying music and dance performances.


    The first floor was like a theater stage, with a graceful female cultivator in a white veil ying the zither.


    There was no hint of vulgarity, only elegance and nobility. The zither music was like flowing streams and high mountains, dispelling vexations and negative emotions.


    "Honored guests, would you like to be seated on the first floor or go upstairs to a private room?" A middle-aged female cultivator greeted them with a smile.


    Lan Chang''an said, "An upstairs private room, send us a skilled musician." Music was also one of the hundreds of arts of cultivation. A skilled musician could cleanse the heart, help break through mental barriers, and dispel inner demons.


    "Would the honored guest like to have a zither, flute or xiao performance?"


    Zither, flute and xiao were the mostmon instruments for music cultivators.


    "Let''s have a xiao performance, it has a more ethereal atmosphere," said Lan Chang''an, ncing at Li Erqing who had no objection.


    Soon after, a beautiful young woman in a light green dress entered their private room and respectfully bowed.


    This music cultivator was at thete Qi-Refining stage, with higher cultivation than Li Erqing.


    Listening for half a day would cost dozens of spirit stones.


    Of course, such soul-cleansing music performances were extremely taxing on one''s magic power and mental energy.


    Amidst the melodious xiao music that sounded like birds singing in the mountains, the two closed their eyes. Every part of their body and soul seemed to be caressed by a gentle breeze.


    Li Erqing took a short nap.


    He felt the various restlessness and mncholy in his heart dissipating like smoke from a stove.


    "Big brother, are you really leaving the Mu Family? They treat you well there, and there''s also the youngdy..."


    An hourter, after learning that Lan Chang''an was leaving, Li Erqing was briefly shocked, then reluctant to ept it. It took him a while to calm down.


    "Don''t overthink it. My leaving doesn''t mean cutting off ties with all of you. As long as I''m still in the cultivation world of Liang Kingdom, we can still keep in touch." Lan Chang''an reassured him through voice transmission.


    Under the soothing xiao music, although Li Erqing felt the pain of parting, he gradually became at peace with it.


    Lan Chang''an had always been diligently cultivating without taking a wife or having children, so it was evident that he had a firm dao heart and lofty aspirations.


    Such cultivators were not umon in the cultivation world, but those who could sessfully build their foundation were extremely rare. Hard work did not guarantee sess, in any world.


    "Big brother, where are you going?"


    "Huanglong Immortal City."


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an had collected a lot of information and already had a n in mind.


    For wandering cultivators in the Liang Kingdom, the ce with that had the best chance to build one''s foundation was Huanglong Immortal City.


    This Immortal City was established by "Huanglong Immortal", Liang Kingdom''s foremost wandering cultivator, and was adjacent to the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Some of the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill came from the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    This Immortal City was considered the holynd for wandering cultivators, with various forces stationed there, including some second-rank pill cultivators capable of refining Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that when Mu Renlong secretly built his foundation in the past, and the old ancestor of the Mu Family disappeared for a period of time, they must have gone to Huanglong Immortal City.


    Huanglong Immortal City had a Core Formation Immortal presiding over it and was located on a third-grade spiritual vein, so building one''s foundation there won''t be particrly conspicuous.


    In order to speed up building her foundation, Zhao Siyao had also gone to Huanglong Immortal City before, hunting demonic beasts in the ck Fog Mountain Range and gathering spirit herbs to exchange at the sect for contribution points.


    ...


    Half a dayter, Lan Chang''an and Li Erqing left Five Peaks Market Town.


    After the soul-cleansing experience at Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion, Li Erqing''s mood had stabilized and his eyes regained their spirit.


    "Erqing, when you go back, try breaking through your bottleneck without using the breakthrough pill. If it doesn''t work, then you can the pill." On the flying boat, Lan Chang''an instructed him.


    After this experience, Li Erqing''s temperament had settled and his mind had opened up, which would be beneficial for breaking through his bottleneck.


    "I''ll listen to you, big brother." Li Erqing nodded, knowing Lan Chang''an wouldn''t harm him.


    With his experience from his previous life, Lan Chang''an knew that breaking through without relying on Bottleneck-Breaking Pills would give Li Erqing greater potential in the future.


    Half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an steered the flying boat, dropping off Li Erqing at Feiyue Lake before turning towards the northernnds of Liang Kingdom.


    ...


    In front of Feiyue Lake.


    Li Erqing took a deep breath, watching the familiar figure that had apanied him for over twenty years depart into the distance, leaving an emptiness in his heart.


    After returning to the family.


    Following Lan Chang''an''s instructions, Li Erqing bathed, burned incense to adjust his state, and began secluded meditation to break through.


    Ten dayster, Li Erqing broke through his bottleneck and entered the seventhyer of the Qi-Refining realm.


    Unable to contain himself, he let out a long howl. He had been stuck at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining for over a decade before finally making this breakthrough.


    Advancing to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining greatly elevated Li Erqing''s status within the family, and his wives became even more respectful towards him.


    A few dayster, the second wife Mu Caiwei brought good news - their ninth son, only six or seven years old, had been discovered to have a medium-grade spiritual root. Fire spiritual root with a perception level of thirty-five.


    The minimum standard for a high-grade spiritual root was a perception level of forty. This level of talent was close to a high-grade spirit root, not too far behind Zhao Siyao.


    Li Erqing was overjoyed. "Let Jiuane see me." He named all his sons himself. The first son was named Fanfan, the second Ershun, and the ninth son was named Mu Jiuan.


    The boy was fair and delicate-looking, not resembling Li Erqing much.


    Li Erqing preferred his second son Ershun more, whose darker skin and appearance were simr to his own when he was young.


    Naming the ninth son Jiuan was partly for wishing him peace and blessings, and partly out of remembrance for his friendship with Lan Chang''an.


    Coincidentally, Mu Jiuan''s appearance and temperament were a bit like Lan Chang''an''s.


    Since Li Erqing broke through without the help of any breakthrough pills, he secretly kept away the Bottleneck-Breaking Pill from Zhao Siyao.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an steered the flying boat, heading north.


    The area around Jin Yun Valley, including Feiyue Lake, Bamboo Leaf Mountain, and Five Peaks Market Town, were all located in the western part of the Liang Kingdom.


    Five Peaks Market Town was slightly more towards the south, while the Zhou Family renowned for their spirit beasts was further away to the northwest.


    The ck Fog Mountain Range stretched across the northernnds of the Liang Kingdom, spanning half of the Great Qing Realm.


    To be precise, the section of the ck Fog Mountain Range in Liang Kingdom was not the main range, but just a ratherrge branch.


    Huanglong Immortal City was located north of the Liang Kingdom, closely connected to the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    ...


    Four to five monthster.


    A stretch of deste, undting mountains came into Lan Chang''an''s view.


    ording to the map markings in the jade slip, he was now less than a thousand miles away from Huanglong Immortal City.


    Along the way, Lan Chang''an maintained a steady, unhurried pace to conserve his magic power and spiritual sense.


    Long-distance flight was very different from the extreme bursts of speed used by cultivators in battle.


    High-speed flight, one''s fastest speed, consumed tremendous energy - Qi-Refining cultivators could barely sustain it for half an hour.


    The speed difference between the two states was at least several times over.


    After flying a few more hundred miles further, an Immortal City located amidst the mountainous ranges gradually emerged from the mist, like a barbaric beast hiding in the haze.


    asionally, cultivators could be seen flying through the air.


    Most of these cultivators were in the middle orte Qi-Refining stages, with piercing gazes and vignt faces.


    Some of them emanated baneful auras, clearly having killed many people or fought numerous battles in the ck Mist Mountains.


    "I''ve heard the atmosphere around Huanglong Immortal City is rather fierce. The quality of these cultivators is indeed a cut above." Lan Chang''an mused silently.


    Hmm?


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an suddenly sensed fluctuations ofbat.


    In the hills not too far away.


    A group of cultivators were fighting, concealed by a simple formation.


    If not for Lan Chang''an''s powerful spiritual sense, he would not have easily detected it.


    "Kill them all!"


    On one side were twote Qi-Refining stage men, one tall and one fat, wearing bone masks and killing indiscriminately.


    The other side had three cultivators who seemed to be a family.


    A middle-aged couple with a teenage son.


    "Sister Ying, I''ll hold them off. Take Cheng''er and run!" The middle-aged man at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining shouted hoarsely, already severely injured with his magic weapon''s light growing dim and riddled with gaps.


    His wife looked to be in herte thirties, with a shapely figure and cultivation at the fifthyer of Qi-Refining. Their son was sixteen or seventeen, at the thirdyer of Qi-Refining.


    The tall masked man, at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, wielded a pair of curved saber magic weapons, pushing the middle-aged husband into a perilous situation.


    "Tsk tsk, what a beauty! A bit old but with smooth skin and a nice plump ass. If you kneel and submit to me, I might consider sparing your life." the fat masked man leered, at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining. He wielded a medium-grade magic weapon hammer, shattering thest of the woman''s talisman defenses.


    "You scoundrels, hurry it up! Stop letting your filthy thoughts wander." the tall eighthyer masked man berated impatiently.


    "Got it, third brother!"


    The fat masked man sighed regretfully before unleashing his full magic power, his hammer magic weapon smashing the woman''s head into a bloody pulp.


    Amidst agonizing screams, the woman and teenager were consecutively killed by the hammer.


    "Sister Ying! Cheng''er!" The middle-aged man let out a furious death howl, eyes bloodshot.


    "You dare kill and rob so near the Huanglong Immortal City? Sooner orter..."


    The family of three perished. Even if Lan Chang''an had wanted to help, it was already toote.


    He sighed quietly, having no intention of avenging the deaths or upholding justice.


    "Hahaha! What''s a little killing and plundering? We''ve even attacked disciples from Jin Yun Valley before!" Just as they were about to leave, Lan Chang''an heard the fat masked man''s arrogantughter.


    Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred, and his flying boat came to a halt.


    "Kid! What are you looking at?"


    Inside the simple formation, the two masked men noticed Lan Chang''an passing by and stopping. They red at him with vicious, threatening looks.

 Chapter 54: Encounter in the Immortal City

    Chapter 54: Encounter in the Immortal City


    "Are you henchmen of the ''Evil-faced Flying Eagle''? Did you once attack disciples of Jin Yun Valley?" Lan Chang''an ignored the threats of the two men and controlled his flying boat to the simple formation ahead.


    The simple formation only had the effect of concealing sight and magical fluctuations, which couldn''t escape a cultivator''s intentional probing.


    "Kid! You know who we are, yet you dare meddle?" The tall masked man at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining swept his cold, fierce eyes over Lan Chang''an and behind him.


    Like the Evil-faced Flying Eagle, they wore white bone masks for intimidation during their crimes, so it was normal for Lan Chang''an to recognize them.


    Seeing that the two didn''t deny it, Lan Chang''an confirmed that Lin Yi''s death was rted to them.


    A few years ago, disciples of Jin Yun Valley were ambushed, and that was the only urrence of it in recent days. Zhang Tieshan had said the culprits had joined the Evil-faced Flying Eagle.


    "Hand over the flying boat! Consider itpensation, and we won''t pursue your rashness!" The fat masked man chuckled, appearing amiable.


    "The flying boat is here,e and get it if you have the ability." Lan Chang''an sneered andnded inside the concealing formation.


    The other party''s demand for the flying boat meant they didn''t intend to let him leave alive. Without the use of a flying boat, an ordinary Qi-Refining seventhyer cultivator facing two ruthlesste-stage Qi-Refining enemies would be at their mercy."Take him down!"


    The two masked men acted decisively. As soon as Lan Chang''an entered the formation, three magical weapons attacked him.


    The fat man wielded a blood-stained hammer-like magical weapon, which whistled ominously as it smashed towards Lan Chang''an.


    The tall masked man at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining controlled a pair of mid-grade curved de weapons, creating two arcs of cold light in the air.


    One arc blocked Lan Chang''an''s retreat.


    The other shed at his flying boat.


    Their thunderous attacks were well-coordinated and ruthless, leaving no room for escape.


    Lan Chang''an remained unflustered. He summoned a flying shuttle weapon, which shed with a cold light and deflected the hammer.


    The flying shuttle was known for its speed, and although it couldn''tpete directly with the hammer, Lan Chang''an''s powerful spiritual sense allowed for more precise control.


    He then summoned a mid-grade weapon, the Bedrock Shield, to block one of the curved des aimed at his flying boat, resulting in a shower of sparks.


    For the curved deing from behind, Lan Chang''an activated a premium talisman, forming a golden light shield around him.


    ng!


    The curved de struck the shield, causing a tremor but failing to break through, instead being deflected.


    "A premium superior-grade talisman! This kid is quite wealthy." The tall masked man at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining squinted his eyes.


    Just as he was about to intensify his attack, an unexpected change urred.


    Boom!


    The ground under the fat man''s feet copsed, forcing him to hastily activate his mana force shield.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Several sharp stone spikes pierced through the fat man, whose hastily formed shield was as flimsy as paper.


    "Ah! No..."


    The fat man''s body was pinned to the ground by the stone spikes, his vital organs pierced, dying instantly.


    "A peak first-rank monster!"


    A huge, brownish-yellow rat-like monster emerged from the ground, its powerful forelimbs and metallic ws shing at the tall masked man.


    The tall masked man, terrified, was driven into a dangerous situation by the Earth Burrowing Rat, barely able to defend himself with his two curved des.


    A peak first-rank monster had strengthparable to a peak ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator. Even if the two of them teamed up, they might not win.


    Moreover, the rat''s surprise attack from the underground had already killed hispanion.


    Lan Chang''an put away his Bedrock Shield and summoned a ck weapon.


    Whoosh!


    Arge expanding ck created a gray whirlwind, descending from the sky and trapping the tall masked man who tried to fly away.


    The gray whirlwind induced slight dizziness upon contact.


    With attacksing from both the sky and the ground, there was no escape.


    "Ah¡ª¡ª"


    The masked man at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining screamed, his body trapped by the ck as if struck by lightning; soon, the Earth Burrowing Rat tore open his abdomen, spilling his insides.


    From the Earth Burrowing Rat''s attack on the fat man to trapping and killing the tall masked man, it all took only four or five breaths.


    Lan Chang''an put away the Golden de Talisman he had prepared, saving it forter.


    He had nned to resolve the battle within ten breaths.


    Given his current strength, even without using powerful talismans, killing ordinaryte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators was easy.


    Squeak! Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat began to clean the battlefield, collecting spoils. If there were any traps in the bodies, Lan Chang''an wouldn''t need to take the risk.


    The masks of the two corpses cracked, revealing ck diamond-shaped marks on their foreheads, oozing purple-ck liquid.


    "They were nted with restrictions?"


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly, suspecting it was the work of the Evil-faced Flying Eagle.


    He didn''t investigate further, collected several storage bags of spoils, and controlled his flying boat towards Huanglong Immortal City.


    ...


    An hourter.


    A sharp cry pierced the clouds.


    A three-to-four-zhang-wide ck eagle circled above the scene, screeching angrily.


    After a moment.


    A man with shoulders as sharp as knife cuts, wearing a conical hat, arrived before the corpses, leaving afterimages in his wake.


    Had Lan Chang''an been there, he would have recognized that the man was also a Martial Innate Master whobined martial arts movement techniques with immortal techniques.


    "Ate first-rank monster,te-stage Qi-Refining cultivator..." Beneath the conical hat, crimson eyes flickered as the man examined every corner of the scene.


    Then, he looked towards Huanglong Immortal City.


    Crack! Crack!


    The bones in the man''s body made slight cracking sounds as his features and figure began to change.


    He discarded the hat and outer robe.


    He transformed into a handsome young man with red lips and white teeth, stepping onto a flying boat towards Huanglong Immortal City.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an controlled his flying boat at full speed, moving far faster than usual.


    On the way, he used his spiritual sense to inspect several storage pouches, destroying anything suspicious.


    Excluding magical weapons and other items, he collected nearly a thousand spirit stones, a considerable fortune.


    In less than half an hour.


    A majestic crystal-yellow city appeared in his view, the surrounding mountains seeming like small hills inparison.


    Huanglong Immortal City covered an area of several hundreds of miles, and beneath the city there was arge high third-grade spiritual vein as well as several first and second-grade spiritual vein branches.


    The entire city was enveloped by a massive third-rank grand formation, surrounded by white mist and glowing with golden light.


    This kind of grand formation that enveloped a city and guarded a sect was more than ten timesrger than ordinary formations of the same rank, and the resources consumed also increased proportionally.


    The sky was filled with the sound of things breaking through the air: magical weapons, flying boats, spirit birds, and fleeing light, making it feel like entering an immortal world.


    asionally, a Foundation Establishment stage cultivator would break through the sky, and everyone would make way for them without even feeling surprised.


    At the ten-zhang-tall city gate, cultivators came and went continuously.


    Following the crowd, Lan Chang''an entered a side hall at the city gate to register information, pay spirit stones, and obtain an identity token.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t disguise his identity. He had always cultivated quietly and currently had no clear enemies.


    Since he had left the Mu Family, he had no conflicts of interest with the Huang Family.


    Against Foundation Establishment cultivators, any disguise could easily be seen through. For Qi-Refining cultivators, it was unnecessary.


    Another important point.


    Even if Lan Chang''an developed in Huanglong Immortal City, he would still maintain contact with Zhao Siyao of the sect and correspond with Li Ergou.


    To some extent, Zhao Siyao, a Foundation Establishment cultivator in the sect, was his backing.


    The detached Mu Family still retained connections, which might be useful one day.


    Including the genius granddaughter of the Zhou Family, who owed him a favor.


    With no significant enemies and the need to maintain rtionships, there was no need to disguise himself.


    "Huanglong Immortal City is divided into three main parts."


    "One is the outer city, with spiritual energy from a low first-grade spiritual branch. Other than low-level cultivators, it¡¯s also home to the descendants of cultivators and martial artists who seek immortality as well as secr nobles."


    "Second is the inner city, with spiritual energy from first-grade medium and high-quality spiritual veins, depending on the area. Major shops, inns, stations, and residential areas of the immortal city are concentrated here."


    "Third is ''Huanglong Mountain,'' covering dozens of miles, with only certain areas open to the public. The best cave dwellings in the immortal city are on Huanglong Mountain, which can support the spiritual pressure needed for attempting Foundation Establishment."


    ...


    Lan Chang''an had a n in mind.


    Years ago, he had already inquired about the general situation of Huanglong Immortal City.


    ording to unreliable rumors, Huanglong Immortal City was once a sub-altar of a demonic sect a thousand years ago.


    Lan Chang''an had nned to rent a house in the inner city.


    He didn''t choose the outer city, which was considered a slum, with low standards and poor spiritual energy.


    In theory, Lan Chang''an could afford to rent a cave in Huanglong Mountain long-term, where the spiritual energy environment and security were the best, just within his means.


    However, even better spiritual energy environments, such as second-grade spirit veins, couldn''t change the passage of time. For Lan Chang''an, the spiritual energy environment just needed to be sufficient.


    Huanglong Mountain had one drawback that he had to avoid. It was the core of Huanglong Immortal City, where Core Formation and Fake-Dan Immortal cultivators resided.


    If he lived under the watchful eyes of those immortals, with a casual sweep of their spiritual sense all his secrets could be seen through, leaving no personal privacy.


    ...


    Entering the inner city, Lan Chang''an passed by severalrge shops following the crowd.


    He nned to find a broker to rent a house.


    "Lan Chang''an?"


    Walking down a street, Lan Chang''an heard someone calling him, the voice hoarse and old.


    Lan Chang''an turned to see a pair of grandparents.


    The one calling him was a slightly hunchbacked old Taoist Master, at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining, with cloudy old eyes showing surprise and uncertainty as he looked at Lan Chang''an.


    "Are you...Taoist Guan?"


    From the old Taoist''s wrinkled face, Lan Chang''an barely recognized him, eximing in surprise.

 Chapter 55: Planning For Foundation Establishment

    Chapter 55: nning For Foundation Establishment


    Lan Chang''an never expected to encounter his guide to the path of immortality in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Before the awakening of his memories in this life, Lan Chang''an met a destitute and injured wandering cultivator, Taoist Master Guan, on the territory of the Angry River Gang.


    With his guidance, he embarked on the path of immortality andter went to participate in the assessment at Jin Yun Valley.


    Back then when Lan Chang''an returned to the Angry River Gang to see his adoptive father and inquired about Taoist Guan''s whereabouts, he learned that two months after the sect''s assessment, Master Guan had left without saying goodbye.


    Since then, he had lost all contact.


    "Lan Chang''an, is it really you?" Master Guan''s tone was excited, his white beard slightly trembling as he approached.


    Nearly thirty years had passed, and Master Guan had aged considerably, now nearing eighty and at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Behind Master Guan stood a delicate girl, around thirteen or fourteen, with timid eyes that curiously studied Lan Chang''an.


    "This is the poor Taoist''s adopted disciple in Huanglong Immortal City, named Guan Qiaozhi." When looking at the girl, Master Guan''s gaze became much gentler."Good day, Brother Lan." Guan Qiaozhi greeted obediently.


    Hearing his disciple''s address, Master Guan stroked his beard andughed:


    "Qiaozhi, don''t be deceived by Lan Chang''an''s youthful appearance; his actual age is probably older than your biological father''s."


    "Ah!" Guan Qiaozhi covered her mouth in surprise, her cheeks flushing red.


    Lan Chang''an secretly thought: Taoist Master Guan doesn''t trust me; he''s exposing me to his disciple as soon as we meet.


    Of course, what Taoist Master Guan said was true. Lan Chang''an had advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining at the age of forty-five and would be forty-six in six months.


    "You can call me Senior Brother Lan."


    Faced with the somewhat "shocked" young girl, Lan Chang''an kindly suggested.


    "Senior Brother Lan." Guan Qiaozhi said crisply, bowing slightly.


    Seeing this, Taoist Master Guan looked at Lan Chang''an with relief, his words bing a bit closer.


    In the world of cultivation, there is a saying:


    The guide to the path of immortality is as significant as a master or a father to a cultivator.


    How important is an opportunity of immortality?


    From mortal to immortal, transforming oneself is a debt of rebirth, often involving karma. Therefore, cultivators usually respect their guides to immortality.


    Of course, some cultivators are cold-hearted and indifferent, ignoring their guides once they achieve sess in their cultivation.


    There are even cases where grievances lead to killing one''s guide.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an and Guan Qiaozhi treated each other as brother and sister, acknowledging the grace of Master Guan as their immortal guide.


    ...


    In Huanglong Immortal City, at Qinxiang Pavilion.


    Lan Chang''an treated Master Guan and his disciple to a feast of spiritual food, eating and chatting in a private room.


    "Chang''an, there''s no need to be so extravagant. Even though you''re a top-notch talisman master, you shouldn''t waste resources. Save some spirit stones for future needs."


    The wrinkles on Master Guan''s old face seemed to smooth out slightly, and he was happy from the bottom of his heart to receive Lan Chang''an''s recognition and hospitality.


    Through their conversation, Master Guan learned about Lan Chang''an''s experiences over the years and was filled with emotion.


    Master Guan had been somewhat disappointed when Lan Chang''an didn''t get into Jin Yun Valley.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an was doing well now.


    At the seventhyer of Qi-Refining and a superior-grade talisman master, with a little effort, he could live a good life in the vast Huanglong Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an learned about Master Guan''s experiences over the years.


    Master Guan had been hunted and injured, escaping to the Angry River Gang''s territory.


    After recovering, he found out that Lan Chang''an hadn''t passed the sect''s assessment, so to avoid his enemies, he went to the northern part of Liang State.


    Twenty years ago, he arrived in Huanglong Immortal City, the holynd for wandering cultivators.


    At that time, Master Guan was in his fifties, hoping to make onest effort on the path to immortality.


    When he arrived in Huanglong Immortal City, he realized the harshpetition among the bottom level wandering cultivators.


    Without outstanding cultivation or skills, he spent the first ten years struggling in the outer city with little sess, his cultivation stuck at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining, and his future bleak.


    ...


    Guan Qiaozhi was an orphan adopted by Master Guan, whose biological parents had passed away. Fortunately, she possessed a spiritual root.


    With no hope of immortality and not much time left, Master Guan had the idea of finding a sessor. Although he called her his disciple, he actually treated Guan Qiaozhi as a daughter or granddaughter.


    Guan Qiaozhi had a low-grade spiritual root, and very ordinary qualifications, but was skillful and talented in handling animal hides and making talisman paper.


    Master Guan was adept at making vermillion ink, and with Guan Qiaozhi''s talisman paper, they sold materials for drawing talismans.


    A small business, earning a living with their craft.


    "Taoist Master Guan, I remember you have some knowledge of talismans. Why didn''t you pursue the path of a talisman master?" Lan Chang''an asked curiously.


    "Sigh, the threshold for talisman masters is low. In Huanglong Immortal City, it''s hard for a low-grade talisman master to make a living, barely earning any spirit stones. Even mid-grade talisman masters don''t fare much better. Only superior-grade ones, being fewer, can earn a stable ie."


    Master Guan sighed.


    He had indeed studied talismans, but due to his limited talent, he was only a low-grade talisman master, making less money than a craftsman.


    "Huanglong Immortal City, as a holynd for wandering cultivators, is indeedpetitive." Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly, gaining a deeper understanding of the harsh conditions for low-level cultivators in this city, more intense than thepetition he faced in his first life as a wandering cultivator.


    As they talked.


    Guan Qiaozhi''s bright eyes fixed on the spiritual delicacies on the table. She was a bit restrained, taking small bites, but never stopping.


    Unknowingly.


    A pile of leftovers umted in front of her. When she realized it, her face turned red with embarrassment, her bright eyes turning, quietly ncing at Lan Chang''an.


    "Please excuse us. Qiaozhi and I only moved to the inner city in recent years. This is our first time at a high-ss spiritual restaurant like Qinxiang Pavilion." Master Guan was quite frank.


    This spiritual feast cost dozens of spirit stones, with ingredients from demonic beasts and spiritual nts.


    Eating such a meal provided some benefits to both the physical body and cultivation.


    Lan Chang''an smiled and said, "Being able to live in the inner city is already not easy. I haven''t been to such a high-ss restaurant many times either."


    ...


    Knowing that Master Guan lived in the inner city, Lan Chang''an inquired about the real estate market and rental situation.


    "Chang''an, are you looking to rent a house in the inner city?"


    After understanding Lan Chang''an''s needs, Master Guan pondered:


    "There is a house with a courtyard for rent in our Jinxiu Lane, which meets your requirements, but it''s a bit pricey."


    "Oh?"


    Lan Chang''an was somewhat interested and asked about the house.


    Jinxiu Lane was one of the sixteen residential areas in the inner city, ranking mid-level.


    The spiritual energy environment was between first-grade mid and high spiritual veins.


    This aspect was slightlycking for Lan Chang''an, but his cultivation speed was mainly limited by time, so it didn''t matter much.


    The house had two aspects that satisfied Lan Chang''an.


    One was that it was a standalone house with a courtyard, offering good privacy.


    The other was its stability; the house was not privately owned but belonged to Huanglong Immortal City. Once the lease contract was signed, he could stay there long-term.


    ...


    Not in a hurry, Lan Chang''an decided to visit Jinxiu Lane with Master Guan and his disciple.


    Entering a somewhat secluded street.


    Lan Chang''an first visited Master Guan''s residence.


    Master Guan''s rented house was rtively small, just over a hundred square meters, privately owned, and reasonably priced.


    The downside was it had no courtyard and shared walls with other houses. Essentially, it was a part of arge mansion that was divided into several rental units.


    The house Master Guan mentioned was diagonally opposite, about twenty or thirty meters away.


    It was a quiet, unupied courtyard house, covering about half an acre, quite good for Huanglong Inner City.


    "Who lives in the adjacent courtyard?"


    Lan Chang''an noticed arger courtyard house to the left of the one he was considering, with grand buildings and two first-rank superior-grade formations, asionally visited by cultivators.


    When renting a house, understanding the neighbors'' situation is important.


    "That is Alchemist Du Wei''s mansion!"


    "Du Wei is a first-rank superior-grade alchemist, studying under the renowned ''Alchemist Hua'' of the city. If it weren''t for his many wives and children needing arger space as amodation, he would likely live in a better spiritual environment." Master Guan looked at the grand house with a serious and respectful tone.


    "The cultivators visiting him are either seeking alchemy services or trying to connect with his master, Alchemist Hua."


    "Oh, what rank of alchemist is Alchemist Hua?" Lan Chang''an''s interest was piqued.


    "A second-rank middle-grade alchemist."


    "A skilled teacher indeed, no wonder he lives in such arge mansion!" Lan Chang''an praised.


    He had already decided to rent the courtyard opposite, even if it was a bit expensive. There was a chance to form connections with a second-rank mid-grade alchemist, and naturally, Lan Chang''an wouldn''t miss such a good opportunity.


    His main purpose ining to Huanglong Immortal City was to n for foundation establishment. Foundation Establishment Pills, apart from being avable atrge auctions, were rarely seen. Such strategic resources were typically not sold by cultivation sects and families.


    At auctions,peting for a Foundation Establishment Pill involved contending with major forces, making it hard to win. Even if lucky enough to win, it could easily make enemies and attract trouble, being too conspicuous for an individual cultivator.


    Aside from auctions, privately contacting second-rank or higher alchemists theoretically allowed for the crafting of Foundation Establishment Pills.


    The biggest challenge was that the primary ingredient and several auxiliary herbs for the Foundation Establishment Pill were rare and monopolized by major forces, making them hard to obtain.


    Even so, this was still a viable path to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill. Since it was a private request, it was much more discreet thanpeting at an auction.


    "Unfortunately, my talent in alchemy is mediocre. Over the years, I''ve only reached the threshold of a first-rank superior-grade alchemist."

 Chapter 56: Thirty Years of Cultivation

    Chapter 56: Thirty Years of Cultivation


    The sky gradually darkened.


    Lan Chang''an declined Master Guan''s invitation to stay overnight in his residence. After all, the living space was notrge, and there was also a young girl present, staying the night would not be quite appropriate.


    Lan Chang''an rested at an inn in the inner city that night.


    The next day, apanied by Master Guan, Lan Chang''an went to a grand hall in the center of the inner city and signed a spirit contract to lease a property.


    The courtyard residence in Jinxiu Lane was leased to Lan Chang''an for ten years at a price of eighty spirit stones per year.


    Since it was a long-term lease, there was a certain discount on the price.


    A total of eight hundred spirit stones, are to be paid annually.


    The price was not cheap; ording to Master Guan, this courtyard had only been vacated half a month ago.


    On the same day, Lan Chang''an moved into the courtyard residence with light luggage."Water Moon Residence, not a bad name." Lan Chang''an nced at the que above the courtyard gate.


    Guan Qiaozhi brought some fresh fruits and vegetables and helped Lan Chang''an clean up the courtyard and remove the weeds.


    Lan Chang''an cast spells to clean the interior of the buildings and also set up two small-scale first-rank formations within the courtyard.


    After a busy day, he was invited to Master Guan''s home for dinner in the evening.


    The young girl was clever and skillful, with decent culinary skills. She added only a few spiritual ingredients to make a meal that was rich in vor and left a lingering aftertaste on one''s tongue.


    Lan Chang''an experienced the benefits of Master Guan taking in a female disciple.


    ...


    Two dayster, after moving into his new residence, Lan Chang''an nned to visit his neighbors on the left and right.


    Especially therge mansion to the left, which was the residence of Alchemist Du Wei.


    In this area, any cultivator able to reside in an independent courtyard mansion was certainly not ordinary.


    Before Lan Chang''an could take action, a neighbor came to visit him first.


    "I heard that a new talisman master neighbor has moved in. This humbledy is here to pay a visit and offer some desserts that I made myself." a gentle and charming female voice came from outside the courtyard gate.


    It was a beautifully dresseddy, around twenty-six or twenty-seven years old, with elegant eyebrows and bright eyes, as lovely as a peach blossom.


    It''s her?


    Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised and opened the formation.


    The beautifully dresseddy was named Su Xuetong and lived alone in an exquisite courtyard residence to the right.


    "Talisman Master Lan, I am Su Xuetong. I hope I have not disturbed you?" Su Xuetong, dressed in a in pce-style dress, appeared demure and elegant, yet her every movement exuded charm and grace.


    "Not at all. How did you know my name, Miss Su?" Lan Chang''an weed Su Xuetong in and epted the box of desserts.


    "I ran into Qiaozhi and heard her mention it in passing." Su Xuetong smiled sweetly, gently swaying her slender waist as she sat down with her legs crossed, every gesture and movement exuding an alluring charm.


    Lan Chang''an would not underestimate the beautiful woman before him.


    A female cultivator living alone in the cultivator city, where talents of all kinds mingled together, was often not as simple as she appeared.


    Not to mention that Su Xuetong possessed charming arts and was concealing her true cultivation base.


    On the surface, she appeared to be at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining. But her true cultivation base was the eighthyer of Qi-Refining. Su Xuetong''s concealment skills were highly refined.


    However, Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense was almost at the early Foundation Establishment Realm, and at such close proximity, he could discern the subtle signs.


    Master Guan had warned Lan Chang''an not to be bewitched by this woman''s beauty. Apparently, ate-stage Qi-Refining cultivator had once coveted Su Xuetong''s beauty and made flirtatious remarks, and even attempted to grope her.


    A few dayster, the corpse of thatte-stage Qi-Refining cultivator was found in a drainage ditch within the city.


    During that period, Su Xuetong had a perfect alibi for her whereabouts.


    There were rumors that Su Xuetong was the mistress of a powerful figure, hidden away in luxury here.


    "Miss Su, please take care." Lan Chang''an chatted briefly with Su Xuetong before she rose to take her leave.


    Su Xuetong only asked about Lan Chang''an''s talisman skills and where he had studied previously.


    Lan Chang''an said that he had only recently be a first-rank superior-grade talisman master and had stayed in a certain market town before, without mentioning the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    Lan Chang''an examined the desserts left behind by Su Xuetong and found nothing suspicious, so he destroyed them.


    ...


    Shortly after, Lan Chang''an went to therge mansion to the left of Water Moon Residence, which was the residence of Alchemist Du Wei.


    The que read "Pill Heart Residence."


    There was an early-stage Qi-Refining old servant at the gate.


    "I am Talisman Master Lan, who has just moved into the neighboring Water Moon Residence, and I have brought a gift to pay a visit to Alchemist Du Wei." Lan Chang''an instructed the old servant to announce his arrival.


    He emphasized bringing a gift because he had heard from Master Guan that Du Wei loved wealth.


    As long as Du Wei was not too busy, he would generally make time to meet visitors who brought gifts.


    "My master happens to be free today." the old servant did not announce Lan Chang''an''s arrival but directly led him into Pill Heart Residence.


    Pill Heart Residence was a two-courtyard mansion, with the main building having three floors, uniquely designed and luxuriously grand.


    In a reception room, Lan Chang''an met the owner.


    Du Wei was a middle-aged man with a thick beard, short in stature and slightly obese, with arge nose and bright, piercing eyes.


    To put it bluntly, he was a short and stout man. Of course, Du Wei was not poor. During this meeting, he was apanied by a voluptuous and charming concubine on each side, who were adept at maintaining their youthful appearances.


    "So it''s Talisman Master Lan" Du Wei smiled warmly as he epted the gift box of talisman cases from Lan Chang''an.


    "May I ask Talisman Master Lu''s age and grade of talisman mastery?"


    During the conversation, Du Wei asked directly.


    "I am almost forty-six years old, a first-rank superior talisman-grade master." Lan Chang''an did not conceal the truth.


    On a first meeting, disying one''s value and capabilities was the first step in a pragmatic social interaction.


    Du Wei''s expression did not fluctuate, nor did he belittle Lan Chang''an.


    In less than an hour, Du Wei raised his teacup, signaling the end of the meeting.


    Lan Chang''an bid farewell and left.


    As fellow first-rank superior-grade masters, an alchemist naturally held a higher status than a talisman master. This disparity was even more pronounced in the Huanglong Immortal City.


    Because of its proximity to the ck Fog Mountain Range, arge number of beast furs circted within the city, providing raw materials for talisman drawing.


    This led to an abundance of talisman masters in the city, especially those of middle and low grades. Superior-grade talisman masters were not overlymon, so they enjoyed a bit morefort.


    Moreover, Du Wei was a disciple of a renowned second-rank alchemist, further elevating his status.


    "Middle-grade talisman? No superior-grade talismans, this Talisman Master Lan may not necessarily seek my assistance." Du Wei opened the talisman case and picked out four middle-grade talismans, casually tossing them onto the table.


    "Take these as a gift for you two!"


    "Thank you, husband." the two beautiful consorts, who were at the early stage of Qi-Refining, were delighted to receive the middle-grade talismans.


    ...


    After leaving Pill Heart Residence, Lan Chang''an smiled slightly. Du Wei''s greed for wealth and lust actually worked in his favor.


    It was better to deal with someone greedy for wealth and lust, than someonepletely inflexible and incorruptible.


    A first-rank superior alchemist was not someone Lan Chang''an needed to fawn over. He wanted to get acquainted with Master Hua, the second-rank middle-grade alchemist behind Du Wei. A second-rank middle-grade alchemist at the Foundation Establishment Realm held a lofty status, so he would need someone to serve as an intermediary.


    "It will take at least another one to two more decades before I can reach Foundation Establishment." Lan Chang''an did not need to rush to seed.


    He estimated it would take eight years to reach the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, and another nine years to reach the ninthyer. From the ninthyer to the peak would also require many years.


    With his long lifespan, he could steadily cultivate without arrogance or impatience, carefully nning things out.


    Humans are not like nts and trees, devoid of feelings. Over the long course of time, he and Du Wei would inevitably develop a rtionship.


    ...


    After visiting Du Wei, Lan Chang''an turned his gaze towards the small courtyard across from Water Moon Residence.


    There was no que on the courtyard gate, and it was two residences away from Master Guan''s home. This courtyard was home to a reclusive puppet master who rarely interacted with others.


    Puppet masters belonged to a rtively obscure branch of cultivation arts. The art had a high threshold and strict requirements for innate talent and spiritual sense.


    The creation of puppets was veryplex, with few inheritors, causing this upation to remain outside the mainstream.


    "The gate is open." a man''s voice came from inside the courtyard after Lan Chang''an exined his purpose for visiting.


    Entering the courtyard, he saw several puppets and scattered puppet parts.


    A muscr, barefooted man with a hunched back was sharpening the ws of a puppet.


    The barefooted man, surnamed Sang, was at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    Upon seeing Lan Chang''an enter, he did not rise to greet him, but continued his work. However, whenever Lan Chang''an spoke, Puppet Master Sang would respond.


    What Lan Chang''an learned through their conversation left him a bit disappointed. Puppet Master Sang could only create first-rank middle-grade puppets.


    A first-rank mid-grade puppet was not even as powerful as Lan Chang''an''s physical body after his body refinement.


    In the hands of ordinary cultivators, puppets could hardly exert the full battle prowess of a cultivator at the same level.


    For low-grade puppets to unleash their true might, a controlling talisman was required, which would consume a portion of the user''s spiritual sense.


    When a Qi-Refining cultivator operated a magical weapon, it would also consume magical power and spiritual sense, naturally limiting the puppet''s disyed strength.


    Moreover, puppets were much more expensive than magical weapons of the same grade.


    Lan Chang''an was an exception, with an extraordinarily powerful spiritual sense far beyond his current level. Unfortunately, the puppets Puppet Master Sang could create did not meet his requirements.


    ...


    After getting acquainted with his neighbors on the left and right, Lan Chang''an officially settled down in the Huanglong Immortal City, Jinxiu Lane, and Water Moon Residence.


    In the blink of an eye, two and a half years passed.


    "Thirty years of cultivation..." On this day, Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, emanating an aura of having experienced the passage of ages.


    The intensity of his Evergreen mana had increased by another chip.


    From the age of eighteen when he awakened his memories in Jin Yun Valley, to his current forty-eight years of age in the Huanglong Immortal City, it had been a full thirty years!


    "In my first life, I was also at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining at this point."


    "In my second life, I reached Foundation Establishment Realm before the age of forty."


    "However, in this life, my foundation is more solid than ever before, my spiritual sense is powerful and refined, and my mental state far surpasses my previous two lives. This is the life with the greatest hope of reaching the Nascent Soul Realm." Lan Chang''an''s heart was calm and unperturbed.


    In the Nine Seal Stele, the white-haired old man at the peak of Core Formation Realm in his second life had illuminated dozens of strands of hair after many years of soul nourishment. He estimated that it would require reaching the Foundation Establishment Realm to elerate the illumination speed.


    The handsome young man representing his first life was only at the peak of Qi-Refining, so the projection of its soul power was too weak for anything beyond a brief possession, severely limiting his capabilities.


    Lan Chang''an spected that the second life at the peak of Core Formation, with his profound foundation and powerful soul, if he were to project this soul''s manifestation, the divine abilities he could unleash would far surpass that of the first life.

 The Genre Of This Book

    The Genre Of This Book


    This book follows a "mortal framework" where the protagonist starts as an ordinary person. The story incorporates elements of cautious strategy, longevity, and some aspects of reincarnation. It is not the type where the character continually reincarnates to gain power (known as the "hundred lives" trope). The protagonist¡¯s special abilities or advantages, known as "golden fingers," will be developed as the story progresses.


    Although the protagonist adopts a cautious approach, it is not to an extreme degree. Once strength is sufficient, he will act decisively, crushing enemies while pretending to be weak, and will not shy away from obtaining crucial resources at important junctures.


    Volume 1plete! yay!


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    We have a patreon now, check it out here!

 Chapter 57: Failure in Laying the Foundation

    Chapter 57: Failure in Laying the Foundation


    Lan Chang''an slowly concluded his daily cultivation routine.


    At his side, the juvenile Profound Water Turtle the size of a water pitcher nuzzled affectionately against his robe, absorbing the lingering residual aura from Lan Chang''an''s cultivation of the Evergreen Technique.


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an made a surprising discovery: feeding the juvenile turtle the mana from the Evergreen Technique daily, as well as having it absorb the residual aura during his own cultivation, actually promoted the growth of the Profound Water Turtle''s cultivation growth.


    From his observations, the growth rate of the Profound Water Turtle''s eggs was three to 30% to 40% faster than the records indicated.


    This result was understandable to him. The Evergreen Technique was rted to lifespan and the passing of years, while the Profound Water Turtle was a long-lived species that required an immensely long period to mature.


    "At this rate, the Profound Water Turtle will reach the second-rank in a bit over a hundred years, and around three hundred years it could reach the third-rank,parable to a Core Formation cultivator." Lan Chang''an did not intentionally increase the duration or dosage of feeding it Evergreen mana, otherwise it would be too obvious.


    However, the physical growth of the Profound Water Turtle was normal, with the main eleration being in its cultivation and bloodline talent. It would be difficult for a non spirit beast tamer cultivator to notice the abnormality.


    Demonic beasts had sturdy bodies and bloodlines, naturallyprehending some spells and innate abilities. In this aspect, human cultivators were far inferior and still needed to cultivate diligently and use magical treasures to contend with them.


    The Profound Water Turtle had just entered the Qi-Refining stage and was beginning to disy some of its talents.First was the ability to control its aura. It could reduce its presence, making it harder for enemies to detect it, improving its chances of survival.


    Second was its water attribute spells. It could produce bubbles, waterballs, and ripples...


    Its innate talent for water escape was also starting to show.


    Finally, there was its turtle shell. Even as a juvenile Profound Water Turtle, its shell was extremely hard.


    Lan Chang''an had tested it - low-grade magical weapons couldn''t even scratch its shell.


    If it grew for a few more decades, once the juvenile turtle retracted into its shell, cultivators below the Foundation Establishment Realm would have difficulty dealing with it.


    ...


    *Squeak squeak!*


    While Lan Chang''an was interacting with the juvenile turtle, the Earth Burrowing Rat came scurrying from the gatehouse carrying two letters, eagerly offering them up.


    Over the years, as Lan Chang''an showed increasing care for the juvenile turtle, the Earth Burrowing Rat felt threatened and would often try to curry favor with him.


    Low-ranked demonic beasts, though not as intelligent as humans, were still smarter than ordinary animals. However, the Earth Burrowing Rat only had a middle-grade bloodline, equivalent to a human with middle-grade spiritual roots, so it was not easy for it to advance to the second-rank.


    Lan Chang''an took the two letters.


    One was from Feiyue Lake.


    The other was from Jin Yun Valley.


    A year ago, at the post station in Huanglong Immortal City, Lan Chang''an had written letters to Li Erqing and Zhao Siyao to contact them.


    However, with Huanglong Immortal City being so distant, even spirit pigeon flying letters would take at least half a year for a round trip.


    Lan Chang''an opened Li Erqing''s letter first.


    Learning that Li Erqing had advanced smoothly to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining without using a Bottleneck-Breaking Pill, he felt relieved.


    It was foreseeable that Li Erqing''s cultivation would return to the right track and he would once again take the lead over Lan Chang''an.


    It wasn''t that Li Erqing''s cultivation was much faster. Both of them used low-grade spiritual roots for their main cultivation techniques. But Lan Chang''an was limited by the constraints of time, unable to gain obvious benefits from pills.


    Li Erqing''s Earth Rock Scripture was also not outstanding in power, but as long as he cultivated diligently and was well-supplied with spirit pills and spiritual rice, he could steadily progress rtively quickly. Ignoring potential bottlenecks, his progress would always stay slightly ahead of Lan Chang''an''s.


    "A middle-grade spiritual root, Mu Jiuan?" Lan Chang''an''s expression became odd.


    Li Erqing''s ninth child "Mu Jiuan" had a spiritual root quality close to the high-grade, so the Mu Family awarded Li Erqing generously with spirit stones, magical treasures, Qi-Refiningte-stage pills, and so on.


    All of this was due to giving birth to a child. The letter mentioned many matters regarding the Mu Family''s internal affairs.


    Including the eldest youngdy, Mu Xiuyun.


    "A year ago, Mu Xiuyun bought the ''Meridian Protecting Pill'' at a high price but failed in her attempt to establish her Foundation, sustaining severe injuries and severely damaging her vitality." This unfavorable news made Lan Chang''an sigh deeply.


    Failing to establish the Foundation carried the risk of losing one''s life. The Meridian Protecting Pill could not increase the chances of establishing the Foundation, however, it retained the effect of strengthening the dantian and protecting the meridians, so there was less risk of losing one''s life in failure.


    Mu Xiuyun''s qualifications and age were simr to Lan Chang''an''s, around forty-seven or forty-eight this year.


    Without a Foundation Establishment Pill, failing the attempt was normal. Sess would have been a fortunate stroke of luck.


    With her failure this time and severe damage to her vitality, Mu Xiuyun would likely need to recuperate for a few years. On her next attempt, she would be at least in her fifties.


    The older the age, the lower your potential is, and the chances of establishing the Foundation would diminish year by year.


    If one wanted to eventually form a true dan, it was best to establish the Foundation around the age of thirty to have greater potential afterwards.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an then opened Zhao Siyao''s letter.


    Previously he had asked Zhao Siyao about Foundation Establishment Pills from her sect, as well as about their alchemists.


    Zhao Siyao''s reply was:


    "The Foundation Establishment Pills obtained from the sect can only be used internally and cannot be resold to outsiders."


    After establishing her Foundation, through contributions to the sect, Zhao Siyao could still exchange for Foundation Establishment Pills. However, aside from the much higher cost, she could only gift the pills to younger members or descendants within the sect.


    Even if it were her direct descendants, if they had not joined the sect, she could not give them the pills.


    This cut off Lan Chang''an''s thought of trying to obtain the pills surreptitiously through the sect.


    As for the sect''s alchemists, they generally would not help outsiders refine Foundation Establishment Pills either, unless they had an especially good rtionship.


    After all, aside from the busy work of pill refining, the sect''s refiners also needed to cultivate themselves.


    Zhao Siyao had just established her Foundation and did not have sufficient connections among the upper echelons of Jin Yun Valley, so she did not know any second-rank alchemists well.


    Even if she did, to have someone refine Foundation Establishment Pills, she would still need to gather the materials.


    At the end of the letter, Zhao Siyao told Lan Chang''an: Jin Yun Valley had a station in Huanglong Immortal City, and if he encountered any major difficulties, he could use her name and token to perhaps receive assistance.


    If there was a great crisis, he could send an urgent message through the sect''s station, and Zhao Siyao would hurry over as soon as possible.


    "Knowing gratitude and repaying kindness, Fellow Daoist Zhao has a noble character." Lan Chang''an could not help but praise her.


    He was now considered to have a sect''s backing, sessfullytching onto a powerful thigh.


    By avoiding conflicts and making friends with others, his path to sess would be much smoother.


    Of course, this was also because his lifespan was plentiful, allowing him to steadily build connections one step at a time.


    For ordinary cultivators who avoided conflict and refused to fight, it was like sitting around waiting to die.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an put away his spirit pets and took stock of the spoils of battle in his storage pouch.


    "The timing is about right." Today, Lan Chang''an nned to go out and sell off his spoils.


    Two years ago, after arriving near Huanglong Immortal City, he had opportunistically killed two subordinates of the Evil-faced Flying Eagle and obtained some spoils of battle, including the belongings of the family of three he had killed.


    He did not need to sell off spirit pills and the like. However, the middle and low-grade magical weapons bore the markings of being spoils, so it was unsuitable to openly sell them.


    In his early years, after killing the ugly woman of the Zheng Family to avenge a wrong, Lan Chang''an had obtained two or three low-grade magical weapons.


    Now, Lan Chang''an had as many as ten useless magical weapons in his possession, with the majority being low-grade.


    If he wanted to scheme for a Foundation Establishment Pill, it would be better to liquidate these spoils.


    When he had first arrived in Huanglong Immortal City, unfamiliar with the environment, Lan Chang''an did not act rashly. But, these past two years, he learned there were ces in the city specializing in buying second-hand magical weapons without inquiring about their origins, though the selling price would be a few dozen percent lower.


    In reality, these were ces for fencing stolen goods in a roundabout way.


    With Huanglong Immortal City''srge poption flow and all sorts of people gathered, it was inevitable that there would be killings and plundering.


    In the outer city, the environment was more chaotic, and around the perilous ck Fog Mountain Range, an unknown number of cultivators perished every day.


    With so many spoils, a demand naturally arose. There were shops with backing that would do business in fencing stolen goods.


    "Talisman Master Lan." As Lan Chang''an exited Water Moon Residence, passing cultivators on the street would greet him.


    Over these past two years, Lan Chang''an had gotten acquainted with his neighbors, and nearby cultivators would alsoe purchase talismans from him.


    The talismans sold by Lan Chang''an were of excellent quality yet priced slightly lower than regr shops.


    ...


    Huanglong Immortal City covered a vast area, with flying not prohibited in most residential areas within the city.


    Lan Chang''an rode a magical weapon, flying out of Jinxiu Lane towards themercial district in the city center.


    The street stalls and most shops in the inner city were concentrated in this area.


    Lan Chang''an did not go directly to the ce for fencing stolen goods, first checking into an inn.


    He disguised himself in his room. Then, seizing an opportunity when no one noticed, he slipped out of the room and blended into the crowd leaving the inn.


    An hourter, he arrived at a shop that bought second-hand magical weapons.


    This ce overtly repaired magical weapons as its main business while also buying used ones, but in reality, it was for fencing stolen goods.


    "What can I do for you, sir?" The shopkeeper gave him a once-over, noticing his disguise, and revealed a knowing smile.


    "I have three magical weapons I have no use for, do you buy them?" The disguised middle-aged man Lan Chang''an took out the magical weapons from his storage pouch.


    "We buy, of course we buy. But since these are second-hand magical weapons, the price will be thirty to fifty percent lower than normal magical weapons." After verifying them, the shopkeeper quoted a price for the three magical treasures.


    "One middle-grade, two low-grade magical weapons, the condition is still decent. How about one hundred and sixty spirit stones?"


    "Too low, at least two hundred." Lan Chang''an negotiated the price slightly, closing the deal at one hundred and eighty spirit stones.


    The price was cheap, but it was worth it to avoid trouble.


    Lan Chang''an strode boldly out of the shop, secretly probing with his spiritual sense to prevent being targeted.


    Thew enforcement in the inner city was decent, but not absolutely safe.


    The formation arrays in the city could detect the fluctuations of battles, and enforcement cultivators would promptly arrive.


    However, if it happened in a secluded area where one could instantly kill the target or poison them without causing too much of a disturbance, then theoretically murder and plunder were still possible.


    It was just that the difficulty and risk would be much higher than outside, so hardly anyone attempted it.


    This was the real world of cultivation, not a game''s main city - there was no such thing as absolute safety anywhere in the cultivation world.


    ...


    "No one''s following me." Lan Chang''an blended into the crowd, not detecting any abnormalities.


    Two or three magical weapons were not enough to provoke murderous intent within the city.


    He returned to the inn.


    Disguising himself again, he went to another shop that bought used magical weapons.


    This time, Lan Chang''an was bolder.


    He sold four magical weapons at once, obtaining over two hundred spirit stones.


    "Still no one targeting me?" Lan Chang''an blended back into the crowd, feeling surprised that he had gone unnoticed.


    Huanglong Immortal City truly deserved its reputation as a sanctuary for wandering cultivators!


    It seemed that as long as it wasn''t a greatly renowned treasure, there was little risk in fencing ordinary magical weapons.


    This led him to specte that an unknown number of evil and rogue cultivators must be lurking within the city, their identities obscured.

 Chapter 58: Backing

    Chapter 58: Backing


    Returning to the inn.


    For Lan Chang''an''s final round of fencing stolen goods, he sold four more magical weapons, making a profit of over two hundred spirit stones.


    Today''s three trips to fence items totaled six to seven hundred spirit stones. Although it was a bit of a loss, it did save him quite a bit of trouble.


    Lan Chang''an reverted to his original appearance and checked out of the inn room.


    Passing by the shops in themercial district, he kept an eye out for the raw materials needed for second-rank talismans.


    The talisman paper, spirit ink, and talisman pens used for second-rank talismans were made from second-rank demonic beasts corresponding to the Foundation Establishment Realm, making them quite scarce.


    ...


    Master Guan''s stall was located on this street in the market district. Lan Chang''an took the opportunity to stop by and take a look.


    "Senior Brother Lan."The bright-eyed and fair-skinned youngdy in a cheongsam dress had justpleted a transaction with a customer.


    Seeing the tranquil young man in a white robe, Guan Qiaozhi''s eyes lit up and she cheerfully waved him over.


    "Master Guan, how''s business today?" Lan Chang''an approached the stall and examined the goods.


    There were talisman papers, spirit inks, demonic beast furs and hides, talisman boos, as well as low to middle-grade talismans.


    After arriving in Huanglong Immortal City, Lan Chang''an had shown some favor to Master Guan and his disciple.


    He needed materials to draw talismans, so he would exchange those materials for rtively inexpensive talismans from Master Guan.


    This was beneficial for both parties.


    Master Guan''s stall mainly sold entry-level talismans of decent quality. Although the profit margins were not high, it allowed him to expand his product range and enhance his reputation.


    Over these past two years, the ie from the stall had seen a slight increase.


    As for Lan Chang''an, he obtained materials for drawing talismans while also gaining an additional sales channel for talismans.


    It had to be said, Guan Qiaozhi was truly skilled with her dexterous hands. At such a young age, her talisman paper crafting skills were quite impressive, able to handle even premium talisman papers.


    "Thanks to Talisman Master Lan''s blessings, business has been good. In a few more years, we''ll be firmly established in the inner city." The wrinkles on Master Guan''s face eased as he smiled with gratification.


    Although Lan Chang''an acknowledged him as an immortal guide, Master Guan did not regard himself as a senior, usually addressing Lan Chang''an as Talisman Master Lan instead.


    "Qiaozhi''s skills are truly impressive." Lan Chang''an selected a few premium talisman papers, quite satisfied with them.


    "That''s for sure! I''ve even helped the Puppet Master Sang next door with his puppets before. The puppet master praised my dexterity and said he would gift me a puppet dog in the future."


    The sixteen-year-old Guan Qiaozhi had delicate and pretty features. As she spoke of her aplishments, her eyes curved into crescents.


    Over these past two years, she had gradually forgotten the fact that Lan Chang''an was even older than her own biological father. She had even developed a bit of trust and intimacy toward this new senior brother who had appeared out of nowhere.


    Lan Chang''an inwardlymented: Guan Qiaozhi had mediocre spiritual sense, otherwise her talents in dexterity would make her well-suited for either talisman drawing or bing a puppet master.


    As the two conversed, three male cultivators approached with an overbearing manner.


    "Old man Guan! Why are you setting up your stall here again?" The cyan-robed cultivator in the lead, at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, spoke with an unpleasant expression.


    "Fellow Daoist Meng, there are no explicit rules prohibiting us from setting up stalls in this market district." Master Guan replied calmly despite some apprehension.


    "The talismans you''re selling are priced too low, viting the Talisman Alliance regtions. Either move your stall elsewhere or raise your prices to match the quality." The cyan-robed cultivatorined.


    "Old man Guan, I advise you to know your ce. While there may be no written rules for this stall area, there are unspoken rules here, and vitors will not meet a good end."


    "At your age, you can be stubborn, but you should think about your female disciple." The two cultivators behind the cyan-robed one issued veiled or explicit threats while purportedly offering advice.


    Seeing this scene, Lan Chang''an instantly understood the reason.


    It was simply because Master Guan''s high quality yet affordable talismans had led to increased profits, earning the resentment of his peers.


    The prices of Master Guan''s talismans were actually normal, but their quality was slightly better. After all, they were talismans refined by Lan Chang''an himself, with consistent and excellent quality.


    First, Master Guan wasn¡¯t viting any rules of the market stall district.


    Second, he wasn¡¯t affecting the market order. His prices weren¡¯t considered unfair.


    The so-called ¡°Talisman Alliance¡± was mostly just a bunch of people waving their chickens¡¯ feathers around like they were imperial edicts.


    How much authority could a Qi-Refining cultivator really have in the Talisman Alliance?


    "You there, I have to ask - In this market, whose authority is greater: yours from the Talisman Alliance, or the order of the Huanglong Immortal?¡± Lan Chang''an spoke in an indifferent tone.


    "Who are you?" The cyan-robed cultivator frowned, looking towards the youngte Qi-Refining cultivator before him.


    They had threatened Master Guan and his disciple mainly because they seemed weak and easy to bully in terms of age and strength differences.


    Their aim was to extort some benefits.


    Lan Chang''an''s questioning put them in an awkward position they could not easily answer.


    In Huanglong Immortal City, the supreme authority was naturally the number one wandering cultivator of the Liang Kingdom, the Huanglong Immortal.


    The Huanglong Immortal''s fame was widespread. Not only was he himself at the middle stage of the Core Formation Realm, but he also had a third-rank Earth Dragon spirit beast that contained a trace of the ancient Huang Dragon.


    "This fellow Daoist, what does this matter have to do with you?" The three of them avoided Lan Chang''an''s questioning since they knew they were in the wrong.


    "I am surnamed Lan, and I provide talismans for Master Guan''s stall. Does it have anything to do with me now?" Lan Chang''an retorted impatiently.


    The three of them froze, exchanging nces.


    "May I ask, Fellow Daoist Lan, what grade of talisman master you are?" The leading cyan-robed cultivator forced a smile, speaking much more politely now.


    "First rank, superior grade."


    The three of them slightly changed their expressions, their auras weakening by a hair.


    "Your Excellency, as a superior-grade first-rank talisman master, why have you not joined the Talisman Alliance? My master is a second-rank talisman master of the Huanglong Immortal City Talisman Alliance. May I ask where your backing lies, Fellow Daoist Lan?" The cyan-robed cultivator''s gaze flickered as he spoke.


    With many stall owners and cultivators watching themotion, he could not show weakness, so he brought up the name of a second-grade talisman master.


    "I don''t care about your Talisman Alliance or second-rank talisman masters. This Lan has a friend who is a Foundation Establishment cultivator of Jin Yun Valley. If you continue making trouble and questioning my credibility, then go take it up with Jin Yun Valley''s station." Lan Chang''an spoke domineeringly as he revealed a token from Jin Yun Valley.


    "A Foundation Establishment friend from Jin Yun Valley?" The three cyan-robed cultivators¡¯ hearts trembled. They were nothing more than a bunch of frauds, and they didn¡¯t dare to continue making trouble.


    "Talisman Master Lan, today''s matter was just a misunderstanding. Let''s all earn fortunes through harmonious means." The cyan-robed cultivator smiled wryly.


    In truth, he had only been fortunate enough to attend a public sermon given by a second-rank talisman master. He was just putting on airs by calling him his teacher.


    The surrounding stall owners and cultivators looked at Lan Chang''an with surprise, as if they had misjudged him at first.


    Seeing the cyan-robed trio slinking away with their tails tucked between their legs, Guan Qiaozhi''s bright eyes sparkled like stars, she couldn''t help but ask:


    "Brother Lan, do you really have a Foundation Establishment friend from Jin Yun Valley?"


    Regarding this matter, Master Guan was skeptical.


    He knew that the three blue-shirted cultivators were pulling the tiger''s skin as a banner. Lan Chang''an was most likely the same.


    After all, in the cultivation world, having connections and background was very important. Low-level cultivators often liked to exaggerate their connections to make a name for themselves.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare to show the token if it weren¡¯t true. After all, Jin Yun Valley has a branch in the Immortal City of the Yellow Dragon.¡±


    Lan Chang¡¯an didn¡¯t just use his connections with Jin Yun Valley to help Master Guan. He also used them to assert himself in the Huanglong Immortal City. If anyone tried to mess with him, they would have to think twice.


    This could help him filter out a lot of trouble.


    If he had connections but kept them hidden until he ran into trouble, he could definitely use them to put on a show and humiliate people. However, he might also end up creating grudges and drag Zhao Siyao down with him.


    That kind of irrational, immature behavior, Lan Chang''an naturally would not do.


    After confirming that Lan Chang¡¯an really did have connections with Jin Yun Valley, Master Guan''s eyes flickered. He realized that he had underestimated Lan Chang¡¯an.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, you¡¯ve helped us solve a big problem. Pleasee to my humble abode tonight for a few drinks.¡± Master Guan invited him with a smile.


    ¡°Sure.¡± Lu Chang¡¯an thought about how good Guan Qiaozhi was at cooking and felt his heart stir.


    .....


    The sun had just set.


    Master Guan and his apprentice packed up their stall and headed back to Jinxiu Lane with Lan Chang''an.


    They had just arrived at Master Guan''s front door.


    ¡°Oh, Talisman Master Lan went out with Old Guan to set up his stall. Could it be that he has his eye on that little girl?¡± Su Xuetong, who lived in the house across the street, giggled coquettishly.


    ¡°Sister Su, you¡¯re making fun of me again!¡± Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s face blushed red, and she subconsciously nced at Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an shook his head with a smile and ignored her.


    This female cultivator who lived alone next door was quite idle. She had no special skills, but she spent all day dressing up and looking beautiful. She often went out to spend money in the city, buying pretty magical robes, beauty-enhancing medicinal pills, and expensive spirit fruits, and asionally she dined out at fancy spiritual banquets.


    This woman seemed to have a lover!


    A few times in the middle of the night, Lan Chang''an had noticed a burly man sneak into Su Xuetong¡¯s house, only to leave again in the early hours of the morning.


    That burly man was at the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining and had a much higher level of spiritual power than most people of his cultivation base.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t have any desire to pry into other people¡¯s private lives, but he instinctively kept his guard up around Su Xuetong.


    Guan Qiaozhi, embarrassed, ran to the back to cook.


    Not long after, several delicious dishes were served, but the girl was still busy.


    ¡°My old bones can¡¯t hold out for more than another decade," Master Guan sighed. ¡°I wonder who will be so lucky as to have this sweet girl in the future.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say such unlucky things, Master Guan. There are plenty of legendary figures in the cultivation world who¡¯ve only grown stronger with age.¡± Lan Chang¡¯an didn¡¯t respond to Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s topic. This disappointed Master Guan a little.


    ¡°I¡¯ll raise a toast first. May Master Guan¡¯s immortal path be long and prosperous.¡±


    ¡°May your wordse true.¡±


    Master Guan drained his cup and nced at the kitchen before lowering his voice. ¡°Three years ago, Alchemist Du said he wanted Qiaozhi to be a maid at his manor... I didn¡¯t agree!¡±


    Lan Chang''an was shocked. Master Guan was being tactful; what he meant was that Du Wei wanted her to be his concubine!


    Guan Qiaozhi had only been thirteen at the time. That Du Wei could speak such words¡ªwhat a greedy, lecherous man!


    ....


    That night, the two of them had mentioned Alchemist Du.


    The next day, Lan Chang''an received an invitation from Du Wei.


    He said he had taken a new concubine and invited Lan Chang''an toe to the Du Mansion to partake in the wedding feast three days hence.

 Chapter 59: Crowdfunding Pill Refinement

    Chapter 59: Crowdfunding Pill Refinement


    Lan Chang''an and Du Wei were merely nodding acquaintances as neighbors.


    Du Wei''s invitation to the wedding feast was nothing more than a ploy to make some money.


    Ordinary cultivators, especially wandering cultivators, spend their entire lives in pursuit of various important pills.


    Cultivation pills, breakthrough pills, recovery pills, detoxifying pills, beauty pills, life-prolonging pills...to name a few.


    There could alwayse a day when they might need to seek out an alchemist.


    Hence, when the neighbors received invitations, they would express themselves to some degree.


    Lan Chang''an did not have a great need for ordinary pills.


    However, he had to obtain breakthrough pills for major realms, such as the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    The Evergreen Technique, tempered over an immensely long period, brought with it deep roots and foundations, pure mana, and sturdy meridians.He spected that breaking through major realms would at least provide some enhancements.


    Combined with his past life experience, he might have a decent chance of advancing even without using a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    But who wouldn''t want to increase their odds of a sessful breakthrough?


    Failing the attempt to break through a major realm would severely damage one''s vital energy and foundations to some extent.


    Lan Chang''an had no worries about lifespan, so he naturally wanted to maximize his chances of sess.


    ...


    Three dayster, Du Wei''s Pill Heart Residence was brightly decorated, with a constant stream of cultivatorsing to offer congrattory gifts.


    "Zhang Hong, thirty years old Ice Snow Fruit, one pound."


    "Schr Chen, twenty spirit stones."


    At the entrance of the manor, there was a butler specifically tallying the gifts, with a cultivator announcing them loudly.


    Lan Chang''an stepped forward and handed over his gift box.


    "Talisman Master Lan! Two superior-grade first-rank talismans! Six middle-grade first-rank talismans!" The announcer''s voice rose slightly.


    Lan Chang''an''s gift was six middle-grade talismans and two superior-grade talismans, all of ordinary quality.


    Worth seventy to eighty spirit stones, equivalent to a low-grade magical weapon, it was not an inexpensive gift.


    For Lan Chang''an''s talisman skills, the cost was less than a third.


    Superior-grade talismans wereparable to a single spell cast by ate Qi-Refining cultivator, inferior in might to a middle-grade magical weapon activated by ate Qi-Refining cultivator.


    The advantage of talismans was that they only required a small amount of mana to activate.


    The downside was that they were single-use consumable items, inferior in power to magical weapons and secret techniques of the same realm, and slightly less precise.


    After reaching the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, Lan Chang''an nned to refine second-rank talismans. With his powerful spiritual sense, he had a decent chance of seeding.


    It was just that the materials for second-grade talismans were too scarce!


    Second-rank talisman pens, second-rank spirit inks, second-rank talisman papers - how easy would it be to gather them all?


    He also could not be too overt in collecting them.


    Currently, Lan Chang''an had only acquired a few second-rank talisman papers of poor quality, while the spirit inks and pens he used were still first-grade.


    His attempts at drawing them only produced two inferior second-rank talismans. In terms of power, they were not much different from a premium Golden de Talisman.


    A superior-grade premium Golden de Talisman had power reaching the threshold of the early Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Lan Chang''an was in a situation akin to a skilled wife unable to cook because of theck of rice. He could only wait until he had gathered the materials before refining more second-rank talismans.


    ...


    "Talisman Master Lan, thank you for your generosity! Pleasee in."


    Upon hearing the announcement of the gift, Du Wei enthusiastically came out to wee him.


    He ushered Lan Chang''an into the main hall to be seated at a private table, separate from the public banquet in the courtyard.


    The treatment was fundamentally different from the courtyard banquet.


    For instance, Master Guan and his disciple, whose gift was worth just a few spirit stones, were seated in the courtyard.


    "Miss Su, a gift of one hundred spirit stones and one middle-grade magical weapon." A more excited and ted voice came from the entrance. The surrounding cultivators turned their heads in surprise.


    The one presenting the gift was none other than Su Xuetong. This gift was worth two to three hundred spirit stones, the most valuable gift of the day.


    Even Lan Chang''an was caught off guard.


    The gift he had given was already considered generous, as this was merely a banquet celebrating the taking of a concubine.


    "This woman''s extravagance likely means that the man behind her is seeking something from Alchemist Hua, possibly a Foundation Establishment Pill." Lan Chang''an pondered.


    It was highly possible that, like himself, she was scheming to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill! There would be no need to pay such a price for other purposes.


    Lan Chang''an still had some years before reaching Foundation Establishment, with ample lifespan, so he was not in a rush.


    From Su Xuetong''svish gift, the man behind her might be more urgent, having stagnated at the ninth level of Qi-Refining for many years, wanting to quickly gain ess to Alchemist Hua''s door.


    "Talisman Master Lan."


    Su Xuetong, graceful and charming, greeted him with a gentle voice as she took a seat at the head of his table.


    At the banquet, Su Xuetong exuded a coquettish allure, her bewitching gaze probing tentatively:


    "For Talisman Master Lan to be seated in the main hall, your gift must have been quite generous. I wonder what it is you seek from Alchemist Du."


    "Nothing in particr, just a simple desire to befriend Alchemist Du." Lan Chang''an smiled faintly, giving a perfunctory reply.


    He did not care what Su Xuetong might suspect.


    Perhaps she thought that he had moved next door to Du Wei in order to scheme for a Foundation Establishment Pill on behalf of the forces behind him.


    ...


    Du Wei was skilled at dealing with people.


    In the days after the celebratory banquet, he invited those who had given more generous gifts to visit his residence in batches.


    Du Wei naturally knew that those cultivators who sentvish gifts mostly wanted something from him.


    If he simply epted the gifts without doing anything, it would ruin his reputation, and who would give him favors in the future?


    Moreover, some of the gift-giving cultivators were ones Du Wei could not easily offend, either due to their backgrounds or formidable strength.


    Lan Chang''an and his neighbor Su Xuetong were among the same batch of invited cultivators.


    Du Wei personally received the two of them with rtive courtesy.


    "The two Fellow Daoists, one with a gentle jade-like demeanor, the other an unparalleled beauty, truly a pair of talented schrs and beauty." Du Weiughed as heplimented them, his thin mustache trembling slightly.


    "s, Talisman Master Lan likely does not look upon this withered flower with favor." Su Xuetong''s gaze was filled with mncholy as she adopted a pitiful and frail demeanor.


    "This Lan''s cultivation is shallow, nearly fifty years of age, unworthy of Miss Su." Lan Chang''an replied expressionlessly.


    If he did not know about the burly ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator who had visited Su Xuetong''s separate courtyard under the cover of night, he might have thought this woman had some interest in him.


    After all, Lan Chang''an''s appearance and bearing in this life were indeed quite impressive.


    Du Wei was merely making light conversation to enliven the atmosphere, with no real intention of matching the two of them.


    In truth, he was quite tempted by Su Xuetong, but did not dare provoke her.


    ...


    After they had enough wine and food, Du Wei invited the two of them to appreciate the flowers in the courtyard.


    During this time, he spoke privately with Su Xuetong and Lan Chang''an separately.


    When Su Xuetong and Du Wei conversed, they set up a sound-isting spell, but it could not conceal anything from Lan Chang''an''s powerful spiritual sense.


    Just as Lan Chang''an had guessed, during their conversation, Su Xuetong made it clear she wanted to get acquainted with Alchemist Hua, with the man behind her seeking to have a Foundation Establishment Pill refined.


    "Miss Su, my master''s schedule for pill refinement bookings is full until ten years from now. You understand, there are quite a few major powers in the city that my master cannot easily offend." Du Wei looked troubled.


    "Additionally, to refine a Foundation Establishment Pill, you need to provide the materials yourselves, preferably pooling them together with other cultivators." For an individual to gather all the materials for a Foundation Establishment Pill alone was extremely difficult. Only major cultivation forces could aplish that.


    Gathering aplete set of materials, with an experienced second-rank alchemist taking action to open the furnace and refine the pill, would often yield more than just a single pill. Lan Chang''an was well aware of this.


    In other words, it was crowdfunding for pill refinement.


    "We''ve prepared some of the materials, though one or two of the main ingredients are quite troublesome," Su Xuetong replied.


    Finally, she pleaded softly:


    "I hope Alchemist Du can help by introducing us to Senior Hua. This youngdy will surely be grateful!"


    Master Hua was an alchemist who had previously helped wandering cultivators refine Foundation Establishment Pills with a decent reputation.


    As long as they could form a connection with Alchemist Hua, they could cooperate with other cultivators gathering materials for Foundation Establishment Pills, giving them a chance to obtain one.


    "This Du will do his best! To be honest, it has been difficult for me to see my master in recent years." Du Wei sighed, speaking as if he was being imposed upon.


    "Thank you for your efforts, Fellow Daoist Du." Su Xuetong said, her eyes moist and voice alluring.


    ...


    Afterwards, Du Wei also had a private conversation with Lan Chang''an.


    During their talk, Du Wei probed to see if Lan Chang''an had any requests.


    "This Lan has only recently advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining these past two to three years, so I do not have a great need for pills at the moment. However, having the rare opportunity to be a neighbor of such an experienced alchemist, this Lan naturally wishes to interact more." Lan Chang''an smiled without immediately revealing his intentions.


    Even if he did, Du Wei would most likely assume he had a backer who wanted a Foundation Establishment Pill refined.


    "Of course, we should interact more! I''ve heard Fellow Daoist Lan''s talisman skills are quite aplished. I believe we will both be able to obtain what we need in the future." Du Wei revealed a beaming smile.


    He understood the implication that while Lan Chang''an had no needs currently, he would likely have requests in the future.


    In that case, Lan Chang''an would certainly provide him with some benefits during their interactions.


    "By the way, I previously acquired the inheritance of an alchemy master by chance in the secr world. After organizing it, I shall gift a copy to Alchemist Du to take a look." At the end of their conversation, Lan Chang''an dangled a small enticement.


    "An alchemy master''s inheritance? What level is it?" Du Wei''s eyes lit up with interest.


    "I''m not too sure myself, but at least a superior-grade first-rank alchemy master''s inheritance. It might even be a fragmented second-rank inheritance." Lan Chang''an replied ambiguously.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan is too kind!" Du Wei''s tone became much warmer.


    A first-rank superior-grade inheritance could serve as a reference for improving his skills. If it was a second-rank inheritance, the attraction would be even greater.


    Although Du Wei was a disciple of a second-rank alchemist, he definitely had reservations when teaching, only passing down the core skills to a mantle heir.


    ...


    After leaving the Pill Heart Residence, Lan Chang''an inwardly nodded, having smoothly taken this step to draw closer to Du Wei.


    The alchemy inheritances in his possession were not limited to just one. From his past life''s memories, he had three second-rank pill refining inheritances.


    Adding the one second-rank inheritance obtained from Liang Shaotian, he had a total of four. For an alchemist''s inheritance, the more the better.


    As for the more niche body cultivation techniques and the way of the puppets, he had paid limited attention to them in his past life due to constraints on his time and effort.


    Lan Chang''an nned to offer the worst second-rank low-grade alchemy inheritance and give a portion of it to Du Wei as bait.


    Once their rtionship deepened and Du Wei was hooked, would he still refuse to lend his efforts to help Lan Chang''an?


    ....

 Chapter 60: Second-Rank Talisman

    Chapter 60: Second-Rank Talisman


    Read Ahead 10 Chapters On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    When Plotting for the Foundation Establishment Pill, introducing a seasoned second-rank alchemist is only a critical step.


    The biggest challenge is collecting the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Lan Chang''an knew the recipe for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    He knew more than one recipe for the Foundation Establishment Pill, with different materialbinations and refining methods.


    The major powers in the cultivation world were as numerous as the sands of the Ganges River.


    For countless years, the number of forces that had mastered the recipe for the Foundation Establishment Pill was innumerable, and with the changing times, the recipe had even seen slight improvements.


    Common recipes for the Foundation Establishment Pill were certainly not secrets, and it was not difficult to obtain them with some effort.


    The recipe was not hard; the difficultyy in the gathering of the materials and in finding an alchemist skilled in the refining process.The key ingredients and auxiliary herbs for the Foundation Establishment Pill were monopolized by major powers.


    Lan Chang''an had nned for this when he first arrived at Huanglong Immortal City.


    ...


    Two years ago, he had written to Zhao Siyao, entrusting her with the task of monitoring and collecting the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill within the sect.


    As long as they weren''t the main ingredients or critically rare auxiliary herbs, they had a chance of being bought within the sect.


    Some herbs were not only used for the Foundation Establishment Pill but also had other uses. The sect did not control non-strategic resources that strictly.


    He trusted Zhao Siyao¡¯s character.


    For a Foundation Establishment cultivator, collecting non-critical materials was not a difficult task.


    Once a certain amount was collected, Lan Chang''an would visit Jin Yun Valley to buy them with spirit stones.


    Lan Chang''an would not rely entirely on Zhao Siyao.


    He would continue to monitor and slowly collect materials in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Every year in Huanglong Immortal City, there were small auctions, and every three to five years, there were medium torge auctions.


    As long as one had sufficient financial resources and was not afraid of being high-profile or taking risks, there was theoretically a chance to buy a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    ...


    Time passed.


    Over the next two years, Lan Chang''an¡¯s life in Huanglong Immortal City became more stable and leisurely.


    He continued cultivating and refining his body, feeding his pet, and delving into various techniques.


    Currently, there was the additional task of collecting materials..


    The materials he collected were not limited to those for the Foundation Establishment Pill but also included materials for second-rank talismans.


    Half a year ago, Lan Chang''an bought a second-rank talisman brush from a high-end talisman shop, spending fifteen hundred spirit stones.


    This drained his spirit stone reserves considerably, forcing him to sell some of his superior-grade talisman reserves.


    A senior first-rank superior talisman master could barely wield a second-rank talisman brush, increasing the sess rate of drawing talismans.


    Though this purchase revealed his wealth, his actions were not beyond reason, as he was not a wandering cultivator without any roots.


    With the second-rank talisman brush in hand, Lan Chang''an needed only to buy second-rank talisman paper and spiritual ink to draw more second-rank talismans.


    However, he needed to be cautious when buying materials for second-rank talismans.


    Lan Chang''an did not want to expose his true talisman-drawing skills, which were his greatest reliance before reaching the Core Formation Realm.


    ...


    Over the two years, Lan Chang''an''s rtionship with Du Wei had grown closer, often visiting each other without needing to bring gifts every time.


    Shortly after the concubine banquet, Du Wei learned that Lan Chang''an had a friend who was a Foundation Establishment cultivator within the sect, and his regard for him increased.


    Later on, Lan Chang''an divided the worst part of a second-rank low-grade alchemist''s inheritance into two halves. The part belonging to a first-rank inheritance was given to Du Wei.


    Du Wei, receiving the partial inheritance, guessed that Lan Chang''an had more, and naturally paid close attention.


    Du Wei no longer only sought benefits from Lan Chang''an but also reciprocated with cultivation pills for thete Qi-Refining stage.


    With mutual exchanges, they developed a genuine friendship, deepening their rtionship day by day.


    ...


    One day, Lan Chang''an was drawing second-rank talismans in a secret chamber.


    Fully focused, his magic power was nearly exhausted, and sweat beaded on his forehead.


    The final arc-like talisman stroke connected end to end on the second-rank talisman paper, as if an invisible current flowed through all the talisman lines.


    A fearsome spiritual pressure shed and solidified on the second-rank talisman paper.


    "Second-rank low-grade Thunderbolt Talisman." Lan Chang''an wiped the sweat from his forehead and smiled.


    The Thunderbolt Talisman, a second-rank talisman, came in low, middle, and superior grades.


    Its power was slightly stronger than ordinary second-rank talismans.


    The Thunderbolt Talisman drawn by Lan Chang''an, if used properly, could pose a threat to an early Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Using talismans had limitations. The higher the grade, the more restrictions there were.


    It wasn''t that a Qi-Refining cultivator could freely ughter Foundation Establishment cultivators with third-rank talismans.


    High-ranked talismans had terrifying power and wide ranges.


    They not only required mana to activate but also needed the cultivator to guide and control them, demanding a certain level of spiritual sense and mana control.


    Did anyone really think talismans were like ying cards, thrown around by the hundreds duringbat?


    If that were the case, the cultivation world would be ruled by talisman masters.


    A Qi-Refining cultivator guiding the power of a second-rank talisman was already strenuous, with any carelessness likely to result in self-harm.


    As for a Qi-Refining cultivator activating third-rank attack talismans?


    Whether the enemy would die was uncertain, but the user would most likely perish.


    The residual aura of a Core Formation-level power released by a third-rank talisman would instantly burn the user to ash.


    Therefore, when top geniuses from major powers ventured out, the high-rank talismans given by their elders were mostly defensive or life-saving ones.


    Lan Chang''an was better off.


    With his mental strength close to the early Foundation Establishment Realm, he could precisely guide second-rank talismans to exert Foundation Establishment-level power.


    ...


    After drawing the talisman, Lan Chang''an sat down to meditate.


    When his mana had recovered to about eighty percent.


    Whoosh!


    A sound transmission note flew into the courtyard, caught by Lan Chang''an.


    "Talisman Master Lan, I have good news, pleasee to my residence!" Du Wei¡¯s voice emanated from the sound transmission note.


    "Good news?"


    Lan Chang''an felt a stir and, after his magic power had recovered, headed to Du Wei¡¯s Pill Heart Residence next door.


    At Du Wei¡¯s residence.


    Not only was Lan Chang''an there, but so was Su Xuetong, dressed in a pce gown with her hair tied up.


    "Today my master is in a good mood and has some free time, so he will see you." Du Wei said, smiling with the ends of his mustache slightly raised.


    Su Xuetong couldn¡¯t hide her joy.


    She had befriended Du Wei for years, hoping to meet this Alchemist Hua.


    "Let¡¯s go, I¡¯ll take you to my master¡¯s residence." Du Wei acted swiftly, leading them towards the inner city near Huanglong Mountain.


    Close to the foot of Huanglong Mountain. A series of luxurious or elegant mansions came into their view.


    "A spiritual environment with a second-grade spiritual vein."


    Lan Chang''an keenly sensed that this ce was in the transition area between the inner city and Huanglong Mountain, asionally seeing Foundation Establishment cultivators flying by.


    "This is Huanglong District. The owners of these mansions are mostly Foundation Establishment cultivators." Du Wei said, leading them into a garden-style mansion with numerous medicinal herbs.


    "Wait here, I will inform my master."


    Leaving the two in the courtyard, Du Wei went directly to one of the halls.


    While waiting, Lan Chang''an noticed that the usually charming Su Xuetong was now nervous and uneasy.


    This was the difference in cultivation realms.


    No matter how stunning a beauty was, she would have to bow down when facing a senior of a higher realm.


    Not to mention, Alchemist Hua was not an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator; he held the key to reaching higher realms for Qi-Refining peak cultivators.


    After a while.


    Du Wei returned, his expression unnatural.


    "Alchemist Du, how is it?" Su Xuetong noticed something was off and asked cautiously.


    "My fellow cultivators, I am sorry."


    Du Wei took a deep breath, calming his emotions, and exined, "Today is unfortunate. An esteemed guest from Huanglong Mountain suddenly visited, discussing the art of alchemy with my master, so he cannot see you two for the time being."


    "Our luck is just too bad." Su Xuetong sighed, not daring toin in such a setting.


    Huanglong District was at the foot of Huanglong Mountain.


    It was normal for Alchemist Hua to know esteemed guests from Huanglong Mountain.


    On Huanglong Mountain, besides the elusive Huanglong Immortal, there were numerous disciples and descendants.


    Among Huanglong Immortal''s disciples alone, there were two Fake-Dan Immortal masters.


    Not to mention the other high-level Foundation Establishment experts.


    ...


    The three of them left in disappointment.


    On the way back, Du Wei repeatedly apologized.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t mind, as he only intended to familiarize himself with Alchemist Hua this time.


    When he reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining and had collected enough materials, he would then seek Alchemist Hua to refine the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Returning to Jinxiu Lane.


    Du Wei invited the two to his residence, hosting a banquet as an apology.


    After a few drinks, Su Xuetong left midway.


    "Brother Lan, this was my oversight."


    Du Wei, holding a wine cup, leaned closer and lowered his voice, "To show my sincerity, besides two of my wives, you can choose anyone from my concubines to spend the night with you."


    Patting Lan Chang''an¡¯s shoulder, he smiled suggestively.


    "If one is not enough, you can choose two."


    "Brother Du, don''t joke. I really didn¡¯t take today¡¯s matter to heart." Lan Chang''anughed helplessly.


    Even if Du Wei didn''t mind, he had no interest in bing his "unusual" brother-inw.


    Given Du Wei¡¯s words, today¡¯s incident seemed indeed to be an ident.


    Of course, Du Wei¡¯s "sincerity" wasrgely driven by his desire for the other half of the second-rank alchemy inheritance in Lan Chang''an¡¯s possession.


    Du Wei had greatly benefited from the part he already had and was eager for the rest.


    ...


    Back at Water Moon Residence.


    Lan Chang''an returned to his peaceful days.


    Every day he interacted with the Profound Water Turtle, feeding it spiritual grains and evergreen mana, keeping it by his side during his cultivation.


    Beside Lan Chang''an, who sat cross-legged, the small turtle grew steadily over time.


    Three yearster.


    The young turtle had grown to the size of a bushel.


    On this day, the Evergreen mana in Lan Chang''an''s body advanced one level further.


    "Fifty-three years old, eighthyer of Qi-Refining!"


    Lan Chang''an realized that he was one step closer to Foundation Establishment.


    Not long after he reached the eighthyer of Qi-Refining.


    A Foundation Establishment cultivator visited the Water Moon Residence.

 Chapter 61: The Successor of an Old Friend

    Chapter 61: The Sessor of an Old Friend


    Transitioning from the seventh to the eighthyer of Qi-Refining isn''t considered a major breakthrough.


    From the seventh to the ninthyer belonged to thete stage of Qi-Refining. Eachyer increases one''s power by no more than twenty to thirty percent.


    However, transitioning from the early to the middle stage or from the middle to thete stage of Qi-Refining results in a significant power increase, almost doubling it.


    The same was true for the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Two dayster, once his power stabilized, Lan Chang''an exited the secret chamber.


    The Profound Water Turtle, sensing the lingering aura on him, clumsily followed with its limbs iling in a somewhat silly manner.


    Currently, the Profound Water Turtle had been hatched for over a decade and had firmly entered the ranks of first-rank early stage spirit beast.


    In terms of physique, itgged behind its true cultivation level.


    The Profound Water Turtle was adept at concealing its aura, making it difficult for ordinary cultivators to discern its true nature unless they were a highly skilled spirit beast tamer."Squeak! Squeak!"


    The Earth Burrowing Rat eagerly brought a letter, darting in from the courtyard.


    Lan Chang''an took the letter, it was from Li Erqing.


    In the letter, Li Erqing expressed his longing and mentioned that if not for his wife and children, he would have visited Huanglong Immortal City.


    About a year ago, Li Erqing''s cultivation had reached the eighthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Without any bottlenecks in the minor stages and with his mind at ease, coupled with the family rewards of medicinal resources, Li Erqing''s cultivation progressed steadily.


    It wasn''t that Li Erqing''s cultivation speed was exceptionally fast, but rather that Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen Technique was slow and limited by the passing of years.


    Li Erqing also mentioned Mu Xiuyun in his letter.


    Five years ago, after failing to achieve Foundation Establishment, Mu Xiuyun had been managing the shop in Bamboo Leaf Mountain, and her dealings with the family became less and less.


    It''s not hard to imagine that failing to achieve Foundation Establishment had a significant impact on Mu Xiuyun''s state of mind.


    In previous years, Lan Chang''an had sent two letters to the shop in Bamboo Leaf Mountain, inquiring about Mu Xiuyun''s situation with the intention offorting and guiding her.


    However, there was no response from Mu Xiuyun''s side.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an had just finished reading the letter.


    A deep male voice came from outside the courtyard gate:


    "Is this Water Moon Residence? Is it where Fellow Daoist Lan resides?"


    Lan Chang''an sensed a wave of spiritual sense emanating outside.


    The visitor was clearly a Foundation Establishment cultivator!


    "Ah, it''s Fellow Daoist Zhang. Pleasee in!" Lan Chang''an opened the formation and greeted them at the entrance of the courtyard.


    Two people arrived, one of whom was a slightly dark-skinned, stern-faced young cultivator, Zhang Tieshan.


    After seven or eight years, Zhang Tieshan had already be a Foundation Establishment cultivator, it looked like he had made a breakthrough in recent years.


    "Uncle Lan."


    Behind Zhang Tieshan was a disheveled young man whose former handsome features could still be faintly seen.


    "Lin Lu, you are here too." Lan Chang''an responded coldly.


    Regarding Lin Lu''s situation, Zhao Siyao had mentioned it in her letters some years ago.


    Thest time he saw Lin Lu was ten years ago in front of his father Lin Yi''s tombstone; now, this young man was about thirty years old.


    It was hard to associate the disheveled young man before him with the rather arrogant young man from the sect a decade or so ago.


    "In the past ten years, Lin Lu has squandered almost all the inheritance left by his father, Lin Yi." Lan Chang''an recalled what Zhao Siyao had mentioned in her letter.


    ...


    In the first year or two after Lin Yi''s death, Lin Lu was rtively well-behaved. But in the following seven or eight years, it was a different story.


    Initially, Lin Lu made many dubious friends, some of whom were wandering cultivators, and there were also outer sect disciples.


    With ample financial resources, Lin Lu was ttered and indulged in theirpany.


    He hosted banquets, visited pleasure houses, changed dual cultivation partners twice, andpeted with sect disciples.


    During this period, hevishly squandered the inheritance left by his father.


    A few years ago, after a stern reprimand from Zhang Tieshan, Lin Lu severed ties with those dubious friends, corrected his habits, and intended to make a fresh start.


    However, at this time, a pure and lovely inner sect female disciple entered his life.


    This pure female cultivator, innocent and romantic, was different from his previouspanions and didn''t covet his wealth.


    When they first met, the pure female disciple often gave him gifts, which were even more valuable than the gifts Lin Yi had given her.


    Lin Yi thought he had found true love.


    Two years ago, this pure female disciple was vying for a core disciple position and asked him to lend her a considerable amount of spirit stones.


    The female disciple''s qualifications and prospects were good.


    Lin Lu thought of how Lan Chang''an and others had invested in Zhao Siyao back then and gained the connections and friendships of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    He and the pure female disciple were genuinely in love, and their rtionship was extraordinary, so it was entirely possible to follow suit.


    He dreamed of having a Foundation Establishment female daoist partner in the future, a more sessful investment than Lan Chang''an''s in Zhao Siyao.


    Lin Lu sold off his assets and gave her several hundred remaining spirit stones.


    But the result was that after bing a core disciple, the pure female disciple turned her back on him.


    Not only that, she also fell for a disciple with a good background within the sect.


    As for the several hundred spirit stones Lin Lu had lent her? There were no written records.


    Moreover, to appear generous, Lin Lu had imed they were gifts.


    ...


    The haggard Lin Lu before him had his cultivation stagnated at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining, lost both his wealth and love, and his spirit was broken, his Dao heart unstable.


    Despite his father Lin Yi sacrificing his life to leave him a good hand, he ended up in such a sorry state.


    Lin Lu''s only remaining bottom line was not squandering the spiritualnd of the Hidden Immortal Pavilion, where his father Lin Yi was buried.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, pleasee in and have a seat." Lan Chang''an politely invited Zhang Tieshan in.


    Half a year ago, Zhao Siyao had informed Lan Chang''an in a letter about Zhang Tieshan''s visit.


    Zhang Tieshan, who had been close friends with Lin Yi, naturally didn''t want Lin Yi''s only cultivator son to fall into ruin.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I want Lin Lu to change his environment and temper himself in Huanglong Immortal City for a few years. I hope you can look after him." Zhang Tieshan exined his intention.


    "Don''t worry, Fellow Daoist Lan. He won''t disturb your cultivation. I have rented him a room in the inner city and arranged a job for him."


    "I was friends with Lin Yi for over twenty years, so it''s only right to look after his son." Lan Chang''an didn''t refuse.


    What he meant by looking after him was doing what he could within his limits, without affecting his own cultivation and safety.


    "Thank you very much." Zhang Tieshan had actually prepared a breakthrough pill for Lin Lu.


    However, he wanted to temper Lin Lu''s character first before giving it to him.


    This way, they would not owe each other anything and could treat Lin Lu as an ordinary disciple in the future.


    ...


    After exining Lin Lu''s situation, Zhang Tieshan took out a storage pouch.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, this is something Senior Sister Zhao asked me to bring you."


    Inside the storage pouch were materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill that Zhao Siyao had collected for Lan Chang''an over the years.


    Lan Chang''an nced at it, feeling delighted.


    Zhao Siyao had collected one main ingredient and five or six auxiliary ingredients for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that these materials were worth at least several hundred spirit stones.


    He was about to take out spirit stones tomission Zhang Tieshan to bring back to Jinyun Valley.


    "Senior Sister Zhao said you helped her a lot with her Foundation Establishment, so there''s no need to pay for these materials." Zhang Tieshan stopped him.


    Lan Chang''an sighed softly and didn''t insist.


    Zhao Siyao was repaying his favor.


    Once this favor was exhausted, if there was still a significant gap in their realms, their rtionship would inevitably be distant and alienated.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang came to Huanglong Immortal City this time to eliminate the ''Evil-faced Flying Eagle''?" During their conversation, Lan Chang''an learned about one of Zhang Tieshan''s objectives for this trip.


    "The Evil-faced Flying Eagle has been missing for years. Based on some indications, he might be lurking around Huanglong Immortal City." Zhang Tieshan analyzed.


    "After all, he has been at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining for many years. In a chaotic ce like Huanglong Immortal City, he has a better chance of establishing a foundation."


    Lan Chang''an agreed, "If this viin establishes a foundation, the harm will be tenfold. With Fellow Daoist Zhang''s Foundation Establishment cultivation, I''m sure you''ll seed this time."


    "It''s not that easy. This viin is good at disguising and being cautious. Moreover, he has been low-key and dormant in recent years." Zhang Tieshan shook his head and sighed.


    After chatting for a while, Zhang Tieshan left with Lin Lu.


    When leaving the courtyard, Zhang Tieshan nced at the Profound Water Turtle in the corner, seemingly lost in thought.


    Back then, at the auction in Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market, Lan Chang''an had contended for the Life Extension Pill with a centenarian and purchased the Profound Water Turtle.


    Afterward, the reputation of the Turtle Talisman Master became a topic of amusement among the surrounding cultivators and was a hot topic for a while.


    Lan Chang''an deliberately let the Profound Water Turtle show its face once in a while.


    If it was always hidden at home, suddenly bringing out a big turtle one day would seem abrupt and unusual.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an escorted Zhang Tieshan out of the courtyard.


    A visit from a Foundation Establishment cultivator drew the attention of the surrounding neighbors, dispelling any doubts about Lan Chang''an''s background.


    Soon after.


    Master Guan learned of this and enthusiastically hosted a banquet, inviting Lan Chang''an to his home.


    Lan Chang''an had been in Huanglong Immortal City for seven or eight years, maintaining a talisman-for-materials exchange rtionship with Master Guan and his disciple, with frequent interactions.


    In the evening, Lan Chang''an arrived at Master Guan''s house.


    "Senior Brother Lan, you''re here!" A sweet girl¡¯s voice called.


    Now, Guan Qiaozhi had blossomed into a young woman, dressed in an embroidered blouse and skirt, with a light figure and graceful curves.


    Though not of stunning beauty, she was charming and lovely.


    After greeting, Guan Qiaozhi went to the kitchen to help.


    Lan Chang''an and Master Guan drank and chatted as usual.


    "Ah, I don''t know how much longer I''ll be able to enjoy this girl''s delicious food." This time, Master Guan looked even older, having passed the age of eighty.


    Lan Chang''an had a keen sense of longevity and could tell that Master Guan had less than ten years to live.


    The theoretical lifespan for Qi-Refining cultivators could reach 120 years.


    However, battles, injuries, energy loss, great joys and sorrows, and minor ws in cultivation methods¡ªall these factors would affect the lifespan.


    Generally, Qi-Refining cultivators who lived to about a hundred years were considered to have died of old age.


    Master Guan had suffered serious injuries back in the day, making it difficult for him to live long.

 Chapter 62: Opening the Furnace to Refine Pills

    Chapter 62: Opening the Furnace to Refine Pills


    Over the past few years, Lan Chang''an noticed that Master Guan intended to entrust his female disciple to him. He had subtly expressed that his ambitiony in cultivation and that he had no ns to marry or have children at least before reaching the Foundation Establishment stage.


    "Chang''an, you have been cultivating alone for many years. Even if you don''t n to marry or have children, you need a maid or concubine to take care of you and help manage your life," Master Guan said with a smile, making his intentions quite clear.


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an''s talents, character, and conduct had gained Master Guan''s approval, especially since he also had Foundation Establishment friends from the sect. Master Guan knew that Guan Qiaozhi wasn''t worthy of Lan Chang''an, but if she could be a concubine, it would at least set his mind at ease.


    Compared to the money-grubbing and lustful Du Wei, Lan Chang''an, whom he knew well, was far more reliable and wouldn''t mistreat his disciple. Although the status of a concubine wasn''t high, at least she wouldn''t have topete for favor by Lan Chang''an''s side.


    "Junior Sister Qiaozhi is talented and capable. It would be an injustice for her to be a maid or concubine," Lan Chang''an replied without directly rejecting the idea.


    Master Guan was his immortal guide, and Lan Chang''an felt obliged to help in some way. Guan Qiaozhi was considerate, a good cook, and could manage household chores and pets, which would improve Lan Chang''an''s quality of life. Additionally, her talent in making talisman papers could be useful to him.


    "Master Guan should consider carefully," Lan Chang''an suggested seriously. "There''s another option: I can rmend Qiaozhi to the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake. With her spiritual root and skills, it wouldn''t be hard for her to livefortably."


    "Thank you for your advice, Talisman Master Lan. I still need to consult Qiaozhi about this matter," Master Guan nodded, feeling quite relieved. Entrusting his disciple to either Lan Chang''an or the Mu Family seemed like a reliable choice.


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an was invited to Du Wei''s residence again. Du Wei hosted a banquet, spending dozens of spirit stones on ingredients, showing great enthusiasm."Fellow Daoist Lan, you are friends with ''ck Iron Face'' from Jin Yun Valley?" Du Wei asked in surprise.


    "ck Iron Face" was the nickname of Zhang Tieshan, who was known for his ruthless and upromising enforcement of the sect''s rules. Zhang Tieshan was also strong in actualbat, having captured and killed many notorious evil cultivators, and had notable achievements even in Huanglong Immortal City.


    "Haha! I have an average rtionship with Zhang Tieshan. My true Foundation Establishment friend in the sect is another person," Lan Chang''an denied.


    It was fine to be privately acquainted with Zhang Tieshan, but openly iming a close rtionship might attract unnecessary trouble, as Zhang Tieshan had many enemies. Moreover, Zhang Tieshan, with his low-grade spiritual roots, had lesser talentpared to Zhao Siyue butpensated with a strong will and exceptionalbat skills. Lan Chang''an suspected that Zhang Tieshan might possess some fortuitous encounter.


    "By the way, when does Fellow Daoist Su n to seek Alchemist Hua''s help for pill refining?" Lan Chang''an changed the topic.


    Three years ago, their meeting with Alchemist Hua was canceled. About a yearter, Du Wei found another opportunity and brought Lan Chang''an and Su Xuetong to meet Alchemist Hua. The second meeting was sessful. Lan Chang''an gifted a two-hundred-year-old herb and several premium first-rank talismans, leaving a favorable impression on Alchemist Hua.


    Su Xuetong''s gift was even more valuable, though its contents were unknown, judging by Alchemist Hua''s pleasant smile. Clearly, Su Xuetong had impressed him, and if the materials were gathered, pill refinement should be possible.


    "Opening the furnace to refine pills should be within the next two years," Du Wei spected.


    "When the timees, I hope Brother Du will take me along to broaden my horizons. Perhaps I might participate in the next furnace opening," Lan Chang''an toasted to Du Wei.


    Su Xuetong and others pooling materials for pill refining needed to be present at the scene; otherwise, if the pills turned out poorly, who would know if the Alchemist Hua had swallowed the materials?


    Lan Chang''an wanted to go there to observe, mainly to assess how skilled the Alchemist Hua was and whether his character was reliable.


    "Of course! I''ll take you with me," Du Wei readily agreed, finishing his drink.


    Before leaving, he asked with a smile, "Fellow Daoist Lan, have you organized the remaining part of the alchemy inheritance?"


    "Oh, I¡¯ve organized half of the remaining part. If Brother Du is in a hurry, I can give it to you now," Lan Chang''an said, handing over a jade tube.


    Previously, he had given Du Wei half of the inheritance, primarily covering first-rank alchemy. The remaining half contained second-rank alchemy. Now, he divided this half into two parts, giving Du Wei a quarter of the total inheritance. The final quarter, which was the essence, remained with Lan Chang''an. If necessary, he could even divide that further.


    "Brother Lan is very considerate," Du Wei said, slightly twitching his facial muscles but smiling as he saw Lan Chang''an out.


    Two years passed in the blink of an eye. Lan Chang''an turned fifty-five. His alchemy skills had finally stabilized at superior-grade first-rank. Although he was still far from Du Wei and the Alchemist Ge of back then, he could at least break even by refining a few superior-grade first-rank pills.


    Lan Chang''an''s alchemy talent was mediocre, and his progress was due to abundant free time and long years of practice. His strong spiritual sense also helped.


    Besides alchemy, Lan Chang''an had reached the limit of the thirdyer of the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual, vaguely touching the fourthyer but encountering a bottleneck.


    The fourthyer corresponded to the early Foundation Establishment Realm. In recent years, Lan Chang''an had begun purchasing small amounts of second-rank spirit sand stones.


    "Talisman Master Lan,e to my residence immediately!" A voice transmission note from Du Wei interrupted Lan Chang''an''s ytime with his Profound Water Turtle. Suspecting something significant, he put away his spirit pet and left Water Moon Residence.


    At Du Wei''s Residence, Lan Chang''an met Su Xuetong, who had arrived almost simultaneously.


    This time, Su Xuetong was not alone; a tall, thin man with a sallow face and at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining apanied her. Lan Chang''an sensed that this man, whether his cultivation or spiritual sense, had reached the limit of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, surpassing many of his peers.


    "This is my Daoist partner, Nie Xiang." Su Xuetong briefly introduced.


    The tall, thin man, Nie Xiang, was taciturn and merely nodded at Lan Chang''an. His eyes were calm as a deadke, yet Lan Chang''an faintly felt a murderous aura. Living near the ck Fog Mountain Range, adjacent to Huanglong Immortal City, was chaotic.


    Reaching the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining was rare without experiencing ughter, so possessing a murderous aura was normal.


    "Fellow Daoists, follow me to my master¡¯s residence." Du Wei instructed without unnecessary words, leading the three out.


    Soon, they flew to Huanglong District at the foot of Huanglong Mountain. Cautious in flight, they sensed the asional presence of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    For the third time, Lan Chang''an entered Alchemist Hua''s residence. This time, Du Wei led them directly to the alchemy hall at the rear without announcing their presence.


    In the courtyard of the alchemy hall, besides Lan Chang''an''s group, there were two other groups of five to six people each. Both groups were led by individuals at the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining. One was a plump woman in her forties, the other a dashing young man in long robes. They were addressed as Madam Liu and Young Master Zhou, respectively. Madam Liu had been introduced by another disciple of Alchemist Hua, while Young Master Zhou had contacted Alchemist Hua through other channels.


    At that moment, a lean old man with a youthful face and white hair emerged from the hall, exuding the aura of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Alchemist Hua." everyone greeted respectfully.


    "Bring out your materials; I will verify them," Alchemist Hua scanned the group with his spiritual sense, nodding to the leaders of the three groups.


    Young Master Zhou, Madam Liu, and Su Xuetong each took out their storage pouches. Nie Xiang, who was with Su Xuetong, kept a low profile. He left all the social niceties to his cultivation partner.


    "Young Master Zhou, acquiring this three-hundred-year-old Xuanling Fruit was no easy task." Alchemist Hua praised while inspecting the materials.


    The value of spiritual herbs wasn''t solely based on their age. Even a thousand-year-old mundane tree couldn''tpare to a ten-year-old spiritual herb.


    The Xuanling Fruit, a second-rank spiritual fruit with stringent growth conditions, was a critical ingredient for the Foundation Establishment Pill and needed to be at least three hundred years old.


    "Xuanling Fruit, a strategic resource monopolized by major powers," Lan Chang''an recalled. His collected materials for the Foundation Establishment Pillcked such rare main ingredients.


    "Hmm, Phantom Heart Grass, Moon Sun Branch, February Tears..." Alchemist Hua meticulously checked the materials provided by Madam Liu and Su Xuetong. After double-checking, he confirmed that the materials for refining the Foundation Establishment Pill wereplete.


    "Fellow Daoists, before refining, I must rify. Due to the scarcity of materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill, second-rank pill masters who aren¡¯t part of major sects don¡¯t have much experience making them." Alchemist Hua stated, prompting nods from the group.


    A second-rank alchemist could refine Foundation Establishment Pills, but they didn¡¯t have as many opportunities to practice as they did with ordinary pills.


    ¡°The number of times this old me has refined Foundation Establishment Pills is not that many. Normally, I can make two pills. If I do well, I can make three. If I''m unlucky, I might only make one.¡± Alchemist Hua cautioned.


    Alchemist Hua was being upfront about the potential results. He was willing to help because he would be paid for his work and because he would gain valuable experience in the process.


    (End of the chapter)

 Chapter 63: Fourth Layer of Body Refinement

    Chapter 63: Fourth Layer of Body Refinement


    "Rest assured, Alchemist Hua, we will understand even if the results are not perfect."


    The representatives from the three groups expressed their understanding.


    It wasn''t easy to hire a reputable second-rank alchemist to refine Foundation Establishment Pills.


    "Finally, let''s discuss the distribution of the Foundation Establishment Pills!" Alchemist Hua paused for a moment, then continued.


    Su Xuetong and the others listened attentively, as this concerned their interests.


    "For coborative pill refining like this, the distribution is usually based on the value of the materials provided, with priority given to those who contributed the most valuable materials."


    "This time, Young Master Zhou''s materials are the most valuable, followed by Miss Su, andstly, Madam Liu. Does anyone have any objections to this priority order?" Alchemist Hua looked at the three groups.


    "This distribution is fair, we have no objections," both Young Master Zhou and Su Xuetong agreed.


    With a normal performance, Alchemist Hua could produce two pills.Madam Liu''s expression changed slightly, "If only one or two pills are produced, this concubine''s share of materials..."


    Young Master Zhou smiled and said, "Madam Liu, if you don''t receive a Foundation Establishment Pill, Miss Su and I willpensate you with spirit stones for the materials you provided. The exact amount will depend on the total value of the pills produced."


    Hearing this, Madam Liu epted the distribution n.


    Those who provided materials, even if they didn''t receive a Foundation Establishment Pill, could still recover part of their losses.


    "Since no one has any objections, I will begin refining. You may observe from a distance within the alchemy hall, but do note close or disturb me." After speaking, Alchemist Hua collected the three piles of materials and entered the alchemy hall.


    The hall was spacious, with a brass alchemy furnace about ten feet tall in the center, at least a second-rank furnace.


    The three groups sat on mats outside the hall, observing from a distance.


    "Fellow Daoist Su, Fellow Daoist Lan, please be patient," Du Wei and another disciple went to assist Alchemist Hua.


    Before long, the temperature inside the hall began to rise.


    Around the alchemy furnace, there was a small second-rank me formation, as well as a supply of spirit bamboo charcoal to add and subtract at the right time to control the intensity of the spirit me.


    As a superior-grade first-rank alchemist, Lan Chang''an could discern some details.


    Normal pill refining had the most stable heat supply with ground fire. Though Alchemist Hua''s residencecked ground fire, the tier-two me formation and high-quality spirit bamboo charcoal made the conditions eptable.


    What followed was waiting for the results of the pill refining.


    For the three group leaders, all at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, the wait was torturous, feeling like an eternity.


    For Lan Chang''an, who was not directly involved, observing the pill refining process made time pass quickly.


    Seven dayster.


    A rich medicinal aroma filled the hall, and the alchemy furnace began to glow.


    "Rise!"


    Alchemist Hua''s face was solemn as he formed seals with his hands, initiating the furnace-opening technique.


    A colorful mist burst from the furnace lid, apanied by rolling waves of heat.


    Within the light and heat, three pills flew out andnded in Alchemist Hua''s hand.


    "Alchemist Hua, how did the pills turn out?" Young Master Zhou and the others eagerly stepped forward to ask.


    Alchemist Hua opened his hand, revealing three pills, frowning slightly at them.


    One of the pills was dark in color, clearly a waste pill.


    The other two pills were bright and shiny, their spiritual light slowly fading.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that one of the Foundation Establishment Pills had four natural dao patterns.


    One dao pattern indicated a low-grade first-rank pill; two dao patterns indicated a middle-grade first-rank pill.


    Four dao patterns corresponded to a low-grade second-rank pill, considered a standard Foundation Establishment Pill.


    The other Foundation Establishment Pill had an iplete fourth pattern, only partially formed.


    "One standard Foundation Establishment Pill and one inferior pill, which should increase the Foundation Establishment sess rate by a little over ten percent." Alchemist Hua said expressionlessly.


    One standard pill and one inferior pill.


    This result was eptable, within reasonable expectations.


    "Haha! I will dly ept this standard Foundation Establishment Pill." Young Master Zhou said with a smile, taking the pill from Alchemist Hua.


    Su Xuetong received the inferior pill and handed it to the tall, thin man at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, Nie Xiang.


    Nie Xiang looked at the inferior pill in his hand, frowning in dissatisfaction.


    This pill only increased the Foundation Establishment sess rate by a little over ten percent, even slightly worse than the one auctioned at Bamboo Leaf Mountain back then.


    He whispered a few words to Su Xuetong.


    "Madam Liu, my husband says he doesn''t n to use this inferior Foundation Establishment Pill. Would you be interested in it? We want to exchange it for key materials for another Foundation Establishment Pill and ask Alchemist Hua to refine it again." Su Xuetong said with a smile.


    Madam Liu was tempted, "I don''t have many Foundation Establishment materials left. Can you give me two years to gather them? I will use spirit stones for the remaining part."


    The two discussed privately and reached an agreement.


    With Alchemist Hua present, Lan Chang''an didn''t dare to recklessly extend his spiritual sense to eavesdrop.


    After the pill refining was over, the three groups didn''t stay long and flew off separately.


    Su Xuetong, Lan Chang''an, and Du Wei returned together.


    Nie Xiang acted alone, flying into the bustling city and soon disappeared.


    ...


    At Water Moon Residence.


    Back home, Lan Chang''an was deep in thought.


    This pill-refining session gave him a general understanding of Alchemist Hua''s skills.


    The alchemy attainments were good, but when it came to refining the Foundation Establishment Pill, the techniques and proficiency were rather average.


    It was understandable; which alchemist could afford to frequently practice with Foundation Establishment Pills?


    "I need to prepare more materials, especially the rare main and auxiliary ingredients, to secure a higher priority for the pills." Lan Chang''an thought.


    Currently, with Zhao Siyao''s help, the materials he had gathered weren''t much worse than what Nie Xiang provided this time.


    With another decade or so of collecting, if he could acquire a three-hundred-year-old Xuanling Fruit, having Alchemist Hua refine the pills should yield at least one standard pill, assuming luck wasn''t particrly bad.


    Foundation Establishment Pills also had superior and top grades.


    Superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pills, with four and a half patterns, could increase the sess rate of establishing foundation by twenty-five percent.


    Top-grade Foundation Establishment Pills, with five patterns, broke the pill grade limit and could increase the sess rate by thirty percent, a rarity even for third-rank alchemists to produce sessfully.


    Given his conditions, Lan Chang''an only sought a standard Foundation Establishment Pill, not an inferior one.


    Inferior Foundation Establishment Pills not only had poor effects but also contained more impurities.


    ...


    Three yearster.


    In the secret room of Water Moon Residence, shielded by a formation.


    Lan Chang''an sat in a medicinal bath, his bones crackling, and his skin glowing a crystal-like texture.


    His body exuded a strong aura, making the nearby Earth Burrowing Rat and Profound Water Turtle tremble in fear.


    Crack!


    Lan Chang''an grabbed a piece of first-rank refined iron ore, and with a squeeze, the ore,parable to a low-grade magical weapon, shattered into pieces.


    He then took a middle-grade magical weapon flying shuttle and slid it along his arm, leaving only a white mark.


    "Haha, consuming so much sand and precious medicinal baths over the decades was not in vain after all." Lan Chang''anughed heartily.


    At that moment.


    His Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual broke through to the fourthyer.


    In terms of physical strength alone, he wasparable to an early-stage second-rank demonic beast.


    Of course, this was just an auxiliary body refinement technique.


    He didn''t have the bloodline talents of demonic beasts, who could naturally perform certain spells.


    With just his physical strength, Lan Chang''an could dominate the Qi-Refining stage but couldn''t defeat a Foundation Establishment Realm cultivator or a second-rank demonic beast.


    However, with his magic power, talismans, and other trump cards, he could fully contend with an early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The progress in his body refining technique was due to his financial resources, ample free time, and the regenerative benefits of the Evergreen Technique.


    It wasn''t because he was gifted and was some kind of body refinement genius.


    "The physical techniques from the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual are focused on speed. I should practice them in the future." Lan Chang''an thought as he got out of the medicinal bath and left the secret room.


    ...


    "Senior Brother Lan, let me help you change."


    A pretty young girl with delicate curves greeted Lan Chang''an, using a towel to wipe his body.


    Lan Chang''an used a spell to steam dry his body, and Guan Qiaozhi helped him put on his clothes.


    Years ago, Lan Chang''an discussed Guan Qiaozhi''s future with Master Guan and proposed two options:


    One was to serve as Lan Chang''an''s maid servant. The Second was to go to the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake and settle down.


    Master Guan sought his female disciple''s opinion.


    After much consideration, Guan Qiaozhi decided to be Lan Chang''an''s maid.


    Of course, since Master Guan was still alive, Guan Qiaozhi only asionally came to help with household chores and took care of the pets.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t mistreat Guan Qiaozhi and gave her a Beauty Pill that he had privately refined.


    Guan Qiaozhi blushed, saying she had taken one at eighteen.


    However, more pills were better than less, and taking one every few years could achieve the effect of a Face-Retaining pill.


    Though in her twenties, Guan Qiaozhi still looked like a young girl.


    .....


    "Whose wine is this?"


    Lan Chang¡¯an walked into the courtyard and noticed a jar of spirit wine sitting on the stone table.


    ¡°It¡¯s from Fellow Daoist Lin Lu,¡± Guan Qiaozhi replied. ¡°He left a message for you and headed off.¡±


    Lan Chang¡¯an looked thoughtful.


    Lin Lu hade to visit once before, also bringing a small gift as a sign of respect to his elders.


    Of course, he wanted to maintain a good rtionship with his Uncle Lan.


    After all the ups and downs he had experienced in life, Lin Lu was no longer the arrogant young sect disciple he had been in the past. He was much more mature than he had been before.


    Two years ago, he had received a breakthrough pill from Zhang Tieshan and had subsequently risen to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly. Lin Lu was already thirty years of age when he came to the Huanglong Immortal City. It was simply toote for him to have awakened to his true potential. He was already thirty-five now.


    If he had started out with the sametent talent and foundation that he had back then, it might have been possible for him to reach Foundation Establishment back in the sect.


    After reaching the fourthyer of the Body Refinement Manual, Lan Chang''an was much more at ease in the Huanglong Immortal City. He began to collect Foundation Establishment materials, including the ingredients for second-rank talismans.


    Before he even realized it, he had saved up ten second-rank talismans. Two of them were escape talismans, which greatly strengthened his ability to save his life!

 Chapter 64: Robbery In The Courtyard

    Chapter 64: Robbery In The Courtyard


    Two monthster.


    A sound transmission note flew into Water Moon Residence.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, how goes the collection of your materials? I have a better channel for refining Foundation Establishment Pills. Pleasee to my humble abode for a discussion." A gentle and charming female voice came through.


    The sound transmission note came from the neighbor, Xuetong.


    Three years ago, Lan Chang''an went to observe the refining of Foundation Establishment Pills and continued to collect the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill for many years in Huanglong Immortal City. Naturally, this did not escape the attention of Du Wei, Su Xuetong, and others.


    "Three years ago, Su Xuetong obtained a defective Foundation Establishment Pill, which her Daoist partner Nie Xiang dismissed. They nned to trade the inferior pill for materials and find someone to refine a Foundation Establishment Pill for them again." Lan Chang''an thought.


    At this moment, Su Xuetong invited him to discuss the matter, iming she had found a better channel for refining Foundation Establishment Pills, it seemed that she wasn''t too satisfied with Alchemist Dan''s quality of work.


    If there was a better alchemist, it would provide an additional option.


    "There''s no harm in going!" Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment, smiled slightly, and got up to leave Water Moon Residence....


    "Talisman Master Lan, the door is not closed."


    A clear and charming female voice came from the courtyard, resembling a dignified and nobledy.


    In the courtyard, a beautiful woman in a pce dress and gauze skirt, with eyebrows like mountains and eyes like water, was as beautiful as a peach blossom.


    Su Xuetong leaned under the osmanthus tree, her skirt revealing her snow-white, slender legs.


    Beneath the thin gauze skirt, her beautiful contours were faintly visible.


    If he were any ordinary man, he would surely be ovee with desire.


    "Talisman Master Lan, pleasee in and talk."


    Su Xuetong''s eyes shimmered as she extended a jade-like arm, seemingly wanting to hold Lan Chang''an''s hand.


    A lingering fragrance, elegant and fresh, emanated from the beauty, arousing one''s desires.


    "Hmm? How lovely!"


    Lan Chang''an did not refuse and held Su Xuetong''s soft and boneless fingers.


    Su Xuetong was momentarily stunned. Her charming eyes became even more and more tender as if expressing poetic sentiments.


    "You, you''re usually a prude! But turns out you are just like other men." Her soft and coquettish voice was bewitching.


    Lan Chang''an, holding her delicate hand, smiled and said, "Miss Su, being so close to me, old brother Nie Xiang in the room will not be jealous, right?"


    Upon hearing this, Su Xuetong''s face turned pale: "You, you know?"


    Crack!


    Lan Chang''an applied a bit more force, causing Su Xuetong''s jade-like hand to make a bone-cracking sound, and she broke out in a cold sweat from the pain.


    "Talisman Master Lan, indeed, is not an ordinary person, your senses are so sharp." A hoarse male voice came from inside the house.


    Whoosh!


    In an instant, a gray night veil enveloped the entire courtyard, isting it from the outside world.


    A gaunt man appeared in the courtyard, dragging several afterimages behind him.


    "With the concealment of the ''Four Illusory Sky Curtain Formation'', even if you shout until your throat is hoarse, the outside world won''t hear it."


    Nie Xiang looked at Lan Chang''an with a mocking smile, confident of his victory.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t look as panicked as he had expected. He leisurely said, "To be targeted by the renowned Evil-faced Flying Eagle, I, Lan, am honored!"


    "You, you actually guessed my identity?"


    Nie Xiang''s expression changed drastically, his cold and fierce gaze sweeping the isted courtyard outside the formation with vignce.


    Seeing no other cultivators outside, he breathed a slight sigh of relief and regained hisposure.


    "Hiss! Still not poisoned?"


    Su Xuetong''s face was flushed, and she groaned in pain.


    Lan Chang''an''s hand, like an iron mp, crushed her hand bones, making her entire arm numb and unable to break free.


    The poisonous fragrance she emitted had been inhaled by Lan Chang''an for quite a while, yet he showed no reaction?


    If not, she wouldn''t have let Lan Chang''an take advantage of her.


    "So, the channel for refining Foundation Establishment Pills you mentioned is non-existent?" Lan Chang''an''s voice gradually turned cold.


    Earlier, he only suspected Nie Xiang''s identity but was notpletely certain.


    There is no way to guard against a thief for a thousand days.


    Since he was targeted, he could not sit still and wait for death; it was best to take the initiative to stifle the hidden danger.


    "Nie indeed contacted a rogue alchemist! But many materials are stillcking. I hope Brother Lan can contribute those."


    Nie Xiang remained unusually calm, ignoring the controlled Su Xuetong.


    His cold eyes, like a poisonous snake, stared at Lan Chang''an.


    Crack!


    Lan Chang''an suddenly exerted force, tearing off Su Xuetong''s arm.


    "Ah!"


    Su Xuetong nearly fainted from the pain, her snow-white arm, along with a piece of her skirt, fell to the ground.


    Inside the sleeve of her other arm.


    A purple soft sword aimed at Lan Chang''an instantly lost control.


    With a "poof" sound.


    The purple soft sword pierced through the trunk of an osmanthus tree.


    The moment Su Xuetong lost control.


    Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh¡ª


    Three sickle-shaped cold lights shed at Lan Chang''an''s forehead, chest, and lower body.


    The cold lights whizzed in, so fast that ordinary Qi-Refining cultivators could not react in time.


    These were magical weapons in the form of throwing knives, imbued both with mana and the powerful force of a Martial Innate.


    The protective mana shield of thete Qi-Refining stage could not block it.


    Lan Chang''an sidestepped, dodging the sickle-shaped cold light aimed at his forehead.


    Ding!


    He extended a finger, flicking away the sickle-shaped hidden weapon flying towards his chest.


    The sickle-shaped hidden weapon slicing towards his lower body cut into Lan Chang''an''s pants leg, encountering something as hard as a diamond.


    With a "ng" sound.


    The hidden weapon fell powerlessly to the ground.


    Nie Xiang and Su Xuetong were stunned.


    "To have refined the body to this extent? No wonder you don''t have half a bit of fear when you know my name."


    Nie Xiang took a deep breath and produced a white bone bow and arrow, with the white bone arrow shing a dangerous ck light.


    Screech!


    A thick cry came from the sky.


    A ck eagle with a wingspan of four or five zhangs circled above Lan Chang''an, its powerful ws ready to strike.


    Kneeling on the ground, Su Xuetong formed a hand seal, and the purple soft sword emerged from the osmanthus tree, aiming at Lan Chang''an from behind.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an faced a peak Qi-Refining ninthyer, a peak first-rank demonic bird, and a newly entered Qi-Refining ninthyer female cultivator.


    "Lan Chang''an, your strength is beyond expectations. You are a top expert in the Qi-Refining stage. Nie admits you have the qualification to cooperate with us."


    Nie Xiang''s hand holding the bowstring was steady, his eyes flickering.


    "Talisman Master Lan, let''s work together and join forces to refine the Foundation Establishment Pill." Su Xuetong forced a smile and reluctantly spoke.


    "I don''t think you have any sincerity for negotiation."


    The evil-faced flying eagle seemed to want to talk.


    In fact, as long as Lan Chang''an rxed a bit, he would face a storm of attacks.


    From the moment his identity was exposed, the evil-faced flying eagle would not allow him to leave alive.


    "Unappreciative¡ª"


    Nie Xiang''s face turned cold, and the white bone bow in his hand gathered magic power to its limit.


    Before he could finish speaking, a change urred.


    Hiss!


    A dazzling golden de of light about five meters long shed through the sky.


    The peak first-rank ck eagle''s wings suddenly stiffened, its pupils filled with fear.


    A clear line of blood wrapped around the ck eagle''s abdomen.


    With a mournful cry!


    The ck eagle with a wingspan of four or five zhangs was split in half, and its body fell from the sky.


    "Evil-faced flying eagle? I will chop off your wings first!" Lan Chang''an smiled lightly, having just activated a hidden Golden de Talisman.


    This time he used a premium Golden de Talisman, its power reaching the threshold of the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Flying monsters have weaker physical defensespared to scale-armored ones, making them easy to kill with a surprise attack.


    Killing the peak first-rank ck eagle, Nie Xiang lost his mobility, significantly reducing his ability to escape.


    The ck eagle flying at full speed could not be caught even by a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an did not kill immediately upon entering, besides confirming identities, this was the reason.


    ...


    "Old ck¡ª"


    The ck eagle, which had apanied him for many years, died instantly, and Nie Xiang was furious and caught off guard.


    His cold eyes filled with grief and killing intent.


    Whoosh¡ª


    A white bone arrow shrouded in ck fog shot through the air like lightning, its power almostparable to the Foundation Establishment stage.


    "Die!"


    Su Xuetong gritted her teeth, her eyes filled with resentment, manipting the purple soft sword like a purple electric snake, stabbing at Lan Chang''an''s back.


    The purple soft sword was an excellent middle-grade magical weapon, extremely powerful in the hands of ate Qi-Refining cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense was powerful and could reach out to 20 to 30 zhangs. He wasn¡¯t at all flustered when facing the attacks from both front and back.


    He activated a premium talisman, causing ayer of cold light to spring up around him.


    Pfft!


    The white bone arrow was exceptionally powerful, and with a slight lurch, it pierced through the cold light shield.


    A single attack from a top-grade magical weapon was beyond the scope of what a first-rank talisman could handle.


    Lan Chang''an formed anotheryer of Evergreen mana force shield around his body.


    Pfft!


    The white bone arrow pierced through the secondyer of mana force shield easily. The ck fog that surrounded it evaporated, leaving only the remaining power to strike Lan Chang''an.


    Ding! Ding!


    Two ngs of iron striking rock.


    The first was the white bone arrow, and the second was the purple soft sword that had stabbed Lan Chang''an¡¯s back.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s robes were torn, but he was otherwise unharmed.


    ¡°This...¡±


    Nie Xiang and Su Xuetong¡¯s pupils contracted, and a great terror and helplessness filled their hearts.


    ¡°Ahh!¡±


    A young woman¡¯s blood-curdling scream.


    Pfft!


    Several spikes burst from the ground, each several meters tall, and pierced through Su Xuetong¡¯s beautiful body.


    ¡°I...¡±


    Su Xuetong struggled with her bloodied hands as she looked at Nie Xiang onest time before dying, unwilling to breathe herst.


    ¡°Surname Lan! You killed Old ck and Tong-er. I will take you down with me.¡±


    Nie Xiang¡¯s entire body boiled with mana, his eyes bloodshot. His face twisted into that of an old man¡¯s.


    He grabbed an unknown ck pearl in his hand.


    ¡°Thunder Fiend Pearl! Die with me¡ª¡±


    Amidst his crazed howls, Nie Xiang threw the ck pearl in his hand.


    If this were any other cultivator, they would have been on guard and avoided it.


    Lan Chang''an let out a coldugh and then reached out to grab the ck pearl.


    This little trick.


    How could it be hidden from his spiritual sense that was spread throughout?


    ¡°Run!¡±


    Nie Xiang went against the appearance of being crazy and desperate. The moment he threw out the ck pearl, he fled in fear without looking back.


    Rumbling sounds echoed out as he consumed his essence blood to unleash a secret technique, his body erupted into a ck fog, filling half of the courtyard.


    Hi everyone, Zwere here. Today, Ie with a piece of bad news. I''ve realized that uploading double chapters everyday bes a bit strenuous for me with my work life picking up andpromises the quality of the trantion. So to free up some time for my other hobbies and ensuring better TL quality, I''ll be scaling back to delivering one chapter per day. You can expect an update everyday at 2 PM UTC. Thanks for your understanding ??

 Chapter 65: A Bountiful Harvest

    Chapter 65: A Bountiful Harvest


    ck fog burst and spread, obscuring vision and billowing in all directions.


    In the chaos, a strand of ck fog reached the wall of the back courtyard.


    Sst!


    A golden de shed down, instantly dispersing the ck fog.


    "No! How did you find this old man?"


    A raspy shout rang out as Nie Xiang''s figure appeared, activating a second-rank defensive talisman.


    ng!


    The golden de was blocked by ayer of crystal yellow earth shield, a crack appearing on thetter upon impact.


    "Lan Chang''an, show mercy! This old man has a Foundation Establishment Pill and a great secret on my body! It can be shared with you." Inside the earth shield, a withered old face, pale and sickly, spoke urgently.Employing the escape technique had severely injured the Evil-faced Flying Eagle and the disguise technique broke down in the previous battle.


    The Evil-faced Flying Eagle had reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining at least twenty years ago, and was even older than Lan Chang''an.


    Half of his fame came from the formidable bloodline of his peak first-rank ck Eagle, whose flight speed even early Foundation Establishment cultivators could not match.


    Lan Chang''an paid him no heed.


    His peak first-rank Earth Burrowing Rat directly attacked the second-rank earth shield with a series of "thump-thump-thump" sounds.


    He summoned the ck Net magical weapon, enveloping Nie Xiang.


    Crack!


    Under the dual assault, the second-rank earth shield protecting the Evil-faced Flying Eagle continued to dim, the cracks widened, and soon it shattered!


    Hum!


    Nie Xiang took out another white pearl, emanating a misty light to protect his body,parable to a top superior-grade defensive treasure.


    But it was no use, unable to withstand the attack.


    Nie Xiang was utterly despairing.


    The enemy before him was only at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, yet far exceeded reason.


    He had hope of reaching Foundation Establishment in his life, so why did he provoke such a person?


    "Break!"


    Lan Chang''an activated his Body Refining Technique, his body emitting a crystal-like glint, exuding the aura of a mighty beast. With one punch, he shattered the misty light protecting Nie Xiang.


    Crack!


    The remaining force was still ferocious, shattering Nie Xiang''s chest and rupturing his organs.


    Instantly, blood poured from the seven orifices as he copsed, barely clinging to life.


    "Foundation Establishment Body Refinement??"


    "You, you did this deliberately..."


    On the verge of death, Nie Xiang seemed to understand something, ring resentfully at Lan Chang''an.


    Pooh!


    The flying shuttle shed by, severing Nie Xiang''s head.


    The fierce and mighty evil cultivator Evil-faced Flying Eagle was finally in.


    ......


    "It''s toote to understand now!"


    Lan Chang''an''s expression was calm as water.


    It turned out that he had allowed himself to be ambushed by the Evil-faced Flying Eagle couple. In other words, he was fishing for a catch.


    After the visit from Zhang Tieshanand the pill refining operation, Lan Chang''an had suspected that Nie Xiang might be the Evil-faced Flying Eagle.


    But he was notpletely certain.


    After all, there were many cultivators in the Huanglong Immortal City, and those at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining seeking Foundation Establishment were not few.


    Lan Chang''an''s pursuit of Foundation Establishment Pills and collection of materials could not be hidden from those with ill intent.


    Especially his neighbor Su Xuetong, the Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s woman.


    The Evil-faced Flying Eagle had failed to obtain a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill in hisst attempt and needed to re-collect the materials.


    However, the aging Evil-faced Flying Eagle could not afford to wait any longer.


    There was every incentive to go after Lan Chang''an, who was also collecting materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    The Evil-faced Flying Eagle targeted the Foundation Establishment Pill materials Lan Chang''an had gathered.


    How could Lan Chang''an not do the same?


    He could have declined Su Xuetong''s invitation this time.


    But the hidden danger existed in his vicinity.


    Rather than being secretly spied upon by the enemy, it was better to take the offensive and eliminate the hidden threat.


    With his strengthparable to Foundation Establishment, he could easily crush the two.


    While obtaining Foundation Establishment materials, he could also avenge Mu Xiuyun.


    ......


    "Foundation Establishment Pill... top superior-grade divine bow and arrows...


    Exotic White Pearl... first-rank Life Extension Pill..."


    Lan Chang''an went through the storage pouches of the two, and couldn''t help but be happy.


    The Evil-faced Flying Eagle had not sold the inferior Foundation Establishment Pill he had previously concocted.


    Lan Chang''an had no difficulty understanding why.


    He kept that pill as a backup.


    Even if he obtained a standard Foundation Establishment Pill, sess was not guaranteed.


    If he did seed in advancing, this inferior pill could be given to his woman.


    "So many of these are Foundation Establishment Pill ingredients?" Lan Chang''an opened another storage pouch, overjoyed.


    He suspected that when the Evil-faced Flying Eagle imed he would sell the inferior pill to Madam Liu, it might have been a trap.


    The evil-faced flying eagle¡¯s n to kill Lu Chang¡¯an was so well thought out that even the most elite ninthyer Qi-Refining disciple from a sect would find it difficult to escape such a cmity.


    ......


    The side courtyard had an array concealing it, so the outside world could not detect any abnormalities.


    Lan Chang''an calmly took stock of the spoils.


    The most valuable was the Foundation Establishment Pill, followed by the Exotic White Pearl and the top superior-grade magical weapon, White Bone Bow and Arrows.


    The top superior-grade White Bone Bow and Arrows, if charged with enough power, had terrifying destructive power, and counted as a top quality item for the same realm.


    Even in the early Foundation Establishment stage, this bow would not be considered outdated.


    The white pearl was a first-rank natural spirit pearl that did not require refinement. Infusing it with spiritual power could generate a protective mistparable to a top superior-grade defensive treasure but with lower energy consumption.


    The "Four Illusory Sky Curtain Formation" set up in the courtyard was a second-rank minor array mainly used for concealment and trapping enemies in illusions.


    This small-scale arraycked offensive power and had rtively low value among second-grade arrays, but it was still equivalent to a top superior-grade magical weapon.


    The purple soft sword used by Su Xuetong was considered a top mid-grade magical weapon, easy to conceal and change form.


    Additionally, the Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s storage pouch contained two or three mid-grade magical weapons, a flying boat, and various other treasures and pills.


    The two also had a total of one to two thousand spirit stones, a considerable sum even for Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Spirit stones were just a small part.


    The Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s true wealth was converted into the Foundation Establishment Pill and its ingredients.


    The umtion of decades was turned into a dowry, allowing Lan Chang''an a bountiful harvest.


    "Adding the Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s contribution of Foundation Establishment Pill ingredients, I now onlyck one main ingredient and two rare auxiliary materials."


    Lan Chang''an organized all these materials together.


    He found that many ingredients were duplicated.


    If the rare main ingredient and two auxiliary materials were not considered, with another ten years of gathering, Lan Chang''an might be able to obtain enough materials for two Foundation Establishment Pills.


    The main ingredient Lan Chang''ancked was the second-grade spirit fruit Xuanling Fruit, requiring a three-hundred-year specimen.


    The two auxiliary materials were Illusory Heart Grass and February Tears.


    The Xuanling Fruit was a strategic resource controlled by major powers. Thetter two auxiliary materials were scarce resources, and hard to find.


    "I''ll keep this inferior Foundation Establishment Pill as a backup."


    After a while, Lan Chang''an finished counting the loot, and carefully stored the important Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Next was the aftermath.


    ......


    Lan Chang''an had considered this before taking action.


    The Evil-faced Flying Eagle was a wanted demonic cultivator hunted by various markets, cultivator families, and the Jin Yun Valley.


    Whoever killed him could present his head to im the bounty from a faction.


    Especially for sect disciples, they could exchange it for contribution merits and gain renown within their sect.


    Lan Chang''an''s n was to let Zhao Siyao have this favor in exchange for resources.


    There were two benefits to this approach:


    First, he would give the credit and fame to a Foundation Establishment cultivator, while he reaped the actual benefits without bearing potential threats.


    For example, the Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s subordinates or unknown descendants seeking vengeance.


    This grudge would be borne by the Foundation Establishment cultivator of the sect.


    No one would imagine that a mere Turtle Talisman Master like him could y the infamous Evil-faced Flying Eagle.


    Second, he could appropriately disy his strength, solidifying his rtionship with the Foundation Establishment cultivators of the sect.


    Publicly, Lan Chang''an could reveal his peak first-rank spirit beast, and histe Qi-Refining stage body refinement, as well as a second-rank talisman.


    There was no need to show his true Foundation Establishment power, even to the trusted Zhao Siyao.


    "This guy is old enough, so that''s even better!"


    Lan Chang''an approached the Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s corpse and circted his Evergreen mana, employing a secret technique to wither life.


    This secret technique had been something he had learned in his previous life when he was in the Core Formation Realm, and it was performed best through wood-type mana.


    "Such good results?"


    Lan Chang''an soon stopped, looking at the even more aged Evil-faced Flying Eagle.


    If examined, it would seem the deceased''s bodily functions had deteriorated before death, no longer at peak condition.


    Lan Chang''an''s method ensured that even Foundation Establishment cultivators could not discern the truth.


    As for Core Formation Immortals, why would they care about a wanted small-fry in the Qi-Refining realm?


    This way, when demonstrating part of his power before Zhao Siyao, killing an aging ninthyer of Qi-Refining, even a renowned figure, would not be jaw-droppingly shocking.


    After all, the difference between the eighth and ninthyers of Qi-Refining was only twenty to thirty percent in terms of magical power.


    Such an achievement could not be considered killing an opponent of a higher realm.


    ......


    After arranging the scene in the courtyard and ensuring no oversights, Lan Chang''an took out the main array g to deactivate the second-grade concealment illusion array. The outside world remained oblivious to what transpired within.


    Inside the courtyard, there was still a normally functioning defensive array.


    Lan Chang''an acted as if nothing had happened and returned to his neighboring Water Moon Residence.


    The next day, Lan Chang''an went to the Jin Yun Valley''s station in the Huanglong Immortal City.


    He contacted the cultivators stationed there, preparing to send an urgent message to Zhao Siyao, presenting her with a meritorious deed.


    It''s worth mentioning that Lin Lu had duties at the Jin Yun Valley station, doing odd jobs and errands.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan? I was just about to look for you these past few days."


    In the main hall of the station, a Foundation Establishment aura approached.


    The arrival was a young man with slightly darker skin and an austere appearance - Zhang Tieshan.


    "Does Fellow Daoist Zhang have any instructions?" Lan Chang''an politely paid his respects.


    If not for Zhang Tieshan''s mention of it years ago, he might never have guessed the Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s identity.


    "ording to my intelligence analysis, your neighbor Su Xuetong is suspected of being the Evil-faced Flying Eagle''s mistress."


    "Be extremely careful! You may have dealt with the Evil-faced Flying Eagle before!" Zhang Tieshan spoke sternly.


    Lan Chang''an knew he meant well with this warning.


    As Zhang Tieshan had uncovered this much, if Lan Chang''an urgently contacted Zhao Siyao now, it might be toote.


    Even if he managed to pass the credit to Zhao Siyao, Zhang Tieshan could easily guess the truth.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, this time I was going to speak about the matter of the ''Evil-faced Flying Eagle''." Lan Chang''an privately transmitted his voice.


    He changed his n. Although his rtionship with Zhang Tieshan was not deep, this man pursued evil relentlessly and was upright. With the nickname "ck Iron Face" in the Law Enforcement Hall, he was considered trustworthy.


    Hearing Lan Chang''an''s words, Zhang Tieshan showed a hint of surprise, but not shock.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, please lead me there for an inspection."


    Lan Chang''an sensed that Zhang Tieshan''s words had be a few points more polite.

 Chapter 66: Everyones Happy

    Chapter 66: Everyone''s Happy


    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    A momentter, Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan arrived at Su Xuetong''s courtyard.


    The arrival of a Foundation Establishment cultivator easily drew the attention of nearby cultivators. Lan Chang''an activated a second-rank illusion array that could create the illusion of a vacuum period duringbat.


    Zhang Tieshan surveyed the traces of battle within the courtyard and approached the corpse of the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle.


    As a cultivator of the Law Enforcement Hall, he knew how to conduct autopsies.


    "Although the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle was old and weak, no longer at its peak, it''s truly remarkable that Fellow Daoist Lan could secure victory in this battle."


    After examining the corpse and confirming its identity, Zhang Tieshan couldn''t help but praise.


    When he was at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, he had fought the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle and knew its capabilities.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, may I have this person''s head and identifying items? If you have any needs, feel free to ask." Zhang Tieshan straightforwardly said.Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but think more highly of Zhang Tieshan.


    The other party didn''t even ask about the process of killing the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle, nor did he seek to uncover other cultivators'' secrets.


    Lan Chang''an had already prepared responses for such inquiries.


    Lan Chang''an once assessed that Zhang Tieshan had ordinary qualifications but managed to stably advance to the Foundation Establishment stage. Hisbat talent was extraordinary, possibly due to some fortuitous encounters.


    Moreover, it seemed that Zhang Tieshan, who had just advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage, valued this merit highly?


    "I need several key materials to refine the Foundation Establishment Pill: Xuanling Fruit, Illusory Heart Grass, February Tears..."


    Lan Chang''an stated his primary needs.


    "I have some Illusory Heart Grass, picked from the ck Mist Mountains six months ago. I was nning to exchange it for sect contributions."


    Zhang Tieshan took out a jade box.


    Lan Chang''an epted the jade box and opened it to see a heart-shaped spiritual herb inside. Just one look at it made one''s mind drift.


    It was indeed Illusory Heart Grass, and the portion was veryrge.


    "This Zhang here also has the fur and blood of a second-rank demonic beast, as a talisman master, Fellow Daoist Lan should need it, right?" Zhang Tieshan confidently produced a piece of second-rank beast fur and arge bottle of demonic blood.


    "I do." Lan Chang''an responded without hesitation.


    Second-rank demonic beast fur and blood were raw materials for talisman paper and spiritual ink.


    In his past life, he was a third-rank talisman master, so he naturally knew how to make talisman paper.


    Thisbor-intensive craft could be handed over to the dexterous Guan Qiaozhi, with Lan Chang''an passing on to her the know-how.


    Lan Chang''an epted the second-rank demonic beast fur and blood, satisfied with this transaction.


    A first-rank talisman master, theoretically, could use second-rank talisman paper and spiritual ink; using them to draw first-rank talismans would enhance their quality, though it would be quite wasteful.


    A superior first-rank talisman master aiming to be a second-rank talisman master would also need second-rank materials.


    ...


    Afterpleting the transaction.


    The bodies in the courtyard and the identifying items of the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle all belonged to Zhang Tieshan.


    Zhang Tieshan examined the bisected corpse of the ck eagle and was visibly moved.


    Such a clean cut, killing it instantly, could only be achieved with the power of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an timely exined, "To resolve the crisis at that time, I used a second-rank attack talisman to quickly eliminate this eagle. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have lived to see you today, Brother Zhang." This reply was more or less what Zhang Tieshan''s expected.


    A top-notch first-rank talisman master could potentially craft a low-grade second-rank talisman if they didn''t care about the cost.


    Lan Chang''an''s premium Golden de Talisman had the power to reach the threshold of the Foundation Establishment stage, not far off from an ordinary low-grade second-rank talisman.


    "Brother Lan, can you now draw second-rank talismans?" Zhang Tieshan asked curiously.


    "Far from it! I''ve barely touched that level, and it took a great deal of effort to make just one." Lan Chang''an replied with a bitter smile.


    low-grade second-rank talismans were almost unattainable for Qi-Refining cultivators. But for Foundation Establishment cultivators, it was just an ordinary spell attack.


    Revealing some of his strength was beneficial for Lan Chang''an in forming connections with Foundation Establishment cultivators within the sect.


    Otherwise, with therge gap in their cultivation realm andck of mutual benefits, even if there was friendship, they would be estranged.


    ...


    Next, Lan Chang''an voluntarily recounted the process of killing the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle.


    Zhang Tieshan didn''t ask out of respect.


    Whether to speak about it was a personal choice.


    "Su Xuetong tried to seduce me with her beauty and spread poison fragrance. Fortunately, I was cautious and noticed it, and with my body cultivation, I instantly severely injured her. Then, I cooperated with my peak first-rank spirit pet to kill her."


    Lan Chang''an let the Earth Burrowing Rat show itself briefly.


    "If I hadn''t killed that ck eagle, I definitely wouldn''t have escaped. Therefore, I decisively used my strongest card, the second-rank attack talisman, to instantly y it."


    "Finally, relying on the advantage of my body cultivation and arge number of talismans, I narrowly killed the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle." Lan Chang''an''s ount restored about ny percent of the truth but left out some details about his true strength.


    Zhang Tieshan revealed a look of appreciation as he listened. Since it was a truthful recount, there were no obvious ws.


    However, he wasn''t foolish and guessed that Lan Chang''an might have hidden some details.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan practices body refinement on the side as well? And has reached thete stage of Qi-Refining?" Zhang Tieshan asked with slight surprise.


    He had decent talent in body cultivation but limited time and resources, so he prioritized advancing to the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Currently, Zhang Tieshan''s body cultivation was at the peak ofte stage Qi-Refining.


    "After decades of grinding, my body cultivation has achieved some results. I look forward to discussing it with you in the future, Brother Zhang." Lan Chang''an said modestly.


    Body refinement was quite rare, and in this life, it was the first time Lan Chang''an had encountered another practitioner.


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    Zhang Tieshan cleared the scene and took away the corpse of the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle and rted items.


    Zhang Tieshan agreed to Lan Chang''an''s request to im that he alone killed the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle, not mentioning Lan Chang''an.


    In the Qi-Refining stage, the Evil-faced Flying Eagle was invincible. It made sense that he would be killed by someone in the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, the merit of killing the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle shouldn''t be that important to you?" Before parting, Lan Chang''an curiously asked.


    Both sides were pleased with the transaction.


    He personally gained a lot, obtaining key materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill and second-rank talismans, while letting Zhang Tieshan take the spotlight and attract potential enemies.


    For a Foundation Establishment cultivator, killing a notorious ninth-level Qi-Refining rogue cultivator would only yield some sect contributions and rewards.


    Normally, it wouldn''t be particrly attractive.


    Zhang Tieshan frankly said, "I''m at a critical juncture for promotion within the Law Enforcement Hall and need contributions and reputation."


    Lan Chang''an suddenly understood, "Then I congratte you in advance on your promotion, Fellow Daoist Zhang."


    A Foundation Establishment cultivator holding an important position within the Law Enforcement Hall would make them a significant figure within the sect.


    Deepening rtions with such a person was an unexpected delight.


    "Thanks for your good wishes. The Evil-Faced Flying Eagle wreaked havoc for twenty years, cunning and ruthless. Taking its head back should secure my position." Zhang Tieshan seemed in good spirits and revealed some information.


    Perhaps he valued Lan Chang''an''s potential and wanted to build goodwill.


    "Many years from now, I might be able to witness the day when Brother Zhang bes an elder of the Law Enforcement Hall." Lan Chang''an subtly ttered.


    If Zhang Tieshan really did reach that point, his status would be at least as high as it had been in Lan Chang''an¡¯s previous life. Therefore, the ttery was well deserved.


    Zhang Tieshan smiled without a word.


    His ambitions were so great that revealing them might startle Lan Chang''an.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, no need to see me off."


    Zhang Tieshan gave him a meaningful look and flew away.


    ...


    "Brother Lin, you left too early!"


    Lan Chang''an thought of thete Lin Yi, who had been good friends with Zhang Tieshan.


    Lin Yi had a keen eye.


    Even after Lin Yi''s death, Zhang Tieshan took good care of his descendants, bringing them to Huanglong Immortal City for training, arranging tasks, and bestowing breakthrough pills.


    He truly went above and beyond.


    With such character,bined with the willpower and mental state of the number one disciple at the Illusion Heart tform, it was no wonder he earned the sect elders'' appreciation.


    ...


    Returning to Water Moon Residence.


    Lan Chang''an dismantled the small second-rank concealment array and buried it in his courtyard.


    Why did the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle buy this array instead of an attack array?


    Firstly, this type of second-rank array was cheap and didn''t require much human maniption.


    Secondly, without powerful concealment abilities, ordinary arrays couldn''t hide the sounds ofbat, easily detected by nearby cultivators.


    Combat within the city was prohibited, and if detected by the city''s third-rank grand array,w enforcement cultivators would quickly arrive.


    In the days following Zhang Tieshan''s departure.


    Law enforcement cultivators from Huanglong Immortal City came to seal off Su Xuetong''s courtyard.


    Soon, the explosive news that Su Xuetong was the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle''s concubine spread among the neighbors.


    Du Wei from the adjacent Pill Heart Residence broke out in a cold sweat.


    He invited Lan Chang''an over for a drink to calm their nerves.


    "So, Nie Xiang was the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle in disguise? This viin almost seeded in using my goodwill to reach the Foundation Establishment Realm?" Du Wei shivered with fear.


    If the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle had reached the Foundation Establishment stage, the harm would have been immense.


    If it was discovered that he had helped the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle obtain the Foundation Establishment Pill, Du Wei would have been in big trouble.


    "The Evil-Faced Flying Eagle is dead, Brother Du can rest easy." Lan Chang''an reassured.


    "I''m envious of Brother Lan for knowing a Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Jin Yun Valley Law Enforcement Hall, eliminating potential threats early."


    "By the way, did you assist in killing the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle?" Du Wei asked with a smile.


    "How could I have such ability? It was Brother Zhang who tracked here, inquiring about details and deducing the oue." Lan Chang''an naturally didn''t admit it.


    He had already reaped the benefits, leaving the fame to Zhang Tieshan.


    ...


    The turmoil caused by the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle soon subsided.


    After all, it was just a ninthyer Qi-Refining rogue cultivator. Notorious in small market towns, it was nothing in the Huanglong Immortal City.


    One day.


    Lan Chang''an took out a first-rank Life Extension Pill from the spoils he had sorted.

 Chapter 67: Good and Bad News

    Chapter 67: Good and Bad News


    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Back in the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town, Lan Chang''an once took a Life Extension Pill, which had an astonishing effect, gaining double its normal longevity.


    The power of Evergreen mana slightly increased as well.


    For ordinary cultivators, Life Extension Pills of the same rank cannot have cumtive effects.


    Lan Chang''an presumed that his situation was special, but at that time, he couldn''t openlypete for a second Life Extension Pill.


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged and consumed a first-rank Life Extension Pill obtained from the Evil-faced Flying Eagle.


    The Evergreen mana seemed to have a mind of its own as it swallowed the medicinal pill and absorbed it.


    In an instant, Lan Chang''an sensed the familiar mysterious Qi of the ages.


    Like dead wood encountering spring, spring passing and autumning, the cycle of life, round after round.During this process, Lan Chang''an''s mind seemed to be washed by the passage of time.


    After eight cycles, the effect of the Life Extension Pill dissipated.


    "Extended life by eight years?"


    Lan Chang''an opened his ink-ck eyes, clearly sensing the specific increase in lifespan.


    This time, the life-extension effect was two-tenths weaker thanst time, but it had already exceeded expectations.


    The power of Evergreen mana slightly increased again!


    Its power now clearly surpassedmon techniques, approaching the normal techniques of immortal cultivation sects.


    Of course, it was still far inferior to those techniques renowned for their power or the major family or sect-protecting techniques.


    "My current lifespan limit is 197 years, close to 200 years!"


    Lan Chang''an was very happy, feeling a sense of security.


    Originally, it should have been 198 years.


    Reviving Mu Xiuyun consumed two months, and hatching the Profound Earth Trutle used up another half year of lifespan.


    Reviving Mu Xiuyun was not true resurrection, bringing back the dead.


    It could only be considered a secret technique of rejuvenation, pulling back someone who had half a foot in the gate of the underworld.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an maintained his body well, never getting injured, and never experienced any great rage rage or sorrow. Both his physical and mental states were excellent. Therefore, his theoretical lifespan was hardly depleted.


    This was the true way to live a long life.


    "It seems that in the future, I need to strive for more Life Extension Pills, gather rted materials, and open the furnace to refine them myself." Lan Chang''an sighed.


    He really didn''t want topete with elderly people for lifespan.


    But who doesn''t want a longer life?


    Moreover, while extending lifespan, he could also enhance his magical power.


    ¡­¡­


    In the following year, Lan Chang''an continued to collect materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    After Zhang Tieshan supplemented the Illusory Heart Grass.


    Lan Chang''an was now only missing one primary and one supplementary material for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    The primary material: Xuanling Fruit.


    The supplementary material: February Tears.


    To have collected almost all of the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill by himself was truly a miraculous feat.


    The proportion of materials he personally collected was average.


    Some of the materials were bought by Zhao Siyao in the sect and gifted to him.


    The biggest contribution was from old Brother Nie Xiang.


    If Lan Chang''an were at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining now, he could even use the defective Foundation Establishment Pill to attempt Foundation Establishment.


    However, the defective pill, which even the Evil-faced Flying Eagle did not consider, was naturally not to Lan Chang''an''s liking, he would at most keep it as a backup n.


    To avoid arousing any suspicions, Lan Chang''an bought some more of the materials to make his collection seem more adequate.


    Otherwise, if Lan Chang''an stopped actions immediately after the Evil-faced Flying Eagle died, it would be somewhat abrupt.


    ¡­¡­


    Unknowingly, Lan Chang''an turned fifty-nine.


    It had been more than ten years since he came to Huanglong Immortal City.


    The Taoist Master across the street, Master Guan, was getting old, his body deteriorating day by day.


    Recently, Guan Qiaozhi visited Water Moon Residence less frequently.


    Guan Qiaozhi often went out to set up her stall by herself, shouldering the burden of the family business.


    Fortunately, Guan Qiaozhi, now in the middle stage of Qi-Refining, with Lan Chang''an''s protection, was not bullied in the market area.


    Lan Chang''an visited Old Guan a few times, judging he could live another three years.


    Three yearster, when Lan Chang''an was sixty-two, he estimated he could reach the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    ¡­¡­


    "Xuanling Fruit, too difficult!"


    One day, Lan Chang''an attended arge auction in Huanglong Immortal City, returning disappointed.


    There was no three hundred-year-old Xuangling Fruit at the auction. There were Foundation Establishment Pills for auction instead.


    Cultivators from the major families, sects, and mysterious individuals allpeted.


    Thepetition was far more intense than in the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town back then.


    Dozens of Foundation Establishment cultivators participated in this auction, including even Fake-Dan cultivators!


    Lan Chang''an observed the whole process, not daring to release his spiritual sense, lest thete-stage Foundation Establishment or Fake-Dan cultivators detect any abnormalities.


    For example, spiritual sense inconsistent with his cultivation, or his strong physique.


    Evergreen Technique''s aura concealment ability is strong but he wasn''t sure how well it would work. He was only confident that he could hide from cultivators in the early and middle Foundation Establishment stages. Thete Foundation Establishment stage was a different matter.


    Even if he had the financial means to crush the major forces and obtain the Foundation Establishment Pill, being so high-profile in public, the risks were unpredictable.


    Through this auction.


    Lan Chang''an confirmed again: In the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, it''s almost impossible to obtain Xuangling Fruit through normal channels.


    Back then, Young Master Zhou, who managed to procure Xuangling Fruit, indeed had some connections.


    ¡­¡­


    "The main material, Xuangling Fruit, is notpletely irreceable."


    Lan Chang''an remembered more than one form for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Certain special second-rank monster cores could rece the Xuangling Fruit, with only minor adjustments needed to the form and refining method.


    These monster cores were simr to a cultivator''s dantian, the core where mana was stored.


    The monster cores of third-rank monsters evolved into "inner dan," equivalent to the true dan or golden dan of Core Formation cultivators.


    Huanglong Immortal City, adjacent to the ck Fog Mountain Range, also had methods circting to rece the main material of the Foundation Establishment Pill with special monster cores.


    However, obtaining such special monster cores was costly and had many restrictions.


    First, the quality requirements for the monster cores were high.


    Only some superior-grade bloodlines and earth-grade bloodline monsters'' second-level monster cores met the requirements.


    Second-level monsters were as powerful as Foundation Establishment cultivators, with the superior or earth-grade bloodline monsters being exceptionally strong, posing a danger even to ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Second, the purity of the monster core had to be high, and the power contained couldn''t be too violent, otherwise, it couldn''t be harmonized with the other materials of the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    For example, monster cores of fire or thunder elements, even if they were of earth or heaven-grade bloodlines, would not meet the conditions.


    Compared to Xuangling Fruit, the channels to obtain special monster cores were slightly more extensive.


    However, the risks were greater, requiring one to venture into the ck Fog Mountain Range to hunt.


    For example, the Evil-faced Flying Eagle never considered this route.


    He couldn''t even defeat ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators, let alone obtain such special monster cores.


    In the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, many Foundation Establishment cultivators seeking Foundation Establishment for their descendants met their end in the ck Fog Mountain Range while searching for such special monster cores.


    ¡­¡­


    The monster core method was just Lan Chang''an''s backup n.


    His physical body wasparable to a second-rank monster. By the ninth rank of Qi-Refining, his mana would be stronger. With some second-rank talismans, he indeed had the ability to kill second-rank monsters.


    But he wouldn''t venture alone.


    If he could refine strong second-rank talismans and had a trusted Foundation Establishment cultivator as the main force, he might consider it.


    Squeak, squeak!


    In the courtyard, the Earth Burrowing Rat carried a letter over, looking ttering.


    Among Water Moon Residence, the Earth Burrowing Rat had the highest cultivation but the lowest status.


    Lan Chang''an saw it was a letter from Li Erqing.


    The letter contained one good news and one bad news.


    *Author Notes;


    I have a piece of good news and bad news to tell everyone.


    The bad news is that for the next two or three days, I can only update about 4,000 words per day. Normal updates will resume after Friday.


    The good news is that the novel''s sales are pretty decent. The editor is helping me apply for a good rmendation slot, but it can''t exceed 200,000 words. This way, the book can gain more exposure, and if there are good results, I can have a stable and long life like our protagonist.


    I hope everyone can click to follow and vote in support.*


    TL/Basically the next 8 chapters will be 400-500 words shorter.

 Chapter 68: Ershuns Tribute

    Chapter 68: Ershun''s Tribute


    The good news is:


    Li Erqing''s ninth son, Mu Jiuan, was out collecting herbs when he was noticed by a passing Immortal who took him as a disciple.


    The identity of this Immortal is mysterious; Li Erqing and his son had never heard of him in the Liang Kingdom.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s first thought wasn¡¯t that Mu Jiuan had good fortune, but that something was fishy about this letter. Perhaps there were some details left out.


    Mu Jiuan''s qualifications were close to high-grade spiritual roots, which was indeed impressive, but not enough to particrly move a Core Formation cultivator.


    Most who could achieve Fake-Dan started out with high-grade spiritual roots.


    Those who could achieve True Dan often had earth-grade spiritual roots.


    High-grade spiritual roots are not considered scarce resources in the eyes of Immortals.


    "Could it be that Mu Jiuan possesses hidden Innate Treasure Body? Or is there some hidden truth in this matter..." Lan Chang''an pondered.Innate Treasure Bodies were too rare; Lan Chang''an had only seen a few cases in his previous life.


    Mu Jiuan was taken away by that Immortal.


    Lan Chang''an could easily guess: that Immortal had most likely given Li Erqing, the father, some benefits.


    "This guy, he ate another wave of benefits from having children."


    ...


    And as for the bad news, the Huang Family, after years of effort, finally formed a marriage alliance with the Beast Taming Zhou Family, bing friendly with one or two branches of it.


    What¡¯s worse, the Beast Taming Zhou Family and the Ten Thousand Swords Zhuo Family had a conflict, and the affiliated cultivation families of both sides had already gone to war.


    The Zhou Family''s energy was diverted, making it difficult for them to care for the distant Mu Family at Feiyue Lake which is at the edge of its influence.


    This was very disadvantageous for the Mu Family.


    "The Maple Leaf Huang Family made steady progress, first giving concessions to the Beast Taming Zhou Family to gain their understanding. Then, through the interests tied to the market, they wooed the Zhou Family, and eventually, after many years, they formed a marriage alliance with one or two branches."


    Lan Chang''an, who had run a family in his previous life, had long anticipated the strategies of the Huang Family''s leader.


    The Huang Family''s strategy was not achieved overnight. It was aplished subtly over twenty or thirty years.


    The Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town was a crucial link, generating substantial profits for the Huang Family, providing them with enough financial resources to implement their many ns.


    Stable operations, dormant for twenty or thirty years.


    The Huang Family''s power had reached unprecedented heights, and they had even produced a fourth Foundation Establishment expert.


    Now, the opportunity had finally arrived!


    Once the conflict between the Zhou Family and the Ten Thousand Swords Zhou family escted, they would have no time to spare for Feiyue Lake.


    ...


    When Li Erqing wrote this letter, his cultivation had reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, and he had been promoted to an elder of the Mu Family despite being of a different surname.


    The letter mentioned at the end:


    His second son, Mu Ershun, would bring a gift to Huanglong Immortal City to pay tribute to Lan Chang''an.


    After reading the letter, Lan Chang''an realized the potential crisis faced by the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake.


    Li Erqing''s life changes were quite dramatic.


    From a peasant background to joining a cultivation family by marriage, and in a few decades, he had be a family elder?


    His life experience could be written into a book.


    "From Farmer to Joining a Cultivation Family."


    Lan Chang''an even thought of the title for the biography, which would be eye-catching. Adding some tititing details, it would surely be a bestseller.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    A young man with thick eyebrows and big eyes, with an honest face, arrived on a flying boat in the northern mountains of the Liang Kingdom.


    "This is Huanglong Immortal City!"


    The young man looked shocked, gazing at the towering, crystal-yellow giant city spanning hundreds of miles.


    Inparison, Feiyue Vi looked like a tiny grasshopper.


    Cultivators flying by lights of the Foundation Establishment cultivators made his heart race.


    "It''s much more prosperous than the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town! No wonder Uncle Lan abandoned the family to seek opportunities here." Entering the Immortal City, the young man looked around curiously, his eyes wide open.


    The young man, who bore a striking resemnce to Li Erqing, was Mu Ershun.


    After asking around, Mu Ershun entered the inner city of Huanglong and found the station of the Jin Yun Valley.


    "Excuse me, is Lin Lu here?" Mu Ershun inquired of the Jin Yun Valley cultivators guarding the gate.


    After a while, a young man walked out from inside the base.


    The young man was slender, with short whiskers on his chin. Seeing Mu Ershun, he hesitated for a moment.


    "Are you Mu Ershun?"


    "Haha! It''s been years, and Brother Lin can still recognize me at a nce." Mu Ershunughed heartily.


    "Brother Ershun still has the same elegance. How could I not recognize you? I''ve been wanting to visit Bamboo Leaf Mountain to see Brother Ershun." Lin Lu seemed very hospitable. There was no trace of the arrogance he had possessed in the past.


    Twenty years ago, they had first met in a shop on Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    At that time, Lin Lu, as a disciple of the sect, looked down on Mu Ershun, who was only an entry-level apprentice.


    But after his father¡¯s death, Lin Lu¡¯s life had fallen into disarray. Lin Lu decided to learn from his mistakes, and decided to reconnect with his father''s old friends.


    More than ten years ago, at his lowest point, he went to Bamboo Leaf Mountain to borrow spirit stones from Mu Ershun. Aftering to Huanglong Immortal City, they asionally kept in touch by letters.


    "Brother Ershun is here to visit Uncle Lan, right? I''ll lead you there. Why don¡¯t you stop by my house for some tea while you¡¯re at it?"


    After reporting to the station, Lin Lu took Mu Ershun to Jinxiu Lane.


    Lin Lu''s residence was conveniently located between the Jin Yun Valley base and Lan Chang''an''s residence.


    Facing the cheerful and friendly Mu Ershun, Lin Lu felt a bit guilty.


    "Ershun came to Huanglong Immortal City to find me first; he can''t be here to collect the debt, right?" He still hadn''t repaid the spirit stones he borrowed from Mu Ershun.


    It wasn''t that Lin Lu was deliberately dragging it out.


    In recent years, after marrying and starting a family in Huanglong Immortal City, his expenses had increased sharply.


    His wife said that renting a house was unstable, so the couple bought the rented house and incurred a twenty-year mortgage debt.


    Huanglong Immortal City had legitimate moneylenders, but the interest rates weren''t low.


    Nowadays, Lin Lu was living frugally, and his finances were tight.


    Lin Lu actually didn''t want to buy a house, but his wife, who came from a cultivation family in the city, had a generous dowry and was more assertive than he was.


    ...


    Passing by Lin Lu''s house.


    "Brother Ershun, this is my wife, Li Qiuyue." Lin Lu introduced them.


    "Sister Qiu, this is my close friend, Mu Ershun, a senior middle-grade talisman master."


    "Hello, sister-inw! I¡¯ve brought a small gift on behalf of my father." Mu Ershun sized up Lin Lu''s wife, her looks were mediocre, not as pretty as his own wife.


    He took out fifty spirit stones and a talisman box.


    "Brother Ershun! This is too much¡ª" Lin Lu felt ashamed and quickly refused. He thought Ershun was here to collect a debt, but instead, he brought a generous gift.


    "Brother Ershun! This is too much for a present!"


    Li Qiuyue''s eyes lit up as she quickly epted the spirit stones and talisman box, giving Lin Lu a surprised nce.


    Her eyes seemed to say: You, a poor man, have such a generous friend?


    When they got married, Lan Chang''an only gave thirty spirit stones and a few middle-grade talismans.


    Li Qiuyue, rarely showing any signs of being virtuous, served tea and poured water.


    After drinking the tea, Mu Ershun was about to visit Uncle Lan.


    Lin Lu apanied him and sighed, "It took me over thirty years of life to understand my father''sst wishes. If I had been half as diligent as Uncle Lan back then, cultivating hard and avoiding women, I wouldn''t still be at the bottom of the sect."


    Lin Yi had advised him on his deathbed to learn from Uncle Lan''s steady demeanor and humility.


    Over the years, Lin Lu had regretted not taking his father''s dying words to heart.


    Mu Ershun praised, "Uncle Lan is indeed admirable, not marrying or having children for decades, being outstanding in talisman making, yet staying humble and practical. My father once said Uncle Lan is a benefactor to our family."


    "Uncle Lan can interact with Senior Aunt Zhao and Senior Uncle Zhang, two Foundation Establishment cultivators, as equals. Such capability is beyond the reach of ordinary cultivators." Lin Lu, working in the Jin Yun Valley base, knew more about Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    A quarter of an hourter.


    Mu Ershun and Lin Lu arrived at Water Moon Residence.


    An innocent and yful blue-skirted maid greeted the two of them.


    Mu Ershun was secretly surprised: Uncle Lan''s maid had a far better appearance and temperament than his own wife,parable to his second mother, Mu Caiwei, in her younger days.


    In the courtyard, a spirit turtle the size of a fan was resting by the pond.


    Seeing strangers, the turtle''s round eyes curiously observed them, looking cute and silly.


    "Earth-grade spirit beast, Profound Water Turtle." Mu Ershun''s heart stirred, recalling some rumors from Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    Entering the house.


    A gentle and serene man in white stood tall, appearing before them.


    "Young nephew, pays respects to Uncle Lu!" Mu Ershun respectfully bowed.


    After more than ten years, seeing the familiar figure unaffected by time again, he felt emotional, and his eyes were moist.


    ...


    <em>Author Notes</em>


    <em>Li Erqing''s cultivation speed is quite normal, reaching the ninthyer of Qi-Refining at over fifty years old. Although he possesses a low-grade spiritual root, the protagonist''s wood spiritual root is also low-grade and is subject to time constraints.</em>


    <em>Moreover, Li Erqing relies on having children to continually obtain resources and can use pills to enhance his progress.</em>


    <em>Referencing "A Record of a Mortal''s Journey to Immortality," Han Li relied on taking pills to reach Foundation Establishment at the age of 25, although the longevity and spiritual root settings in this book are slightly different.</em>


    <em>Li Erqing doesn''t have such great opportunities, only benefiting slightly from the protagonist''s luck. Reaching the ninthyer of Qi-Refining at this age is perfectly reasonable.</em>

 Chapter 69: Qi-Refining Ninth Layer

    Chapter 69: Qi-Refining Ninth Layer


    To Mu Ershun, Lan Chang''an was not only his Uncle but also his talisman arts mentor.


    This rtionship was second only to his biological father.


    Mu Ershun, now thirty-seven or thirty-eight years old, nearly forty, had reached the seventhyer of Qi-Refining and was a senior middle-grade talisman master. He could not have gotten to where he was today without Lan Chang''an''s support.


    "Ershun, it''s been many years. You look more and more like your father." Lan Chang''an smiled, noticing Mu Ershun''s slightly protruding belly.


    He beckoned Mu Ershun and Lin Lu to sit down.


    "Uncle Lan, this is a gift my father asked me to bring." Mu Ershun handed over a storage pouch.


    Lan Chang''an opened the storage pouch, and with a quick nce, he was slightly moved.


    Inside the storage pouch were materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill, worth hundreds of spirit stones.


    These materials did not ovep with the ones Zhao Siyao had gifted him back then."I appreciate your father''s kindness." Lan Chang''an did not decline and epted the materials.


    Even though these materials mostly ovepped with what he had already collected, one particr jade bottle caught his attention.


    It contained a clear liquid, which was precisely the auxiliary medicine February Tears that Lan Chang''an currentlycked.


    February Tears was not particrly valuable or effective on its own; it required a specific environment to form and was hard toe by.


    With this, Lan Chang''an onlycked the Xuanling Fruit for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "Given Erqing''s status, he might only have worked part-time as a spiritual nter husband. Could he easily gather such resources? Moreover, he also aims to achieve Foundation Establishment." Lan Chang''an sensed something amiss.


    He immediately inquired about Mu Jiuan''s situation.


    "Jiuan was epted as a disciple by a Foundation Establishment senior and left Feiyue Lake a year ago," Mu Ershun replied.


    This statement differed from what was mentioned in the letter.


    Li Erqing was no longer the simple peasant boy he once was; he had rich life experiences and it was normal for him to be more reserved.


    Lan Chang''an spected that there were hidden details in this matter not mentioned in the letter.


    Mu Ershun''s visit to Huanglong Immortal City was mainly to convey greetings from his father and present a tribute.


    He stayed for two days, received guidance on talisman arts from Lan Chang''an, and then left Huanglong Immortal City.


    ...


    Two yearster.


    Lan Chang''an, now sixty-one years old, was close to reaching the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    On this day, news of Master Guan''s death arrived.


    The death was sudden, earlier than Lan Chang''an had expected.


    Guan Qiaozhi cried until she looked like a tear-streaked mess, ming herself for being distracted and not taking good care of her master.


    Lan Chang''an examined the body and confirmed it was a natural death.


    In the months before his death, Master Guan had secretly purchased life-extending supplements.


    Initially, these supplements made him feel more energetic, but they ultimately drained his body''s functions, acting as a poison.


    Master Guan was Lan Chang''an''s guide into the world of cultivation in this life.


    Out of respect, Lan Chang''an helped Guan Qiaozhi arrange the funeral.


    ording to Master Guan''sst wishes, everything was kept simple, and his ashes were scattered in the mountains around Huanglong Immortal City.


    Guan Qiaozhi, as his disciple, observed a hundred days of mourning.


    Afterwards, she officially moved into Water Moon Residence, taking care of Lan Chang''an''s daily life.


    ...


    When Guan Qiaozhi moved in, Lan Chang''an did not hold a banquet nor perform a wedding ceremony.


    This made Guan Qiaozhi feel somewhat disappointed.


    If it were a concubinage, some cultivators would notify friends and family and host a banquet to show importance.


    Lan Chang''an''s indifference indicated he was more inclined to treat her as a maid rather than a concubine.


    Lan Chang''an noticed Guan Qiaozhi''s slight discontent and had a conversation with her.


    "Qiaozhi, you still have a chance to reconsider your two choices from back then." Lan Chang''an, out of respect for Master Guan, was willing to take in this girl.


    Guan Qiaozhi indeed had her uses in managing household chores, taking care of pets, making talisman papers, and warming the bed, which Lan Chang''an didn''t mind.


    But she was not essential.


    "Senior Brother Lan, I do not regret my decision back then. Even as a maid, I am willing to serve you forever." Guan Qiaozhi said with clear, determined eyes. She was willing to serve Lan Chang''an, a decision made after careful consideration.


    First, Lan Chang''an had connections and a stable future as a senior superior-grade talisman master.


    Second, Lan Chang''an was reliable, and his appearance and temperament both appealed to her.


    Although Lan Chang''an was decades older than her, such an age difference was negligible in the cultivation world.


    Of course, Guan Qiaozhi''s willingness likely had some personal motives beyond these two points.


    If Lan Chang''an was lucky enough to seed in achieving Foundation Establishment, her status would rise ordingly.


    Common sense told her: "At sixty-one, the chances of failing to achieve Foundation Establishment are higher."


    Lan Chang''an had no close rtives.


    Upon his death at a hundred years, as a first-rank superior-grade talisman master, his umted wealth would rightfully be inherited by Guan Qiaozhi.


    ...


    After Guan Qiaozhi officially moved in, Water Moon Residence was well-managed.


    Daily chores, delicious meals, pet care, and preparation of talisman materials were all handled impably.


    Lan Chang''an had much peace of mind, enjoying the same treatment Master Guan had in the past, as if he had gained anotheryer of warmth.


    He could focus more on cultivation, body refinement, and grinding his skills, or go out to make friends.


    Half a yearter.


    In Water Moon Residence, inside a secret room.


    A surge of mana fluctuated, bringing a faint spiritual pressure.


    "At sixty, I have reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining."


    Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, filled with the sediment of time and the cycle of the seasons.


    His mana within him increased by twenty to thirty percent, faintly approaching the upper limit of the Qi-Refining stage.


    As expected, it took him nine years to advance from the eighth to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    In this life, he was now sixty-two, entering his sixties.


    As a concubine, Guan Qiaozhi calling him "old master" would not be out of ce.


    The longevity benefits of the Evergreen Technique made Lan Chang''an appear about twenty years old.


    With jade-like features and an ethereal, tranquil aura, dressed in a white robe, he exuded serenity.


    This youthfulness was not merely a superficial thing but rather a jade-like quality that radiated from within.


    Lan Chang''an usually restrained his aura to avoid standing out too much.


    "At sixty, I reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining. By seventy, I should be able to reach Foundation Establishment." Lan Chang''an had long estimated this.


    Reaching the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining would take as much time as advancing from the eighth to the ninthyer.


    In theory, one could attempt Foundation Establishment at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Most cultivators, for deeper foundations, chose to attempt Foundation Establishment at the peak of the ninthyer.


    At Lan Chang''an''s feet, the Profound Water Turtle greedily absorbed the residual aura of the Evergreen Technique.


    The turtle''s actual cultivation was not far from the mid-stage of the first rank.


    The turtle was adept at concealing its aura and was in perfect harmony with Lan Chang''an. It never revealed its magical abilities to anyone other than him.


    Guan Qiaozhi, not proficient in beast taming, couldn''t discern its true nature despite their frequent contact.


    "Congrattions, Senior Brother Lan, on advancing to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining." Two dayster, when Lan Chang''an emerged from seclusion, Guan Qiaozhi was waiting outside.


    She had a charming and beautiful face, and she wore a light beige robe that showed off her lithe figure and delicate charm.


    That day, Guan Qiaozhi prepared a table of delicious spiritual food to celebrate, greatly satisfying Lan Chang''an''s appetite.


    With the advancement in cultivation, Lan Chang''an was in an exceptionally good mood.


    Guan Qiaozhi''s eyes sparkled, her lips lightly parted, and her cheeks blushed.


    After cleaning up, she withdrew.


    In the middle of the night.


    After drawing a few talismans, Lan Chang''an emerged from the talisman room.


    "Senior Brother Lan, your concubine is waiting for you to bath." came a soft, enchanting voice from outside.


    Guan Qiaozhi, draped only in a sheer white gauze, almost transparent, revealed her delicate and curvaceous figure.


    Outside the gauze, her smooth, jade-like shoulders and long, snow-white legs were like a feast for the eyes.

 Chapter 70: News of the Key Material

    "Hmm."


    Lan Chang''an noticed Guan Qiaozhi''s resentful gaze. Feeling good today, he didn''t mind having an extra dinner.


    Guan Qiaozhi was obedient and considerate, hardworking, and neverined.


    If he let her stay alone in an empty room all the time, it would be a disservice to the dying wish of Master Guan.


    Having received his permission, the young girl wrapped in a singleyer of white silk gently led the man several decades older than herself into the bathroom.


    ......


    The next morning.


    On the messy bed, Lan Chang''an felt refreshed, with a lingering fragrance beside the pillow.


    Although Guan Qiaozhi was not a stunning beauty, her voice was soft, her body tender, pure yet charming, with a unique vor."Senior Brother Lan, this is the nourishing soup I made." Guan Qiaozhi, now in a blue long dress, looked bright and graceful, though her legs were slightly stiff.


    "I don''t need to nourish myself." Lan Chang''an nced at it. The soup had ingredients that boosted yang energy, so he raised his hand to refuse.


    Throughout his long years of cultivation, Lan Chang''an had maintained a regimen of abstinence and self-restraint. When he asionally had physiological needs, they could easily be dispelled with cultivation.


    However, this method of self-restraint was ultimately inferior. asionally indulging in one¡¯s natural desires was also in ordance with the way of heaven and human nature.


    Everything had its limits. Whether it was overindulgence or excessive restraint, neither was good for the body and mind.


    ......


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an disguised himself as an elderly man in his seventies to attend a small auction in the inner city of Huanglong.


    This auction did not have any cultivators above thete Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen Technique concealed his aura, so he was not afraid of being noticed. He sessfully bid for a first-rank Life Extension Pill at the auction.


    After returning.


    Lan Chang''an entered a secret room and took the newly purchased first-rank Life Extension Pill.


    "Extended lifespan by six years."


    Lan Chang''an opened his eyes. The effect of the third Life Extension Pill was within his expectations.


    "With the addition of three Life Extension Pills, my lifespan has finally exceeded two hundred!" Lan Chang''an''s heart was filled with emotions.


    A two-hundred-year lifespan was close to the theoretical limit of two hundred and forty years for the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Normally, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, if not falling midway, could live to around two hundred years.


    ......


    With no worries about lifespan and cultivation at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining. Lan Chang''an''s next focus was naturally the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    He no longer hoped for a three-hundred-year-old Xuanling Fruit. He could always rely on crowd-funding to get the pill concocted.


    If lucky, and he ran into a cultivator like Young Master Zhou again, Lan Chang''an would provide more material shares than the Evil-faced Flying Eagle back then, and could at least secure the second priority for the pill.


    If Alchemist Hua performed normally, two Foundation Establishment Pills could be produced.


    When crowdfunding for a pill, Lan Chang''an had a fifty percent chance of getting a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill.


    One day.


    Lan Chang''an revisited Du Wei''s house to inquire about any new developments.


    "Brother Lan, over the years, many cultivators have sought my master''s help to refine the Foundation Establishment Pill. Currently, there is still a shortage of ''Xuanling Fruit'' and ''Illusory Heart Grass'' and other rare materials. Other than that, we¡¯re pretty much set."


    Having known each other for over a decade, they had long since stopped being formal with each other. Du Wei always informed him of any new news in a timely manner.


    "By the way, there is news of Xuanling Fruit in Huanglong Immortal City." Du Wei suddenly thought of something and said.


    "Oh, there is a clue about Xuanling Fruit?"


    Lan Chang''an showed interest.


    "Last time, I heard from a senior of the Alchemy Alliance that the final disciple of Huanglong Immortal, Fu Xuemei, obtained a Xuanling Fruit of decent age."


    "Fu Xuemei?"


    Having been in Huanglong Immortal City for so many years, Lan Chang''an had heard of this name.


    Fu Xuemei, with an Earth spiritual root aptitude, was taken in as the final disciple by Immortal Huanglong many years ago and is highly regarded by him.<sup>1</sup>


    She was a big figure that Lan Chang''an could not currently touch.


    "Fu Xuemei is a Foundation Establishment cultivator. The Xuanling Fruit seems to be of little use to her?" Lan Chang''an asked in confusion.


    As an earth spirit root, even if Fu Xuemei were only in the ninth level of Qi Condensation, she would have a fifty percent chance of reaching Foundation Establishment.


    If she were a heavenly spirit root, she would have few bottlenecks to ovee on her way to Core Formation.


    ¡°Heh heh. This has to do with Fu Xuemei¡¯s personal affairs. If it weren¡¯t for our long friendship, I wouldn¡¯t tell you about this so easily.¡± Du Wei lowered his voice and spoke in a very suggestive tone.


    ¡°Of course Fu Xuemei doesn¡¯t need a Xuanling Fruit.¡±


    ¡°But her brother, with his inferior spiritual root, failed in his attempt to breakthrough even with the Foundation Establishment Pill. Fu Xuemei refused to give up and is working on a second one!¡±


    Inferior spiritual root?


    Forcing an attempt at the Foundation Establishment stage?


    If it didn¡¯t work the first time, why try again?


    Even after two lifetimes of experience, Lan Chang''an was still shocked by this news.


    ¡°Fu Xuemei has invested so many resources into helping her brother that it¡¯s affected her cultivation progress. Otherwise, she would have reached mid-Foundation Establishment years ago.¡±


    Du Wei sighed. ¡°What a devoted sister.¡±


    Lan Chang''an remained unmoved. ording to the way men thought on Earth, a woman like Fu Xuemei was not someone you wanted to marry.


    ¡°The dry ones die of drought, and the flooded ones die of waterlogging.¡±


    After getting all the information he needed, Lan Chang''an returned to Water Moon Residence.


    The Xuanling Fruit he had been searching for for so many years had been used by Fu Xuemei to feed her useless younger brother.


    He had no desire whatsoever to take the Xuanling Fruit from her hands.


    In another seven or eight years, if nothing else worked, he would consider using a different method to concoct the Foundation Establishment Pill without using Xuanling Fruit.


    Lan Chang''an had asked Du Wei about it before. Alchemist Hua¡¯s method was quitemon in the Huanglong Immortal City.


    Two monthster, Du Wei suddenly contacted Lan Chang''an to discuss the matter.


    ¡°You¡¯re saying that Fu Xuemei wants to find someone to cooperate with her in concocting Foundation Establishment Pills? She¡¯ll provide the Xuanling Fruit, and the other party will provide the other ingredients. Then, after the pills are finished being concocted, they¡¯ll be split evenly between the two parties?¡±


    Lan Chang''an was shocked by this news. What a coincidence! It was as if it had been tailor-made for him!


    ¡°I heard that Fu Xuemei is currently broke because she¡¯s been helping her younger brother with his cultivation. That¡¯s why she¡¯s looking for someone to cooperate with.¡± Du Wei exined further.


    Lan Chang''an shrugged. ¡°Brother Du, you don¡¯t think I can gather all the other ingredients, do you?¡±


    ¡°Ha ha! Of course not!¡±


    ¡°What I¡¯m saying is, if Brother Lan has already gathered quite a few of the ingredients, you can find someone to cooperate with and quickly gather the rest of the ingredients. Then, you can go find Fu Xuemei and work with her.¡±


    ¡°Then, not only will you have a chance to get some Foundation Establishment Pills, but you''ll also be able to get on good terms with Huanglong Immortal''s final disciple.¡±


    Du Wei smiled as he gave his advice.


    Lan Chang''an understood. Alchemist Hua wanted to curry favor with Fu Xuemei. After all, they didn¡¯t need to provide any of the ingredients themselves. They only needed to act as a bridge and would be able to sell a favor.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disappoint you, Brother Du!¡±


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment before making his decision.


    ¡°I¡¯ve only gathered about half of the ingredients. Plus, I heard that Fu Xuemei is very aloof and difficult to deal with. I think I¡¯ll pass on this matter!¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s refusal caught Du Wei by surprise.


    He stared at Lan Chang''an for a moment but didn¡¯t try to change his mind. If Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t interested, he could always find other cultivators who wanted to concoct Foundation Establishment Pills and act as a bridge between them and Fu Xuemei.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an had his reasons for refusing.


    If Fu Xuemei were an ordinary Foundation Establishment expert, like Zhao Siyao, he would have been more than happy to cooperate.


    However, Fu Xuemei was an earth spirit root genius and a final disciple valued by the Huanglong Immortal.


    The difference in status between the two of them was like the difference between heaven and earth. When the difference between two parties was too great, any so-called cooperation would bepletely one-sided.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t like the idea of losing control and being at the mercy of someone else.


    He would rather pass up an opportunity to get Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Fu Xuemei had many powerful friends and was far too high above Lan Chang''an. He had no desire to associate with her.


    Footnotes: <ol> <li>The term "¹ØÃŵÜ×Ó" (gu¨¡nm¨¦n d¨¬z¨«) trantes to "final disciple" or "closed-door disciple." It refers to thest disciple epted by a master before retiring from teaching, often indicating a special status and a closer rtionship with the master. ?</li> </ol>

 Chapter 71: Middle-Grade Second-Rank

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Returning to Water Moon Residence.


    Lan Chang''an was very patient and continued to wait for opportunities.


    After all, he had plenty of lifespan and still needed some years to cultivate to the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    "Senior Brother Lan, these are the spirit stones from the sale of talismans in the past month." On this day, Guan Qiaozhi handed a bag containing spirit stones to Lan Chang''an.


    After Master Guan passed away.


    Guan Qiaozhi no longer set up a stall and devoted herself to serving Lan Chang''an, processing raw materials needed for drawing talismans.


    The talismans drawn by Lan Chang''an were sold by Guan Qiaozhi, who liaised with familiar customers.


    Living in Jinxiu Lane for over a decade, the talismans Lan Chang''an sold earned a good reputation, and he currently had a stable batch of customers.Lan Chang''an, now over sixty years old, disyed the skills of a top-tier first-rank talisman master. Everything was falling into ce.


    "Keep these ten spirit stones for your personal expenses." Lan Chang''an left some spirit stones for Guan Qiaozhi.


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Lan." Guan Qiaozhi said, her pretty eyes sparkled.


    In the evening, Lan Chang''an prepared to draw talismans, with all materials prepared in advance.


    "Senior Brother Lan, I''ll help you prepare the spirit ink." Guan Qiaozhi entered the talisman room.


    She wore a translucent gauze dress without any inner garments, paired with her delicate, pure, and youthful face, making her look innocently seductive.


    Lan Chang''an nced at her. "Change your clothes."


    "Uh-huh."


    Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s face burned like a cloud lit by fire. She quickly went back to her room and changed into a long dress that covered all the way down her calves.


    Lan Chang''an nodded in satisfaction.


    After Guan Qiaozhi prepared the spirit ink and left the talisman room, he began drawing talismans.


    ......


    In the blink of an eye, three years had passed.


    Lan Chang''an was now sixty-five years old.


    He had not obtained the Xuanling Fruit. At least within Alchemist Hua''s circle, no one had provided this item.


    But Huanglong Immortal City was not the only ce.


    Someone else in the Huanglong Immortal City might have had one, but Lan Chang¡¯an and Du Wei were both Qi-Refining cultivators, and their social circles were limited.


    However, the Xuanling Fruit in Fu Xuemei''s possession did eventually lead to some results.


    A disciple from Alchemist Hua''s lineage helped bridge the connection.


    A ninthyer Qi-Refining family cultivator paid a considerable price, cooperating with others to provide the remaining materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    This time, Alchemist Hua performed well, refining three Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Two were genuine, and one was inferior.


    The cooperation was sessful.


    The family cultivator not only obtained the Foundation Establishment Pill but also established good rtions with Fu Xuemei.


    Two years ago, when Lan Chang''an learned of this, he remained silent for a moment.


    If he had cooperated back then, he would have already obtained a standard Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Sometimes, being too cautious indeed reduces risks, but it also misses some opportunities.


    "Good fortune is mine when I get it. It is my fate when I lose it."


    Lan Chang''an practiced his Life-Nurturing Technique and quickly adjusted his mindset without dwelling on the matter.


    Actually, he also received good news.


    Watching for so many years, Alchemist Hua''s alchemy skills had significantly improved.


    ording to Du Wei, Alchemist Hua touched the threshold of a superior-grade second-rank alchemist, though he hadn''t truly stepped into it.


    In terms of alchemy expertise, excluding alchemists from major forces, Alchemist Hua was one of the best in Huanglong Immortal City.


    As for Du Wei, due to having many wives and children and indulging in pleasure, he only touched the threshold of a low-grade second-rank alchemist over the years.


    ......


    In the past three years.


    Due to stepping into the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense further increased, reaching about thirty-seven or thirty-eight zhang.


    Normally, the spiritual sense range of early Foundation Establishment was around thirty zhang.


    This meant Lan Chang''an''s spiritual strength slightly exceeded that of an ordinary early Foundation Establishment.


    The benefit brought about by this was the increase in Lan Chang''an''s ability to draw talismans.


    At the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, he could only draw low-grade second-rank talismans, which were considered strong trump cards.


    Now, he could attempt to draw middle-grade second-rank talismans. However, due to the limitations of mana and materials, the sess rate was low.


    Lan Chang''an selected better low-grade second-rank talisman paper, paying a considerable price. Relying on his exquisite skills as a third-rank talisman master from his previous life, he refined three middle-grade second-rank talismans.


    What do middle-grade second-rank talismans mean?


    Guided and controlled by Lan Chang''an''s strong spiritual sense, they could unleash the power of mid-stage Foundation Establishment spells.


    Used appropriately, they could injure or even kill early Foundation Establishment in actualbat.


    Of course, if it were a normalte Qi-Refining cultivator, even if they obtained middle-grade second-rank talismans, they would find it difficult to guide and control them urately, significantly reducing their threat to Foundation Establishment. If not controlled properly, they might even harm themselves.


    ......


    "Senior Brother Lan, there will be arge auction in Huanglong Immortal City soon. Will you attend?"


    In the courtyard, Guan Qiaozhi, who had just changed the water for the Pround Water Turtle''s pond, asked with sparkling eyes, full of anticipation.


    "I''m not going. During the auction, it''s very lively around. You can buy something you like." Lan Chang''an handed Guan Qiaozhi a small bag of spirit stones.


    "Thank you, Senior Brother Lan. While I''m not here, this puppet dog can help look after the house."


    Guan Qiaozhi smiled happily and took out a seven-foot-long puppet dog from her storage pouch. The materials seemed to be a mix of wood and metal, with deep green eyes that moved slightly.


    Guan Qiaozhi performed a simple puppet control technique, and the puppet dog began running around the courtyard.


    The Profound Water Turtle was startled and dived into the pond with a ssh.


    Guan Qiaozhi''s puppet dog was a gift from the puppet master neighbor, Sang. Because of her skillful hands, she had once helped Sang with some puppet parts.


    Lan Chang''an observed for a moment, showing a peculiar expression.


    Although this puppet dog was only low-grade first-rank, its rtively agile movements indicated a crafting skill exceeding that of an ordinary superior-grade first-rank puppet master.


    With his previous life¡¯s experience as a core formation cultivator, Lan Chang''an noticed the details.


    When Lan Chang''an first moved into Water Moon Residence, he had dealings with Puppet Master Sang.


    At that time, Sang imed he could only create middle-grade first-rank puppets.


    "In the past twenty years, has Puppet Master Sang''s skill significantly improved, or was he hiding his true ability back then?" Lan Chang''an pondered.


    If Sang could create top superior-grade first-rank puppets, it would be a regrbat strength supplement for him.


    After all, the Evergreen Technique was not good atbat; it might take him hundreds of years to achieve a qualitative change.


    ......


    The date of therge auction in Huanglong Immortal City approached.


    Lan Chang''an had attended suchrge-scale auctions before, wherete Foundation Establishment and even Fake-Dan cultivators were present.


    Even if he attended, he wouldn''t dare to act rashly.


    It was better to avoid unnecessary trouble and not participate.


    Ten days before therge auction, the flow of people in Huanglong Immortal City increased sharply.


    At Water Moon Residence, a distant visitor arrived.


    "Is this Lan Chang''an''s residence?"


    An old, deep voice came from the courtyard entrance.


    "Senior, who might you be?"


    Guan Qiaozhi looked at the elderly man in front of her, wearing a bamboo hat.


    At the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, his demeanor was calm, with the aura of an old Confucian schr.


    Despite the years and wrinkles on his face, they could not hide his once-handsome appearance.


    "I am Mu Maode, here to visit Talisman Master Lan." The elderly man cupped his hands, smiling kindly.


    "Qiaozhi, quickly invite Senior Mu in."


    Lan Chang''an, ying by the pond with the Profound Water Turtle, hurried to greet him.


    "Lan Chang''an, you haven''t changed at all over the years."


    The elderly man, with aplex expression, stepped into the courtyard.


    In Lan Chang¡¯an¡¯s eyes, the middle-aged man in the green robe who had stood at Jin Yun Valley¡¯s main gate forty or fifty years ago slowly merged with the old man standing in front of him now.


    Lan Chang''an was now sixty-five years old.


    By this calction, Mu Maode was at least in his eighties or nies, nearing a hundred years old.


    Cultivators could mostly dy aging but once they approached the end of their lifespan, their appearance would age rapidly, reverting to their true form.


    "It''s just a minor Life-Nurturing Technique of the wood system. Senior Mu, pleasee in and have a seat."


    Lan Chang''an raised his hand to invite him in.

 Chapter 72: Reunion with Qingxuan

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    The two of them sat down in the room, and Guan Qiaozhi eloquently served tea and water.


    "Talisman Master Lan is a great recluse, raising turtles and nting grass. Your life seems quite leisurely." Mu Maode said, taking off his bamboo hat and ncing at the clear and delicate Guan Qiaozhi, feeling an inexplicable sense of mncholy.


    "Senior Mu, you overpraise me. I am just a loose cultivator with some modest skills, unworthy of the title of a recluse." Lan Chang''an said modestly.


    They drank spiritual tea and chatted for a while.


    Many years ago, Mu Maode had retired from his family, giving the position of head of the family to a vigorous and powerful ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator.


    "Senior Mu, if you have any instructions, you can send someone to inform me. There''s no need toe personally." Lan Chang''an guessed that Mu Maode''s visit must have a purpose.


    "Talisman Master Lan, my family has a request for you." Mu Maode said solemnly, his posture humble.


    "A request from me?" Lan Chang''an asked, puzzled. What could he, a seemingly weak ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator, do to help the Mu Family?"Our family needs a favor from someone you know." Mu Maode exined.


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an guessed Mu Maode''s intention.


    In recent years, the Maple Leaf Huang Family has been shing with the Mu Family, causing casualties among the younger generation.


    Openly and covertly, the Huang Family had been suppressing the Mu Family''s industries, framing them, and escting conflicts.


    The Mu Family had been enduring as much as possible.


    However, the Huang Family''s goal was to annex the Mu Family, and there was no avoiding it. Sooner orter, a war between the two families would erupt.


    In the surrounding area, the only powerful force that had ever looked out for the Mu Family was the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    The Zhou Family''s genius beast tamer, Zhou Qingxuan, owed Lan Chang''an a favor.


    Over the years, Zhou Qingxuan had be a Foundation Establishment cultivator, holding a significant position in the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    "Senior Mu, Zhou Qingxuan indeed owes me a favor from her youth. But after so many years, she has be a Foundation Establishment senior and may not acknowledge her childish promise from back then."


    "If you want me to form an alliance and persuade Zhou Qingxuan, that is unrealistic." Lan Chang''an said calmly.


    Using a favor to help the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake was one thing.


    But he was unwilling to directly intervene in the conflict between the two families and get involved in the vortex.


    Mu Maode smiled bitterly, "I understand that a small favor from her youth cannot influence the decisions of the Zhou Family''s top management. Moreover, the Zhou Family is currently in conflict with the Ten Thousand Swords Zhuo Family and has no spare capacity to care for us."


    "This time, contacting you is not to persuade the Zhou Family to protect us," he said, his tone softening as he exined the reason.


    "We want to privately buy a second-rank spirit beast from the Zhou Family. We don''t expect a second-rank spirit beast in its prime. Even an old and weak second-rank spirit beast with little lifespan left would be eptable."


    After listening, Lan Chang''an pondered, "If it''s just to privately arrange the connection, I can try. But I can''t guarantee sess, and I won''t participate in the specific transaction."


    "Talisman Master Lan, you just need to privately contact Zhou Qingxuan and facilitate this transaction. Whether it seeds or not, this is a token of our gratitude from the Mu Family," Mu Maode said, squeezing a smile on his elderly face and handing over a bag of spirit stones.


    Looking at the elderly man nearing a hundred years old, Lan Chang''an, who came from a family in his previous life, understood the hardship and difficulty involved.


    A cultivating family is bound by bloodline kinship.


    When you are born in the family, you receive cultivation and education, marry and have children, and your descendants spread their branches and leaves on thisnd, with all your life''s effort poured into them.


    This is what it means to be a family cultivator!


    Bound tightly to the family, with ties thatst a lifetime.


    "I was once a member of the Mu Family. Helping to say a word is no big deal. This bag of spirit stones is unnecessary," Lan Chang''an declined the spirit stones repeatedly.


    Mu Maode felt greatlyforted. Although Lan Chang''an had left the Mu Family, he had not misjudged him back then.


    At least he was not a heartless person.


    "There will be arge auction in Huanglong Immortal City soon. Zhou Qingxuan will represent the Beast Taming Zhou Family to sell a batch of spirit beasts and cubs." Mu Maode exined the situation.


    "She is currently at the Zhou Family residence in the inner city. You can contact her privately. If I go, it might alert the Huang Family." he added.


    Mu Maode had been retired from the Mu Family for many years. Nearing the end of his lifespan, his body was failing, and the Huang Family did not pay much attention to him.


    But if he showed up at the Zhou Family residence, it would be different.


    "Senior Mu, please be careful." Lan Chang''an said.


    After discussing some details, Mu Maode put on his bamboo hat and left Water Moon Residence.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an did not act immediately.


    He took a bath and burned incense in the room, using a potion to remove the scent of spirit pets from his body.


    Zhou Qingxuan had exceptional talent in beast taming. Even when she was a young girl, Lan Chang''an had experienced her skills.


    Normally speaking, it would be impossible for her to determine the cultivation base of the Profound Water Turtle based on its scent alone. But one must always be cautious.


    Secrets and risks in the cultivation world are rtive.


    If Lan Chang''an were a Foundation Establishment cultivator, the growth of the Profound Water turtle might seem abnormal but not a major issue.


    The Beast Taming Zhou Family possessed many secrets in raising spirit beasts, so they were never afraid of others coveting them.


    If he were a Nascent Soul True Monarch, the secret of the Evergreen Technique would not be a concern either.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    Lan Chang''an left the Profound Water turtle in the courtyard, with Guan Qiaozhi taking care of it.


    He entered the bustling area of the inner city alone.


    Using his spiritual sense to check the surroundings and ensure no one was following, Lan Chang''an disguised himself in an inn. Through the body refinement manual, he adjusted his muscles and bones, transforming into a young man in fine clothes.


    He also adjusted his aura with the Evergreen Technique.


    Experienced people might see through the disguise but would not see his true appearance.


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an arrived at the Zhou Family residence.


    A ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator could not be ignored by the guards of the Zhou Family residence.


    "I am Lan, an old acquaintance of Elder Zhou Qingxuan. Please inform her of my visit, here is the token." Lan Chang''an said, handing a letter along with five spirit stones to the guarding cultivator.


    The letter contained a top superior-grade Frost Descent talisman.


    After waiting for a while.


    "Are you Mr. Lan? My master invites you in." a maid from the Zhou Family came out and led Lan Chang''an into the residence.


    The Zhou Family residence was argepound that could house over a hundred people.


    Before long, they arrived at a quiet courtyard.


    The maid invited Lan Chang''an into the house.


    It was a quiet room with sandalwood incense and the faint fragrance of a woman as fresh as a lotus.


    A young girl in a yellow dress, her face as beautiful as jade, sat cross-legged on a cushion.


    Twenty years had passed, but Zhou Qingxuan remained youthful. Her beauty and temperament had improved, losing some of her yful mischief and gaining more elegance and grace.


    "Junior Lan Chang''an greets Senior Zhou." Lan Chang''an said, bowing after entering the room, removing his disguise beforehand to show respect.


    "Lan Chang''an? I remember you, the turtle talisman master." Zhou Qingxuan said with a yful smile, breaking her dignified demeanor.


    Lan Chang''an felt strange: This woman''s temperament hadn''t changed much. He was probably going to have to rely on the Turtle Talisman Master title to jog her memory.


    "Senior Zhou still remembers me. It''s an honor!" Lan Chang''an said.


    "Tell me, what brings you here?" Zhou Qingxuan asked indifferently, ignoring Lan Chang''an''spliments without any intention of reminiscing.


    Lan Chang''an was not surprised.


    If he were a Foundation Establishment elder, he wouldn''t be interested in chatting with a Qi-Refining junior either.


    "Senior Zhou, the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake wants to privately purchase a second-rank spirit beast from your family. They can ept an old and weak second-rank spirit beast with little lifespan left." Lan Chang''an said straightforwardly, addressing the high-ranking cultivator directly and concisely.


    "A second-rank spirit beast?" Zhou Qingxuan sneered, "Every second-rank spirit beast is a treasure of the Zhou Family. Besides, we are currently facing off against the Ten Thousand Swords Zhuo Family and need all thebat power we can get."


    "Lan Chang''an, how dare you make such a request?"

 Chapter 73: Problematic Pill

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, how dare you make such a request?¡±


    The young girl in the yellow dress looked at him with cold, bright eyes, exuding an invisible pressure as a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    ¡°You are right, senior.¡±


    Lan Chang''an took a deep breath, not arguing or refuting.


    In truth, an elderly second-rank spirit beast with a limited lifespan didn''t hold much value for the Zhou Family. If enough benefits were exchanged, they could cultivate more spirit beasts or use resources to develop new second-rank spirit beasts, or even Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Moreover, the annexation of the Mu Family by the Huang Family of Maple Leaf didn''t align with the Zhou Family''s interests.


    Lan Chang''an''s non-argumentative stance made it seem like he didn''t care about sess or failure.


    Zhou Qingxuan was surprised and inexplicably annoyed:¡°Lan Chang''an, you overestimate your importance! That small favor from the past isn''t enough.¡±


    Her previous posture was actually meant to control Lan Chang''an and force the Mu Family to pay a higher price.


    ¡°Senior Zhou, will this talisman be sufficient?¡±


    Lan Chang''an took out a talisman with ice patterns engraved on it.


    ¡°A low-grade second-rank talisman, Frost Howl.¡±


    Zhou Qingxuan took the talisman, giving Lan Chang''an a deep look before finally nodding:


    ¡°It¡¯s enough.¡±


    A low-grade second-rank talisman might not be highly valuable to a Foundation Establishment cultivator, but the Frost Howl talisman was an upgraded version of the Frost Descent talisman that Zhou Qingxuan had asked Lan Chang¡¯an to create.


    By showing this talisman, Lan Chang''an demonstrated his skills, indicating that his status wasn''t as low as it seemed, surpassing the usual ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator. He also reminded Zhou Qingxuan that the favor owed from the past didn''t depreciate with her change in status.


    ¡°Take this token. After the auction, let someone from the Mu Familye to see me.¡± Zhou Qingxuan flicked her jade finger, causing a green beam of light to shoot out.


    A green jade pendant fell into Lan Chang''an¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Thank you, senior Zhou.¡± Lan Chang''an bowed gratefully.


    ¡°If there''s nothing else, you may leave.¡± Zhou Qingxuan lost interest.


    Lan Chang''an was about to take his leave when a sh of inspiration hit him.


    Zhou Qingxuan owed him a favor; this rare opportunity for a conversation shouldn''t be wasted!


    In the Beast Taming Zhou Family, Zhou Qingxuan was not an ordinary Foundation Establishment elder.


    ¡°Senior Zhou, my Earth Burrowing Rat has been stuck at the peak of the first rank for many years. Could you sell me a second-rank Earth Spirit Pill?¡± Lan Chang''an asked, bracing himself for the possibility of being kicked out.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, your face is quite thick.¡±


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s expression turned slightly cold, her eyes incredulous as she looked at him.


    After just settling a favor, Lan Chang''an dared to ask for more?


    ¡°Please forgive me, senior. I¡ª¡± Lan Chang''an began apologetically, ready to leave.


    Zhou Qingxuan interrupted him:


    ¡°A low-grade second-rank Earth Spirit Pill can promote the growth of second-rank earth-type spirit beasts. It aids peak first-rank earth-type spirit beasts in advancing to the second rank, increasing the sess rate by five percent for low-grade bloodlines, ten percent for medium-grade bloodlines, and fifteen percent for superior-grade bloodlines.¡±


    ¡°It once sold for two thousand spirit stones at an auction. I¡¯ll give it to you at a discount price of one thousand six hundred spirit stones.¡± She straightforwardly took out a tael-colored pill bottle.


    ¡°Thank you, senior, for amodating me.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was overjoyed. No wonder there''s a saying: thick-skinned people get to eat; thin-skinned people go hungry.


    He took out a bag of spirit stones and bought the Earth Spirit Pill from Zhou Qingxuan.


    Afterpleting the transaction, Zhou Qingxuan, looking impatient, waved her hand and said, ¡°I don¡¯t want to see you again.¡±


    ...


    Leaving Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s secluded courtyard, Lan Chang''an was in a good mood as he had gotten what he wanted.


    This trip not only sessfully established a connection for the Mu Family but also secured an opportunity for his Earth Burrowing Rat to advance to the second rank.


    In fact, he had never nned to push for his Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s advancement before, taking aissez-faire attitude.


    With a medium-grade bloodline, it was neither high nor low. If it advanced, great; if not, it would be left to fend for itself.


    His sh of inspiration earlier aimed to squeeze every bit of favor owed by Zhou Qingxuan to the maximum. Brazenly attempting it, he hadn''t expected Zhou Qingxuan to agree to sell such a rare resource.


    The low-grade second-rank Earth Spirit Pill was akin to a weaker version of the Foundation Establishment Pill for spirit beasts. While its effects were inferior to the Foundation Establishment Pill, the Earth Spirit Pill only benefited earth-type spirit beasts, making it somewhat limited.


    Hence, its price was much lower than that of the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    ...


    Walking out of the Zhou Family¡¯srge mansion, Lan Chang''an felt someone¡¯s gaze on him as he passed through the outer courtyard.


    Turning to look, he saw a middle-aged woman in her forties or fifties, cleaning the courtyard and avoiding his gaze.


    The woman, a fifthyer Qi-Refining cultivator, was sweeping with a broom instead of using spells to clean.


    This wasn''t unusual.


    Many deep-rooted cultivation forces had various customs, such as prohibiting the use of spells to sweep the floor so as to avoid fluctuations in mana, which would interfere with the meditation of the seniors.


    Since the woman turned her head away, he only caught a glimpse of her aging yet somewhat familiar face, still showing traces of her youthful beauty, with an oval face, willow-leaf eyebrows, and almond eyes.


    Eh?


    Lan Chang''an felt she looked familiar but couldn''t immediately recall where he had seen her before.


    This was the Zhou Family¡¯s territory, so he didn¡¯t delve deeply, quickly adjusting his appearance and leaving the mansion.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an¡­¡±


    The sweeping woman stared nkly at his departing back, tightly gripping her broom.


    Decades had passed, yet he remained unchanged, serene, and calm.


    Her memory drifted back to decades ago at the Feiyue Manor, where Young Miss Mu had arranged for her to meet that foreign youth at the Willow Pavilion.


    In her vision, Lan Chang''an¡¯s figurepletely disappeared.


    The woman suddenly broke down, crying bitterly and choking up.


    Back then, she had seemed morous, marrying into a branch of the Zhou Family as the main wife, feeling it was her greatest pride.


    However, after marriage, she discovered that she hadn''t married the second son she had thought of but another son with hysteria!


    Entering the bridal chamber, she had no choice but to ept reality.


    The first few years after marriage were bearable as the Zhou Family¡¯s Foundation Establishment cultivator cast spells to stabilize her husband¡¯s condition.


    However, as time passed, her husband became increasingly insane and violently abusive at times.


    She gave birth to children in the Zhou Family, bound by duty and unable to face her own family, so she endured the hardships.


    Avoiding her husband as much as possible became her greatest happiness.


    Even when she came to work as a servant in the Huanglong Immortal City, she never onceined.


    Her sorrowful crying wasn''t out of hatred for Lan Chang''an but because of the mistake she made years ago, a step that led to irreversible consequences.


    ...


    ¡°So it was her.¡±


    Leaving the Zhou Family¡¯s residence, Lan Chang''an suddenly recalled who the woman was.


    He remembered: When Mu Yinn visited her family, she had circled around his courtyard, showing the demeanor of a prominent family¡¯s noblewoman.


    Why had she fallen from a noblewoman to a sweeping maid? What life changes had she undergone?


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t interested in finding out.


    This was Mu Yinn''s own life choice, and they were merely acquaintances.


    She had deliberately avoided him, clearly not wanting to face him today.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    Lan Chang''an, having reverted back to his original appearance, returned to Water Moon Residence.


    In his room, he took out the teal-colored porcin bottle containing the second-rank Earth Spirit Pill.


    The dark yellow, round pill felt heavy like lead and mercury, with four stripes on the surface, indicating its low-grade second-rank status.


    ¡°Something''s wrong!¡±


    Examining it closely, Lan Chang''an¡¯s smile froze.


    After a thorough inspection, he discovered that this Earth Spirit Pill contained unusual medicinal properties, a form of pill poison.


    During the transaction, the Foundation Establishment Zhou Qingxuan had seemed impatient.


    He hadn¡¯t closely examined it, nor dared to casually use his spiritual sense in front of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    At the time, Lan Chang''an confirmed it was a low-grade second-rank pill with four stripes, not an inferior product.


    Its appearance matched the characteristics of an Earth Spirit Pill.


    ¡°That little girl! To think a dignified Foundation Establishment expert would scam a Qi-Refining cultivator?¡± Lan Chang''an was speechless.


    No wonder Zhou Qingxuan had offered such a "favorable" price. It turned out this Earth Spirit Pill had problematic medicinal properties, making it impossible to sell at the normal price.


    ...


    Fellow Daoists, some people have unfairly bombed this novel with 1star votes._. Help me tilt the scales by leaving a positive review or a higher rating on NovelUpdates. Thank you! 50 votes before Eid and I''ll post an extra chapter /series/i-shall-be-evesting-in-the-world-of-immortals/

 Chapter 74: Second-Rank Demonic Beast

    "Squeak squeak!"


    The Earth Burrowing Rat sniffed the air and darted over. Its eyes rolled around, staring eagerly at the Earth Spirit Pill in Lan Chang''an''s hand, with a look of desire and ttery.


    "Idiot! You dare to eat a problematic pill? Aren''t you afraid of dying from poison?" Lan Chang''an knocked on its head.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat squealed in pain, looking aggrieved.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment and had an idea.


    This was indeed a problematic pill.


    However, it had four dao patterns, clearly indicating a low-grade second-rank pill, just with skewed medicinal properties.


    After consumption, unknown changes might ur.


    It could bring certain hidden dangers, like poisoning, adverse side effects, or qi deviation.Of course, there was also a small probability of a positive mutation.


    "Anyway, it''s a middle-grade bloodline, let''s take a gamble. Even if something goes wrong, it''s eptable."


    Lan Chang''an had the Evergreen Technique to fall back on, which was excellent for detoxifying poisons and healing. If the Earth Burrowing Rat failed the breakthrough, it would still survive.


    "Squeak squeak!"


    The Earth Burrowing Rat rubbed against Lan Chang''an''s leg, looking at him with expectant eyes.


    "Alright, alright! After the big auction, I''ll let you be a guinea pig!"


    Lan Chang''an put away the Earth Spirit Pill.


    ...


    During the auction, the flow of people in Huanglong Immortal City surged.


    All major shops increased their stock, with higher-grade materials, pills, and magical weapons being more plentiful than usual.


    Lan Chang''an sold off the spoils from killing the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle, some middle and low-grade magical items, and other cultivation resources in batches.


    Therge crowd, with its mix of people, made it easier to cover up shady dealings.


    With plenty of spirit stones in hand, he took the opportunity to purchase materials for second-rank talismans.


    One day, in a beast material shop, he bought a second-rank middle-grade beast hide.


    Lan Chang''an was delighted: with second-rank middle-grade beast hide as the main material, the quality of the second-rank talisman paper would be higher.


    This would increase the sess rate of making second-rank middle-grade talismans significantly.


    With good performance, he might even produce premium-quality ones!


    ...


    A few dayster.


    In Water Moon Residence, Lan Chang''an met Mu Maode again.


    Mu Maode, wearing a bamboo hat, entered the courtyard and removed his disguise.


    Inside the house, Guan Qiaozhi poured tea and then left, closing the door behind her.


    "Talisman Master Lan, how did it go?" Mu Maode¡¯s voice was low and hoarse, betraying his anxious state of mind.


    "I didn''t fail you."


    Lan Chang''an handed Zhou Qingxuan''s token to Mu Maode and briefly exined the situation.


    "Good, good!" Mu Maode was excited, increasingly recognizing Lan Chang''an''s ability and character.


    "Talisman Master Lan, time is of the essence, I must take immediate action." Mu Maode left without finishing a cup of tea.


    "Uncle Mu, I can''t help the Mu family personally, but these three low-grade second-rank talismans are a token of my goodwill."


    "And this jade slip, please give it to Xiuyun."


    Before parting, Lan Chang''an took out a jade slip and three talismans, handing them to Mu Maode.


    Hearing Lan Chang''an call him "Uncle Mu," Mu Maode''s expression becameplex. He solemnly epted the gifts and left with a bow.


    Lan Chang''an had a hunch.


    This farewell might be thest time he saw Mu Maode, this former Mu family head didn''t have much time left.


    The jade slip Lan Chang''an gifted contained some insights into the art of talisman, mainly for first-rank talismans, along with some second-rank knowledge.


    Given that he was familiar with Mu Xiuyun''s talisman skills; this targeted guidance would benefit her greatly.


    Even if she couldn''t establish her foundation and be a true second-rank talisman master, she would still be revered.


    "Senior Brother Lan, there''s a bag of spirit stones at the entrance." Guan Qiaozhi eximed, bringing in a bag of spirit stones.


    Lan Chang''an took the bag, which contained eight hundred spirit stones, and he fell silent for a moment.


    The Mu family was in crisis.


    For someone as stingy as Mu Maode to produce such a sum indicated he didn''t want to owe Lan Chang''an anything.


    It was a father''s final act of defiance.


    ...


    Huanglong Immortal City, after therge auction, saw cultivators leaving one after another.


    Half a monthter.


    At the foot of Huanglong Mountain, Lan Chang''an rented a cave-dwelling, enjoying the low second-grade spiritual vein environment.


    This type of cave-dwelling wasn''t considered high-end in Huanglong Mountain, costing only thirty spirit stones per month.


    He set up the second-rank array Four Illusory Sky Curtain Formation in the cave dwelling. Combined with the cave''s original second-rank protective array, it created a doubleyered array.


    "Squeak squeak!"


    The sturdy, yellowish-brown Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from the spirit beast pouch, its eyes shining, eager to try.


    Lan Chang''an nodded approvingly; the rat was in good condition.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat half-sat on the stone bed, with several auxiliary spiritual materials and pills in front of it.


    Among them was the teal-colored porcin bottle containing the Earth Spirit Pill.


    Everything was ready.


    Lan Chang''an stepped back and took up a position to observe and protect.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat consumed several spiritual materials, its demon power rising and absorbing the world''s spiritual energy.


    Most of a demonic beast¡¯s power came from its physical body and bloodline. As such, it didn¡¯t need as much spiritual energy as a human cultivator when attempting to reach the second-rank. It also didn¡¯t require as much effort.


    At some point, the Earth Burrowing Rat swallowed the porcin bottle containing the second-rank Earth Spirit Pill in one gulp.


    Boom!


    The demon power of the Earth Burrowing Rat surged, stepping into the threshold of a second-rank beast.


    In less than a quarter of an hour.


    Poof!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat suddenly spat blood, and blue-ck blood oozed from its skin, corroding the ground into pits.


    "Not good!"


    Lan Chang''an''s expression changed. He sensed the demonic power in the Earth Burrowing Rat bing violent, its bloodline chaotic, almost copsing!


    It was clearly suffering from internal poisoning. The medicinal pill had reacted violently with its body, and it was on the verge of exploding!


    ...


    A few dayster, at the foot of Huanglong Mountain.


    The spiritual energy above the cave-dwelling rented by Lan Chang''an was abnormally agitated.


    Such urrences weren''t unusual in the cave-dwelling area of Huanglong Mountain.


    Many visiting cultivators rented caves here for cultivation breakthroughs, causing various spiritual energy fluctuations.


    Only a human cultivator building their foundation, absorbing massive amounts of spiritual energy, would attract widespread attention.


    Inside the cave dwelling.


    Under the cover of two second-rank arrays, a powerful demonic power erupted, with fierce winds roaring and stone walls trembling.


    The fierce aura was enough to make an early Foundation Establishment cultivator pale.


    "Squeak squeak!"


    The Earth Burrowing Rat''s body expanded, its face and limbs covered in dried blood, with a faint purple glow on its fur.


    Its reddish-brown eyes looked at Lan Chang''an with gratitude.


    If not for Lan Chang''an consuming two months of his lifespan to perform the healing secret spell at a critical moment, the rat would have exploded long ago, let alone advanced to the second rank.


    The Earth Spirit Pill sold by Zhou Qingxuan had abnormal and violent medicinal power.


    While the pill''s effect was fine, normal beasts attempting to break through with it would likely not survive.


    Bam!


    ¡°Get off me!¡± Lan Chang¡¯an kicked the Earth Burrowing Rat clinging to his leg. ¡°Clean yourself up!¡±


    The rat, covered in blood and dirt, Lan Chang''an found it a little disgusting.


    "Squeak squeak squeak!"


    The Earth Burrowing Rat bared its teeth in protest, using its demonic power to shake off the dirt.


    "Your bloodline has slightly mutated?"


    Lan Chang''an examined the refreshed Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Its more streamlined, robust body resembled a cheetah, with its originally brownish-yellow fur now tending towards orange-yellow, interspersed with some light purple.


    Judging by his experience, the Earth Burrowing Rat''s bloodline had evolved from the original upper middle-grade to superior-grade.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had just advanced and needed to stabilize its realm, so Lan Chang''an refrained from testing it.


    ...


    A monthter, the Earth Burrowing Rat''s realm stabilized.


    Now, it was a genuine early second-rank demonic beast,parable to a human Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Inside the cave-dwelling, Lan Chang''an tested the Earth Burrowing Rat''s abilities.


    The original Earth Burrowing Rat was tough and skilled at digging, with some earth-based spells.


    The slightly mutated Earth Burrowing Rat was sharper and faster.


    Its offensive capabilities were more formidable!


    Lan Chang''an simted that without using his trump cards, he wouldn''t be able to deal with this rat.


    After advancing to the second rank, the Earth Burrowing Rat had stronger defenses and natural earth escape abilities.


    Moreover, the rat was now mentally sharp and swift.


    With Lan Chang''an''s strong spiritual sense and bodyparable to that of a second-rank demonic beast, along with the spirit pet contract, he wasn''t afraid of the rat turning on him.

 Chapter 75: Bad News

    Two monthster.


    Lan Chang''an left the cave dwelling at the foot of Huanglong Mountain.


    No one knew that there was now a fierce second-rank spirit pet in his spirit pet pouch.


    Returning to Water Moon Residence, everything returned to normal.


    For secrecy, Lan Chang''an didn''t let the Earth Burrowing Rat appear in front of outsiders, including Guan Qiaozhi.


    He bought arger spirit pet pouch for the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    The rat would either stay in the spirit pet pouch or move underground, not leaving the confines of the courtyard.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had a second-rank formation to conceal its aura, preventing passing Foundation Establishment cultivators from sensing it.


    ...Time flew by.


    Two years after therge auction ended.


    Because Lan Chang''an bought second-rank middle-grade beast skins during the auction, he now had better materials for drawing talismans.


    In these two years, he produced five second-rank middle-grade talismans. Combined with the three he made in previous years, the number reached eight.


    Among them were two second-rank middle-grade top-quality talismans, with power equivalent to a full strike from a mid-Foundation Establishment stage, which could be very lethal to early Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    As for second-rank low-grade talismans, he had even more, totaling dozens.


    This was the foundation he umted over his years in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Because it bordered the ck Fog Mountain Range, Lan Chang''an was asionally able to obtain second-rank beast skins, including second-rank talisman paper and spirit ink.


    If he were in the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake or the market in Bamboo Mountain, it would be hard to get so many second-rank raw materials.


    "Could my Foundation Establishment opportunity also lie in the ck Fog Mountain Range?" One day, at sixty-seven years old, Lan Chang''an opened his eyes from meditation.


    Now, his cultivation was approaching the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    The conditions for attempting the Foundation Establishment Realm wereplete, onlycking a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill.


    These years, in the circles of Alchemist Hua and his apprentice, no one provided the Xuanling Fruit.


    Even if there was, if the alchemy performance was poor, there was no guarantee of getting a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill.


    In short, it was not under his control.


    Lan Chang''an considered a backup n: going to the ck Fog Mountain Range to obtain a special demon core to rece the three-hundred-year Xuanling Fruit.


    Although hunting demonic beasts had its risks, many factors could be controlled, it wasn''t asplicated and dangerous as the human world.


    Lan Chang''an was only long-lived, not immortal.


    Expecting to take no risks at all was unrealistic.


    With two hundred years of lifespan, if he dragged it past a hundred, his physical condition would also decline.


    Besides this backup n.


    He could wait for some middle-sized market to auction a Foundation Establishment Pill. If note Foundation Establishment cultivator was present, he could go and bid for one in a high-profile manner.


    Considering the risks as seen in the Bamboo Leaf Mountain market years ago, the risks were hard to control.


    This kind of opportunity can be encountered but not sought.


    Those middle-sized markets with stable security rarely auction Foundation Establishment Pills to avoid causing trouble.


    ...


    Until two monthster.


    Lan Chang''an received a letter from Jin Yun Valley and finally made a decision.


    Zhao Siyao was going to the ck Fog Mountain Range again for training.


    After twenty years in the Foundation Establishment Realm, Zhao Siyao hit a bottleneck, her cultivation stagnating at the third level of Foundation Establishment, unable to advance to mid-Foundation Establishment.


    When she was at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, she had some gains in the ck Fog Mountain Range, pushing her progress in Foundation Establishment.


    She wanted to rekindle the spirit of those days.


    Going a bit deeper into the ck Fog Mountain Range to hunt second-rank demonic beasts and obtain precious resources.


    Zhao Siyao''s destination matched Lan Chang''an''s goals.


    "With a trusted Foundation Establishment cultivator as the main force, a second-rank spirit pet clearing the way, and me providing some support and talismans, targeting early second-rank demonic beasts should be rtively safe."


    Lan Chang''an thought.


    Considering his true strength, it was equivalent to three Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an''s body wasparable to a second-rank demonic beast, possessing many second-rank talismans, including second-rank escape talismans, his survival ability far surpassed ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    This did not even include the Nine Seal Stele and the trump cards from his past and present lives.


    As long as he did not enter the core area of the ck Fog Mountain Range, he would mostly encounter only second-rank demonic beasts.


    Higher-level third-rank great demons had a mutual understanding with human Core Formation cultivators, sensing each other from afar. They generally wouldn''t approach Huanglong Immortal City, otherwise, it would be considered a provocation.


    Once they appeared, it meant a beast tide wasing, often showing signs in advance.


    ...


    Before Zhao Siyao arrived, Lan Chang''an organized his magical weapons.


    With his current cultivation and spiritual sense, superior magical weapons became his main force, with top middle-grade magical weapons as support.


    Top superior-grade offensive magical weapon, White Bone Bow and Arrow. A trophy from the Evil-faced Flying Eagle, with enough power stored up, its power could beparable to the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    With the Evil-faced Flying Eagle being killed, this item was no longer considered stolen goods.


    Currently, Lan Chang''an didn''t n to use it in the human world. At most, he would use it in secret, not openly.


    Top superior-grade defensive magical weapon, White Scale Shield. Made from second-rank beast scales and second-rank ores, purchased from a regr store in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Exotic White Pearl, when infused with mana, activates a protective glow, blocking poison gas, with a defenseparable to a top superior-grade magical weapon.


    However, this pearl''s protective glow is less effective against heavy and sharp magical weapons. Its defense best works against spells. In terms of spell defense, it even exceeds the scope of superior-grade magical weapons.


    For middle-grade magical weapons, Lan Chang''an always kept three on hand: ck Net Magical Weapon, Purple Soft Sword, and Frost Iron Thorns.


    All are middle-grade top-quality magical weapons.


    The ck Net Artifact can attack and defend, also trapping enemies.


    The Purple Soft Sword was good at concealed surprise attacks, transforming between sword and whip forms.


    Frost Iron Thorns, a set of six, purchased by Lan Chang''an, thicker and longer than the Seven Ingenious Needles, with strong pration power.


    This set of magical weapons demands a spiritual sense akin to superior-grade magical weapons.


    If one had the spiritual sense of the Foundation Establishment Realm to harness it, the Frost Iron Thorns could be utilized to its limit, and its power would not be inferior to that of a top superior-grade magic weapon.


    This was because each Frost Iron Thorn was a top middle-grade item.


    To enhance the Frost Iron Thorns'' lethality, Lan Chang''an used his experience from his previous life to purchase materials in the Huanglong Immortal City and concocted several second-rank poisons.


    As for even higher-rank magical weapons, Lan Chang''an never considered them; his mana level wasn''t enough to drive them.


    Even if his spiritual sense was enough to forcefully harness it, it would probably drain most of his mana in a single strike, simply not worth it.


    Rather than that, it would be better to fling a few second-rank talismans, without having to consume mana.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an was fully prepared, waiting for Zhao Siyao''s arrival.


    "Huh! Li Erqing hasn''t replied in two years?"


    One day, while organizing letters from over the years, he noticed something unusual.


    In the past, Li Erqing wrote every year, even if there was no major event, he''d chat about family matters. But in the past two years, not a single reply came from him.


    Lan Chang''an had a hunch, that something had happened to Li Erqing!


    Or rather, something happened to the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake, and the letters might have been intercepted midway.


    Lan Chang''an disguised himself to inquire about news in Huanglong Immortal City.


    In the inner city, there were organizations specializing in selling intelligence.


    However, Feiyue Lake was far from Huanglong, and the Mu Family wasn''t a major force in the Liang Kingdom, so there wasn''t much information.


    "Conflict between the Maple Leaf Huang Family and the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake escted, with over a dozen casualties among Qi-Refining cultivators."


    "The Maple Leaf Huang Family drove the Mu Family cultivators off of Bamboo Leaf Mountain, with all their shops sold off cheaply..."


    "The Maple Leaf Huang Family listed ten charges against the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake and dered war."


    The Lan Chang''an bought an intelligence report for dozens of spirit stones, but thetest piece of news was from three months ago.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    A leaf-shaped sect flying boatnded in front of Water Moon Residence.


    The flying boat was swiftly put away.


    A cold and fairy-like female cultivator in a white dress came to the courtyard gate.


    "This fairy, senior, you are..."


    Seeing the extraordinary demeanor and the fluttering dress of the female cultivator, Guan Qiaozhi''s eyes widened, her tone slightly flustered.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, you''re finally here!" Lan Chang''an came out to greet her.


    "She is Zhao Siyao?"


    Guan Qiaozhi stood aside, watching the two dressed in white, like a celestial couple, entering the house.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, do you know about the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake?" Just seated, Lan Chang''an skipped the pleasantries and went straight to the point.


    "I deliberately passed by there, and the result..." Zhao Siyao sighed lightly.


    "Feiyue Lake was besieged by the Maple Leaf Huang Family, the battle was fierce. The Mu Family''s old ancestor Mu Renlong was seriously injured, and the former family head Mu Maode was killed..."


    "Fellow Daoist Li Erqing...also suffered some injuries."

 Chapter 76: Negotiations

    Even though Lan Chang''an had anticipated it, he couldn''t calm his heart upon hearing the unfavorable news about the Mu Family.


    Humans are not made of grass and wood, how can they be absolutely emotionless?


    In this life, he started his cultivation in the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake, living there for two or three decades.


    In a certain sense, he could be considered half a cultivator of the Mu Family.


    Two years ago, Lan Chang''an had seen the elderly Mu Maode. Unfortunately, he perished in this battle and couldn''t die a natural death.


    The only good news:


    The two people Lan Chang''an was closest to in the Mu Family, Li Erqing and Mu Xiuyun, survived the battle.


    Then, Zhao Siyao detailed the battle situation between the two big families.


    The Maple Leaf Huang Family now had four Foundation Establishment cultivators. In the battle a few months ago, they deployed three Foundation Establishment cultivators, leading the elite of their family, tounch a night attack on Feiyue Lake.Among them was Huang Tankong, a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    They had thought they could easily crush the Mu Family, but unexpectedly, the Mu Family had hidden their strength.


    Firstly, the Mu Family had secretly purchased a second-rank spirit beast, which, although physically aging, was rich inbat experience.


    Secondly, a newly promoted Foundation Establishment cultivator emerged in the Mu Family, which was Li Erqing.


    Thirdly, the Mu Family had greatly strengthened the formation defense of their family''snd over the years, constructing two medium-sized second-rank protection arrays.


    With the help of these formations, the Mu Family barely withstood the Huang Family''s attack.


    Additionally, Mu Xiuyun demonstrated her skills as a second-rank talisman master in this battle on her home turf, ying a significant role.


    In this battle, the Mu Family suffered heavy losses, with the family elder Mu Renlong severely injured, and dozens of mid-tote-stage Qi-Refining cultivators dead or injured.


    The second-rank spirit beast was also seriously injured and wouldn''t live for many more years.


    The Huang Family also suffered significant losses, but considering their size and heritage, they would recover in a few years.


    "Li Erqing, when did he obtain the Foundation Establishment Pill?" In truth, Lan Chang''an had a vague answer in his heart; it couldn''t be achieved by his own ability.


    "Regarding this matter, Fellow Daoist Li told me privately." Zhao Siyao''s voice was clear and pleasant, with a hint of peculiarity in her expression.


    "Li''s son, Mu Jiuan, identally triggered a rare treasure while collecting herbs outside nine years ago. The treasure''s light reached the sky and was noticed by a nearby cultivator."


    "Mu Jiuan was very smart and took the initiative to offer the treasure to the cultivator who arrivedter."


    "That cultivator epted the treasure and decided to take Mu Jiuan as a disciple. However, that cultivator was not from the Liang country and wanted to take Mu Jiuan away..." Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an already knew the answer.


    A treasure that could move a Core Formation cultivator was likely a third-rank treasure.


    Compared to that, what was a Foundation Establishment Pill worth?


    If it were Lan Chang''an in his previous life, he would have been thrilled to gain a third-rank treasure and a promising disciple. Giving a Foundation Establishment Pill and some resources aspensation was a fair trade, it is considered to be the end of the karmic consequences.


    That Foundation Establishment Pill was requested by Mu Jiuan for his father.


    "No wonder, years ago, when Li Erqing had his son send me the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill, he was so generous."


    "It turns out, he had already obtained the Foundation Establishment Pill by then, and kept it hidden from me." Lan Chang''an unraveled the mystery from years ago.


    Li Erqing had kept the Foundation Establishment Pill a secret not only from him but also from the Mu Family, even going out to secretly establish his foundation.


    Li Erqing''s advancement to the Foundation Establishment Realm was beyond Lan Chang''an''s expectations.


    Unexpectedly, this guy, relying on having children, made steady progress, breaking through his original fate and advancing to the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Li Erqing''s only period of misfortune was when he changed his name to Li Changqing and stayed at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining for over a decade.


    Before leaving the Mu Family, Lan Chang''an helped Li Erqing change his name and unwind at the Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion, relieving his mental burden.


    After returning, Li Erqing advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining without using a breakthrough pill, leaving some potential for his future Foundation Establishment.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, thank you for stepping in this time; otherwise, the Maple Leaf Huang Family might not have retreated." Lan Chang''an expressed his gratitude.


    When Zhao Siyao went to the Mu Family, the Maple Leaf Huang Family was stationed near Feiyue Lake, having suffered significant casualties without achieving their goal, they were unwilling to back down.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator of the sect, Zhao Siyao mediated, and the Maple Leaf Huang Family finally chose to withdraw.


    "If they had fought to the end, even if the Maple Leaf Huang Family had taken down the Mu Family, they would have paid a heavy price. My presence merely gave them an excuse to retreat." Zhao Siyao smiled lightly, not taking credit.


    "This repulsion of the Huang Family ensures peace for Feiyue Lake for at least a few years." This family conflict made Lan Chang''an worry greatly for the Mu Family.


    ...


    After discussing the Mu Family, Zhao Siyao brought up the matter of training in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    In recent years, her cultivation had stagnated, and she was facing a bottleneck, feeling mentally exhausted and doubtful of her path.


    The confidence and ambition she had when advancing to the Foundation Establishment stage had beenrgely worn away.


    If she continued to stay in the sect and cultivate infort, her hopes of reaching the Core Formation Realm in this lifetime would be slim.


    Zhao Siyao''s current state was something Lan Chang''an, with his insight from his past life as a Core Formation cultivator, could see through at a nce.


    The fundamental reason was that Zhao Siyao''s spiritual root qualifications had no advantage after entering the Foundation Establishment stage.


    In the sect, nearly half of the Foundation Establishment cultivators had high-grade spiritual roots, or, like Zhao Siyao, roots close to high grade.


    If Li Erqing''s original limit was the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, then Zhao Siyao''s limit would be roughly the mid tote Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Without a fortuitous encounter, the hope of her bing a Core Formation cultivator in the future was very small.


    In Lan Chang''an''s view, Zhang Tieshan had a higher chance of reaching the Core Formation Realm than Zhao Siyao.


    Zhang Tieshan was blessed with good luck, firm will, and great ambition, even if his aptitude was slightly worse than Zhao Siyao.


    Zhao Siyao clearly realized her situation and knew she had to go out and train, seeking fortuitous encounters, just as she did when stuck at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you want my help to kill second-rank demonic beasts and obtain special demon cores to rece the main ingredient Xuanling Fruit?" Zhao Siyao hesitated upon hearing Lan Chang''an''s idea.


    Such special demon cores typically came from second-rank demonic beasts with superior bloodlines or higher.


    If Zhao Siyao encountered them alone, she might not be able to defeat them.


    In the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, many Foundation Establishment cultivators had lost their lives hunting such second-rank demonic beasts for their children.


    Although Zhao Siyao had a good rtionship with Lan Chang''an, it was far from that of blood rtives. She had repaid some of the favors she owed him in recent years.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, take a look at these two trump cards of mine before you decide." Lan Chang''an smiled slightly and took out a talisman disc from his storage pouch.


    Infusing it with mana, the disc glowed and released sixteen superior-grade talismans.


    These talismans simultaneously emitted electric arcs, forming a miniature lightning formation in the room.


    The formation''s power made Zhao Siyao, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, feel a hint of threat.


    This talisman formation was something Lan Chang''an had prepared during his mid-Qi-Refining stage in Bamboo Leaf Mountain and could resist an early Foundation Establishment cultivator for a short time.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan possesses such skill in talismans?" Zhao Siyao couldn''t help but be amazed.


    Just this alone made her feel that with Lan Chang''an''s assistance, she could kill second-rank demonic beasts that she previously couldn''t defeat, obtaining more resources.


    She guessed that Lan Chang''an might already be a second-rank talisman master, or at least close, and probably had second-rank talismans.


    Little did Zhao Siyao know, this was merely one of Lan Chang''an''s cards from his mid-Qi-Refining stage.


    By now, it was long outdated.


    The second-rank talisman formation Lan Chang''an had recently prepared could potentially kill a middle Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "What is Fellow Daoist Lan''s second trump card?" Zhao Siyao was quite expectant. Lan Chang''an''s first demonstration had already won her over.


    Lan Chang''an put away the talisman disc and patted the spirit pet pouch at his waist, from which emanated a strong and fierce demonic aura.


    "A second-rank demonic beast!" Zhao Siyao''s delicate face showed surprise; the beast in the bag gave her a strong sense of pressure.


    Lan Chang''an''s two trump cards, if used properly, had the chance to kill Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    No wonder, with Lan Chang''an''s cautious nature, he would consider the special demon core method.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯ve had quite a bit of good fortune sinceing to the Huanglong Immortal City. You even managed to get your hands on a second-rank demonic beast.¡± Zhao Siyao couldn¡¯t help but sound a bit envious.


    ¡°It was all luck. I owe this luck to Zhou Qingxuan from the Beast Taming Zhou Family...¡± Lan Chang¡¯an exined the situation.


    The breakthrough of the Earth Burrowing Rat into the second-rank had left a trail of clues behind.


    Zhou Qingxuan couldn¡¯t be sure what would happen when she sold the Earth Spirit Pill. It would be interesting to see how she reacted when she learned what had happened.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, to possess such strength, this journey to the ck Fog Mountain Range will surely be fruitful with our sincere cooperation." Zhao Siyao smiled faintly, beautiful like a fairy in a painting. At this moment, shepletely treated Lan Chang''an as a peer in the Foundation Establishment stage.


    If Lan Chang''an were to advance to the Foundation Establishment stage, as a second-rank talisman master with a second-rank spirit beast, his status among Foundation Establishment cultivators would be quite high.


    The two quickly reached an agreement to go to the ck Fog Mountain Range half a monthter.


    During this period, Zhao Siyao needed to purchase some supplies in the city.


    "If Fellow Daoist Zhao doesn''t mind, there are vacant guest rooms at the Water Moon Residence that can provide temporary amodation." Lan Chang''an suggested.


    "No need, I can stay at the Jin Yun Valley station." Zhao Siyao''s clear and charming eyes nced at Lan Chang''an, smiling as she declined.


    Lan Chang''an''s suggestion was merely a courtesy.


    He didn''t insist and watched as Zhao Siyao, in her fairy-like dress, rode away on the wind.


    <em>Author Notes;</em>


    <em>It''s understandable if there''s controversy over this chapter. This shopkeeper will nowy out the timeline for you. In the book, Zhao Siyao had the best aptitude, cultivating to Foundation Establishment twenty-something years ago. Mu Xiuyun failed to cultivate to the Foundation Establishment one or two decades ago; the book has detailed the process, mentioning that she advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining using a breakthrough pill and didn''t use a Foundation Establishment Pill. Li Erqing cultivated Foundation Establishment ten or twenty yearster; his progress once outpaced the protagonist by quite a bit (Lan''s limited by time, and a low-grade wood spirit root), and he was ahead at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining but got stuck there for quite some time. Before Lan Chang''an left the Mu Family, he helped Li Erqing change his name and rx at the Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion, resolving his mental barriers. After returning, Li Erqing advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining without using a breakthrough pill, leaving some potential for future Foundation Establishment.</em>


    <em>If the chance of reaching Foundation Establishment is one in a thousand, then that''s absurd. A standard Foundation Establishment Pilles with a twenty percent sess rate, not counting personal factors. With a bit of good fortune, there''s a chance for anyone to achieve it.</em>

 Chapter 77: First Battle Victory

    There was still half a month left.


    Lan Chang''an checked for any overlooked areas and ensured that all sorts of materials and life-saving measures were prepared adequately.


    A few dayster.


    The puppet master neighbor from across the street came back carrying a bamboo basket, looking travel-worn.


    "Puppet Master Sang has also reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining."


    "His spiritual sense is much stronger than that of an ordinaryte-stage Qi-Refining cultivator. Could he have encountered some opportunity?" Lan Chang''an squinted his eyes, watching the muscr middle-aged man enter his courtyard.


    Puppet Master Sang was usually reticent and rarely interacted with people. However, after being neighbors for twenty years, some interactions were inevitable.


    A few years ago, Puppet Master Sang bought top superior-grade talismans from Lan Chang''an, and was received by Guan Qiaozhi at that time.


    The puppet master''s strength mainly relied on his puppets. In some emergencies, talismans were more convenient and practical.The next day, Lan Chang''an brought some small gifts and went to the opposite courtyard.


    He knew that Puppet Master Sang had a reclusive personality and got straight to the point.


    "Talisman Master Lan, what grade of puppet do you want to buy?" Puppet Master Sang''s expression was somewhat wooden.


    The two of them stood in the courtyard talking; he didn''t even invite Lan Chang''an in for a cup of tea.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t mind and said:


    "Do you have any second-rank puppets for sale?"


    Puppet Master Sang''s eyelids twitched as he looked at Lan Chang''an in astonishment, shaking his head:


    "The best I can make arete first-rank puppets."


    Lan Chang''an had his doubts about this.


    Judging by the craftsmanship of Guan Qiaozhi''s puppet dog and Puppet Master Sang''s spiritual sense, it shouldn''t be limited to just this.


    "Puppet Master Sang, don''t be modest. I''ve heard about your true skills from someone."


    "Who said that?"


    Puppet Master Sang''s expression changed slightly, asking instinctively.


    "It doesn''t matter who said it. If second-rank puppets are too much, how about selling me two top first-rank bird puppets?" Lan Chang''an proposed.


    Evergreen mana wasn''t suitable for offense, so top superior-grade first-rank puppets could serve as supplementarybat power. At the very least, they could act as cannon fodder, it would increase their error tolerance.


    With the Earth Burrowing Rat advancing to the second rank, it was no longer suitable for such dirty work.


    Puppets had the advantage of not fearing death and being immune to most poisons.


    Puppet Master Sang hesitated for a moment, reluctantly saying, "I only have one top superior-grade first-rank bird puppet. You''ll need to exchange second-rank talismans for it."


    "Second-rank talismans are incredibly precious, far exceeding first-rank talismans by several times..."


    The two haggled for a while and reached a deal. Puppet Master Sang sold two top superior-grade first-rank puppets to Lan Chang''an.


    One was a bird puppet, and the other was a heavy-armored humanoid puppet.


    Lan Chang''an paid with a few low second-rank talismans.


    These low-grade second-rank talismans were made when Lan Chang''an first came to Huanglong Immortal City and was limited by materials, so he simply discarded them to Puppet Master Sang.


    This also matched his current talisman crafting level.


    The cost of making a puppet was often twice that of a simr-grade magical weapon and couldst for many years if not severely damaged.


    Talismans, on the other hand, were consumables, with their value skyrocketing starting from the second rank.


    "Talisman Master Lan, be aware that these two top superior-grade puppets can only exert the power of an ordinaryte-stage Qi-Refining cultivator in most hands." Besides the two puppets, Puppet Master Sang gave Lan Chang''an a jade slip containing a puppet control technique.


    "To exert peak first-rank strength, the controller needs a high level of spiritual sense and proficiency in the control technique."


    "Thank you for the reminder, Puppet Master Sang." Lan Chang''an understood this well.


    In this life, his spiritual sense was strong, and he had plenty of free time, making it suitable for delving into the art of puppets.


    Controlling puppets could also unleash considerable power.


    In his previous life, he had dabbled or taken an interest in more mainstream immortal arts like alchemy, formations, spiritual nting, and beast taming. Among them, he had some achievements in formations. But niche skills like puppetry were not among them.


    Every cultivator''s lifetime energy was limited. In his previous life, he managed to cultivate to the Core Formation Realm, elevate his talisman art to the third rank, care for arge family, and vie for Nascent Soul opportunities, leaving him utterly exhausted.


    In this life, limited by the passing of ages, he had a lot of free time every day.


    In the second life, he couldn''t confirm if he could reincarnate again, so cultivation was his top priority.


    In this life, he still didn''t dare to ensure that there would be another reincarnation.


    Only by advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm, with a qualitative change in his soul, could he explore the true secrets of the Nine Seal Stele.


    ...


    Ten dayster.


    A flying boat carrying a man and a woman flew out of the northern gate of Huanglong Immortal City, heading towards the vast and endless gray mountains.


    Zhao Siyao, in a white dress, elegant and serene, was steering the flying boat in front.


    The cool breeze blew her three thousand strands of hair, making her fairy-like dress flutter backward, outlining her graceful figure.


    Lan Chang''an, in a white robe, calm and peaceful, seemed like an ancient tree rooted in the flying boat.


    He gazed at the faint mist over the distant mountains.


    Information about the ck Fog Mountain Range surfaced in Lan Chang''an''s mind:


    "The ck Fog Mountain Range stretches across almost half of the Great Qing Realm, with numerous demon beast tribes, it is a formidable force that cannot be ignored in this Cultivation Realm."


    "A significant branch of it runs through the northern region of the Liang Kingdom, also referred to as the ck Fog Mountain Range by cultivators in Huanglong Immortal City."


    "Most of this mountainous region is shrouded in mist all year round, which istes the spiritual sense of cultivators. The deeper you go, the denser the mist, and the more dangerous it bes."


    Half an hourter.


    The flying boat entered the outskirts of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense was restricted by at least half.


    The spiritual energy and mist here contained a quality more suitable for demonic beasts'' cultivation.


    Here, human cultivators felt a sense of difficulty whether cultivating or recovering their mana.


    "We''ll continue on foot."


    Zhao Siyao put away the flying boat, and theynded on the ground.


    "Flying in the sky in the ck Fog Mountain Range makes the magic fluctuations of human cultivators like a beacon in the night, easily attracting a wide range of demonic beasts'' attention, especially flocks of birds!"


    Lan Chang''an had read the records: some flocks of birds numbered in the hundreds or thousands. Even if most were first-rank demon birds, a Foundation Establishment stage cultivator would have to shed his skin even if he didn''t die after getting caught up in it.


    The two entered the outer area of the mountains for dozens of li.


    They asionally saw early and mid first-rank demon beasts.


    Human cultivators'' traces asionally appeared, mostly wandering cultivators.


    Some were in groups of three or five as hunting teams.


    With Zhao Siyao being a Foundation Establishment cultivator, nearby cultivators would immediately avoid them with respect as they approached.


    ...


    After going two hundred li into the mountain range, Zhao Siyao slowed down.


    At this point, the mist in the sky was light gray, and the demon beasts they encountered had significantly improved strength and intelligence, mostly mid tote first-rank.


    Some high-intelligence demon beasts not only didn''t attack but also avoided them from afar.


    Hunting demon beasts in the cultivation world wasn''t as simple as pulling mobs in an online game.


    A few or a dozen demon beasts posed no threat to the two of them.


    But they had to be wary of demon beast hordes; numbers over a hundred could threaten even Foundation Establishment stage cultivators.


    They just needed to avoid being surrounded by demon beast hordes in time.


    At this point, they hadn''t reached the territory of second-rank demon beasts.


    The reason for slowing down was twofold.


    First, to identify the direction and avoid any unnecessary dangers. Second, to search for precious herbs and spirit ores.


    The auxiliary herb Illusory Heart Grass that Lan Chang''an obtained was picked by Zhang Tieshan from the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    If they were incredibly lucky, finding the Xuanling Fruit deep in the ck Fog Mountain Range wasn''t impossible.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Whoosh!


    The leopard-like Earth Burrowing Rat darted over from a nearby mountain ditch.


    In its mouth was a branch of blood-colored ink-like flower.


    "A second-rank spirit flower, Blood Ink Flower."


    Lan Chang''an took the flower branch, feeling pleasantly surprised.


    The Blood Ink Flower was a primary ingredient for several second-rank pills and was quite beneficial for blood-path techniques.


    It could also be mixed into talisman ink to enhance the quality of second-rank talisman ink!


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, this Blood Ink Flower is at least four hundred years old. Your spirit rat has an incredibly keen sense of smell." Zhao Siyao marveled, praising.


    Over the past few days, since Lan Chang''an let the Earth Burrowing Rat out to scout, they had found something every once in a while.


    Mostly high-grade first-rank spiritual items.


    This was the first time such a precious four-hundred-year-old second-rank Blood Ink Flower appeared.


    "It''s mostly luck! Also, because we''ve entered the second-rank demon beast area, the resources are richer." Lan Chang''an appeared humble on the surface but had already made a judgment in his heart.


    Ordinary rat-type demon beasts had inherently keen senses.


    After the Earth Burrowing Rat''s bloodline mutation and enhancement, its senses became even sharper.


    In the ck Fog Mountain Range, where human cultivators'' spiritual senses were limited, the Earth Burrowing Rat thrived.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    A soul-stirring beast roar echoed through the mountains.


    A three-zhang-tall second-rank bear demon, covered in scars, was being attacked by a male and a female cultivator.


    The main attacker was the female cultivator in a white dress, wielding an iron umbre magical tool.


    The iron umbre asionally transformed into a spear, sometimes into a shield, and sometimes shot out a few steel needles.


    The ground around the second-rank bear demon was sunken, with some ground spikes and walls scattered around.


    There were also many deep holes.


    It was unpredictable which hole might suddenly spring out a ferocious rat.


    The bear demon roared continuously, leaving over ten bloody w marks on its back.


    In the distance, a man in white held a white bone bow, his magic power fully charged, and every now and then, he released a cold arrow.


    To be precise.


    The man in white used a tall heavy-armored puppet as a shield to guard against the bear demon''s ranged stone throws.


    In the sky behind him, a bird puppet hovered, responsible for covering.


    With a thud, the enormous second-rank bear monster fell to the ground, pierced by two bone arrows that emitted ck smoke from its ribs and hips.


    "Luckily, I have Fellow Daoist Lan to help me. If I¡¯d been alone, my magical power reserves would have been exhausted before I could kill this bear monster." Zhao Siyao''s eyes gleamed with joy as she spoke.


    "I was just providing support; it was mainly Fellow Daoist Zhao who suppressed it head-on."


    Lan Chang''an looked at the huge bear demon''s corpse, estimating the area of its beast hide. If used as the main material, it would be enough to make many second-rank talisman papers.


    ....

 Chapter 78: Discovering the Target

    Under normal circumstances, Zhao Siyao would be unable to take down this bear demon by herself.


    If it wasn''t subjected to multiple constraints, this bear, with its thick skin and immense strength, could throw stones capable of piercing the protective shield of a Foundation Establishment Realm cultivator.


    It could also fly rtively swiftly and emit sonic roars.


    With the assistance of Lan Chang''an and the Earth Burrowing Rat, the kill was rtively easy.


    The loot was quite plentiful: bear skin, bear bones, bear galldder, demon core, and beast blood¡ªall decent second-rank materials.


    "This bear demon has an upper middle-grade bloodline, but its demon core is impure and excessively murderous."


    Unfortunately, the bear demon did not meet the requirements for a special demon core.


    The special demon core needed to substitute for the Xuanling Fruit must at least start with a superior-grade bloodline, and the demon core''s attributes must be pure and bnced.


    Lan Chang''an did not expect the first second-rank demon beast he beheaded to meet the requirements."Fellow Daoist Zhao, I only want the bear skin and the bear demon''s blood. You can take the rest." Lan Chang''an took the initiative to give up therger share.


    "Okay." Zhao Siyao didn''t refuse.


    It wasn''t that Lan Chang''an hadn''t pulled his weight in this fight; rather, he wasying the groundwork for the future.


    The second-rank demonic beasts that met the requirements were much stronger, and Zhao Siyao would need to shoulder the brunt of the confrontation when fighting against it.


    At that time, the highly valuable special demon core would go to Lan Chang''an. This point wasn''t discussed in detail beforehand, but there was an unspoken tacit understanding between them.


    ...


    Swish! Swish!


    While the two were dividing the spoils, the magical auras of two Foundation Establishment cultivators approached at a low altitude.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao were on guard, standing up and preparing for a confrontation.


    In the ck Fog Mountain Range, the danger from demon beasts was only part of the danger. Each year, countless cultivators died not at the hands of demon beasts but by their own kind.


    Lan Chang''an had the Earth Burrowing Rat hide underground to prepare for potentialbat.


    Within a few breaths.


    Through the light gray mist appeared a man and a woman, both Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    One was a portly middle-aged man in a cloak, with a shiny forehead and mid-Foundation Establishment cultivation.


    The other was a woman in a gauze dress, elegant and serene, exuding charm, with early Foundation Establishment cultivation.


    "Fellow Daoists, are you cultivators from the Qingzhu Sect?"


    Zhao Siyao''s beautiful eyes turned, noticing the decorative leaf beneath the woman''s foot, a telltale sign of Qingzhu Sect. She then revealed a pale golden token.


    "So Fellow Daoist is a Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Jin Yun Valley."


    The portly middle-aged man nced at the bear demon''s corpse on the ground, showing a warm smile, his gaze falling on Zhao Siyao.


    "Qingzhu Sect Deacon, Chen Fuhai."


    "Qingzhu Sect, Xiao Yingxue."


    The gauze-dressed woman''s voice was soft, also looking at the beautiful and ethereal Zhao Siyao.


    The two Foundation Establishment cultivators ignored Lan Chang''an, a mere Qi-Refining cultivator, taking him to be Zhao Siyao''s junior or attendant.


    "Jin Yun Valley, Zhao Siyao. This is my good friend, Lan Chang''an."


    After introductions, the atmosphere rxed considerably.


    In the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, the major cultivation sects were considered to be in the same circle, standing above the many cultivation families.


    ording to Lan Chang''an''s understanding, the cultivation sects in the Liang Kingdom were generally considered neutral and orderly, at least on the surface, they followed the rules.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, could you sell the galldder of this second-rank bear demon to Chen? And also that bear''s... Little brother Lan, you understand." Chen Fuhai smiled amiably, shooting a suggestive nce at Lan Chang''an.


    "If Fellow Daoist Chen needs it, we can sell it at the Huanglong Immortal City''s market price." Zhao Siyao nodded, her face slightly blushing.


    "Deal."


    Chen Fuhai took out a pouch of spirit stones and tossed it to Zhao Siyao.


    He had initially hinted for Lan Chang''an to cut off the bear''s pizzle, but thetter, having slight mysophobia, pretended to not hear him.


    He couldn''t possibly let Fairy Zhao do such dirty work, so Chen Fuhai could only take matters into his own hands and seal the two precious items within a jade box.


    Afterpleting the transaction, the Foundation Establishment cultivators from the two sects conversed amicably.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, please take care: five hundred li to the north, there''s a territory upied by ate second-rank Scorpion Armor Beast. Its bloodline is close to earth grade, and its strength is truly terrifying." Before parting, Chen Fuhai offered a piece of information.


    "Thank you, Fellow Daoist Chen, for the reminder." Zhao Siyao''s heart tightened, expressing her gratitude.


    Ate second-rank demon beast was beyond the range of ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    In the ck Fog Mountain Range, the territories of demon beasts were not static. Information on the locations of dangerous demon beasts was very important for human cultivators.


    The information Chen Fuhai provided was a favor owed to him.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Since the incident of killing the second-rank bear demon, Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao, with the help of the Earth Burrowing Rat, had taken down two more early second-rank demon beasts.


    The parts and materials from these second-rank demon beasts could be exchanged for a substantial amount of spirit stones.


    Such battle performance was very encouraging.


    However, half a monthter, they encountered some setbacks.


    In the ck Fog Mountain Range, on arge exposed rock.


    Zhao Siyao, dressed in a white dress, sat meditating, her pale face gradually regaining a rosy hue.


    Her cloud-like hair was slightly disheveled, with a few scorched strands.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, are you alright?"


    Lan Chang''an stood guard nearby, with two puppets patrolling the vicinity.


    "No worries, It''s just that the mana consumption was high." Zhao Siyao opened her clear, bright eyes.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, your decision was correct; we didn''t need to fight that fire lizard head-on."


    Not long ago, the two encountered a mid second-rank fire lizard.


    The fire lizard''s attacks were fierce, and its fire spells were powerful.


    Zhao Siyao and the Earth Burrowing Rat had a fifty to sixty percent chance of winning, and with Lan Chang''an''s help, they might have been able to secure the win.


    Lan Chang''an, however, was unwilling to fight head-on, so they retreated while fighting, throwing two water-type second-rank talismans, causing the fire lizard to give up the chase.


    In that battle, the Earth Burrowing Rat''s fur was also slightly burned.


    "Although we could defeat the fire lizard together, Fellow Daoist Zhao and the Earth Burrowing Rat might get injured. That''s something I don''t want to see." Lan Chang''an analyzed rationally.


    The ck Fog Mountain Range was home to countless varieties of demonic beasts with bizarre abilities, as well as cultivators withplex motivations¡ªboth factors meant that maintaining peak conditions at all times was essential for dealing with the unexpected.


    Most importantly, the demon core of a fire-type beast was too violent to substitute for the Xuanling Fruit.


    ...


    In the third month aftering to the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Lan Chang''an finally found a clue to the special demon core.


    In a lush canyon.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat brought a piece of white scale skin to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an took the white scale skin, its surface texture like jade, feeling cool and smooth to the touch.


    Zhao Siyao nced at it and smiled:


    "Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Lan! This should be the shed skin of a White Jade Python."


    White Jade Python, a superior-grade bloodline demon beast, its demon core is pure and bnced, without dominating elemental attributes.


    As long as it reaches the second rank, its demon core is suitable to substitute for the Xuanling Fruit.


    "It should be nearby." Lan Chang''an, skilled in tracking, began searching the canyon with the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat first discovered a hidden cave entrance in the vine-covered mountainside.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat showed fear, pacing at the entrance, not daring to approach.


    Snakes and pythons had a natural restraint against rats.


    Lan Chang''an was instead pleased; if it could scare the Earth Burrowing Rat, it was at least a second-rank White Jade Python.


    "Let''s hope it''s an early second-rank White Jade Python." Lan Chang''an thought optimistically.


    If it was a mid-second-rank White Jade Python, simr in strength to the previous fire lizard, he could ept that, barely. But if the White Jade Python was at thete stage, Lan Chang''an would have to turn tail and run.


    Judging by the shed skin, the White Jade Python was either early or mid-second rank.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, prepare yourself." Lan Chang''an retreated a distance, positioning the heavy-armored puppet in front of him.


    His left hand secretly held a second-rank escape talisman.


    His right hand formed a seal, sending a fire snake about ten feet long into the hidden cave.


    A few momentster.


    The mountainside trembled lightly, demonic power surged, and an enraged hissing sounded from within.


    Amidst the raging wind and sand, a massive six to seven-zhang-long crystal-white python burst out of the cave.


    Lan Chang''an was reassured and retracted the second-rank escape talisman in his hand.


    Luck was on his side!


    This White Jade Python was at the peak of the early second rank, equivalent to the third level of Foundation Establishment.


    It was in a breakthrough stage, hence shedding its skin.


    Interrupted during its cultivation, the White Jade Python was extremely furious, its dark green eyes shing coldly.


    Boom!


    The White Jade Python had only half emerged from the cave when the surrounding rocks copsed, dust flying.


    Lan Chang''an cast an approving nce at the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Bang! Crack!


    The White Jade Python rolled over like a ground dragon, opening its bloody mouth.


    Lan Chang''an activated a second-rank talisman.


    Instantly, the temperature in the area plummeted.


    A vortex of icy air, nearly ten zhang in diameter, apanied by a blizzard of hail, struck the White Jade Python.


    Second-rank low-grade talisman, Frost Howl!


    The White Jade Python''s body was covered with ayer of white frost, its movements stiff, and its belly scales showedrge areas of decay.


    Frost Howl had considerable lethality and its controlled damage was even stronger.


    The White Jade Python burst with demonic power, white crystal patterns shing on its body as it struggled with all its might. The frost encasing its body shattered inch by inch.


    "Go!"


    Zhao Siyao''s Iron Trellis Umbre transformed into a sword, and swept past with a sharp sword light, leaving a foot-long gash on the python''s body.


    Boom! ng!


    The White Jade Python exploded with power, its tail smashing into the Iron Trellis Umbre with such force that the umbre was sent flying, its spiritual light dimming as it descended.


    Simultaneously, it spat out a dazzling white beam, zeroing in on Zhao Siyao, who posed the greatest threat.


    Having lost control of her magical weapon, Zhao Siyao let out a muffled groan as she hastily erected a transparent shield around herself.


    Puff!


    The dazzling white beam was terrifyingly powerful, effortlessly melting a hole in her protective shield.


    Zhao Siyao shouted, summoning a copper mirror that emitted a deep green light, which sessfully swallowed the white beam.


    As Zhao Siyao engaged the White Jade Python in a fierce battle, Lan Chang''an took out a talisman disk and infused it with mana.


    Crackling!


    Sixteen talismans flew out, sparking with electric currents as they weaved into a lightning formation that enveloped the White Jade Python.

 Chapter 79: Obtaining the Demon Core

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Within the thunder formation.


    The White Jade Python''s body spasmed and hissed in pain,rge scorch marks appearing on its freshly frostbitten body.


    Chain after chain of crackling lightning wrapped around the enormous python.


    Zhao Siyao took the opportunity to counterattack, transforming her Iron Trellis Umbre into a spear and stabbing a bloody hole in the python''s head.


    Thud! Thud!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat unleashed its innate spell, the summoned earthspikes pierced its abdomen, one after another, each two zhang high.


    The White Jade Python struggled for a long time encaged inside the thunder formation, its body turning ck and charred, covered in numerous wounds, and its breath growing shallower and shallower.


    Lan Chang''an stood behind the heavy-armored puppet.Aiming the White Bone Bow at the White Jade Python, he was concerned that the bone arrows'' poison might affect the quality of the demon core, so he settled for a few first-rank premium talismans instead.


    After a brief battle, the power of the talisman formation was exhausted. Atst, the White Jade Python ceased to move, its burnt carcass shrinking into itself.


    "Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Lan, for ying this python and achieving your goal," Zhao Siyao smiled sweetly as she looked towards the charred corpse of the White Jade Python, ready to put away her Iron Trellis Umbre.


    Lan Chang''an raised his hand, signaling her to hold her ground.


    The moment he struck down the White Jade Python, his heart had pounded wildly, and a chill ran down his spine¡ªas if something was watching him.


    The feelingsted only an instant, it seemed like an illusion born of excessive caution and suspicion.


    Fortunately, neither Lan Chang''an nor Zhao Siyao, nor even the Earth Burrowing Rat, sustained any injuries in the battle against the White Jade Python, all were in good condition.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an looked at the python''s corpse and cast a few wind des and fireballs, whichnded right on the wounds of the python''s corpse.


    Hiss! Roar!


    The python''s corpse suddenly straightened, towering three stories high, whipping up a tempest of sand and wind.


    Its icy eyes fixed on Lan Chang''an, the python opened its bloody maw and spat out a twisted blood arrow.


    "Watch out!" Zhao Siyao shouted, but it was toote to intervene.


    The speed of the blood arrow was such that even ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators would find it hard to dodge, with a lethality nearing the mid-Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Thud! Boom!


    The twisted blood arrow pierced through the heavy-armored puppet in front of Lan Chang''an.


    The tall and sturdy puppet''s exterior rapidly dposed, rotting away in an instant. It was hard to imagine what would happen if it hit flesh and blood.


    After passing through the heavy armor puppet, the blood arrow''s force diminished, scattering remnants of its power in all directions


    Lan Chang''an quickly retreated, holding a white pearl that emitted ayer of protective light around his body.


    A few remnants of the blood arrow hit the protective light, producing a sizzling sound and emitting thick smoke.


    Lan Chang''an also held a few second-rank defensive talismans.


    Hmm?


    The protective shield from the Exotic White Pearl was more effective than Lan Chang''an had expected, blocking all the remnants of the blood arrow.


    It''s worth noting that the remnants still had the lethality at the threshold of Foundation Establishment.


    The Exotic White Pearl was not particrly effective against heavy and sharp weapons, nor physical attacks.


    But it had strong resistance against spells, poisons, and simr forms of attacks.


    After spewing out the blood arrow, the White Jade Python closed its cold eyes in resignation, and its massive body fell to the ground with a thud, creating a shallow pit.


    ...


    This time, Lan Chang''an confirmed that the White Jade Python was truly dead.


    He had the Earth Burrowing Rat scout and break open the python''s corpse to retrieve the demon core inside.


    "Wait!" There were sounds of the air being torn apart from outside the canyon as a pair of man and woman hurriedly arrived.


    It was the Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Qingzhu Sect they had met two months ago, Chen Fuhai and Xiao Yingxue.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, we have been searching for this White Jade Python''s hiding ce for months. Can you sell its corpse to us?" Chen Fuhai asked urgently.


    Before Chen Fuhai and Xiao Yingxue could draw near, Lan Chang''an swiftly scooped up the translucent white core, just in case.


    *To hell with it, let''s bag the prize first.*


    Chen Fuhai and Xiao Yingxue''s faces darkened, their eyes fixed on Lan Chang''an.


    "The corpse of the White Jade Python belongs to Fellow Daoist Lan. You two are a step toote." Zhao Siyao said coldly, shielding Lan Chang''an behind her with her Iron Trellis Umbre held up high, her white dress fluttering in the wind.


    Lan Chang''an''s line of sight was blocked by Zhao''s graceful figure and the Iron Trellis Umbre. At such close proximity, a faint, elegant fragrance wafted over with the wind.


    Seeing the tense atmosphere, Lan Chang''an patted Zhao''s fragrant shoulder and stepped forward.


    The two stood side by side, facing the two Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Qingzhu Sect.


    Squeak! Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, upon receiving its master''s signal, bristled, its eyes glowing red, emanating a powerful demonic aura.


    Chen Fuhai and Xiao Yingxue looked at each other with grave expressions.


    Judging by the demonic aura, the Earth Burrowing Rat seemed slightly stronger than an ordinary second-rank early demonic beast.


    In that case, it was two against two.


    However, this "two" did not include Lan Chang''an.


    "If you want to buy the White Jade Python''s corpse, you may take it at the market price." Lan Chang''an said generously.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, we won''t speak in riddles, we wish to buy the White Jade Python''s demon core from you." Xiao Yingxue said with a gentle smile, her voice soft and delicate, her demeanor demure.


    "My son needs a Foundation Establishment Pill urgently, so I hope you will be a man of honor. We are willing to pay fifty percent above market price."


    "May I ask how old your son is?" Lan Chang''an asked calmly, looking at the elegant female cultivator.


    "Forty-eight," Xiao Yingxue replied. "He cannot wait any longer.".


    Lan Chang''an responded, "I am sixty-seven. Can I dy a few more years?"


    Hearing this, Xiao Yingxue was shocked, and she turned to Chen Fuhai, both of them looking at each other in dismay.


    Generally speaking, the younger one was when attempting to reach Foundation Establishment, the better.


    ording to ancient records, the oldest cultivator who had ever reached Foundation Establishment was eighty-two years old.


    But in the cultivation world of Liang, there hasn''t been a single case of someone over seventy sessfully ascending to Foundation Establishment in thousands of years.


    Once above fifty, one missed their peak and the sess rate would gradually decline with each passing year.


    Looking at the young-faced elderly man, Xiao Yingxue hesitated to speak.


    "If you are just seeking a Foundation Establishment Pill, we might be able to coborate." Lan Chang''an suggested.


    "You mean cooperate to refine the pill?" Chen Fuhai''s eyes lit up.


    Lan Chang''an nodded. "We could jointly gather the raw materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill, and with a reliable second-rank alchemist we can get two or three finished pills. However, since I have the key main ingredient, I will have priority in choosing a Foundation Establishment Pill."


    Lan Chang''an had gathered all the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill. But as a loose cultivator it would be too conspicuous if he pulled out all the materials by himself.


    Even without Chen Fuhai and Xiao Yingxue, Lan Chang''an nned to find someone to coborate with in refining the pills.


    Having the key main ingredient, like the Young Master Zhou back then, ensured he could secure a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan is truly righteous!" Chen Fuhai and Xiao Yingxue exchanged a brief conversation and smiled amicably.


    "If this works out, my wife and I will owe you a debt of gratitude." Chen Fuhai said with hands cupped in respect, Xiao Yingxue also gracefully bowed.


    The tense atmosphere eased immediately.


    Zhao Siyao and Lan Chang''an exchanged smiles.


    A life-and-death duel nearly broke out.


    Through negotiation, the imminent conflict between the two parties was resolved, turning hostility into amity.


    In the cultivation world, settling disputes and maintaining social graces could prevent many conflicts.


    There were no eternal positions in the cultivation world; even enemies could be allies.


    If one were to cling to the idea that all gods blocking their path would be killed, or that they would defy the heavens regardless of consequences, they would soon find themselves with enemies all around, making it impossible to pursue the path of longevity.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an read in ancient texts about a mythical battle where a "True Immortal" descended, proiming invincibility, wantonly ughtering beings of all races and plundering the resources of a realm.


    The result? The True Immortal had attracted the ire of top-level Mahayana cultivators, Earth Immortals, and ancient True Spirits, who banded together to besiege and ultimately defeat them, leaving the True Immortal toment their hubris as they perished.


    ...


    Of course, Lan Chang''an''s ability to turn enemies into friends and have the two Foundation Establishment cultivators owe him a favor also required both skill and cunning.


    The disy of the Earth Burrowing Rat''s power was one factor.


    But that alone wasn''t enough!


    A mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator is much stronger than an early Foundation Establishment one.


    Theoretically, Chen Fuhai could fight two early Foundation Establishment cultivators and still have a chance of winning.


    Chen Fuhai and his wife didn''t know that Lan Chang''an himself had Foundation Establishment level of strength and even had means to threaten a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an revealing his age of sixty-seven was another factor.


    Such an advanced age for an ordinary Qi-Refining cultivator indicated a final desperate effort. It implied he would fight to the death if necessary.


    Though confident of their chances, Chen Fuhai and Xiao Yingxue had no desire to take risks in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, might I ask who your alchemist is?" Chen Fuhai asked amicably, "I happen to have a close friend who is a top superior-grade second-rank alchemist in the Qingzhu Sect, and he often produces three standard Foundation Establishment Pills per batch."


    "Lan will seek out Alchemist Hua of Huanglong Immortal City. His attainments have touched the tip of second-rank." Lan Chang''an replied.


    Lan Chang''an declined the offer to go to the Qingzhu Sect for pill-refining.


    He had been keeping an eye on the alchemist of the Huanglong Immortal City, Alchemist Hua, for many years; the man''s skill and character were satisfactory, so there was no need to look elsewhere, even if the alchemist of the Qingzhu Sect was more skilled.


    "Alchemist Hua isn''t bad," Xue Yingxue said with a smile. "I wonder what other ingredients Fellow Daoist Lan has collected."


    The two began discussing the matter, and the atmosphere grew quite amiable.


    Lan Chang''an only listed some of the abundant ingredients, especially those he had in excess. As it turned out, Chen Fuhai and his wife possessed all the ingredients he intentionally withheld.


    Lan Chang''an surmised that these two Foundation Establishment cultivators had gathered all the remaining materials save for the Xuanling Fruit or a special demon core.


    After they reached an agreement, the two parties happily set off on their return journey to Huanglong Immortal City.


    In this part of the ck Fog Mountain Range, deep within the fog, they dared not fly too conspicuously and thus could only restrain their mana fluctuations as they glided along slowly at low altitude.

 Chapter 80: Slaughter In Full Moon

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    A few dayster, on the night of the full moon.


    Prating through the thin mist, the moonlight fell on the grasnd of a basin in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Awoooo! Awoooo!


    On the grassy hill, two second-rank wolf demonsparable in size to tigers and leopards were engaged in a brawl, their flesh and blood tattered, the battle was grueling.


    The two wolf demons, one ck and one gray, had vastly different auras.


    The ck wolf had a sturdy body and a fierce killing aura; the gray wolf was agile and its fur shimmered with a silver glow.


    As Lan Chang''an''s group of four passed by, they observed the scene, then discreetly concealed their magical power and movements.


    "ck Wind Wolf, Gray Moon Wolf. These two types of demon wolves are natural mortal enemies." Zhao Siyao transmitted her thoughts.At this juncture, the four of them had two options: the first was to quietly detour around the wolves and return to Huanglong Immortal City; the second was to wait for both wolves to weaken each other, then swoop in for an easy kill.


    Lan Chang''an had obtained the special demon core and naturally did not want to cause any additional trouble.


    "Husband! The demon core of the Gray Moon Wolf can also rece the Xuanling Fruit as the main ingredient for the Foundation Establishment Pill." Xiao Yingxue said in surprise.


    "Yes, the Gray Moon Wolf absorbs the power of moonlight, and its demon core is pure."


    Chen Fuhai''s eyes lit up as he stared at the gray wolf demon, its fur shimmering with a faint silver glow under the moonlight.


    "Fellow Daoists, can you lend us a helping hand? When the time is right, we can capture that Gray Moon Wolf in one fell swoop." Chen Fuhai invited with eager eyes.


    Xiao Yingxue''s eyes also glimmered with unusual brilliance, "If we seed, we will surely repay you greatly, offering two thousand spirit stones. In addition to the demon core, we will also give you the wolf''s corpse."


    Lan Chang''an understood.


    When Chen Fuhai and his wife did not obtain the special demon core, they agreed to cooperate with him in pill refinement.


    But Lan Chang''an had the priority of choosing the pills, which introduced an element of uncertainty into the arrangement.


    Now, all they had to do to obtain a special demon core was kill an early second-rank Gray Moon Wolf.


    The couple had gathered the remaining materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill, and if they asked a top second-rank alchemist from the sect to make it, they had a chance to obtain three Foundation Establishment Pills.


    One Foundation Establishment Pill versus three Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Even a three-year-old child could understand this difference.


    Moreover, cooperating with Lan Chang''an only gave them a high probability of obtaining one Foundation Establishment Pill.


    If it were Lan Chang''an, he would also choose to take control into his own hands and secure a guaranteed happy ending.


    However, he was a little puzzled.


    A few months ago, second-rank demon beasts with special demon cores were hard to find in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    On the way back, had they really been so lucky as to encounter a Gray Moon Wolf with apatible demon core?


    ...


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao exchanged nces andmunicated through sound transmission.


    Zhao Siyao was clearly tempted, after all, they were only two early second-rank wolf demons, both injured and weakened.


    They had the power of four Foundation Establishment cultivators, including one at the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Looking at the two wolf demons, one ck and one gray, fighting fiercely, Lan Chang''an shook his head slightly.


    Having already secured his goal, he did not want to cause any additional trouble.


    "If Fellow Daoist Lan is unwilling, you can help us keep watch. After we seed, we will send you a small gift."


    Chen Fuhai transmitted his thoughts.


    The couple sessfully persuaded Zhao Siyao and did not force Lan Chang''an. However, killing it presented a different level of difficulty than simply defeating it.


    Inviting other Foundation Establishment cultivators was to ensure stability and cut off the Gray Moon Wolf''s escape route through encirclement.


    The Gray Moon Wolf was agile and swift, extremely fast, and with the geographical advantage of the ck Fog Mountain Range, it had a chance to escape the pursuit of a middle-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, be careful."


    Now that things hade to this, it was not good for Lan Chang''an to dissuade them.


    How could he dissuade them?


    Ask Chen Fuhai and his wife to give up three Foundation Establishment Pills?


    Zhao Siyao came out to train and gain experience for the sake of her cultivation path and to seize opportunities.


    To forcefully persuade them would be tantamount to blocking their path.


    Lan Chang''an had no suitable reason to dissuade them either, he simply did not want to get involved.


    ......


    Howl howl!


    On the grasnd in, the two wolf demons fought fiercely, their bellies ripped open, flesh and blood tattered.


    Zhao Siyao and Chen Fuhai, along with his wife, surrounded them from three directions, quietly approaching.


    Lan Chang''an kept a further distance, responsible for keeping watch.


    In his field of vision, the two demon wolves were indeed defeated.


    Howl!


    The Gray Moon Wolf, relying on its agile body, bit the ck Wind Wolf''s neck.


    It was also seriously injured, its abdomen ruptured, exposing bloody internal organs.


    "Go!"


    Chen Fuhai decisively made his move, bringing out a ck rock magical weapon that swelled to seven or eight zhang in the wind, like a small ck mountain peak, emanating a terrifying spiritual pressure.


    "Top superior-grade magical weapon!"


    Lan Chang''an was slightly moved. Even a second-rank middle-grade defensive talisman would struggle to ward off this mountainous top superior-grade weapon head-on.


    This type of magical weapon had strong frontal suppression butcked a bit of flexibility. if one were to quickly activate an escape talisman, they could evade the attack.


    Zhao Siyao and Xiao Yingxue attacked from the other two sides, bringing out magical weapons to cut off the Gray Moon Wolf''s escape route.


    Boom!


    The ck small mountain peak was imposing, pressing down and smashing the area of several zhang where the Gray Moon Wolf stood.


    The Gray Moon Wolf showed fear on its face, inconvenienced by its heavy injuries, and it failed to dodge the blow, being directly hit.


    A miserable howl!


    Chen Fuhai showed a surprised expression, not expecting to seed so easily. He even worried that the Gray Moon Wolf would be smashed into a meat pie, damaging the demon core.


    "Something''s wrong!"


    Chen Fuhai''s face changed suddenly. Under the ck small mountain peak, there was no corpse of the Gray Moon Wolf.


    Not even a trace of blood.


    Howl!


    The other "heavily injured and dying" ck Wind Wolf suddenly stood up, its fur ck and shiny,pletely unharmed.


    Everything before turned out to be an illusion?


    The ck Wind Wolf''s eyes showed mockery as it turned into a wisp of ck smoke, distancing itself from Chen Fuhai.


    "Where did the Gray Moon Wolf go?"


    "No! That wolf demon is definitely not a Gray Moon Wolf!"


    Cold sweat appeared on Chen Fuhai''s forehead as he activated his protective shield and scanned vigntly with his spiritual sense, but it was limited by the mist.


    Seeing the illusion shatter, Zhao Siyao and Xiao Yingxue, who were on two sides, showed slight discoloration on their faces.


    A gust of chilling wind assaulted Xiao Yingxue''s face, and goosebumps crawled along her arms.


    An illusory figure arrived in the blink of an eye!


    Merging with the moonlight, deceiving the vision, it almost eluded the spiritual sense.


    "Not good!" Xiao Yingxue''s heartbeat elerated as she hastily activated her protective shield and prepared to take out a talisman.


    Whoosh!


    Under the full moon, a wolf w shing with silver light passed by, tearing through the newly lit protective shield.


    Xiao Yingxue''s voluptuous body stiffened, her throat feeling cold.


    A line of blood spread across her elegant snow-white neck.


    Xiao Yingxue unwillingly wanted to reach out her hand, but instead fell "headfirst" to the ground, her body and head separated.


    This scene stunned the other people present.


    A giant wolf with a body covered in silver fur appeared in front of Xiao Yingxue''s corpse.


    Under the full moon, the giant wolf''s fur seemed to be covered with ayer of silver frost, emanating the majesty of an ancient bloodline.


    "Earth-grade bloodline, Heavenly Moon Wolf!" Lan Chang''an''s pupils constricted.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf had a body shape simr to the Gray Moon Wolf, but its bloodline was of a higher grade.


    Under the moonlight, especially on the night of the full moon, this wolf''sbat power could be greatly enhanced.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf before them should have been a middle-stage second-rank demon beast, equivalent to the fifth or sixthyer of the Foundation Establishment stage for humans.


    However, with the blessing of the full moon, its strength wasparable to ate-stage second-rank demon beast.


    Including its illusion abilities, it was elevated by a notch.


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense was stronger than the early Foundation Establishment stage, but not as strong as the middle Foundation Establishment stage.


    In the ck Fog Mountain Range, the spiritual sense and perception were limited by the mist. Coupled with the rtively long distance, he had not seen through the ws in the illusion before.


    Suddenly, he remembered the fleeting feeling of being watched when he killed the White Jade Python.


    Thinking about it now, the White Jade Python was in a period of advancement and might have been targeted by the Heavenly Moon Wolf.


    When Lan Chang''an killed the White Jade Python, the Heavenly Moon Wolf was secretly watching.


    But Lan Chang''an, Zhao Siyao, and the Earth Burrowing Rat were all uninjured and in perfect condition.


    At that time, it was not a moonlit night, so the Heavenly Moon Wolf did not strike out of caution.


    ......


    Under the amplification of the full moon, the Heavenly Moon Wolf unexpectedly killed Xiao Yingxue with one strike.


    Its eyes shed with cunning and yfulness.


    With a w, it ripped open Xiao Yingxue''s abdomen and began to devour her.


    "Yingxue!"


    Chen Fuhai''s eyes were bloodshot, filled with rage. His brain buzzed at the sight of this scene, his body almost shaking.


    Zhao Siyao shuddered, her pretty face turning pale.


    "Beware of illusions! Don''t let your mind be shaken!"


    Lan Chang''an, being further away, was less affected. He silently operated the Evergreen Technique and the Spirit Stabilizing Secret Art from his previous life.


    Before he finished speaking.


    Whoosh whoosh¡ª¡ª


    Two crescent moon des tore through the air, their light even more dazzling under the full moon.


    They shed towards Chen Fuhai and Zhao Siyao respectively.


    Chen Fuhai, due to his wife''s tragic state, was affected by the illusion. His emotions were ignited with great sorrow and anger. It was not until the crescent moon de shed in front of him that he reacted.


    The protective shield was shed through by the crescent moon de.


    He dodged in shock and anger, hastily bringing out a top superior-grade defensive magical weapon, not having time to fully activate it.


    With a "st" sound.


    The magical weapon''s spiritual light dimmed, and an arm was cut off.


    Howl~


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf dragged several silvery phantom images forward, its speed terrifying as it pounced towards Chen Fuhai.


    "Hiss!"


    Not far away, Zhao Siyao let out a muffled groan, her delicate figure swaying like she might copse at any moment.


    She timely deployed the Iron Trellis Umbre, but the moon de sliced through it, leaving a crack.


    St!


    The dimmed and shrunken crescent moon passed by her legs, staining her white dress with blood.


    Fortunately, the Heavenly Moon Wolf was focusing on Chen Fuhai, whose strength was greater, and had not yet turned its attention to her.


    Unfortunately, the other early second-rank ck Wind Wolf swiftly transformed into a wisp of ck smoke, speeding directly toward Zhao Siyao.


    Zhao Siyao''s legs were injured, and she was entangled by the ck Wind Wolf. She brought out the Iron Trellis Umbre to defend, retreating in a fluster.


    "This way!" Lan Chang''an''s voice came from behind.


    When Lan Chang''an was keeping watch before, he chose a position rtively closer to Zhao Siyao.


    Whoosh whoosh!


    A few two-zhang-tall earth spikes burst forth, only to be nimbly dodged by the ck Wind Wolf.


    This bought Zhao Siyao time to catch her breath and regroup with Lan Chang''an.


    "Let''s go!"


    Lan Chang''an grabbed her hand and escaped at a low altitude.


    ....

 Chapter 81: Abnormal Heavenly Moon Wolf

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Howl!


    The ck Wind Wolf was exceptionally cunning, entangling the duo from behind, maintaining a distance without getting close.


    "If we are entangled by this wolf, the Heavenly Moon Wolf will be able to track us down after killing Chen Fuhai." Lan Chang''an''s heart was filled with killing intent.


    This ck Wind Wolf was theckey of the Heavenly Moon Wolf. It had been keeping an eye on the two, leaving a trail of aura along the way for the Heavenly Moon Wolf to followter.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, you heal your injuries first."


    Lan Chang''an had a sh of inspiration and let go of her hand.


    Zhao Siyao''s face was pale, her legs weak, barely sitting on the ground, using pills and ointments to heal her injuries.


    Lan Chang''an went alone towards the ck Wind Wolf.A lone Qi-Refining stage cultivator, the ck Wind Wolf was not afraid.


    In a sh of ck shadow, its ws tore towards Lan Chang''an''s abdomen.


    Lan Chang''an activated a second-rank talisman, ayer of earth armor protecting his body.


    With a "bang" sound.


    The earth armor trembled, its light dimming a bit.


    Lan Chang''an was not flustered at all. In recent years, he had improved a lot in his body refinement manual, his physical body was stronger than that of non-scaled beasts like the moon wolves.


    Thisyer of earth armor was like steel armor over iron clothes.


    He brought out a set of magical weapons, the Frost Iron Thorns.


    Six delicate cold lights shuttled and surrounded within ten zhang of his body.


    Each Frost Iron Thorn was an elite piece among middle-grade magical weapons, their powerparable to top superior-grade weapons when controlled by one with a strong spiritual sense.


    Ding! Ding!


    The ck Wind Wolf deflected with its ws, constantly dodging the Frost Iron Thorns, somewhat irritated.


    Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen mana was close to the sect''s ordinary techniques, not as good as the core disciples, but not truly weak either.


    Moreover, spiritual sense was also a key factor determining the lethality of magical weapons.


    Whoosh!


    One of the Frost Iron Thorns suddenly curved, passing by the ck Wind Wolf''s abdomen, leaving a shallow bloody trail.


    The ck Wind Wolf howled, its body stiffening, its venomous gaze fixed on Lan Chang''an.


    The wound was very shallow.


    But the Frost Iron Thorns were coated with second-rank deadly poison!


    Even with the strong physique of demon beasts, it would inevitably suffer some effects.


    Boom!


    The ground beneath the ck Wind Wolf''s feet cracked open.


    A giant orange-yellow rat with purplish fur emerged, revealing a sharp w, its coldness piercing.


    The ck Wind Wolf swung its ws to parry, not taking a rat demon seriously.


    However, upon shing, the Earth Burrowing Rat''s attacks were fierce, each w more brutal than thest.


    Howl~


    The ck Wind Wolf was poisoned and inconvenienced. After only defending for a few breaths, its abdomen was wed open, and its internal organs shattered.


    Pow!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat smashed its wolf head with another w, its brownish-red eyes revealing a greedy and bloodthirsty emotion.


    It turned out that not only Lan Chang''an held back.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat also concealed part of its strength in the previous battle.


    Due to the mutation in its bloodline, its true strength, especially in closebat, was much stronger than imagined.


    "Retreat!"


    Lan Chang''an recalled the Earth Burrowing Rat and retreated with Zhao Siyao.


    ......


    "Use my flying boat."


    Zhao Siyao took out a second-rank flying boat, carrying the two at low altitude.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, your leg injury?"


    Lan Chang''an looked at her blood-stained white dress. Although she had applied medicine to stop the bleeding immediately, her legs remained stiff.


    Lan Chang''an reached out and touched through the dress, his expression solemn.


    The injury was more severe than imagined, nearly severed!


    After applying medicine to stop the bleeding, the leg was forcibly held together by magic power.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, if your leg bones are not reconnected..." Lan Chang''an''s face showed reluctance as he hesitated.


    "Sorry to trouble you, Fellow Daoist Lan, please help me reconnect the bones and realign them, no need to be constrained by etiquette." Zhao Siyao''s face was pale as she forced a smile.


    She was clear that if the severed legs were not reconnected in time, she might be disabled.


    The injury to her legs reduced her strength and mobility by more than half.


    If caught up by the Heavenly Moon Wolf, there would be no chance of survival.


    Lan Chang''an nodded, scanning their surroundings for a suitable location. When he found a deep and narrow ravine, hended the flying boat at the bottom.


    ......


    Zhao Siyao sat on the flying boat, her back leaning against the cliff wall, nearly paralyzed.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, sorry for the offense."


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged in front of her and lifted her white dress.


    A pair of delicate and crystal-like legs came into view.


    Above, her snow-white skin like congealed cream was stained with blood.


    The wound of the fractured bone, near the knee, was forcibly connected under the effect of second-rank healing medicine and magic power.


    Crack!


    Lan Chang''an grabbed one ice-cold calf, adjusting the bones and pouring Evergreen mana into the limb to heal and nourish it.


    Even without consuming lifespan, the normal healing effect of the Evergreen Technique was quite good.


    Zhao Siyao groaned in pain, her silver teeth biting her vermilion lips, her eyes closed.


    The pain made cold sweat soak through her dress, but she did not say a word.


    Crack!


    Lan Chang''an grasped the other jade-like leg and repeated the process.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao''s second-rank healing medicine is of good quality, it has stabilized your condition for now." Lan Chang''an bandaged the fractured area.


    "Thank you, Fellow Daoist Lan. The healing effect of your wood system technique is also very effective." Zhao Siyao opened her beautiful eyes, her pale face adorned with a slight blush as she forced a smile.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, heal your wound as soon as possible and recover some strength. Once dawn breaks, we will return to Huanglong Immortal City." Lan Chang''an said.


    "Dawn?"


    Zhao Siyao immediately understood. During the day, there was no moon, and the threat of the Heavenly Moon Wolf would drop by a level.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, will the Heavenly Moon Wolf follow our trail here?" Zhao Siyao felt a bit uneasy in her heart.


    After all, the Heavenly Moon Wolf had an earth-grade bloodline. When amplified by moonlight, its abilities were indeed terrifying.


    "It shouldn''t."


    Lan Chang''an was at ease.


    "Along the way, I cast a spell to eliminate the bloody scent and the smell on our bodies, and also sprinkled special medicinal powder on the flying boat to conceal it."


    In his previous life, he was skilled in tracking techniques. Although not considered top-notch, it was enough for use within the third rank.


    "That''s good then."


    Zhao Siyao''s eyes and brows rxed slightly.


    Lan Chang''an''s meticulous thinking made her feel much more at ease.


    However, at this moment.


    Howl~~


    Yet, just then, a wolf''s howl echoed from above the deep ravine, apanied by the powerful aura of ate second-rank beast.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression stiffened, his face slightly flushed.


    Zhao Siyao''s face trembled, despair shing in her eyes.


    At this moment, she felt regret. If she had not meddled and participated in hunting the Gray Moon Wolf earlier, she would not have fallen into this crisis.


    "Cough! The situation is not as bad as you might imagine." Lan Chang''an''s expression was a bit embarrassed, but he remained rtively calm.


    "Just in case for something like this, I chose this ravine which is sheltered from direct moonlight."


    Zhao Siyao looked up. The opening above the ravine was narrow, with many trees and vines growing between the rock walls.


    At this time, the full moon was tilted at a certain angle, indeed unable to directly shine down to their location.


    If the Heavenly Moon Wolf were to chase down, its strength would fall to the middle second rank.


    Zhao Siyao was previously distracted by her injuries and did not notice this detail earlier.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan''s consideration is thorough."


    Zhao Siyao closed her eyes to cultivate and took another pill, striving to recover more strength.


    ......


    Between the cliff walls above, the powerful aura of the Heavenly Moon Wolf drew closer bit by bit.


    Whoosh!


    Soon, an agile silver giant wolf leaped down from the rock walls.


    Without the blessing of moonlight, the Heavenly Moon Wolf''s aura plummeted, falling to the middle second rank.


    But as an earth-grade bloodline, its strength was much greater than an ordinary middle second-rank demon beast.


    Lan Chang''an sat in front of Zhao Siyao, holding a handful of second-rank talismans in hand, and brought out the top superior-grade defensive magical weapon, the White Scale Shield.


    Thinking of the Heavenly Moon Wolf''s moon de technique, he also took out the Exotic White Pearl.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf''s dark silver eyes coldly gazed at Lan Chang''an. Seeing the handful of second-rank talismans in his hand, its pupils slightly contracted.


    Lan Chang''an returned the gaze with a nk expression.


    Suddenly.


    The snow-white dressed Zhao Fairy in front of him took off her dress, her wonderful body of icy flesh and jade bones shyly throwing herself into his arms.


    "Parlor trick!"


    Lan Chang''anughed coldly in his heart, having been prepared early, seeing through the illusion before him.


    He had the Spirit Stabilizing Secret Art from his previous life, and the mental fortitude afforded him by the Evergreen Technique.


    With preparation, let alone the Heavenly Moon Wolf''s current strength had fallen, even with the amplification of moonlight, it could not shake him.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an pretended to be affected by the illusion, treating it like watching a short movie.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was secretly hidden underground, having buried the second-rank talisman disc.


    As long as the Heavenly Moon Wolf approached, it would trigger the array and unleash enough power to kill a middle second-rank demon beast with weaker defenses.


    "Lan Chang''an, how dare you treat me like somemon strumpet!" A clear rebuke, both shy and angry, came from the Fairy Zhao beside him.


    "If you don''t back off, don''t me my sword for being merciless!"


    Obviously, Zhao Siyao was affected by the illusion.


    The corner of Lan Chang''an''s mouth twitched.


    Subconsciously, it seemed this Fairy Zhao had no romantic feelings for a certain someone.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf floated down from the sky, cautiously approaching the two.


    "Take three more steps forward." Lan Chang''an was silently reciting in his heart.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf was agile and specialized in moonlight spells, but its physical defense was not outstanding among second-rank demons.


    Once this wolf entered the hidden talisman formation, it would at least be heavily injured.


    Cooperating with the Earth Burrowing Rat, Zhao Siyao, and Lan Chang''an''s middle-grade second-rank talismans, they could only happily ept one more special demon core.


    Swish!


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf''s steps suddenly paused, its cunning eyes revealing vignce and confusion.


    Two more steps and it would step into the minefield.


    "It stopped? This Heavenly Moon Wolf''s mind is abnormal."


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly, his mind merged with the first life of the Nine Seal Stele, amplifying his soul perception.


    Hmm?


    He noticed an anomaly: the Heavenly Moon Wolf''s soul and body were somewhat disharmonious.


    This was the feeling conveyed by the Nine Seal Stele.


    Lan Chang''an formed a guess in his heart.


    No wonder this wolf would actively scheme against human cultivators, its illusion techniques so sophisticated, its intelligence surpassing demons of the same rank.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf''s eyes flickered as it took a deep look at Lan Chang''an, surprisingly slowly retreating.


    "Ugh!"


    At this moment, Zhao Siyao let out a groan, breaking free from the illusion.


    Seeing Lan Chang''an with his clothes intact, her expression became unnatural.

 Chapter 82: Pill Refinement Plan

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Howl~


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf soared into the sky, disying a scar about a foot long on its nk.


    "The Heavenly Moon Wolf is also injured; it seems it doesn¡¯t want to fight us to the death?" Zhao Siyao rxed slightly and transmitted her thoughts.


    "Perhaps," Lan Chang''an suspected the Heavenly Moon Wolf sensed the talisman formation buried underground or even detected his potential threat.


    Lan Chang''an''s strength was not limited to his physical body and spiritual sense but also included the Nine Seal Stele and his trump cards from his past and present lives.


    These were things he preferred never to use.


    Once a trump card is revealed, it can no longer be considered a trump card.


    "That Heavenly Moon Wolf is quite strange..." Lan Chang''an pondered for a long time.In the vast world of cultivation, there are countless oddities. For high-level cultivators, possession and reincarnation were not umon.


    ...


    Late at night, Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao sat on a flying boat, leaning against the stone wall.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, my leg injury is not yet stable. If we set off at dawn and the Heavenly Moon Wolf attacks secretly or we encounter other mid-second-rank demonic beasts, I might be a burden." Zhao Siyao said worriedly, her delicate eyebrows furrowed.


    "What do you suggest?" Lan Chang''an understood her reasoning.


    Naturally, he wanted to return to Huanglong Immortal City as soon as possible to refine the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    If they did not leave tomorrow, they might encounter further trouble in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan''s technique has good healing effects," Zhao Siyao''s voice was soft.


    "Could you help speed up the healing process of my broken bones tonight? That way, I can regain some strength before we set off tomorrow."


    "It''s not troublesome, but it might be ufortable for Fellow Daoist Zhao." Lan Chang''an nced at her. Her eyes were clear, her expression serious.


    "Since it''s about our safety, Fellow Daoist Lan doesn''t have to stick to small details. After so many years of friendship, Siyao believes in Fellow Daoist Lan''s character." Zhao Siyao said frankly, lifting the hem of her white dress.


    She had recently cleaned it with a spell.


    At this moment, the white dress was spotless. Under the lifted skirt, a pair of long, jade-like legs were revealed, but near the knee, there was a circle of scars.


    Even having lived through two lifetimes, Lan Chang''an rarely saw such perfect legs.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, my apologies." Lan Chang''an focused his thoughts, ced his hand on her cool, smooth calf near the knee, and injected Evergreen mana, massaging evenly around her leg.


    During this process, Zhao Siyao endured the intense pain and barely managed to show a slight smile, signaling Lan Chang''an to proceed without worry.


    Lan Chang''an secretly admired her straightforward nature.


    Zhao Siyao''s concession was for their safety, not wanting to be a burden.


    Throughout the night, Lan Chang''an used Evergreen mana to massage Zhao Siyao''s legs ten times.


    The effect was good; Zhao Siyao''s leg injuries stabilized, and she could exert seventy percent of her power.


    However, for the broken bones to fully heal, she would need half a year of recuperation after returning.


    During this period, fighting was not advisable.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind revealing the healing effects of Evergreen mana.


    Many wood-based techniques were good at healing.


    As long as one did not expend their longevity, it was not unheard of for such techniques to possess great regenerative capabilities, even bringing the dead back to life. Such feats would not surprise a Foundation Establishment cultivator like Zhao Siyao.


    Zhao Siyao noticed that Lan Chang''an''s technique wasn¡¯t themon Ancient Wood Art, which was good at healing wounds but not outstanding in terms of mana.


    ...


    The next morning.


    Zhao Siyao piloted the flying boat, carrying Lan Chang''an out of the ravine.


    Earlier, flying puppets and the Earth Burrowing Rat had scouted near the ravine''s entrance.


    The flying boat gradually ascended, leaving the ravine behind.


    Lan Chang''an had no intention of returning to investigate the battle site fromst night, to avoid unnecessaryplications.


    They returned to the ground, avoiding high-altitude flight, and set off on their journey back.


    On a hill several li away.


    The agile Heavenly Moon Wolf, with its dark silver eyes, watched the backs of Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao as they departed.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf looked wary, not daring to get too close.


    Last night, it sensed Lan Chang''an¡¯s extraordinary physique and spiritual sense, feeling only slightly surprised.


    The other party''s body was pure, his flow of qi and blood unimpeded, his fortune and longevity intertwined; he made for an excellent target.


    At that moment, the Heavenly Moon Wolf had nned to utilize its innate divine ability to control him through possession.


    Below mid-Foundation Establishment, possession ought to have been a simple task. Moreover, the man before it was only a ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator.


    Yet, somehow, it had sensed danger, an inexplicable feeling of unease.


    "This person, I''m afraid he has a great origin," the Heavenly Moon Wolf muttered, its dark silver eyes glowing green.


    Behind it.


    Behind it, a portly middle-aged man draped in arge cloak stood expressionlessly.


    It was Chen Fuhai, in the mid-Foundation Establishment, from the Qingzhu Sect.


    At this moment, Chen Fuhai''s eyes glowed green, and his severed arm was already as good as new.


    ...


    A monthter.


    In the northern city of Huanglong, a flying boat carrying a man and a woman returned after a long journey.


    "When does Fellow Daoist Lan n to refine the pills?" Zhao Siyao, in a white dress, asked, her pretty face had restored some redness.


    "I n to wait for Fellow Daoist Chen to return and adjust my state to its peak in the meantime. Fellow Daoist Zhao, I hope you''lle to lend me your support when the timees.


    The materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill were now all gathered. However, the pill could not be refined carelessly.


    Once the Foundation Establishment Pill was made, if the news leaked, it would be a hot potato everyone wanted to snatch away.


    Lan Chang''an nned to first adjust his cultivation state to its peak.


    When the pill was refined, he would immediately seclude himself in one of Huanglong Mountain''s caves to breakthrough.


    He absolutely refused to allow the Foundation Establishment Pills to remain in his possession overnight.


    As for whether Chen Fuhai could return alive, Lan Chang''an did not hold much hope.


    He was just waiting and seeing.


    "Rest assured, Fellow Daoist Lan, I will be in Huanglong Immortal City these years. I will be there when you start the pill refinement." Zhao Siyao promised, her eyes shining brightly.


    After the battle in the ck Fog Mountain Range, their rtionship had grown closer.


    It wasn¡¯t about romantic feelings, but rather the kind of trust and camaraderie born from fighting side by side.


    In the inner city, near the Jin Yun Valley station.


    Lan Chang''an bid Zhao Siyao farewell, his lone self taking off on a magical device.


    Standing atop her fying boat, Zhao Siyao watched the white-robed man¡¯s figure disappear into the distance.


    She was dazed for a long time.


    "In two years, Fellow Daoist Lan will be nearing seventy." she sighed, her beautiful eyes showing worry and reluctance.


    Reason told her: Even if Lan Chang''an obtained the Foundation Establishment Pill, the probability of sess was very low.


    From the time of being an immortal seedling to now being a sect¡¯s Foundation Establishment cultivator, Lan Chang''an was a very important friend in her cultivation journey.


    When she became a core disciple and sought opportunities to build her foundation, the other party had sent charcoal in snowy weather.[1]


    In the recent ck Fog Mountain Range incident, they fought side by side, trusting and cooperating perfectly.


    Such a friend would most likely be a passing figure in her cultivation journey.


    At this thought, Zhao Siyao''s mood inevitably sank.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an returned to Water Moon Residence.


    Under Guan Qiao¡¯s service, he enjoyed a good bath.


    The simple act of bathing served to rx his body and mind.


    This trip to the ck Fog Mountain Range had been one fraught with peril, but the dangers had ultimately proved manageable.


    Compared to the wickedness of the human world and openly bidding for Foundation Establishment Pills in public auctions, these risks were more controble.


    He had a lifespan of two hundred years, and at sixty or seventy, he was in his prime, at the age when his body was at its best condition.


    If dyed until over a hundred years old to build his foundation, his physical functions would decline.


    "At sixty-two, I achieved the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, by about seventy, my magical power, blood, and body will reach their peak." Lan Chang''an mused, having a keen sense of his longevity and physical condition.


    "The year of my ancient age[2] is when I will build my foundation!" He made a resolute decision.


    So what if he was older?


    In this life, he would earn respect through age!


    The longer one lives, the greater one''s umtions be.


    He would grow stronger with age, bing a venerable senior, akin to a living fossil or an evesting tree in the world of immortal cultivation.


    ...


    After the bath, Lan Chang''an felt clear-minded and enjoyed a meal of spiritual delicacies.


    He interacted with the Profound Water Turtle, which he hadn¡¯t seen for a while.


    In the following days.


    He resumed his normal cultivation, replenishing the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s lost Evergreen mana, while tempering his body and honing his techniques at a slower pace.


    Lan Chang''an sought an optimal state of body and mind, neither too tired nor too idle.


    Sometimes he visited the Pill Heart Residence next door, drinking and chatting with Du Wei, inquiring about the situation of gathering for pill refinement.


    Du Wei spilled the beans after drinking: every few years in Huanglong Immortal City, there would be Xuanling Fruits or special demon cores, but these were monopolized by the upper echelons.


    Those in the Qi-Refining stage at the bottom of the pyramid had no ess to these resources.


    Lan Chang''an had a special demon core and had gathered all the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill, but he hadn¡¯t revealed this to Du Wei as the time wasn¡¯t right.


    "I''ll wait two years for Chen Fuhai. If he doesn¡¯t return to Huanglong Immortal City, I''ll have to partner with someone else." Lan Chang''an nned.


    He even considered cooperating with the Mu Family to refine the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    However, the Huang Family and the Mu Family were still in a standoff, with constant minor conflicts arising every now and then.


    If he cooperated with the Mu Family for the pill refinement, it would inevitably draw the hostility of the Maple Leaf Huang Family, directly involving him in the conflict between the two families.


    Before advancing to Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an felt he didn¡¯t qualify to get involved in such affairs.


    ...


    After returning to Huanglong City, Lan Chang''an received a letter from Li Erqing.


    The letter exined the reasons for his Foundation Establishment and the current situation of the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake.


    Perhaps worried about the letter being intercepted, some details were vague.


    Lan Chang''an deduced that the second-rank spirit beast the Mu Family secretly bought years ago was nearing the end of its lifespan.


    Without the aged second-rank spirit beast, the only Foundation Establishment cultivators in the Mu Family were Mu Renlong and Li Erqing.


    In addition, Mu Xiuyun, a second-rank talisman master, could provide some auxiliary battle support.


    In recent years, the Maple Leaf Huang Family hadn¡¯tunched a major offensive, partly to recover their strength and partly to wait out the old second-rank spirit beast of the Mu Family.


    ...


    Two yearster, approaching seventy, Lan Chang''an decisively gave up on Chen Fuhai and sought new partners for alchemy.


    This time, he nned to implement a different strategy.


    He would have Zhao Siyao act as a partner cultivator in refining the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    On the surface, they would cooperate in the pill refinement, but in reality, all the Foundation Establishment Pills would belong to Lan Chang''an.


    This n maximized his benefits. Even if there were some minor ws, he could still expect to acquire two or more Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Footnotes:


    [1] The phrase ''Ñ©ÖÐËÍÌ¿''(xu¨§ zh¨­ng s¨°ng t¨¤n) is a Chinese idiom that literally trantes to ''sending charcoal in snowy weather.'' It figuratively means providing timely help or assistance in someone''s hour of need.


    [2-IMPORTANT] The phrase ''¹ÅÏ¡Ö®Äê''(g¨³ x¨© zh¨© ni¨¢n) is a Chinese expression that refers to a person''s seventieth year of age. It carries the connotation of reaching an advanced stage of life, often with the implication of wisdom and experience umted over the years. Keep this in mind, as it will start being used frequently in a few chapters.

 Chapter 83: The Foundation Establishment Pill Completion

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    This n faces two minor issues.


    First, Zhao Siyao does had no need for the Foundation Establishment Pill, and thus hasn''t collected the necessary materials for nearly ten years. It would be easy for someone with keen eyes to notice this anomaly.


    Second, if more than one Foundation Establishment Pill is sessfully refined, Zhao Siyao will handle one of them. Can she resist the temptation of a Foundation Establishment Pill? Indeed, Lan Chang''an ced great trust in Zhao Siyao, and their rtionship was unbreakable. But in the cultivation world, were there not many cases of fellow disciples turning against each other over Foundation Establishment Pills?


    Neither these two points presented a significant problem.


    First, after he reaches Foundation Establishment, the source of the materials would no longer matter.


    Second, at worst, he would lose one Foundation Establishment Pill. Losing a single Foundation Establishment Pill would be no more than an inconvenience.


    He believed that Zhao Siyao, a Foundation Establishment cultivator with whom he shared decades of friendship, would not covet the Foundation Establishment Pill


    ...Two dayster, Zhao Siyao came to visit and brought news about Chen Fuhai.


    "Chen Fuhai is not dead?"


    Lan Chang''an was stunned for a moment.


    Zhao Siyao handed him a letter with the "Qingzhu Sect" seal on it.


    "Under the pursuit of the Heavenly Moon Wolf, Chen Fuhai used a secret technique to escape by luck? He has been healing in the ck Fog Mountain Range for more than a year and rushed back to the sect to report the death of his partner and arrange the funeral."


    "Because he lost his storage pouch, Chen Fuhai couldn''t provide the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill, so he asked me to find someone else to cooperate in refining the pill?"


    Lan Chang''an was surprised, but this was not beyond reason.


    A difference of only one minor realm, coupled with the use of a secret technique, meant that Chen Fuhai''s escape not considered strange in the cultivation world.


    Moreover, the Heavenly Moon Wolf was not a fully formedte second-rank demon beast, it was only a temporary state.


    "After recovering, Chen Fuhai left so quickly that he didn''t even stop by Huanglong Immortal City to say goodbye?" Lan Chang''an found it a bit strange.


    Considering the pain of losing one''s spouse, Chen Fuhai''s hasty departure was understandable, even if inconsiderate.


    In the letter, Chen Fuhai expressed his apologies for missing the appointment.


    ...


    Chen Fuhai not participating in the pill refinement did not change Lan Chang''an''s n.


    "If Fellow Daoist Lan is willing to trust me, I can certainly cooperate with you in your pill-refining efforts," Zhao Siyao agreed without hesitation upon hearing Lu Chang''an''s proposal.


    "Oh, by the way, a few years ago, I visited my ancestral home in the Zhao Family to pay respects to the graves and epted a female disciple with good potential. Although she is still far from establishing her foundation, as her master, I have a need to n for a Foundation Establishment Pill for her."


    Zhao Siyao''s eyes sparkled with a half-smile.


    Lan Chang''an was taken aback, not expecting this woman to suddenly y mind games.


    However, since Zhao Siyao had made her intentions clear, it showed her straightforwardness.


    When it came to finding someone for this pill refinement cobration, the Foundation Establishment cultivator Lan Chang''an trusted the most was Zhao Siyao.


    Even Li Erqing ranked below her. Mainly because he had too many descendants!


    Ordinary cultivation families had difficulty nning for a Foundation Establishment Pill, making the temptation significant and the variables numerous.


    The next day.


    Lan Chang''an visited Pill Heart Residence next door to discuss the pill-refinement with Du Wei.


    "You found a special demon core?" Du Wei was shocked.


    In order to prove that this was no joke, Lan Chang''an produced the White Jade Python''s demon core before him.


    "The attributes are pure and neutral, meeting the conditions."


    After Du Wei''s appraisal, his expression wasplex.


    In truth, if a Foundation Establishment cultivator from another sect had sought out an alchemist, they could have simply paid Alchemist Hua a visit without needing to go through Du Wei.


    Lan Chang''an did this as a favor.


    By using Du Wei as an intermediary, he added an extrayer of connection. There was no harm in having an extrayer of rtionship through Du Wei to pull the strings.


    Du Wei would also help with the actual refining process when they began to produce the pills.


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an gave Du Wei the remainder of the low-grade second-rank alchemy inheritance.


    Du Wei was very grateful and felt a surge of emotions inside: this inheritance, which had hung over him for more than twenty years, was finallypleted.


    ...


    Three dayster, Du Wei introduced Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao to Alchemist Hua.


    Alchemist Hua confirmed the materials and discussed the pill refining fee.


    They agreed to refine the pills in two months.


    This was already considered cutting in line.


    Alchemist Hua was a top-notch alchemist among the wandering cultivators in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Many of the cultivators who sought him out for alchemy were in the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators often had to wait half a year for his services.


    The two-month period was the result of Du Wei''s efforts.


    Lan Chang''an decided not to return to Water Moon Residence and instead rented a cave dwelling at the foot of Huanglong Mountain for six months.


    Huanglong Mountain was the cultivation site of the Huanglong Immortal''s lineage, with better security and environment than the inner city.


    He brought the Profound Water Turtle and the Earth Burrowing Rat along, along with Guan Qiaozhi to tend to them.


    Lan Chang''an was worried that news about the main materials of the Foundation Establishment Pill would leak out, making Water Moon Residence unsafe to live at.


    Once the Foundation Establishment Pill was refined, he would attempt to establish his foundation directly in the cave dwelling.


    ...


    Two months passed without any incidents.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao arrived at Alchemist Hua''s residence as scheduled.


    In the alchemy hall they had visited years ago.


    Lan Chang''an saw Alchemist Hua once more, that emaciated old man with a full head of white hair and a youthful face.


    Over the years, Alchemist Hua''s cultivation had advanced further, and he was now a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Alchemist Hua."


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao greeted him.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, Fellow Daoist Lan, we need to recheck your materials before starting the alchemy." Alchemist Hua spoke.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao each took out a set of materials.


    Lan Chang''an''s portion included the special demon core, so his ingredients were both more numerous and more valuable.


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an had collected many duplicate materials, all handed over to Zhao Siyao to make up the numbers.


    "Based on value, Young Friend Lan will have priority in choosing the pills. Does Fellow Daoist Zhao have any objections?" Alchemist Hua nced at Lan Chang''an, slightly surprised.


    During the alchemy session more than ten years ago, he hadrgely ignored Lan Chang''an''s presence.


    Unexpectedly, today, this elderly wandeirng cultivator could gather the key materials for a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Before refining pills for someone, Alchemist Hua would naturally have his disciples investigate their background.


    This was especially important given their previous encounter with the Demonic Eagnle Xie Mianfei, who had sought pills from them.


    An alchemist in the Qi-Refining stage would not affect a cultivator of Alchemist Hua''s status, but it would be a joke if word got out.


    "I have no objections. Fellow Daoist Lan can have the priority." Zhao Siyao smiled.


    Alchemist Hua instructed the two to observe from a distance and not to interfere.


    He stored the materials and entered the hall to start refining.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao sat on the mats outside the hall.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, rest assured. The method of using a demon core to refine a Foundation Establishment Pill is precisely my master''s specialty. The first Foundation Establishment Pill he refined was with this method." Du Wei kindly reassured him.


    "My master''s alchemy skills have practically reached the superior-grade second-rank level, and he is eager to prove himself. He will undoubtedly give his all this time."


    "Thank you for your reassurance, Fellow Daoist Du. I trust your master''s skills." Lan Chang''an deliberately showed a bit of nervousness.


    As a Core Formation cultivator who had rebuilt his foundation, with a solid foundation with the Evergreen Technique, he had a fair chance of sessfully advancing without a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    There was also a backup inferior Foundation Establishment Pill in his storage pouch.


    His pursuit of obtaining a standard Foundation Establishment Pill was merely to increase his chances of sess, ensuring he had at least a ny percent probability of attaining Foundation Establishment.


    "If Du Wei''s words are true, there is hope to produce three pills in this batch." Zhao Siyao smiled optimistically.


    "May Fellow Daoist Zhao''s wordse true," Lan Chang''an replied, wishing himself luck.


    ...


    Five dayster.


    A faint medicinal fragrance wafted from the hall, refreshing the mind.


    At this time, the pill refining was nearing its end, Alchemist Hua was wholly focused on his work, his brows gradually rxing into a faint smile.


    "Master, Miss Fu hase to visit!"


    A disciple rushed inside with a report.


    Alchemist Hua did not meet visitors while refining pills, even if they were Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    But in Huanglong Immortal City, there were always some people with extraordinary status.


    "No need to disturb Alchemist Hua''s pill refinement, I have no urgent matters." A clear and ethereal female voice came.


    A stunning woman with longvender hair floated down to the alchemy hall.


    She was like an orchid in an empty valley, with a beautiful face as white as snow, her beauty pure rather than seductive.


    Dressed in a moon-white robe, her graceful figure was outlined, like a fairy descended to the mortal world.


    Her lips were naturally red, her brows naturally green.


    Her demeanor carried a faint mncholy, exuding a unique aloofness that made people hesitant to approach.


    "Miss Fu."


    Alchemist Hua, who was currently refining the batch of pills, smiled warmly, unsurprised by her arrival.


    Fu Xue Mei stepped closer to observe, and the Alchemist Hua had no objections.


    "What is Fu Xue Mei doing here?" Lu Chang''an asked, meeting Zhao Siyao''s eyes.


    Lu Chang''an wasn''t concerned that Fu Xuemei would covet the Foundation Establishment Pills. For one, years ago, she had partnered with a family cultivator to refine pills, and he had gotten a Foundation Establishment Pill without any mishap.


    This demonstrated that Fu Xuemei was trustworthy and not arrogant. Secondly, she had already secured a Foundation Establishment Pill for her brother using a Xuanling Fruit.


    .....


    Fu Xuemei nced at Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao, nodding slightly.


    She sat down near the pill furnace, observing Alchemist Hua working in silence without disturbing him.


    Two more days passed.


    The pill furnace glowed with spiritual light, and a rich medicinal fragrance wafted from it.


    The final stage of the refining process had arrived.


    "Open!"


    The alchemist shouted, his hands shing in a double-handed incantation gesture as he performed the opening furnace technique.


    Buzz!


    A colorful mist burst forth from the lid of the furnace, sweeping away in a wave of heat.


    Above the pill furnace, an illusory cloud appeared, enveloped in a halo of colored light.


    "This kind of omen..."


    Lan Chang''an noticed that it was slightly different from thest batch.


    Swoosh!


    Wrapped in the illusory cloud, three medicinal pills fell into the alchemist''s hand.


    Lan Chang''an took a closer look.


    Two of the pills were crystalline and lustrous, while the third was jet-ck like coal.


    Alchemist Hua''s face lit up with joy as he carefully extracted one of the Foundation Establishment Pills; it bore four and a half Dao patterns!


    "A superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill!"

 Chapter 84: Attempting Foundation Establishment

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill!"


    Inside the main hall, Alchemist Hua''s disciple, Lan Chang''an, Zhao Siyao, and the newly arrived Fu Xuemei, all were either surprised or moved.


    A standard Foundation Establishment Pill, with four dao patterns, can increase the sess rate of foundation establishment by 20%.


    A superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill, with four and a half dao patterns, increases the sess rate by approximately 25%.


    A top-grade Foundation Establishment Pill, with five dao patterns, increases the sess rate by 30%, breaking the original limitations of the pill, a rare sight in the cultivation world!


    Superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pills, while not as rare as top-grade ones, are still very scarce.


    When the superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill was produced, Lan Chang''an''s first reaction was not joy.


    Instead, he felt something was unusual!His expectation had not been as high as to hope for a superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill.


    If two standard Foundation Establishment Pills were produced, that would have met his mental threshold.


    "Alchemist Hua, superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pills are rare. May this humble woman have a look?" Fu Xuemei''s tranquil eyes, bright as stars at night, and her dainty fingers slightly tensed.


    "Haha! This time, I performed exceptionally well."


    Alchemist Hua said gleefully, holding the medicinal pills as if he could never let them go. He handed them over without consulting Lan Chang''an or Zhao Siyao.


    At this, both Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao frowned slightly, while Du Wei''s mustache quivered nervously, though he dared not say a word.


    Fu Xuemei gazed at the superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill in her hand, her eyes somewhat obsessed, as if she had obtained a coveted treasure.


    Seeming to realize something, she nced over at Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao.


    ...


    "Alchemist Hua, what is the background of that person?"


    Fu Xuemei, returning to her serene demeanor,municated with Alchemist Hua through sound transmission.


    She visited today at the invitation of Alchemist Hua.


    These past few days, Fu Xuemei learned that the priority for the Foundation Establishment Pill belonged to the young man in the white robe, who was at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Alchemist Hua replied to Fu Xuemei through sound transmission. After listening, Fu Xuemei turned her gaze towards Lan Chang''an.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I am Fu Xuemei. I have been abrupt."


    Fu Xuemei made a long and dignified bow, her light purple hair falling, covering her stunning face.


    "Miss Fu, this is not necessary!"


    Seeing Fu Xuemei bowing nearly ny degrees, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but smile wryly.


    Given her precious status, such a deep bow made her intentions clear.


    He signaled with his eyes, asking Zhao Siyao to help Fu Xuemei up.


    "Miss Fu, this superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill belongs to Fellow Daoist Lan." Zhao Siyao reminded.


    "I understand."


    Fu Xuemei, still holding the Foundation Establishment Pill, looked somewhat apologetic.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, have you heard about my younger brother?"


    She looked at Lan Chang''an, her empty voice carrying a hint of sorrow.


    "My brother¡¯s name is Fu Dong, with the ''Dong'' meaning winter. In the winter decades ago, if he hadn''t begged from door to door, my frail and sickly self would have died from hunger and cold."


    "At the age of ten, he carried me, trekking for over ten li in the snow, to deliver me to the doctor, kneeling at the doorstep until dawn."


    "At the age of thirteen, if not for his desperate fight, I would have been sold to a brothel by the elders of the beggar gang..."


    Fu Xuemei took a deep breath, her proud chest rising and falling with emotion.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, if you had such a younger brother, could you bear to see him leave you halfway?"


    "Miss Fu, your deep love for your sibling, Lan has heard of it. Unfortunately, I do not have such a younger brother." Lan Chang''an remained expressionless, but inwardly, Fu Xuemei''s story of siblings bound by adversity had stirred something in his heart¡ªyet not by much.


    "If you were not Fu Xuemei, not an earth grade spiritual root genius and a disciple of Huanglong Immortal, in the harsh world of immortal cultivation, how many people would patiently listen to your tale of sibling bonds?"


    Lan Chang''an did not say this aloud.


    At the moment, he was not in a position to argue with Fu Xuemei. He couldn''t, nor could Zhao Siyao.


    In the Liang Kingdom''s immortal cultivation world, Huanglong Immortal was renowned and powerful, not only a core formation cultivator but also possessing a third-rank Huang Dragon spiritual pet with a strong bloodline.


    Apart from the Nascent Soul True Monarch of the me Departing Pce, most other Core Formation cultivators in various sects were not his match.


    Moreover, Huanglong Immortal had extensive connections, with ties to several major sects and even the immortal cultivation world of neighboring countries.


    Zhao Siyao was just an unimportant disciple of a Fake-Dan Immortal of her sect and could not bepared.


    In Huanglong Immortal City, Fu Xuemei''s status was even more elevated.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an took another Foundation Establishment Pill from Alchemist Hua''s hand, this one bearing fourplete Dao patterns.


    One standard Foundation Establishment Pill was a guarantee, meeting the minimum expectation.


    "Miss Fu might as well be straightforward. Do you want to purchase this superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill, or do you intend to take it directly?" Lan Chang''an didn''t want to beat around the bush.


    Fu Xuemei paused, then shook her head with a bitter smile:


    "As Huanglong Immortal''s final disciple, how could I resort to robbing or forcing a sale? If all of Huanglong Mountain''s disciples were so rude, how could Huanglong Immortal City be as prosperous as it is today?"


    Lan Chang''an remained nomittal.


    If he were a foundationless Qi-Refining cultivator, things might have been different.


    Fu Xuemei might be proud and disdainful of such actions, but considering Alchemist Hua''s earlier posture, it''s hard to say.


    Lan Chang''an''s connections with sect Foundation Establishment cultivators and knowing Zhang Tieshan of the Law Enforcement Hall proved useful at this moment.


    Even Fu Xuemei had to y by the rules when dealing with him.


    "This humble woman has a standard Foundation Establishment Pill. Can it be exchanged for Fellow Daoist Lan''s superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill? I am willing to owe a significant favor and offer another gift afterward." Fu Xuemei pleaded.


    "What do you think, Fellow Daoist Lan?"


    Lan Chang''an exchanged a nce with Zhao Siyao.


    "Okay."


    After pondering for a long time, Lan Chang''an finally agreed.


    In fact, the moment Fu Xuemei bowed, he had made his decision. There was no other reason.


    Living in Huanglong Immortal City, one must not offend Fu Xuemei. This alone was sufficient.


    As for the favor and reward, those were secondary considerations.


    Lan Chang''an couldn''t agree too readily. He worried that she might grow suspicious, believing him to be crafty and harboring resentment.


    "Alchemist Hua... Fu Xuemei... Huanglong Immortal City!" Lan Chang''anmitted these words to memory.


    Indeed, Lan Chang''an''s initial expectation had been to receive a standard Foundation Establishment Pill, which would allow him to reach Foundation Establishment with a certainty of nine out of ten.


    However, if he obtained a superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill, he could guarantee a ny-nine percent certainty.


    Who wouldn''t want a higher chance for their Foundation Establishment?


    Though Fu Xuemei''s manner was courteous, her words soft and pleading, Lan Chang''an saw through her veneer. To him, her actions constituted an obstacle blocking his path, a grudge he would not soon forget over the course of his long life.


    ...


    "Thank you, Fellow Daoist Lan, for your cooperation."


    Fu Xuemei breathed a sigh of relief and exchanged a look with Alchemist Hua.


    She epted the superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill and handed a jade bottle to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an opened the jade bottle and took out the crystal-clear pill inside, which was indeed a standard Foundation Establishment Pill of good quality.


    "Miss Fu''s affection for her younger brother has truly moved me. The only difference between these pills is the sess rate; exchanging one for a personal favor does not ce me at any disadvantage."


    "I wish Miss Fu and your respected master a long and prosperous journey on the immortal path."


    The transaction wasplete, and the atmosphere remained amicable as Lan Chang''an continued to spout insincere yet ttering words.


    Fu Xuemei and Alchemist Hua nodded with smiles, not caring whether his words were genuine.


    Huanglong Immortal had over a hundred years of lifespan left.


    Fu Xuemei, at the very least, would be a high-level decision-maker in Huanglong Immortal City, possibly even its leader.


    Many Foundation Establishment cultivators would eagerly exchange for such a significant favor.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an, an "ancient man," had a low probability of Foundation Establishment. Even if he harbored resentment, it wouldn''t matter.


    It''s better to deceive old men than to mock the poor youth. After all, no one knows whether in the next thirty years the young will prosper.


    Lan Chang''an did not fit thetter category; he was essentially an elderly man with no prospects, someone who could easily be taken advantage of.


    ...


    After some formalities, Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao left Alchemist Hua''s residence.


    They returned to their cave mansion at the foot of Huanglong Mountain.


    Only then did Lan Chang''an''s face show a hint of gloom.


    "Hmph! Alchemist Hua, Fu Xuemei. Do you think I am unaware of your schemes?" Lan Chang''an sneered inwardly.


    He had insights from his past life as a Core Formation cultivator and several alchemy inheritances, he had ess to several alchemy inheritances, including a special method by which to produce higher quality pills.


    This technique sacrificed the quantity of pills to increase the probability of producing a higher grade one.


    Master Hua''s im that he had "outdone himself" might have been true, but it was also likely that he had employed such a method.


    In other words, what he had sacrificed was Lan Chang''an''s potential yield of three Foundation Establishment Pills in exchange for a single, superior-grade product.


    It wasn''t difficult to deduce that Alchemist Hua''s scheme had been motivated by his desire to curry favor with Fu Xuemei and producing a superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill would bolster his reputation, making it a win-win situation for him.


    Meanwhile, Fu Xuemei was fully aware of these implications. She had deliberately feigned ignorance, treating Lan Chang''an like an inexperienced Qi-Refining cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, don''t let this incident cast a shadow over your attempt to reach Foundation Establishment." Zhao Siyao soothed him gently, concern in her eyes.


    "No matter," Lan Chang''an replied. "Two standard Foundation Establishment Pills meet my expectations."


    The Evergreen Technique cultivated both body and spirit; thus, this incident failed to disturb Lan Chang''an''s peace.


    After Lan Chang''an finished making some arrangements, under Zhao Siyao''s worried gaze, he stepped into the secret room.


    He activated his Evergreen Technique, his heartke as tranquil as still water. Compared to the tribtions he had faced in his previous two lifetimes, the events of today, while humiliating, were hardly noteworthy. In the grand scheme of the cultivation world, they weremonce urrences.


    Lan Chang''an settled into a meditative state, adjusting his posture and breathing.


    Half a monthter, he found himself in a state of profound enlightenment. His spiritual flesh and spiritual energy had never been stronger.


    With a whoosh, Lan Chang''an wasted no more time and initiated the Foundation Establishment method. The Evergreen mana within him gathered speed, surging like a tide in his dantian region.


    "Ancient age Foundation Establishment, sess rate: ny-five percent!"


    His eyes shone bright, like twin suns, as an unshakable conviction welled up within his heart.


    This conviction stemmed from two lifetimes'' worth of experience, and the Evergreen Technique''s deep reserves amassed over long years of cultivation.


    ...

 Chapter 85: Foundation Establishment At Ancient Age

    To attempt Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an was essentially starting over.


    This is beneficial for foundation building but not the most critical factor.


    Having one foundation-building experience is not the same as having hundreds, and the cultivation method also differs.


    His real confidencees from the umtion of this lifetime.


    To ascend to Foundation Establishment, a cultivator must pass three trials.


    The first trial is the physical body.


    During foundation building, the influx of heaven and earth spiritual energy into the body imposes strict requirements on physical health and blood.


    If the body has been seriously injured, leaving hidden ailments, or if the foundation is damaged, it leaves holes in the body. The influx of spiritual energy would put a greater burden on the body, reducing the efficiency of energy conversion.


    Many cultivators fail in foundation building or even die from serious injuries because their bodies have ws, and their blood vitality is not pure.Additionally, the body''s aging and the decline of blood vitality in older cultivators also affect this trial''s sess.


    However, high-aged cultivators are not without chances.


    If they have maintained their body well, avoided conflicts in their youth, and have a stable foundation, there is still hope.


    In the cultivation world, a significant proportion of elderly cultivators advancing to the foundation stage practice wood-based techniques.


    ¡°In this lifetime, I have practiced Life-Nurturing Techniques, my body is wless, and my blood vitality is at its peak.¡±


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged on a stone bed, enduring the influx of violent heaven and earth spiritual energy.


    He seemed like an impregnable fortress, remaining unmoved under the waves¡¯ impact.


    This trial is very stable!


    ...


    The second trial is the mana.


    Lan Chang''an practiced the Evergreen Technique, absorbing the Qi of the ages, taking one step at a time.


    Restricted by the passage of time, he could not rely on pills to break through to a higher cultivation level, and thus rarely consumed them


    ¡°My mana is not strong, but it is extremely pure, almost without any impurities.¡±


    The mana of a Qi-Refining cultivator is gaseous, while in the Foundation Establishment stage, it is liquid.


    The higher the purity of mana, the easier it is to transform gas into liquid, achieving a substantial improvement.


    In the Qi-Refining stage, taking too many pills or using breakthrough pills can lead to impure mana.


    Mu Xiuyun¡¯s failure to build the foundation was mainly due to theck of a Foundation Establishment Pill, and she had taken breakthrough pills at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, which affected her potential.


    With the influx of heaven and earth spiritual energy, the pressure in Lan Chang''an¡¯s dantian suddenly increased, and the Evergreen mana began topress, with wisps of mana mist rising above the dantian.


    ¡°The mana trial is also very smooth.¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled calmly. Although the Evergreen Technique cultivates slowly, it adds some advantages for breaking through to higher realms!


    Considering the mental state boost of this technique, it should also help in advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm and beyond in the future.


    ...


    The third trial is the spiritual sense.


    This is Lan Chang''an¡¯s biggest advantage!


    The Nine Seal Stele had bestowed upon him a soul far stronger than any ordinary cultivator. At the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, his spiritual sense surpasses the early Foundation Establishment stage of ordinary cultivators.


    Spiritual sense helps in controlling mana, guiding the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, andpressing mana into liquid.


    This step is crucial.


    ¡°The three personal trials are nearly perfect.¡±


    The amount of mana mist in Lan Chang''an¡¯s dantian increased.


    To transform this mana mist into liquid, it requires the cultivator''s talent and external environment.


    ...


    Besides the three personal trials, there are external requirements.


    Firstly, a second-grade spiritual vein.


    In such an environment, the ¡°spiritual pressure¡± is stronger, which helps in foundation building.


    If a cultivator could break through anywhere without needing a spiritual vein site, then rogue cultivators would have it too easy, and no one would aspire to join major powers The "wealth,panionship, techniques, andnd" would be mere decorations.


    Major sects and cultivation forces control spiritual vein sites, which is a crucial step in monopolizing resources.


    Secondly, the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Actually, the Foundation Establishment Pill is not a necessity.


    If one has a heavenly spiritual root, they can easily advance without the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    With an earth spiritual root, there¡¯s a fifty percent chance of advancing, higher than the boost provided by a top-grade Foundation Establishment Pill.


    In theory, even with a poor spiritual root, there¡¯s a slim chance of building the foundation without the pill.


    The requirement of the Foundation Establishment Pill is a remedy for those with poorer aptitudes.


    Its invention is a blessing for ordinary cultivators.


    The core effect of the Foundation Establishment Pill is to enhance the absorption and conversion efficiency of the spiritual root towards heaven and earth spiritual energy, furtherpressing the mana.


    As for protecting the meridians and dantian, that¡¯s just an additional function.


    ¡°If I don¡¯t use the Foundation Establishment Pill, I might still advance, but I would face certain resistance and wouldn¡¯t be able to minimize the risks.¡±


    Lan Chang''an noticed that the mana mist above his dantian wanted to transform into liquid but was somewhat sluggish, mainly due to his limited aptitude.


    Reaching this step smoothly is already better than many with superior spiritual roots.


    Lan Chang''an took a standard Foundation Establishment Pill.


    A few breathster.


    The heaven and earth spiritual energy outside the cave residence suddenly elerated, rushing in to form a vortex of spiritual energy with a diameter of dozens of zhang.


    Above the dantian, the mist-like mana descended into crystal-like liquid mana.


    ...


    ¡°Someone is attempting to reach Foundation Establishment!¡±


    ¡°Looks like they''ve reached the critical stage.¡±


    The unusual movement of heaven and earth spiritual energy attracted the attention of some cultivators in the cave residences near the foot of Huanglong Mountain.


    The cave residences at the foot of Huanglong Mountain are for rent, and almost every year, some cultivators attempt foundation building or breakthrough here.


    Attempting foundation building here is not umon, but those who seed are still few.


    Huanglong Immortal City has arge third-grade spiritual vein and many second-grade spiritual vein branches.


    The same grade of spiritual veins also varies in size.


    The second-grade spiritual vein of Bamboo Leaf Mountain is only medium to small, maintaining the second-rank formation and cultivation on the mountain.


    Back then, when the Ning Family cultivator bought a Foundation Establishment Pill, the Huang family worried that attracting arge amount of heaven and earth spiritual energy would create weak points in the second-rank formation, causing disasters, and did not allow foundation building on the mountain.


    In Huanglong Mountain, this problem does not exist.


    Unless one is advancing to the Core Formation stage or nearly ten cultivators are building foundations simultaneously, it might cause an impact.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s rented cave residence is on the edge of the mountain foot, about twenty or thirty li from the heart of Huanglong Mountain.


    Outside the cave residence¡¯s chamber.


    A graceful female cultivator in a white dress sat outside the door for a whole month without leaving.


    Zhao Siyao stayed here to protect Lan Chang''an.


    First, to prevent outside cultivators from interfering with the foundation building.


    At Huanglong Mountain, this possibility is low but cannot be ignored.


    Secondly, if the breakthrough fails, there might be dangers that need immediate attention.


    ¡°Senior Zhao, please have some tea.¡±


    Guan Qiaozhi kept pacing outside the chamber, serving tea and water.


    Compared to Zhao Siyao¡¯s calmness, her mood was more restless.


    Guan Qiaozhi kept observing Zhao Siyao¡¯s expression.


    A month ago, Zhao Siyao¡¯s expression was solemn, with a worried look.


    Ten days ago, Zhao Siyao clenched her jade hand lightly, observing the spiritual energy situation above the cave residence in silence.


    Until recently, Zhao Siyao¡¯s brows rxed, revealing a look of surprise.


    ¡°Senior Zhao, how is Senior Brothern¡¯s foundation building?¡± Guan Qiaozhi asked with concern.


    ¡°He has passed the first few checkpoints with ease. He only needs to take onest step to seed.¡± Zhao Siyao was in a great mood.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s foundation building has smoothly passed several important trials.


    ¡°Almost seeded?¡±


    Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s beautiful eyes widened, with three parts joy and seven parts surprise.


    In her imagination, Lan Chang''an¡¯s attempt to build the foundation at seventy seemed hopeless.


    Such an elderly person, even with the support of the Foundation Establishment Pill, would inevitably suffer from vitality loss, shaking the foundation, and affecting longevity.


    Once failed, he probably wouldn¡¯t live many years.


    Although she had no ill intentions, this was the logical and normal script.


    ...


    After several more days.


    The vortex of heaven and earth spiritual energy above the cave residence began to emit a faint colorful glow and then gradually dissipated.


    Inside the chamber, a surge of Foundation Establishment Realm pressure emerged.


    That vigorous mana fluctuation exuded a breath of life like ancient trees in spring, bringing a wonderful fragrance.


    ¡°After fifty-two years of hard work, building the foundation at seventy is not toote.¡± A loud, cheerfulugh came from the chamber.


    Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s lovely face flushed, her legs wobbling.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, you don¡¯t need to stay outside to protect me. Let¡¯s talk after Ie out.¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s voice came out.


    After advancing to the Foundation Establishment stage, he consolidated his realm while quickly restraining his aura.


    The Evergreen Technique¡¯s aura-concealing ability can hide him from cultivators nearly one great realm above him.


    A Fake-Dan definitely wouldn''t notice anything.


    With twoyers of second-rank formation protection, as long as he restrained his spiritual sense and didn¡¯t interact closely with a Core Formation Realm Immortal or was deliberately probed, it¡¯s not easy to notice any abnormality.


    ¡°Congrattions to Fellow Daoist Lan for sessfully building his foundation!" Zhao Siyao''s eyes, clear and bright like stars, shone with unprecedented cheerfulness, dispelling the gloom that had hung over them for the past two years.


    The corners of her eyes were moist, her heart was excited and joyful.


    This important friend who had apanied her in her cultivation for fifty years had finally crossed the most difficult hurdle.


    Going forward, each other would still be able to support each other on the path of the Dao and continue for more than a hundred long years.


    "Congrattions, Senior Brother Lan." Guan Qiaozhi sobbed, her tears falling to the ground. They were tears of joy.


    As Lan Chang''an''s concubine, this reaction was not unexpected; Zhao Siyao paid her no mind.


    "In Foundation Establishment, one can live over two hundred years?" At this thought, Guan Qiaozhi''s tears flowed even more copiously.


    "Foundation Establishment seeded?"


    The cultivators living in immortal caves near the foot of Mount Huang were filled with envy or despondency.


    Near the foot of Mount Huang, in Huanglong Square, lived Alchemist Hua, the renowned alchemist.


    "Seventy years old and reached Foundation Establishment? How is that possible?" Master Hua, that thin man, stared at the faint cloud of auspiciousness above Lan Chang''an''s cave as if he had seen a ghost. He knew Lan Chang''an had chosen to cultivate there, but unexpectedly, he never observed the "old geezer" fail dismally and harm his vital energy.


    At the same time, within another immortal''s cave at the foot of Mount Huang, Fu Xuemei gazed down at the dispersing spiritual energy and cloud of auspiciousness.


    "Ancient age Foundation Establishment??" Her face, quiet and beautiful, was filled with disbelief. "Such an age... It seems to have broken Liang Kingdom''s thousand-year-old record for the cultivation world."


    T/N; Sorry for the dy, forgot to schedule the chapter + came homete

 Chapter 86: Low Key Famous

    Inside the Secret Room.


    A small pool of liquid mana had formed in Lan Chang''an''s dantian region, glowing emerald green and pulsating with a vigorous, evesting vitality, within ity a sediment of the vicissitudes of time.


    "Having reached the Foundation Establishment Realm, my lifespan has increased dramatically, and with the aid of the Life Extension Pills, I could potentially live for over four hundred years."


    A weight was lifted from Lan Chang''an''s mind. Having stepped into Foundation Establishment, he had truly made his footing in the cultivation world, possessing the ability to protect himself and enjoy a more extended lifespan.


    Theoretically, an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator''s lifespan was two hundred and forty years, but in actuality, two hundred years was about the limit they could expect to achieve.


    With the Evergreen Technique, one''s longevity could be extended by half, bringing a Foundation Establishment cultivator''s base longevity to three hundred and sixty years. With three first-rank Life Extension Pills, his lifespan reached three hundred and eighty years.


    This already exceeded the lifespan of a Fake-Dan cultivator.


    Fake-Dan immortals did notplete the full Core Formation process, so their longevity was typically a hundred years beyond that of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The effect of a first-rank Life Extension Pill was not yet fully exhausted by Lan Chang''an.A second-rank Life Extension Pill typically extends life by over ten years, with premium ones extending by around fifteen years.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that if he were to consume both first- and second-rank Life Extension Pills to their limits, his maximum lifespan in the Foundation Establishment Realm could reach four or even five hundred years.


    Living that long would qualify him to be called an ancestor.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an operated the Evergreen Technique, sessfully concealing his aura, mainly to hide his spiritual sense.


    After advancing to the Foundation Establishment, the fourthyer of the body refinement manual became unremarkable.


    As long as he didn¡¯t extend his spiritual sense outward and kept it tightly guarded within his Niwan Pce, it was easier to conceal than cultivation level.[1]


    "I have just entered the Foundation Establishment stage, considered the first level of Foundation Establishment, but my spiritual sense is approachingte Foundation Establishment, capable of covering a radius of sixty to seventy zhang." Lan Chang''an knew this was the benefit brought by the Nine Seal Stele.


    Once a cultivator reached Foundation Establishment, it was rare to refer to themselves as being in first or second level, etc.


    Foundation Establishment early, mid, andte stages were the normal terms.


    The levels within these minor realms, while existent, only represented a difference of two to three-tenths in mana.


    It was just a difference in quantity, with mana strength being simr, having little impact onbat power.


    Only between minor realms, such as early and mid, was there a difference of about twice in mana! Both quality and quantity differed, greatly affectingbat power.


    The levels only had significance for personal measurement, knowing what stage of the minor realm they were in.


    For instance, Lan Chang''an was currently in the early stage of Foundation Establishment. Although he was at the first level, his mana was not that far behind Zhao Siyao''s.


    Disregarding external factors such as skill and resources, the two were evenly matched.


    In other words, Zhao Siyao had advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage twenty-six or twenty-seven years earlier, but was now nearly caught up by Lan Chang''an.


    Unless she advanced to the mid Foundation Establishment stage, the gap wouldn''t truly widen.


    With Zhao Siyao''s qualifications, without significant opportunities, advancing through the Foundation Establishment stage wouldn''t be that smooth.


    ...


    In the privacy of his room, Lan Chang''an spent a month in seclusion to consolidate his foundation.


    During this period, he noticed the anomaly with the Profound Water Turtle.


    When Lan Chang''an was breaking through to the Foundation Establishment stage, the Profound Water Turtle was also absorbing aura, growing at an elerated rate.


    After advancing to the Foundation Establishment stage, he tested it out.


    As usual, he let the Profound Water Turtle absorb aura while he cultivated, feeding it Evergreen mana daily.


    "Its growth rate is more than twice that of a normal Profound Water Turtle!" Lan Chang''an was surprised, yet found it reasonable.


    After advancing to the Foundation Establishment Realm, the quality of his Evergreen mana had increased several-fold, bringing about such an effect, which was logical.


    "This growth rate..."


    Lan Chang''an pondered. For a normal spirit creature, it was still considered exceptionally slow. The Profound Water Turtle''s only unusual trait was its cultivation growth; its physical size remained within normal limits.


    As long as Lan Chang''an didn''t draw undue attention to it, there would be few problems.


    A number of reasons could exin the Profound Water Turtle''s abnormal growth:


    For instance, it might have eaten some heavenly materials and earthly treasures, or there might be a secret form for cultivation, or some secret technique might have spurred its growth, sacrificing part of its potential and having side effects.


    The world of cultivation was full of strange things. As long as it didn''t be a Core Formation beast in a few decades or centuries, it wouldn''t be a huge temptation.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator and a second-rank talisman master, Lan Chang''an, with a second-rank demonic beast, could protect such a small secret without any issue.


    Secrets and risks were determined by strength.


    Which loose cultivator who had reached the Foundation Establishment Realm didn''t have a bit of opportunity or secret?


    ...


    Upon reaching Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an faced a new problem: he had two leftover Foundation Establishment Pills.


    He actually had two Foundation Establishment Pills left?


    One standard, one inferior.


    The inferior one was obtained from the Evil-faced Flying Eagle, kept as a backup from the beginning.


    Originally, there were two standard ones, one used for breaking through, and one surplus.


    "Two extra Foundation Establishment Pills." Lan Chang''an contemted for a long while, recalling the decades of cultivation in this life, before making his decision.


    ...


    After a month in seclusion, Lan Chang''an finally came out.


    The first thing he did was meet Zhao Siyao.


    During the Foundation Establishment period, she had guarded the door for a whole month without ever attempting to steal his Foundation Establishment Pills, her sincerity on full disy.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, congrattions. After decades of hard work, you have finally established your foundation. You are undoubtedly a shining example of Liang''ste bloomers in the cultivation world." Zhao Siyao''s eyes were clear, her brows slightly raised, restoring her usual elegance and refined demeanor.


    "I simply lead a healthy lifestyle, and luck has smiled upon me." Lan Chang''an said modestly.


    "Senior Brother Lan, congrattions on establishing your foundation." Guan Qiaozhi greeted him with a smile, her eyes gleaming with joy.


    Though she wore a radiant grin, the depths of her demeanor did not look like she was particrly happy.


    Lan Chang''an did not pay attention to this detail.


    This woman was entrusted by Master Guan, and she diligently carried out her duties withoutint.


    If she remained diligent and loyal, cultivating to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, Lan Chang''an considered rewarding her with the inferior Foundation Establishment Pill.


    If she wanted to leave, even remarry, he would not object.


    Even pce maids in the imperial pce, when they got older, had the chance to be freed and married off.


    Lan Chang''an''s attitude toward such matters was ratherx. He was a healthy man, but he had no interest in building a harem.


    No matter how beautiful a woman, in the long years, there would be a day when beauty faded and bones withered.


    This was why he viewed it lightly, never actively entangling with any female cultivator emotionally.


    If a woman met his aesthetic standards and willingly pursued him without expectation of amitment, he would entertain the affection, but he would not initiate such an affair himself.


    As for going to brothels?


    Lan Chang''an had a slight cleanliness obsession and hadn''t been to one in his previous two lives.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao sat in the cave mansion.


    Now that there was no gap in cultivation, there was no more barrier between their friendship.


    The two had much inmon.


    Zhao Siyao was dedicated to the Dao, having long let go of worldly emotions, she naturally viewed such matters with indifference. Even if she did encounter someone she liked, she would never take the initiative to act.


    "So many invitations?" Lan Chang''an took arge stack of invitations handed by Guan Qiaozhi.


    These invitations were mostly from Foundation Establishment cultivators, representing the immortal cultivation forces behind them.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, don''t be surprised. You established your foundation in your ancient age, breaking a millennium record in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, setting an of a man risingte in life." Zhao Siyao''s lips pressed slightly, holding backughter.


    "So, I am now famous in Huanglong Immortal City?"


    After understanding the situation, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but think deeply.


    During his period of seclusion, the inspiring news of the elderly man sessfully achieving Foundation Establishment at ancient age became a topic of interest in Huanglong Immortal City.


    After all, Lan Chang''an had been in Huanglong Immortal City for more than twenty years. His personal background was no secret.


    Establishing a foundation at one''s ancient age was indeed rare.


    But if one''s gaze was cast beyond Great Qing to therger cultivation world, it wasn''t such an umon urrence.


    The Liang Kingdom was only a small part of the Great Qing, a medium-sized cultivation country.


    "Your reputation extends far beyond Huanglong Immortal City. It won''t be long before cultivators across Liang, including those who have reached Core Formation, know of your existence."


    "Your deeds will, after all, be recorded in the annals of Liang Kingdom''s cultivation history." At this point, Zhao Siyao couldn''t help but feel a bit envious.


    Being recorded in history was something an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator couldn''t achieve. Even those weaker Core Formation cultivators could be forgotten by the long history of the cultivation world.


    In today''s Huanglong Immortal City, who didn''t know the inspiring story of the "Talisman Master Turtle" who established his foundation at his ancient age?


    This attracted the attention of various cultivation forces as well.


    As a Foundation Establishment loose cultivator with a clean background and a second-rank talisman master, every major force sought to recruit him as their prized asset.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an sighed. He didn''t expect that his low-key self would be famous one day.


    Fortunately, establishing a foundation at ancient age was not particrly newsworthy, as it was generally viewed as an inspiring underdog story.


    An elderly Foundation Establishment cultivator represented limited potential, with a lower chance of advancing to Core Formation in the future.


    Even if Core Formation Immortals knew about him, they would merely think that he had a strong foundation, practiced Life-Nourishing Techniques, and was blessed with some good fortune.


    In other words, it was a rtively subdued form of fame.


    By contrast, a young cultivator with exceptional potential might garner far more attention. For example, if their qualifications were merely average and they reached Foundation Establishment in their twenties, they would still draw the attention of the cultivation world''s elite, who would suspect that such a person possessed great destiny.


    As a cultivator who reached Foundation Establishment at their ancient age, what could Lan Chang''an possibly have to offer? It wasn''t as if anyone coveted his kidneys.


    In a certain sense, this reputation made him quite safe. His reputation as an inspiring underdog meant that anyone targeting him would have to consider the consequences carefully; moreover, harming an elderly cultivator who had reached Foundation Establishment would be widely condemned.


    "Speaking of which, Fu Xuemei sent over a gift in thanks for the Foundation Establishment Pills. You were in seclusion at the time, so I epted on your behalf." Zhao Siyao produced a small, exquisite gift box.


    On the day they exchanged Foundation Establishment Pills, Fu Xuemei had mentioned offering additional thanks beyond the promised favor.


    Footnotes:


    [1]The "Niwan Pce" (ÄàÍ蹬) is a term from taoism internal alchemy, referring to a crucial area within the mind or spirit, often associated with spiritual or mental faculties. It is considered a central point for focusing and controlling one''s spiritual energy and spiritual sense in cultivation practices.

 Chapter 87: Future Plans

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Gift? This Miss Fu is indeed a person of integrity."


    Lan Chang''an epted the exquisite gift box, maintaining a calm demeanor.


    The cave mansion was at the foot of Huanglong Mountain, to prevent prying spiritual senses from detecting their activities, they mustn''t reveal any dissatisfaction, no matter how aggrieved they felt.


    Though he didn''t harbor an overwhelming grudge, Lan Chang''an still remembered the humiliation of having his cultivation path obstructed.


    "The glory of Huanglong Immortal City willst only a century or two. The number one loose cultivator in the Liang Kingdom, the famous Huanglong Immortal, has less than a hundred years left to live. Rtive to the long river of history, it is as fleeting as a blooming flower." Having lived through two lifetimes, Lan Chang''an had seen too many rises and falls.


    Even someone as strong as Huanglong Immortal would eventually grow old.


    Fu Xuemei was emotional and might not be able to bear the banner, especially if she continued to disregard consequences in her attempts to support her brother.


    Today''s cause will inevitably have its effect in the future."Fu Xuemei, I hope your cultivation path will continue for many years toe, and you won''t perish midway."


    "Alchemist Hua, refine a few more Life Extension Pills for yourself."


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t worried aboutcking the strength for revenge in the future but feared that his enemies wouldn''t live until that day.


    If such a day dide, however, he wouldn''t shy away from unleashing violence upon the elderly and the young.


    Every era''s strong ones mostly didn''t have long periods of prominence; there would always be a low point in life or a time when the hero grew old.


    He practiced the Evergreen Technique, maintaining a vigorous state even in the future. If old dead bones were hard to chew, in that case, bullying their descendants ought to be a piece of cake.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an''s thoughts were racing as he opened Fu Xuemei''s exquisite gift box.


    Inside was a finely crafted talisman brush with a dark blue barrel and a moderately tough tip.


    "A mid-grade second-rank talisman brush." Lan Chang''an''s eyes brightened.


    The talisman brush he was currently using was only low-grade second-rank, unable to fully utilize his real strength.


    Fu Xuemei''s promised gift was indeed sincere.


    A mid-grade second-rank talisman brush plus a standard Foundation Establishment Pill; the price difference in trading a superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill wasn''t much.


    A superior-grade Foundation Establishment Pill only increased the probability by five percentpared to an ordinary one, but due to its scarcity, its value increased by more than half.


    If an immortal in the Core Formation Realm forcibly bought it for a descendant, the price might even double.


    Fu Xuemei also promised a favor.


    In terms of value alone, Lan Chang''an didn''t lose anything.


    Considering his sessful Foundation Establishment, he actually made a profit.


    Lan Chang''an put away the talisman brush, feeling much better.


    In light of the sincerity of this talisman brush, Lan Chang''an resolved to go easy on Fu Xuemei in the future.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I won''t bother you further. I''ll return to the Jin Yun Valley base." After chatting for a while, Zhao Siyao rose to bid farewell.


    "For this Lan to get the Foundation Establishment Pill and break through sessfully; Fellow Daoist Zhao deserves much credit."


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an gave Zhao Siyao a few second-rank talismans.


    Indeed, he could have killed the low-grade second-rank White Jade Python in the ck Fog Mountain Range alone.


    But Zhao Siyao was familiar with the ck Fog Mountain Range environment, and having an actual Foundation Establishment cultivator helped bear a lot of risks.


    Moreover, Zhao Siyao provided cover during the pill refinement process.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan for this token of appreciation, Siyao mustn''t be polite." Zhao Siyao smiled and epted the talismans frankly.


    She was nowpletely certain that Lan Chang''an was a second-rank talisman master.


    Lan Chang''an had always shown a decent talent in talisman-making. Now, having reached Foundation Establishment in his seventies, it was unsurprising that he had attained the status of a second-rank talisman master.


    ...


    In the next two months.


    There were many visitors, most of whom were Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Some represented their factions, extending olive branches with sincere conditions.


    Some were from city-based immortal cultivation families inviting Lan Chang''an to be an elder; others fromrge shops wanted him as a Foundation Establishment talisman master.


    Logically, Lan Chang''an, a "white-headed man" achieving Foundation Establishment, had no potential and shouldn''t be so popr.


    There were three main reasons.


    First, besides being a Foundation Establishment cultivator, Lan Chang''an was also a skilled talisman master.


    Second, there were rumors that Fu Xuemei owed Lan Chang''an a favor.


    Third, Lan Chang''an had a clear background and good character, and his achievement in Foundation Establishment in his seventies gave him a certain amount of fame.


    Lan Chang''an had been quietly cultivating in Huanglong Immortal City for many years, never causing trouble, showing respect to his immortal guide, and even taking in his guide''s female disciple.


    Cultivators recruiting talents valued character.


    Cultivators with poor character, constantly making enemies everywhere, were not truly liked by any faction.


    Lan Chang''an''s good character, non-confrontational nature, and skills naturally made him a popr recruit.


    Some cultivators visited purely to see the "mascot."


    Lan Chang''an''s ancient age foundation establishement broke a thousand-year-old record, making him akin to a living fossil. These visitors merely wished to catch a glimpse of this wonder.


    Lan Chang''an was torn betweenughter and tears¡ªbut thankfully, none of the visiting cultivators harbored any ill intent, whether they sought to recruit or merely came to make friends.


    Those who visited all brought congrattory gifts, so even though Lan Chang''an was a rare panda for a while, he didn''t miss out on the entrance fee.


    ...


    Fortunately, the poprity of achieving Foundation Establishment in their ancient age gradually faded in Huanglong Immortal City.


    After this wave of enthusiasm passed, no one would pay attention to Lan Chang''an anymore.


    In the cultivation world, strange and interesting events were numerous, with all kinds of news every month.


    No matter how shocking the news, it couldn''t stay in the headlines forever.


    Achieving Foundation Establishment in ancient age was merely inspiring, not defying the heavens.


    Although Lan Chang''an had broken a thousand-year-old record in Liang''s cultivation world, when ced in the annals of the entire Great Qing, let alone the vast cultivation world, his aplishment barely caused a ripple.


    ...


    "Upon achieving Foundation Establishment, the illumination speed of the second life in the Nine Seal Stele has indeed significantly increased."


    One day, Lan Chang''an entered the Nine Seal Stele in his consciousness.


    The handsome man of the first life was fully illuminated.


    The white-bearded old man of the second life had arge portion of his hair illuminated.


    He estimated that in about ten years, he could fully illuminate the second life of the peak Core Formation Realm.


    During this time, Lan Chang''an also considered his future ns for the Foundation Establishment stage.


    He had little interest in the recruitment offers from various factions.


    Firstly, he didn''t wish to be constrained by their rules and regtions.


    Secondly, he harbored secrets, and long-term contact with high-level cultivators might expose them.


    "Alchemist Hua''s model is good, being an independent loose cultivator without constraints whileworking with important figures of major factions." Lan Chang''an thought.


    Alchemist Hua indeed schemed against him, but his achievements today were not just due to his superb alchemy skills but also his shrewd methods.


    Like Alchemist Hua, Lan Chang''an had excellent skills.


    Alchemist Hua had limited longevity, being over a hundred years old.


    Lan Chang''an had a long lifespan and plenty of free time.


    There was no need to fight for a moment''s gain or loss, the older you get, the stronger your magical power will be.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an also considered the more distant goal of forming a core.


    He was in the habit of nning ahead, which was why he hade to the Huanglong Immortal City during the Qi-Refining stage.


    Without so many years of preparation, it would have been nigh impossible to gather all the ingredients for the Foundation Establishment Pill on his own.


    Fake-Dan, True-Dan, Golden-Dan.


    These were the three qualities of a core.


    A Fake-Dan, also known as an inferior dan, was an iplete core formation cultivator.


    Such cultivators had only forty percent of the total mana of a True-Dan and a lifespan extension of one hundred years. Furthermore, their cultivation could never progress beyond the early stage of the Core Formation Realm.


    In other words, they could never hope to reach the Nascent Soul Realm.


    A True-Dan was the normal or better-quality core, and such cultivators theoretically had the opportunity to reach the Nascent Soul Realm. However, without extraordinary opportunities, their chances were slim.


    A Golden-Dan was an excellent-quality core, and those who attained it were often referred to as "seeds" for the Nascent Soul Realm, with a significantly higher chance of reaching it.


    "With my qualifications in this life, even if I seed in Foundation Establishment, ording tomon sense, the ultimate limit would be a Fake-Dan Immortal." Lan Chang''an was clear about this.


    This estimation did not take into ount any potential boost from the Evergreen Technique.


    Generally speaking, anything below a superior-grade spiritual root would make achieving an Inferior-Dan difficult, and aiming for a True-Dan without extraordinary opportunities was nigh impossible.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an did not aspire to a Golden-Dan; Achieving a True-Dan with a high enough quality to preserve his chances at reaching the Nascent Soul Realm was in line with his expectations.


    "It''s still too early to consider my core formation goals. I''ll think about that when I reach thete stage of Foundation Establishment."


    Lan Chang''an was just making preliminary ns, organizing his future cultivation path.


    ...


    Entering the Foundation Establishment stage granted a long lifespan.


    Even with superior spiritual roots, ignoring minor realm bottlenecks, it would take at least several decades to progress from early tote Foundation Establishment.


    Adding the bottlenecks, over a hundred years was normal, and sess wasn''t guaranteed.


    Most Foundation Establishment cultivators spent their lives stuck in the middle stage, unable to progress to thete stage.


    Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen Technique had abundant magical power, vitality, and potential; the minor bottlenecks were rtively easier.


    If this characteristic was retained, the steady progression of the Evergreen Technique would no longer be a disadvantage in the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    "I cultivate a Life-Nourishing Technique, so I may need a hundred years in Foundation Establishment. I must now focus on strengthening my defensive means." Lan Chang''an had already roughly charted out his course of action.


    First, gather materials and create superior second-rank talismans as soon as possible.


    Second, purchase more second-rank spirit sand stone to cultivate the body refinement manual until reaching the fifthyer, corresponding to mid-Foundation Establishment.


    Third, embark on his Treasure Talisman Project, thereby correcting the regret of his past life.


    In the Foundation Establishment stage, top superior magical weapons were considered standard defensive means. Cultivators in mid- tote-stage Foundation Establishment typically possessed such items.


    What is stronger than a top superior-grade magic weapon is a talismanic treasure.


    A talismanic treasure contained a portion of a magic treasure''s power sealed within a talisman. Generally speaking, they possessed around twenty percent of the original magic treasure''s might, enough to utterly dominate ordinary cultivators in the Foundation Establishment stage.


    However, talismanic treasures were extremely rare and required a Core Formation cultivator to pay a significant price to create.


    The "treasure talismans" Lan Chang''an nned to prepare would follow the opposite approach.


    The idea was that a talisman made of excellent materials would be nurtured as if it were a magic treasure, and the longer it was nurtured, the more terrifying its power would be!

 Chapter 88: Switching Identities

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had studied the lost art of crafting treasure talismans. Unfortunately, the inheritance he received was too fragmented to allow him to create anything beyond a defective prototype.


    Unfortunately, the inheritance he received was too iplete, resulting in only a defective product and not a true sess.


    With his energy tied up in managing the cultivation family, cultivating, and achieving the status of third-rank talisman master, he didn''t have the time to devote to this endeavor.


    Three difficulties stood in the way of sessfully nurturing a treasure talisman.


    First, the treasure talisman required an exceptional base material, ideally a piece of spirit wood imbued with spirituality.


    Second, it needed a long period of nurturing, sustained over many years.


    Third, it required a specific quality of magical power and the methods used to nurture it.


    "In my previous life, I didn¡¯tck excellent materials, but I didn''t truly seed mainly because of the second and third points."Lan Chang''an concluded.


    In his previous life, he managed a family of cultivators, reached the peak of the Core Formation Realm, and became a third-rank talisman master with very limited energy to spare for anything else.


    The fire-based cultivation technique he practiced was also unsuitable for nurturing.


    ording to the iplete inheritance, wood-based techniques are the most suitable for nurturing.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an happens to have long years of lifespan and plenty of free time.


    The Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique was suitable for nurturing treasure talismans.


    Many wood-based techniques were beneficial to spirit nt growth, fostering their healthy development. The Evergreen Technique was no exception, and its effects were even more pronounced.


    Lan Chang''an never considered bing a spiritual nt cultivator so he''d never developed that aspect of his abilities.


    For example, with the Profound Water Turtle, its growth rate has greatly elerated under the nurturing of the Evergreen Technique.


    "If I want to nurture a treasure talisman, the basic material for the talisman must be at least second-rank superior spiritual wood bark, and third-rank spiritual wood bark would be even better." Lan Chang''an''s goal was clear.


    The treasure talisman has extremely high requirements for the talisman material, which was beyond the scope of the Qi-Refining stage.


    Now that he had advanced to the Foundation Establishment Realm, it still wasn''t easy to obtain.


    As a talisman''s raw material, spiritual wood bark was particrlypatible with the wood elemental Evergreen Technique.


    The process of nurturing the treasure talisman is like cultivating a spiritual nt.


    If the talisman material is good, nurturing it for decades or centuries can create a treasure talisman whose power is hard to estimate when unleashed.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an moved out of the cave mansion at the foot of Huanglong Mountain in advance.


    He didn¡¯t want to stay under the eyes of the Immortals.


    The Fake-Dan Immortals on the mountain were slightly interested in him as a mascot but didn¡¯t want to lower themselves to visit him.


    As for Huanglong Immortal, he was elusive, with a wide circle of friends, and was rarely at the Huanglong Mountain.


    "After the Foundation Establishment stage, daily cultivation requires a second-rank spiritual vein. In the future, I need to find a quiet and stable Dao field." Lan Chang''an secretly nned.


    Pills and spiritual stones can indeed make up for theck of spiritual veins to a certain extent. But taking too many pills can lead to impure mana and unstable foundations.


    Relying solely on pills for unlimited improvement in cultivation is unrealistic!


    Spiritual stones are suitable for supplementing mana, but long-term dependence on them for cultivation reduces a cultivator''s sensitivity to the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.


    Speaking broadly, it lowers one¡¯spatibility with the world, hindering theprehension of the Dao.


    ...


    On the way back.


    Lan Chang''an visited a post station to send a letter to Feiyue Lake.


    "Greetings, Senior." The cultivator at the post station respectfully saluted upon seeing a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    This letter was sent to Li Erqing.


    Lan Chang''an nned to visit the Mu Family a yearter.


    He didn¡¯t mention the specific reason for visiting the Mu Family in the letter to avoid any leakage of information.


    Lan Chang''an nned to sell the standard Foundation Establishment Pill in his possession to the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    To draw superior-grade talismans and nurture treasure talismans, a lot of spiritual stones are required.


    Keeping the Foundation Establishment Pills was useless, as Lan Chang''an had no intention of having descendants, so naturally, he wanted to cash them in.


    Since he was selling the Foundation Establishment Pill, he might as well do a favor and sell them to the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    After all, the Mu Family had taken him in when he was only at the firstyer of Qi-Refining, which was a kindness.


    In the Mu Family, Lan Chang''an had freeloaded and spent two to three decades, passing the most vulnerable stage of the Qi-Refining period, a pleasant time.


    Even if Lan Chang''an sold the Foundation Establishment Pill at market price, the Mu Family would be grateful.


    Competing in auctions for Foundation Establishment Pills is highlypetitive and attracts attention.


    Without sufficient strength, one could easily be targeted by hidden rogue cultivators, posing significant risks.


    Rival forces might also openly or secretly interfere.


    The cost of purchasing Foundation Establishment Pills is one thing.


    Whether one can protect the pills and sessfully advance amidst various risks is another challenge.


    Mu Renlong''s Foundation Establishment back then was either achieved by bearing the risks and secretly obtaining it from the ck market or by acquiring key materials and privately coborating to refine pills.


    That secret Foundation Establishment cost the Mu Family greatly, depleting their resources for years.


    ...


    On the same day, upon returning to Water Moon Residence.


    The neighborhood of Jinxiu Lane was in an uproar.


    "Congrattions to Senior Lan on achieving Foundation Establishment!"


    The familiar neighbors and acquaintances from the past all came to congratte him with changed attitudes.


    "Senior Lan, you''re finally back. I¡¯ve been waiting for a long time." Du Wei, smiling broadly, came with his wife to pay a visit with a gift box in hand.


    "Brother Du, there''s no need to be so polite." Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t neglect Du Wei and invited him in.


    In the past, when he had requests for Du Wei, it was usually Lan Chang''an who visited Du Wei''s residence.


    This time, Du Wei came as a junior, formally visiting with his wife and bringing a generous gift.


    With his advancement to the Foundation Establishment Realm, Lan Chang''an had crossed social sses, switching identities.


    In the vast Huanglong Immortal City, Lan Chang''an was now a notable figure.


    If he wished, he could even establish a cultivation family.


    "Senior Lan, my master asked me to convey his apologies for the unexpected visit of Miss Fu that day."


    "He sent me to apologize on his behalf, hoping for your understanding." Du Wei was very humble, bowing deeply.


    Unexpected?


    Lan Chang''an found it amusing: Alchemist Hua still thinks he can deceive me, treating me like a wandering cultivator with no experience?


    If Alchemist Hua was sincerely apologizing, he wouldn¡¯t have sent his disciple.


    Alchemist Hua prided himself on his status, and even with Lan Chang''an¡¯s advancement to the Foundation Establishment Realm, he didn¡¯t take him seriously.


    An Alchemist of the same rank holds a slightly higher status than a Talisman Master.


    Alchemist Hua was in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage and a superior-grade second-rank alchemist.


    Lan Chang''an, a newly advanced Foundation Establishment cultivator with low potential, was at most a low-grade second-rank talisman master, with a significant status gap between them.


    ...


    Just after sending off Du Wei, another young married couple arrived.


    "Congrattions to Uncle Lan on achieving Foundation Establishment, bing a model for wandering cultivators in the Liang Kingdom."


    Lin Lu and his wife, Li Qiuyue, came with a congrattory gift.


    "No need to be so formal." Lan Chang''an spoke kindly, chatting amiably with the young couple for a while.


    Lin Lu, the son of an old acquaintance, had long since reformed and lived a steady life in Huanglong Immortal City, cultivating diligently.


    He asionally came to pay respects and show filial piety.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s attitude towards him gradually changed.


    Although Lin Yi had died in the middle of the road, his father''s good friends¡ªZhang Tieshan, Zhao Siyao, Lan Chang''an, and Li Erqing¡ªall achieved Foundation Establishment.


    Perhaps, this was the greatest resource Lin Yi left for his son.


    Lan Chang''an heard that Lin Lu''s wife, Li Qiuyue, was quite domineering at home. Yet upon meeting her, he found her gentle and poised, showing utmost respect toward him.


    When Lan Chang''an asked her questions, she appeared rather nervous.


    Lin Lu felt a bit proud, thinking his wife only dared to act tough at home.


    After Lan Chang''an¡¯s fame from achieving Foundation Establishment, his family status improved, and his wife became more obedient.


    Moreover, the Foundation Establishment ancestor of Li Qiuyue¡¯s family was severely injured hunting monsters in the ck Fog Mountain Range a few years ago and wouldn¡¯t live much longer.


    ...


    After a while, the Lin-Lu couple excused themselves, and Lan Chang''an saw them off without leaving his seat.


    Unconsciously, he had grown from a weak Qi-Refining cultivator into a dependable pir revered by the younger generation.


    As Lin Lu and his wife reached the entrance of the courtyard.


    A young girl in a yellow dress approached.


    Lin Lu was slightly dazed, unable to hide his amazement.


    The girl in the yellow dress had a face like beautiful jade, bright eyes, and slightly pouted cheeks, looking pure and charming.


    Her looks and temperament surpassed the innocent-looking female cultivator from Jin Yun Valley who had deceived him back then.


    The girl in the yellow dress nced lightly.


    Lin Lu and his wife felt a powerful pressure, their legs feeling like they were filled with lead.


    Foundation Establishment Realm!


    Panicked, Lin Lu feared the girl would reprimand them for their earlier rudeness.


    "Senior..."


    "Is this the residence of Lan Chang''an?" Zhou Qingxuan interrupted him.


    "Yes, Senior, this is the residence of my Uncle Lan."


    Lin Lu responded respectfully, avoiding eye contact.


    "Mm." Zhou Qingxuan nodded, then lightly knocked on the gate with a depressed air, emanating the spiritual energy fluctuations of Foundation Establishment.


    She was in a bad mood.


    Two or three months ago, Zhou Qingxuan had been greatly surprised to hear that Lan Chang''an had reached Foundation Establishment at seventy, an age considered ancient in the cultivation world.


    The Turtle Talisman Master she had once mocked had actually achieved Foundation Establishment at seventy, bing an inspiring sess story.


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t just a Foundation Establishment cultivator; he was also a second-rank talisman master.


    It had only been a few years, yet his status had risen to match her own.


    What depressed Zhou Qingxuan was that, due to the urging of her family, she would have to pay Lan Chang''an a personal visit in order to recruit him. Back when she had first met him, it had been Lan Chang''an who sought an audience with her, and now the roles were reversed.


    "Senior Zhou, pleasee in." Guan Qiaozhi said as she opened the courtyard gate to wee Zhou Qingxuan inside.


    In the courtyard stood a small pond, and beside it, a turtle the size of a frying panzily blew bubbles. "The Profound Water Turtle? He seeded in raising it?"


    Zhou Qingxuan''s eyes brightened; her attention was immediately drawn to the creature. A single nce was all it took for her to discern that this Profound Water Turtle was not sickly but rather quite healthy.


    "Hm? Its growth seems abnormal; is it concealing its cultivation?"


    Zhou Qingxuan was inwardly shocked. She had personally auctioned off the defective Profound Water Turtle egg back then, yet Lan Chang''an had not only sessfully raised the creature, but it had also grown far faster than expected.


    "Miss Zhou, long time no see." a man''s clear voice rang out, interrupting her thoughts. Standing on the steps leading into the house was a man dressed in white, his demeanor tranquil and mild as jade.


    His face and figure seemed almost identical to the young talisman master she had met at Bamboo Leaf Mountain thirty years ago.

 Chapter 89: Cooperative Transaction

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Several years ago, Lan Chang''an had once sought an audience with Zhou Qingxuan at the Zhou Family encampment, where he had addressed her as a senior.


    Calling her "Miss Zhou" today was not without reason.


    When they first met at Bamboo Leaf Mountain, Zhou Qingxuan had been a peculiar and clever young girl, twenty years younger than Lan Chang''an.


    In terms of age difference, he could be her father.


    "Big Brother Lan, we''ve known each other for decades, calling me Miss Zhou is too formal. Why not just call me Qingxuan?"


    Zhou Qingxuan smiled charmingly, her voice as crisp as wind chimes, with a hint of yful dissatisfaction.


    At this moment, she seemed just like the girl next door, not the high and mighty genius Foundation Establishment elder of the Zhou Family.


    Big Brother Lan?Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but reassess this girl.


    If he remembered correctly, thest thing she said to him was: "I don''t want to see you again."


    "Miss Zhou, you tter me. You are the genius Foundation Establishment of the Zhou Family. How could this old man dare to overstep?" Lan Chang''an didn''t fall for her charm and invited her into the house.


    "Big Brother Lan is too modest, reaching Foundation Establishment at seventy is something ordinary cultivators cannot achieve. And you''ve maintained yourself so well."


    Zhou Qingxuan''s lively eyes were filled withughter, her delicate and wless pure face in stark contrast to her undting curves.


    She thought to herself: Hmph! You old fox, if it weren''t for the elders of my family asking, I wouldn''t havee to see you.


    ...


    Guan Qiaozhi poured their tea, then respectfully excused herself.


    The two chatted about old times, mainly about the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town.


    Naturally, the auction and the rampage of the evil cultivator Liang Shaotian from back then were mentioned.


    Lan Chang''an learned more details about how Zhou Qingxuan and her uncle Zhou Jingxuan managed to survive Liang Shaotian.


    "s, all these years, there''s been no news of ''Senior Yan''." Zhou Qingxuan wrinkled her nose, seemingly regretful.


    Lan Chang''an found it odd, not expecting that after all these years, this girl still remembered this matter.


    "That Liang Shaotian, on the other hand, has be more rampant, mastering the ''ck Dipper Demon me'', and has been on a killing spree, exterminating several famous Foundation Establishment cultivators. In recent years, he''s established a hidden demonic sect near the ck Fog Mountain Range on the border of Liang Kingdom." Zhou Qingxuan''s expression was one of deep loathing.


    Lan Chang''an had heard of Liang Shaotian''s notorious reputation over the years.


    The reason for his killing spree, ording to him, was that the righteous sects were framing him.


    Liang Shaotian publicly stated that he never raped and murdered the female cultivator of Xuan Yin Pavilion and that the real culprit was a direct disciple of the me Departing Pce.


    However, Liang Shaotian had a terrible reputation in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, and no one believed his words.


    me Departing Pce is a Nascent Soul-level power in the Liang Kingdom; who would dare question it?


    Over the years, the charges against Liang Shaotian had only increased.


    The reason Zhou Qingxuan brought up Liang Shaotian again was that the Zhou Family''s territory was close to a small branch of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    The hidden base Liang Shaotian established was near the border of the Liang Kingdom, also near the ck Fog Mountain Range, not far from the Zhou Family''s territory.


    ...


    "Miss Zhou, your visit today is not just to reminisce with me, is it?" Lan Chang''an took a sip of spirit tea.


    "Big Brother Lan, to be honest, this time I''m here on behalf of my family to invite you to be a guest elder for our Zhou Family." Zhou Qingxuan said seriously.


    This did not surprise Lan Chang''an.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator and a second-rank talisman master with the reputation of reaching Foundation Establishment in his ancient age, it was normal for the Zhou Family to be interested.


    "I have just entered Foundation Establishment and recently became a second-rank talisman master. How could I be worthy?" Lan Chang''an politely declined.


    Then, Zhou Qingxuan revealed the truth:


    The Zhou Family''s current second-rank talisman master was nearing the end of his life, and there was no one to seed him in the art of talismans.


    It''s not that the Zhou Familycked talent.


    Most of the Zhou Family''s talents focused on beast taming, followed by alchemy and talisman crafting.


    When Lan Chang''an was at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, he had demonstrated a second-rank talisman in front of Zhou Qingxuan. After reaching Foundation Establishment, he was now a proper second-rank talisman master.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an had a good reputation, which added to his appeal.


    There was another hidden reason Zhou Qingxuan didn''t mention.


    Fu Xuemei owed Lan Chang''an a favor, which the Zhou Family valued.


    The Zhou Family was located in the northwest of the Liang Kingdom, near a small branch of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Huanglong Immortal City was directly north, adjacent to the main branch of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    The distance between the two wasn''t too far, nor too close.


    The Zhou Family had always wanted to deepen their rtionship and cooperation with the Huanglong Mountain lineage.


    The Zhou Family elders knew about Zhou Qingxuan''s past acquaintance with Lan Chang''an, so they sent her to win him over.


    This was the reason for Zhou Qingxuan''s personal visit.


    ...


    "Big Brother Lan, the Earth Spirit Pill I sold youst time was a mistake. This second-rank Earth Spirit Pill is to make up for that oversight." Zhou Qingxuan smiled charmingly, handing over a brown porcin bottle.


    "Oh?"


    Lan Chang''an took the bottle, which contained a properly effective low-grade second-rank Earth Spirit Pill.


    This gesture from Zhou Qingxuan was an apology.


    "A second-rank Earth Spirit Pill can enhance the cultivation of earth-element spirit beasts." Lan Chang''an epted it calmly.


    Squeak, squeak!


    Attracted by the enticing scent of the Earth Spirit Pill, an Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from a hole in the courtyard.


    It ran to Lan Chang''an, looking up at him eagerly.


    "A second-rank Earth Burrowing Rat?"


    Zhou Qingxuan was stunned.


    When she entered the courtyard, she had sensed the presence of the Earth Burrowing Rat but didn''t expect it to have sessfully advanced to the second rank.


    "Wait! This Earth Burrowing Rat''s bloodline has mutated, its demonic power is significantly stronger than that of an ordinary rat demon."


    Zhou Qingxuan was filled with surprise, her delicate mouth agape, staring intently at the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    "Thanks to the Earth Spirit Pill Miss Zhou gave me back then. Although its properties were abnormal, by a stroke of luck, it allowed this rat to advance to the second rank and its bloodline to mutate." Lan Chang''an said half-truthfully.


    Having lived for a long time, he had no intention of hiding his spirit pets.


    A second-rank Earth Burrowing Rat could disy his strength.


    Lan Chang''an had certain needs from the Zhou Family, such as second-rank mid-tote stage beast skins.


    "Bloodline mutation?"


    Gazing at the robust rat demon with an orange-yellow tinge, Zhou Qingxuan was dumbfounded, her chest heaving.


    The Earth Spirit Pill she gave, with its abnormal properties, had actually turned out to be a stroke of luck for Lan Chang''an?


    Even Zhou Qingxuan herself couldn''t guarantee what effects the abnormal properties of that Earth Spirit Pill would have.


    Normally, bad results would ur nine times out of ten, but there was also a slim chance of triggering a bloodline mutation.


    "Big Brother Lan is indeed fortunate to reach Foundation Establishment at seventy." Zhou Qingxuan''s eyes sparkled as if wanting to reevaluate Lan Chang''an.


    The cultivation of the Profound Water Turtle exceeded expectations. The Earth Burrowing Rat''s bloodline mutation, and advancing to the second rank. Luck was one aspect, but Lan Chang''an undoubtedly possessed secrets to beast taming.


    Now, Lan Chang''an was a Foundation Establishment cultivator, a second-rank talisman master, he had a second-rank spirit beast by his side, and an inspirational reputation. Even the Zhou Family couldn''t easily pry into his secrets.


    "Big Brother Lan, did you obtain a beast taming inheritance?"


    Zhou Qingxuan''s eyes softened, her delicate face moved closer, exuding a fresh lotus fragrance.


    "Miss Zhou, don''t overthink it. I am merely good at healing, and with the help of rare treasures, I was able to cultivate the Profound Water Turtle smoothly." Lan Chang''an dispelled her thoughts.


    "The art of healing?"


    Zhou Qingxuan pondered, her thoughts active.


    Veterinary medicine was also one of the hundred arts of Immortal Cultivation.


    If one''s medical skills were high enough, it was not a delusion to raise a sickly Profound Water Turtle and promote its growth.


    ...


    "Miss Zhou, I am ustomed to freedom and cannot join the Zhou Family. However, I am open to cooperation." Lan Chang''an didn''t beat around the bush and expressed his intentions.


    Upon hearing this, Zhou Qingxuan was slightly disappointed but this oue was within her expectations. If she couldn''t recruit him outright, securing a coborative agreement was eptable as well.


    "Our Zhou Family has specific needs for second-rank talismans. If Big Brother Lan can meet these demands, we can provide excellent materials for talisman crafting in exchange."


    "Oh, which second-rank talismans?" Lan Chang''an inquired.


    The majority were for traps and binding, which posed no challenge for him


    "No problem. I hope the Zhou Family can provide me withte second-rank beast skins." Lan Chang''an stated his request.


    "Second-rankte-stage beast skins?" Zhou Qingxuan raised her eyebrows; she hadn''t expected Lan Chang''an to aim so high.


    Ate second-rank beast''s strength was formidable, and even Huanglong Immortal City rarely saw such hides.


    "I wish to create mid second-rank talismans, but my skill iscking, so I mustpensate with higher-grade materials to boost my sess rate." Lan Chang''an sighed.


    "Mid second-rank talisman?"


    Zhou Qingxuan''s eyes flickered, and she surmised that Lan Chang''an must have be a second-rank low-grade talisman master while in the ninthyer of Qi-Refining. After all, he had exceptional talisman drawing talent and was no longer young.


    Now that he had entered Foundation Establishment, his magical powers and spiritual sense had greatly increased, allowing him to attempt the creation of mid-grade talismans.


    In the field of talisman crafting, it was not umon for one to boost the sess rate by using higher-grade materials when their skill was insufficient.


    A mid second-rank talisman was akin to a mid-Foundation Establishment-level spell, and they were rare in the market. Ordinary cultivator ns would treat such a talisman as a trump card, and even the Beast Taming Zhou Family would need to keep such powerful means at hand.


    "If Big Brother Lan can refine second-rank mid-grade talisman that meets our requirements, it wouldn''t be impossible for the Zhou Family to providete second-rank demonic beast skin." Zhou Qingxuan mumbled.


    Lan Chang''an''s heart leaped with joy. As expected, the Beastmaster Zhou Family could afford to provide such a rare item.


    The connections he had cultivated in the past came to fruition. Acquiring the materials to craft second-rank superior-grade talismans through normal channels was impossible.

 Chapter 90: The Worldly Wonder From Previous Life

    "Late second-rank beast skins are also precious to our Zhou Family. The quality and quantity of the talismans you provide must meet the corresponding requirements." Zhou Qingxuan added.


    Next, the two discussed the details of their cooperation and bargained intensely.


    For the first batch of cooperation, the Zhou Family mainly provided mid second-rank beast skins. Only a small piece ofte second-rank beast skin was provided.


    This cooperation was considered a trial.


    The Zhou Family needed to first assess Lan Chang''an''s talisman-drawing capabilities.


    For the initial cooperation, Zhou Qingxuan decided to offer a small piece of beast skin as a special exception.


    Lan Chang''an was well aware that Zhou Qingxuan was very interested in his little beast taming secret.


    Without demonstrating certain strength and value, Zhou Qingxuan would not promise to providete second-rank beast skins in their cooperation.


    Before she left, Lan Chang''an gifted Zhou Qingxuan several low second-rank talismans.Having just received second-rank Earth Spirit Pills, he couldn''t take advantage of others without reciprocation.


    The Zhou Family''s connections were still very useful to him, and maintaining contact was beneficial.


    Just as Zhou Qingxuan left.


    Squeak! Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat rubbed against Lan Chang''an''s robe, looking very fawning.


    "Go and stay down there, don''t scare people." Lan Chang''an flicked a porcin bottle, impatiently waving his hand.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, with a ttering expression, excitedly opened its mouth and swallowed the porcin bottle whole.


    Then, it wagged its tail and swiftly burrowed into the ground, disappearing in a sh.


    "It certainly doesn''t act like a rat." Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    ...


    In the following months, Lan Chang''an maintained his aloofness as a Foundation Establishment cultivator, rarely receiving visitors.


    The spiritual energy environment at Water Moon Residence was not suitable for his cultivation. He needed to cultivate for five to six hours daily to reach the daily limit of his Evergreen Technique.


    In Huanglong Immortal City, the environment with second-rank spirit veins was either in the caves of Huanglong Mountain or in Huanglong District at the foot of Huanglong Mountain, where Alchemist Hua''s mansion was located.


    A cost-effective choice was to rent a mansion in Huanglong District.


    However, Huanglong District was not Lan Chang''an''s ideal residence.


    Firstly, it gathered Foundation Establishment cultivators, and even a few Fake-Dan Immortals, it was a veritable cloud of powerful beings.


    Secondly, Huanglong District bordered Mount Huang; while not quite under the immortals'' noses, one could say it was at their feet.


    The ideal cultivation environment for Lan Chang''an would be quiet and private.


    He nned to visit the Mu Family and then inspect various ces outside.


    In the various regions of the cultivation world in the Liang Kingdom, there were spiritualnds avable for rent or purchase.


    If financially sufficient, he could even buy a small second-rank spirit veinnd, farm, raising pets, cultivating longevity skills, and staying out of worldly disputes.


    With a long lifespan, the Evergreen Technique suited nurturing spirit herbs.


    Not striving or fighting, just by nting arge number of spirit herbs and elixirs, he could umte terrifying wealth over one or two hundred years.


    Of course, that was an ideal situation.


    In the ever-changing cultivation world, it was difficult to staypletely out of worldly disputes.


    ...


    Apart from daily cultivation.


    Lan Chang''an asionally went to various ces in the inner city to collect mid to superior-grade second-rank talisman materials.


    In terms of materials, he couldn''t rely solely on the Zhou Family.


    Lan Chang''an mainlycked the raw materials for talisman paper.


    For the talisman brush, he had the one gifted by Fu Xuemei, which was enough for now.


    For spiritual ink, he had obtained quite a bit of demon beast blood in the ck Fog Mountain Range a few years ago.


    The 400-year-old Blood Ink Flower found by the Earth Burrowing Rat could significantly enhance the quality of the spiritual ink.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, collecting mid-grade second-rank talisman materials was much easier than before.


    The first delivery from the Zhou Family had yet to arrive, but in the months since he''d begun, Lan Chang''an had created more than twenty mid second-rank talismans, improving his defensive capabilities significantly.


    The only regret was that he temporarily couldn''t findte second-rank beast skins or the corresponding talisman paper.


    Lan Chang''an''s Treasure Talisman Project required superior-grade second-rank spiritual wood bark, which he hadn''t found in Huanglong Immortal City.


    There were some clues though.


    Large auctions might feature superior-grade second-rank spiritual wood bark, but that depended on luck.


    In the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom, there was one ce that definitely had superior-grade second-rank spiritual wood bark.


    That was the Qingzhu Sect.


    The sect where Chen Fuhai and his wife resided.


    "The Qingzhu Sect not only has superior-grade second-rank spiritual wood bark, but even third-rank ones." Lan Chang''an thought, contemting whether he should strengthen his connections with Old Chen Fuhai.


    The spiritual bamboo and wood of the Qingzhu Sect were rted to the sect''s protective formation and were rarely sold externally, requiring some connections.


    ...


    Another month passed.


    The Zhou Family''s first batch of second-rank beast skin materials arrived at Water Moon Residence.


    Zhou Qingxuan represented the Zhou Family in this transaction.


    "Late second-rank beast skin, finally in my hands." Lan Chang''an held a two-foot-long small piece of spiritual beast skin, feeling ted.


    Lan Chang''an''s real purpose for thete second-rank beast skin was to draw superior-grade second-rank talismans.


    A talisman master at mid-grade second-rank and above was very rare in the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom.


    Even rarer than alchemists of the same level.


    For no other reason than the scarcity of raw materials and theck of practice experience for talisman masters.


    Late second-rank demon beasts were not easy to deal with.


    Second-rank and above spiritual wood also had long growth cycles.


    As for third-rank talisman masters, there were even fewer.


    The difficulty of obtaining Core Formation-level demon beast skin was imaginable.


    Going further, the path of a talisman master was almost entirely dark.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an held the small piece ofte second-rank demonic beast skin, working with Guan Qiaozhi to process it, going through several steps, adding other materials, and making it into talisman paper.


    After eliminating waste, he obtained seven pieces of superior-grade second-rank talisman papers.


    With his early Foundation Establishment cultivation, drawing superior-grade second-rank talismans was somewhat strenuous.


    The sess rate was less than half.


    In the end, he drew three superior-grade second-rank talismans.


    One for attack, one for defense, and one for escape.


    This sess rate wasparable to superior-grade second-rank talisman masters.


    If Lan Chang''an advanced to mid-Foundation Establishment or cultivated to the second or third level of Foundation Establishment, there would be room for improvement.


    Lan Chang''an naturally epted the three superior-grade talismans with a smile.


    Using the mid-grade second-rank beast skins as raw materials, he drew over twenty mid-grade second-rank talismans.


    He took out six mid-grade talismans and paired them with more than ten low second-rank talismans, paying the Zhou Family.


    This transaction waspleted.


    Zhou Qingxuan was quite satisfied with the quality of the talismans.


    The next cooperation would depend on the beast-taming Zhou Family''s needs.


    ...


    Shortly after drawing talismans for the Zhou Family.


    Lan Chang''an bought a batch of mid-grade second-rank spirit sand stones.


    The progress of the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual elerated, gradually approaching the fifthyer. Once advanced, his physique''s strength would beparable to mid second-rank demonic beasts.


    Before he knew it, nearly half a year had passed since Lan Chang''an emerged from his Foundation Establishment seclusion.


    One day, he received a letter from the Mu Family.


    In the letter, Li Erqing expressed his anticipation for Lan Chang''an''s return to Feiyue Lake as a guest, saying the Mu Family would eagerly await his arrival.


    At this time, Li Erqing did not yet know the true purpose of Lan Chang''an''s visit to Feiyue Lake, nor the fate it would bring to the Mu Family.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t hurry to Feiyue Lake.


    He had a small matter to handle in Jin Xiu Lane in the inner city.


    ...


    "Qiaozhi, ask young Sang next door toe over." Lan Chang''an instructed.


    After years of observation and analysis, he confirmed that the puppet master across the street had acquired a decent puppet inheritance.


    The path of puppetry was rtively unpopr.


    Making puppets was very time-consuming.


    The cost was twice that of the same-grade magic weapons, and during battles, it required part of the cultivator''s spiritual sense and had to be matched with the puppet control technique.


    In Lan Chang''an''s previous lifetime, puppets had been practically useless, and he wouldn''t have wasted his time researching them even if one had been offered to him for free.


    "Senior Lan, what instructions do you have for me?" The puppet master, a middle-aged man, walked into Water Moon Residence, appearing somewhat uneasy.


    "Lan has some interest in the path of puppetry and hopes Puppet Master Sang can guide me a bit." Lan Chang''an saidzily, using his mana to roll a jade slip and five talismans to Puppet Master Sang.


    The jade slip contained an alchemy inheritance, the same worst set given to Alchemist Du.


    The five talismans were all low second-rank, no longer defective products.


    Master Sang hesitated for a moment before taking out a jade slip, respectfully saying, "The transaction benefits this junior more."


    Lan Chang''an took the jade slip, which contained a second-rank puppet inheritance, capable of making top second-rank puppets.


    Master Sang was being modest in his words.


    "Not bad." Lan Chang''an nodded in satisfaction.


    "If there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave." Puppet Master Sang said with a slight sigh of relief.


    "Puppet Master Sang, don''t rush! I''m curious, where did you get the spiritual sense cultivation technique you practice?" Lan Chang''an asked with a smile.


    When he first met Puppet Master Sang, thetter didn''t have a spiritual sense far surpassing those of the same rank.


    "This..." Puppet Master Sang''s body stiffened, cold sweat dripping down his back as his core secret was pointed out.


    "I''m just curious. Every cultivator has their own secrets. If it''s inconvenient to answer, you can leave it at that." Lan Chang''an said.


    "I obtained the spiritual sense technique from a mysterious traveling merchant." Master Sang confessed.


    If Lan Chang''an wanted to forcefully take his core secrets, he would fight to the death.


    Fortunately, the other party acted with principles and only sought for the less important puppet inheritance.


    "A mysterious traveling merchant, a transaction?" Lan Chang''an pondered, suddenly recalling a rumor from his past life.


    His mind tightened as he asked, "What did that wandering daoist call himself?"


    "He called himself Daoist Tianshu." Puppet Master Sang replied.


    "Daoist Tianshu?" Lan Chang''an was shocked, waves surging in his heart.


    Daoist Tianshu.


    A mysterious figure from the Worldly Wonders series in the Heaven Honoured Continent.


    This wandering daoist was absolutely neutral, traveling across the continent and trading items with fated individuals.


    From Qi-Refining loose cultivators to Nascent Soul and Deity Transformation Realm cultivators, all could benefit from trading with this enigmatic figure.


    This Daoist Tianshu had appeared in the Great Kun of his previous life, and the cultivators who traded with him gained no small amount of fortune.


    "Puppet Master Sang, where did you meet Daoist Tianshu?" Lan Chang''an asked.

 Chapter 91: First Encounter with Tianshu

    The news of Daoist Tianshu left Lan Chang''an excited.


    In his previous life, this Worldly Wonder had emerged in Great Kun, and now traces of him had again been found in Great Qing. This confirmed his suspicion that the two cultivation realms of Great Qing and Great Kun were both within the vast and boundless Heaven Honoured Continent.


    He wanted to meet the Daoist Tianshu, not only to gather information but also because this mysterious traveling merchant represented a unique opportunity for any cultivator fortunate enough to meet him. Some took advantage of this chance, while others let it slip through their fingers.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had a chance encounter with a Core Formation cultivator who had acquired a powerful exotic treasure from Daoist Tianshu.


    "Back to Senior Lan, that was eight years ago. At that time, I encountered that traveling merchant within a temple in the Outer City," answered Puppet Master Sang.


    Lan Chang''an inquired further about the details.


    Using a unique stone passed down in his family, Puppet Master Sang traded for a puppet inheritance along with its core spiritual sense secret technique from Daoist Tianshu, a significant opportunity for a Qi-Refining loose cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an suspected Puppet Master Sang had already refined a second-rank puppet and could contend with early Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "Unfortunately, all these years have passed."Lan Chang''an felt disappointed; as a traveling merchant, Daoist Tianshu usually stayed in one ce for only a short while.


    Without a specific need, he wouldn''t linger for long. It seemed that this opportunity would not present itself to him.


    ...


    The next day, Lan Chang''an¡ªperhaps out of lingering curiosity, perhaps being unwilling¡ªpaid a visit to the Outer City.


    The temple mentioned by Puppet Master Sang was dpidated and abandoned, with no one in sight even in broad daylight.


    Lan Chang''an sighed, preparing to turn around and leave.


    "This little friend, have youe to seek this humble Daoist?" A calm voice echoed from the corner of the temple.


    Lan Chang''an''s mind and body shook as he looked towards the source: a yellow-robed Daoist, roughly forty- or fifty-years-old. His features were unremarkable, with a slightly square face and a beard beneath his chin, and his eyes shone brightly.


    Carrying arge chest on his back, looking dusty and weary, he gave off the impression of a wandering merchant.


    "Are you Senior Tianshu?" Lan Chang''an took a deep breath, suppressing his emotions.


    To have the honor of meeting this Worldly Wonder, even at the peak of Core Formation in his previous life, would be an opportunity. Many Nascent Soul old monsters would also be eager for such an encounter, though it was not something one could seek.


    "Hehe, this humble Daoist is just a traveling merchant. Little friend, there''s no need to address me as a senior," Daoist Tianshu smiled warmly, with a smoothness characteristic of merchants.


    "How should I address you, little friend?"


    "My surname is Lan." Lan Chang''an calmed down. His considerable spiritual sense, as well as the Evergreen Technique, were not worth mentioning in the face of this extraordinary individual.


    Daoist Tianshu was strictly neutral and conducted all transactions fairly. He had dealt with so many major powers and cultivators of all sses without ever defrauding anyone.


    "So it''s Little Friend Lan. This humble Daoist predicted two months ago that there would be another business opportunity in Huanglong Immortal City, so I returned," Daoist Tianshu retrieved therge cage from his back as he spoke.


    Divination arts! Lan Chang''an''s heart skipped a beat; this Worldly Wonder had foreseen his arrival.


    Divination usually wasn''t always urate, which was why Daoist Tianshu had chosen to wait here rather than seek him out.


    "Dare I ask senior where you came from?" Lan Chang''an couldn''t directly ask about the Great Kun from his previous life, so he first side-stepped the question. Although reincarnation was a matter of little significance in the eyes of the man before him.


    "This humble daoist came from Fenghua Prefecture, Great Jin Immortal Dynasty, passing through what you call the Great Qing," Daoist Tianshu smiled.


    "Great Jin Immortal Dynasty?"


    Lan Chang''an''s mind stirred. When he had formed his Dan in his previous life, he had faintly heard rted rumors, and it was said to be one of the most powerful forces in this world. Now, he confirmed the existence of the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty from the mouth of Daoist Tianshu.


    He no longer needed to inquire about Great Kun; it must share the same continent as Great Qing. If he could advance to the Nascent Soul Realm, he would have the ability to cross regions.


    "Little Friend Lan, this humble Daoist wishes to make a transaction with you." Daoist Tianshu took out three items from the chest.


    Lan Chang''an was instantly attracted.


    The first item was a spiritual wood with blue-patterned bark, emitting peculiar spiritual fluctuations.


    The spiritual pressure made Lan Chang''an''s breath hitch.


    "A third-rank spiritual wood."


    Lan Chang''an''s heart leaped.


    His Treasure Talisman Project required excellent spiritual wood bark, ideally second-rank or higher, and third-rank was the best.


    The second item was a ck pill bottle with abel detailing the contents inside.


    "A third-rank Life Extension Pill!" Lan Chang''an swallowed hard.


    A third-rank Life Extension Pill could extend lifespan by over thirty years. Produced by Daoist Tianshu, it could very possibly be a product of premium quality, granting even better effects.


    If he consumed it, the lifespan he would gain would be double the usual amount, and his Evergreen mana would also receive a boost.


    The third item was a crystal bottle containing a clear liquid which seemedposed of many tiny crystals.


    "Core Formation spiritual item, Tianjing Water!" Lan Chang''an''s breathing grew heavier. Tianjing Water could increase the quality of the finished Dan by some margin.


    Each of these items was exactly what he needed. This was no coincidence, and it was likely that Daoist Tianshu''s Divination Arts had predicted his needs.


    "How would Daoist Tianshu like to proceed?" Lan Chang''an regained hisposure; Daoist Tianshu must have sought him out for a reason.


    "This humble daoist needs Little Friend Lan to expend one year of lifespan to provide vitality for this item." Daoist Tianshu produced a peach wood branch, roughly an infant''s arm thick. The branch was withered, yet emanated a faint glow, and the aura it exuded made Lan Chang''an''s heart skip a beat.


    In his previous life, he had seen up to fourth-rank spiritual objects at most, but this peach wood branch surpassed even those, at least fifth-rank.


    Daoist Tianshu mentioned consuming lifespan, clearly aware of his practice of the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, he was not half surprised.


    "Whether to trade or not is entirely up to Little Friend Lan. After the transaction, you may choose any one of these three items in exchange."


    Daoist Tianshu pointed to the third-rank spiritual wood, Life Extension Pill, and Tianjing Water before him.


    Choose one of the three?


    Lan Chang''an knew that no matter which one he chose, he would profit.


    A year of lifespan was nothing, he could just buy a Life Extension Pill and make up for it several times over.


    Honestly, he wanted all three items, but he could only pick one.


    "I agree to this trade."


    How could Lan Chang''an miss out on such an opportunity?


    At Daoist Tianshu''s signal, He approached the peach wood branch, consumed his lifespan, and activated the Evergreen Technique''s healing secret spell.


    His palm exuded a verdant and ancient aura, like a tender sprout, merging into the withered half of the peach wood branch.


    After spending a year''s worth of longevity, Lan Chang''an stopped.


    Examining it closely, The branch''s withering state had halted; it now pulsated with few bits of fresh vitality.


    But it didn''t truly reverse from withering to flourishing.


    Deep in thought, Lan Chang''an realized the peach wood branch''s rank was too high; his current level of the Evergreen Technique couldn''t couldn''t affect its fundamental nature.


    Daoist Tianshu''s request had only been for him to inject some life force, maintaining its "freshness" and preventing the peach wood branch from dying away.


    "Young Friend Lan, please choose an item." Daoist Tianshu gestured generously.


    "I choose the Tianjing Water." Lan Chang''an promptly decided.


    Cultivation was the foundation of everything. Tianjing Water which could elevate the Dan''s quality, naturally became his top priority.


    With this extra item, his chances of forming a True-Dan in the future greatly increased.


    This was rted to whether he could advance to the Nascent Soul Realm in this life.


    Daoist Tianshu handed the crystal bottle containing Tianjing Water to Lan Chang''an.


    He then carefully stored the peach wood branch back into therge chest.


    "May I ask, Daoist, what is the use of this peach wood branch?" Lan Chang''an inquired curiously.


    Daoist Tianshu''s willingness to this exchange indicated it would indeed yield a greater profit for him.


    "This matter isn''t a secret on Heaven Honoured Continent; this humble daoist can tell you without any charge." Daoist Tianshu replied with a smile as he strapped the case onto his back.


    "The Great Jin Immortal Dynasty aims to follow the legendary tales of ancient immortality rted to the Qin dynasty by forging the ''Nine-Five Supreme Treasure Dragon Artifacts'' to subdue the dynasty''s spiritual fortune. The peach wood branch I just showed you is a material for one of these supreme treasures, the ''Imperial Dragon Shoes,'' with which you can exchange benefits in the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty."


    Nine-Five Supreme Treasure Dragon Artifacts?


    Though Lan Chang''an didn''t know its origins, it was undoubtedly no ordinary magical object.


    Nine-Five hinted at the utmost supremacy.


    He had a hunch that if theplete set of Nine-Five Supreme Treasure Dragon Artifacts were sessfully forged, it would have a profound impact on the situation in Heaven Honoured Continent.


    Of course, such concerns were not relevant to a lowly Foundation Establishment cultivator like himself.


    ...


    "Alright, the transaction ends here." Daoist Tianshu stepped outside the temple in one stride.


    "Daoist Tianshu, may I ask about the origins of my Evergreen Technique?" Lan Chang''an chased after him.


    "There''s nothing on you that this humble monk desires, insufficient to barter for this information."


    With these final words, Daoist Tianshu vanished without a trace.


    Lan Chang''an put away the Tianjing Water and stood in ce, long unable to calm himself.


    This mysterious encounter with Daoist Tianshu had challenged the limits of Lan Chang''an''s previous life''s knowledge.


    Rumor had it that Daoist Tianshu was not a normal creature, but rather a special entity resembling a puppet, which carried out certain missions through constant transactions.


    Daoist Tianshu was merely one of the many extraordinary individuals featured in the Worldly Wonders series.


    "As long as I live long enough, my Evergreen mana will grow stronger. The secrets of this heaven and earth won''t be hidden from me."


    ....


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an purchased a second-rank flying boat from the Huanglong Immortal City, leaving him with very few spirit stones.


    It was high time to sell those Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Before setting off, he informed Zhao Siyao. Zhao Siyao had yet to reach mid-Foundation Establishment and nned to stay in the Huanglong Immortal City for another two years to continue cultivating.


    Lan Chang''an piloted his flying boat, leaving behind the Huanglong Immortal City, where he had been cultivating for over twenty years, heading straight for the Mu family''s residence at Feiyue Lake.


    This book has no plot connection with Immortal Hong Road. It merely borrows a ssic set of magical treasures from back then, serving as a nod to the past.


    T/N: ^One of author''s other novels which ended over a decade ago.

 Chapter 92: Returning to the Homeland

    With his Foundation Establishment cultivation, Lan Chang''an navigated the second-rank flying boat at a much greater speed than before.


    He maintained a steady flight, bncing his magical power, so that he would be in the best possible state to respond to emergencies.


    In less than two months, the flying boat was approaching Feiyue Lake.


    On thest half-day of the journey, Lan Chang''an slowed the boat as it passed over arge river.


    He looked down at a pleasure boat in the river, where the sounds of zither and flute drifted up.


    These were not mundane melodies but tunes from the Sound Dao, imbued with a spiritual power that induced drowsiness and lethargy.


    "Brother Lan, everything is going smoothly for you in Huanglong Immortal City. Whye here to muddy the waters?"


    A man''s sigh floated up from the pleasure boat.


    Two maids opened the cabin door. Out walked a handsome man in a purple jade robe, standing gracefully at the prow.The wind and waves around the boat suddenly calmed to mirror-like stillness as if to reflect his cid demeanor. His aura indicated that he had reached the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    "Young Master Huang?"


    Lan Chang''an immediately recognized him.


    This handsome man, now in the early Foundation Establishment stage, was Huang Yu, the young master of the Maple Leaf Huang Family, who possessed high-grade spiritual roots.


    Back when the Mu Family was contending with the Zheng Family, they considered offering Mu Xiuyun''s hand in marriage to Huang Yu, but the Huang Family had shown no sincerity, offering only a concubine''s status at most.


    In Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town, Huang Yu had tried to bribe Lan Chang''an without sess.


    "Brother Lan, since you¡¯vee such a long way, why note down for a cup of tea and some music? We haven¡¯t seen each other for years, and I have much to say to you." Huang Yu''s phoenix eyes scrutinized Lan Chang''an with a hint of a smile.


    Half a year ago, when he confirmed the news of Lan Chang''an''s Foundation Establishment, Huang Yu was genuinely surprised.


    The little talisman master whom he had failed to buy off back on Bamboo Leaf Mountain had turned out to be that rumored ancient Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "This Lan is not in the mood for tea. If Young Master Huang has something to say, please speak directly." Upon seeing Huang Yu, Lan Chang''an felt a surge of killing intent.


    Who had orchestrated the attempts to entice him out of the market back on Bamboo Leaf Mountain? If it had been an inexperienced Qi-Refining cultivator, they would have been long dead.


    Did they think Lan Chang''an didn''t have any suspicions?


    He simplycked the power to act on it back then, confined as he was within the other''s territory.


    Killing Huang Yu would not be difficult for Lan Chang''an.


    Even though Huang Yu was at the third level of Foundation Establishment, they were still in the early stage, and the strength of their mana wasn''t that different.


    The only reason Lan Chang''an had yet to act was because he didn''t wish to leave behind any trace of his identity.


    "I suspect the news of my return was leaked; otherwise, Huang Yu would not know to wait for me on the way to Feiyue Lake." Lan Chang''an knew that if he killed Huang Yu today, it wouldn¡¯t go unnoticed.


    A year ago, he had sent a letter to Feiyue Lake. Somehow, the news had leaked. It might have been through Huanglong Immortal City''s intelligencework or a leak within the Mu Family. The letter itself could have been intercepted by a third party.


    Regardless, Lan Chang''an had purposely made no mention of the Foundation Establishment Pill in his letter.


    .....


    "Brother Lan, let''s not beat around the bush."


    "Twenty years ago, you severed ties with the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake. Our current conflict between the two families should have nothing to do with you." Huang Yu''s tone quickened, getting straight to the point.


    "If Fellow Daoist Lan turns back now and refrains from meddling in our conflict, the Huang Family will offer a token of gratitude."


    The Huang Family was worried that Lan Chang''an, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, might assist Feiyue Lake in their conflict.


    This was very likely, as Lan Chang''an had spent twenty to thirty years cultivating in Feiyue Lake.


    "Young Master Huang is overthinking. My return to Feiyue Lake this time is merely a visit to an old friend; I have no intention of involving myself in the conflict between the two families." Lan Chang''an replied calmly.


    "Is that so?" Huang Yu appeared skeptical.


    He knew of Lan Chang''an''s "Turtle Talisman Master" moniker¡ªhis reputation for cowardice and valuing his own life above all else. Perhaps he really wouldn''t dare step onto the battlefield.


    "Indeed." Lan Chang''an was not lying.


    Having left the Mu Family, directly intervening in their war did not align with his principles in this lifetime.


    By directly interfering in the conflict, he would inevitably offend arge cultivation family, entangling him in endless conflicts.


    "However, if the Huang Family were to initiate an attack against the Mu Family while I am present, that would be a different matter." Lan Chang''an''s tone turned slightly forceful.


    He sensed that the Huang Family was particrly wary of him, more so than an ordinary early Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "May I ask how long Brother Lan ns to stay with the Mu Family?" Huang Yu asked with a smile.


    "At least two months, at most six." Lan Chang''an replied casually.


    "Haha! As long as Brother Lan does not directly aid the Mu Family, my Huang Family will offerpensation."


    Huang Yuughed heartily, taking out a porcin bottle from his storage pouch and tossing it to Lan Chang''an on the flying boat.


    "This bottle of Essence Condensing Pills is a small token of hospitality from the Huang Family."


    Essence Condensing Pills were second-rank pills, valuable and useful for elerating cultivation in both early and mid Foundation Establishment.


    "Very well."


    Lan Chang''an epted the bottle of Essence Condensing Pills without hesitation.


    Having declined Huang Yu''s invitation to enjoy music andpany at his pleasure boat, Lan Chang''an departed on his flying boat.


    .....


    Huang Yu''s thoughtful eyes followed the retreating figure of Lan Chang''an.


    He held a jade talisman and infused it with spiritual power.


    Soon, an elderly man with a weathered appearance and white hair flew over on a beam of light.


    His aura indicated he was at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage.


    "Uncle Tan," Huang Yu greeted respectfully.


    This elderly man was Huang Tankong, the highest-ranking and most powerful elder of the Huang Family.


    "Yu''er, how did it go?" Huang Tankong asked.


    "From what Lan Chang''an said, he has no intention of getting involved in our conflict with the Mu Family..." Huang Yu recounted the conversation.


    "But he did request that the Huang Family refrain from attacking while he was at the Mu Family."


    "Hmph, for an elderly Foundation Establishment cultivator, he has quite the tone." Huang Tankong''s voice was low,ced with mockery.


    "Uncle Tan, what do you think?"


    "For the next six months, abandon any overt ns against Feiyue Lake." Huang Tankong replied calmly.


    Huang Yu was momentarily stunned.


    Huang Tankong exined indifferently, "Lan Chang''an himself is not a threat. But ording to the intelligence from Huanglong Immortal City, he has ties with the Law Enforcement Hall of Jin Yun Valley, and it is rumored that Fu Xuemei owes him a favor."


    "Recently, he has also been cooperating with the Beast Taming Zhou Family, truly a man who knows how towork."


    "Uncle Tan is right. An elderly Foundation Establishment cultivator poses little threat. We are merely cautious of his connections, and giving face to those behind him." Huang Yu agreed wholeheartedly.


    .....


    Lan Chang''an continued on the flying boat.


    Once the pleasure boat was a mere dot on the horizon, he took out the bottle of Essence Condensing Pills gifted by Huang Yu.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from his pet pouch.


    "Remember his scent," Lan Chang''an ordered.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat sniffed the bottle, nodding eagerly to indicate it had memorized the scent.


    He put the Earth Burrowing Rat away and slightly elerated the flying boat.


    Half a dayter.


    A dazzlingke, as radiant as jade, came into view.


    Seeing the familiar surroundings, Lan Chang''an felt a sense of ease and a touch of long-lost familiarity.


    During the tense standoff between the two families, Feiyue Lake was heavily guarded.


    Lan Chang''an''s Foundation Establishment aura rmed the ancestors on Moonheart Ind.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Two Foundation Establishment cultivators flew toward him from Moonheart Ind. The first was a tall, ck-robed elder with keen eyes and an imposing presence.


    Following him was a balding, middle-aged man wearing a loose robe, resembling a wealthyndowner.


    The slightly plump middle-aged man was none other than Li Erqing.


    "Big brother!"


    Seeing the familiar white-robed youth on the flying boat, Li Erqing''s eyes reddened, waving his arms excitedly despite the presence of the ancestor.


    Mu Renlong''s lips curled into a smile. Li Erqing, usually stern and strict with his descendants, was feared by all. But in front of Lan Chang''an, he reverted to the naive and inexperienced vige boy he once was.


    "The Mu Family of Feiyue Lake wees Fellow Daoist Lan back to his homnd." Mu Renlong''s voice was loud and hearty.


    Boom! Swish, swish...


    From Feiyue Manor, fireworks soared into the sky, apanied by the cheers of the younger generation of the Mu Family, as if celebrating an important holiday.


    Lan Chang''an shot Mu Renlong a meaningful nce. The words "return to your homnd" were carefully chosen. While it was indeed a warm wee, it was also a plea for help, leveraging Lan Chang''an''s prestige as an ancient Foundation Establishment cultivator to bolster the family''s own reputation.


    The phrase "return to your homnd" resonated deeply with him. Had they said "wee back home," it might have seemed presumptuous, exceeding the bounds of propriety.


    Although Lan Chang''an had severed ties with the Mu Family, this ce was where he had begun his journey into the cultivation world, where he had spent the longest stretch of his life. It could be considered his first home in the cultivation world.


    "Fellow Daoist Mu, this is but a routine visit; there''s no need for such grandiose hospitality." Lan Chang''an returned the greeting. He disliked extravagance, but the Mu Family''s grand treatment like this made it impossible to hate.


    "By no means is this a grand reception! Fellow Daoist Lan, achieving foundation establishment at your ancient age is a monumental aplishment, setting an example for all of Liang''s cultivation world. It is also a great honor for Feiyue Lake, and thus worth celebrating."


    Mu Renlong beckoned Lan Chang''an to follow him to Moonheart Ind.


    "Erqing, you look thinner than before."


    As they walked, Lan Chang''an examined Li Erqing''s features. The man had balded slightly, and his eyes were sunken; even in excitement, the signs of fatigue were clear.


    "Ah Big Brother, you wouldn''t believe how troublesome it is to have too many children," Li Erqingmented, his face was bitter.


    Li Erqing had eight wives in the Mu Family, there were a total of eight houses. The women, children, and grandchildren of all the houses added up to a poption of over a hundred people.


    With such arge family, it was difficult to maintain harmony; thepetition between the branches grew fiercer with each generation,parable to a pce drama.


    The descendantspeted for benefits from the old ancestor, turning the Mu Family into a battlefield.


    When they stabbed a mess outside and caused any trouble, Li Erqing, the Foundation Establishment Ancestor, had to take the me.


    His numerous wives and descendants carried his name and reputation like a brand; he couldn''t simply pretend to not hear about it to keep himself out of the mess.

 Chapter 93: The Beauty Reappears

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    On the way to Moonheart Ind, Lan Chang''an learned about Li Erqing''s troubles, which were within his expectations.


    Li Erqing enjoyed the benefits of having many children, so it was only natural that he would face some bacsh as well. The man had bred too quickly, leaving his offspring essentially fending for themselves.


    Due to his background, Li Erqing was not adept at disciplining his offspring. In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had numerous wives and children, and even though he was proficient at such family management, it was not always orderly. Those wives and children were not just cold statistics in a strategy game. Each had their own emotions, experienced birth, aging, illness, and death, and shared in blessings and misfortunes.


    If one was lucky, their children would grow up to bepetent individuals, bringing fortune to their parents. If one was unlucky, they might offend powerful figures, bringing disaster upon their fathers.


    ...


    Upon arriving at Moonheart Ind, Lan Chang''an proposed to first pay respects at Mu Maode''s grave.


    Mu Maode, the former head of the Mu Family, had fifty years ago visited the Jin Yun Valley''s mountain gate and brought back Lan Chang''an, Li Erqing, and other talented seedlings to the family.


    Six years ago, Lan Chang''an had seen the elderly Mu Maode for thest time. Later, during an attack by the Maple Leaf Huang Family, Mu Maode died in battle and did not live to old age.After Mu Maode''s death, the Mu Family held a grand funeral. At that time, Lan Chang''an was plotting to build his foundation in the Huanglong Immortal City, only hearing the news from afar.


    At Mu Maode''s tombstone, Lan Chang''an lit an incense stick and bowed respectfully with his hands cupped before him.


    Apanied by Mu Renlong and Li Erqing, both ancestors of the Foundation Establishment stage, they stood in silence.


    Seeing Lan Chang''an''s actions, Mu Renlong''s eyes revealed a trace of relief.


    Lan Chang''an had decisively severed ties with the family back then, unmoved by the treatment and emotional ties offered by the Mu Family. In the eyes of many in the Mu Family, he was seen as unfeeling and ungrateful.


    Yet Mu Maode, before his death, had returned from the Huanglong Immortal City and spoke well of Lan Chang''an.


    "This child remembers old ties; he is not heartless, merely resolute in his pursuit of immortality. Only leaving the Mu Family could offer him a ray of hope for establishing his foundation..." This was thest time Mu Maode mentioned Lan Chang''an before he died in battle not long after.


    A few yearster, news came from the Huanglong Immortal City about an ancient man sessfully establishing his foundation, inspiring many. Mu Maode''s words hade true.


    Both Mu Renlong and Mu Maode understood one thing: if Lan Chang''an had chosen to stay in Feiyue Lake back then, he would have had no hope of establishing his foundation in this life. The family would never have given a Foundation Establishment Pill to an outsider.


    Back then, Lan Chang''an couldn''t even get his hands on a breakthrough pill for thete Qi-Refining stage, let alone a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    ...


    After paying respects to the deceased, they left the cemetery area.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an caught a glimpse of a familiar young girl carrying a flower basket, heading towards Mu Maode''s grave.


    "Young Miss?"


    It was a young girl in a green dress, with delicate eyebrows and a snowyplexion like a blooming lotus.


    Her long dress reached her shoes, her starry eyes and pearly teeth exuding a cold elegance.


    At that moment, it was as if time had reversed. The young seedlings who first arrived at Feiyue Manor had caught a glimpse of this beauty once again.


    At first nce, Lan Chang''an almost mistook her for Mu Xiuyun. The girl''s appearance and demeanor were very simr to Mu Xiuyun. Her temperament was slightly different, a bit colder.


    When Lan Chang''an left the Mu Family, Mu Xiuyun was no longer a young girl but a mature and charming woman.


    Even if Mu Xiuyun had always had ess to beauty-preserving pills, she could only maintain her appearance and not reverse her age.


    "She is Mu Xiuyun''s adopted grand-niece, Mu Bingyun, an orphan whose parents died in battle many years ago."


    Noticing Lan Chang''an''s gaze, Mu Renlong introduced the girl''s identity.


    "Mu Bingyun has decent qualifications, with a genuine mid-grade spiritual root. Xiuyun nominally took her in as a disciple, but treats her as a daughter."


    "Mu Bingyun?" Lan Chang''an softly repeated the name, saying nothing more.


    At the grave, Mu Bingyun ced the flower basket down, her clear eyes seemingly unintentionally ncing at the white-robed guest.


    From a distance, she could only see a vague figure.


    "Young."


    Mu Bingyun''s red lips moved slightly, her voice youthful. After busying herself at the grave for a moment, she hurried away.


    ...


    In the main hall of Moonheart Ind, the Mu Family elders hosted a banquet to entertain Lan Chang''an, with those apanying them at least at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    "This is my little nephew, Mu Chengji, the current head of the Mu Family." Mu Renlong introduced a middle-aged man in a blue robe, who was handsome and courteous.


    "Junior Mu Chengji greets Senior Lan." The blue-robed man said respectfully.


    Lan Chang''an nodded, his gaze falling on a silent, one-armed old man at the table.


    "Ah, Brother Yunfei?"


    "Brother Chang''an, to think that you still remember me." The one-armed old man''s breath tightened, his murky eyes revealing restrained excitement.


    The one-armed old man was none other than Mu Yunfei. Back then, he had apanied and protected the immortal seedlings, and had once guarded the herb garden with Lan Chang''an, advancing to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining through trials on the frontlines.


    In terms of age, he was a few years older than Lan Chang''an.


    One could say that Mu Yunfei was an elder who had witnessed Lan Chang''an''s growth within the Mu Family.


    At the banquet, Lan Chang''an chatted with Mu Yunfei for a while.


    The head of the family, Mu Chengji, felt somewhat awkward, as he was not familiar with Lan Chang''an within the family and had hardly interacted with him in the past. Now trying to build a rtionship was not even as effective as an old, weak cultivator of the family.


    ...


    At the banquet, the Mu Family''s top management expressed their current predicament, being threatened by the Maple Leaf Huang Family, with their family business suppressed and family members unsafe when venturing outside.


    Family head Mu Chengji tactfully expressed hope that Lan Chang''an could offer assistance. Li Erqing and Mu Yunfei also spoke in favor.


    Lan Chang''an made no promises.


    After the banquet ended, only Lan Chang''an, Mu Renlong, and Li Erqing, the three Foundation Establishment cultivators, remained.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, do you truly not wish to return to the family as an honored elder?" Mu Renlong asked, his eyes sparkling.


    "We don''t expect Fellow Daoist Lan to return to the family and fight on the frontlines. If you could stay at Feiyue Lake and bolster our prestige, our Mu Family would be immensely grateful and would offer generous gifts."


    "Big brother."


    Li Erqing looked at Lan Chang''an with hope in his eyes.


    Lan Chang''an had spent thirty years at Feiyue Lake and was not a heartless person.


    The Mu Family was willing to offer rewards and did not expect him to fight on the frontlines, so there was some hope in this request.


    "Fellow Daoist Mu, Erqing, I won''t directly participate in the conflict between the two families." Lan Chang''an refused.


    Mu Renlong felt disappointed and sighed, but was not surprised.


    Back in the Mu Family, Lan Chang''an had avoided the battlefield andter earned the nickname "Turtle Talisman Master" at Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    "Lan has made this trip to Feiyue Lake for an important business deal with the Mu Family." Lan Chang''an switched to transmitting his voice.


    "A business deal?"


    Mu Renlong and Li Erqing exchanged nces, unable to guess what Lan Chang''an was nning.


    "This matter must be kept confidential. Fellow Daoist Mu, please prepare a private room." Lan Chang''an instructed.


    "Very well." Mu Renlong nodded.


    ...


    Shortly after, in a secret room on Moonheart Ind.


    Under the curious gazes of the two Foundation Establishment cultivators, Lan Chang''an took out a white jade porcin bottle.


    Opening the lid, a peculiar medicinal fragrance wafted out, revealing the crystalline pill inside.


    "This is..."


    Mu Renlong and Li Erqing stared at the pill, their expressions shocked.


    "There''s no need to be surprised. The business I wish to discuss with the Mu Family is this Foundation Establishment Pill!" Lan Chang''an smiled.


    "Big brother! You have another Foundation Establishment Pill?" Li Erqing was shocked,pletely unprepared for this.


    Just now, Lan Chang''an had been unwilling to help the Mu Family, causing him some disappointment. Unexpectedly, Lan Chang''an had prepared a major surprise.


    "The sess rate of refining the Foundation Establishment Pill was good, so there was an extra one." Lan Chang''an exined.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you intend to sell this Foundation Establishment Pill to our Mu Family?" Mu Renlong confirmed excitedly. Even with hisposure, he found it somewhat surreal.


    "One price: five thousand spirit stones." Lan Chang''an stated directly.


    At the Bamboo Leaf Mountain auction, a wed Foundation Establishment Pill that increased the Foundation Establishment probability by only fifteen percent sold for four thousand spirit stones. A genuine Foundation Establishment Pill would be worth even more.


    "Five thousand spirit stones? No problem, we will gather them as soon as possible." Mu Renlong agreed outright, without a second thought.


    The price was undoubtedly fair, and cheaper than it would be at an auction. The keyy in the private transaction, which eliminated the risk of losing such a valuable item to greedy cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an might not have been able to maximize his profit, but he could quietly grow rich. If he sold the pill through an auction, he would also have to pay a hefty fee.


    "I wonder how the Mu n intends to allocate the Foundation Establishment Pill. However, I hope you will give Miss Mu Xiuyun a chance topete for it." Lan Chang''an made a small request.


    Mu Renlong looked troubled. After some thought, he said, "The final allocation of the Foundation Establishment Pill will be decided by several senior members of the family in secret. I can promise you only that I will give her a chance."


    Mu Xiuyun was close in age to Lan Chang''an, and her chances of achieving Foundation Establishment were slim unless she possessed an superior-quality pill. Should her attempt fail, she would suffer grave damage to her vital energy, affecting her lifespan thereafter.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an did not force the matter, merely giving her a chance topete.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an did not linger on Moonheart Ind, instead heading to the courtyard he had once lived in at Feiyue Manor.


    Li Erqing had always kept the small courtyard by theke for Lan Chang''an, preserving it exactly as it was. Upon his return, Lan Chang''an found himself in familiar surroundings, and his mood lifted despite the fact that the spiritual environment there wasn''t suitable for Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    He had no ns to stay long and temporarily used some pills and spirit stones to make up for the deficiencies in the spiritual environment.


    While the ancestors gathered the necessary spirit stones, Lan Chang''an studied the inheritance from Puppeteer Sang. To his delight, he discovered that he had a talent for puppetry, one that far surpassed his aptitude for alchemy.


    Within half a month, he mastered the fundamentals. Using somemon materials, he pieced together several unranked puppet wponents.


    Lan Chang''an was in a wonderful mood. With the longevity of this life, he now had not only the dao of talismans but also the puppetry dao with which he could protect his path.

 Chapter 94: Giving Up Voluntarily

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Lan Chang''an had only recently started learning puppetry and was still at the beginner level.


    That night, Mu Renlong and Li Erqing secretly visited thekeside courtyard, carrying the spirit stones they had gathered.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, here are the spirit stones for purchasing the Foundation Establishment Pill." Mu Renlong handed over a storage pouch.


    Lan Chang''an opened it and nced inside. The bag contained twenty mid-grade spirit stones and three thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    "This is the Foundation Establishment Pill. Please examine it." Lan Chang''an handed a white jade porcin bottle to Mu Renlong.


    After confirming it, Mu Renlong cupped his hands and bowed respectfully. "Fellow Daoist Lan, the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake will always remember today''s favor!"


    The transaction was a sess. The Mu Family obtained the much-needed Foundation Establishment Pill, and Lan Chang''an made a discreet profit.


    Although conducting such a significant transaction alone in the Mu Family''s territory theoretically posed some risk, Lan Chang''an dared to do so not only because he trusted the Mu Family but also because of his own strength.He was confident that even if the two Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Mu Family joined forces, they wouldn''t be his match.


    Mu Renlong likely had some skill, while Li Erqing was considered a rtively weak Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Not to mention the Mu Family, even the Huang Family, with its four Foundation Establishment cultivators, couldn''t intimidate Lan Chang''an. He was confident in his ability to protect himself.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, we must discuss how to determine who will receive the pill. When we have reached a decision, we will inform you." Before leaving, Mu Renlong spoke solemnly.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    Li Erqing flew back from Moonheart Ind and informed Lan Chang''an about the recipient of the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "The head of the family, Mu Chengji."


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t surprised by this oue.


    Mu Chengji had simr aptitude to Mu Xiuyun but was ten years younger. He was Mu Renlong''s favored nephew and had been diligently working for the family for many years.


    His sess rate with the Foundation Establishment Pill was higher than Mu Xiuyun''s.


    "Big Brother, actually the young miss, as a second-rank talisman master, has made significant contributions to the family. She has more seniority than Mu Chengji and should have had the chance topete for the pill." Li Erqing spoke with aplicated expression.


    "Sigh, but the young miss voluntarily gave up the opportunity!"


    "She gave it up voluntarily?" Lan Chang''an sighed softly and remained silent for a long time.


    He understood Mu Xiuyun''s choice.


    Putting aside various factors, Mu Xiuyun was first and foremost a cultivator of the family, always putting its interests above her own. Only after that did she consider her personal feelings and desires.


    For the family''s sake, she had been prepared to marry into the Maple Leaf Huang Family if they showed sincerity in their intentions.


    More than twenty years ago, knowing that Lan Chang''an was going to leave, Mu Xiuyun tried to persuade him to stay and join her family but never mentioned leaving the family with him. Instead, she only strengthened her resolve.


    Compared to women who ran off with their lovers without regard for consequences, Mu Xiuyun was more rational and mature.


    This was something Lan Chang''an appreciated about her, and it also meant he didn''t have to worry about future entanglements.


    ...


    Three dayster, a female visitor arrived at thekeside courtyard.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, Lan Chang''an''s residence was off-limits to ordinary members of the Mu Family, even if it was a temporary stay.


    "Senior Lan, this junior Mu Bingyun, representing my master, is here to visit." A young girl in a blue dress stood gracefully at the courtyard gate, her voice like a warbler''s song.


    The girl had snow-like skin, a gentle and delicate appearance; her dress fluttered in the wind, like light clouds emerging from a mountain.


    "Pleasee in."


    The courtyard gate opened, and a gentle man''s voice invited her in.


    Mu Bingyun walked lightly into the courtyard, noticing some scattered puppet parts.


    Before the stone table sat a young man in white, handsome and refined, who had just set down a teapot and tea cups to signal for her to take a seat.


    Mu Bingyun cautiously sat down, her eyes darting around the room, measuring this elder who appeared to be close to her own age.


    "You may call me Uncle Lan." Lan Chang''an smiled kindly as he looked at the familiar, cold-as-snow face of the young girl. Mu Xiuyun had a gentler demeanor, while Mu Bingyun was slightly more aloof.


    "Senior Lan, my master asked me to convey her gratitude for your kind intentions." Mu Bingyun didn''t change her form of address, showing a polite smile.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t mind the girl''s stubbornness or any prejudice she might have.


    Mu Xiuyun had her disciple deliver the message meant that she had already known: Lan Chang''an had fought for her right to im the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "This jade slip is from my master." Mu Bingyun continued, handing over a jade slip.


    Lan Chang''an took the slip and scanned it with his spiritual sense. It contained a collection of second-rank talisman techniques, including Mu Xiuyun''s lifelong insights and some other talisman masters'' inheritance.


    "Bingyun, please pass on my gratitude to your master. This jade slip will be of great use to me." Lan Chang''an said, expressing a kind lie.


    "Mm," Mu Bingyun murmured, holding the teacup with her bare hands without taking a sip.


    "By the way, when should I visit your master?" Lan Chang''an asked seemingly casually.


    "No...no need! My master said she doesn''t wish to be reminded of the past." Mu Bingyun stammered as if stepping on a nail, fearing that Lan Chang''an might insist on seeing her master despite the obstruction.


    Lan Chang''an understood, Mu Xiuyun didn''t want to face the young and unchanged him. Having her disciple, who resembled her younger self, visit Lan Chang''an was like Mu Xiuyun personally being there.


    "Bingyun, you are very beautiful! Surely you have many admirers." Lan Chang''an praised.


    "I aspire to be a Foundation Establishment cultivator and don''t trust any man." Mu Bingyun''s face turned slightly red, feeling a bit embarrassed being praised by the renowned ancient cultivator.


    Suddenly, she realized Lan Chang''an''spliment wasn''t directed solely at her. She represented her master. To be precise, she represented her master''s younger self.


    Mu Bingyun felt a strange resonance at the sight of this elegant man, whose face bore no trace of age. A sense of mncholy arose in her heart, and the corners of her eyes reddened.


    "Bingyun, I''ll be here for some time. If you have any questions about cultivation or talisman art, feel free to ask me." Lan Chang''an instructed.


    "Yes, Uncle Lan."


    Mu Bingyun finally changed her form of address, responding softly before leaving.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an stood in the courtyard, watching the graceful figure of the departing girl.


    "As you wished, the memories of you in my mind will remain the most beautiful." Lan Chang''an felt at peace, giving up the idea of visiting Mu Xiuyun.


    As someone with a long lifespan, he needed to maintain a transcendent mindset. He could face the long years and countless acquaintances like watching movies, able to immerse himself yet also remain detached.


    He had no regrets towards the Mu Family nor did he owe Mu Xiuyun anything.


    In the Mu Family''s herb garden and at Bamboo Leaf Mountain, he had already altered the course of her destiny twice.


    Lan Chang''an had calcted that Mu Xiuyun''s failed attempt at Foundation Establishment would impact her foundation; even if she consumed a Foundation Establishment Pill in her old age, her chances of sess were slim, and she would likely suffer a great deal of damage to her vitality, which would affect her lifespan.


    Therefore, he left the decision topete for the Foundation Establishment Pill to Mu Xiuyun herself.


    Mu Xiuyun made a rational choice in line with the family''s overall interests, she would continue to shine as a second-rank talisman master within the family, training future generations to carry on her legacy.


    ...


    In the following half a month.


    Mu Bingyun visited two or three times, seeking Lan Chang''an''s guidance on cultivation and talisman art.


    The young girl was very focused, carefully observing Lan Chang''an''s every word and action, like a recorder.


    asionally, she stared at him in a daze, lost in thought.


    During this time, Lan Chang''an gathered information from the Mu Family about nearby spiritual veins and cultivation sites.


    As a cultivator family, the Mu Family kept tabs on such resources.


    In recent years, the number of new cultivators in the Mu Family had surged, and the spiritual veins of Feiyue Lake were barely enough. They also needed new spiritual veins.


    Lan Chang''an obtained the Mu Family''s collected information on spiritual veins.


    "In the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, spiritual veins are scarce resources. Only sects and powerful cultivation families have surplus veins for rent or sale." Lan Chang''an spread out a map and began marking it with a pen.


    "Fox Valley, a second-rank high-grade spiritual vein, owned by the ''me Departing Pce.''"


    Lan Changan''s pen drew a small circle around a spiritual vein point slightly northwest of the center on the cultivation map of the Liang Kingdom.


    "This spiritual vein is neither too close nor too far from Huanglong Immortal City, the Beast Taming Zhou Family, Jin Yun Valley, and me Departing Pce." Lan Chang''an was quite moved.


    Fox Valley''s location suited his preferences. An isted spiritual vein cultivation ground offered more privacy than being in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Safety and convenience were also crucial. Fox Valley belonged to the Nascent Soul-level power me Departing Pce, situated near the heart of the Liang Kingdom, making it safer than those on the borders.


    Its proximity to Huanglong Immortal City, the Zhou Family, and Jin Yun Valley made it easy for Lan Chang''an to obtain cultivation resources and maintain his existingwork of connections and coborations.


    "However, Fox Valley''s rental price is quite high, and the minimum lease is twenty years."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head; even with his current wealth, it would be a strain to afford it. A second-rank high-grade spiritual vein was something even early Foundation Establishment cultivators would consider a luxury.


    "No rush; there are plenty of other options."


    To possess a spiritual vein of one''s own, to cultivate rare spirit nts, raise exotic spirit creatures, refine pills, and draw talismans¡ªthis was a dream many cultivators dared not even dream.


    Half a monthter, Lan Chang''an sensed a disturbance in the spiritual energy of the heavens and earth. Above Moonheart Ind, the spiritual energy slowly gathered, forming an approaching small vortex.


    "It''s about time."


    Lan Chang''an knew that the current family head of the Mu Family was attempting to reach Foundation Establishment, drawing the attention of many.


    Returning to his room, he produced a talisman, into which he poured a drop of blood and some mana. The talisman activated, summoning a white-robed man who sat cross-legged within the room.


    Only up close would it be clear that this white-robed man was an illusion, its aura identical to Lan Chang''an''s.


    "An Illusory Truth Talisman, a second-rank illusion-type talisman."


    Lan Chang''an had informed Li Ergou of his ns to go into seclusion for a few days, requesting not to be disturbed.


    That night, under the cover of darkness, Lan Chang''an slipped out of the Mu Family encampment undetected.

 Chapter 95: One More Look

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    In the night, Lan Chang''an did not fly in the air. Using the Evergreen Technique to conceal his aura, he moved through the mountains and forests.


    By relying on his fleshly body''s speed, devoid of any spiritual energy fluctuations, cultivators under the level of an immortal would find it difficult to detect him.


    Looking back at Feiyue Lake dozens of miles away, the Mu Family had erected a protective barrier around their territory.


    Lan Chang''an climbed to a mountain''s peak, where he sat down cross-legged, merging with the scenery, bing a mere log, fading into obscurity.


    "Wait."


    Next, Lan Chang''an only needed to wait for an opportunity.


    This opportunity might note. But he didn''t care, he had the rest of eternity to spare.


    Breaking through to the Foundation Establishment stage is a process that takes time, varying from person to person.This process gathers the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, it was unavoidable that some disturbance would be caused, especially near the final moment.


    Thismotion is small in scope, not as terrific as the Core Formation Realm.


    Nevertheless, Lan Chang''an was certain the Maple Leaf Huang Family would notice.


    Firstly, the two families were in a standoff, and the Huang Family''s scouts were monitoring every move of Feiyue Lake.


    Secondly, it was hard to guarantee that there were no traitors within the Mu Family, as it was not umon for arge family to have one or two defectors.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    Two dayster, sharp sky-splitting sounds emerged from the southern end of Feiyue Lake, apanied by three powerful auras of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an sensed them from afar.


    One in the mid Foundation Establishment stage and two in the early Foundation Establishment stage. However, without being on the scene, he was unable to ascertain their identities.


    Squeak!


    At Lan Chang''an''smand, the Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from the pet pouch and scurried away underground.


    ...


    Above the skies of Feiyue Lake, three figures hovered in midair, gazing down at Moonheart Ind that was shielded by the n-protecting formation. Their expressions were grave.


    The middle-aged man in in clothes, with a weathered aura and mid Foundation Establishment cultivation, was Huang Tankong, the number one cultivator of the Huang Family.


    The plump beauty in a lotus skirt on his right was named Huang Yingchun, the only female Foundation Establishment cultivator in the Maple Leaf Huang Family.


    The elegant young man in a purple jade robe on the left was Huang Yu, whom Lan Chang''an had seen a few days ago, the young master of the Huang Family from years past.


    "Uncle Tan, ording to our intelligence, the Mu Family cultivator currently undergoing the Foundation Establishment process is most likely the family head, Mu Chengji."


    The beauty in the lotus skirt said coldly as she looked down.


    "The Mu Family currently has no cultivators with high-grade spiritual roots. Without a Foundation Establishment Pill, Mu Chengji wouldn''t have dared to attempt the breakthrough easily." Huang Yu pondered.


    He then asked in confusion, "The key figures of the Mu Family haven''t had the chance to acquire a Foundation Establishment Pill in recent years. Where did they get one? Could it be Lan Chang''an..."


    "That''s possible," Huang Tankong mused.


    "Ordinarily, it would be difficult for a loose cultivator like Lan Chang''an to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill. However, this person has excellent connections and might have helped the Mu Family in this regard."


    "Yingchun, is Lan Chang''an currently in the Mu Family?" Huang Tankong looked at the woman in the lotus skirt.


    "Yes! He has recently been in contact with Mu Xiuyun''s disciple, Mu Bingyun." Huang Yingchun responded without much thought.


    "Tsk, tsk, Lan Chang''an had a questionable rtionship with the Mu Family''s youngdy for a long time and now he''s targeting the young and beautiful maiden? Is he trying to get a taste of tender grass?" Huang Yu sneered, his tone full of mockery. He had heard that Mu Bingyun was the most beautiful young woman among the new generation of the Mu Family.


    "Don''tugh at others when you''re just as bad!" Huang Tankong shot him a cold nce, looking displeased.


    Huang Yu felt embarrassed. He had indeed yed around with many youngdies outside, so he had no right to criticize Lan Chang''an.


    "Whether or not Lan Chang''an brought the Foundation Establishment Pill is no longer important. Firstly, there''s no evidence. Secondly, as long as he doesn''t directly participate in the fight, we have no reason to me him."


    "Uncle Tan, the Mu Family was prepared, and their protection formation is fully activated, making their defenses tight. The three of us alone can''t do much." Huang Yingchun said worriedly.


    The Mu Family secretly obtained a Foundation Establishment Pill and suddenly began the breakthrough process.


    Upon receiving the news, the three Foundation Establishment cultivators came immediately. The main force of the Maple Leaf Huang Family was still some distance from Feiyue Lake and couldn''t arrive quickly.


    "No worries, during the critical moment of Foundation Establishment, the Mu Family won''t dare toe out and fight. We can just harass them from above Moonheart Ind and send people to attack the Mu Family''s surrounding industries." Huang Tankong had a n and remainedposed.


    "Excellent idea."


    Huang Yu and Huang Yingchun exchanged smiles, understanding Huang Tankong''s intentions.


    When attempting to reach Foundation Establishment, one''s state of mind was paramount. Even if they couldn''t break into Moonheart Ind, they would disrupt the process as much as possible to distract the one attempting the breakthrough.


    In the following half day, the three Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Huang Family unleashed powerful spells upon Moonheart Ind''s protective barrier.


    Whoosh! Boom!


    Firestorms, thunderballs, and earth-shaking spells were unleashed in waves, targeting the area of the Foundation Establishment breakthrough.


    The Mu Family had two Foundation Establishment cultivators and many Qi-Refining stage cultivators. With the help of the second-rank n-protecting formation, they naturally weren''t afraid of the three Foundation Establishment attackers.


    The Huang Family''s offensive didn''t cause substantial damage, but Mu Chengji, who was attempting the Foundation Establishment, surely felt the pressure.


    "Chengji! Maintain yourposure. They are just bluffing." Mu Renlong transmitted his voice.


    At this critical juncture, the Mu Family didn''t dare to rush out. Regardless of the number of cultivators, no one in the Mu Family could beat the mid Foundation Establishment cultivator Huang Tankong.


    As long as the Foundation Establishment was sessful, the Mu Family would win this round.


    ...


    On the distant mountain peak.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from the ground and nodded at Lan Chang''an.


    "Huang Yu, as expected, came!" Lan Chang''an smiled, unsurprised.


    When he saw Huang Yu a few days ago, Lan Chang''an had the Earth Burrowing Rat memorize his scent. The rat had just gone underground and detected Huang Yu''s scent within a certain range.


    Now, Lan Chang''an waited patiently for his prey to give him an opportunity.


    Three dayster.


    Above Moonheart Ind, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth rapidly gathered, forming a vortex.


    The breakthrough process reached its most critical point.


    The three Huang Family Foundation Establishment cultivators intensified their assault.


    At this time, more than twentyte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators from the Huang Family arrived and formed a formation tounch a fierce attack on Moonheart Ind.


    The continuous bursts of spell attacks caused the surrounding spiritual energy to be chaotic.


    "The instability of the spiritual environment is bound to have some effect on the Foundation Establishment process." Lan Chang''an murmured to himself.


    Even such a trifling influence was worth pursuing to the Huang Family.


    "It''s crucial to maintain one''sposure when attempting to breakthrough to Foundation Establishment." Lan Chang''an observed silently.


    "Huh! A Foundation Establishment cultivator is moving alone."


    Suddenly, Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred, and he looked towards a direction near Feiyue Lake.


    ...


    "Yu''er, take some people to destroy the Mu Family''s herb gardens and mines." Huang Tankong shouted loudly, deliberately making his voice heard throughout the Mu Family territory.


    "Yes, Uncle Tan."


    Huang Yu''s face lit up with joy as he led fourte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators away. Such tasks usuallye with some benefits.


    Near the Mu Family Residence, there were herb gardens, mines, spiritual fields, and other industries. These were not under the protection of the n-protecting formation. At most, they might have a separate spell formation guarding them.


    Huang Yu first attacked a herb garden, finding that the cultivators had evacuated in advance, leaving onlymon and inexpensive spirit nts behind.


    After rampaging through the garden, his gains remained meager.


    "To the mines." Huang Yu led his men to fly to a mine one hundred li away.


    This was the nearest spiritual mine of the Mu Family. It''s rtively small in scale and only produces a small amount of cold iron ore per day. There was also a workshop at the side for the rough processing of the ore.


    "Ah! Ah!"


    Inside the mine, the elderly cultivator and a dozen mortal miners that were stationed there meet their end at the hands of Huang Yu and his entourage.


    At this moment.


    Whoosh!


    Suddenly, a tremor ran through the vortex of spiritual energy gathered over Feiyue Lake, and like a flood bursting through a dam, copsing in an instant.


    "Hahaha... their Foundation Establishment failed!" Huang Yu''s lips curled up as heughed heartily.


    "You guys continue the destruction!"


    Huang Yu left a few cultivators from his family behind and flew towards Feiyue Lake.


    He wanted to see the faces of those Mu Family cultivators, reveling in their despair and mocking them mercilessly, striking at both their morale and their psyche.


    Just after flying several li, a man dressed in ck robes with long hair emerged from the forest before him.


    "Who?"


    Huang Yu looked wary, examining the man in ck. He had a straight nose and thin lips, but there was an eerie smile on his face.


    A chill ran down Huang Yu''s spine, as the image of a terrifying person surfaced in his mind, and cold sweat started oozing from his forehead.


    "Brat! What are you looking at?" The long-haired man stood with his hands behind his back, his expression unfriendly, a surge of ck demonic aura emanating from his body.


    A wave ofter Foundation Establishment spiritual sense hit Huang Yu, bearing down upon him with oppressive force.


    "Liang Shaotian?!" Huang Yu paled in shock, he hastily activated his protective shield around him and unleashed several defensive magical weapons.


    Boom!


    A sharp pain pierced his mind and body as if he had been cut through by a blunt knife. Dazed, he gasped for breath.


    "spiritual sense attack... Not good!" Huang Yu''s consciousness struggled free just in time to register a powerful assault bearing down on him.


    Crack!


    A slender, pale hand closed around his neck, gently twisting.


    A head, unwilling to leave the mortal ne, tumbled to the ground.


    "Fourth Elder!"


    Several li away at the mine, a few cultivators of the Huang Family who witnessed this scene cried out in terror.


    "It''s Liang Shaotian!"


    A middle-aged man, a cultivator of the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, fled into the mine, terrified.


    Word had it that Liang Shaotian disdained chasing down the weak.


    "Liang Shaotian, why... why would you attack the Huang Family?" An old Huang Familyte Qi-Refining cultivator murmured iprehensibly, his body trembling.


    "Looking for death! Do you dare look upon this venerable one more time?" The long-haired man in ck robes sneered arrogantly.


    "Liang Shaotian" reached out and snatched Huang Yu''s storage pouch, his long hair whipping about wildly as a demonic aura roiled above his head. With ate Foundation Establishment-level spiritual pressure, he flew into the northern mountains and forest.


    In a dozen breaths of time, he disappeared without a trace.


    ...

 Chapter 96: Reversal of the Situation

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    In the mountain gully several hundred li away from Feiyue Lake.


    A ck-robed man with long hairnded beside the stream. A series of bone-cracking sounds echoed as his appearance and physique transformed into a gentle and handsome young man. He took off the long ck wig on his head, ready to discard it, but then reconsidered and stored it in his storage pouch instead.


    Lan Chang''an threw the ck robe stained with demonic energy into the stream and ignited it with a me.


    "A second-rank Demonic Aura Talisman, I suppose not many righteous talisman masters in the Liang Kingdom know how to do this, right? With the control ofte Foundation Establishment spiritual sense, it¡¯s no problem to scare kids."


    "Devil Dao''s cultivators sure have it easy when ites to killing; they don''t need to bother with logic." Lan Chang''an chuckled.


    In the previous life in Great Kun, there was a strange-looking evil cultivator. This evil cultivator once met a female cultivator on the road and exterminated her just because the other person looked at him more than once.


    Another time, the same evil cultivator encountered a male cultivator on the road who didn''t look at him at all. This had displeased him, so he killed him too.


    This is why Lan Chang''an disguised himself as an evil cultivator to murder people. Liang Shaotian, a man of unpredictable nature and notorious in Liang Kingdom, had numerous crimes attributed to him by the sect: rape and murder of female cultivators, extermination of entire families, torture and killing of the elderly and children... the list went on.Anyway, since he had so many crimes, what''s one more? If he had quietly killed Huang Yu, Lan Chang''an felt it wouldn''t be safe; the Huang Family might still link it back to him. But if someone else took the me, it was a different story.


    Lan Chang''an knew some rumors and intelligence about Liang Shaotian. It was said that this scoundrel had acquired a demonic inheritance from thousands of years ago and had also disyed powerful spiritual sense techniques in recent years. His body movement techniques were exceptional, and he had several cases of killing people by twisting their necks at close range.


    The physical techniques within Lan Chang''an''s Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual were simrly speed-oriented, making them highly replicable.


    "The soul imprint of the first life should recover within two months." Lan Chang''an''s consciousness entered the Nine Seal Stele. The first seal contained the dim and lifeless projection of a handsome man.


    Just now, to elevate his spiritual sense to thete Foundation Establishment stage, he had summoned the soul imprint of his first life.


    After advancing to the Foundation Establishment stage, the soul projection of the first life was no longer considered a trump card, merely a temporary boost.


    After all, his current cultivation and methods far exceeded those of his first life. If he could activate the peak Core Formation realm soul imprint of his second life, that would be his true trump card.


    ...


    Feiyue Lake, Mu Family Manor.


    The spiritual vortex above Moonheart Ind suddenly copsed and dispersed. This scene caused both the Mu and Huang Family cultivators to pause. The Huang Family cultivators were ecstatic and ceased their attacks.


    "Haha! The heavens and people abhor the Feiyue Lake Mu Family¡ªthey have exhausted their destiny!" Huang Tankong stood with his hands behind his back, his thickughter echoing through the sky.


    "Ha ha ha... I''ve given you your chance, yet you squander it. A distinguished family head? More like a distinguished pork farmer!" Huang Yingchun, dressed in a lotus skirt, sneered disdainfully at the Mu Family residence below.


    The Mu Family cultivators wore unsightly expressions, rendered speechless. Their morale was low, and they appeared deste.


    "Uncle Renlong, I have let everyone down." A hoarse and weak voice came from the depths of the secret cave dwelling.


    "s, we were too hasty." Mu Renlong sighed in disappointment.


    He had watched the entirety of Mu Chengji''s attempt at reaching Foundation Establishment. The interference from the Huang Family had indeed yed a part in his failure.


    Mu Chengji''s temperament had been unstable, and he had panicked at thest moment, causing his breakthrough to fail.


    Compared to the previous family head, Mu Maode, Mu Chengjicked experience and theposure of a great leader. Moreover, he was under immense psychological pressure.


    This Foundation Establishment Pill embodied the efforts of the entire family and carried the high hopes of the ancestors, including Mu Xiuyun''s voluntary sacrifice.


    Breaking through under such pressure while facing external interference was understandably challenging. The state of one''s mind has a significant influence when breaking through bottlenecks and reaching higher realms.


    When Li Erqing had attempted his own Foundation Establishment, his mental state had been entirely different¡ªhis Foundation Establishment Pill had seemed to him like a lucky chance. Given his natural talent and background, even if his attempt failed, he would have felt no remorse.


    ...


    A series of whooshes sounded near Feiyue Lake.


    "Old ancestor! Something terrible has happened!" Two Huang Family cultivators hurriedly flew over, looking anxious.


    "What''s the point of panicking! One must remain calm in the face of adversity!" Huang Tankong reprimanded them with a stern face. He was in quite a good mood, and wasn''t about to let these two excitable youngsters ruin it.


    "Old ancestor! The Fourth Elder..." One of the cultivators transmitted his voice.


    "What!" Huang Tankong''s expression changed, staring at him in disbelief, his eyes showing a chilling light.


    ...


    Above Moonheart Ind.


    An astonishing scene unfolded for the Mu Family cultivators. Huang Tankong and Huang Yingchun, both Foundation Establishment cultivators, suddenly turned pale, and without a word, led the Huang Family cultivators away in a hurry.


    "What happened to the Huang Family?" The Mu Family cultivators were bewildered,pletely at a loss.


    Mu Renlong and Li Erqing exchanged a nce.


    ...


    A hundred li away from the Mu Family Residence, near a mine area.


    Staring at Huang Yu''s decapitated body, the Huang Family''s two Foundation Establishment ancestors and other high-ranking members had grim expressions. The atmosphere was terrifyingly silent.


    "Are you sure the murderer is Liang Shaotian?" Huang Tankong''s face was dark, his voice harsh, as he looked at the fourte-stage Qi-Refining Huang Family cultivators.


    "Describe every detail of the situation clearly."


    "Yes, Old ancestor." The four Huang Family cultivators recounted the situation in its entirety, leaving out no detail.


    "You said the Fourth Elder was killed instantly, without being able to put up any resistance?" Huang Yingchun''s face turned pale as she questioned in disbelief.


    "Yes, there was no struggle." The four Huang Family cultivators unanimously agreed.


    Huang Tankong and Huang Yingchun looked at each other, unable to hide the shock in their eyes.


    To instantly kill Huang Yu, who was at the third level of Foundation Establishment, with such means, it was clear it wasn''t the Mu Family.


    Huang Tankong, at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, could easily suppress Huang Yu but couldn''t kill him in one strike. Only ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator could do that.


    If the Mu Family had such a powerful cultivator, would they have been suppressed by the Huang Family for so many years? The Mu Family''s focus was on reaching the Foundation Establishment stage; they had no extra energy for anything else.


    "Liang Shaotian publicly appeared a few years ago, he was already at the peak of thete Foundation Establishment stage," Huang Yingchun murmured.


    "Liang Shaotian seemed to have said something before he left," an elderly cultivator hesitated.


    "What did he say!" Huang Tankong''s eyes were sharp as he stared at him.


    "He said, ''Do you dare look upon this venerable one more time?''" The elderly cultivator spoke bitterly.


    The two Foundation Establishment cultivators and the Huang Family members were stunned.


    "Just because someone dared to look at him?" Huang Tankong took a deep breath, veins bulging on his forehead.


    The gathered Huang Family cultivators felt insulted, scorned, and enraged. Beneath it all, they felt profoundly terrified and powerless.


    Such an unpredictable evil cultivator, any whim could lead to a massacre. Huang Yu''s cause of death made everyone¡¯s feet cold, wishing to avoid such a person at all costs.


    "Which direction did Liang Shaotian go after the murder?" Huang Tankong''s face changed again, asking seriously.


    The Huang Family members realized something, feeling uneasy.


    "He went north," the elderly cultivator replied.


    The Huang Family members couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief, their palms sweating. North led to the ck Fog Mountain Range. The Maple Leaf Huang Family was south of Feiyue Lake, not in the same direction.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    The news of Huang Yu''s death reached the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake, lifting their spirits and dispelling the gloom of the failed Foundation Establishment attempt.


    Although the Mu Family didn''t produce a Foundation Establishment cultivator, the Maple Leaf Huang Family lost one, and their youngest at that. The power gap between the two families had thus narrowed.


    Feiyue Manor, Lakeside Courtyard.


    "It''s so lively out there." Lan Chang''an stretchedzily as he heard the cheers outside, then walked out to the courtyard.


    Not long after, Li Erqing came to share the good news.


    Li Erqing knew few details of Huang Yu''s demise; the Maple Leaf Huang Family hadmunicated a unified story, cing the me on Liang Shaotian. The only detail was that the young man had been killed instantly.


    Lan Chang''an, upon inquiry, secretlyughed.


    Neither the Huang Family nor the Mu Family could have imagined that the true murderer was an ancient old man who had just entered the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    ording tomon sense, an elderly man reaching Foundation Establishment would not only have low potential but also weakerbat powerpared to a younger Foundation Establishment cultivator. The Huang Family never suspected Lan Chang''an.


    Furthermore, Lan Chang''an had fabricated an alibi for himself. The Illusory Truth Talisman within his room would have gone undetected unless a Foundation Establishment cultivator walked in to inspect it closely.


    The Huang Family''s spy in the Mu Family reported that Lan Chang''an had stayed within the Mu Family''s territory recently.


    "It''s funny that a Foundation Establishment cultivator in the Huang Family was killed, yet they dare only to feign condemnation, too afraid to even speak harshly." Li Erqing mocked, "Young Huang Family cultivators spoke out in righteous indignation, only to be silenced with a warning and forbidden from speaking further on the matter."


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes shed, guessing that the Huang Family was deeply frightened by the phrase "do you dare look upon this venerable one more time?"


    After Li Erqing left, Lan Chang''an checked the loot in his storage pouch, smiling broadly.


    Before returning to the Mu Family, he had cleaned out Huang Yu''s storage pouch, removing anything suspicious. The former young master of the Huang Family contributed over two thousand spirit stones and three superior-grade magical weapons, all top-notch.


    In addition, there was a host of other magical weapons, pills, talismans, materials, and other misceneous goods.


    Along with the selling of the Foundation Establishment Pill for five thousand spirit stones, his wealth had now skyrocketed.


    ...

 Chapter 97: Investigating Spiritual Veins

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    With ample spiritual stones at hand, Lan Chang''an had the confidence to pursue superior-grade second-rank spirit wood and implement the Treasure Talisman Project.


    "If Life Extension Pills are avable, I''ll buy them, but I''ll need to disguise my identity."


    First-rank Life Extension Pills asionally appear in various market auctions, and they are not difficult to find if one puts in the effort. Second-rank Life Extension Pills, however, are much rarer and only appear atrge auctions.


    "A top superior-grade defensive magical weapon, I can get one." Lan Chang''an pondered.


    Using top superior-grade magical weapons at the early stage of Foundation Establishment wouldn''t be a problem.


    With his strong spiritual sense and the longsting vitality of the Evergreen Technique, buying one for self-defense is not an issue.


    ...


    At Feiyue Lake, Lan Chang''an had no significant matters left.He had helped the Mu Family purchase second-rank spirit beasts, brought them Foundation Establishment Pills, and killed Young Master Huang... He had done a lot for the Mu Family.


    As for Mu Xiuyun, they had been lovers for several years at Bamboo Leaf Mountain, though their rtionship had been ndestine. They parted amicably, without any expectation of a future together


    In this life, Lan Chang''an viewed romantic rtionships lightly, if he encountered a situation where he could help with ease, he wouldn''t object.


    Ordinary Foundation Establishment Pills and inferior ones are not much different from poison for Mu Xiuyun, who is over seventy and has failed at her attempt to reach Foundation Establishment once.


    The chances of sess at Foundation Establishment at her age were already slim, and failing once more would be like adding frost to snow.


    Lan Chang''an''s presence has already changed her fate from dying young.


    At least she can die naturally, exerting her residual heat as a second-rank talisman master within the family, and cultivate a sessor to her mantle, she had already surpassed most cultivators to reach this point.


    If she fails Foundation Establishment again at this age, the risk will be enormous, leading to rapid aging and drastically reducing her lifespan.


    ...


    Young Master Huang had died only a short while ago, so Lan Chang''an decided to remain in the Mu Family for another two months to avoid arousing suspicion. While there, he would also offer some guidance to Mu Bingyun and Mu Ershun.


    Mu Ershun, who had recently returned to the family, had paid Lan Chang''an a visit to present him with some medicinal supplements as a token of respect.


    "Your Uncle Lan is not yet at the stage where he needs supplements." Lan Chang''an criticized the young man with a stern face but still epted his goodwill.


    ...


    On the seventh day after Huang Yu''s death.


    Jin Yun Valley''sw enforcement cultivators came near the Mu Family to investigate Liang Shaotian''s whereabouts.


    Three Foundation Establishment cultivators came, including one at thete stage. One of them was Zhang Tieshan.


    Knowing that Lan Chang''an was at Feiyue Lake, Zhang Tieshan made a special visit.


    In thekeside courtyard.


    Lan Chang''an weed the slightly dark-skinned, stern-faced Foundation Establishment youth into his house.


    "Brother Lan, hearing about your Foundation Establishment at seventy, Zhang admires you greatly. Unfortunately, I wasn''t in Huanglong Immortal City that day and couldn''t congratte you sooner." Zhang Tieshan sighed as he sat down.


    He brought a congrattory gift, a piece of second-rank demonic beast hide.


    "Brother Zhang, are you here to capture Liang Shaotian?" Lan Chang''an asked curiously.


    "Brother Lan overestimates this Zhang." Zhang Tieshan shook his head with a bitter smile.


    "Liang Shaotian has already grown formidable; it would take at least a Fake-Dan Immortal to deal with him. We are just here to gather intelligence."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised. Liang Shaotian''s meteoric rise had exceeded many people''s expectations. However, he had always possessed great fortune, and he was at least ten years older than Lan Chang''an.


    When Lan Chang''an was at the fourthyer of Qi-Refining at twenty-seven, Liang Shaotian was already a slightly famous early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Brother Zhang holds an important position in Jin Yun Valley. Are you familiar with the spiritual vein fields leased by your sect?" Lan Chang''an took the opportunity to inquire about the spiritual vein fields.


    "Oh, Brother Lan is interested in this?" Zhang Tieshan was a bit surprised.


    Renting a spiritual vein field is even more expensive than renting a house in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Although the spiritual veins in Huanglong Immortal City are good, they are slightly tainted by mundane influences.


    Certain Foundation Establishment cultivators with a name to protect preferred to cultivate in more refined environments, so they chose to rent private spiritual vein fields.


    Lan Chang''an, being a talisman master for many years and having killed the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle, had umted substantial wealth.


    With this in mind, Zhang Tieshan understood.


    He took out a jade slip and informed Lan Chang''an of the relevant information.


    The spiritual vein information provided by Zhang Tieshan was limited to Jin Yun Valley for ess and was more detailed, including some insider information. For example, the advantages and disadvantages of various spiritual vein fields and any hidden secrets behind them.


    ...


    "Brother Lan, there is a mid-grade second-rank spiritual vein that would be perfect for you." Zhang Tieshan thought for a moment and suggested.


    "Oh, which one is it?"


    "That mid-grade spiritual vein isn''t in the information I just gave you because it currently has an owner. Originally rented by three Foundation Establishment cultivators, one of them met with an ident, leaving a vacancy." Zhang Tieshan exined.


    "Three Foundation Establishment cultivators sharing a field?" Lan Chang''an hesitated.


    A mid-grade second-rank spiritual vein would indeed meet his requirements.


    Lan Chang''an intended to rent the field for long-term use, as he nned to stay and cultivate for at least several decades. Sharing a site with others hadn''t even crossed his mind.


    "The mid-grade spiritual vein is located in Wuqi Mountain. This mountain has three main peaks, each separated by five or six li, with a Foundation Establishment cultivator residing on each peak."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an''s interest was piqued.


    Three peaks could amodate three individuals, cultivating independently without interference. The cost of renting the spiritual vein field would be significantly less. At the same time, security would be more assured.


    With three Foundation Establishment cultivators stationed, they could look out for each other, no random group of evil cultivators would dare cause trouble.


    The premise was that the other two Foundation Establishment cultivators had no issues with the new entry''s background.


    "What are the backgrounds of the two Foundation Establishment cultivators in Wuqi Mountain?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "These two Foundation Establishment cultivators have clear backgrounds: one is an alchemist, the other a formation master. Originally, there was also an artifact refiner but he died exploring a cave, leaving a vacancy."


    Zhang Tieshan introduced with a smile.


    "This vacancy isn''t open to just any Foundation Establishment cultivator. One must possess second-rank skills and be approved by the other two peak masters to rent the third peak."


    So it was essentially a craftsmen''s alliance?


    Lan Chang''an understood why Zhang Tieshan said it suited him.


    Three craftsmen''s Foundation Establishment cultivators on the same spiritual vein field, each with their own needs, could create a certain synergy. For instance, a cultivator seeking pills at Wuqi Mountain might conveniently buy some of Lan Chang''an''s talismans.


    "Where is Wuqi Mountain located?"


    Lan Chang''an took out a map and analyzed the geographical location under Zhang Tieshan''s guidance.


    Wuqi Mountain,pared to the high-grade spiritual vein "Fox Valley" that Lan Chang''an had considered earlier, was only a few hundred li apart.


    Located in the central region of Liang Kingdom, slightly to the northwest, it is neither too close nor too far from Huanglong Immortal City, Jin Yun Valley, the Beast Taming Zhou Family, and Feiyue Lake.


    The geographical location naturally satisfied Lan Chang''an. A mid-grade second-rank spiritual vein met his requirements. Lan Chang''an needed to investigate the situation in person.


    Before leaving, Zhang Tieshan left Lan Chang''an with a letter of rmendation.


    This was the advantage of having connections within the sect.


    In the vast cultivation world, ordinary cultivators would struggle to ess such resource information in a timely manner.


    ...


    In the blink of an eye, Lan Chang''an had spent another two months at Feiyue Lake.


    During this time, besides guiding Mu Bingyun and Mu Ershun, he devoted more of his energy to delving into the puppetry inheritance.


    Using the materials he had, Lan Chang''an barely crafted a low-grade first-rank humanoid puppet.


    This humanoid puppet was full of patches, ragged and unsightly. Its battle prowess was limited to bullying ordinary humans.


    Even so, Lan Chang''an''s talent in puppetry was impressive, considering he''d reached this point in less than three months.


    Now, he had stepped into the door of a first-rank puppeteer.


    Lan Chang''an''s alchemy skills, which he had studied for decades, were still stuck at superior-grade first-rank.


    ...


    After bing a first-rank puppeteer, Lan Chang''an no longer lingered and bid farewell to the Mu Family.


    "Take care, big brother!" Li Erqing, with moist eyes, and his son Mu Ershun, saw him off to Feiyue Lake.


    "No need to see me off any further. We are both Foundation Establishment cultivators with long lives ahead, and we will meet again." Lan Chang''an waved his hand, stepped onto his flying boat, and rode the wind away.


    In the sky, Lan Chang''an nced at the distant shrubbery.


    In the shrubbery.


    Within the shrubbery, a young girl in a green dress, with starry eyes and snow-white teeth, silently watched the white-robed young man depart.


    "Uncle Lan, take care." Mu Bingyun murmured, her red lips parting slightly. A hint of mncholy and loss crept between her lonely, towering brows.


    In just two or three months, that seemingly timeless, serene white-robed man had left a deep impression on her heart.


    Mu Bingyun recalled her master''s words: He was different from the men of his age at that time.


    During their time together, Mu Bingyun had felt no heaviness or stuffiness of an elderly person or a Foundation Establishment cultivator from Lan Chang''an. On the contrary, regardless of whether it was in appearance, body, or temperament, this Uncle Lan seemed more like a peer than an ancestor, amiable and pleasing to the eye.


    Even his bearing and poise transcended the level of young people.


    "Master, if you hadn''t chosen to stay with the family many years ago, would things have turned out differently?"


    ...


    Lan Chang''an headed east. Over the next two months, he inspected potential spiritual vein fields that could be leased or purchased, but most fell short of his expectations.


    One small, mid second-rank spiritual vein field was reasonably priced but the location was rather remote, with no nearby cultivator families or marketces, and was a bit distant from the Huanglong Immortal City.


    On this day, Lan Chang''an approached the hearnd of Liang Kingdom, arriving at Wuqi Mountain, which Zhang Tieshan had rmended.


    "A mid-sized, mid second-rank spiritual vein field," Lan Chang''an murmured, gazing at the hazy mountains before him and feeling the potent spiritual energy surging beneath the earth.


    At the center of the mountain range stood three peaks, their shapes arranged in a triangr pattern.


    Lan Chang''an wove through the clouds and mist, entering the picturesque Wuqi Mountain and heading straight for those three peaks at its core.


    Swoosh!


    From the other side of Wuqi Mountain, a burly man with a full beard stepped out onto an iron leaf flying boat and flew toward him.


    An early Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "That''s him?" Lan Chang''an took only a nce before recognizing the neer.


    "I''m Gu Lai, a mid-grade second-rank artifact refiner. What is this Fellow Daoist''s name?" the gnarly bearded man said with hands cupped in greeting, narrowing his eyes slightly as he surveyed Lan Chang''an.


    ...

 Chapter 98: Unexpected Selection

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Decades ago, Lan Chang''an epted Zhao Siyao''smission to go to the Five Peaks Market Town to repair the top superior-grade magical weapon, the Iron Trellis Umbre.


    The artifact refiner responsible for repairing the magical weapon was Master Gu Lai.


    At that time, Gu Lai was a second-rank low-grade artifact refiner who had not yet advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage.


    "So it''s Master Gu, a pleasure to meet you. I am Lan Chang''an, a wandering second-rank talisman master." Lan Chang''an greeted back.


    Back then, he had disguised his appearance when he sought out the artifact refiner Gu Lai for help. Thus, Gu Lai failed to recognize him.


    "A second-rank talisman master? Could it be that Fellow Daoist Lan also wants topete for the position of the third peak?" Gu Lai''s eyes shed.


    "Just trying my luck."


    Lan Chang''an felt strange in his heart, not expecting the master who had helped him with refining would be hispetitor.It seemed that he might not be able topete against him. On the surface, in terms of cultivation, skills, and experience, Lan Chang''an trailed behind Gu Lai.


    Gu Lai had a third-level Foundation Establishment cultivation, was a second-rank middle-grade artifact refiner, and was actually older than Lan Chang''an, having umted deep experience in the Five Peaks Market Town.


    "No matter, let uspete fairly." Gu Lai smiled calmly, clearly having some confidence.


    One of the former peak masters who perished in Wuqi Mountain while exploring a cave seeking for treasures, had also been an artifact refiner.


    "Do you two seniors have any needs? I am Lan Lin, the steward of Wuqi Mountain." A graceful female cultivator came forward, bowing respectfully.


    "I am here to see ''Fairy Shi'' and ''Alchemist Lin'' to rent the vacant third peak." Gu Lai stroked his beard and said.


    "The same for me." Lan Chang''an smiled faintly, his expression unchanged.


    "Alchemist Lin and Fairy Shi are both at the Little Pill Peak, I will take you there." Lan Lin smiled and led the way ahead.


    The three flew to the tallest peak, and Lan Lin held up a token, passing through the formation.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that two of the main peaks each had their own protective formations.


    ...


    The female cultivator Lan Lin led the two to a side hall of the Little Pill Peak.


    Inside the hall, three people were seated.


    In the main seats sat a red-faced elder and a simple and elegant female cultivator.


    The red-faced elder had a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation, wore a wide robe, had a full forehead, and sharp eyes, exuding an aura of authority.


    The female cultivator, who looked to be around twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, with her hair elegantly tied up,posed and graceful, not stunningly beautiful but refined and elegant, with a serene charm.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that these two were Alchemist Lin and Fairy Shi, the two peak masters of Wuqi Mountain.


    "Manrong, we were once husband and wife. Even if we have long been separated, don''t you have any old feelings left?" A middle-aged man with swollen eyes and a cor on his head sat at the lower end.


    "Chen Sheng! Your talisman skills are barely at the low second-rank. How dare you think of bringing your family to reside in Wuqi Mountain? Among thosepeting for the third peak, there are those with mid-grade second-rank skills. You are not deserving." Shi Manrong''s tone light and steady, graceful andposed.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an and Gu Lai entered the hall.


    "Ah, Fellow Daoist Gu, you''vee." Shi Manrong stood up apologetically and greeted.


    This female formation master had an elegant and slender figure, her legs long and shapely; beneath her mature beauty, she exuded an alluring charm.


    "I have long heard of Master Gu''s name. And this Fellow Daoist is?" Alchemist Lin, the red-faced elder, stroked his beard and smiled, looking at Lan Chang''an.


    Shi Manrong''s clear eyes also fell on this unfamiliar young man in white.


    "I am Lan Chang''an, a second-rank talisman master and a loose cultivator from Huanglong Immortal City." Lan Chang''an cupped his hands and said.


    "Lan Chang''an? Huanglong Immortal City?"


    Alchemist Lin seemed to recall something, his eyes suddenly brightening.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, could you be that rumored ancient Foundation Establishment cultivator?"


    Upon hearing this, Shi Manrong, Gu Lai, and the middle-aged man all looked at Lan Chang''an in surprise.


    "Indeed, it is me," Lan Chang''an replied calmly.


    "I couldn''t recognize you earlier, Fellow Daoist," Gu Lai said in surprise, revealing a kind smile.


    To the cultivators of the Liang Kingdom, the tale of ancient Foundation Establishment was an amusing anecdote. Yet, as it had no bearing on their own interests, after the initial excitement died down, few paid it any mind. As time passed, memories of this event faded from their minds. If not for Alchemist Lin''s mention, none of the cultivators present would have guessed that this youthful-looking cultivator was rted to the ancient age Foundation Establishment story.


    "Please take a seat, both of you."


    Alchemist Lin, whose full name was Lin Ye, was the owner of Little Pill Peak, a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, and a second-rank superior-grade alchemist.


    The middle-aged man with the cor was Chen Sheng, Formation Master Shi Manrong''s ex-husband.


    "Chen Sheng, we have guests to attend to. Wuqi Mountain does not wee you!" Lin Ye waved his hand impatiently, dismissing the man.


    ...


    In the side hall, after a brief exchange, they got to the main topic.


    "We know of Fellow Daoist Gu''s skills. May I ask, what grade of talisman master is Fellow Daoist Lan?" Shi Manrong''s eyes were as clear as a spring.


    Lan Chang''an realized that this graceful and serene female formation master might have some acquaintance with Gu Lai.


    "Fairy Shi, although I advanced to Foundation Establishment not long ago, I became a low-grade second-rank talisman master many years ago. Now, I am on the threshold of middle-grade second-rank and hope to achieve that within ten years." Lan Chang''an spoke with humility and confidence.


    If he disyed middle second-rank skills now, it would not match his past progress and would seem suspicious. Moreover, even with middle second-rank skills, he might not be able to outdo Gu Lai.


    Shi Manrong nodded, not requiring Lan Chang''an to demonstrate his skills.


    His abilities were on par with her expectations, even if he had exaggerated them slightly. Regardless, his cultivation, skill, and experience still fell short of those of the Artifact Refiner Gu Lai.


    Shi Manrong and Lin Ye exchanged a nce,municating silently.


    "Fellow Daoists, how about waiting a few days at Wuqi Mountain? We will be discussing the matter shortly and select one of you to be the third peak''s master." Alchemist Lin Ye suggested.


    "Alright." Lan Chang''an and Gu Lai had no objections.


    The two were amodated in guest rooms at Little Pill Peak.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an did not have much hope and was waiting out of courtesy.


    ...


    Seven dayster.


    Five Foundation Establishment cultivators with skills gathered in the main hall of Little Pill Peak.


    Lan Chang''an and Gu Lai were among them.


    Lin Ye and Shi Manrong sat in the main seats.


    "After much deliberation with Fairy Shi, we have decided to let Fellow Daoist Lan jointly lease the third peak." Lin Ye announced the result calmly.


    Lan Chang''an was surprised; he hadn''t expected himself to be chosen. Among these five, his skill and cultivation level were decidedly middle-of-the-road.


    "Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Lan." Gu Lai and the other three congratted him.


    None of them showed dissatisfaction or questioned the decision.


    Lin Ye and Shi Manrong must have their reasons for choosing Lan Chang''an.


    They were all Foundation Establishment cultivators with second-rank skills, not differing too much, and it was only a leasing right of a spiritual vein field.


    Lan Chang''an was puzzled:pared to the other four, he had no advantage except for his appearance. Ancient foundation establishment story might earn some prestige, but Lin Ye and Shi Manrong were both loose cultivators, more inclined to pursue practical benefits.


    An elderly Foundation Establishment implied lower potential, and less future achievement than younger Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t understand their decision, but he didn''t waste too much energy on it either. He trusted that he''d eventually learn their reasoning after moving to Wuqi Mountain.


    ...


    Gu Lai and the other Foundation Establishment cultivators took their leave.


    Lin Ye and Shi Manrong took Lan Chang''an to the vacant third main peak.


    From above, Lan Chang''an saw that the third main peak was much lower than the other two.


    The peak was less steep, rtively t and wide, with arger actualnd area.


    At the top was a cave mansion left by the previous owner.


    Outside was arge pool covering ten mu (approximately 1.65 acres), conspicuous with some rust marks, likely used for washing and smoothening magical weapons.


    "Is Fellow Daoist Lan satisfied?" Alchemist Lin Ye asked.


    "I have no objections."


    Lan Chang''an surveyed around, finding the spiritual vein environment stable, the area spacious, suitable for gardening and raising pets.


    Without any hesitation, he signed a spirit contract with the two Foundation Establishment cultivators and paid a deposit in spirit stones.


    A spirit contract was a legally binding agreement backed by personal mana imprints; it was not enforceable but served as a credible document nheless.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, after you settle in, I will invite a cultivator from Jin Yun Valley over. At that time, we three can sign a new lease contract." Lin Ye added.


    Lan Chang''an nodded. He had connections in Jinyun Valley, so he wasn''t concerned about the other two parties pulling any tricks.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, since you will be the master of this main peak, how about giving it a name?" Shi Manrong elegantly smiled and suggested.


    Lan Chang''an epted her suggestion.


    Lin Ye''s peak was named Pill Peak. Shi Manrong''s peak was named Xiao Pan Peak.


    "Since this peak is rtively short and t, how about we call it ''Little Turtle Peak''?" Lan Chang''an''s gaze fell on therge pond, then quickly settled on a name.


    "Little Turtle Peak?"


    Lin Ye and Shi Manrong blinked, but they didn''tment. It was a perfectly eptable name for a mountain peak.


    "Then congrattions, Fellow Daoist Lan, on bing the master of Little Turtle Peak," the other two said in unison, offering their congrattions.


    ...


    The Little Turtle Peak before their eyes was, at present, a raw and unfinished product. Thete artifact refiner''s heirs and acquaintances had stripped the peak of its most valuable items, including the protective formation, leaving behind an empty mountain draped in greenery.


    Lan Chang''an would need to make some arrangements before he officially moved in. Fortunately, he had already nned a trip back to the Huanglong Immortal City to purchase high-end magical weapons, Life Extension Pills, and materials for talismans, as well as to arrange for his next coboration with the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    At that time, on the way, he would bring Guan Qiaozhi over to help take care of this mountain peak.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, if you need assistance setting up a protective formation for Little Turtle Peak, you may call upon me. My prices are quite reasonable, and I can provide aprehensive n." Shi Manrong''s graceful and plump figure soared through the air, and she looked back with a smile, her voice melodious and gentle.

 Chapter 99: Shopping Spree

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Watching the graceful and serene female formation master walk away, Lan Chang''an recalled information about Shi Manrong.


    This fairy, Shi Manrong, was a genius in formations, achieving the second-rank superior-grade level in just a few decades.


    The path of formations is profound and obscure, more challenging than talismans and alchemy, requiring extremely high talent.


    Talismans and formations share somemon ground.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had some knowledge of formations, with second-rank formation mastery, though not specialized.


    Lan Chang''an knew a bit about Shi Manrong¡¯s background.


    She came from a now-destroyed cultivation family in the Liang Kingdom.


    Due to a marriage agreement, she was adopted by the Chen Family of cultivators;ter, their rtionship broke down, and she left her husband and family, sessfully building her foundation outside.The middle-aged man driven away earlier, Chen Sheng, was Shi Manrong¡¯s ex-husband.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t know the details of their dispute.


    Judging by Shi Manrong¡¯s elegant demeanor and speech, she seemed like a virtuous and gracious wife, but why their rtionship broke down and she established her own path outside was a mystery.


    ...


    While surveying the terrain of Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an had a rough n in mind.


    First, a protective mountain Formation was indispensable.


    It concerned his own safety and couldn¡¯t be entirely entrusted to others.


    Only after this would he transform the cave mansion, nt spiritual flowers and exotic herbs, and raise pets.


    The herbs should ideally be those that be more valuable with age.


    Several dayster.


    Lan Chang''an left Wuqi Mountain, flying towards Huanglong Immortal City.


    Wuqi Mountain was roughly halfway between Jin Yun Valley and Huanglong Immortal City in a straight line.


    This time, he sped up a bit, reaching Huanglong Immortal City in just over half a month.


    ...


    In the inner city, at Water Moon Residence.


    ¡°Senior Brother, you¡¯re back.¡±


    A light and graceful girl in a robe greeted him with a slightly choked sweet voice.


    After half a year, Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s delicate and pure face showed a mix of resentment and longing, making her look pitiful.


    Lan Chang''an released the Profound Water Turtle.


    The turtle, familiar with Guan Qiaozhi, cutely stretched out its head, rubbing against her robe and legs.


    ¡°That tickles,¡± Guan Qiaozhiughed, breaking her gloom.


    ¡°Brother Lan, the Profound Water Turtle grows so slowly. When can it be a mount? I read in ancient books that ancient giant turtles were massive enough to carry an entire immortal city.¡±


    Guan Qiaozhi asked curiously.


    ¡°A mount? It¡¯ll take several more years,¡±


    Lan Chang''an nced at the Profound Water Turtle, which was about the size of an iron pot.


    Its shell would need to be at least half a zhang wide tofortably carry a person, right?


    As for the kind of giant turtle that could carry an immortal city, it was likely a descendant of true spirit bloodlines, which the Profound Water Turtle with its earthly bloodline couldn¡¯t match.


    That day, Lan Chang''an enjoyed afortable bath with the skillful service of his concubine.


    ...


    The next day, Lan Chang''an went to Jin Yun Valley¡¯s base and met Zhao Siyao.


    ¡°Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Zhao, on advancing to the mid-Foundation Establishment stage.¡±


    When they met, Zhao Siyao was in high spirits, radiant and beautiful, her bearing confident and poised. She had broken through the period of stagnation and taken a solid step forward in Foundation Establishment.


    Given Zhao Siyao¡¯s aptitude, this progress was quite good.


    Her spiritual roots were close to high grade, and she had established her foundation twenty-six or twenty-seven years before Lan chang''an.


    She had been stuck at the third level of the Foundation Establishment stage for ten years, only breaking through two months ago.


    In the sect, without following the routine, she went out to temper herself and seek opportunities, thus slightly speeding up her progress.


    ¡°Without progress, there¡¯s no hope for me to form a Core in this life. Any ckness could mean being overtaken by Fellow Daoist Lan in the future.¡±


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s beautiful eyes sparkled with light, and she smiled charmingly, exuding an air of peerless beauty.


    For ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators, reaching thete Foundation Establishment stage before a hundred years old offered a chance to advance to the Core Formation Realm in their lifetime.


    ¡°Not at all. I''d be quite content if I could just catch up to Fellow Daoist Zhao.¡± Lan chang''an quipped modestly.


    Zhao Siyao smiled at him, saying nothing.


    ¡°By the way, Fellow Daoist Lan, I have news. Fu Xuemei¡¯s younger brother, Fu Dong, sessfully established his foundation a few months ago.¡±


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an was astonished.


    With inferior spiritual roots, even with a superior Foundation Establishment Pill, the chances of sess were slim.


    Normal mid-grade spiritual roots might not enhance the chances of establishing a foundation but at least it wouldn¡¯t hinder it either.


    Inferior spiritual roots, belonging to spiritual roots that didn''t enter the grading, would see the effects of a Foundation Establishment Pill halved at the least.


    He then learned that besides the superior Foundation Establishment Pill, Fu Xuemei also sought a treasure from her master, Huanglong Immortal, to aid her brother.


    ¡°Miss Fu asked me to give you this token of gratitude,¡± Zhao Siyao took out a small jade box.


    ¡°Another gift?¡± Lan Chang''an thought, Fu Xuemei must be in high spirits after fulfilling her long-cherished wish, sending a token of gratitude.


    Opening the jade box, inside was a spiritual peach emitting a fragrance that stirred his Evergreen mana.


    ¡°A Five-Life Peach, Fu Xuemei is quite thoughtful." Lan Chang''an was moved.


    This spiritual peach could extend life by five years.


    At the bottom of the jade box was a silver token engraved with a yellow dragon.


    ¡°This is a VIP token for Huanglong Pavilion. It offers discounts and ess to restricted resources in the affiliated shops of Huanglong Immortal City.¡±


    Zhao Siyao recognized it, eximing in surprise.


    Huanglong Pavilion was the official business of Huanglong Immortal City, running numerous shops that sold high-quality and high-priced goods.


    ...


    ¡°What is Fu Xuemei¡¯s intention?¡±


    Lan Chang''an epted the gift and returned to Water Moon Residence, pondering.


    Given Fu Xuemei¡¯s status, she had no need to curry favor with or fear offending an elderly Foundation Establishment cultivator like him.


    She was much younger than Zhao Siyao. She had also advanced to the mid-Foundation Establishment stage two years ago, despite being held back by her brother.


    From the public opinion in Huanglong Immortal City, Fu Xuemei was aloof but had no evil deeds, reportedly having helped orphans in the outer city.


    To Lan chang''an, aside from obstructing his path, she seemed trustworthy.


    To date, the gifts she had sent were worth at least as much as the superior Foundation Establishment Pill, not counting the favor she owed him.


    ¡°There are two possibilities.¡±


    ¡°First, she wishes to ce herself on a pedestal, to put on a show for outsiders. If I retaliate against her in the future, those unaware of the truth will view me as an ingrate.¡±


    ¡°Second, she might feel a bit guilty for swapping my Foundation Establishment Pill for her brother, thus offering some gifts aspensation.¡±


    Lan Chang''an leaned toward the first possibility, but human nature wasplex; perhaps both exnations held some truth.


    Such tactics were meaningless to Lan Chang''an. He was not some hot-blooded youth who reveled in exacting revenge in broad daylight. To him, the best way to settle debts was from the shadows¡ªonly fools exposed themselves in the open.


    ...


    In his room, Lan Chang''an took out the Five-Life Peach.


    Confirming it was fine, he ate it in a few bites, savoring the fresh sweetness on his tongue.


    ¡°Life extended by eight years.¡± Lan Chang''an smiled.


    Spiritual peaches, including Five-Life Peaches, were main ingredients for crafting Life Extension Pills.


    Having previously consumed first-rank Life Extension Pills, he didn¡¯t achieve double the lifespan extension, but the effect exceeded expectations.


    ¡°In the Foundation Establishment stage, my lifespan now reaches three hundred ny years." Lan chang''an felt content.


    ...


    Huanglong Immortal City would host its nextrge-scale auction in half a year''s time.


    Lan Chang''an nned to attend the auction before heading to Wuqi Mountain.


    In the following six months, Lan Chang''an was busy procuring supplies.


    First, a protective formation for Little Turtle Peak. Lan Chang''an nned on using a design from his previous lifetime.


    Second, he bought seeds and seedlings of spiritual grains and herbs.


    Third, he needed materials for puppets. Lan Chang''an had a natural talent for puppetry, and with his enhanced spiritual sense, found it even more suited to him than talismans.


    He set a goal for himself: to be a second-rank puppet master within twenty years.


    These three types of procurement were not difficult in Huanglong Immortal City.


    With the VIP token from Huanglong Pavilion, he could ess some restricted resources.


    For the three other resources he desired, more effort was needed.


    These were second-rank superior-grade spiritual wood, top magical weapons, and Life Extension Pills.


    Fortunately, with therge auction approaching, shops in Huanglong Immortal City showcased many rare items.


    ...


    Half a month before the auction.


    Lan Chang''an left arge magical weapon shop affiliated with Huanglong Pavilion, warmly seen off by the Foundation Establishment stage shopkeeper.


    Lan Chang''an returned satisfied.


    Back at Water Moon Residence, he took out a five-foot-long golden bell artifact.


    ¡°Supreme-grade magical weapon ¡®Vajra Bell¡¯, which can form a transparent golden shield all-round the user. It can also transform into arge bell to trap enemies, with sound waves that can shake the blood and qi of ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators.¡±


    The Vajra Bell leaned towards defense and trapping enemies, with a sound wave attack as a supplement, it was considered a powerful weapon among its grade.


    Moreover, it cost significantly more than the offensive weapon auctioned off at the Bamboo Leaf Mountain auction years ago.


    For this purchase, Lan Chang''an spent over two thousand spirit stones. Without the Huanglong Pavilion''s VIP pass, it would have been difficult to procure such an item.


    Lan Chang''an privately tested the Vajra Bell. Other than the high consumption of mana, he was satisfied with its performance. As long as it wasn''t damaged, such a supreme-grade magical weapon could serve him until thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    In the final days before the auction, Lan Chang''an concealed his identity and slipped away to wander Huanglong Immortal City''s various shops. He even attended private trade fairs organized by other Foundation Establishment cultivators within the city.


    Unfortunately, he was unable to find any second-rank superior-grade spirit wood.


    However, he did manage to acquire two Life Extension Pills under different aliases.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an had consumed three Life Extension Pills, which had extended his lifespan by ten, eight, and six years, respectively. The two he collected this time extended his lifespan by another five years.


    395 years of lifespan in Foundation Establishment Realm, he was nearing the four-hundred-year mark!


    "All I need now is some second-rank superior-grade spirit wood."


    Lan Chang''an''s shopping spree had beenrgely sessful, save for this final item. His heart remained set on procuring that treasure talisman ingredient, he pinned his hopes on the uing auction to get lucky.

 Chapter 100: Obtaining the Spirit Bamboo

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Several dayster.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao agreed to attend therge auction held once every few years in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an had attended an auction of this scale before, back when he was still in the Qi-Refining stage.


    At the auction, the auction floor had been filled withte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators and Fake-Dan Immortals. He watched the whole time, not daring to participate in the bidding.


    "The highest cultivator at therge auctions of Huanglong Immortal City is generally a Fake-Dan Immortal, at most an early-stage Core Formation cultivator joining in for fun."


    Lan Chang''an was well aware of this and was certain that he would be safe as long as he didn''t recklessly deploy his spiritual sense. Ordinary Core Formation cultivators wouldn''t notice anything unusual about him.


    The auction was held in the central hall of the inner city.


    "Senior, please move to the ck-Level VIP pavilion."After Lan Chang''an showed the Huanglong Pavilion VIP token, a tall female cultivator respectfully led the way.


    The organizer of the auction was Huanglong Mountain.


    The ck-level VIP pavilion was like a half-suspended pavilion, amodating five or six people with maids serving them throughout.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao sat side by side, dressed in white clothes and skirts, with excellent image and temperament.


    To those unaware, they might think the two were a couple.


    "Senior Sister Zhao."


    "Fairy Zhao."


    Passing Foundation Establishment cultivators from the sect greeted Zhao Siyao.


    "Fairy Jade Moon?"


    Lan Chang''an''s senses were sharp. Even without releasing his spiritual sense, he vaguely heard some discussions.


    Zhao Siyao was quite famous, not only in Jin Yun Valley but also well-known in the middle-tier circle of Liang Kingdom sects.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, if you are worried about causing trouble, Siyao can find another ce to sit." Zhao Siyao pursed her lips, moved her skirt, and made a gesture to get up and leave.


    "No need, our decades of friendship can withstand investigation."


    Lan Chang''an waved his hand, seeing through her teasing joke. She didn''t truly intend to leave.


    Only because they had known each other for so long, the elegant and cool "Fairy Jade Moon" would never make such jokes in front of outsiders.


    Decades ago, when Lan Chang''an changed the way he addressed her in the Immortal Gathering Building, she was initially upset.


    After establishing his Foundation, Lan Chang''an''s ability to protect himself greatly increased. He no longer had thread as cautiously as when he was in the secondyer of Qi-Refining.


    People who were able to cultivate to the Foundation Establishment Realm were not brainless. Just seeing them sitting together wouldn''t attract the enmity of her pursuers.


    ...


    Cultivators from all sides arrived at the Huanglong auction.


    Late-stage Foundation Establishment and Fake-Dan Immortals'' powerful auras appeared in the upper stands and private rooms.


    "The people from Huanglong Mountain are here!"


    There was a low exmation in the hall, and many cultivators stood in awe.


    A strong Fake-Dan aura descended on the scene.


    It came from a burly man in a purple robe with a bald head, like a giant beast, bringing pressure to the entire hall.


    Ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators felt as if struck by lightning when they met his gaze.


    "He Yuanwu, the fourth disciple of Huanglong Zhenren, has a Fake-Dan cultivation. It''s said he also practices body refinement."


    Information about this person surfaced in Lan Chang''an''s mind.


    Among the disciples of Huanglong Zhenren, two had Fake-Dan cultivation, and He Yuanwu was one of them.


    The rest were mostly mid tote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Beside He Yuanwu was a stunning woman in a moon-white dress with long light purple hair, exuding a unique and independent temperament.


    She was Fu Xuemei, the final disciple of Huanglong Immortal.


    He Yuanwu, Fu Xuemei, and three others went to the topmost Heaven-level private room.


    At the auction, Lan Chang''an saw some familiar cultivators, such as Zhou Qingxuan, Alchemist Hua, and Artifact Refiner Gu Lai.


    The Foundation Establishment ancestor of the Huang Family, Huang Tankong.


    Lin Ye, the alchemist from Little Pill Peak of Wuqi Mountain, was also present.


    This did not include some mysterious people hiding their identities.


    Lan Chang''an had be acquainted with many cultivators during his time in the Huanglong Immortal City, so it would have been impossible for him to greet each one individually, mostly nodding in acknowledgment.


    ...


    "This is the Huanglong auction. Wee Fellow Daoists from all over Liang Kingdom."


    A silver-haired old man in the Foundation Establishment Realm spoke on the auction stage, his deep voice echoing throughout the hall.


    After announcing the rules, the auction officially began.


    "The first auction item is Bottleneck-Breaking Pill forte-stage Qi-Refining. The role of breakthrough pills needs no further boration..."


    A tall pce-dressed female cultivator brought up the tray.


    Bottleneck-Breaking Pill, back in the Mu Family, Lan Chang''an and Li Erqing had a hard time queuing for it. Here at the Huanglong Auction, it was merely an opening item.


    The second auction item was a top superior-grade defensive magical weapon.


    The third item was a top superior-grade first-rank flying boat.


    The fourth auction item was a second-rank spirit ore.


    ...


    Before the auction, Lan Chang''an made extensive purchases and had a clear target today.


    He wouldn''t bid easily for other auction items. Bidding too much could expose his wealth.


    Towards the end of the first half of the auction, two extremely high quality magical weapons, also known as supreme-grade weapons, appeared.


    Many Foundation Establishment cultivators bid one after another, making the atmosphere lively.


    "Do you need me to lend you a thousand spirit stones?"


    Lan Chang''an noticed Zhao Siyao''s interest but her tight budget.


    This time, Zhao Siyao only participated in the bidding for pills and refining materials, none of which were very expensive.


    Although Zhao Siyao was a disciple of a Fake-Dan Immortal, she didn''t receive substantial support from her sect.


    She had no special cultivation skills, and most of her spirit stones were used for her own cultivation.


    "Forget it, If I borrow your spirit stones, I won''t be able to repay you anytime soon." Zhao Siyao nced at him, her eyes clear and bright, shaking her head with a smile.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t force it.


    He and Zhao Siyao had a good enough rtionship, but any further, and it would be inappropriate.


    Zhao Siyao could afford a supreme-grade magical weapon but mainly wanted to save spirit stones to upgrade her current Iron Trellis Umbre to a supreme-grade magical weapon by adding materials and refining it a step further.


    ...


    In the second half of the auction, Lan Chang''an long-anticipated target finally appeared.


    "The next auction item is the rare second-rank top superior-grade spiritual wood ''Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo.'' This wood contains spirituality and is an excellent material for making magical weapons, especially those pertaining to the Sound Dao." The silver-haired old man introduced.


    The pce-dressed female cultivator, wearing white silk gloves, presented a dark green spirit bamboo with golden threads.


    "Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo!"


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes brightened, concealing his inner joy.


    The skin of Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo is an excellent second-rank talisman paper material. But few people used it this way because it wasn''t cost-effective.


    Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo, as bamboo, was only about the size of a fist, and its skin couldn''t produce much talisman paper. Its best use was to make musical magical weapons.


    "Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo, starting price seven hundred spirit stones, with each increment no less than ten spirit stones."


    "Seven hundred and fifty spirit stones."


    A clear female voice came from the right side of the Earth-Level stand.


    The speaker was a serene Foundation Establishment female cultivator in a Liuxian dress. Beside the female cultivator were beautiful female cultivators, their faces painted with vibrant makeup.


    Cultivators from Xuan Yin Pavilion?


    Lan Chang''an recognized their origin and didn''t immediately participate.


    "Eight hundred and twenty... eight hundred and fifty..."


    The participants were sparse.


    Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo was not considered a popr auction item, just rare.


    "One thousand spirit stones!"


    The Xuan Yin Pavilion female cultivator in the Liuxian dress gritted her teeth.


    One thousand spirit stones wasn''t arge amount for a Foundation Establishment cultivator, but it was quite extravagant to buy a piece of bamboo.


    "Fellow Daoists, why not give face to Xuan Yin Pavilion''s ''Fairy Wei,'' a thousand spirit stones have already exceeded the market price."


    In the VIP stand adjacent to the Xuan Yin Pavilion''s female cultivator, a short-haired young man in a ck cloak spoke with a smile.


    The Xuan Yin Pavilion female cultivator snorted softly, clearly displeased, but she said nothing.


    "One thousand spirit stones, any higher bids?"


    The silver-haired old man held the auction hammer, surveying the surroundings. No one else spoke.


    Perhaps because the price was high, or to save face for the two sect Foundation Establishment cultivators, no one chose to continue the bidding war.


    "One thousand one hundred spirit stones."


    A gentle and calm voice sounded.


    Zhao Siyao showed a surprised look at Lan Chang''an.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an hadn''t made any bids, making it unclear whether he wouldpete for the Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo.


    The Xuan Yin Pavilion female cultivator nced at Lan Chang''an and sighed.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan is new to Foundation Establishment as an old man, why would youpete with a female cultivator for the Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo?" The short-haired young man in the ck cloak looked displeased, his eyes shing.


    "This person is a direct disciple of me Departing Pce, try to avoid conflict." Zhao Siyao transmitted.


    me Departing Pce was a Nascent Soul level cultivation force, supreme in Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    "May I ask if there are any rules giving female cultivators priority at this auction?" Lan Chang''an countered politely.


    The short-haired cultivator''s face stilled.


    Prior to this, Lan Chang''an had been unaware of this individual''s identity. However, the Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo was an essentialponent for his treasure talisman project, so he would contend for it against anyone who wasn''t a Fake-Dan Immortal.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, this concerns you not! Even if you were to win the Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo, I would not im it," the Xuan Yin Pavilion cultivator said coldly.


    The short-haired cultivator in the ck cloak smiled helplessly and cupped his fist respectfully toward Lan Chang''an. "Fellow Daoist Lan, my apologies for my rudeness earlier."


    "It''s no matter."


    Lan Chang''an sighed in relief. Without this person interfering, he could smoothly acquire the Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo.


    He hadn''t dared topete for Foundation Establishment Pills at auction in the past precisely because of this reason. A tiny stalk of bamboo had nearly caused an unexpected quarrel with disciples of the me Departing pce, let alone the vital Foundation Establishment Pills, which were a strategic resource.


    Lan Chang''an realized that his reputation as an ancient foundation establishment cultivator afforded him a certain degree of protection, especially in public settings.


    Lan Chang''an went backstage at the auction, paid the spirit stones, and took possession of the top superior-grade Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo.

 Chapter 101: Challenging Fake-Dan

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    A second-rank superior spirit wood wouldn''t be considered the main attraction. The second half of the auction boasted a much higher caliber of items, and the cultivators from all the major forcespeted fiercely against each other, their faces flushed.


    Here, Foundation Establishment Pills were not considered the grand finale.


    A standard Foundation Establishment Pill fetched a high price of over six thousand spirit stones.


    "Second-rank Life Extension Pills, a total of two, can extend life by more than ten years. Effects of the same grade cannot be stacked. Elderly seniors present, do not miss this opportunity!"


    "Second-rank Life Extension Pills!"


    The elderly Foundation Establishment cultivators perked up.


    "The starting price is fifteen hundred spirit stones, with each bid increment not less than twenty spirit stones."


    "Sixteen hundred spirit stones!"Before the words had faded, an elderly woman impatiently ced a bid.


    "Sixteen sixty!"


    "Seventeen hundred!"


    The value of second-rank Life Extension Pills was several times higher than first-rank ones.


    First-rank Life Extension Pills had materials that were easier to find and could be refined by first-rank alchemists. But at the second rank, the materials were much rarer.


    Another reason was that Foundation Establishment cultivators were wealthier.


    "Eighteen hundred spirit stones."


    Lan Chang''an also participated in the bidding.


    "The Turtle Talisman Master? The ancient Foundation Establishment cultivator?"


    This time, Lan Chang''an''s bid for the Life Extension Pills didn''t attract dissatisfaction once his identity was known.


    An elderly Foundation Establishment cultivator with limited potential buying Life Extension Pills for himself was understandable.


    The first second-rank Life Extension Pill sold for twenty-two hundred spirit stones to ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator from the me Departing Pce


    After some consideration, Lan Chang''an decided to wait.


    Life Extension Pills were not a popr auction item, mainly targeting the older cultivators.


    First, the effects of the same rank did not stack, and those with strength and need had already taken them in the past.


    Second, truly elderly cultivators had severely declining physical conditions; buying Life Extension Pills only prolonged their struggles.


    Whether they could advance further wasrgely determined by their cultivation progress in their younger years.


    If the price was too high, it was better to cultivate a new Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The second Life Extension Pill saw no participation from cultivators with powerful backgrounds.


    Lan Chang''an decided to take it.


    "Twenty-two hundred spirit stones."


    The bidder was an old man in in clothes with a head full of grey hair and mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation.


    "Huang Tankong from the Maple Leaf Huang Family?"


    Someone recognized the identity of the old man in in clothes.


    Previously, the Maple Leaf Huang Family had four Foundation Establishment cultivators, owning the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town, making them a significant force in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    "Huang Tankong is the eldest and most senior Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Huang family, with only twenty-something years of lifespan left."


    Lan Chang''an nced at Huang Tankong.


    His soul was strong, and his Evergreen Technique heightened his sensitivity to longevity.


    "Twenty-three hundred."


    Lan Chang''an bid higher, exceeding the sale price of the first Life Extension Pill.


    Huang Tankong''s face darkened as he nced at him: "Twenty-three twenty."


    "Twenty-four hundred," Lan Chang''an said firmly.


    Huang Tankong sucked in a deep breath, his face indecisive, but ultimately, he abandoned the bidding. He suspected that Lan Chang''an was deliberately raising the price to thwart him.


    Lan Chang''an sneered inwardly, how could Huang Tankongpete with him?


    Wealth was only a secondary reason.


    Lan Chang''an was alone, without a family or any descendants.


    To extend his life, he could bid for Life Extension Pills regardless of the cost.


    Huang Tankong represented a family, with numerous family members behind him, consuming spirit stones in all aspects.


    Including his wives, concubines, and descendants, who need to be nurtured.


    Spending too many spirit stones on a single thing was a poor investment; it would be more efficient to put that money toward training a new Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    If he recklessly pursued Life Extension Pills, it would appear selfish and desperate to his family and outsiders.


    Lan Chang''an, having been the head of a cultivation family in his previous life, understood this well.


    ...


    The auction was nearing its end.


    In thetter part, talismanic treasures and prototype magic treasures appeared, fetching astronomical prices.


    Especially talismanic treasures!


    Various forces, includingte-stage Foundation Establishment, Fake-Dan cultivators, and mysterious individuals, made moves.


    Talismanic treasures were a part of the power of a magic treasure sealed in a special talisman.


    A Foundation Establishment cultivator wielding a talismanic treasure could crush cultivators below the Fake-Dan stage.


    Unfortunately, Lan Chang''an wasn''t qualified topete for such items. However, he had his Treasure Talisman Project, and he had obtained the key materials needed.


    "Once I return to Wuqi Mountain, I can refine and nurture treasure talismans. With this piece of top superior-grade second-rank Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo, if utilized properly, I should be able to create a few treasure talisman embryos." Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    Treasure Talisman, the essence is to exchange time for power.


    If conditions allowed, he naturally wanted to nurture some in bulk.


    ...


    "The Huanglong auction has ended. Fellow cultivators, please leave in an orderly manner. Fighting and killing for treasures in the city are prohibited..."


    In the venue, cultivators from various factions dispersed.


    With a Fake-Dan cultivator overseeing the event, no one dared to act rashly.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao left together.


    At this moment, he faintly sensed a pair of eyes watching him from behind.


    At the top floor of the auction venue.


    A peerless beauty with light purple long hair and an ethereal orchid-like presence watched the white-robed young man''s back.


    "Junior Sister, is that the lucky ancient Foundation Establishment cultivator who traded that superior Foundation Establishment Pill with you?" A bald, burly man in purple robes approached Fu Xuemei.


    It was the Fake-Dan cultivator He Yuanwu.


    He nced indifferently at the departing cultivators, his gaze briefly resting on Lan Chang''an.


    "Mhm."


    Fu Xuemei responded softly, her naturally elegant brows seemingly sketching a faint mncholy.


    "You are still too kind! That incident hardly counted as robbery, yet that kid took advantage of your luck and gained a lot. If he has any conscience, he should thank you in the future."


    "If it were me, I would do anything for my loved ones, even if it meant annihting a family or ughtering a city." He Yuanwu''s voice was low and domineering.


    "Back then, to seize opportunities, I often killed and robbed, bullying the weak..."


    This Fake-Dan cultivator spoke candidly, instilling his beliefs in his junior sister.


    Hmm?


    He Yuanwu''s brow suddenly furrowed, and he looked up at the sky above Huanglong Immortal City.


    A sharp aura descended on the city''s third-rank grade formation.


    "He Yuanwu! Do you daree out and fight!"


    A cloud of fiery glow appeared on the formation, revealing a tall, heroic young man carrying a long sword.


    A loud shout resounded through the sky, shaking Huanglong Immortal City.


    "Who is so bold to cause trouble in Huanglong Immortal City?"


    "It''s Tuoba Jin, the contemporary prodigy of the Liuyun Sect!"


    "Tuoba Jin is at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, how dare he challenge a Fake-Dan cultivator?"


    ...


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao were startled and looked up at the young man in the sky, who appeared as sharp and tall as a sword unsheathing from its hilt.


    "He Yuanwu, do you remember when you bullied me with numbers in the ''Green Underworld Mysterious Realm'' and robbed me of my opportunities?"


    "Today, I, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, will challenge a Fake-Dan cultivator to wash away that humiliation."


    Tuoba Jin, tall and majestic, with sharp eyes and a chiseled face, stood like a marble statue.


    "Hmph! Back then it was you who wasn''t skilled enough, and today you daree to humiliate yourself?" He Yuanwu sneered disdainfully.


    "Senior Brother He, ignore him. Tuoba Jin''s energy is boiling, and he wants to use you as a whetstone to break through to the Core Formation Realm." Fu Xuemei transmitted a message.


    "Then let Senior Brother crush his spirit!"


    He Yuanwu''s gaze turned fierce, his face twitching with muscles, and his body''s dan power surged like a dragon, rushing to the sky above Huanglong Immortal City.


    Under the eyes of all, Tuoba Jin issued his challenge.


    As a Fake-Dan cultivator, if he retreated, Huanglong Immortal City''s prestige would plummet.


    Boom! Boom!


    Two deafening explosions as the Fake-Dan cultivator and the peak Foundation Establishment cultivator shed instantly.


    Visible to the naked eye, a fiery cloud of light intertwined with a ck tornado, the two forces shing as they left the Huanglong Immortal City and struck the distant mountains


    Many spectators flew out of Huanglong Immortal City to watch the battle between the two powerhouses.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao stopped at the city gate to watch.


    In the distant mountains, rocks shattered and dust rolled.


    He Yuanwu, as a Fake-Dan cultivator, wielded a giant ck axe magic treasure prototype, raising a storm of ck des several tens of zhang.


    Boom!


    Some mountain peaks were directly ttened by the ck giant axe.


    Tuoba Jin wielded a long sword prototype magic treasure, the de expanding five or six zhang, surrounded by four-colored mes, its momentum close to Core Formation.


    "Six Spirit Fiery Sword Art, cultivated to the fourth level! Tuoba Jin indeed deserves to be the contemporary prodigy of the Liuyun Sect."


    Some veteran Foundation Establishment cultivators eximed.


    In the mountains, the four-colored sword mes and ck de storm shed repeatedly.


    Initially, He Yuanwu held the advantage with his superior magic power and magic treasure prototype.


    As time went by, Tuoba Jin''s relentless perseverance,bined with his growing focus and determination, allowed him to gradually turn the tide in his favor. However, even still, Tuoba Jin could not best He Yuanwu.


    He Yuanwu was not only a Fake-Dan cultivator but also cultivated his body, making him exceptionally strong among Fake-Dan cultivators.


    As the fight dragged from day to sunset, both sides were wounded, yet they continued to fight on, ferocity undiminished.


    ...


    "Stop."


    An elderly voice came from within Huanglong Immortal City.


    Tuoba Jin and He Yuanwu''s minds were shaken, and they simultaneously ceased fighting and retreated.


    He Yuanwu''s face was gloomy, almost dripping with water.


    "Hahaha! A Fake-Dan cultivator, nothing more!"


    Tuoba Jinughed loudly, carrying his long sword, his face stained with blood, his spirit soaring, and left with the wind.


    "This person has the potential to form a core."


    Lan Chang''an secretly evaluated.


    In his second life, at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, he would be no match for Tuoba Jin.


    Through this battle, Tuoba Jin had ovee his mental obstacles, strengthened his resolve, and fortified his beliefs. With this boost in morale, he would be able to return and attempt to form a core with renewed vigor.


    "Tuoba Jin challenged a disciple of Huanglong Immortal, using a Fake-Dan cultivator as a whetstone, what boldness!"


    "Even though it was a tie, he seeded!"


    Many cultivators were shocked, watching the departing Tuoba Jin.


    In front of Huanglong Immortal City.


    Before the Huanglong Immortal City, the sun dipped below the horizon, leaving a dull yellow sky, as if it were watching the rise of a new prodigy.


    "Liang Kingdom has so many forces in its cultivation world. Yet Tuoba Jin chose to hone himself against Huanglong Immortal''s disciple." Gazing at the setting sun, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but ponder deeply.


    He realized that the illustrious Huanglong Immortal City stood on the precipice of a turning point in history.


    ...

 Chapter 102: Unexpected Relations

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Spring ducks are the first to know when the river warms.


    Lan Chang''an believed that the higher-ups of the cultivation sects had keener senses than ordinary cultivators.


    Using others as whetstones was something Lan Chang''an had seen in his past life. But a stone too hard to crack would be left abandoned.


    Tuoba Jin wouldn''t challenge the Fake-Dan cultivators of the me Departing Pce.


    His enmity with He Yuanwu was only a superficial reason.


    With Tuoba Jin''s sharpness, he must have crossed paths with many people, not just He Yuanwu.


    The fundamental reason was that Huanglong Immortal City was a suitable target. It was strong, but not invincible, and thus Tuoba Jin was unafraid to offend them.


    "The current Huanglong Immortal City¡ªand Huanglong Immortal himself¡ªmay not be as formidable as one might think." Lan Chang''an mused.Huanglong Immortal still had more than a hundred years of lifespan left.


    As long as he remained as the stabilizing force, without major issues, Huanglong Immortal City might only decline slowly, not copse rapidly.


    "In a few decades, Huanglong Immortal''s physical state will inevitably decline, as he enters the decline of old age."


    Lan Chang''an spected that the peak period of Huanglong Immortal¡¯s prime was nearly over.


    Huanglong Immortal¡¯s weaknessy in not cultivating a True Dan-level sessor.


    Among his disciples, only two were Fake-Dan Immortals, and while there were other Core Formation cultivators within the Huanglong Immortal City, they would only follow orders from Huanglong Immortal himself.


    A Fake-Dan Immortal could not control the interests within an entire immortal city, nor could weaker core cultivators.


    ...


    Therge auction concluded.


    Zhao Siyao bid farewell and set off back to Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an also prepared to leave Huanglong.


    Before leaving, he made another transaction with the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    This time, it was Zhou Qingxuan in charge again.


    Lan Chang''an obtained arger superior-grade second-rank demonic beast skin, along with some mid to low-grade second-rank materials suitable for creating talisman paper.


    Not all demonic beast skins could be used as talisman materials, and even the specific parts of the hide used were carefully considered. Generally speaking, the heart, neck, and abdomen were preferred. The hides of captive beasts were far inferior to those of wild ones.


    Lan Chang''an stayed at Water Moon Residence for a month toplete the transaction.


    This time, besides earning a portion of excess materials, he also obtained five top superior-grade second-rank talismans.


    Adding the previous three, he now had eight top superior-grade second-rank talismans in total.


    "Unfortunately, at the mid to superior second-rank level, the excess material obtained is far less than at the first rank."


    Lan Chang''an felt a bit regretful.


    This was inevitable. As the talisman level improved, his advantages as a third-rank talisman master in his past life would diminish.


    ording to Zhou Qingxuan, the next transaction would be at least a few yearster.


    ...


    Afterpleting the transaction.


    Lan Chang''an vacated his Water Moon Residence and bid farewell to his neighbors.


    He took Guan Qiaozhi and left Huanglong Immortal City, where he had cultivated for over twenty years.


    Three days after Lan Chang''an left.


    A Foundation Establishment aura arrived in front of Water Moon Residence.


    The visitor was a clear-eyed youth wearing arge cotton coat.


    "Am I toote?"


    Looking at the empty courtyard, the youth''s expression changed.


    "Senior Fu, are you here to find Master Lan? He left Huanglong Immortal City three days ago." Du Wei from Heart Pill Residence warmly greeted him.


    The youth in the cotton coat was Fu Dong, Fu Xuemei¡¯s younger brother.


    His rise to the Foundation Establishment stage, despite his inferior spiritual roots, had caused quite a stir in Huanglong Immortal City.


    "Do you know where he went?"


    "Not sure." Du Wei shook his head.


    Lan Chang''an was merely a friend with benefits, and after reaching the Foundation Establishment stage, they had less contact.


    Fu Dong sighed, saying nothing else.


    ...


    A monthter.


    Lan Chang''an piloted a flying boat, bringing Guan Qiaozhi to Wuqi Mountain.


    Theynded on Little Turtle Peak.


    "Senior Brother Lan, is the whole spiritual vein peak ours?" Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s eyes sparkled, her delicate face flushed with joy.


    She opened her arms, dancing lightly in the mountain wind, her skirt fluttering.


    "Unless something unexpected happens, this ce will belong to us privately for the next few decades." Lan Chang''an smiled, appreciating the youthful vibrancy of the girl.


    Guan Qiaozhi was about thirty years younger than him and had been taking beauty-preserving pills from an early age, maintaining a youthful appearance.


    Besides inheriting her master¡¯s legacy, Guan Qiaozhi, as Lan Chang''an¡¯s concubine, always had a stable ie of spiritual stones from making talisman paper, with a share given by Lan Chang''an.


    Her treatment was much better than in regr talisman shops.


    Lan Chang''an also asionally gave her some pocket money.


    This considerable ie of spiritual stones was used by Guan Qiaozhi for cultivation and purchasing of beauty-preserving pills.


    "The ce is quiterge, including a cave mansion. It will be quite a task to manage."


    "It won''t be hard at all! I''ll make this ce beautiful!"


    Guan Qiaozhi had never dreamed of enjoying a spiritual vein field as big as a mountain, and it was a second-rank spiritual vein.


    It was like moving from a Cindere¡¯s life to a royal garden, bing half a mistress.


    ...


    Returning to Wuqi Mountain, Lan Chang''an was seventy-two years old.


    The next two months were busy.


    Setting up the protective formation, renovating the cave residence.


    nting spiritual grains, medicinal herbs, and spiritual wood seedlings.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was the mainborer, digging tunnels and fields, which was its talent.


    Guan Qiaozhi was busy every day, meticulously designing and modifying theyout of each room in the cave mansion, including the outside garden and medicinal fields.


    Therge pond in front of the cave residence had many rusted items with dark poison.


    To give the Profound Water Turtle afortable environment, Guan Qiaozhi painstakingly used spells to clean the rust from the pond. The ten-mu pond had its water changed seven or eight times before she was satisfied.


    By now, Guan Qiaozhi had long forgotten about inheriting the old man''s legacy.


    She was very satisfied here, she had the cultivation site she dreamed of and followed her senior brother, a Foundation Establishment Realm cultivator, to train in talisman drawing, raising turtles, and growing nts together.


    In two months, the formation setup, cave renovation, and spiritual field cultivation on Little Turtle Peak were basicallypleted.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Guan Qiaozhi worked tirelessly every day, often until her waist ached.


    Before, this little maid would asionally wear transparent gauze dresses, subtly seducing Lan Chang''an, but recently she had no such thoughts.


    Mainly, Little Turtle Peak was toorge, and Lan Chang''an had nted many spiritual grains, medicinal herbs, and spiritual wood seedlings.


    The daily tasks of watering, pest control, and weeding were already a huge workload.


    This didn¡¯t even include the use of spiritual spells.


    Little Turtle Peak had a second-rank spiritual vein, which provided a certain enhancement to low-grade spiritual rice and medicinal herbs with short cultivation periods.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze turned to the Profound Water Turtle by the pond.


    "I''ve raised you for over thirty years. It''s time you learned to fend for yourself."


    Lan Chang''an walked over and knocked on the turtle shell with the back of his hand.


    "From today onwards, the task of watering the spiritual grains, medicinal herbs, and seedlings on the mountain is yours."


    "Zizi!" The Earth Burrowing Rat crawled out of a hole, baring its teeth and raising its paws in agreement.


    The Profound Water Turtle looked at Lan Chang''an with tearful eyes.


    Seeing that he was unmoved, it moved its limbs and headed to the medicinal herb area.


    In front of a medicinal field, it cast a minor spiritual spell.


    A shower of rain fell, emitting a faint green glow.


    Lan Chang''an nodded in satisfaction, noticing that the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s spiritual spell contained the vitality of the wood element.


    This Profound Water Turtle had leaf-like patterns on its shell when it hatched.


    Lan Chang''an spected that the Evergreen Technique, which cost him six months of lifespan to hatch the turtle, had influenced its physique.


    ...


    After setting up the cave mansion on the mountain, Lan Chang''an invited the other two peak masters of Wuqi Mountain.


    Under the witness of Jin Yun Valley cultivators.


    Lin Ye, Shi Manrong, and Lan Chang''an signed a new joint spiritual contract.


    The rent for Wuqi Mountain¡¯s spiritual vein was twelve thousand spiritual stones every ten years, divided equally among the three.


    The annual rental fee might not seem like much, but time passed swiftly for cultivators with their long lifespans. Renting for ten or twenty years at a time would be a considerable expense.


    After signing the spiritual contract.


    Lan Chang''an hosted a banquet in his cave mansion, entertaining Lin Ye and Shi Manrong.


    The two Foundation Establishment cultivators highly praised Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s culinary skills.


    Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s dexterity wasn¡¯t limited to making talisman materials; she excelled at all crafts requiring hands-on skills.


    She also did well in handling puppet parts.


    "Daoist Lan, did you purchase the second-rank formation on your mountain from Huanglong Immortal City?" Shi Manrong, elegant and calm, her eyes clear as water.


    "Daoist Lan, are you doubting Fairy Shi''s formation skills?" Lin Ye¡¯s dark red old face showed a hint of teasing.


    Shi Manrong was a renowned formation genius in the area.


    "Of course not! My original n was to set up two formations: one for defense and the other for illusions and attacks, which I intended to entrust to Fairy Shi." Lan Chang''an exined his idea.


    The formation he set up was from his past life, with good resistance to spiritual sense probing.


    Shi Manrong nodded, inquiring about Lan Chang''an¡¯s specific needs.


    She didn¡¯t stay for the drinks, bowing slightly and leaving early.


    Lin Ye, an alchemist who loved alcohol, brought two jars of spiritual wine.


    Lan Chang''an drank and chatted with him for a long time, learning about the surrounding conditions of Wuqi Mountain.


    "Daoist Lan, do you know why I chose you to rent the third peak?"


    After a few rounds, Lin Ye¡¯s expression became mysterious, and he set up a soundproof barrier.


    "Why is that?"


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t figure it out.


    Shi Manrong had a bad rtionship with Gu Lai and wouldn''t support him. In Wuqi Mountain, Lin Ye had the highest cultivation and skills, giving him more say.


    Lin Ye¡¯s next words startled Lan Chang''an:


    "Alchemist Hua is my senior brother."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s pupils contracted, feeling wary.


    "Haha, Daoist Lan, don¡¯t worry. We are friends, not foes. The way that animal Hua schemed against you, others might not see through it, but how could I not guess?"

 Chapter 103: Obtaining the First Treasure Talisman

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Fellow Daoist Lin, I don''t quite understand what you mean," Lan Chang''an said, furrowing his brows.


    "Alchemist Hua concocted pills for me. Two pills were made, including one of superior quality, which is considered an extraordinary performance."


    "Perhaps he leaked the information, but I also benefited from the disaster. The deal with Miss Fu only brought me profit, and I gained a valuable favor."


    Lan Chang''an did not easily believe Lin Ye''s words.


    This person and Alchemist Hua were senior and junior brothers. Who knew if he was here to test him?


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, whether you are pretending not to know or are genuinely in the dark, I will tell you the truth: In the alchemy lineage of Hua Heng and this humble Lin, there is a secret refining method that is not known to outsiders. By sacrificing the number of finished pills produced, we can increase the chances of creating a superior product."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an showed a suitably surprised expression.


    "Back then, Alchemist Hua used dirty tricks to deceive my childhood sweetheart and beloved junior sister, gaining the trust of our master and receiving the core secret techniques.""I, Lin, haven''t had any contact with him for decades. You can ask those who know the situation, and you will see that what I say is true."


    Lin Ye''s old face turned red with indignation, and under the influence of alcohol, he recounted his past grievances.


    Lan Chang''an was about seventy to eighty percent convinced.


    Lin Ye was in the mid Foundation Establishment and a second-rank superior alchemist. He wouldn''t lie about something like this.


    Previously, he had never heard Du Wei mention Lin Ye, indicating that there was indeed no contact between them.


    Lin Ye said his childhood sweetheart was deceived by dirty means, but Lan Chang''an remained skeptical.


    It was true that Alchemist Hua was his enemy.


    But to be fair, Alchemist Hua''s image and demeanor were far superior to Lin Ye''s.


    Perhaps Lin Ye failed in his pursuit, or maybe the junior sister simply fell in love with someone else.


    "I will verify this slowly in the future." Lan Chang''an made no solid statement.


    Alchemist Hua was well-established in Huanglong Immortal City, with far more connections than Lin Ye.


    Lin Ye bore a grudge against Alchemist Hua but couldn''t deal with him alone, likely wanting to drag Lan Chang''an into the fray or use him as a tool for revenge.


    "I am just informing you of the truth. You can pretend you never heard what I just said." Lin Ye took a sip of wine and moved past the topic.


    These words were at least enough to nt a seed of doubt in Lan Chang''an''s mind.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an had considered seeking revenge on Alchemist Hua. Dealing with him was easier and less risky than dealing with Fu Xuemei. Ultimately, Alchemist Hua was just a rootless wandering cultivator with no background to speak of.


    The reason he hadn''t acted yet was twofold.


    One, he didn''t want to alert the snake and raise Fu Xuemei''s suspicion.


    Two, the timing wasn''t right yet.


    Alchemist Hua was in the mid Foundation Establishment, wealthy, and his protective measures far surpassed those of Young Master Huang.


    Lan Chang''an had a long lifespan and was not in a hurry.


    He nned to wait for Huanglong Immortal City to decline and for Alchemist Hua''s power to diminish.


    By then his cultivation and protective measures would be stronger, when he would able able to call upon the second life''s soul imprint¡ªthat would be when he''d strike, with victory assured and freedom to act as he pleased.


    ...


    In the evening, Lan Chang''an saw Lin Ye off from his cave mansion.


    "Master Lin, Talisman Master Lan."


    Outside Little Turtle Peak, a slender, graceful female cultivator flew over.


    Her name was Lan Lin, and she was the steward of Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Lin was responsible for handling external affairs with cultivator clients and managing mundane matters for the three peak masters.


    "Senior Lan."


    Lan Lin greeted gracefully, specifically seeking him out.


    "I noticed that Little Turtle Peak is quite deserted. Would you like to recruit a few maids or servants?"


    Wuqi Mountain, besides the three main peaks, enjoyed the environment of a mid-grade second-rank spiritual vein. The surrounding area also had a considerable region with the environment of a first-rank spiritual vein.


    ording to the agreement among the three peak masters, each main peak could only amodate one Foundation Establishment cultivator at a time and allowed to take in twenty Qi-Refining juniors or servants.


    This rule was in ce to prevent overuse of the spiritual energy supply. After all, the scale of the spiritual vein in Wuqi Mountain was notrge.


    Those Qi-Refining servants were mostly loose cultivators without their own spiritual veins, and were dependent on the three peak masters.


    "I don''t need them for now."


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want too many people meddling on Little Turtle Peak.


    Guan Qiaozhi was diligent and skillful, with the help of the Earth Burrowing Rat and the Profound Water Turtle, she could manage most tasks. Once Little Turtle Peak was on track, he would add some puppets.


    Then, Lan Chang''an discussed the details of selling talismans with Lan Lin.


    Currently, Lan Chang''an was still fairly well-off and nned to follow the high-quality route, selling only second-rank talismans in the future.


    This would reduce total profits but make things easier.


    Initially focusing on low-grade second-rank talismans, he wouldter add mid-grade second-rank ones.


    As the steward of Wuqi Mountain, Lan Lin also provided courier and errand services, free of charge for the three peak masters.


    Lan Chang''an entrusted her with three letters, that he applied restrictions to, and sent them to Feiyue Lake, Jin Yun Valley, and the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    ...


    "Finally, things have settled down."


    Lan Chang''an returned to his cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak and checked the formation core.


    The core of the mountain''s protective formation, designed in his previous life, was located within this cave, where the istion from spiritual sense was the highest.


    In the quiet room.


    Lan Chang''an took out the second-rank Life Extension Pill he had bought at the auction.


    The second-rank Life Extension Pill had remarkable effects, so Lan Chang''an waited until he was certain he had arranged everything properly before consuming it.


    The Evergreen mana in his body immediately came to life, surging so vigorously it nearly burst from his palms to devour the Life Extension Pill.


    Lan Chang''an swallowed the pill, and the mysterious Qi of the ages enveloped him more strongly than ever before.


    His spirit felt as if it had been tempered by over twenty years of time.


    "Extended lifespan by twenty-three years!"


    Lan Chang''an was full of vitality and energy, as if he had truly returned to his eighteen-year-old self.


    "With these twenty-three years, my maximum lifespan in the Foundation Establishment stage is now four hundred and eighteen years!"


    His current lifespan far exceeded that of a Fake-Dan cultivator. It was nearly double that of a regr Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Moreover, the Evergreen mana clearly strengthened after absorbing the second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    "Previously, my Evergreen mana was on par with the outer sect techniques of the sect, at most slightly superior. Now it has a clear advantage." Lan Chang''an used Jin Yun Valley as a reference.


    This meant that the Evergreen Technique, with its various additional effects, now had power slightly exceeding that of outer sect disciples of a Core Formation sect.


    It should be noted that the Evergreen Technique was originally only equivalent to loose cultivator-level techniques.


    ...


    After taking the Life Extension Pill.


    Lan Chang''an took out the top superior-grade second-rank Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo and had Guan Qiaozhi help cut and prepare the talisman embryos of the treasure talismans.


    The talisman embryos for treasure talismans required spiritual materials. The Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo''s skin, with its hidden golden patterns, contained spiritual vitality.


    Ultimately, this segment of Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo was used to make four talisman embryos.


    The paper that carries treasure talismans not only had quality requirements but also needed arger quantity.


    Next was the drawing of the treasure talisman.


    The refining method for treasure talismans was somewhat different from ordinary talismans.


    It required more advanced techniques, and key nodes needed to be reinforced to sustain the long-term nurturing process.


    As for the technique, he had figured out most of it in his previous life and had been deducing it over the past two years as well.


    To increase the sess rate, Lan Chang''an called upon the first life''s soul imprint from the Nine Seal Stele.


    With the addition of his first life''s soul, Lan Chang''an not only experienced a slight increase in his spiritual sense but also an improvement in his talisman-drawing state.


    In one smooth motion, he drew a superior-grade second-rank Thunderbolt Talisman, or rather, the prototype of a Thunderbolt Treasure Talisman.


    Phew!


    Lan Chang''an expended arge amount of mana, and the added soul projection of the first life was quickly depleted.


    After advancing to the Foundation Establishment Realm, the first life''s soul imprint needed only two months of nurturing to fully illuminate.


    For the next few talismans, Lan Chang''an nned to use the same method.


    "The first treasure talisman prototype. Let''s see how the nurturing goes."


    After restoring his mana, Lan Chang''an sped his hands together, cing the Thunderbolt Treasure Talisman prototype in his palm.


    Carefully guiding his Evergreen mana, he subtly enveloped the treasure talisman prototype.


    After half a month of testing, Lan Chang''an was overjoyed.


    "The spiritual quality of the talisman material is being nurtured. The treasure talisman''s absorption efficiency of Evergreen mana far surpasses that of my previous life."


    He stood on the shoulders of his previous life. He had the Evergreen Technique in this life, and with a little fumbling and deduction, his achievements in the field of treasure talismans broke through the shackles of his previous life.


    This was the second time Lan Chang''an had surpassed his past life.


    The first was when he saw Daoist Tianxu, achieving a breakthrough in his understanding of the world.


    This time it was an achievement in skill.


    ...


    Afterpleting the first treasure talisman, Lan Chang''an nurtured it during his daily cultivation.


    He would wait two months until the first life''s imprint lit up again to refine the second treasure talisman.


    A few dayster, Shi Manrong visited, bringing a set of second-rank mountain-protecting formations.


    "The Illusory Moon Water Killing Formation, a second-rank mid-grade illusion and killing formation. During moonlit nights, the power of the illusion formation increases by forty to fifty percent, with hidden offensive means like ''thousand water arrows'' and ''water killing waves and other offensive killing methods.''"


    Shi Manrong wore a simple and elegant moon-colored dress, her tall and curvaceous figure subtly revealed.


    "ording to Fellow Daoist Lan''s requirements, this formation mainly covers the mountaintop area, making it much cheaper than a general mountain-protecting formation." Her voice was gentle and serene, like a female teacher, exining carefully.


    "This one, please help set it up, Fairy Shi."


    Lan Chang''an, who had some formation skills himself, had to admit that her formation techniques surpassed his own by far.


    Over the next few days, a graceful and beautiful figure was busy around Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an and the Earth Burrowing Rat assisted her.


    Shi Manrong was not a peerless beauty but her serene and elegant demeanor,bined with the charm of a mature woman, was very popr among Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    It was said that her suitors outnumbered those of some more beautiful young female cultivators.


    "All done."


    One day, Shi Manrong lightly wiped the fine sweat from her forehead. Rolling up her sleeves revealed a section of her jade-like arm.


    Lan Chang''an opened his storage pouch, ready to pay with spirit stones.


    Shi Manrong smoothed down her sleeves, her hair gently swaying, and looked at Lan Chang''an with clear eyes, smiling softly:


    "Could you not pay me with spirit stones?"

 104: Body Refinement Breakthrough

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    104: Body Refinement Breakthrough


    ¡°What would Fairy Shi like in exchange, if not spirit stones?¡± Lan Chang''an asked in surprise.


    Shi Manrong looked toward the direction of the cave mansion, her eyes bright as she said warmly, ¡°I won¡¯t ept payment for the mountain-protecting formation. I want to learn the formation that Fellow Daoist Lan has set up in your abode.¡±


    ¡°This protective formation is a closely guarded secret of mine and is not for sale,¡± Lan Chang''an decisively refused.


    The defensive formation he had set up on Little Turtle Peak came from his past life during the Core Formation Realm, acquired from the ruins of a cultivation civilization and simplified from an ancient third-rank formation.


    This formation not only excelled in defense but also had a good shielding effect against spiritual sense prying.


    The core of this formation was ced deep in the cave mansion by Lan Chang''an, making its functions rather concealed.


    This woman¡¯s sharp eyes had noticed some clues.As far as personal safety was concerned, Lan Chang''an would never divulge such knowledge to outsiders.


    ¡°I¡¯ll add a second-rank formation inheritance, how about that?¡± Shi Manrong¡¯s voice was soft and gentle, pleading sweetly.


    In terms of value, it exceeded the defensive formation set up by Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°No,¡± he firmly refused. When it came to matters of principle, Lan Chang''an refused to yield even an inch.


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault for being presumptuous,¡± Shi Manrong paused, her silver-te-like face glowing faintly red with embarrassment.


    She smiled apologetically and epted the spirit stones from Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    In the blink of an eye, more than half a year passed.


    Unknowingly, Lan Chang''an turned seventy-three.


    With the support of the first life¡¯s soul imprint from the Nine Seal Stele, he drew two more treasure talismans from the three talisman embryos. Now, Lan Chang''an was nurturing three treasure talismans simultaneously.


    Although only a short time had psed, he could feel the spirituality of the talisman material slowly growing, the future looked bright.


    On this day, inside the secret room of the cave mansion.


    Lan Chang''an sat in a medicinal tub, surrounded by second-rank crystal stones, each stone dimming and turning to powder.


    Suddenly, a low, thunderous roar like a tide surged from within his body, and an extremely strong blood and energy pressure swept out.


    Even without using any mana, the restrictions in the secret room were shaken up by the breakthrough impact.


    ¡°Fifthyer of the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual,¡± Lan Chang''an felt the beast-like power within his body, and the crystalline textures on his skin retracted.


    Ding! Chi!


    Lan Chang''an took out a top superior-grade magical weapon and shed his arm several times, leaving only faint, shallow red marks.


    ¡°The strength of my fleshy body isparable to a mid second-rank demon beast. But without the bloodline talents of a demon beast, I don¡¯t possess magical powers or divine abilities.¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood that themon body refining arts in the cultivation world were all auxiliary paths, not the main body cultivation path of the ancient era.


    In true body cultivation, it was harder to break through major realms, and higher realms would also face tribtions.


    The Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual only had some physical techniques focused on speed and agility. Overall, Lan Chang''an was quite satisfied.


    In fact, he dared not practice the true path of body cultivation, fearing the additional tribtion crisis in the future.


    ...


    A few dayster, after consolidating his gains, Lan Chang''an exited seclusion.


    Stepping out of the cave mansion, he felt refreshed.


    From the outskirts to halfway up Little Turtle Peak, golden light shimmered, indicating the ripeness of spirit grains.


    From the outside to the inside, seedlings of spirit trees encircled the peak.


    At the entrance of the cave mansion, arge pond covering ten mu was filled with emerald green lotus leaves, like umbres; the budding lotuses were like shy girls with red faces, exuding a faint fragrance.


    The open space around the pond was dotted with medicine fields, where various spirit flowers and exotic grasses vied for beauty in a riot of colors.


    A Profound Water Turtle was casting water spells in front of the medicine field, looking somewhat tired, while sparse rain mist fell from the sky.


    An Earth Burrowing Rat was digging the soil diligently, catching some harmful insects and birds.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s life is indeed leisurely, raising turtles and nting herbs, enjoying a carefree existence,¡± a gentle female voice sounded.


    In the pavilion opposite the pond, Shi Manrong leaned against the railing, her tall and full figure tiltedzily, a departure from her usual dignified demeanor.


    A breeze lifted the hem of her in skirt, revealing a glimpse of blue silk stockings and her crystal-like ankles.


    Guan Qiaozhi sat beside her, giggling softly, though it was unclear what she had just said.


    Lan Chang''an smiled, not surprised by this scene.


    Since thest formation setup, Shi Manrong asionally visited Little Turtle Peak.


    Each time she brought small gifts, like spirit tea and spirit fruits, and she was on good terms with Guan Qiaozhi.


    Lan Chang''an knew well that this woman wished to secretly learn his defensive formation, observing it quietly during her visits.


    Shi Manrong¡¯s visits were infrequent, the gifts she brought were of some value, and her graceful demeanor was pleasing to the eye, making her presence not unwee.


    As long as she didn¡¯t enter the cave mansion to inspect the formation¡¯s core, Lan Chang''an would let her be.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat let go of its catch and brought a letter to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an took the envelope and broke the restriction on it.


    It was a letter from Li Erqing.


    The letter mentioned that the situation around Feiyue Lake was stable. The Maple Leaf Huang Family had lost a Foundation Establishment cultivator, significantly reducing their arrogance.


    The Huang Family had a family residence and a market town, both requiring a Foundation Establishment cultivator to guard.


    While dealing with the Mu Family, their Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town had been attacked by a mysterious group, suffering considerable losses.


    On the other hand, the Ten Thousand Swords Zhuo Family and the Beast Taming Zhou Family had a small skirmish and reached an agreement.


    The two major families ceased hostilities.


    ¡°It''s good to hear things remain stable,¡± Lan Chang''an put away the letter, feeling quite pleased.


    A rtively stable situation in the cultivation world suited a cultivator like him, who had a long lifespan and nned to lead a stable life.


    If the cultivation world were to experience major upheaval, no one could escape unscathed, unless one did not rely on spiritual veins for cultivation and did not require any resources.


    ...


    ¡°I suggest that Qiaozhi uses the Bottleneck-Breaking Pill to advance to thete Qi-Refining stage as soon as possible. Although breakthrough pills might affect potential, an early breakthrough provides more time to slowly refine and polish her mana.¡±


    In the pavilion, Shi Manrong had resumed her dignified posture and made a suggestion.


    Although Guan Qiaozhi appeared young, she was actually forty-one years old.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an had advised her to avoid using breakthrough pills as much as possible.


    However, Guan Qiaozhi possessed only low-grade spiritual roots, with average aptitude, aside from her skillful hands, and thus was stuck at the sixthyer of Qi-Refining for many years.


    ¡°Fairy Shi makes a valid point. Age has a greater impact further down the line,¡± Lan Chang''an nced at Guan Qiaozhi, whose eyes were filled with anticipation, and relented today.


    He didn''t have any Bottleneck-Breaking Pill on hand, but this did not hinder Lan Chang''an.


    The next day, he went to the Little Pill Peak a few li away.


    Alchemist Lin Ye was very straightforward, selling him a Bottleneck-Breaking Pill at a friendly price.


    It was that simple.


    This was the qualitative change brought by his current cultivation, status, and connections.


    Back when he was in the Mu Family, he couldn¡¯t even hope to get ate-stage Qi-Refining breakthrough pill, but now he could obtain it effortlessly.


    Simrly, if he reached the Core Formation Realm, getting a Foundation Establishment pill for his descendants would be a piece of cake.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Guan Qiaozhi sessfully advanced to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, her mana increasing significantly.


    This step surpassed her master, Master Guan, who never advanced to thete stage of Qi-Refining in his lifetime.


    Guan Qiaozhi happily held a banquet to celebrate, inviting Shi Manrong and the steward of Wuqi Mountain, Lan Lin.


    Lan Chang''an, a grown man, ate a couple of bites before retreating from the festivities. He went off to y with the Profound Water Turtle instead.


    The turtle¡¯s true cultivation level was not far from thete first rank.


    It seemed slow, but the normal growth rate of a Profound Water Turtle was much slower than this.


    Behind him, light footsteps approached, apanied by a fragrance like night-blooming jasmine.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, have you considered marrying Qiaozhi and having children, or finding a formal Daopanion?¡± Shi Manrong asked curiously as she approached.


    She had interacted quite frequently with this neighbor recently, yet she still felt something inexplicably strange about Lan Chang''an.


    Clearly, as an inspiring seventy-year-old Foundation Establishment cultivator with low potential, he should be striving harder.


    However, Lan Chang''an lived a leisurely life, indifferent and tranquil, unmoved by honor or disgrace, with a very good mindset.


    This was not the first time Lan Chang''an had been asked such a question.


    ¡°The cultivation world is full of uncertainties. Foundation Establishment cultivators have only just gained a foothold, unlike Core Formation experts with magical powers and magic treasures. How can one dare to marry and have children?¡± Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    Shi Manrong pondered and nodded, ¡°Irgely agree with Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s view.¡±


    Due to her personal experiences, she also didn¡¯t want to marry or find a Daopanion.


    Their views were quite simr¡ªthey both advocated for remaining unmarried.


    ¡°However, regarding having children, I believe that bloodline is the inheritance and continuation of one¡¯s existence.¡± Saying this, she looked at the young man in white who was as gentle as jade.


    It seemed she realized this topic might be inappropriate, and her delicate features flushed slightly.


    Lan Chang''an felt it was strange: You want to have children, why discuss it with me?


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    The cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak received an uninvited guest.


    It was a haggard middle-aged man wearing a crown.


    ¡°Daoist Chen, no need to say more. I am very satisfied living on Little Turtle Peak and have no intention of subletting,¡± Lan Chang''an refused.


    The haggard middle-aged man was Shi Manrong¡¯s ex-husband, Chen Sheng.


    Lan Chang''an had seen him once when he first arrived at Wuqi Mountain.


    ¡°I have wronged Manrong, and sincerely wish to reconcile our rtionship. Thus, I would like to live as neighbors,¡± Chen Sheng said.


    ¡°Don¡¯tugh at me, Fellow Daoist Lan, but given Manrong''s talent and disposition today, there are many scheming suitors vying for her favor. I''m very concerned,¡± Chen Sheng smiled bitterly.


    Lan Chang''an remained unmoved. Even if he agreed, the other two peak masters might not be willing.


    ¡°Sigh,¡± Chen Sheng knew how difficult this request was, so he pleaded further, ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, your achievement of Foundation Establishment at your ancient age is inspiring and well-known in Huanglong Immortal City. I believe in your character, and hope that you will keep an eye out for any unsavory characters who may attempt to prey upon my wife while she resides here at Wuqi Mountain.¡±


    At this point, Lan Chang''an felt impatient but superficially agreed, ¡°Rest assured, Daoist Chen, I will try to help keep an eye out.¡±


    Finally, he managed to send this person away.


    ...


    Seven years flew by.


    This year, Lan Chang''an turned eighty.


    Wuqi Mountain, in the cave mansion¡¯s secret room on Little Turtle Peak. Two waves of spiritual pressure appeared one after another, their pressure increasing rapidly.

 Chapter 105: Breakthrough at Eighty

    First chapter of volume 3. Enjoy!


    In the secret room.


    Before the white-robed man meditating, a basket-sized spirit turtle, dark green in color was eagerly absorbing the lingering energy with its mouth wide open.


    The surface of the Profound Water Turtle''s shell glimmered with a bluish-green light resembling the veins of leaves.


    The magical power it emitted had surprisingly broken through its bottleneck, stepping into thete first rank. Simultaneously, the Evergreen mana within Lan Chang''an''s body grew by a slight amount.


    At the early stage of Foundation Establishment, taking even a small step forward would bring one''s cultivation to the second level of Foundation Establishment.


    "Advanced to Foundation Establishment at seventy years old, progressed cultivation by one level at eighty."


    Lan Chang''an looked pleased, feeling the depth of the manake in his dantian increase.


    To be honest, the cultivation progress of the Evergreen Technique during the Foundation Establishment stage wasn''t as slow as he had imagined. Back then, it took him nine years to advance from the eighth to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.Lan Chang''an spected: that consuming longevity-extending items had enhanced the power of the Evergreen Technique, thereby slightly elerating his progress.


    Referring to Zhao Siyao''s progress after Foundation Establishment, as a disciple of the sect with near-high grade spiritual roots, Zhao Siyao took twenty-seven to twenty-eight years at the early stage of Foundation Establishment before she advanced to the middle stage.


    The main reason was that she was stuck at the bottleneck of the third level of Foundation Establishment for many years. Her spiritual root qualifications didn''t hold much advantage after the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    After three days of consolidation, Lan Chang''an prepared to exit seclusion.


    "Stop dawdling, and suppress your aura fluctuations."


    He lightly tapped the Profound Water Turtle''s shell, producing a "bang" sound. It was quite hard.


    Lan Chang''an smiled, and the Profound Water Turtle''s head shrank in pain.


    The Profound Water Turtle had the innate ability to conceal its aura, it quickly retracted its aura to a normal level.


    In truth, if Lan Chang''an had increased the daily supply of Evergreen mana, the turtle''s growth could be further elerated, but he didn''t do that.


    The current cultivation speed of the Profound Water Turtle was already twice that of its peers; any more would be excessive.


    He had a long life ahead, with no partner or offspring. Raising this long-lived spirit turtle was a form ofpanionship. This turtle could pass the time, help with chores, and once grown, protect the mountain and guard the home. As for fighting enemies, he didn''t expect much.


    At present, the Earth Burrowing Rat was sufficient for fighting, along with puppets as cannon fodder.


    Lan Chang''an rose and carefully ced three treasure talismans into a spiritual wood box.


    He had nurtured these three talismans for seven to eight years. Originally, they were ordinary superior second-rank talismans. Now, the spiritual energy contained in the three treasure talismans had reached the peak of the second rank.


    Ordinary second-rank superior-grade talismans were equivalent to a single strike from ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    These three treasure talismans had transformed into premium-quality ones,parable to a full-force strike at the peak of the ninth level of Foundation Establishment.


    Second-rank superior-grade talismans were difficult toe by due to the scarcity of their raw materials. Lan Chang''an''s sess rate wasn''t too high in drawing them due to the limitations of his cultivation.


    "In a few decades, achieving the attack power of an ordinary talismanic treasure shouldn''t be difficult." Lan Chang''an evaluated based on the current trend, looking forward with anticipation.


    Unfortunately, he hadn''t acquired any second-rank superior-grade spirit wood in therge auction he attended over a few years ago.


    After this seclusion, he was determined to get some more treasure talismans. Ideally, it would be best to get some third-rank spirit wood.


    The better the material, the higher the power ceiling of the nurtured treasure talismans; given enough time, they might even rival the power of a Core Formation cultivator''s magic treasures.


    ...


    A few dayster, Guan Qiaozhi, sat on the back of the Profound Water Turtle, herughter crisp and clear.


    Although the Profound Water Turtle wasn''trge, it had the cultivation of thete first rank, making it no problem to carry a delicate female cultivator. However, due to its size and height limitations, Qiaozhi had to lift her legs higher and tuck them beneath herself.


    "Senior Brother Lan, do you want to try?"


    Her bright eyes sparkled, and a blush appeared on her delicate face as she leaned back, lifting her skirt and revealing a pair of fair, tender legs.


    This alluring sight was enough to make any normal man dry-mouthed.


    "This turtle isn''t mature yet, don''t overwork it." Lan Chang''an criticized, thinking that this young girl had impure thoughts, always hinting at temptation.


    Over the years, Guan Qiaozhi had diligently served Lan Chang''an, managing the Little Turtle Peak meticulously.


    She wanted a child to solidify her position. But each time her hopes were raised by anticipation, they were dashed by disappointment.


    Squeak! Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat came over, carrying a few letters in its mouth, moving swiftly as if in the wind.


    Lan Chang''an took the letters. One was from Li Erqing, and another from Zhang Tieshan.


    From Huanglong Immortal City to Wuqi Mountain, Li Erqing wrote to Lan Chang''an the most over the decades. Even if there was nothing significant, he would talk about cultivation and family matters.


    After entering the Foundation Establishment stage, Li Erqing''s progress was difficult.


    He had reached Foundation Establishment five or six years before Lan Chang''an and was two years younger. When writing this letter, his cultivation was still at the first level of Foundation Establishment.


    Lan Chang''an knew well Li Erqing''s aptitude and temperament; his advancement to Foundation Establishment had already broken his upper limit, leaving his potential exhausted, and making any progress would be difficult.


    He realized that his old friend, whom he had known since the awakening in this life, was likely to fall behind.


    ...


    Previously, Li Erqing relied on having children to gain some small opportunities.


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t envious, or jealous in the slightest. Compared to true children of destiny, Li Erqing''s little fortune was insignificant.


    In Great Qing, there had been a miracle of a cultivator with inferior spiritual roots reaching the Nascent Soul Realm within thest ten thousand years. This wasn''t something achievable through effort andbat alone. With great fortune, even a pig would soar above its era.


    Simr miracles urred in almost every era.


    "Mu Jiunan recently returned to Liang Kingdom? To visit his biological parents at Feiyue Lake."


    Lan Chang''an saw this piece of good news in the letter from Li Erqing.


    Mu Jiunan was the most talented among Li Erqing''s descendants. He had good fortune. Years ago, he triggered a rare treasure and was taken as a disciple by a mysterious cultivator from another kingdom.


    In return for raising him, Mu Jiunan sought a Foundation Establishment Pill for his father, along with some resources gifted by that Immortal, before leaving.


    Li Erqing mentioned in his letter that Mu Jiunan had be a disciple of a Core Formation elder in a Nascent Soul sect of Feng Kingdom.


    Feng Kingdom was a powerful cultivation kingdom in Great Qing, with three Nascent Soul-level forces.


    Now in his forties, Mu Jiunan had be a Foundation Establishment cultivator and had married the young granddaughter of that elder in the sect.


    "This kid has some skills."


    "I''ve heard that Mu Jiunan looked like me in his youth. I must see for myself this time." Lan Chang''an was somewhat interested.


    Mu Jiunan had been taken away at a young age; Lan Chang''an hadn''t seen him as he was in Huanglong Immortal City at that time.


    Li Erqing mentioned that he would have Mu Jiunan visit and pay respects to Lan Chang''an as his uncle.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an then opened Zhang Tieshan''s letter. The content was also rted to younger generations.


    Lin Yi''s son, Lin Lu, had been stuck at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining for nearly ten years and was now fifty-eight or fifty-nine years old.


    He had been preparing for Foundation Establishment for years. As a member of a sect, Lin Lu had better ess to Foundation Establishment Pills than loose cultivators.


    Zhang Tieshan suggested that Lin Yi''s four Foundation Establishment friends each contribute five hundred spirit stones or equivalent resources to assist with his Foundation Establishment.


    Obviously, these four Foundation Establishment friends were:


    Zhang Tieshan, Zhao Siyao, Lan Chang''an, and Li Erqing.


    Lan Chang''an recalled Lin Lu''s ups and downs, from an arrogant youth from the sect to falling from grace, then finding his stability in Huanglong Immortal City, where his mind was tempered.


    In Huanglong Immortal City, Lin Lu visited Lan Chang''an every year to pay his respects.


    "Brother Lin, though you died early, four Foundation Establishment cultivators are willing to step up for your son. Your spirit in heaven can rest easy."


    The matter of helping out in passing, Lan Chang''an didn''t mind lifting a hand out of old friendship.


    In truth, Zhang Tieshan was the one who did most of the work here. Achieving Foundation Establishment required more than just spirit stones; one needed connections within the sect as well.


    Lan Chang''an wrote a reply, asking Guan Qiaozhi to pass it to Lan Lin to send it to Jin Yun Valley.


    He believed Li Erqing would agree to help as well.


    Years ago, when Li Erqing prospered, he sent his son, Mu Ershun, to Huanglong Immortal City with some Foundation Establishment Pill materials, providing Lan Chang''an with a crucial auxiliary herb that hecked.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    A cloud-white flying boat carrying a couple entered the misty Wuqi Mountain.


    The man, wearing a feather robe, was handsome and upright, looking to be about twenty-five or twenty-six years old.


    The woman, in a feather dress, was petite with delicate features and short hair, looking youthful and vibrant, around eighteen or neen.


    "Brother Jiuan, I heard your Uncle Lan has a way of maintaining his youth. Although he reached Foundation Establishment in seventy, his ancient age, he still looks like a young man," the woman in feathers said curiously, herughter light and eyes bright.


    "Later on, I''ll have to see which one of you is younger and more handsome."


    "This still needs to bepared?" Mu Jiuan replied confidently as he arranged his white-feathered robes. He was only forty-two years old, after all, and had achieved Foundation Establishment early on, so he possessed an outward freshness that stemmed from within.


    "No matter how skilled Uncle Lan might be at maintaining his youth, signs of aging cannot be entirely avoided."


    "I suppose not." Yu Yufu tilted her head, gently taking her husband''s arm. As she gazed upon Mu Jiuan''s fair and elegant countenance, tranquil as jade, she felt inwardly satisfied.


    Seeing two Foundation Establishment cultivators approaching, steward Lan Lin bowed respectfully and asked, "Seniors, which main peak are you visiting?"


    Mu Jiuan exined their purpose, and they were escorted to Little Turtle Peak.


    ...


    "My master invites you two into the cave mansion."


    Guan Qiaozhi led the way for Mu Jiuan and his wife.


    Eyes surveying her surroundings, Yu Yufu took it all in: the spirit flowers and herbs nted on the mountain, the beautiful view of the pond, she found nothing surprising.


    "Earth-grade spiritual beast Profound Water Turtle? It''s a little different from the ones I saw before, the shell texture is a bit different." She saw the spirit turtle by the pond,zily basking in the sun.


    Individuals raising Profound Water Turtles were rare in the cultivation world.


    "A second-rank demonic rat?" She spotted a robust rat shing past a nearby cave entrance.


    Based on these two spirit pets alone, Yu Yufu had already formed an intuition that this Uncle Lan was no ordinary cultivator.


    The interior of the cave mansion was elegant and refined. In the main hall where sandalwood fragrance drifted gently, a man dressed in white stood with his hands sped behind his back.


    Yu Yufu''s almond eyes widened involuntarily, their depths glimmering brightly at the sight. The man in white possessed a handsome, spirited countenance as gentle as jade, radiating a tranquil serenity that seemed to have been baptized by the passage of time.


    At first nce, the back of the man gave her the illusion of facing arge tree in the sky.


    "There is some resemnce."


    Yu Yufu''s surprise wasn''t at this Uncle Lan''s youthful appearance but rather how it was her husband, Mu Jiu''an, whose appearance and temperament somewhat resembled the other. Howeverpared to him, the husband she had always admired seemed almost like a counterfeit.


    Though there wasn''t much difference between the two physically, that indescribable difference in their temperament was especially pronounced whenpared side-by-side.


    "Little Nephew Mu Jiuan brings his Daoist partner to greet Uncle Lan." Mu Jiuan bowed slightly.


    "Junior Yu Yufu greets Uncle Lan." Yu Yufu hastily withdrew her gaze and bowed, saying softly.

 Chapter 106: Making Arrangements Ahead of Time

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Nephew Jiuan, you truly possess outstanding talent and appearance. Uncle Lan has heard about you for a long time."


    Lan Chang''an smiled as he observed the handsome man in feathered robes. Mu Jiuan had outstanding looks and temperament, his eyes bore a resemnce to his birth mother, Mu Caiwei, to some extent.


    It was said that Mu Jiuan had delicate features since childhood, not looking much like Li Erqing, which made him disfavored by his father. Only after discovering his remarkable spiritual roots did Li Erqing pay him any attention.


    Li Erqing''s favorite son had always been Mu Ershun, who seemed almost cast from the same mold as his younger self.


    In the cultivation realm, it was difficult for someone to wear another''s green hat. Even low-level cultivators could vaguely sense whether someone was their own bloodline descendant or not. Certain Blood Dao techniques could allow one to sense their bloodline descendants within a certain range.


    One reason Lan Chang''an didn''t consider taking a wife or having children was because doing so would leave him vulnerable.


    ...


    "I heard that Uncle Lan is a second-rank talisman master. This bottle ofte second-rank Yellow Ox Blood can be used to create spiritual ink for talismans. It''s a small token of your nephew''s appreciation."Mu Jiuan smiled calmly and handed over a blood bottle.


    "Nephew Jiuan is very considerate."


    Lan Chang''an epted the bottle, his tone friendly.


    Mu Jiuan indeed lived up to being a disciple of a Nascent Soul-level sect''s elder, with a generous gesture.


    It''s a pity it wasn''t a power inside the Liang Kingdom. Otherwise, this connection could have been beneficial for Lan Chang''an.


    The two exchanged pleasantries and took their seats, while Guan Qiaozhi poured tea. Lan Chang''an chatted with Mu Jiuan and his wife, Yu Yufu, inquiring about the cultivation world in Feng Kingdom. Most of the conversation consisted of Lan Chang''an asking questions and Mu Jiuan answering, with Yu Yufu asionally adding a word or two.


    Mu Jiuan was neither humble nor arrogant, disying good manners. However, Lan Chang''an noticed that Mu Jiuan''s respect and politeness were superficial, almost perfunctory. Mu Jiuan showed little interest in deepening the rtionship with him.


    Lan Chang''an could understand this.


    Setting aside the seniority aspect, Mu Jiuan was also an early Foundation Establishment cultivator and a favored disciple of an elder of a Nascent Soul-level faction. Not only that, Mu Jiuan even managed to woo the Core Formation elder''s granddaughter, making their rtionship doubly familial.


    Mu Jiuan''s status was far above Lan Chang''an''s who was a wandering Foundation Establishment cultivator. Without familial affection, Mu Jiuan naturallycked respect and felt distant towards him.


    "Jiuan, how did youe to Liang this time?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    Crossing the borders of cultivation kingdoms was a long journey, potentially facing threats from robbers. This was the main reason Mu Jiuan hadn''t returned for many years.


    "My master is visiting ''Wangyue Immortal City'' near Liang''s border this time. I came along to gain some experience and took the opportunity to make a visit." Mu Jiuan replied.


    Lan Chang''an had heard of Wangyue Immortal City, located on a fourth-rank spiritual vein. Although it was on Liang''s border, it was not governed by any neighboring nations. It was arge, neutral immortal city, influencing several surrounding cultivation kingdoms, with a very mysterious background.


    "Uncle Lan, your nephew is out for a limited time and cannot stay for long."


    Within less than half an hour, Mu Jiuan took his leave.


    Lan Chang''an did not try to keep them and saw the two off outside his cave residence. He guessed that Mu Jiuan felt distant not only from him but also from this homnd. Mu Jiuan was already over forty and had spent more time in Feng Kingdom than anywhere else, forming a Daoist partnership there and finding contentment in settling down.


    ...


    Mu Jiuan and Yu Yufu left Little Turtle Peak, flying out of Wuqi Mountain.


    "Jiuan, this Uncle Lan seems interesting. Why didn''t you chat a bit more?" Yu Yufu seemed reluctant to leave. She felt Lan Chang''an was not an ordinary cultivator, but unfortunately, their time together was limited, she couldn''t get to know him better.


    "If it weren''t for my father''s insistence, I wouldn''t havee at all." Mu Jiuan''s tone was nd.


    "In Liang, besides a few rtives at Feiyue Lake, there''s nothing worthwhile for me to remember."


    "This is your homnd. It''s hard toe back, so you should cherish it a bit." Yu Yufu took his arm.


    "Cherish? My father''s favorite son will always be Ershun, even though I obtained a Foundation Establishment Pill for him back then." Mu Jiuan''s handsome face showed a hint of loneliness.


    "Ershun''s aptitude is so poor, yet my father still wants to help him establish a foundation, asking me, his younger brother, to lend a hand. This time, at least half of the resources I''m honoring him with will go directly to Ershun."


    Yu Yufu blinked her pretty eyes: "Your father is indeed biased, but it''s because you don''t look like him."


    "I think you resemble Uncle Lan a bit in terms of appearance and temperament?"


    Mu Jiuan''s expression froze.


    "Sigh, back then, when you helped obtain that Foundation Establishment Pill for your father, you repaid the grace of raising you. There''s no need to dwell on it." Seeing her husband''s displeasure, Yu Yufu changed the topic.


    The pair flew out of Wuqi Mountain, a middle-aged Foundation Establishment cultivator with a haggard face crossed paths with them. The middle-aged cultivator was Chen Sheng, Shi Manrong''s ex-husband.


    ...


    Chen Sheng flew directly towards Little Turtle Peak, one of the three main peaks.


    The steward Lan Lin noticed him but did not approach.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Chen has something to discuss." Chen Sheng shouted loudly in front of Little Turtle Peak.


    "Senior Chen, my master is in seclusion and will not receive visitors for some time." Guan Qiaozhi showed a polite smile.


    "Chen doesn''t believe it! You quickly go and inform him this is thest time I''lle to him." Chen Sheng frowned, his tone displeased.


    Guan Qiaozhi did not respond. His heart surged with an inexplicable fury as he released the pressure of Foundation Establishment, intending to force his way inside


    Guan Qiaozhi was so frightened that her face lost its colors, her hands clutching themand token as she activated the mountain''s protective formation, blocking Chen Sheng at the gate.


    "Chen Sheng!"


    A cold reprimand came from the direction of Xiao Pan Peak.


    "Manrong, it was my mistake. I acted impulsively just now, but I did all this for you." Chen Sheng immediately shed an earnest smile.


    "You still haven''t scrammed?"


    "Yes, yes! I''ll scram right away." Still reluctant to depart, Chen Sheng gazed longingly at that enchanting silhouette.


    ...


    After Chen Sheng flew out of Wuqi Mountain.


    Shi Manrong, in a simple dress, flew to Little Turtle Peak.


    She spoke softly: "Fellow Daoist Lan, I caused you trouble just now."


    "No harm done, he was only scaring the little girl, he wouldn''t dare to actually barge in uninvited." Lan Chang''an walked out of his cave.


    To Wuqi Mountain, Chen Sheng was considered a nuisance¡ªa man who refused to let go, clinging desperately to his ex-wife in hopes of winning her back. The man was almost neurotic, always worrying his ex-wife would start seeing someone else.


    Seven years ago, Chen Sheng first sought out Lan Chang''an, asking him to watch over his ex-wife, keeping an eye out for any miscreants.


    Lan Chang''an perfunctorily agreed.


    In the following years, Chen Sheng visited multiple times. He requested Lan Chang''an to create opportunities for his ex-wife to reconsider. He even begged Lan Chang''an to persuade her.


    Exhausted by these bothersome requests, Lan Chang''an stopped responding to Chen Sheng entirely, just as the other two peak masters did.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an had some understanding of the grievances between Shi Manrong and Chen Sheng over the years.


    Shi Manrong''s family was destroyed when she was young, and she had been engaged to marry Chen Sheng, the young master of the Chen Family.


    The Chen Family''s ancestor was willing to keep his word, so he took Shi Manrong under his wing with ns to fulfill the engagement when the time came.


    But at that time, Chen Sheng hadn''t cared for her at all. Firstly, Chen Sheng already had a favorite female cultivator. Secondly, the young Shi Manrong wasn''t particrly attractive.


    Fortunately, Shi Manrong''s exceptional talent in formations yed a role in the family, preventing her from being bullied.


    Later, under the Chen ancestor''s pressure, Chen Sheng reluctantly took her in as his wife but treated her coldly.


    A few years after the ancestor''s death, Chen Sheng demoted Shi Manrong to concubine and wedded the female cultivator that he liked instead.


    Shi Manrong could not stand it any longer.


    In a fit of rage, she left the Chen Family, leveraging her formation talents and seizing opportunities, she advanced to Foundation Establishment earlier than her ex-husband.


    With her cultivation greatly improved, Shi Manrong''s appearance and temperament became outstanding, gaining fame in the surrounding neighborhood as the genius formation master¡ªFairy Shi.


    The Chen Family declined over the decades after Shi Manrong left. Chen Sheng, to establish his foundation, mortgaged and sold the family''s second-rank spiritual vein. Over the years, the only remaining line of cultivators from the Chen Family resided in a first-rank high-grade spiritual vein.


    Chen Sheng himself was without a second-rank spiritual environment to cultivate in.


    Upon seeing the reborn Shi Manrong, Chen Sheng was astonished and sought to rekindle their rtionship, hoping to move to Wuqi Mountain to cultivate alongside her.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, to express my apologies, Manrong will host a banquet at my residence tofort the frightened Qiaozhi." Shi Manrong''s hair was elegantly tied, her demeanor dignified, with a smile in her clear eyes.


    She specifically mentioned Guan Qiaozhi. They had known each other for seven or eight years.


    Shi Manrong asionally visited Little Turtle Peak, initially to observe the mysterious formations there. Over time, Lan Chang''an and this elegant Fairy Shi became quite familiar. Their philosophies were verypatible.


    Both ced importance on cultivation, believing skills were necessary to protect one''s path, and held opinions regarding romantic rtionships rather lightly; neither desired a Daoist partner nor marriage. Whenever their conversations took ce, both parties left feeling satisfied.


    Lan Chang''an also admired this woman quite a bit¡ªespecially her noble and unsullied demeanor, which emanated from enduring hardship and suffering like the fragrance of plum blossoms.


    A few years ago, Shi Manrong invited Lan Chang''an to visit her residence, but out of concern that Chen Sheng might hold grudges against him, Lan Chang''an declined due to his ownziness in involving himself further. Even still, Chen Sheng persisted in his pursuit, perhaps seeing Lan Chang''an as a good-natured pacifist.


    "Senior Brother Lan?" Guan Qiaozhi''s charming eyes flickered slightly, hinting at some interest.


    "All right." Lan Chang''an nodded. This time, taking Guan Qiaozhi along should dispel any suspicions.


    Shi Manrong was a genius when it came to formations and was expected to be a third-rank formation master in the future. Lan Chang''an dly befriended her.


    ...


    Xiao Pan Peak.


    Shi Manrong''s cave mansion was tastefully decorated and filled with fragrant flowers and the chirping of birds. Servants brought out dish after dish of exquisite spiritual food.


    "This is the two-hundred-year-old Green Plum Spirit Wine from my humble collection, it''s beneficial to both men and women." Graceful andposed, Shi Manrong poured it for the both of them.


    "Green Plum Spirit Wine?" Guan Qiaozhi''s eyes sparkled with delight; she had heard this wine had the effect of beautifying the face, nourishing yin, and helping with fertility. Excited by these prospects, she inadvertently drank several cups too many.


    In her excitement, she underestimated the strength of this second-rank spiritual wine, unwittingly bing intoxicated before falling asleep.


    Two serving girls stepped forward to escort Guan Qiaozhi to a side room where she could rest.


    "Fairy Shi, your Green Plum Spirit Wine tastes somewhat different from the usual one." Lan Chang''an took another sip. There were no harmful toxins, but its medicinal effects were slightly unusual.


    He met the gaze of Shi Manrong''s clear, limpid eyes, and they exchanged a nce that held tacit understanding.


    "What is it about it that differs?"


    The soft, melodious voice sounded like clear water flowing past his ears. Lan Chang''an suddenly felt that the Fairy Shi before him seemed particrly beautiful, dignified yet pure, gentle yet alluring, making him feel the urge to get close to her.


    This wasn''t a love potion. It was rather a natural aphrodisiac contained within spiritual wine.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, do you find me beautiful?"


    Dressed in robes of moonlight, Shi Manrong possessed elegant bearing and curves that were full and rounded. She sat before Lan Chang''an, gently leaning against him, her face framed like a silver disk with a faint blush.


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense had already swept across the cave mansion, finding nothing out of the ordinary. The two had known each other for seven or eight years; their views aligned, and they admired one another greatly. If this was merely to spice up a short-lived rtionship, there would be no harm.


    "Has Fairy Shi considered this clearly?" Lan Chang''an asked as he wrapped his arms around her waist.


    Shi Manrong lifted her skirt, gracefully turning on the spot, her supple and well-rounded derri¨¨re sitting firmly upon hisp.


    "What do you mean ''considered''? Does Fellow Daoist Lan fear I''ll cling to him?" Shi Manrong chuckled softly, her chest rising and falling.


    Lan Chang''an lowered his voice. "Let me make it clear beforehand: I will not sire children."


    Shi Manrong fell silent, her smile fading.


    Suddenly, she lifted one long leg in an elegant arc, thennded from Lan Chang''an''s body, smoothing her skirts as she returned to her refined and dignified demeanor.


    Lan Chang''an blinked, wondering if he might have been too straightforward?

 Chapter 107: Capturing by Letting Go

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    The two had manymon viewpoints. The only differencey in their views on continuing their bloodline.


    Lan Chang''an, being a person with a long lifespan with the possibility of reincarnation, did not care about this. Unless he became immensely powerful, reaching the peak of a world, he wouldn''t consider it.


    But for ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators, with slim chances of forming a core and limited lifespan, they considered bloodline continuation important.


    Therefore, Lan Chang''an made it clear in advance.


    Shi Manrong''s gaze was serene as she looked at the indifferent and elegant man in white.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you are so straightforward that it is disappointing!"


    She lightly bit her red lips and said angrily:


    "Are you truly content to take advantage of me without any hint ofpassion?" Lan Chang''an thought to himself, isn''t this a mutual agreement? Who is taking advantage of whom?


    In his eyes, Fairy Shi was a solitary female cultivator who did not wish to find a Daopanion, someone with whom he could converse amicably and reciprocate mutual affection, thus alleviating feelings of loneliness temporarily.


    There was no discussion of romantic attachment or Daopanion, nor any entanglement between them.


    This was the only reason why Lan Chang''an did not refuse. Of course, it helped that it was a beautiful female cultivator he somewhat appreciated and waspatible with.


    "I''ll go check on Qiaozhi."


    Lan Chang''an didn''t mind and got up.


    Shi Manrong stared at him, smiling brightly, her face as radiant as the morning glow.


    She took light steps and hugged Lan Chang''an from behind.


    Her voice was soft and charming: "Fellow Daoist Lan, you''re overthinking it. I still have a long life ahead and haven''t thought about having offspring so soon."


    Lan Chang''an''s body tensed slightly, feeling the voluptuous curves of the beauty.


    Shi Manrong didn''t know how dangerous her action was at that moment. The man she hugged had a physiqueparable to a mid second-rank demon beast. If Lan Chang''an reacted too violently, this delicate body pressed close to him might shatter instantly.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, your words just now were quite hurtful." Shi Manrong, looking pitiful, hooked his arm and slowly leaned her head against him.


    Lan Chang''an smelled the rich fragrance of night-blooming jasmine. Then, he felt a slight warmth on his cheek as Fairy Shi kissed him lightly like a dragonfly touching water. Unconsciously, Lan Chang''an held Fairy Shi in his arms, getting closer to each other.


    The moon outside the cave mansion was momentarily covered by dark clouds.


    After a cup of tea''s time.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, there will be many more opportunities; please stop now."


    Shi Manrong seemed to gasp for breath after being smothered, letting out a long, fragrant sigh, her face flushed with enticing allure. At this moment, her hair was disheveled, her dress was in disarray.


    A slightly raised leg had a shoe slipped off, revealing a jade foot wrapped in white silk stockings.


    "You were the one being proactive, and now you''re telling me to stop?" Lan Chang''an silently cursed to himself, the palm that slid lower on the beauty''s waist was shoved away. With his strength, restraining her would have been effortless.


    But Lan Chang''an sought mutual consent, good beginnings, and good endings, never forcing a woman''s will.


    Shi Manrong bent down to put on her embroidered shoe, her graceful curves showing.


    She tidied her dress and hair, returning to her dignified and elegant appearance, giving Lan Chang''an an apologetic smile.


    "I''ll make some sobering tea."


    "Mm."


    Lan Chang''an understood now.


    He had to admit, Fairy Shi was very good at the art of ''capturing by letting go,'' giving a little sweetness, then keeping a distance.


    Today, she didn''t n to give in fully.


    It had nothing to do with his disappointing words earlier.


    Previously, Shi Manrong sat on hisp and then left on some pretext, it was all part of creating the suspenseful allure of fleeting beauty, instilling in him a sense of urgency.


    Such tactics, like baiting fish, indeed easily hooked men''s appetites. As long as their status wasn''t too lofty, most male cultivators would be manipted easily.


    Unfortunately, Lan Chang''an wasn''t an ordinary person. In his long cultivation career, even if he spent a few years fawning over Fairy Shi, it would just be a minor episode in his lengthy life.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an drank a sip of spiritual tea calmly.


    Then he went to the adjacent room and picked up the sleeping Guan Qiaozhi.


    "Fairy Shi, thank you for your hospitality today."


    Lan Chang''an took his leave.


    Shi Manrong watched his back, a hint of surprise shing in her clear eyes, then fell into thought.


    "Lan Chang''an is not only indifferent to love between men and women and can also control himself." Shi Manrong knew that with her previous tactics, an ordinary man would have been impatient.


    They would either reveal their true feelings and offer incentives, or resort to crude coercion, both methods ultimately leading to disappointment if unsessful


    This showed that Lan Chang''an''s temperament and character were different from ordinary men.


    ...


    The next morning.


    Guan Qiaozhi woke up early to attend to Lan Chang''an''s daily needs.


    "Senior Brother Lan, you and Sister Shi make a good match, both Foundation Establishment cultivators with second-rank skills. You can support each other on the path to the Dao." Guan Qiaozhi''s eyes were slightly red, hesitating for a long time before speaking.


    "Sister Shi can be your official Daopanion, and I can be your concubine or maid, as long as I can stay." Guan Qiaozhi wasn''t a fool; she had some guesses about what had happenedst night when she was asleep drunk.


    Lan Chang''an was dumbfounded,forting her:


    "I won''t marry a wife or form a Daopanionship. Even if I had the idea, your priority would be higher than hers." Lan Chang''an was dumbfounded, andforted her.


    "Really?"


    Guan Qiaozhi''s eyes brightened with unexpected joy.


    Lan Chang''an nodded affirmatively.


    Guan Qiaozhi was entrusted by Master Guan, and she had served him diligently for many years, helping him with talisman making and managing the cave mansion.


    She could be considered someone close at hand whom he trusted implicitly. How could a possible fleeting romance with Shi Manrongpare?


    Lan Chang''an resumed his routine cultivation.


    Guan Qiaozhi went outside the cave mansion to tend to the flowers and nts, directing two spirit pets to work.


    Half an hourter.


    Shi Manrong visited, dressed in a lotus leaf long skirt, looking fresh and noble.


    Lan Chang''an finished his cultivation and walked out of the cave mansion.


    At the pavilion by the pond, the two sat down and chatted.


    "I spent the entire night tossing and turning." Shi Manrong sighed softly, her face indeed showing a bit of fatigue.


    "Fairy Shi, do you have something on your mind?" Lan Chang''an remained calm. Shi Manrong''s actionsst night must have been done with a request in mind.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, it was rude of mest night. Could you let me stay at your mansion for a few nights to make amends?"


    Shi Manrong''s gaze was gentle, her voice pleading.


    Staying at his mansion for a few nights? Lan Chang''an instantly understood her intention. Wishful thinking!


    "To avoid suspicion, I don''t let female cultivators stay overnight, especially beauties like Fairy Shi."


    Lan Chang''an refused.


    "Can Ie during the day?"


    "No."


    "You... are really heartless."


    Shi Manrong took a deep breath, speaking with resentment.


    Recallingst night, Lan Chang''an was so close to her, entwined together for a long time, taking advantage of her quite thoroughly...


    Today, however, when it came to the formation, he was unyielding.


    "Fairy Shi, is my mansion''s formation really that important to you?"


    Lan Chang''an was puzzled and couldn''t understand.


    The formation, derived from an ancient third-rank formation, was at most strong among second-rank formations.


    For a formation genius like Shi Manrong, while attractive, it couldn''t be so captivating as to warrant such obsessive infatuation.


    Due to personal safety and privacy, he couldn''t let her study it.


    When Lan Chang''an reached mid Foundation Establishment and his treasure talismans were nurtured for many years more, the formation''s importance would diminish.


    "That formation rtes to a bottleneck I face in formation Dao."


    Shi Manrong exined with an elegant smile.


    Lan Chang''an was skeptical; the reason seemed far-fetched. He had some knowledge of the formation Dao.


    ...


    In the following months.


    On Little Turtle Peak, several puppets appeared, all mid to low-grade first-rank.


    Guan Qiaozhi controlled the puppets, making work easier and faster on the mountain.


    At this time, Lan Chang''an had studied the puppet inheritance for nearly ten years, his skills had reached superior-grade first-rank.


    He proceeded with caution, only revealing his abilities gradually.


    Mid to low-grade first-rank puppets had weakbat power but were attractive to nearby wandering cultivators if priced reasonably. Additionally, they could be bundled with second-rank talismans for sale, covering costs while generating some profit.


    Second-rank talismans were scarce; Little Turtle Peak had high demand and limited supply. After all, he was the only one making talismans, so the quantity had to be reasonable and not excessively high.


    "At this rate, within twenty years, my puppet skills could reach second rank."


    Lan Chang''an''s talent in puppetry might even surpass his talisman skills. His powerful spiritual sense, nearly at thete Foundation Establishment, added significantly to this.


    Lan Chang''an had refined three superior-grade first-rank puppets, but they were already useless for his current cultivation and physical strength. So he left them to Guan Qiaozhi for self-defense.


    ...


    On one particr day, Zhang Tieshan visited Lan Chang''an to borrow some spirit stones for Lin Lu''s Foundation Establishment.


    Lan Chang''an produced two hundred spirit stones and some other materials necessary for Foundation Establishment, totaling five hundred spirit stones.


    The five hundred spirit stones lent were indeed risky.


    If Lin Lu sessfully reached Foundation Establishment, repaying the debt would be no issue.


    However, if his attempt failed, he would sustain massive damage to his vital energy and rack up staggering amounts of debt. Even if he wished to repay it afterward, it would take many years. In the worst-case scenario, should he unfortunately perish during the process, the debt would be lost forever.


    Although the Foundation Establishment Pill could strengthen the meridians around the dantian region, it only greatly reduced the risk by no means eliminating it entirely. If the aspirant experienced qi deviation or forcefully attempted to break through, there was still a chance they might perish.


    Old age increased the risk due to the body''s natural decline. Fortunately, Lin Lu had yet to reach sixty, so as long as he didn''t invite disaster upon himself, the likelihood of him perishing was rtively low.


    "Brother Zhang, what methods can I use to acquire third-rank spirit wood?" Lan Chang''an asked casually.


    Zhang Tieshan''s response came with new information: Other than Qingzhu Sect, ces like Wangyue Immortal City, the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, and other regions also yielded stable supplies of third-rank spirit wood.


    Wangyue Immortal Cityy on the border of Liang and was a major trade center among several neighboring countries.


    There was a collection of Core Formation Immortals there, and even traces of Nascent Soul experts could be seen asionally.


    The journey to Wangyue Immortal City was long, and the surrounding areas were home to formidable rogue cultivators with terrifying strength.


    The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm was a secret realm within the cultivation world of Liang, opening once every fifty years. The secret realm maintains the original appearance of the ancient past and contains many precious materials, including the main ingredients for Foundation Establishment Pills and Life Extension Pills.


    In addition to opportunities forte Foundation Establishment breakthroughs, the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm also housed numerous Core Formation-level spirit objects. Third-rank spirit wood had been known to flow out from this realm many times.


    Only those below the rank of an Immortal could enter the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, and the next opening would not be for another decade or more.


    "Wangyue Immortal City has Core Formation and Nascent Soul Immortals. If something should go wrong, my fate will no longer be mine to control."


    "The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm requires Foundation Establishment cultivators to enter and fight each other, it''s unsuitable for me." For now, Lan Chang''an temporarily abandoned these two options.


    ...


    Half a yearter at Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an turned eighty-one and entered his octogenarian years.


    The Huanglong Immortal City hosted anotherrge auction.


    This time, Lan Chang''an disguised himself as one of the mysterious attendees, participating in the auction under this persona, fearing that purchasing multiple second-rank Life Extension Pills and second-rank superior-grade spirit wood would raise suspicion.


    Fortunately for Lan Chang''an, he was able to acquire both a second-rank Life Extension Pill and second-rank superior-grade spirit wood during this auction.


    Unfortunately, however, he had very few spirit stones remaining, forcing him to sell some talismans.


    The second-rank spirit wood he acquired possessed slightly inferior spirituality but was several times thicker than Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that even if the lower spirituality reduced the sess rate by a bit, it should still be sufficient to craft five or six treasure talisman prototypes.


    As for third-rank spirit wood, there were no new developments from the Huanglong Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an wrote a letter to Qingzhu Sect, asking old Chen Fuhai about the situation.

 Chapter 108: A Sharp Contrast

    Half a monthter, Lan Chang''an returned to Wuqi Mountain, back to his cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak.


    He consumed the second second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    ¡°Life Extended by eighteen years.¡±


    ¡°The 436 years of total lifespan in the Foundation Establishment Realm.¡±


    Lan Chang''an''s lifespan was abundant. Compared to longevity, the enhancement of the Evergreen Technique''s mana made him even more excited as it directly affected his strength.


    Even if it only enhanced a little each time. Over time, with many repetitions, one day it couldpete with the core techniques of the cultivation sects.


    After taking the Life Extension Pill, Lan Chang''an used the newly obtained second-rank superior-grade spirit wood to make talisman embryos and drew them into treasure talismans.


    Because he had to wait for the first life''s soul imprint to recover, he could only make them once every two months.


    ... A yearter. In the secret room of Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged.


    On the spirit wood table in front of him, nine treasure talismans wereid out in a three-by-three arrangement.


    He released the Evergreen Technique''s mana from his body, simultaneously enveloping the nine treasure talismans, nurturing them with ease.


    The process of nourishing treasure talismans required no bursts of mana, only sustained effort. Coincidentally, Lan Chang''an¡¯s Evergreen Technique endowed him with longsting magical power and strong recovery abilities. With his current cultivation, he estimated that nurturing twenty to thirty treasure talismans simultaneously would not be problematic.


    ¡°If I consume lifespan to nurture the treasure talismans with the Evergreen Technique, what would the effect be?¡±


    Lan Chang''an had this thought.


    However, he didn¡¯t want to casually consume his lifespan. Roughly estimating, it could speed up the nurturing process or enhance the spirituality and quality of the treasure talismans. It also might have negative results.


    Lan Chang''an currently faced no crises; his physical body wasparable to a mid second-rank beast, and he possessed a batch of second-rank superior-grade talismans, including some initially nurtured treasure talismans.


    He possessed ample power to protect himself under normal circumstances. Unless absolutely necessary, he wouldn''t consider employing such a tactic.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    A Foundation Establishment aura passed through the clouds of Wuqi Mountain, reaching the front of Little Turtle Peak.


    The visitor was a lean middle-aged man with fair skin and a short beard.


    ¡°Senior¡­¡±


    Guan Qiaozhi bowed, her charming eyes suddenly focused.


    ¡°You are¡­ Lin Lu?¡±


    She recognized his identity and eximed in surprise.


    It had been over ten years since she left Huanglong Immortal City with Lan Chang''an.


    Lin Lu smiled, ¡°Aunt Guan, please inform Uncle Lan.¡±


    Aunt Guan?


    Guan Qiaozhi''s face turned red, feeling embarrassed to be addressed like this by a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    She pursed her lips, then cheerfully said, ¡°Your Uncle Lan is not in seclusion,e with me.¡±


    At the pavilion, by the lotus pond Lan Chang''an was enjoying tea, not surprised by Lin Lu¡¯s visit after his Foundation Establishment as he''d received word about a month ago.


    ¡°Little nephew Lin Lu greets Uncle Lan.¡±


    The middle-aged Lin Lu walked into the pavilion, looking at the ageless white-robed man in front of him.


    He took a deep breath, and bowed deeply, almost ny degrees.


    There was a stark contrast between Mu Jiuan and Lin Lu¡¯s attitudes as Foundation Establishment juniors paying their respects.


    Lan Chang''an stood up and invited Lin Lu to sit.


    ¡°Little Lu, you look much more handsome since thest time we met.¡±


    Thest time Lan Chang''an saw Lin Lu, he was still a young man in his thirties.


    Even with the support of four seniors, Lin Lu had been busy nning for the Foundation Establishment pill these years.


    ¡°Not as much as Uncle Lan, who practices health-nourishing techniques.¡±


    Lin Lu respectfully took the teacup handed by Guan Qiaozhi.


    He envied Lan Chang''an¡¯s ageless appearance, as he didn''t have the surplus to purchase a Youth Retaining Pill.


    Lan Chang''an''s ageless appearance was no secret and didn¡¯t need to be hidden. This was the unfathomable cultivation realm, not the mundane martial arts world. There were numerous methods by which one could dy aging, including the consumption of second-rank Youth Retaining Pill, which cost half the price of a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Alternatively, taking a first-rank Beauty Pill every few years could also achieve near agelessness. However, lower-level cultivators struggling to establish foundations couldn¡¯t afford such luxuries.


    Besides elixirs, wood-element health techniques, rejuvenation techniques, and certain demonic techniques could also significantly dy aging, even granting eternal youth.


    There was also a heaven-defying method, if one cultivated quickly enough, increasing their longevity at a rate far exceeding the speed of biological aging, they too could achieve a simr effect. Only those blessed with great destiny could seed via this route.


    ...


    ¡°Uncle Lan, this time I specially came to repay my debt and return the owed spirit stones.¡±


    Lin Lu took out a bag of spirit stones and a jar of second-rank spirit wine.


    ¡°You just established your foundation, where did you get the spirit stones?¡±


    Lan Chang''an was surprised.


    He thought Lin Lu would need to work hard for a few years after establishing his foundation to repay the debt.


    This time, not only did he repay the spirit stones, but he also brought a jar of second-rank spirit wine worth at least two hundred spirit stones.


    ¡°After my foundation establishment, my wife''s family learned about it and proactively provided support.¡±


    Lin Lu blushed slightly, exining the reason.


    Lan Chang''an understood immediately.


    Lin Lu¡¯s wife, Li Qiumei¡¯s cultivation family, had a Foundation Establishment ancestor nearing the end of their life. Now, her cultivation family instead sought favor with Lin Lu, their son-inw.


    Lin Lu then shared the details of this Foundation Establishment. Lin Lu, being a disciple of a sect, had an easier time obtaining a Foundation Establishment pillpared to loose cultivators.


    Zhang Tieshan helped to find an alchemist within the sect to make the pill, as well as a cooperative party.


    A Xuanling Fruit or special demon core was not too difficult for the upper echelons of the sect to acquire.


    Some big shots, when refining pills for their descendants, only needed to provide the key ingredients while other materials were supplied by coborators.


    Lin Lu was lucky this time; three standard pills were produced.


    With the help of four Foundation Establishment seniors, he had the second priority of the pills.


    Lin Lu''s spirit root aptitude was near mid-grade, and at under sixty years old, taking a Foundation Establishment pill, sess or failure was within normal expectations.


    Having experienced great ups and downs, his resolve was strong and didn¡¯t hold him back.


    For mid-grade and low spiritual roots, the Foundation Establishment Pill¡¯s influence was significant. Only those with Earth Spirit Roots and above weren¡¯t reliant on the pill.


    Those with Earth Spirit Roots had a natural 50% sess rate and were often made core disciples of sects, given advanced techniques, further boosting their Foundation Establishment chances.


    Such favored individuals lived in different circles, easily obtaining Foundation Establishment pills.


    ¡°Little Lu, after this Foundation Establishment, the benefits left by your father are exhausted. You must tread carefully and strive for perfection.¡±


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an advised.


    ¡°Little nephew understands. I will always remember the kindness of all the elders and repay it one day.¡±


    Lin Lu bowed.


    ...


    Monthster.


    Lan Chang''an finally received a letter from Chen Fuhai from the Qingzhu Sect.


    Unfolding the map of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    The me Departing Pce upied the center with a fourth-tier spiritual vein.


    Jin Yun Valley was in the west, and Qingzhu Sect was in the east, far apart.


    Wuqi Mountain, located in the central-western region, was rtively far from the Qingzhu Sect.


    In the letter, Chen Fuhai responded about the third-rank spirit bamboo.


    ¡°Qingzhu Sect indeed has third-rank spirit bamboo, not in small quantities, but it''s difficult to get them until they are approved by the elders.¡±


    ¡°Second-rank superior-grade spirit bamboo, Chen Fuhai can promise to get one or two.¡±


    ¡°If you insist on third-rank spirit bamboo, should I go to Qingzhu Sect to discuss it?¡±


    After reading the letter, Lan Chang''an found a new breakthrough point.


    To acquire third-rank spirit bamboo, Chen Fuhai mentioned he had to go to Qingzhu Sect to discuss.


    There might be some taboos and special operations that couldn''t be explicitly stated in the letter.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a long time whether to visit Qingzhu Sect.


    He had concerns:


    The journey to Qingzhu Sect was far, affecting his cultivation, and might not seed.


    Importantly, Chen Fuhai, a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator, was someone he had only met once, without much trust.


    Back in the ck Fog Mountain Range, they almost fought over a special demon core. This showed that Chen Fuhai¡¯s character was not noble. If it were someone trustworthy like Zhao Siyao, he would make the trip.


    In the end, Lan Chang''an wrote a letter saying he would consider the third-rank spirit bamboo issue.


    As for the second-rank superior-grade spirit bamboo, if Chen Fuhai came to Huanglong Immortal City or within the Jin Yun Valley territory, he hoped for him to bring two pieces of them along. Lan Chang''an was willing to buy them at auction prices, higher than market rates.


    Lan Chang''an wrote the letter and asked Guan Qiaozhi to pass it on to Lan Lin.


    ...


    Guan Qiaozhi held the letter and was just about to fly off the Little Turtle Peak when she spotted Lan Lin flying toward her, leading an old man in ck robes.


    "Mister Mu, this is Little Turtle Peak, Senior Lan''s cultivation field."


    Lan Lin smiled sweetly at her guest.


    Guan Qiaozhi examined the neer: The ck-robed old man was broad-shouldered with piercing eyes, exuding the air of someone ustomed to power and authority.


    "Little Sister Qiaozhi, this is Senior Mu from Feiyue Lake, said to be an acquaintance of Senior Lan."


    "Mm-hmm, my master happens to be in; please follow me inside."


    Guan Qiaozhi''s gaze flickered slightly as she guessed the visitor''s identity. Though they had never met, she knew well Lan Chang''an''s social connections after spending so many years by his side.


    Lan Chang''an was somewhat surprised to see Mu Renlong visiting him. In the past decade or so, the environment around Feiyue Lake had stabilized. The Maple Leaf Huang Family had lost their drive for advancement and focused on maintaining their market and other businesses instead.


    "Still, Fellow Daoist Lan enjoys such ease, sitting atop arge mountain peak with spit veins, raising turtles, and cultivating nts," Mu Renlong sighed as he took his seat.


    After some small talk, Mu Renlong exined his purpose foring. He hade to Wuqi Mountain seeking pills to help him reach mid Foundation Establishment.


    However, this Alchemist Lin Ye was a superior-grade second-rank cultivator, of considerable renown and status, whose cultivation surpassed that of Mu Renlong''s own. Without a rmendation, Mu Renlong would not receive special attention or consideration.


    "This matter is not difficult." Lan Chang''an did not decline the request.


    As one of the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain, though his seniority was youngest among them, he still counted as a neighbor. He''d known Lin Ye for ten years, and their rtionship was respectable enough. They sharedmon enemies; Lan Chang''an didn''t need to make any effort to cultivate a friendship with Lin Ye, and they naturally became allies.


    That day, Lan Chang''an introduced Mu Renlong to Lin Ye, who discussed some pill-concocting ns with him. The entire process went smoothly. This superior-grade second-rank alchemist wasn''t as entrically irritable as rumored.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, thanks to your rmendation, this humble one owes you another favor."


    Mu Renlong expressed his gratitude and left satisfied, returning home to gather ingredients.


    In truth, Lan Chang''an hadn''t done much, but he had still helped Mu Renlong greatly.


    "If Mu Renlong can sessfully reach mid Foundation Establishment, Feiyue Lake''s strength will rise significantly."


    Lan Chang''an was eager for this oue.


    A cultivator at mid Foundation Establishment could easily defeat two early Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    At over a hundred years old, Mu Renlong was still considered rtively young among Foundation Establishment cultivators; Huang Tankong of the Huang Family, on the other hand, had reached the end of his longevity.


    With the decline of one and the rise of the other, the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake would wee a period of good fortune.


    However...


    Lan Chang''an didn''t expect that this would be thest time he saw Mu Renlong.


    T/L: Basically my country''s been thrown into chaos and inte was cut off for a few days. Things have settled down a bit now so updates will continue as usual, assuming my inte doesn''t die again... T_T

 Chapter 109: Killing Two Birds with One Stone

    A few monthster.


    An old man with a severed arm, at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, hurriedly flew into Wuqi Mountain on a flying boat.


    The old man appeared weak and his flying boat wobbled, almost crashing into Little Turtle Peak.


    "Brother Yunfei?"


    Lan Chang''an was drinking tea in a pavilion when he saw the disheveled old man.


    Guan Qiaozi went over to support Mu Yunfei.


    "Brother Yunfei, what happened?"


    Lan Chang''an nced at Mu Yunfei and saw that he was not injured but due to the long rushed journey, he had exhausted his mana and was suffering from both qi and blood deficiencies.


    "Brother Chang''an, Uncle Renlong is gravely injured and on the brink of death!" Mu Yunfei said bitterly with a dark expression.


    Mu Renlong was critically injured?


    Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised, having interacted with Mu Renlong just a few months ago.


    Mu Renlong was in good condition then, plotting to advance to the middle stage of the Foundation Establishment.


    "Who did it?"


    "Uncle Renlong was attacked by Huang Tankong, the ancestor of the Huang Family, on his way back from Huanglong Immortal City."


    Mu Yunfei gritted his teeth.


    "Huang Tankong? That old geezer, his lifespan is nearly exhausted, and his body is aging..."


    Back in Huanglong Immortal City, when bidding for the second-rank Life Extension Pill, Lan Chang''an sensed that Huang Tankong had only twenty years left to live.


    Now, more than ten years have passed.


    The old ancestor who was about to step into a coffin had slipped quite a bit in strength. Mu Renlong, an experienced early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, would not be much worse than the aging Huang Tankong.


    "Before Uncle Renlong fell unconscious, he mentioned that Huang Tankong used a secret technique to overdraw his lifespan, paying a great price, and he won''t live for more than a year," Mu Yunfei added.


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an understood the whole story.


    ¡­


    Mu Renlong was seeking a pill to break through to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment and came to Wuqi Mountain to find an alchemist, then went to Huanglong Immortal City to gather materials. During this whole process, it was inevitable that news would leak.


    Ten years ago, a Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Huang Family died at the hands of "Liang Shaotian," and since then, they have been keeping a low profile, consolidating their family''s business.


    The two families have been at peace for many years, and the Mu Family gradually let their guard down. The presence of the aged and weakening Huang Tankong had diminished considerably, yet he suddenly struck.


    The final result, the strongest Foundation Establishment cultivators from both families were nearly taken out. An early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator for a middle-stage one, sounded like a good deal. However, Mu Renlong was in his prime and had the opportunity to advance to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment. Huang Tankong, on the other hand, was already nearing the end of his lifespan.


    In this scenario, it was the Mu Family who stood to lose more. If that was all there was to it, it wouldn''t be too significant. But the key pointy in the fact that the only remaining Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Mu Family... wasn''t surnamed Mu!


    "Huang Tankong¡¯s intentions are cruel and sinister, killing two birds with one stone!"


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes sparkled, seeing through the sinister plot.


    With Mu Renlong''s death, no members of the Mu Family remained as Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Would Li Ergou, the outsider Foundation Establishment cultivator, swallow the Mu Family, or establish his own faction?


    This is a huge test of human nature.


    Li Erqing had numerous children, whose bloodlines spread throughout the Mu Family, making them a formidable branch unto themselves.


    Even if Li Erqing possessed a sense of morality and refused to usurp his host, his many descendants, benefiting from their familial connections, would gain ess to greater resources and opportunities, unintentionally or otherwise bullying the native cultivators of the Mu Family. It would be difficult to maintain bnce.


    If left unchecked, this disparity would inevitably breed conflict and lead to division.


    Huang Tankong¡¯s dying gambit had nted a massivendmine beneath the Mu Family.


    ¡­


    "Brother Chang''an, this is a letter from the eldestdy for you."


    Mu Yunfei took out a letter and looked deeply at Lan Chang''an.


    This was the first time Lan Chang''an received a letter from Mu Xiuyun since he left the Mu Family.


    Decades ago, when he first arrived at Huanglong Immortal City, he heard the news of Mu Xiuyun''s failure to establish her foundation and sent a letter to Bamboo Leaf Mountain, with the intention offorting her. At that time, Mu Xiuyun did not reply.


    Lan Chang''an read the letter for a while. It mainly mentioned four points.


    First, decades ago, Mu Xiuyun received Lan Chang''an''s letter.


    At that time, she had failed to establish her foundation and was in no mood to respond, hoping Lan Chang''an would not me her.


    Second, she regretted failing to make use of the Foundation Establishment Pill that Lan Chang''an brought to the Mu Family for her.


    Third, various expressions of gratitude, such as the insights of talisman arts brought back by Mu Maode, which greatly benefited her.


    Including Lan Chang''an¡¯s guidance to Mu Bingyun and helping the Mu Family purchase the second-rank spirit beast.


    Mu Xiuyun clearly stated that Lan Chang''an had done his utmost for Feiyue Lake, and it was the Mu Family that owed him.


    Fourth, she hoped Lan Chang''an could visit Feiyue Lake to see Mu Renlong for thest time.


    Lan Chang''an understood her intentions.


    The final fourth point was the true purpose behind this letter, something outsiders wouldn''t understand upon reading it.


    What use would returning to look at Mu Renlong serve if Lan Chang''an did so now?


    In the entire Mu Family, only Mu Xiuyun knew that the technique Lan Chang''an practiced was extraordinary, possessing a healing secret spell art that set him apart from other cultivators.


    Mu Xiuyun once swore on her heart demon to keep this a secret, and she had kept her word for so many years. If not for the major trouble the Mu Family was facing, she never would have broken her silence to write to Lan Chang''an.


    Her statement about not being in the mood to reply back then was not a lie either. Since she already knew Lan Chang''an was an unordinary cultivator, seeking opportunities for Foundation Establishment by himself, yet she herself failed to reach it, she could hardly avoid feeling disheartened.


    ¡­


    Lan Chang''an put away the letter and looked at the one-armed old man in front of him, asking about Mu Renlong''s specific injuries.


    In the letter, Mu Xiuyun only mentioned it briefly.


    Mu Yunfei described it in more detail.


    Based on his experience from several lifetimes, Lan Chang''an concluded that he was likely toote to intervene.


    Mu Yunfei had already spent a lot of timeing here. Li Erqing, the Foundation Establishment cultivator, had to stay with the Mu Family and couldn''te in person.


    Lan Chang''an would most likely see a corpse if he went back. Could it be that they expected him to perform a true resurrection technique?


    Lan Chang''an instructed Guan Qiaozi to prepare a good meal, letting Mu Yunfei eat more spirit rice to regain his strength and mana.


    "Brother Chang''an, aren''t youing back with me?"


    Mu Yunfei hurriedly finished his meal, looking anxious.


    "Brother Yunfei, distant water cannot quench immediate thirst. There''s no point in rushing." Lan Chang''an''s tone was calm.


    Mu Yunfei''s cloudy old eyes showed slight disappointment but noints.


    He had recovered enough mana, bade farewell, and stepped onto the flying boat.


    "Brother Yunfei, be careful on the road."


    Lan Chang''an reminded.


    ¡­


    "Brother Lan, this time you don''t n to help the Mu Family?"


    Guan Qiaozi asked casually while cleaning up the dishes.


    "How can I help?" Lan Chang''an asked in return.


    Guan Qiaozi shook her head, unable to exin herself.


    Surely she couldn''t ask Lan Chang''an to return to the Mu Family or storm to the Huang Family for revenge. Those were scenarios she did not wish to see.


    "I''m going to be in seclusion for a while, don''t disturb me in the near future."


    Lan Chang''an left a word and went to the secret room of his cave mansion. He had no intention of going to Feiyue Lake to save Mu Renlong.


    Besides being toote.


    Not only was it too far away, but he also felt that revealing the secret of the Evergreen Technique by expending his own lifespan to save a mere acquaintance would be a waste. Instead, he preferred to assist the Mu Family in cultivating a new Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    ¡­


    Mu Yunfei, with a face full of wrinkles and worry, sighed and left Wuqi Mountain on his flying boat.


    After flying hundreds of li through dense forest, Mu Yunfei felt an inexplicable chill along his spine. He cautiously scanned his surroundings, then suddenly recalled Lan Chang''an''s parting words to him: Be careful on the road.


    Mu Yunfei vaguely realized why Lan Chang''an was unwilling to return to the Mu Family with him. The man known as Turtle Talisman Master was renowned for his caution, having never shown any willingness to take risks¡ªeven back at the Mu Family. Fortunately, that chill seemed to have been nothing more than a fleeting illusion, and Mu Yunfei safely emerged from the area.


    Within the depths of the forest, an old man dressed in in clothes withered like a corpse, his eyes sunken and gaze dark, stared after Mu Yunfei''s retreating figure. It was difficult to reconcile this withered old man with Huang Tankong, the leading Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Huang Family.


    "Lan Chang''an..."


    Huang Tankong coughed lightly, blood seeping from the corner of his mouth, and turned toward Wuqi Mountain, his expression unyielding.


    "Uncle Tan, this Lan Chang''an knows when it''s time to quit. He seems to have no ns to return to Feiyue Lake."


    A frail old man with protruding cheekbones emerged from behind arge tree.


    This ancient ancestor was the second most senior Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Huang Family, Huang Changling.


    "Perhaps not. Lan Chang''an is prudent and careful; he likely won''t directly assist Feiyue Lake. That Foundation Establishment Pill back then was most likely brought to the Mu Family by him."


    Huang Tankong coughed, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth, and expressed his concerns: "I cannot be certain that this person will not help the Mu Family openly or secretly after my death."


    He had exhausted himself earlier by bringing Mu Renlong''s life to its final moments, ensuring he would surely die.


    With this step, the future of the Mu Family in Feiyue Lake had been sown with seeds of disaster, and it was likely to splinter apart.


    The only thing Huang Tankong couldn''t shake was his worry over Lan Chang''an. This child cultivated good karma and had many connections; if he were to extend a helping hand in the future, he could very well lead the Mu Family out of their crisis and restore their strength.


    Other than that, the Mu Family''s remaining Foundation Establishment ancestor Li Erqing is Lan Chang''an''s little brother.


    Huang Tankong nned to exhaust hisst breath here, ready to drag Lan Chang''an down with him. Unfortunately, Lan Chang''an hadn''t returned to the Mu Family with Mu Yunfei.


    ...


    "You need not waste your time here; Lan Chang''an will not pass this way," Huang Tankong instructed. "The Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town must have its own Foundation Establishment cultivator on standby."


    Huang Changling was stationed as such.


    Although they had hired another Foundation Establishment cultivator to help manage the market, he wasn''t one of their own and thus couldn''t be left alone for too long.


    In the attack against Mu Renlong, Huang Tankong had been the main force while Huang Changling only assisted.


    "Then what next, Uncle Tan?"


    "I''ve only got half a year of longevity left, so I''ll continue hiding near Feiyue Lake. Perhaps that brat will take a roundabout route back to Mu Manor from some other direction," Huang Tankong coughed.


    "If I can''t catch him within six months, I''ll return home to arrange my funeral."


    "Take care, Uncle Tan." A look of distress crossed Huang Changling''s face as he bowed his head respectfully before leaving.


    On the opposite side of the dense forest, within a valley, stood a pale-faced young man in the shadow of a giant tree, like a decaying log with no presence whatsoever.


    Behind him, the Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from its burrow.


    "Huang Changling?"


    The yellow-eyed youth narrowed his eyes slightly and nced at the middle-aged man flying overhead, d in a straw raincoat. Despite concealing his identity, he couldn''t escape Lan Chang''an''s powerful spiritual sense.


    Under the pretext of seclusion, Lan Chang''an had secretly slipped out to trail Mu Yunfei and observe the situation.


    Underneath the secret room of the Little Turtle Peak''s cave mansion, the Earth Burrowing Rat had excavated a concealed tunnelrge enough for adults to traverse, leading outside the Little Turtle Peak.


    "Huang Tankong, only half a year left of your longevity?"


    Lan Chang''an closed his eyes, his spiritual sense instantly traversing several li across, enveloping the dense forest opposite, revealing every detail clearly.


    With this range, his spiritual sense far exceeded that of Foundation Establishment! Even in thete stage of Foundation Establishment, the range of spiritual sense usually did not exceed a hundred zhang.


    At present, the second seal on the Nine Seal Stele was illuminated by the bright light of a white-bearded old man, emanating the aura of a peak Core Formation Realm.


    As soon as Lan Chang''an mentally fused with the soul, his spiritual senses were immediately amplified by terrifying proportions.


    After more than ten years of nourishment, the second life soul imprint on the Nine Seal Stele had been activated for over a year now. Such a formidable trump card that required a decade of soul nourishment; naturally, Lan Chang''an wouldn''t use a bull''s knife to kill a chicken.

 Chapter 110: Officially Leaving Seclusion

    A little over half a day after Huang Changling left, in the dense forest, Huang Tankong finally stopped crouching and flew towards the southern part of the Liang Kingdom.


    Murderous intent flickered in Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes.


    Huang Tankong not only attacked Mu Renlong but also wanted to stay here and perish together with him?


    However, upon rational consideration, Lan Chang''an decided that killing the elderly Huang Tankong was not worth it.


    This person had only a few months left to live, while Lan Chang''an had more than four hundred years of life expectancy.


    Killing him would be too much effort for too little gain.


    The risk, however, was not insignificant.


    Huang Tankong was eager for him to appear. As a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, burning hisst life force in a desperate fight would be unpredictable and could lead to severe counterattacks.


    Lan Chang''an was determined not to let him have his way. ...


    Compared to Jin Yun Valley and Feiyue Lake.


    Wuqi Mountain was closer to Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town.


    Seven dayster, in the hilly area eight hundred li outside Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    An elderly man with prominent cheekbones, riding a flying boat, appeared despondent and slightly fatigued.


    He was none other than Huang Changling, the Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Huang Family, who was about to return to Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town.


    Huh?


    Huang Changling suddenly sensed something.


    In the mountain ravine below, a ck shadow pounced towards him, seemingly a bird of some kind.


    A sweep with his spiritual sense revealed it was a puppet bird. The tearing wind from its ws brought a chill to Huang Changling.


    It was clearly a superior first-rank puppet.


    ¡°Courting death!¡±


    Huang Changling¡¯s face darkened. With a wave of his sleeve, a dark blue ice pir grew six or seven zhang long in the wind and struck the puppet bird fiercely.


    Boom! Crack!


    The puppet bird was sent flying dozens of zhang far, its wings and ws breaking, withrge patches of frost forming on its surface.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there...?¡±


    Huang Changling was not foolish and remained wary of the puppet¡¯s master.


    In the distant mountain ravine, a shadow suddenly appeared.


    In the next moment, a roaring sound filled his mind, and his body swayed, nearly falling.


    An invisible de of spiritual sense, carrying eerie shockwaves, caused his soul to tremble with intense pain.


    ¡°Not good!¡±


    Huang Changling¡¯s face turned pale. Just as he struggled to recover, he instinctively activated a protective barrier of magical power.


    Boom!


    A blue lightning bolt as thick as an arm descended from the sky, apanied by branching arcs of electricity, enveloping an area of several zhang.


    Huang Changling¡¯s protective shield shattered like paper.


    The power of this spell was at the level of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    ¡°Late-stage Foundation Establishment? No¡ª¡±


    Huang Changling¡¯s scalp tingled with fear. He screamed internally:


    A dignifiedte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator actually ambushed and plotted against a mere early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator like himself.


    A shrill scream echoed.


    Huang Changling¡¯s entire body was charred ck like coal, surrounded by mes, and with the flying boat, he fell towards the hills below with great force.


    ¡°Up!¡±


    The damaged and smoking flying boat was caught steadily by a fair hand before it hit the ground.


    ¡°Hmm,pletely dead.¡±


    A sweep of Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense confirmed that the charred corpse of Huang Changling was unrecognizable, showing no signs of life.


    Earlier, he had used a superior second-rank lightning talisman.


    The power of this talisman, equivalent to ate-stage Foundation Establishment lightning attack, instantly killed the early-stage Foundation Establishment Huang Changling.


    Due to the open terrain and the opponent flying at a high altitude, he couldn¡¯t use closebat likest time.


    Thebination of the puppet and spiritual sense attack ensured absolute certainty.


    It was impossible to determine if the opponent had any life-saving or escape methods.


    If there was an excellent defensive magical weapon, it might at least struggle and resist; if there was a high-quality escape talisman, there was a slight chance of escape.


    Crack!


    Huang Changling¡¯s storage pouch burst open, scattering a pile of loot.


    Fortunately, most of the lightning¡¯s power was absorbed by Huang Changling, and the storage pouch¡¯s sturdy material and protective enchantment left only a few items damaged.


    Lan Chang''an used his magical power to gather the loot.


    He also collected Huang Changling¡¯s corpse, the damaged flying boat, and the puppet into an empty storage pouch.


    Taking away the corpse and stolen goods left no traces.


    Earlier, Lan Chang''an had caught the flying boat with his hand to prevent it from crashing to the ground, mainly for this reason.


    ...


    After finishing the cleanup, the entire process took less than ten breaths.


    Lan Chang''an retracted all his magical power and, relying solely on his physical strength, moved at a speedparable to a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    In a moment, his figure merged into the depths of the mountains and disappeared without a trace.


    Even if a passing cultivator happened to notice, it wouldn¡¯t be a big problem.


    Through body refinement techniques and disguises, Lan Chang''an now appeared as a burly man.


    Ten li away, a small iron boat carried an old man and a child towards Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    ¡°Grandpa! That lightning seemed like a lightning spell?¡±


    The boy in the Qi-Refining stage squinted, staring at the distant sky where the lightning had just passed.


    ¡°Run! That magical fluctuation is likely from a mid tote-stage Foundation Establishment battle!¡±


    The hunchbacked old man in thete stage of Qi-Refining showed a look of fear.


    He had once witnessed an early Foundation Establishment spell, but the evidence of the lightning spell just now far surpassed any he''d seen before.


    Without thinking, he turned the iron boat around and fled.


    ¡°This Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market, I''ve heard it was chaotic with evil cultivators rampant in the past. Indeed, it¡¯s not a ce to stay.¡±


    The old man¡¯s heart was still pounding with fear.


    The grandfather and grandson fled in panic, vowing never to visit such awless market again.


    ...


    An hourter.


    In the deep mountains a thousand li from Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an quickly counted the spoils, his powerful spiritual sense scanning for suspicious items.


    Among the loot were more than three thousand spirit stones, a supreme-grade defensive magical weapon, and three superior-grade magical weapons.


    There were over a dozen second-rank talismans and more than a dozen bottles of second-rank pills. Other items included various magic weapons, spirit wine, tea, spirit fruits, and a heap of material resources.


    Among them were two types of breakthrough pills for the mid tote stages of Qi-Refining.


    ¡°Huang Changling, as an old Foundation Establishment cultivator long stationed at the market, is indeed wealthier than Young Master Huang.¡±


    This harvest exceeded Lan Chang''an¡¯s expectations.


    ¡°Huh! These materials¡­¡±


    While sorting through a pile of herbs, Lan Chang''an found them familiar.


    Aren¡¯t these materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill?


    Except for the Xuanling Fruit, the main ingredients were gathered, and most of the auxiliary ingredients were present. Thepletion rate of the materials was over seventy percent.


    ¡°The Huang Family, with the convenience of the market and abundant resources, was also nning for Foundation Establishment Pills.¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled knowingly.


    Sixty years ago, there was talk of three Foundation Establishment cultivators in the Maple Leaf Huang Family.


    In recent decades, the Huang Family didn¡¯t just produce Young Master Huang as a Foundation Establishment cultivator but two others.


    Among the original three Foundation Establishment cultivators, one had already died of old age.


    This was the advantage of the Huang Family¡¯s market, with ample financial resources, even pulling in some branches of the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    ...


    After killing Huang Changling, Lan Chang''an quickly returned to Wuqi Mountain, as it was rtively close.


    Seven dayster, at nightfall...


    Lan Chang''an sneaked back to Wuqi Mountain.


    With his ability to conceal his aura, the other two peak masters couldn¡¯t detect him.


    He found the tunnel entrance in the hidden area of the vine-covered hillside of Little Turtle Peak and returned to the secret room in the mountaintop cave.


    Even if someone found this hidden tunnel, they couldn¡¯t reach the mountaintop.


    Because there was also Lan Chang''an¡¯s protective mountain formation on the mountaintop, with the formation token in hand, he could freely enter and exit. In the cultivation world, any normal formations had istion effects underground as well.


    In his previous life, he had read about such a case in a misceneous collection of cultivation stories: how someone managed to burrow through the earth and enter the grounds of a massive sect using the earth burrowing spell.


    In the secret room.


    Lan Chang''an recalled the operation, checking for any oversights.


    This time, he didn¡¯t impersonate Liang Shaotian. If Liang Shaotian was med twice in a row for killing the Huang Family¡¯s Foundation Establishment cultivators, it would be too coincidental.


    It would attract a thorough investigation by the sect.


    The desired oue was:


    Huang Changling mysteriously disappeared, with the Family only confirming his death through the soul token but unable to find any clues or traces.


    Lan Chang''an had again instantly killed and collected all the corpse items.


    He had scanned with his spiritual sense during the attack, and there were no nearby cultivators.


    ¡°This operation wasn¡¯t as perfect asst time. Sigh, mainly because no one took the me.¡±


    ¡°Killing Huang Changling, the Maple Leaf Huang Family might suspect me but it''s impossible for them to be certain.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was clear on this point.


    Huang Tankong and Huang Changling had been watching over him from afar. Huang Yingchun, another Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Huang Family, should have known; perhaps a few key figures within the family may have had some inkling.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t think there would be any problems.


    Firstly, the Huang Familycked evidence and proof, having only baseless suspicions at most. Over the course of several decades, they had expanded their influence, including opening markets, so naturally they had made many enemies along the way.


    Secondly, with the loss of Huang Changling, and Huang Takong nearing the end of his life, the remaining members of the Huang Family were left with only one Foundation Establishment cultivator: a female cultivator.


    It would inevitably attract attention when a lone cultivator attempted to control both the spiritual vein of the Huang Family and the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town simultaneously. The Huang Family would face a crisis, leaving them unable to focus on themselves.


    Lastly, as a second-rank talisman master, Lan Chang''an''s connections were extraordinary, and killing an early Foundation Establishment cultivator who sought his demise did not exceed the bounds of propriety¡ªindeed, it was righteous.


    The weak Huang Family could at most harbor suspicions,cking moral high ground, powerless against him.


    "Hehe, even the Huang Family''s ns for their Foundation Establishment Pill have be my spoils of war. Not only is the family facing crisis, but it will be difficult for them to produce a new Foundation Establishment cultivator anytime soon," Lan Chang''an chuckled lightly.


    That old miscreant Huang Tankong, if he didn''t provoke him before the end of his lifespan, Lan Chang''an wouldn''t have moved against him. In the past, the Huang Family''s enmity toward him stemmed solely from Young Master Huang''s personal grudge, with no other conflicts or grievances between them.


    The next day, Lan Chang''an formally emerged from seclusion and soaked in a rxing bath under Guan Qiaozhi''s care.


    Two dayster, he set off for Feiyue Lake.


    As for Huang Changling''s corpse, it was disposed of outside the mountain as waste material from medicine concocting.


    Ten dayster.


    Approaching Feiyue Lake several hundred li away, Lan Chang''an restrained his presence and descended to the ground, resuming travel on foot.


    His spiritual sense surpassed Huang Tankong''s, so with proper precautions, he had no need to worry about ambushes.


    Passing through a canyon, Lan Chang''an slowed down, because this cey along the path between Wuqi Mountain and Feiyue Lake, and many cultivators frequented it.


    He disguised himself as an ordinary secr martial artist. The aura of the Evergreen Technique concealed his identity well enough that even Fake-Dan Immortals couldn''t see through him.


    "Eh? Huang Tankong isn''t here?"


    Lan Chang''an fused his consciousness with the second life soul imprint from the Nine Seal Stele, greatly enhancing his spiritual senses, which were nowparable to that of a cultivator in the early Core Formation Realm at the least.


    Because his consciousness needed to merge with the Nine Seal Stele, this enhancement ability could only be used in a nonbat state.


    Half a dayter, Feiyue Lake came into view.


    Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised¡ªHuang Tankong hadn''t been lurking near Feiyue Lake to ambush him? On his way here, he''d slowed down when nearing Feiyue Lake, hoping to pinpoint Huang Tankong''s hiding spot.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t necessarily n on causing trouble for the man; if he could determine where Huang Tankong was holed up, it would give him some peace of mind.


    "Perhaps..." Lan Chang''an considered a possibility: Perhaps Huang Tankong had guessed that Lan Chang''an would be cautious and not take the normal route, so he''d chosen to lurk somewhere along an unconventional detour?


    Lan Chang''an shook his head internally, unwilling to dwell further on it.


    As he neared Feiyue Lake, he transformed back into his original appearance and flew toward the Mu Family''s residence.


    He sensed the aura of someone at Foundation Establishment.


    A middle-aged man with puffy eyes and a slight paunch emerged from Moonheart Ind. "Big Brother, you''ve finally returned."


    Li Erqing''s eyes were bloodshot, face exhausted. The moment he saw Lan Chang''an, all his fatigue seemed to melt away.

 Chapter 111: Different Choices

    "How is the situation?"


    Lan Chang''an didn''t bother with pleasantries and went straight to the point.


    "Uncle Renlong, it''s been a month since he was buried." Li Erqing replied with a downcast tone.


    Lan Chang''an roughly estimated that Mu Renlong''s death urred around the time Mu Yunfei arrived at Wuqi Mountain. This aligned with his judgment that Mu Renlong''s injuries were too severe to be saved.


    If Lan Chang''an had been impulsive and rushed back with Mu Yunfei, it would have been useless and they would have been ambushed.


    Upon entering Feiyue Lake, Lan Chang''an felt the unrest within the Mu Family. The nsmen appeared lifeless and expressionless, some looking helpless and bewildered as if they had lost their spirit.


    Indeed, Feiyue Lake still had a Foundation Establishment cultivator, but he was not from the Mu Family, which made the n members uneasy.


    Lan Chang''an first went to Moonheart Ind to pay his respects to thete Mu Renlong, silently offering an apology. Objectively speaking, although he couldn''t save Mu Renlong in time, he hadn''t put in his best effort.


    Years ago, saving Mu Xiuyun was an ident, which led to the discovery of the Evergreen Technique''s secret, that it could consume longevity to heal people.Leaving the burial grounds, Lan Chang''an saw two young men and women, both at the mid-stage of Qi-Refining, looking rxed, one of them had a smile on the corner of his mouth.


    "Who are those two young people?" Lan Chang''an asked casually.


    "They are my grandson and granddaughter," Li Erqing''s old face turned red as he red at them, his Foundation Establishment pressure forcing the two young people to kneel.


    In the current Mu Family, only Li Erqing''s descendants seemed to be in good spirits.


    "Isn''t Moonheart Ind only essible to those at thete stage of Qi-Refining?" Lan Chang''an asked again.


    Li Erqing''s expression turned awkward as he exined, "ording to the family''s rules, a Foundation Establishment cultivator is allowed ten family members to apany them on Moonheart Ind for cultivation. Additionally, temporary family visits are permitted as long as they don''t cultivate on the ind."


    Lan Chang''an hadn''t frequented Moonheart Ind much during his time cultivating in the Mu Family and was not familiar with the specific rules. Now, he sensed the potential for power imbnce. This was not solely due to Li Erqing''s will; the numerous wives and children behind him, driven by interest, would push Li Erqing to act involuntarily.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an arrived at Li Erqing''s abode, where the two discussed the Mu Family''s future strategies. Specifically, Li Erqing, now the highest-ranking cultivator in the Mu Family, was seeking Lan Chang''an''s advice.


    "Big brother, the elders in the family have also considered Huang Tankong''s malicious intent," Li Erqing said solemnly. "The Mu Family''s kindness is deeply ingrained in me. I will never harbor ill intentions, betray, or usurp the Mu Family."


    Lan Chang''an believed Li Erqing''s words were sincere at that moment. But Huang Tankong''s schemes were an open plot, involving the distribution of benefits between the Mu Family and Li Erqing''s lineage. As long as people are driven by interests, conflicts, and disagreements will inevitably arise.


    "Erqing, if you truly wish for the Mu Family''s stability, I have three suggestions," Lan Chang''an said after some thought.


    "Please, go ahead, big brother," Li Erqing listened intently.


    "First, as the only remaining Foundation Establishment cultivator in the Mu Family, do not involve yourself in family management. Leave it entirely to the elders such as Mu Chengji and Mu Xiuyun.


    Second, quickly cultivate a new Foundation Establishment cultivator from within the Mu Family''s lineage to stabilize morale."


    Li Erqing nodded in agreement with the first two suggestions.


    "Third, if one day the situation at Feiyue Lake stabilizes but no longer meets the cultivation needs of your lineage, you can take your immediate family and establish a new n elsewhere."


    Hearing this, Li Erqing''s expression changed, and he shook his head firmly, "Big brother, I have been part of the Mu Family since my teens. My wives and children are all of Mu blood. I would never make such a choice."


    Among the three suggestions, the second one was the most crucial. As long as a Foundation Establishment cultivator emerged from the Mu Family, the situation at Feiyue Lake would naturally stabilize.


    ...


    "Which ones of the Mu Family seedlings do you n to cultivate?" Lan Chang''an and Li Erqing discussed the potential young cultivators. Currently, there were three members under forty with mid-grade spiritual roots: Mu Congren, Mu Bingyun, and Mu Juncai.


    All three had genuine mid-grade spiritual roots, not just close to the threshold. Mu Congren, Li Erqing''s grandson, was the youngest, not yet twenty. Mu Bingyun had not only good aptitude but was also a talisman master.


    "Mu Bingyun is worth cultivating. We can support her a bit," Lan Chang''an said straightforwardly, considering his past rtionship with her.


    Years ago, when Mu Xiuyun was at the right age for Foundation Establishment, he was only at the seventh or eighthyer of Qi-Refining and could offer limited help. By the time he returned after reaching Foundation Establishment, Mu Xiuyun was already too old, leaving some regrets.


    "Mu Bingyun has both the roots and skills, which indeed makes her a good candidate. However, currently..." Li Erqing hesitated.


    "What about Mu Bingyun?" Lan Chang''an frowned, realizing he had missed some information.


    "Two months ago, Mu Bingyun was attacked near Feiyue Lake by two unidentified ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivators. If not for her high-quality talismans, she might have perished. She escaped back to the family, but her dantian was damaged. Even with top-tier healing medicines, some damage is irreversible, affecting her foundation. Her future Foundation Establishment prospects are dim," Li Erqing exined, smiling bitterly.


    This incident had been overshadowed by Mu Renlong''s critical injury and near-death experience. Naturally, a wounded Qi-Refining cultivator didn''t garner much attention when the patriarch himself was on the brink of death.


    "Mu Xiuyun didn''t mention this in her letter," Lan Chang''an said, deep in thought. It seemed Mu Xiuyun had taken the unprecedented step of writing a letter because she wanted Lan Chang''an toe to Feiyue Lake to take a look at her disciple Mu Bing Yun''s injuries "incidentally".


    If she had mentioned this...


    On the basis of past love, he might have prioritized going to Feiyue Lake over killing Huang Changling.


    Perhaps Mu Xiuyun didn''t want personal feelings to sway Lan Chang''an''s decision.


    "Did Huang Tankong use this trick to lure me to Feiyue Lake?" Lan Chang''an''s first suspect was the Huang Family. Among the Mu Family members he had ties with, there were only a handful with whom Lan Chang''an shared any bonds. But it wasn''t certain whether the surrounding cultivation families were eagerly waiting for both the Mu and Huang families to suffer irreparable losses.


    ...


    Momentster, apanied by Li Erqing, Lan Chang''an arrived at a quaint cave dwelling on Moonheart Ind.


    "Uncle Lan," a pale-faced girl in a green dress greeted him, Mu Bingyun''s clear eyes shone with a hint of surprise as she gazed upon the white-robed man whose appearance remained unchanged after over a decade of separation.


    Mu Bingyun hadn''t changed much, likely due to beauty-preserving pills, and reaching the seventhyer of Qi-Refining. Yet herplexion was almost wholly devoid of color, adding a sickly pallor to her delicate features.


    "Let me examine your injuries," Lan Chang''an said.


    Mentioning her injuries brought a shadow of sadness over Mu Bingyun''s brows, like clouds obscuring the moon. She extended her pale wrist for Lan Chang''an to take her pulse.


    "Uncle Lan, do you know medicine?" Mu Bingyun asked, a hint of hope in her eyes.


    Her injuries had been confirmed to have damaged her foundation. Her master had once said that when the situation stabilized, she should visit Uncle Lan at Wuqi Mountain, as he had many connections and might find a way.


    "I have dabbled a bit, but I''m not an expert," Lan Chang''an replied, releasing her wrist. He had understood her condition¡ªsome of the damage to her dantian was irreversible.


    Comparing this to the difficulty of saving Mu Xiuyun years ago, Lan Chang''an was confident he could heal her hidden injuries and restore her foundation, but it would require consuming his lifespan through the secret healing spell. With over four hundred years of lifespan, he could easily afford this, but he didn''t want to reveal this ability.


    He couldn''t possibly ask her to swear a heart demon oath, as such oaths weren''t foolproof if the oath-taker didn''t value the Dao.


    "If I heal her injuries too easily, it would be suspicious unless a third-rank physician and rare spiritual medicines are involved. What if I treated her over dozens of sessions spanning several years, and slowly ''cultivated'' her back to health?" Lan Chang''an thought.


    By taking a longer period to slowly heal her, it wouldn''t appear extraordinary. Just like how earning ten thousand spirit stones in a year would be surprising, but earning it over decades wouldn''t be. Moreover, the damage to her foundation wasn''t considered terminal in the cultivation world, as third-rank healing medicines and certain rare treasures could potentially repair it.


    ...


    "Bingyun, I have a nurturing technique that,bined with some medicines, might slowly restore your foundation," Lan Chang''an said.


    "Nurturing?" Mu Bingyun''s eyes brightened.


    Li Erqing also perked up. Lan Chang''an''s life-nurturing and youth maintaining techniques were admired by those familiar with him. Using nurturing methods for healing wasmon in the cultivation world and could sometimes work miracles.


    "However, I only have a twenty percent chance of sess, and it requires you to leave the Mu Family and cultivate with me for some years," Lan Chang''an added.


    "Twenty percent?" Mu Bingyun hesitated.


    "How many years will it take, Uncle Lan?" Mu Bingyun asked, her lips slightly trembling.


    "As little as seven or eight years to as long as twenty," Lan Chang''an replied, giving a conservative estimate.


    Mu Bingyun pursed her red lips, hesitating as she fell deep into contemtion.


    A girl who had grown up within the confines of her family suddenly needed to bet over ten years of her life on a twenty percent chance; it required courage and determination.


    "I''ll give you some time to consider," Lan Chang''an said, turning to leave with Li Erqing.


    Just as they reached the entrance of the cave-dwelling, a voice called out, "Uncle Lan."


    The youthful voice was filled with resolve. "I''ve decided! I will leave the family and follow uncle to cultivate and receive treatment."


    Her eyes shone with determination, her pale face set in a firm expression.


    "Hmm."


    Lan Chang''an paused, slightly surprised by her decisiveness. Li Erqing gave her an approving nod. Lan Chang''an''s willingness to take her along might also hint at an intention to cultivate her further.


    Li Erqing, despite not knowing the full extent of Lan Chang''an''s abilities, had a gut feeling, formed over sixty years of acquaintance, that his big brother was no ordinary individual. He couldn''t tell why but sensed that Lan Chang''an had hidden depths.


    Never mind anything else, who could have believed that when his big brother resolutely left the family all those years ago, seeking to attain Foundation Establishment, that he would seed?


    In the cave-dwelling, Mu Bingyun''s lone figure stood like a snowflower, whispering, "Master, today I made a different choice from you. Will the future end differently?"


    ...


    Lan Chang''an didn''t stay on Moonheart Ind but returned to his oldkeside courtyard, a ce the Mu Family had deliberately preserved like a historic relic, maintaining it regrly. As the Foundation Establishment cultivator who had helped the Mu Family rise, Lan Chang''an''s achievement of Foundation Establishment at an ancient age was notable enough to be recorded in the annals of the Liang Kingdom, justifying this treatment.


    "Huang Tankong..." Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged in his room, his eyes flickering.


    When he hade to Feiyue Lake, he hadn''t found Huang Tankong''s whereabouts. Considering the old man''s dwindling lifespan, Lan Chang''an hadn''t pursued him. But Mu Bingyun''s plight made him realize that Huang Tankong was still a lurking threat, like a venomous snake capable of striking at any moment.


    Mu Bingyun''s attack might have been orchestrated by Huang Tankong to lure him to Feiyue Lake. However, it was also possible that surrounding cultivation families, eager to see the Mu and Huang families sh, were behind it.


    Regardless, Lan Chang''an now knew he had to find Huang Tankong and neutralize the threat he posed. He couldn''t allow such a dangerous adversary to continue lurking in the shadows.

 Chapter 112: Dragged to Death

    Lan Chang''an wasn''t seeking Huang Tankong for a fight.


    He only wanted to ensure that this hidden threat was brought under his control, allowing him to ¡°peacefully¡± pass away.


    The following night.


    No one noticed that the figure in Lan Chang''an¡¯s courtyard was merely an illusion created by an Illusory Truth Talisman.


    Lan Chang''an had informed Li Erqing in advance, so no one would disturb his ¡°meditation.¡±


    There was a simple and straightforward method to find Huang Tankong.


    Starting from the major checkpoints surrounding the Mu Family, ces suitable for ambushes, search them one by one.


    Out of cautious instinct, Lan Chang''an did not immediately search outside but began his investigation from inside, starting around Feiyue Lake, to avoid overlooking anything right under his nose.


    Upon investigating, he was taken aback.¡°This old coot actually snuck up near Feiyue Lake!¡±


    Two nightster, near a mine a hundred li from Feiyue Vi, Lan Chang''an detected a faint spiritual fluctuation.


    Disguised as a mid-stage Qi-Refining Mu Family cultivator, he only moved at night, activating the Evergreen Technique to minimize his presence.


    As fate would have it, more than a decade ago, Young Master Huang died near this very mine. At that time, the Huang Family cultivators massacred the miners here. The mine, already depleted, was subsequently shut down.


    At the rocky ridge a few li from the mine.


    Lan Chang''an sat in a crevice, closed his eyes, and merged his mind with the soul of the white-bearded old man from the second life of the Nine Seal Stele, greatly enhancing his spiritual perception.


    The soul of the second life''ste-stage Core Formation was overwhelmingly powerful! Lan Chang''an could only merge with a small part of it; any more and his spiritual sea felt like it would burst.


    His spiritual sense easily prated the mine¡¯s rock walls, finding the target in an abandoned woodshed.


    There, a ragged, skeletal old man with all his white hair fallen out, crouched. His sunken eye sockets glowed faintly, like a candle flickering in the wind.


    ¡°Cough, cough...¡±


    Huang Tankong¡¯s violent coughs, with dried blood at the corners of his mouth, echoed within a soundproof barrier he had set up around him.


    ¡°Huang Tankong dares to infiltrate Feiyue Lake alone, so he must have expected Li Erqing to fail in discovering him. Li Erqing¡¯s timid nature wouldn¡¯t dare leave the family.¡±


    Lan Chang''an mused.


    Although Huang Tankong¡¯s body was failing, as a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator, his level still posed a threat. However, in his current state, he posed no threat to the Mu Family protected by a n-protecting formation. He could only resort to stealth tactics.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that his primary target was himself.


    Killing Li Erqing wouldn''t be easy¡ªthis talentless Foundation Establishment cultivator could still divide the Mu Family if left alive.


    ...


    Finding his location made things easier; there was no rush to act.


    The old man grew weaker by the day.


    Lan Chang''an left the Earth Burrowing Rat to keep watch at the rocky ridge.


    At a distance of several li, a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator''s spiritual sense wouldn¡¯t reach here. Huang Tankong¡¯s spiritual sense was too weak and couldn''t be used frequently.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat could even hide underground to avoid detection.


    Before dawn, Lan Chang''an returned to thekeside courtyard of Feiyue Vi.


    ¡°Huang Tankong likely doesn''t know about Huang Changling¡¯s death; otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t wait so patiently.¡±


    Lan Chang''an analyzed.


    Huang Changling¡¯s soul token was in the family ancestral hall. Huang Tankong, deep in enemy territory, had no way of receiving updates.


    After several days of observation, Lan Chang''an discovered that Huang Tankong had a bird spirit beast serving as his eyes and ears.


    This bird, named ¡°Swallow Sentinel,¡± had a peak first-rank cultivation.


    Small in size, and weak in strength, it was easily mistaken for amon bird. In fact, the Swallow Sentinel was fast, had excellent vision, and high intelligence, making it a good scout.


    The Swallow Sentinel monitored the surroundings of Feiyue Lake, returning quietly at night to eat spirit pills fed by Huang Tankong.


    Lan Chang''an realized Huang Tankong must have known he had arrived at the Mu Family.


    If the Evergreen Technique didn¡¯t excel at concealing aura, it was entirely possible that Huang Tankong would intercept him on his way home.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see how long this old geezer can wait.¡±


    Lan Chang''an, with his long lifespan, held the initiative and saw no need to confront his opponent prematurely. When the man was on the brink of death, it wouldn¡¯t be toote to stomp on him.


    ...


    A few dayster, two Foundation Establishment cultivators flew in from the west side of Feiyue Lake.


    One was a middle-aged man with a fair face, the other a graceful woman in a white dress.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, Nephew Lin.¡±


    Li Erqing stepped forward to greet them.


    Lan Chang''an also flew out of Feiyue Manor to meet Zhao Siyao and Lin Lu.


    These two Foundation Establishment cultivators, hearing about the disturbances at Feiyue Lake, hade from Jin Yun Valley to offer their condolences and support.


    In the cultivation world, there was an unspoken rule: sect members should not interfere in the conflicts of cultivation families, at least not openly. Unless they themselves belonged to a family.


    Sect-trained cultivators were not meant to provoke external karma. Otherwise, which family wouldn¡¯t have connections with sect cultivators?


    Typically, sect cultivators would at most mediate disputes between surrounding family forces.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao had not met in many years.


    Zhao Siyao was no longer the young girl she once was, now wearing a phoenix hairpin, her face radiant and serene, her dress immacte.


    The two chatted pleasantlyte into the night.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, are you nning to participate in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm in a few years?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart stirred.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s delicate brows furrowed slightly, ¡°Since reaching mid-stage Foundation Establishment, my progress has slowed, and at times, I feel mentally exhausted. Most Foundation Establishment cultivators in this world never break through to thete stage.¡±


    ¡°But in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, there are many rare treasures, including opportunities for breaking through tote-stage Foundation Establishment. With luck, one might even find Core Formation items.¡± Zhao Siyao¡¯s bright, clear eyes sparkled with a hint of longing for the path to Core Formation.


    ¡°Unfortunately, my abilities are limited, and I cannot apany you into the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.¡± Lan Chang''an sighed, seemingly regretful.


    The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm quotas werergely controlled by the five major sects of the Liang Kingdom. To appease cultivation families and loose cultivators, a few spots were sold each year.


    Zhao Siyao nced at him, her lips curling in a knowing smile.


    Zhao Siyao brought up the topic to see if Lan Chang''an could help her obtain high-quality second-rank talismans ten yearster. If there were second-rank superior talismans, they would be of great help to Zhao Siyao.


    ¡°Currently, I am drawing mid-grade second-rank talismans and the sess rate is not high.¡± Lan Chang''an pondered, ¡°In ten years, who knows? By then, Fellow Daoist Zhao, you may visit Wuqi Mountain.¡±


    His words sounded humble, full of uncertainty. But Zhao Siyao¡¯s eyes shone brightly. Knowing Lan Chang''an, this ¡°who knows¡± probably held significant hope. Moreover, Lan Chang''an explicitly invited her to pay him a visit.


    Lan Chang''an''s willingness to assist Zhao Siyao wasn''t merely out of friendship. He wouldn¡¯t enter the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm himself, but he could support his Foundation Establishment friends who did, and both parties could reap benefits.


    For instance, he could provide protective measures for Zhao Siyao, and ask her to keep an eye out for resources he needed inside the secret realm in exchange. Or perhaps Zhao Siyao could supply intelligence about who obtained certain resources; then Lan Chang''an could wait near the entrance, and contact them outside the secret realm to negotiate a purchase.


    Wasn¡¯t this morefortable than risking his life in the secret realm?


    ...


    A few dayster, Zhao Siyao left.


    Lin Lu decided to stay longer at the Mu Family to repay Li Erqing for helping him during his Foundation Establishment period. After advancing to Foundation Establishment, Lin Lu had secured an outer sect deacon position in Jin Yun Valley.


    ¡°Fairy Jade Moon has many pursuers in the sect, but she never gives them the time of day. Uncle Lan, you¡¯re the only male cultivator of the same rank she converses with so deeply.¡±


    Watching the graceful figure in the floating dress disappear, Lin Lu smiled knowingly, hinting at something.


    Lin Lu knew that his father, Lin Yi, once secretly admired Fairy Zhao. However, he never had the courage to confess.


    Lin Yi¡¯s notes mentioned: after the sect assessment results were announced, he realized that he and Fairy Zhao had different fates as immortals and mortals.


    From his father''s asionalments, Lin Lu learned a detail:


    In their early cultivation days, when Zhao Siyao was fourteen or fifteen, she had some affection for Lan Chang''an, which displeased his father.


    However, due to their differences in cultivation and status, Lan Chang''an ¡°sensibly¡± distanced himself, cutting off that budding affection.


    ¡°Your Uncle Lan and Fairy Zhao are merely old acquaintances who went through life and death experiences in the ck Fog Mountain Range together, sharing decades of friendship.¡±


    Lan Chang''an said calmly.


    ¡°Do not spread such rumors outside.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Uncle Lan.¡± Lin Lu smiled bitterly.


    As an observer, he saw it clearly: Zhao Siyao and Lan Chang''an had known each other for decades and could talk deeply into the night, showing mutual admiration.


    If either took the initiative, breaking the ice, they had a chance of bing daopanions. However, neither was the type to take the initiative; both were wholly devoted to cultivating and held little interest in romantic rtionships between men and women.


    ...


    Half a monthter, Lin Lu returned to the sect.


    Lan Chang''an did not consider asking the two sect Foundation Establishment cultivators to help deal with Huang Tankong.


    Such an action would vite sect principles unless Huang Tankong attacked first or framed them. It wasn¡¯t worth owing a favor for an old man on the brink of death.


    Lan Chang''an remained at Feiyue Lake. As someone who came from the Mu Family and Li Erqing¡¯s big brother, staying for a year or more wasn¡¯t unusual.


    Before he knew it, two months passed since arriving at Feiyue Lake.


    Lan Chang''an''s observations revealed that Huang Tankong''s aura continued to wane, and he disyed signs of impatience¡ªperhaps indicating that he intended to leave soon.


    Seeing this.


    At this time, Lan Chang''an flew above Feiyue Lake during the day and circled briefly, offering Huang Tankong some hope. He positioned himself near the formation surrounding Moonheart Ind, where Li Erqing stood guard, so Huang Tankong dared not act rashly.


    In this manner, they wasted another month.


    When Huang Tankong was showing impatience once more, preparing to find an opportunity to escape.


    Lan Chang''an took another flight.


    Encouraged by the glimmer of hope, Huang Tankong rallied his spirits and waited tormentedly for another month.


    This tug-of-war repeated three times.


    Finally, Huang Tankong sensed something amiss, and moreover, his physical condition was getting worse and worse.


    ...


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, you sly fox!¡±


    Huang Tankong gnashed his teeth, but he was already so old that his teeth had long since fallen out.


    He knew he''d been tricked.


    Being pulled and pushed by Lan Chang''an like this for so long had exhausted too much of his energy and consciousness; his frail body couldn''t take it anymore.


    Late one night...


    Huang Tankong finally gave up on his n and snuck away from Feiyue Lake, intending to return home to arrange his affairs before death.


    What Huang Tankong didn''t know was that every move he made was being watched closely by Lan Chang''an.


    He thought at most Lan Chang''an could guess that he was hiding in wait.


    Normally, a Foundation Establishment early-stage cultivator approaching couldn¡¯t evade both the Swallow Sentinel¡¯s detection and his spiritual sense.


    ...


    The Maple Leaf Huang Familyy south of Feiyue Lake.


    During his flight, Huang Tankong appeared to struggle greatly, clutching at spirit stones to replenish his mana but failing to keep up with his consumption. His body had deteriorated to the point where it could no longer retain mana or qi.


    Two dayster, at nightfall, Huang Tankong was still several hundred li away from the Huang Family''s headquarters.


    Whoosh!


    The Swallow Sentinel flew ahead to notify the Huang Family for assistance.


    It had barely left for a quarter of an hour when...


    Thud!


    Huang Tankong fell helplessly onto a hillside.


    Suddenly, he caught a whiff of medicinal herbs, which intensified his fatigue and emptiness many times over. His eyelids grew heavy, threatening to close of their own ord.


    Huang Tankong strained to stay conscious, resisting the encroaching darkness, bitterly saying:


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan?¡±


    ¡°This old man¡¯s life is nearly over, half buried in the earth already, and you still resort to poisoning?¡±


    In his blurry vision, a burly man wearing a bamboo hat came into view.


    ...


    (End of the chapter)

 Chapter 113: The Method of Nurturing

    "This isn''t poison, but merely a natural mixture of herbs that stimtes vitality consumption while simultaneously inducing sleep." The burly man in a bamboo hat did not admit his identity but spoke slowly.


    After the repeated tug-of-war by Feiyue Lake, Huang Tankong''s energy was greatly depleted. Coupled with the effects of this herbal mixture, Huang Tankong had already lost hisbat power.


    Even if he wanted to use secret techniques, there was nothing left to squeeze out from his body, and his mana had almostpletely drained.


    "Please... spare the Huang Family, everything was my own doing."


    Huang Tankong''s voice was hoarse as he pleaded, his consciousness was nearly slipping into oblivion.


    Lan Chang''an had kept him alive to uncover a certain truth. He transmitted his voice, "Fellow Daoist Huang, your lifespan is near its end. I originally did not want to deal with you."


    "But to force me to show myself, the Huang Family sent people to assassinate Mu Bingyun. Wasn''t that too much?"


    "No... no... My Huang Family didn''t do that!"


    In his dying moments, Huang Tankong uttered his final words and closed his eyes.Under Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense, this emaciated body quickly ceased all signs of life.


    Lan Chang''an, who practiced the Evergreen Technique, was very sensitive to vitality and had a strong spiritual sense. Any means of faking death could not deceive him.


    "Not the Huang Family?"


    Lan Chang''an believed about sixty to seventy percent of what Huang Tankong said before his death.


    When he came to know Mu Bingyun was attacked, Lan Chang''an had thought deeply afterward and felt something was off.


    From Huang Tankong''s perspective, he was secretly lying in wait, and Lan Chang''an was unaware of it, or at least could not be certain.


    Ambush and assassination depend on luck as well. If he didn''t move to catch the target, Lan Chang''an would remain unaware and wouldn''tpletely side with the Mu Family.


    If he targeted Mu Bingyun, Lan Chang''an might not care. However, if he did care about the girl and the ambush failed, the Maple Leaf Huang Family would gain a formidable Foundation Establishment enemy.


    If it wasn''t the Huang Family, then who?


    Lan Chang''an had no leads for the moment. This was because, with the fall of the Huang Family, many surrounding cultivation families would profit from the situation.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an took onest look at Huang Tankong''s corpse but did not feel the urge to kick it. He left the man with an intact body.


    Huang Tankong''s death appeared natural at first nce. There were no signs of struggle or evidence of poison use at the scene.


    The previously used natural herbal mixture would naturally dissipate in the body and night breeze.


    There was one advantage to such an ending: The few core members of the Huang Family who knew the truth would only confirm that Huang Changling had died an unnatural death. They wouldn''t link the deaths of two Foundation Establishment cultivators to a single killer.


    In reality, the Maple Leaf Huang Family was left with only one female Foundation Establishment cultivator, struggling to survive and posing almost no threat.


    Lan Chang''an did this to naturally stabilize the situation.


    The storage pouch on Huang Tankong contained only some pills, an offensive magic weapon, and a few misceneous items, none of much value. The man prepared to die together, so naturally, he wouldn''t carry anything valuable on him.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an decided against touching anything, preserving the perfect appearance of a natural death.


    Soon after, this decision proved to be prudent.


    ...


    After erasing his traces, Lan Chang''an concealed himself into the night.


    The sky began to lighten.


    A few cultivators from the Huang Family arrived, led by a ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator.


    "Uncle Tan!"


    "Great Elder!"


    Several Huang Family cultivators mournfully gathered before Huang Tankong''s corpse.


    After a preliminary examination, they found his clothes intact, with no signs of a struggle, indicating a natural death.


    "Two Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Huang Family have died, and the family''s soul tokens have reacted. The only remaining Foundation Establishment cultivator, ''Huang Yingchun,'' indeed did not dare toe out."


    On a hill a few li away, Lan Chang''an watched for a moment before quietly leaving.


    ...


    Two dayster, Lan Chang''an returned to Feiyue Manor.


    Inside one courtyard, the aura of the illusory figure simted by the Illusory Truth Talisman was still present.


    If the Mu Family had a spy within the Huang Family, they would learn that Lan Chang''an had not left Feiyue Vi in the past few days.


    Ten dayster.


    Lan Chang''an announced his departure.


    Li Erqing, family head Mu Chengji, Mu Yunfei, Mu Ershun, and others all came to see him off.


    This time, however, things were different: beside Lan Chang''an stood a pale-faced maiden dressed in green robes, her appearance gentle as fine jade.


    "Senior Lan is taking Mu Bingyun away?" Among the young cultivators observing from afar, some revealed reluctance or dissatisfaction.


    The Mu Family''s branches were extensive, with many non-close rtives who could marry freely.


    Mu Bingyun was the number one beauty among the young generation of Feiyue Lake, with good talent, and was also a talisman master.


    "No need to see me off any further."


    Lan Chang''an rode a flying boat, breaking into the clouds, leaving a final word.


    "I am now a second-rank talisman master residing in Wuqi Mountain. Fellow Daoists of Feiyue Lake, the green mountains remain unchanged, please take care."


    Upon hearing this, Li Erqing and the high-level members of the Mu Family present had subtle changes in their expressions.


    They realized the implication in Lan Chang''an''s words.


    Farther away by thekeside. Willow Pavilion, top floor.


    A veiled woman, whose age and appearance were unclear, watched the flying boat in the sky.


    She scrutinized the vaguely visible young man in white.


    Finally, she looked at the girl in the green robes behind him, her gaze carrying some deep meaning.


    In a trance, her heart seemed to fly far away, merging with the graceful figure of the girl in the green robes.


    ...


    On the flying boat, Mu Bingyun looked downcast, silent.


    From today on, she would leave Feiyue Lake, where she was born and raised, parting with her kin and master.


    Looking at the young man in white in front of her, who was as serene as an ancient wood, Mu Bingyun''s clear eyes gradually became firm and calm.


    Ten dayster.


    Ten dayster, the flying boat entered Wuqi Mountain, where the misty clouds were fresh and clear, and descended toward one of its three main peaks: the Little Turtle Peak.


    Mu Bingyun''s heart stirred slightly, sensing a spiritual energy environment better than Moonheart Ind.


    "Brother Lan, you''re back!"


    A crisp, bell-like female voice came, carrying seven parts joy and three parts coquettishness.


    Dressed in a beige skirt, the pure-looking Guan Qiaozhi came forward.


    Behind her was a basket-sized spirit turtle, like a clumsy follower, constantly sucking at the heel of her skirt.


    "Who is this youngdy?"


    Guan Qiaozhi paused upon seeing Mu Bingyun.


    The girl in the green robes before her had arched brows like green willows, a face as white as snow, and an aura of aloofness.


    Her beauty and temperament were rarely seen in Guan Qiaozhi''s life, only surpassed by that Foundation Establishment fairy Zhao.


    Guan Qiaozhi was stunned by her beauty but also felt a sense of crisis.


    "This is Mu Bingyun, the disciple of an old acquaintance." Lan Chang''an introduced them.


    "So, it''s Miss Mu. Please take a seat and consider this ce as your own."


    Guan Qiaozhi warmly weed her as half a hostess.


    "Thank you, Aunt Guan."


    Mu Bingyun greeted cautiously, not wanting to offend Lan Chang''an''s closepanion.


    Aunt Guan?


    Guan Qiaozhi''s smile froze, her chest heaving with anger: "Is she mocking my age?"


    "You two can address each other as peers."


    Lan Chang''an saw through Guan Qiaozhi''s thoughts.


    In the early days, he and Master Guan had a rtionship that was both master and friend.


    Guan Qiaozhi was several decades younger than him, with an age gaprger than that between most fathers and daughters.


    Of course, Mu Bingyun was even younger, not yet thirty, and by seniority, was the great-niece of Mu Xiuyun.


    "Peers?"


    Guan Qiaozhi thought for a moment, feeling even worse.


    Was Senior Brother Lan nning to take Mu Bingyun as a concubine, hence suggesting they address each other as peers?


    That day, Guan Qiaozhi prepared a feast of spiritual food to wee Mu Bingyun to Little Turtle Peak. Mu Bingyun chose a side room within the cave mansion, thus settling down at Little Turtle Peak.


    ...


    Three dayster, Lan Chang''an finalized a n for Mu Bingyun to restore her foundation.


    Besides the secret technique of the Evergreen Technique for treatment, there was also a nourishing medicinal soup from his past life.


    The medicinal soup was a cover, perhaps slightly effective if consumed but it could not repair the damage done to her foundation.


    "Uncle Lan."


    Mu Bingyun walked into the medicine room, ready to undergo the nurturing treatment.


    Inside the medicine room, besides somemon medicinal supplies, there was a soft bed.


    "Drink this bowl of medicinal soup, then lie t on the bed."


    Lan Chang''an instructed.


    "Okay."


    Mu Bingyun drank the nourishing soup, lifted her skirt, andy on the soft bed.


    Earlier, Lan Chang''an had given her a jade slip, exining the process of the treatment.


    On the bed, Mu Bingyun''s figure was slender, her waist like a willow, her curves graceful, and her skin as white as snow, like a piece of natural ice jade.


    As the soup entered her stomach, Lan Chang''an extended his pale hand, cing it on her abdomen.


    Now at Foundation Establishment level, he no longer needed to press directly against the skin to treat a person like he once did.


    "Rx."


    Lying down, Mu Bingyun closed her eyes, her long eyshes fluttering slightly.


    Lan Chang''an''s hand, through her clothes, felt the smoothness of her abdomen, with a faint lotus-like fragrance lingering at his nose.


    "Alright."


    Lan Chang''an only symbolically performed treatment for a moment, using the Evergreen secret spell, consuming a day''s lifespan.


    Mu Bingyun lifted her skirt and got off the bed, her head lowered, her pale face tinged with red.


    "Hmm? This is..."


    Mu Bingyun, calming her emotions, sensed a kind of pale green warmth filled with vitality, seeping into the damaged part of her dantian, akin to the nurturing provided by the mother''s womb.


    "How do you feel?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "Veryf..."


    Mu Bingyun, blushing, changed her words, "The difort in my dantian seems to have lessened."


    "That''s good. We will continue this treatment every two months." With those words, Lan Chang''an left the medicine room.


    ...


    "Can I infuse my Evergreen secret spell into the medicinal soup?"


    Back in his secret room, Lan Chang''an had a thought.


    This intimate treatment inevitably carried some degree of suggestive and awkward implications between a single man and woman. Especially in the abdominal area, it might affect the girl''s mental and emotional state.


    Lan Chang''an immediately experimented.


    Consuming several days of lifespan, he used the Evergreen secret spell to infuse a sprout-like green glow into the medicinal soup.


    In his perception, the life force containing the mystery of time in the soup quickly dissipated and faded. It was as if worldly cultivators couldn''t grasp time.


    Lan Chang''an shook his head; at least, ordinary medicinal soup would not suffice.


    ...


    A yearter, Lan Chang''an turned eighty-four.


    On this day, he received a letter from Li Erqing, informing him of the Maple Leaf Huang Family''s situation.


    "The Huang Family is left with only one Foundation Establishment cultivator, and the surrounding forces are eyeing the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town."


    "But six months ago, the remaining Foundation Establishment female cultivator, ''Huang Yingchun,'' married ate-stage Foundation Establishment expert. The Huang Family''s assets and the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town were preserved."


    This oue surprised Lan Chang''an but was also within reason.


    The remaining Huang Family Foundation Establishment cultivator was a beautiful woman. Foundation Establishment female cultivators were rare in the cultivation world, let alone those who possessed massive assets. Naturally, their union would entail some form of mutually beneficial exchange; however, exactly what price the Huang Family had paid or how many details were involved remained unknown to outsiders.


    Ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator was a powerful deterrent. Starting from Foundation Establishment, each major realm''ste stage was referred to as a great cultivator of the same realm. It represented the pinnacle of that realm, with formidable strength.


    Last time, Lan Chang''an''s second-rank superior-grade lightning talisman had instantly dispatched Huang Changling, whose protective shield had been as flimsy as paper.


    It was equivalent to ate Foundation Establishment cultivator''s spell summoned by a top-tier magic weapon, its power was great.


    Lan Chang''an had some apprehension aboutte Foundation Establishment cultivators; they were not easy to handle. It was best to avoid confronting them.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had left any loose ends regarding the Huang Family incident and Huang Tankong''s death appeared natural.


    Thete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator merely used their daopanionship status to provide protection in exchange for benefits, not to serve as a hired thug of the Huang Family.

 Chapter 114: Second-rank Puppet Master

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Wuqi Mountain, Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an sat in the pavilion, putting away the letter in his hand.


    In the nearby lotus pond, the flowers bloomed splendidly, their petals white with red veins and tender budsden with dewdrops, their fragrance filling the air.


    On the other side of the pond stood a girl dressed in teal robes by the water''s edge, herplexion pale as snow and waist slender like willow twigs. Her skirt fluttered gently in the breeze, graceful as wisps of cloud drifting between peaks.


    In the year since she hade to Little Turtle Peak, Mu Bingyun had be increasingly reticent, her demeanor more aloof, resembling a snow lotus on a high peak.


    "Quite simr," Lan Chang''an nced over.


    Mu Bingyun''s appearance and temperament were very simr to the youngdy from back then, only her character was a bit colder and less outgoing.


    This was likely due to her upbringing.Orphaned since childhood, she was adopted and taken as a disciple by Mu Xiuyun,ckingplete parental affection. Moreover, her master''s experiences had left her distrustful of men.


    Upon arriving at Little Turtle Peak, Guan Qiaozhi was wary of Mu Bingyun, outwardly warm but would not treat her sincerely.


    Lan Chang''an, besides his cultivation, had other responsibilities like body refining, talisman drawing, nurturing treasure talismans, and studying puppets. He didn''t have much time to care for her. Apart from the bi-monthly nurturing sessions, he only asionally guided her in cultivation and talisman drawing.


    "Squeak squeak!"


    The Earth Burrowing Rat ran up to Mu Bingyun with a bright mountain flower in its mouth.


    "For me?"


    Mu Bingyun reached out her slender fingers to take the mountain flower, and a rare smile broke out on her delicate face, like the morning sun melting winter snow.


    Of the two pets on Little Turtle Peak, the Profound Water Turtle was closer to Guan Qiaozhi because she had apanied and fed it since it was small, while the Earth Burrowing Rat remained loyal only to Lan Chang''an and showed no interest in the two female cultivators.


    This action was instructed by Lan Chang''an. He mainly worried that Mu Bingyun, having nopany, would be too withdrawn.


    "Bingyun," Lan Chang''an called out.


    "Uncle Lan," Mu Bingyun walked to the pavilion and bowed slightly.


    Not far away, Guan Qiaozhi, who was tending the herb garden with the Profound Water Turtle, listened attentively.


    "Has your injury healed?"


    "It''s no longer a problem. Thanks to Uncle Lan''s nurturing, the difort in my dantian has lessened during cultivation, and my magical power has started to improve, though a bit slower than before the injury."


    As Mu Bingyun spoke, her tone lightened a few points. This was the best news she had received in the year she had been at Wuqi Mountain. Lan Chang''an''s nurturing methods were effective indeed.


    She had gone from initial difort and suspicion to gradual eptance, then respect and guilt. Such unique nurturing methods, if not for old sentiments, would Uncle Lan bother to spend over a decade helping her recover?


    "That''s good."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, then shifted the conversation.


    "Little Turtle Peak doesn''t keep idle hands."


    "From now on, you will take over some of Qiaozhi''s work in preparing talisman materials. Mixing spirit ink, maintaining talisman brushes, and the final step of crafting talisman paper."


    Mu Bingyun was a mid-grade first-rank talisman master, suitable for some technical work.


    "Yes, Uncle Lan." Mu Bingyun''s clear eyes brightened, feeling a weight lifting off her shoulders. Cultivating and being nurtured at Little Turtle Peak, living without contributing, she was very uneasy in her heart.


    Mu Bingyun went back to her cave to prepare for her new tasks.


    "Senior Brother Lan, one person is enough to prepare talisman materials. Why have Bingyun..." Guan Qiaozhi''s voice trembled softly, almost on the verge of tears.


    "I have more important tasks for you." Lan Chang''an was already prepared, handing her a jade slip.


    Guan Qiaozhi ced the jade slip against her forehead to check its contents, soon showing a look of surprise.


    "Keep this matter confidential," Lan Chang''an instructed.


    "Handle those crucial puppet parts in the secret room."


    "Don''t worry, Senior Brother Lan."


    Guan Qiaozhi''s eyebrows lifted, her face beaming with joy. Now, she alone shared a secret with Senior Brother Lan. Besides being a second-rank talisman master, he was also working toward bing one in the puppetry path.


    ...


    In a blink of an eye, two more years passed.


    Lan Chang''an turned eighty-six years old and had been at Wuqi Mountain for fifteen years.


    On this day, in the secret room of his cave, Lan Chang''an squatted on the ground, installing the final ck armor piece onto a two-zhang tall humanoid puppet.


    This humanoid puppet resembled a statue, d in armor and holding a long spear.


    He removed the protective heart mirror from the puppet''s chest and embedded several mid-grade spirit stones inside. The energy core of the puppet was naturally a key protected area.


    Lan Chang''an performed the puppet control technique, and the two-zhang tall statue puppet emitted a faint green light, with the sound of mechanisms faintly operating. With a swing of the spear, muted gusts of wind surged forth. The spiritual pressure it exuded wasparable to an early Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "A second-rank puppet, finallypleted." Lan Chang''an smiled with satisfaction.


    In this life, he had finally acquired another second-rank skill to protect his path. The way of puppetry could significantly increase his margin for error.


    For instance, for someone like Huang Tankong, whose lifespan was nearing its end. By sending out a second-rank puppet, he could force him to exhaust the rest of his life.


    If he encountered a truly great opportunity involving the quality of the formed dan or the hope of advancing to Nascent Soul, he wouldn''t remain unmoved, even with plenty of lifespan left to spare.


    Puppets would serve as great cannon fodder in moments of need.


    "Creating puppets is indeed costly, both in terms of time and energy." Lan Chang''an put away the second-rank statue puppet, feeling sentimental.


    Spending part of each day on this second-rank puppet had taken over two months. In this life, if he hadn''t practiced the Evergreen Technique, which afforded him ample leisure time, he wouldn''t have been able to muster the energy to cultivate his body while simultaneously raising his puppetry skills to the second rank.


    Every cultivator had only limited energy in their lifetime. Personal cultivation alone takes a lot of time, and one must seek resources to break through small and major realms.


    It is rare for any cultivator to manage to raise a skill to a proficient level alongside their main cultivation. Hard work alone isn''t sufficient; innate talent and the corresponding inheritance must also be present.


    Lan Chang''an''s alchemy skill had taken decades to barely touch the threshold of the second rank.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an kept his second-rank puppet master status temporarily secret from the public.


    Even Guan Qiaozhi only knew he was trying to advance to a second-rank puppet master.


    Next, Lan Chang''an needed to procure materials for the second-rank puppets. Materials for making puppets varied widely depending on the type. Spirit wood, parts from demon beasts, and various ores could all be used for puppet materials.


    Materials for low-grade second-rank puppets were rtively easy to find, Lan Chang''an didn''t need to attend auctions to acquire them.


    Lan Chang''an flew to Huanglong Immortal City, where he easily bought what he needed with his Huanglong Pavilion VIP token.


    Recently, he had another coboration with the Beast Taming Zhou Family. While at it, he delivered the prepared talismans to the Zhou Family cultivators stationed there.


    Zhou Qingxuan was no longer in Huanglong Immortal City. She had stayed there previously to gain experience and earn some credits.


    Negotiating with Lan Chang''an now was another Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Zhou Family. His name was Zhou Jingxuan, a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator. Zhou Jingxuan was a middle-aged schr who was kind and talkative.


    Lan Chang''an had heard that Zhou Jingxuan had almost been killed by Liang Shaotian years ago; it was Zhou Qingxuan''s quick thinking that saved her uncle''s life.


    Lan Chang''an chatted with Zhou Jingxuan for a long time, learning much about the inner workings of the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    For instance, eighteen years ago, Huanglong Immortal secretly attempted to breakthrough to thete stage of Core Formation and failed.


    Lan Chang''an, in his previous life, had reached the pinnacle of thete Core Formation Realm. He deeply understood the difficulty of reaching thete Core Formation stage.


    In his previous life, with considerable opportunities and family support, he had paid a steep price to barely cross that threshold.


    "Huanglong Immortal attempted thete stage eighteen years ago and failed.


    "And Tuoba Jin''s challenge to Huanglong Immortal''s Fake-Dan disciple as a whetstone happened over a decade ago."


    Now, Lan Chang''an understood the details.


    Huanglong Immortal, at the mid-Core Formation stage, with a third-rank Huang Dragon of earth grade bloodline, was very strong among Core Formation Immortals and was revered as the number one loose cultivator in Liang.


    If this man had seeded in advancing to thete Core Formation stage eighteen years ago, Tuoba Jin likely would''ve targeted someone else for his challenge.


    After that challenge, Tuoba Jin went into seclusion and advanced to the Core Formation Realm within two years.


    ording to Zhou Jingxuan, the quality of Tuoba Jin''s core was exceptional, reaching the threshold of a Golden-Dan.


    Tuoba Jin hadn''t always borne the name "Jin"(gold), butter changed it to signify his aspiration towards attaining a Golden-Dan.


    "A Golden-Dan is essentially a Nascent Soul seed." Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but yearn.


    In his previous life, with high grade spiritual roots and the full support of his family, he had only managed to cultivate a mid-quality True-Dan.


    Out of ten Core Formation Immortals, at least nine had earth or heaven-grade spiritual roots or innate treasure bodies.


    Tuoba Jin was rumored to have high grade spiritual roots and an innate treasure body.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an returned to Wuqi Mountain from Huanglong Immortal City with a pile of puppet materials.


    Guan Qiaozhi possessed both dexterity and ingenuity, making her highly skilled at handling puppet parts¡ªotherwise, Puppet Master Sang back then wouldn''t have gifted her one of his puppets.


    Lan Chang''an began nning for his second puppet. In fact, he wanted to create a second-rank flying puppet, but unfortunately, flying puppets required higher proficiency and rarer materials, so they weren''t suitable for his current circumstances.


    He nced at the Profound Water Turtle not far away and got an idea. Turtle-type demon beasts were known for their formidable defensive capabilities.


    "I''ll craft a turtle puppet that prioritizes defense over attack. It can serve as a shield in critical situations." Lan Chang''an decided on his second puppet.


    As he was pondering...


    Whoosh!


    A streak of light shot out from beyond Wuqi Mountain toward Xiao Pan Peak several li away. It was a tall, curvaceous, and serene female cultivator in a simple dress.


    "This Fairy Shi has been going out frequently in recent years." Lan Chang''an took a look.


    This time, Shi Manrong''s aura seemed somewhat disordered, and she flew haphazardly, as if in haste. Lan Chang''an was unsure what had urred but did not pry further.


    A few years ago, Shi Manrong had tried to y hard to get, attempting to understand the second-rank defensive formation in Lan Chang''an''s residence from his previous life but she failed.


    Since then, she had refrained from attempting any such feat again, asionally visiting Little Turtle Peak only to bring small gifts and exchange pleasantries with Lan Chang''an, maintaining a rtionship that remained purely courteous and amicable.


    Shi Manrong was a well-known formation genius in the surrounding neighborhood, with the potential to be a third-rank formation master in the future. Lan Chang''an was happy socializing with her.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    Shi Manrong visited Little Turtle Peak.


    This time, she had returned to her usual graceful and calm demeanor, bringing a small gift box.


    However, Lan Chang''an was busy today, working on second-rank puppet parts in the secret room of his cave.


    "Sister Shi, Brother Lan is in seclusion and cannot receive visitors."


    "Qiaozhi, give this to Talisman Master Lan." Fairy Shi smiled warmly, her voice gentle.


    "Okay."


    Guan Qiaozhi epted the small jade box.


    After Shi Manrong left, Guan Qiaozhi returned to the cave mansion and, with Lan Chang''an''s permission to enter, delivered the small jade box to the secret room.


    The small jade box had ayer of restriction, which could be easily opened as long as one was at the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Lan Chang''an''s powerful spiritual sense swept through it beforehand, finding no abnormalities.


    Opening the jade box, there were two items: a voice transmission talisman and a jade slip.


    Lan Chang''an activated the voice transmission talisman.


    A gentle, warm female voice flowed out:


    "After knowing each other for over a decade, I deeply trust Fellow Daoist Lan''s character and temperament."


    "I wish to be honest: to make a deal with Fellow Daoist Lan and offer an opportunity."


    After listening to the transmission talisman, Lan Chang''an picked up the jade slip and examined its contents.


    His expression shifted slightly, showing a trace of surprise.


    "This time, she does seem to be sincere."


    The jade slip contained two main pieces of information.


    One of them was about theyout of the protective formation on Xiao Pan Peak, including its vulnerabilities and back doors. Lan Chang''an had been to Xiao Pan Peak before and confirmed that the information was urate. This was tantamount to saying that this Fairy Shi had granted Lan Chang''an the key to the main door of her cave, as well as the hidden passageways within.


    ...

 Chapter 115: Opportunity and Restriction

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    The first piece of information in the jade slip demonstrated Fairy Shi''s sincerity.


    The second piece of information was a set of second-rank superior-grade formation master inheritance. It wasn''t just a single formation; it was an entire set of skills and techniques.


    In Lan Chang''an''s previous life, before his family produced an immortal, such a second-rank superior-grade formation inheritance was incredibly rare and difficult to obtain.


    The jade slip only showed half of the inheritance content, with theplete inheritance offered as a trade item. Additionally, Shi Manrong''s voice transmission talisman mentioned an opportunity.


    "This woman is being open and honest and should be genuinely intending to trade. It''s unlikest time when she employed some tricks," Lan Chang''an pondered.


    He didn''t mind making trades. For example, the Foundation Establishment Pill he sold to the Mu Family fetched five thousand spirit stones, helping him avoid some risks and mutually benefiting both parties.


    The value of the second-rank superior-grade formation inheritance far surpassed the second-rank protective formation in Lan Chang''an''s residence. Thetter was just a formation, not an inheritance.


    Even though he had formation knowledge from his previous life, more formation inheritances were always wee, as they helped adapt to various environments.As long as the benefits were sufficient, he could rece the defensive formation of his cave mansion with other formations as needed.


    Shi Manrong was a formation genius with the potential to be a third-rank formation master, which was one of the reasons Lan Chang''an valued her. In his previous life, when he achieved Core Formation, he still respected third-rank formation masters.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an grasped theyout and vulnerabilities of the formation where Shi Manrong resided. In theory, he could sneak into Fairy Shi''s cave residence through the back door at night. However, Lan Chang''an didn''t want to be so sneaky.


    Shi Manrong''s openness likely served to show her sincerity, perhaps with some subtle hints and temptations.


    Lan Chang''an remained unmoved. Since they were making a trade, he preferred to do it openly.


    The next morning, he sent a voice transmission talisman to Fairy Shi at Xiao Pan Peak.


    That''s right, Lan Chang''an chose his territory as the trading location. It gave him a home advantage and reduced risks. The defense formation of his cave mansion was in a semi-activated state. As long as Shi Manrong didn''t touch the formation''s core or observe it for an extended period, there would be no issues.


    That afternoon Shi Manrongnded gracefully on the Little Turtle Peak.


    "We have been neighbors for more than ten years, and now, at Talisman Master Lan''s invitation, I am honored," said Fairy Shi, her hair elegantly styled, makeup immacte, exuding grace and poise in her moonlit dress, resembling a refined female teacher.


    Lan Chang''an noted the teasing in her words.


    Despite knowing each other for over a decade, it was the first time Lan Chang''an had invited the female formation master since moving to Little Turtle Peak.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an hosted Shi Manrong in his study. Guan Qiao-zhi poured tea and then left the room.


    Shi Manrong sat in a dignified manner, her eyes clear as water, and spoke:


    "Today¡¯s discussion involves confidential matters concerning myself. I hope Fellow Daoist Lan can set up a restriction."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, casting a spell to iste the study''s sound and light.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, when I invited you to my humble abode years ago, I was rather impolite and presumptuous. Manrong sincerely apologizes today." Shi Manrong walked forward with lotus-like steps, her graceful body bending low in a bow.


    "Fairy Shi, there''s no need for such formalities..."


    Halfway through his sentence, Lan Chang''an froze. Fairy Shi wasn''t merely bowing; she bent down, first removing her embroidered shoes to reveal her delicate feet d in silken white stockings. Then, she lifted her skirt slightly, revealing a fair, jade-like calf, and moved to sit on Lan Chang''an''sp.


    "Fairy Shi, is this what you call being open and honest?"


    Lan Chang''an raised a hand to stop her, cing his palm on her slender waist only to discover that therey between them merely a thinyer of outer garment.


    When discussing business, he had no interest in entangling himself with transient affairs between men and women.


    "Am I not beautiful?" Fairy Shi blinked, her voice gentle and soft.


    "Fairy Shi, since you''vee here for a transaction, please avoid any distractions." Lan Chang''an stated bluntly, releasing a gentle force from his palm to push Shi Manrong away.


    "I understand! Personal feelings and transactions, each to their own..."


    Shi Manrong''s pretty face showed a mix of anger and frustration as she stood up and smoothed her dress. She seemed to forget her shoes as she moved back to her seat.


    "Please take a look, Fellow Daoist Lan." Shi Manrong regained her elegant and calm demeanor, sending a jade slip towards Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an took the jade slip and examined it. Momentster, his expression turned to surprise as he looked at Fairy Shi. Suddenly, he understood her previous actions.


    If one couldn''t even protect one''s own life, even the most beautiful and noble woman might break her boundaries, eitherpromising or bing venomous.


    Shi Manrong''s behavior was rtively restrained, still holding some bottom lines.


    ...


    The jade slip described how twenty years ago, Shi Manrong had a restriction ced on her by a Fake-Dan cultivator. It was a special restriction that was connected to her sea of consciousness.


    As long as that Fake-Dan cultivator willed it within a certain distance, or if too much time passed without reinforcing the restriction, Shi Manrong''s sea of consciousness would be annihted!


    At that time, Shi Manrong was already a second-rank formation master, renowned for her talent. The Fake-Dan cultivator''s goal was to conquer an ancient ruin hidden in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    The ruins contained numerous formation restrictions that needed to be ovee. The Fake-Dan Immortal was also a second-rank formation master but had ordinary talent, needing Shi Manrong''s assistance toe up with ideas.


    To ensure her full cooperation, the Fake-Dan cultivator treated her rtively well, giving her a certain degree of freedom. He even promised that once they conquered the ancient ruins, he would share the formation inheritance within with Fairy Shi.


    But how could Shi Manrong ept being controlled by someone else? She refused to tolerate such treatment, fearing that she''d be abandoned after aplishing her task¡ªlike a horse whosebor has been exhausted.


    She had been secretly researching ways to break the restriction all these years. Restrictions and formations sharedmon ground: Restrictions constituted a branch of formations, representing more specialized applications thereof.


    The defense formation Lan Chang''an set up on Little Turtle Peak was a simplified version of an ancient third-rank formation, offering decent istion against spiritual sense.


    This formation not only involved spiritual sense. It also had simrities with the formations within the ancient ruins Shi Manrong mentioned.


    Obtaining this formation would benefit Shi Manrong in two ways. Firstly, it could help her find a way to break the restriction in her sea of consciousness. Her outstanding talent in formations made her want to give it a try.


    Secondly, drawing upon this formation would aid her in understanding the formation restrictions within the ancient ruins.


    ...


    "Fairy Shi, you don''t expect me to intervene in a Fake-Dan cultivator''s affairs, do you?" Lan Chang''an couldn''t help butugh despite feeling some sympathy for her unfortunate situation.


    Such was the trouble that came with being a genius.


    "There''s no need to worry, Fellow Daoist Lan. That ''Qi Immortal'' met an unfortunate fate two years ago and fell into a trap in the ancient ruins, without much chance to resist before being swallowed by a killing formation." Shi Manrong said with a smile, brushing her hair aside.


    "The Fake-Dan Immortal is dead? What was his background?" Lan Chang''an was astonished.


    He suspected that Shi Manrong had a hand in the Fake-Dan cultivator falling into the trap. However, even if she did plot against him, it was just self-defense.


    It was not surprising news that a Fake-Dan cultivator perished in an ancient ruin. In the eyes of true Core Formation cultivators, Fake-Dan cultivators were often looked down upon, being considered the lowest on the chain of disdain.


    Their cores were of inferior quality, with low purity of core power, possessing only forty percent of the mana of a True-Dan and incapable of elevating their cultivation realms any further. Although they could use magic treasures, they could not utilize their true power.


    "Qi Immortal was a wandering cultivator from a neighboring country, holding a nominal position in Huanglong Immortal City." Shi Manrong replied.


    Such nominal positions were usually quite free, and most of the time, they weren''t even present in Huanglong Immortal City, not even having soul tokens stored there.


    "A nominal position in Huanglong Immortal City?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered, closing his eyes.


    At this moment, he fused with the second life''s soul imprint, his senses heightened as he probed Shi Manrong''s sea of consciousness.


    Regarding the restriction, as she described it, Shi Manrong hadn''t lied.


    From the perspective of a Core Formation cultivator, the restriction wasn''t particrly advanced. The restriction was like a lock, with the key known only to the one who ced it. To break it directly, one would need a spiritual sense stronger than that of the Fake-Dan cultivator.


    Alternatively, one could have a profound understanding of formation restrictions to devise a clever method to break it. This was also the method Shi Manrong sought.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan might suspect that Qi Immortal''s demise was my doing," Shi Manrong sighed softly.


    "In fact, the main reason was that Qi Immortal hastily broke through a formation gate, and saw an opportunity inside the ruins. In his momentary distraction, he fell prey to the trap."


    "What did Qi Immortal see?"


    "Due to my lower cultivation realm, I couldn''t see clearly from behind. Qi Immortal was ecstatic, nearly delirious, shouting about ''Yin Yang Water'' and ''Xuanmu Vine''." Shi Manrong recalled.


    Yin Yang Water and Xuanmu Vine?


    Lan Chang''an''s heart raced, understanding why the Fake-Dan cultivator went mad.


    Under normal circumstances, Fake-Dan cultivators'' realms would remain stagnant forever, unless they encountered a great opportunity, and Yin Yang Water was precisely one such opportunity.


    It could help a cultivator safely dissolve a Fake-Dan or True-Dan, returning their mana to the liquid state of Foundation Establishment. On this basis, the next attempt at forming a core would slightly improve the quality of the core.


    Xuanmu Vine was a legendary heavenly material, it could be used as the embryo of a wood-type magic treasure with extremely high growth potential.


    "Xuanmu Vine..."


    Lan Chang''an muttered, musing over how well-suited this item would be for refining a life-bound magic treasure for himself. Even in his previous life, he''d never managed to procure such high-quality magic treasure embryos.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, this is the opportunity I mentioned."


    "If you can help me break the restriction, and I advance further in formations, we can jointly benefit from the ancient ruins."


    "I have only five or six years left to live. By then, the restriction in my sea of consciousness will copse." Shi Manrong''s face was filled with sorrow as she exined her predicament.


    "Fairy Shi, a Fake-Dan-level restriction is beyond my capability."


    Lan Chang''an remainedposed. In truth, if he summoned the second life''s soul imprint, dispelling this restriction would be child''s y. However, it would consume his trump card for ten years and expose the secret of the Nine Seal Stele, which wasn''t worth it.


    "I only wish to trade for the defensive formation in your residence to increase my chances of breaking the restriction." Shi Manrong pleaded softly.


    Over the years, Shi Manrong hade to trust Lan Chang''an''s character and integrity. He happened to be able to provide what she needed. Thus, she was straightforward and sought cooperation with him.


    Fairy Shi had no significant background and was a talented and beautiful female cultivator. Allowing others ess to one''s sea of consciousness to break through the restriction meant opening oneself uppletely, allowing others to exploit every aspect without conditions¡ªa risk that could only be taken with someone infinitely trusted.


    If she were to cooperate with other powerful individuals, it would likely end with either her being swallowed up without any bone crumbs left, or being ced under yet another restriction.


    "I can''t trade that formation."


    Lan Chang''an was toozy to undergo the hassle of recing the formation.


    "However, I do have a Foundation Establishment-level restriction technique involving the sea of consciousness that I can trade with Fairy Shi. Perhaps it could serve as a reference."


    "Fellow Daoist Lan is kind."


    Shi Manrong epted the jade slip Lan Chang''an handed over and, after a brief inspection, showed a trace of joy.


    The jade slip contained a rare Foundation Establishment-level restriction involving the sea of consciousness.


    If she couldprehend it, it would be as effective as obtaining the mysterious formation in Lan Chang''an''s residence, though it wouldn''t help with the ancient ruins'' formation restrictions.


    "This is my payment."


    Shi Manrong took out a jade slip and a set of formation disks.


    The jade slip contained the remaining half of the second-rank superior-grade formation master inheritance. The set of formation disks was a second-rank mid-grade portable formation¡ªone suitable for temporary use when traveling, quite practical.


    Lan Chang''an knew very well that, based on the value of what had been exchanged, he''d earned far more than just a little bit.


    The restriction technique he provided merely gave some insight into how to crack the Fake-Dan restriction, offering only a glimmer of hope.

 Chapter 116: Ninety Years of Progress

    Whether or not the restriction could be lifted still depends on Shi Manrong''s fortune. Lan Chang''an estimated that the sess rate remained rtively low. If Shi Manrong could truly lift the restriction with this method, achieving the third-rank formation master level in the future could be considered a sure thing.


    By then, not only would Lan Chang''an look at her with new-found respect, he might even consider hugging her thigh in advance.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, do you really have no thoughts about that ancient ruin?" Shi Manrong''s expression was slightly disappointed.


    Lan Chang''an seemed interested in the opportunity she mentioned but showed no intention of cooperation. Shi Manrong had thought this would be the biggest temptation to draw Lan Chang''an''s help, followed by her beauty and talent.


    That ancient ruin was suspected to have been created by a formation master, containing high-level formation master inheritances, which were highly attractive to her.


    "Even a Fake-Dan Immortal perished in that ruin. This Lan has some self-awareness." Lan Chang''an shook his head with a smile.


    The opportunities and treasures in the ruin were indeed very enticing to him. Involving the quality of the finished core, and the life-bound magic treasure, even if he had sufficient lifespan, he would still have to considerpeting for them.


    But all this was contingent on whether or not he could guarantee his own safety. For instance, when he''d ventured into the ck Fog Mountain Range, though there were inherent risks, they were manageable overall.


    "By the way, Fairy Shi, besides you and Qi Immortal, does anyone else know the location of that ancient ruin?" Lan Chang''an asked a crucial detail."Qi Immortal is a wandering cultivator who enjoys exploring and inadvertently discovered that ancient ruin. To keep the secret and enjoy the opportunities alone, only I assisted him after being imnted with a restriction." Shi Manrong exined.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t fully believe all of this. He couldn''t be sure if that Fake-Dan Immortal left any fallback methods to inform others through certain means.


    That ancient ruin¡­He would have to wait and see for at least a few decades, waiting for his strength to rise above the Fake-Dan, and only with the help of a third-rank formation master would he consider it. Otherwise, regardless of how enticing Shi Manrong made her description sound, he wouldn''t spare it a nce.


    ¡­


    After the transaction, both parties got what they needed.


    Shi Manrong''s only regret was not obtaining Lan Chang''an''s full assistance.


    Over their years of acquaintance, she felt this neighboring peak master was not an ordinary cultivator. An elder at the Foundation Establishment stage with an excellent mindset, owning a second-rank demonic beast, raising a Profound Water Turtle, and he had a defensive formation simr to those in the ancient ruin.


    Moreover, this neighbor''s appearance, temperament, and principles greatly appealed to her. If he were the kind of man who took feelings too seriously and clung to her, she would have no interest.


    "Fairy Shi, please step aside."


    Lan Chang''an raised his hand, preparing to lift the restriction in the study.


    He found that Fairy Shi hadn''t put on her shoes yet, and a pair of delicate jade feet in white stockings stepped on the floor.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, since we''ve finished our transaction, shouldn''t we discuss personal feelings?" Shi Manrong smiled charmingly, her graceful steps elegant. Previously, Lan Chang''an had expressed that transactions and personal matters should be handled separately.


    She wrapped her arm around Lan Chang''an''s, looking delicate and pitiful, her head nestled against his chest.


    "How does Fairy Shi want to discuss it?"


    This time, Lan Chang''an didn''t resist, smiling slightly as he held Fairy Shi''s waist.


    "How to discuss it is up to Fellow Daoist Lan."


    Shi Manrong''s face, like a silver te, blushed faintly, her hand lightly touching her skirt''s waist.


    A cool breeze passed below Lan Chang''an, and Fairy Shi''s moonlit dress slipped down, revealing her smooth jade-like legs.


    Shi Manrong softly said, "My body is that of a broken willow. Bound by the restriction, I fear my life may notst many years. Fellow Daoist Lan need not pity me."


    There was no bed in the study; the two embraced intimately for a long time, moving to the desk.


    Outside the cave, the moonlight was enchanting.


    Two hourster.


    Shi Manrong tidied her cloud-like hair, and cast a cleansing spell, leaving her moonlit dress spotless. She gracefully bent over to slip on her embroidered shoes, but a sudden pain appeared between her brows, apanied by a stifled groan.


    Lan Chang''an smiled apologetically and helped support Fairy Shi.


    This Fairy Shi, with the charm of a mature woman, gave Lan Chang''an the best experience he ever had in this life.


    After letting Shi Manrong rest and regain her strength, Lan Chang''an escorted her out of the cave mansion.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, if one day, the restriction on me activates, and I no longer exist, will you remember me?" Before parting, Shi Manrong looked at him, seemingly with a hint of sorrow.


    "Be optimistic." Lan Chang''an smiled in response, encouraging her.


    Her words and actions were gentle, but he met them with firmness. He wasn''t susceptible to such temptations.


    Shi Manrong probably had alternative ns to break the restriction, either risky or requiring some unwilling sacrifice.


    ¡­


    Returning to the cave mansion.


    Lan Chang''an reviewed the transaction just now, checking for any gaps.


    Firstly, the formation in that ancient ruin had simrities to the one he obtained from the ancient cultivation civilization in his previous life. This was likely why Shi Manrong initially took an interest in it.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t even ask for the exact location of the ruin. Without the assistance of a third-rank formation master, he wouldn''t consider it at all.


    Secondly, Shi Manrong was suspected of pitting a Fake-Dan Immortal, or at least have given it a push, she may not be an ordinary cultivator.


    After the transaction, Fairy Shi continued their transient rtionship, perhaps not just out of admiration or to alleviate her loneliness. She might have an intuition that he wasn''t an ordinary cultivator, so she clung to him as if grasping at straws.


    ¡­


    In the following half-year, Wuqi Mountain remained peaceful.


    Fairy Shi''s visits became less frequent; she often stayed within her cave or hurriedly ventured outside.


    Lan Chang''an guessed she went to the market or immortal cities, seeking various methods or items to break the restriction.


    The spell would not activate for another five to six years¡ªthere was still time before it became a crisis.


    One day, Lin Ye invited Lan Chang''an to visit him at Little Pill Peak. Compared to when he first settled in Wuqi Mountain, Lin Ye had a few more wrinkles on his face.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, have you heard about Alchemist Hua''s assassination?"


    After three rounds of drinking, red spots appeared on Lin Ye''s old face, and he chuckled.


    "Alchemist Hua''s assassination? When did this happen?" Lan Chang''an asked in surprise.


    "Just recently, in the past month. It''s said he was ambushed by hired assassins on his way home. Hua Heng barely escaped death using his life-saving means but was seriously injured." Lin Ye said gloatingly.


    Hired assassins?


    No matter if it''s true, it sparked an idea in Lan Chang''an.


    As long as the employer kept their identity secret and had sufficient financial resources, the risk of hiring assassins was low.


    "Who would hire assassins to kill Alchemist Hua?" Lan Chang''an probed.


    "That''s unclear."


    Lin Ye stroked his beard and smiled.


    That is hard to say," Lin Ye said with a smile, stroking his beard. "This Hua Heng may appear reputable, but he employs underhanded tactics and petty tricks in his alchemy. Perhaps he once wronged someone, and attracted their hatred."


    ¡­


    Returning to his cave mansion, Lan Chang''an fell into deep thought.


    A scene from over a decade ago shed in his mind, where Alchemist Hua smilingly handed the just refined superior-quality Foundation Establishment Pill to Fu Xuemei.


    In that incident, Alchemist Hua was considered the mastermind and was the one proactively currying favor with Fu Xuemei.


    Now that Alchemist Hua was injured, it seemed like an opportune time for revenge. Lan Chang''an deliberated further but concluded this wasn''t necessarily the case.


    Alchemist Hua, who narrowly survived an assassination attempt, was now like a startled bird, more vignt than ever before.


    At the same time, he couldn''t be sure if this was a trap.


    Some years ago, Lan Chang''an inquired about Lin Ye and Alchemist Hua''s rtionship; they indeed had no interactions. No obvious suspicion arose from Lin Ye''s side.


    Perhaps the one who hired the assassins was Lin Ye. Seeing the assassination failed, he hinted to Lan Chang''an, hoping he would deliver another blow.


    "If there''s no reasonable scapegoat, killing Alchemist Hua might arouse Fu Xuemei''s suspicion."


    ¡­


    Another half a year passed.


    A significant event urred in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    Cultivators from the three major sects, Jin Yun Valley, Xuan Yin Pavilion, and Liuyun Sect,unched a full-scale assault on the hidden demonic cult stronghold near the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Liang Shaotian, who had already advanced to the early Core Formation Realm, engaged in a fierce battle with the sect''s experts. Ultimately, outnumbered, he was forced to retreat after sustaining injury.


    The demonic cult stronghold was destroyed by the sects of Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world. This battle greatly boosted the prestige of the several major sects.


    "The cultivation world''s situation is stable. Liang Shaotian''s high-profile actions, establishing a hidden stronghold is akin to iming the title of king over a mountain and defying the general trend. It''s unlikely to seed." Lan Chang''an wasn''t surprised by this result.


    The cultivators involved in the siege were just a small portion of the three major Core Formation sects, they hadn''t moved all their forces.


    The strongest faction in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, me Departing Pce, as well as the Qingzhu Sect in the eastern region, did not participate in the operation.


    ¡­


    Liang Shaotian''s grave injury and defeat urred when Lan Chang''an turned eighty-seven.


    His personal cultivation was approaching the third level of the Foundation Establishment stage. At this time, Lan Chang''an faced a problem: Guan Qiaozi had reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining. To be exact, she stepped into the ninthyer of Qi-Refining half a year ago.


    Counting the years, Guan Qiaozi had been serving Lan Chang''an''s every beck and call for a few decades already.


    One day, Lan Chang''an sent a message talisman, summoning Guan Qiaozi to the secret room.


    "Senior Brother Lan, what do you need from me?" Guan Qiaozi''s eyes sparkled with anticipation, her eyebrows painted and lips red, wearing a white gauze dress.


    Ignoring her gaze, Lan Chang''an asked sternly:


    "Qiaozi, have you made any preparations for Foundation Establishment?"


    "Foundation Establishment? Not yet." Guan Qiaozi was stunned for a moment, then shook her head. "Thanks to Senior Brother Lan''s care, reaching the ninthyer of Qi-Refining at my age is already no small feat. Living in the vast second-rank spiritual vein of Little Turtle Peak is already a blessing. As for the Foundation Establishment stage, I dare not hope for it."


    Guan Qiaozi knew how difficult it was to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill. It wasn''t just about having enough spirit stones. Without such a pill, given her aptitude and current age, her chances were slim.


    Lan Chang''an looked at her: "Do you want to reach Foundation Establishment?"


    "Yes." Guan Qiaozi bit her lip lightly; this was the dream of every Qi-Refining stage cultivator.


    It wasn''t something she dared to hope for, but it certainly was a fantasy she''d entertained.


    "I''ve received word from Alchemist Lin that there exists a certain ck-market channel through which one can purchase inferior Foundation Establishment Pills at a lower price, these pills can increase the sess rate by 15%." Lan Chang''an said.


    "Foundation Establishment Pill?" Guan Qiaozi''s breath tightened, her chest heaving, and her eyes sparkling.


    "This jade slip contains the method and insights for Foundation Establishment. Spend some years polishing your cultivation and digesting these insights." Lan Chang''an handed her the jade slip and instructed her ordingly.


    "It is unclear whether I will be able to acquire an inferior Foundation Establishment Pill. But you must prepare yourself to attempt Foundation Establishment before the age of sixty."


    "Yes, Senior Brother Lan." Guan Qiaozi took the jade slip, the rims of her eyes reddened slightly, weeping softly.


    She never thought Lan Chang''an would n to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill for her, a mere concubine of his.


    She knew Lan Chang''an''s disposition; without a high degree of confidence, he wouldn''t have brought this up.


    ¡­


    Time flew by, and three years passed.


    Lan Chang''an reached ny years old.


    In the secret room of Little Turtle Peak.


    The manake in Lan Chang''an''s dantian subtly expanded, and the power of his Evergreen Technique grew even more robust.


    "At the age of ny, reaching the third level of Foundation Establishment, I''m in thest stage of the early Foundation Establishment." Lan Chang''an remained calm.


    Climbing these minor stages only measured one''s cultivation progress, with each level increasing the total mana by two or three-tenths at most. Only when one broke through to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment would there be a substantial increase in strength.


    He murmured, "It seems Qiaozi is already fifty-eight. I wonder how her preparations for Foundation Establishment are going."

 Chapter 117: No Regrets at Foundation Establishment

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    After this small breakthrough, Lan Chang''an briefly consolidated his gains and took the opportunity to nurture his treasure talismans.


    On the spirit wood tabley thirteen treasure talismans.


    Two years ago, he attended a private transaction meeting for Foundation Establishment cultivators near Wuqi Mountain and was fortunate enough to purchase a piece of high-quality second-rank spirit wood, which he then used to make four treasure talismans.


    The earliest three treasure talismans had been nurtured for nearly twenty years. These three treasure talismans faintly surpassed the scope of second rank,parable to the lowest quality of talismanic treasures.


    A good talismanic treasure could reach thirty percent of the original magic treasure''s power.


    If ate-stage Core Formation magic treasure was used as the original model, its power could pose a threat to Fake-Dan cultivators.


    Creating talismanic treasures was costly, and it would reduce the power of the original magic treasure for a period, so very few Core Formation Immortal were willing to do it.


    For a Foundation Establishment cultivator like Lan Chang''an, spending around twenty years to nurture entry-level talismanic treasures was highly cost-effective."However, the material of these treasure talismans is only around the peak of the second rank. Limited by their potential, their enhancement speed will gradually decrease down the road."


    ¡­


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an left seclusion. The Profound Water Turtle followed him out, absorbing the residual aura.


    As Lan Chang''an''s cultivation improved, the growth rate of the Profound Water Turtle also increased slightly.


    Upon exiting the cave mansion, the Profound Water Turtle sprinted towards the lotus pond, looking around for Guan Qiaozhi but finding no sign of her.


    On the other side, Mu Bingyun controlled a puppet, performing a small cloud rain spell, and tended the herb field with the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    In the past three years, Guan Qiaozhi had diligently cultivated, asionally going into seclusion, to prepare for Foundation Establishment.


    Some of the mountain peak''s chores fell upon Mu Bingyun.


    Mu Bingyun was silent and reserved. Due to her talisman drawing skills her spiritual sense was refined, making it easier to control the puppet.


    Lan Chang''an sat in the pavilion by the lotus pond, enjoying the mountain scenery and the golden spiritual grains in the distance.


    "Uncle Lan."


    After sitting for a while, a young girl in a blue dress, herplexion as clear as snow, brought tea and spoke softly.


    Lan Chang''an nodded and took the spiritual tea.


    Previously, Mu Bingyun did not have such attentiveness.


    She was exceptionally talented, and skilled in talismans, with a master who was a second-rank talisman master, making her a favored daughter of her family. Coupled with her aloof personality, she wasn''t ustomed to serving others.


    This change was due to her current status as a freeloader, as well as being influenced by Guan Qiaozhi.


    Half a dayter, Guan Qiaozhi finished cultivating and came to see Lan Chang''an.


    "How are your preparations for Foundation Establishment?"


    Under Lan Chang''an''s gaze, Guan Qiaozhi appeared somewhat uneasy, lowering her head guiltily:


    "Senior Brother Lan, I''m still a bit away from the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining."


    "To attempt Foundation Establishment, reaching the peak of Qi-Refining is not always necessary. Mental state and age are important factors as well." Lan Chang''an could see that Guan Qiaozhicked confidence.


    "I''ll be more prepared if I wait another year."


    Guan Qiaozhi gathered her courage, clenching her fists lightly.


    "To attempt Foundation Establishment, one must have a firm Dao heart and advance resolutely." Lan Chang''an encouraged her.


    Another year would make Guan Qiaozhi fifty-nine, still within an eptable range. Since following Lan Chang''an, Guan Qiaozhi has cultivated steadily and maintained her health well. She hadn''t developed any lingering illnesses or suffered damage to her foundation.


    ¡­


    Two monthster.


    Shi Manrong returned from outside and sent a voice transmission talisman, inviting Lan Chang''an to her residence for a talk.


    After the transaction three years ago and their deeper interactions, the two had be more familiar with each other.


    "The restriction on this woman will trigger in no more than two years." Lan Chang''an noted and did not refuse, heading to the cave on Xiao Pan Peak.


    Today, when they met, Shi Manrong looked haggard, her makeup not as exquisite as usual, her hair slightly disheveled, giving her an air ofnguid beauty.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, please chat with me for a while." In the tea room, Shi Manrong''s voice was warm and gentle, forcing a smile as she poured wine.


    The two drank a few cups slowly, chatting leisurely.


    Shi Manrong nestled in his arms, her dress neat and tidy, without the temptation of the past.


    Lan Chang''an knew she was merely seeking a temporary emotional harbor to pour out her heart. Or perhaps she was showing weakness to elicit sympathy.


    "I have tried every method... Even a Fake-Dan cultivator would find it difficult to break this sea of consciousness-linked restriction." Shi Manrong''s eyes dimmed, speaking bitterly.


    Asking someone to break the restriction required opening up her sea of consciousness, essentially exposing all her secrets and unconditionally trusting the other person.


    "Fairy Shi, your cultivation has reached the mid Foundation Establishment Realm. With your superior-grade second-rank formation skills, studying sea of consciousness-type restrictions and finding simrities should offer a glimmer of hope." Lan Chang''anforted.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, do you have any insights?" Shi Manrong asked, her clear eyes turning slightly.


    "In the cultivation world, there are many methods to break restrictions, such as special magic weapons or talismans. Restrictions have mutual counteractions..." Lan Chang''an shared some insights.


    "Restrictions and formations share the same system. Fairy Shi, think about what means there are to break formations, and the same principles apply to restrictions."


    Without summoning the second life soul imprint from the Nine Seal Stele, Lan Chang''an couldn''t solve this restriction. However, he could provide some ideas and hints. At least he knew which methods were unfeasible and which had potential.


    Shi Manrong listened carefully, asionally showing a thoughtful expression.


    Lan Chang''an''s insights couldn''t directly help her but could spark some inspiration.


    "Lan darling, if it truly proves impossible, could you leave me a seed?"


    Suddenly, Shi Manrong giggled softly and said half-heartedly, "If this matteres to fruition, I am willing to bestow upon you all my lifetime''s inheritance and legacy."


    Lan Chang''an''s face twitched, and he waved his hand: "I have no interest in having children."


    "As long as Fairy Shi put out the word of seeking a child for heavy amounts of money, I believe that many cultivators would flock to your door."


    "Hmph! You are heartless." Shi Manrong red at him yfully, seemingly a bit annoyed.


    "I''ll leave now, lest your ex-husband shows up again." Lan Chang''an stood up.


    Before he left, Shi Manrong hugged him gently from behind.


    "Lan Lang, I''ve heard of a rare talisman that is highly effective against most restrictions. Do you know of it?"


    "This talisman does exist, but it''s only suitable for conventional restrictions, not for sea of consciousness-linked restrictions. Unless it''s a custom-made talisman specifically designed for breaking soul-rted restrictions, at least a third-rank one will be necessary for safety." Lan Chang''an exined.


    Shi Manrong made a soft sound of understanding, her expression somewhat crestfallen. She let go of him and prepared to escort Lan Chang''an out of the cave mansion.


    ¡­


    "Manrong, I have something important to discuss with you!"


    Outside Xiao Pan Peak, a man''s anxious voice called out.


    "The Chen Family is in crisis and needs your assistance..."


    "Ignore him." Shi Manrong''s clear eyes turned cold.


    "Shi Manrong! How can you be so ungrateful as to ignore your family who nurtured and supported you?" Chen Sheng shouted for a long time outside.


    Lan Chang''an was not in a good position to go out directly.


    Bored, he spent over an hour indulging in tender moments with Fairy Shi to pass the time away.


    Outside, Chen Sheng''s throat was nearly hoarse from shouting. Seeing no response from Shi Manrong, he went to Little Turtle Peak several li away to shout.


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t at Little Turtle Peak, so naturally there was no response here either.


    "Lan Chang''an! Did you go to visit Manrong''s residence? To think Chen trusted you so much." Chen Sheng roared, his face filled with suspicion.


    Lan Chang''an remained unfazed; this was nothing new.


    Chen Sheng possessed a deeply suspicious nature. Every male Foundation Establishment peak master in Wuqi Mountain, including some male Qi-Refining cultivators, had been under his scrutiny.


    Lan Chang''an was no exception, having been included in the list of suspects several years ago.


    At this time, it was gettingte.


    "Leave through the back door."


    Shi Manrong wiped the fragrant sweat from her forehead and said to Lan Chang''an.


    "Alright."


    Lan Chang''an knew the ws and secret doors of Xiao Pan Peak''s protective formation.


    He left through a hidden back door in the rear mountain. Then, he flew towards Little Turtle Peak from another direction.


    ¡­


    "Lan Chang''an! Come out¡ª"


    Chen Sheng was halfway through his shout when someone patted him on the shoulder.


    "Brother Chen, were you looking for me?" came the even voice of another man.


    Chen Sheng stumbled, and cold sweat beaded on his forehead. Despite being a Foundation Establishment cultivator, he had been silently approached from behind without his knowledge.


    "Brother Lan."


    "This is a misunderstanding. I thought you were at Manrong''s residence." Seeing the white-clothed man in front of him, Chen Sheng steadied himself, his face twisting into a smile as all traces of his earlier arrogance vanished.


    The reason Lan Chang''an could approach undetected was that his cultivation had deteriorated, his mana flow uneven and impure, and he had lost his vignce.


    "Brother Chen, I observe that your steps are weak, and your yang essence is depleted. Have you been..." Lan Chang''an''s words trailed off, reced by a faint smile.


    "Nothing of the sort! Brother Lan, please don''t joke."


    Chen Sheng reacted strongly, hurriedly interrupting Lan Chang''an mid-sentence, then taking a nce at Xiao Pan Peak.


    "Brother Lan, I won''t disturb you. I''ll head back first..." With evasive words, Chen Sheng left dejectedly.


    Lan Chang''an was not surprised. This man was notoriously shameless, bullying the weak and fearing the strong.


    ¡­


    Half a yearter, unusual spiritual energy fluctuations emanated from the sky above Little Turtle Peak.


    Ten dayster, the outline of a spiritual energy vortex appeared, trembling slightly.


    "Someone is attempting Foundation Establishment?"


    The other two main peaks and the dependent Qi-Refining cultivators looked towards Little Turtle Peak.


    Attempting Foundation Establishment on a second-rank spiritual vein in the Liang Kingdom was not umon.


    Ordinary cultivators couldn''t afford Foundation Establishment Pills but could buy cheaper "Meridian Protecting Pills" to make ast-ditch effort before they got too old.


    Meridian Protecting Pills only protected the dantian and meridians and reduced the risk of death during the breakthrough; they did not increase the sess rate. Only a few lucky ones could seed.


    Whoosh!


    The outline of the spiritual energy vortex in the sky suddenly copsed.


    "Failed."


    From the other two main peaks, Lin Ye and Shi Manrong secretly kept watch as well.


    They knew the one attempting Foundation Establishment was Guan Qiaozhi. Whether she used a Meridian Protecting Pill or a Foundation Establishment Pill was uncertain. For a concubine, obtaining a Meridian Protecting Pill was already fortunate.


    ¡­


    In the secret room of the cave mansion.


    "Senior Brother Lan, I''m sorry! It''s my fault for wasting the Foundation Establishment Pill." Guan Qiaozhi''s face was pale, showing disappointment and guilt.


    "Don''t me yourself. With your qualifications, given that you took an inferior Foundation Establishment Pill at your age, it is quite normal to fail." Lan Chang''an ced his palm on Guan Qiaozhi''s back.


    She had suffered a bacsh from the failed attempt, but he had promptly protected her and helped treat her.


    Lan Chang''an cast the Evergreen secret spell, consuming a tiny amount of lifespan to conduct a certain test.


    "It''s effective! The bacsh''s injuries were promptly healed, avoiding damage to the foundation and severe loss of vitality." Lan Chang''an thought.


    In other words, with the aid of the Evergreen secret spell, even if a Foundation Establishment attempt failed, there would be minimal impact on the cultivator. After a few months of rest, one could continue their attempts to breakthrough as before.


    Could this apply to Core Formation as well?


    "Senior Brother Lan, having reached this stage, I have no regrets. If I had stayed in Huanglong Immortal City, I wouldn''t have even had this chance, I might not have been able to advance to thete stage of Qi-Refining, to begin with." Tears glistened in Guan Qiaozhi''s eyes.


    "Take this bottle of secret medicine and rest well."


    Lan Chang''an didn''t say much, handing her a medicine bottle.


    He had seen a year ago that Guan Qiaozhi''s faith in achieving Foundation Establishment wasn''t strong enough.


    The inferior Foundation Establishment Pill had weaker effects indeed. Moreover, Guan Qiaozhi had used breakthrough pills to advance to the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    "Brother Lan, I''ve heard that failing to reach Foundation Establishment can cause severe vitality loss, leading to rapid aging..." Guan Qiaozhi suddenly began to weep sorrowfully, not daring to face Lan Chang''an.


    "The bacsh from Foundation Establishment failure varies from person to person, ranging from mild to severe." Lan Chang''anforted.


    "Your symptoms are rtively light. You didn''t attempt Foundation Establishment at too old of an age. With my protection and the secret medicine, it won''t cause rapid aging."


    "Is that true?"


    Guan Qiaozhi took out a mirror and examined herself briefly, seeing that her countenance remained unchanged, she broke into a smile through her tears.

 Chapter 118: Meeting Again After Many Years

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Guan Qiaozhi''s failure in her Foundation Establishment didn''t cause much of a stir in Wuqi Mountain.


    Before long, no one spoke of it again. In the vast world of cultivation, failing to advance to a higher realm was the norm. Behind every sess, there were countless epitaphs of the failed.


    Due to Lan Chang''an''s protection, Guan Qiaozhi didn''t suffer severe damage to her vitality, nor did her appearance age rapidly.


    Guan Qiaozhi had never had high expectations in the first ce, so she gradually adjusted her mindset.


    Her petite and lively figure busied itself in every corner of Little Turtle Peak, returning to her usual routine.


    Over the next period, Guan Qiaozhi underwent some subtle changes. The most noticeable one was that her attitude towards Mu Bingyun changed, no longer being superficially warm while secretly wary.


    Guan Qiaozhi began to genuinely ept the Mu Family girl who was much younger, prettier, and more talented than herself.


    After her Foundation Establishment failure, she truly understood Mu Bingyun''s advantages.Mu Bingyun possessed a mid-grade spiritual root and hade to Little Turtle Peak to cultivate and recuperate at the age of twenty-eight. At that time, she was already at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    After seven or eight years of nurturing, Mu Bingyun''s cultivation speed returned to what it was before her injury.


    Each time Lan Chang''an treated her, it appeared as though he was using Evergreen mana to nurture her dantian,plemented by the medicinal soups. The true effect, however, came from the momentary use of the Evergreen secret spell.


    Over the entire cycle, it was akin to the price paid back when he saved Mu Xiuyun. Due to the lengthy nurturing process, even if there were amazing effects, they wouldn''t be conspicuous.


    Currently, the nurturing process is two-thirdsplete. Once it was finished, Lan Chang''an, depleted of old sentiments, would end his care for Mu Bingyun, resolving thest bit of regret. At that point, she would receive the same treatment as Lin Lu or Mu Ershun, like an ordinary junior nephew.


    ...


    "Bingyun, if I grow old in the future, you must take good care of Brother Lan." By the lotus pond, Guan Qiaozhi held Mu Bingyun''s hand, whispering softly.


    Mu Bingyun lowered her head, her fair face turning red, not knowing how to respond.


    Having stayed on Little Turtle Peak for so many years, she had noticed Uncle Lan''s extraordinariness, knowing that following him in cultivation would offer greater opportunities.


    In fact, Mu Bingyun missed Feiyue Lake and her master. She often wrote letters home, describing her current situation.


    However, her master replied two years ago, advising her not to return if possible.


    If she must return, she had to either be at the Foundation Establishment Realm or be a second-rank talisman master.


    After whispering, Guan Qiaozhi yed and frolicked with the Profound Water Turtle, her eyes filled with affection.


    After her Foundation Establishment failure, Guan Qiaozhi spent more time each day with the Profound Water Turtle. Nowadays, the Profound Water Turtle was four feet wide and could carry her swiftly through the pond.


    ...


    Six monthster.


    Lan Chang''an received an unexpected letter from Chen Fuhai of the Qingzhu Sect.


    Chen Fuhai mentioned in the letter that he woulde to Huanglong Immortal City in a few months to bring Lan Chang''an two pieces of second-rank top-quality spiritual bamboo.


    This was undoubtedly good news.


    With two more pieces of second-rank top-quality spiritual bamboo, Lan Chang''an''s needs at this level would be basically met.


    In the early Foundation Establishment stage, the maximum number of treasure talismans he could nurture simultaneously was about thirty. He still had to leave some space for third-rank spirit wood treasure talismans.


    "A few monthster, just in time for therge auction in Huanglong Immortal City."


    Lan Chang''an noted to himself to make a trip then.


    If this transaction went smoothly, he might be able to purchase third-rank spiritual bamboo from Qingzhu Sect in the future.


    ...


    The day after Lan Chang''an received the letter.


    Shi Manrong hurried back to Wuqi Mountain from outside, her expression calm, showing no sign of emotion.


    That night, she visited Lan Chang''an, saying she had something important to discuss.


    How could Lan Chang''an not see that the restriction in Shi Manrong''s sea of consciousness would copse within a few months at most?


    In the study, Lan Chang''an set up a restriction.


    "I''m going to break the restriction with all my might!" Shi Manrong said decisively.


    "How confident are you?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "Thirty percent."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an showed a look of surprise.


    Shi Manrong''s confidence in breaking the restriction was higher than he had expected, indicating she had found another breakthrough.


    "How do you n to break the restriction?"


    "My method of breaking the restriction, I want Fellow Daoist Lan to oversee it."


    Shi Manrong said seriously, handing over a jade slip.


    After reading the information in the jade slip, Lan Chang''an was slightly moved, his face showing contemtion.


    Shi Manrong''s method of breaking the restrictionbined three approaches.


    First, breaking the restriction with a formation. She had improved a soul path formation, using it to unleash a soul power-based restriction-breaking technique. The restriction techniques and ideas provided by Lan Chang''an yed a significant role in thepletion of this improved formation.


    Second, breaking the restriction with a special magical weapon. She was fortunate enough to acquire a special magic weapon that had a suppressing and imprisoning effect on spiritual sense power. This special magic weapon would also be integrated into the formation as a weapon to break the restriction.


    Third, several precious pills that enhanced and strengthened the sea of consciousness, would be used to counter the Fake-Dan restriction.


    "Worthy of being a genius in formations, she''s very adaptable." Lan Chang''an secretly praised.


    A thirty percent chance was not an exaggeration.


    For an ordinary Fake-Dan cultivator, when they were at the same cultivation level as Fairy Shi, if they were not proficient in formations and restrictions, it would be hard to do better than Shi Manrong.


    Subsequently, Lan Chang''an inquired about the details of breaking the restriction, and provided a few suggestions.


    "Fairy Shi, my methods are limited. This ''Clear Mind Stabilizing Talisman'' can help you maintain focus and rity under extreme circumstances."


    Lan Chang''an took out a talisman and handed it to Shi Manrong.


    The Clear Mind Stabilizing Talisman was a rare second-rank talisman that required unique techniques and materials for its crafting


    "Thank you, Fellow Daoist Lan."


    Shi Manrong was moved, knowing this talisman might be useful at a critical moment.


    She then smiled gracefully: "How many spirit stones does Fellow Daoist Lan intend to sell this talisman for?"


    "This is not a transaction." Lan Chang''an was silent for a few moments before speaking.


    "Then it''s a personal favor."


    Shi Manrong chuckled lightly, her tone rxed.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t say much more and escorted Shi Manrong out of the cave mansion.


    ...


    Seven dayster.


    While Lan Chang''an was in seclusion in his cave mansion, he suddenly sensed a subtle spiritual sense fluctuationing from Xiao Pan Peak.


    The subtle spiritual sense fluctuationsted only a few breaths before abruptly stopping.


    "What happened?"


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense merged with the second life of the Nine Seal Stele, his powerful spiritual sense prating the formation and cave on Xiao Pan Peak, seeing the situation clearly.


    In the secret chamber of Xiao Pan Peak''s cave.


    Shi Manrongy quietly sprawled on the ground, her face devoid of color, legs curled tightly beneath her body, unmoving. On her forehead was a talisman with charred edges, the very Clear Mind Stabilizing Talisman that Lan Chang''an had given her.


    Lan Chang''an silently left Little Turtle Peak and headed to Xiao Pan Peak, entering through the hidden entrance of the formation.


    Reaching the secret chamber, he used a second-rank restriction-breaking talisman to easily break the restriction and enter.


    Lan Chang''an lifted Shi Manrong, discovering that she still possessed warmth in her body and faint breathing.


    He fed her two soul-nourishing pills.


    Momentster, Shi Manrong slowly woke up, finding herself in the arms of a white-clothed man.


    "Who are you?"


    Shi Manrong broke free from Lan Chang''an, her clear eyes showing vignce.


    "Hmm? You don''t recognize me?"


    Lan Chang''an was stunned, realizing something.


    The sea of consciousness is the source of a cultivator''s awareness and memory. Although Shi Manrong broke the restriction in her sea of consciousness, the process was imperfect, leaving aftereffects.


    Sessfully breaking the Fake-Dan restriction and keeping her life was already a fortune. Losing some memory, Lan Chang''an could understand.


    "I am Lan Chang''an, do you not remember?"


    Shi Manrong frowned slightly and shook her head:


    "I don''t remember, but it sounds a bit familiar."


    "Chen Sheng, do you know him?"


    "That scoundrel!"


    Shi Manrong''s face turned cold, and her teeth clenched.


    Lan Chang''an understood that Fairy Shi was partially amnesiac, likely losing some of the more recent memories.


    He then asked about Alchemist Lin Ye, and Shi Manrong remembered. As for Guan Qiaozhi, her impression was very vague.


    Fortunately, Fairy Shi did not have a drastic change in personality, remaining generally graceful and serene.


    After a brief exchange, Shi Manrong was half-believing of his words.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, this is my cave. You seem to have intruded without permission."


    Shi Manrong''s tone was cold, issuing an eviction order.


    "Alright, I''ll leave now." Lan Chang''an responded, unperturbed by her words, for he was well-read and experienced enough to take them lightly.


    "Fairy Shi, perhaps you can try recalling your memories yourself or speaking with Fellow Daoist Lin Ye."


    Leaving a suggestion, he exited Shi Manrong''s cave.


    ...


    In the world of cultivation, nothing is impossible.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t dwell on Shi Manrong''s partial amnesia.


    Half a monthter, Shi Manrong visited him, treating him like a new neighbor.


    The amnesiac Fairy Shi, elegant and pure, was no longer as gentle and alluring as before.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I have confirmed that I did lose a portion of my memory. What was our rtionship like before?" Shi Manrong asked with a gentle voice and smile.


    "Our rtionship? It was roughly the same as Fellow Daoist Lin Ye."


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment but chose not to mention any deeper connections, lest he upset or offend the other. Theoretically speaking, they were now meeting anew, with no previous bond.


    "Oh, I see."


    Shi Manrong, dignified and elegant, smiled softly. After engaging in idle conversation with Lan Chang''an for a short while, she rose to take her leave.


    "Brother Lan, Sister Shi seems like a different person. She didn''t even greet me this time." Guan Qiaozhi muttered.


    Lan Chang''an smiled, exining Shi Manrong''s partial amnesia to Guan Qiaozhi.


    ...


    Two monthster, Lan Chang''an piloted his flying boat to Huanglong Immortal City.


    This time, he brought Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun along to give them some time off and let them do some shopping while he ran his own errands.


    Lan Chang''an went to the Qingzhu Sect''s station in the inner city.


    "Senior, please wait."


    A Foundation Establishment cultivator''s visit was not taken lightly, and the Qingzhu Sect''s cultivators immediately went to report.


    "Haha! It''s been many years, Fellow Daoist Lan hasn''t changed a bit."


    Soon, a portly middle-aged man in a cloak walked over from the station. With each step spanning five or six zhang, he was calm and steady as a mountain.


    "Late Foundation Establishment?" Lan Chang''an''s expression became serious, stepping forward to greet him.


    Thete Foundation Establishment stage was a hurdle that stopped most Foundation Establishment cultivators. However, it had been more than twenty years since hest saw Chen Fuhai, so such progress wasn''t surprising.


    "Back then, hearing the inspiring story of an ancient man achieving Foundation Establishment, I thought of Fellow Daoist Lan. Who could have expected that you truly achieved it?" Chen Fuhai remained amiable, chatting as they walked, weing Lan Chang''an to a pavilion in the station.


    The Qingzhu Sect cultivators showed surprised expressions.


    Chen Fuhai, at thete Foundation Establishment stage, held a certain status in the sect, yet he had personallye out to greet a loose early Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Inside the pavilion, Chen Fuhai and Lan Chang''an sat facing each other over tea, conversing idly on various topics.


    Naturally, they mentioned the experiences in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Lan Chang''an recalled Chen Fuhai''s wife, Xiao Yingxue, who had died to the mysterious and sinister Heavenly Moon Wolf.


    Chen Fuhai showed a look of sorrow, saying he had been seeking revenge on that Heavenly Moon Wolf in recent years but had lost its trail.


    "Oh, right, here are the items I brought for Fellow Daoist Lan."


    Chen Fuhai took out a green and a purple piece of top superior grade second-rank spiritual bamboo from his storage pouch.


    ...

 Chapter 119: The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Lan Chang''an took the two top superior-grade second-rank spiritual bamboos and examined them briefly before his heart filled with joy.


    The products of the Qingzhu Sect were indeed extraordinary.


    The two pieces of spiritual bamboo brought by Chen Fuhai were more spiritually rich than those Lan Chang''an had previously purchased.


    Eh?


    While observing the spiritual bamboo, Lan Chang''an felt a vague, indescribable sense of being spied upon, causing a flutter in his heart.


    This feeling had appeared once before in this life. Thest time was in the ck Fog Mountain Range, when he killed the White Jade Python. Shortly after that, he encountered the mysterious Heavenly Moon Wolf.


    "The quality is excellent. I will buy it at the auction price, Fellow Daoist Chen, what do you think?"


    Lan Chang''an remained calm and looked at Chen Fuhai. At this moment, that vague feeling of being spied upon had already vanished."No need, Fellow Daoist Lan can just pay the normal market price." Chen Fuhai said with a smile.


    Lan Chang''an spent 1,900 spirit stones to buy the two top-quality second-rank spiritual bamboos.


    In the future, his focus would be on third-rank spiritual bamboo, and there would no longer be a need to seek out top superior-grade second-rank ones deliberately.


    After the transaction, their rtionship took a step forward, and they talked about more topics. Due to the earlier feeling of being spied upon, Lan Chang''an became wary of Chen Fuhai.


    If Chen Fuhai had used his spiritual sense to probe, it would have been impolite at most, and Lan Chang''an would have definitely detected it. But Chen Fuhai hadn''t used his spiritual sense, making that obscure feeling even more strange.


    Either there was something wrong with Chen Fuhai, or a cultivator above the Fake-Dan had secretly paid attention to Lan Chang''an.


    Ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator could pose a threat to Lan Chang''an, he dared not enter the Nine Seal Stele to merge with the second life in front of Chen Fuhai to investigate the situation.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you look so youthful and healthy. What kind of cultivation technique do you practice?" In casual conversation, Chen Fuhai seemed envious and curious.


    Lan Chang''an became more vignt. There were many too many ways to remain youthful and healthy, and Chen Fuhai was the first to inquire about his cultivation technique because of this.


    "It''s just an average wood-based cultivation method with moderate power, good for health and longevity. Besides, I usually cultivate my health and take elixirs for maintaining youth." Lan Chang''an''s response was wless.


    A life-nurturing cultivation method,bined with elixirs for maintaining youth, and a life of peace for nearly a hundred years, made his exnation sound reasonable.


    Realizing that there was something wrong with Chen Fuhai, Lan Chang''an dismissed the idea of befriending ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "I have some shopping to do in Huanglong Immortal City, so I won''t disturb you further." Lan Chang''an found an excuse to bid farewell and departed.


    "This guy is quite cautious."


    Chen Fuhai watched Lan Chang''an leave, his eyes faintly shing with a ghostly green light.


    "If it involves the legendary grand spirit Yan Doni, I must be more cautious."


    ...


    After leaving the Qingzhu Sect''s station, Lan Chang''an found a tea house two or three li away and sat down.


    This distance was far beyond the reach of Chen Fuhai''s spiritual sense.


    He closed his eyes and entered the Nine Seal Stele with his mind.


    With the soul imprint of his second life, his spiritual sense extended to the Qingzhu Sect''s station to check on Chen Fuhai''s situation.


    This enhancement of his spiritual sense required concentrated awareness and merging with the Nine Seal Stele, consuming the illumination energy of his first or second life.


    It was limited to sensory enhancement and could not be used inbat. Unless he lets the second life descend into his body, consuming the once-in-ten-year opportunity.


    At a sect''s station, at most, there would be a Fake-Dan Immortal in charge. His enhanced spiritual sense was stronger than that of an ordinary early-stage Core Formation cultivator, and his use of spiritual sense was more sophisticated. He prepared himself to withdraw at any moment.


    In a pavilion, Lan Chang''an found Chen Fuhai.


    He carefully probed with his spiritual sense, approaching the other party''s sea of consciousness. Chen Fuhai''s senses did not detect Lan Chang''an''s enhanced Immortal-level spiritual sense.


    "This is?"


    Lan Chang''an observed the other party''s sea of consciousness and was startled.


    He saw a green, crystalline, and transparent bug floating on the surface of Chen Fuhai''s sea of consciousness.


    The bug''s body was slowly sinking into the sea of consciousness, about to disappear.


    "Who?"


    The transparent insect opened an eye full of dense pupils, glowing with a ghostly light, making one''s scalp tingle.


    Before the insect could probe, Lan Chang''an decisively withdrew his spiritual sense. The insect''s soul fluctuation was not stronger than Lan Chang''an''s enhanced spiritual sense.


    He left the tea house and went to a nearby inn near the Jin Yun Valley station, temporarily staying there.


    "That bug, could it be the legendary Heaven and Earth magical insect ''The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu''?"


    In the guest room, Lan Chang''an pondered for a long time and found a possible match in his previous life''s vast memories.


    The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu was a soul-path Heaven and Earth magical insect, mysterious and unpredictable, possessing at least a heavenly-grade bloodline.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t know much about this insect, having only seen some rumors in ancient books. It was said that The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu could reside in and control multiple living targets. This residence did not affect the target''s independence, including memory, wisdom, and cultivation.


    This gu insect itself was not particrly adept atbat, relying primarily on the host target that it infested. The stronger and more potential the host had, the better. The two formed a symbiotic rtionship.


    "When I probed with my spiritual sense, that soul gu was about to sink into the depths of the sea of consciousness. If I hadn''t encountered it at just the right moment, even an ordinary Core Formation Immortal wouldn''t be able to notice Chen Fuhai''s abnormality." Lan Chang''an thought.


    Now it seemed that the Heavenly Moon Wolf back then was also a target of the "The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu." Perhaps it had just recently infested, and thus not fully integrated, allowing him to sense something amiss. Years ago, Chen Fuhai "narrowly escaped death," but he never returned to Huanglong Immortal City, perhaps to avoid exposing this weakness.


    "Should I expose Chen Fuhai?"


    "No, this insect is mysterious and unpredictable, capable of inhabiting multiple targets at the same time. I can''t afford to offend it." Lan Chang''an quickly shook his head.


    Even if exposed, it would not be convincing. ording to legends, a matured The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu could reside in and control over a hundred living beings.


    The one Lan Chang''an encountered might not be the main gu and is far from its mature form. Otherwise, the infested targets wouldn''t be at the Foundation Establishment level.


    The original Heavenly Moon Wolf came from the ck Fog Mountain Range, which spanned nearly half of Great Qing. The infested targets of "The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu" might not be limited to the Liang Kingdom and could also be in surrounding cultivation countries.


    Lan Chang''an concluded:


    Be wary of Chen Fuhai and pretend to be unaware.


    This kind of strange insect coexisted with its host and was not a world-destroying true spirit, so it would not bring great disasters to the cultivation world.


    ...


    A few dayster, arge auction was held in Huanglong.


    Lan Chang''an went to see if he could find something he needed. Besides spiritual bamboo, Lan Chang''an also needed second-rank Life Extension Pills. Additionally, the Earth Burrowing Rat had been stuck at the peak of the second-rank early stage for over ten years, so he hoped to find pills and treasures to aid its breakthrough.


    Some years ago, Lan Chang''an hadmunicated with the Zhou Family Foundation Establishment cultivators, intending to purchase second-rank mid-grade Earth Spirit Pills or corresponding breakthrough resources.


    The Zhou Family politely declined his request, saying that resources for helping demonic beasts advance to the mid second-rank were scarce even for themselves.


    This auction did not feature any such breakthrough items either. However, there was another item that would be helpful to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    "ck Blood Lotus Seed, it can enhance blood-path cultivation methods. These seeds are not suitable for most human cultivators, but some certain bloodline-type demonic beasts can slightly enhance their bloodline by consuming it, limited to superior-grade and below bloodlines."


    "Starting price, 1,200 spirit stones."


    "1,300... 1,500..."


    The bidders included Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Beast Taming Zhou Family. The ck Blood Lotus Seed was not a popr auction item due to its limitations and small enhancement effect.


    "2,300."


    In the end, Lan Chang''an bid sessfully for the item.


    The Foundation Establishment cultivatorpeting with him was Zhou Qingxuan from the Zhou Family. However, Lan Chang''an had hidden his identity, so Zhou Qingxuan didn''t recognize him, only giving him a cold, displeased nce.


    Over the years, this woman still looked like a young girl, perhaps having taken the Youth Retaining Pill.


    Lan Chang''an had heard that decades ago, two or three of the seven great cultivation families wanted to marry Zhou Qingxuan to form an alliance. The Zhou Family naturally refused, unwilling to let a Foundation Establishment spirit beast tamer genius marry outside.


    Aside from Zhou Qingxuan, Lan Chang''an also recognized other familiar faces at the auction, such as Lin Lu and Fairy Shi.


    ...


    After the auction, Lan Chang''an returned to the inn and reverted back to his original appearance. He then took out the ck Blood Lotus Seed he had won.


    "Squeak squeak!"


    The Earth Burrowing Rat eagerly emerged from the spirit pet pouch, wagging its tail and showing a longing expression.


    Lan Chang''an flicked the lotus seed, and the Earth Burrowing Rat urately leaped up and swallowed it in one bite.


    After consuming the ck Blood Lotus Seed.


    Lan Chang''an observed for a while but didn''t notice any obvious changes. Only the rat''s blood energy slightly increased.


    After buying the two spiritual bamboos and the ck Blood Lotus Seed, Lan Chang''an''s spirit stone reserves were running low. He had also spent quite a lot on puppetry. Several second-rank puppets he had refined were not easy to liquidate for now.


    Lan Chang''an left the inn, intending to sell some second-rank low-grade talismans.


    ...


    "Uncle Lan!"


    A white-faced middle-aged Foundation Establishment cultivator flew towards the Jin Yun Valley station, delighted to see Lan Chang''an.


    "Little Lu." Lan Chang''an smiled. He had seen Lin Lu at the auction but didn''t greet him due to his hidden identity.


    Lin Lu enthusiastically invited him to the Jin Yun Valley station.


    In an elegant room, they chatted over tea.


    "In three or four years, the ''Green Underworld Mysterious Realm'' will open. Uncle Zhao and Uncle Zhang are preparing to participate. My cultivation is shallow, so I have no qualifications to join." Lin Lu mentioned the situations of Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan.


    The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm was something Lan Chang''an had been silently paying attention to as well.


    The longevity items he needed, opportunities for Core Formation, and third-rank spiritual bamboo had all appeared in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    Most of the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm''s slots were controlled by sects. Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan also obtained slots throughpetition, paying a considerable price.


    The sect''s top talents, such as those with earth spiritual roots, were generally not rmended to take risks unless they insisted on going in. Those with good backgrounds and decent talent also didn''t need to take risks either.


    "Uncle Lan, have you visited the Mu Family in recent years?" Lin Lu had recently visited Feiyue Lake, finding it difficult to describe the situation.


    "No, but I''ve heard a bit." Lan Chang''an hadn''t been to Feiyue Lake for about ten years.


    In recent years, the Mu Family had declinedpared to the time they had two Foundation Establishment cultivators. The descendants of Li Erqing had be a powerful new branch, causing overt or covert conflicts with the old Mu Family branch.


    The old Mu Family branch included descendants of Mu Renlong and Mu Maode, such as Mu Chengji, Mu Xiuyun, and Mu Yunfei.


    The conflicts were mainly about family resources and power. Li Erqing could remain aloof, but his descendants, including the female cultivators they married, inevitably fought for it.


    With poor rtions between the two branches, internal strife would naturally arise, hampering the overall development of the family. Huang Tankong''s schemes before his death were beginning to show.


    "I heard that a few of Uncle Li''s granddaughters-inw changed their children''s surname to ''Li'' to please him, the Foundation Establishment ancestor."


    "Changed to Li?"


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly but did notment. He hadpletely severed ties with the Mu Family; other people''s domestic affairs were none of his business.


    Thest letter he received from Li Erqing was a year ago. His cultivation had reached the second level of Foundation Establishment only a few years ago, after more than twenty years of cultivation.


    "It''s just an isted case," Lin Lu added, "Uncle Li initially opposed it too. but perhapster considered preserving some bloodline connection to the Li family, so he permitted these few exceptions."


    After chatting for an hour or two, Lan Chang''an left the Jin Yun Valley station. He had no intention of meddling in the Mu Family''s affairs. From Li Erqing''s perspective, his actions weren''t particrly egregious.


    That day, he went to Huanglong Immortal City to sell some second-rank talismans, earning some spirit stones which he used to purchase supplies.


    A few dayster, Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun arrived at the rendezvous point, and the three boarded a flying boat to depart Huanglong Immortal City.

 Chapter 120: Transaction and Investment

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Two monthster.


    Wuqi Mountain, Little Turtle Peak.


    Inside the cave mansion, a powerful aura of demonic energy erupted, almost breaking through the restrictions.


    Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun were both startled, their bodies instinctively reacting with fear, causing them to tremble slightly.


    In the secret room, a sleek, orange-purple demon rat,parable in size to a tiger or leopard, was surrounded by a dark yellow demonic wind strong enough to shred metal.


    The emanating demonic energy fluctuations reached the mid-second rank.


    ¡°Not bad, the ck Blood Lotus Seed seems to have some effect,¡± Lan Chang''an remarked with a smile.


    In truth, the Earth Burrowing Rat had been stuck at the early second rank for many years, needing only a trigger to break through.Years ago, the Earth Burrowing Rat''s bloodline had slightly mutated, moving from the upper middle grade to the superior grade.


    At the second-rank spiritual vein of Little Turtle Peak, the Earth Burrowing Rat enjoyed daily meals of spirit rice and asional treats of spirit herb supplements. As the primary worker, there was nock of exercise.


    Given its bloodline qualifications, its advancement was only a matter of time.


    The ck Blood Lotus Seed was akin to adding flowers to brocade; it stabilized the superior-grade bloodline, lifting the Earth Burrowing Rat out of the bottom-tier doldrums.


    Ten dayster, Lan Chang''an conducted a simple test of the Earth Burrowing Rat''s abilities.


    Its abilities hadn''t changed much; its foundation as an earth-type demon ratbined with its mutated agility made it even stronger in closebat.


    Without using talismans or other trump cards, Lan Chang''an could only fight the rat to a draw in his regr state.


    After emerging from seclusion, the Earth Burrowing Rat nced at the Profound Water Turtle by the pool, baring its teeth slightly.


    Ssh! Plop!


    The Profound Water Turtle was so frightened that it flipped its shell and hid in the lotus pond, not daring to show its head.


    ¡°Don¡¯t scare the little precious turtle,¡± Guan Qiaozhi scolded, standing by the pool and ring at the Earth Burrowing Rat while soothing the aggrieved Profound Water Turtle, which poked its head out reluctantly.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat disdainfully burrowed into a nearby cave.


    ¡°A superior-grade bloodline,¡± Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but shake his head at the sight.


    No wonder the Profound Water Turtle wasn¡¯t popr; he had bought the weak turtle egg for a low price years ago.


    The turtle was still far from reaching the second rank, even with Lan Chang''an significantly elerating its growth. Luckily, the Profound Water Turtle had a long lifespan and could keep Lan Chang''anpany through those lengthy years ahead.


    As far as battle pets went, the Earth Burrowing Rat was sufficient.


    ...


    In the blink of an eye, nearly a year had passed.


    Lan Chang''an, now ny-four years old, was nearing the age of a hundred.


    Within the secret room, Lan Chang''anpleted his daily cultivation routine and released Evergreen mana from both palms to nurture twenty-two treasure talismans on the spirit wood table before him. The earliest of these talismans had been nurtured for over twenty years, while the most recent ones were within the past year.


    A year ago, he had bought two pieces of spirit bamboo of good quality from Chen Fuhai, which yielded nine treasure talismans.


    Right at that moment... a cloud-like light carried a white-robed female cultivator with an elegant and cold demeanor to Wuqi Mountain.


    Soon, the open and t terrain of Little Turtle Peak came into view. Zhao Siyao''s expressive eyes scanned thendscape below her.


    ¡°What a tranquil and serene cultivation site.¡±


    From the mountainside to the peak of Little Turtle Peak, golden spirit valleys rolled like waves in the autumn wind. At the peak, lush spiritual woods, exotic flowers, and nts created a colorful and vibrant scene. In front of the cave mansion, a ten mu lotus pond with blooming lotuses looked like pure and beautiful fairies bathing in theke.


    Ssh!


    A four-foot-wide dark green spiritual turtle emerged from the water, carrying a lotus seedpod in its mouth, which it delivered to the hands of a graceful woman dressed in a sleeveless robe standing by the pond. The woman felt a wave of spiritual energy from above the Little Turtle Peak.


    The white-robed female cultivator descended slowly.


    ¡°Fairy Zhao!¡± Guan Qiaozhi quickly stood up to greet her.


    Zhao Siyaonded and, under Guan Qiaozhi''s guidance, took a seat in the pavilion by the lotus pond.


    Another young girl in a green dress served spiritual tea and pastries.


    ¡°You are?¡± Zhao Siyao found the girl somewhat familiar.


    ¡°Junior Mu Bingyun,¡± the girl replied.


    Guan Qiaozhi softly introduced Mu Bingyun¡¯s background to Zhao Siyao.


    Zhao Siyao pursed her lips thoughtfully.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao,¡± Lan Chang''an emerged from the cave mansion.


    Zhao Siyao stood up, and they exchanged greetings before entering the cave mansion. Soon, Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun served an array of exquisite spiritual dishes, their aroma filling the air.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, you are truly blessed,¡± Zhao Siyao praised, feeling a bit envious of the leisurely life.


    Lan Chang''an, once a sect reject, had reached the Foundation Establishment Realm and be a second-rank talisman master. Now, he enjoyed a second-rank spiritual vein, raising turtles and nting herbs, eating spiritual rice he grew himself.


    Few cultivators within or outside the sect could lead such a life, let alone wandering cultivators, who often dreamed of attaining it.


    ¡°There is no need for Fellow Daoist Zhao to envy me; appearances can be deceiving. I spend my days cultivating, drawing talismans, refining puppets, and managing this vast mountain. It¡¯s rather monotonous,¡± Lan Chang''an said humbly.


    ...


    After the feast, Zhao Siyao mentioned the purpose of her visit.


    ¡°The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm will open in two years, and I was fortunate enough to secure a spot. I came here to buy some mid-second-rank talismans from you,¡± Zhao Siyao said, her eyes filled with hope.


    Over a decade ago, she had inquired about this with Lan Chang''an. At that time, Lan Chang''an had said he couldn''t make superior-grade talismans but might be able to in ten years, and asked her to visit Wuqi Mountain then. Given her understanding of Lan Chang''an, there was a good chance he had made progress.


    ¡°Knowing you woulde, I¡¯ve prepared a set of talismans,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a smile, taking out a talisman box.


    Zhao Siyao opened the box and found twelve talismans inside.


    Eight mid-second-rank talismans, all of excellent quality, and four superior-second-rank talismans. These talismans included various types, such as attack, defense, escape, and restriction-breaking, providing aprehensive set.


    ¡°This set of talismans of Fellow Daoist Lan exceeds my expectations,¡± Zhao Siyao said joyfully.


    To prepare for the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, she had been gathering resources, hunting demon beasts, andpleting sect missions. With this set of talismans, her overall strength and survival ability in the secret realm would increase by at least thirty percent.


    Lan Chang''an gave her a discount on the price; he charged ny percent of the market rate. This was no problem, since if he was to sell them wholesale torge shops, he wouldn''t be able to reach such prices either.


    ¡°Thank you for your care, Fellow Daoist Lan,¡± Zhao Siyao said, taking out a bag of spirit stones to buy the talismans.


    Superior-second-rank talismans were not very cost-effective; five or six of them would equal one supreme-grade magical weapon, and they were difficult to acquire. Due to the material and sess rate limitations, Lan Chang''an''s stock wasn''t particrlyrge. Of course, superior-second-rank talismans no longer counted as part of his trump cards.


    Lan Chang''an only showed his skill as a mid-second-rank talisman master, iming he couldn¡¯t make superior-grade talismans. But given his near-century age, having a few superior-second-rank talismans wasn¡¯t out of ce.


    Zhao Siyao was his most trusted Foundation Establishment cultivator, with a friendship spanning over seventy years. Years ago, when they cooperated in alchemy, Zhao Siyao didn¡¯t covet the Foundation Establishment Pills and even guarded him, an aged cultivator with slim chances of advancing, for a month.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, can you bring spirit pets or puppets into the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°Spirit pets above the second rank require a quota, but there are no such restrictions for puppets,¡± Zhao Siyao replied.


    The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm was a shared resource of Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, and each spot was precious. As a sect cultivator, securing one was slightly easier. Besidespeting for the spot, Zhao Siyao had to hand over at least sixty percent of her gains to the sect.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, would you be interested in buying a few puppets?¡± Lan Chang''an inquired.


    ¡°First-rank puppets aren¡¯t very useful to me,¡± Zhao Siyao noted, having seen the first-rank puppets Lan Chang''an made on Little Turtle Peak, they were at most of superior first-rank.


    Lan Chang''an had been studying puppetry for twenty years already, having sold them for many years at Wuqi Mountain. His puppets were paired with second-rank talismans, making a small profit after covering costs.


    Practicing multiple skills simultaneously wasmon in the cultivation world, though most could only specialize in one, with othersgging behind. Lan Chang''an appeared to be a mid-second-rank talisman master and a superior-grade first-rank puppeteer.


    ...


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, please follow me,¡± Lan Chang''an led Zhao Siyao to the secret room and took out three low-grade second-rank puppets from his storage pouch.


    ¡°Second-rank puppets?¡± Zhao Siyao''s eyes brightened with surprise, ncing at Lan Chang''an but didn''t ask further questions.


    ¡°Second-rank puppets are very useful in the secret realm. It''s just that, with the consumption of purchases in the previous few years, plus buying this set of talismans from fellow Daoist Lan, I can''t take out many more spirit stones.¡± Zhao Siyao said regretfully.


    ¡°The puppets can be sold at half price. Fellow Daoist Zhao only needs to gather information on key resources in the secret realm for me. If you can obtain any of the items listed in this jade slip, I¡¯ll buy them at a high price...¡± Lan Chang''an handed Zhao Siyao a jade slip.


    Outside of sects, some secret realm spots were sold at high prices, but Lan Chang''an had no ns to enter the secret realm himself. He preferred to invest in his Foundation Establishment friends entering the realm.


    The jade slip listed needed resources such as:


    - Third-rank spirit bamboo


    - Main ingredients for Life Extension Pill


    - Auxiliary ingredients for core formation pill


    - Materials or embryos for magic treasures


    - High-quality talisman materials


    If Zhao Siyao could obtain one or two of these items, that would be great. If not, she could gather information for him to contact the resource holders outside the secret realm.


    ¡°This matter requires a little effort, the risk is not too great, I agree to cooperate with fellow Daoist Lan,¡± Zhao Siyao nodded after reviewing the jade slip.


    She chose two low second-rank puppets, paying most of the spirit stones upfront, the rest was covered by two bottles of Foundation Establishment cultivation pills.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that the transaction had drained Zhao Siyao¡¯s entire spirit stone reserves. The two low second-rank puppets were worth nearly four superior-grade magical weapons. Thanks to Lan Chang''an''s discount, Zhao Siyao could afford them after gritting her teeth and squeezing out the money she needed.


    Of the two, one was the turtle puppet with strong defense. Lan Chang''an didn''t mind; it was an early work of his, and he was already preparing to refine a mid-grade second-rank puppet. Ordinary low second-rank puppets were not even as strong as his physical body.


    After the transaction, the two old friends chatted from afternoon until evening. In the end, Zhao Siyao departed without staying the night.


    ...


    A few dayster at dawn, two beams of Foundation Establishment cultivation light pierced through Wuqi Mountain''s hazy mist.


    ¡°Rest assured, Fellow Daoist Zheng. Fairy Shi is Chen¡¯s ex-wife and will do her best to create an excellent n-protecting formation for your noble family,¡± a weary middle-aged man with a crown led the way with a hint of ttery.


    No one of the cultivators of Wuqi Mountain could not recognize this person''s identity, Chen Sheng, Shi Manrong''s ex-husband. Next to him stood another older man with dark skin and a sturdy build. Hisplexion was marked by deep scars and pitted blemishes.

 Chapter 121: Breaking the Bank to Avert Calamity

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Upon seeing Chen Sheng, the steward Lan Lin suppressed her disgust.


    ¡°How may I address this esteemed senior?¡± She stepped forward and greeted the dark-skinned old man with a bow.


    ¡°My name is Zheng Wu. In thest two years, I moved my family to Apricot Vi. I heard that Wuqi Mountain has a second-rank formation master with exceptional abilities, so I came to seek assistance.¡± The dark-skinned old man squeezed out a smile, though it looked somewhat awkward alongside his fierce visage.


    ¡°Apricot Vi?¡± Hearing this, Lan Lin couldn''t help but nce at Chen Sheng.


    Apricot Vi was originally the spiritual vein residence of Chen Sheng''s family, which had been mortgaged and sold decades ago.


    ¡°Senior Zheng, please follow me.¡± Lan Lin led the way to Xiao Pan Peak and negotiated with those inside.


    ¡°Chen Sheng, stop bothering me.¡±


    A displeased voice emerged as a tall, elegant woman stepped out from the cave mansion on Xiao Pan Peak.Zheng Wu frowned slightly and nced at Chen Sheng.


    Chen Sheng coughed lightly, with an awkward smile:


    ¡°Manrong, this time I¡¯m here to introduce some business. This is Fellow Daoist Zheng Wu, the new owner of Apricot Vi and the patriarch of the Zheng Family.¡±


    Hearing the words "Apricot Vi," Shi Manrong paused, feeling a mix of emotions. She had been raised by the Chen Family since childhood, growing up there, learning formations, and eventually marrying there too.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s Fellow Daoist Zheng. Pleasee in and discuss.¡± Shi Manrong gracefully raised her hand and opened the formation.


    Chen Sheng beamed and followed Zheng Wu into Xiao Pan Peak.


    ...


    At Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an finished his daily cultivation and talisman nurturing.


    He exited his cave mansion to check the growth of spiritual trees and herbs on the mountain.


    Twenty years ago, when he first moved to Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an nted many spiritual herb seeds and saplings of spiritual trees. The older these spiritual trees and herbs grew, the more valuable they became.


    ¡°Senior Brother Lan, Chen Sheng the scoundrel is here again, bringing a fierce-looking Foundation Establishment cultivator to ask for Fairy Shi¡¯s help.¡± Whenever Chen Sheng came, Guan Qiaozhi would always report.


    Lan Chang''an nodded but paid it no mind; it didn''t sound like Chen Sheng was looking for him.


    Half an hourter, Chen Sheng and the dark-skinned old man named Zheng Wu left Xiao Pan Peak.


    ¡°My ex-wife¡¯s formation n must have satisfied you, old brother Zheng? As for this little brother''s reward...¡± Chen Sheng asked with a ttering smile.


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    Zheng Wu hummed softly and casually threw him a small bag of spirit stones.


    Chen Sheng checked it and his face darkened. Inside were only a dozen or so spirit stones and some unformed spirit sand that hadn''t formed into blocks.


    ¡°I heard there¡¯s also a second-rank alchemist and talisman master on Wuqi Mountain. Could Brother Chen introduce them?¡± Zheng Wu¡¯s long, narrow eyes narrowed slightly.


    ...


    ¡°Huh! This person...¡±


    On Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an casually nced at the flying figures of Chen Sheng and the dark-skinned old man.


    His gaze fixed on the sturdy, dark-skinned old man.


    Although much older and with most of his facial scars healed, Lan Chang''an still recognized his identity.


    ¡°Senior Brother Lan, do you know that Foundation Establishment elder?" Guan Qiaozhi noticed his expression.


    ¡°Hmm, this person is nicknamed ¡®Zheng Wugong(Centipede),¡¯ once a ninthyer Qi-Refining elder of the Zheng Family on Bamboo Leaf Mountain.¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s face showed surprise.


    Decades ago, Zheng Wugong had led a team to intercept and kill their group of immortal seedlings at Lake Feiyue. Later, the Zheng Family¡¯s Bamboo Leaf Mountain was attacked by the Mu Family and they chose to submit to the Maple Leaf Huang Family.


    As the only remaining ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator, Zheng Wugong took a branch of his family and relocated.


    At that time, to ensure their safe migration, Zheng Wugong even pleaded with the Beast Taming Zhou Family, gaining their promise that the Mu and Huang families would not wipe out everyst one of the Zheng Family cultivators.


    During their journey, Lan Chang''an bumped into them and killed the Zheng Family¡¯s ugly woman in passing to avenge himself.


    ¡°Bamboo Leaf Mountain Zheng Family? The current Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town?¡± Guan Qiaozhi realized.


    Watching Zheng Wugong and Chen Sheng leave, Lan Chang''an fell into contemtion, feeling slightly conflicted.


    There wasn¡¯t a deep-seated hatred between him and Zheng Wugong. They had never met directly and had no personal grudges or conflicting interests. In the early years, Zheng Wugong might not have even remembered someone like him.


    But to say there was no enmity...


    Zheng Wugong had once led a team to intercept and kill immortal seedlings, posing a threat to him. At that time, Lan Chang''an was only at the firstyer of Qi-Refining, his most vulnerable stage.


    ¡°Qiaozhi, go out and gather information about Zheng Wugong.¡±


    Lan Chang''an instructed.


    ¡°Yes, Senior Brother Lan.¡± Guan Qiaozhi flew out of Little Turtle Peak.


    Apart from the three main peaks, there were some loose cultivators attached to Wuqi Mountain, who earned their right to cultivate on the mountain by serving the three main peaks. Some of these people had rtively well-informed sources.


    An hourter, Guan Qiaozhi returned with general information.


    ¡°Chen Sheng¡¯s former second-rank spiritual vein family residence was bought by the Zheng Family two years ago after the mortgage expired¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood the cause and effect.


    The branch of the Zheng Family that Zheng Wugong had taken away had persevered through arduous struggle and sessfully maintained their lineage.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that Zheng Wugong had carried some precious resources hidden by the Zheng Family when he left, allowing him to establish himself upon arrival. As long as a Foundation Establishment cultivator emerged from that branch, they would eventually rise again.


    Judging from the energy fluctuations just now, Zheng Wugong had a Foundation Establishment third-level cultivation, stagnating at this bottleneck for a long time.


    He probably reached the Foundation Establishment stage decades ago and only recently led his family to find a new spiritual vein field.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    A ray of light swiftly returned to Wuqi Mountain. The sturdy, dark-skinned old man flew to the front of Little Turtle Peak.


    ¡°Zheng Wu from the former Bamboo Leaf Mountain Zheng Familyes to visit Talisman Master Lan.¡± Zheng Wugong¡¯s voice was deep and solemn.


    After waiting for about ten breaths.


    ¡°Senior Zheng, my master invites you in.¡± A beautiful young woman in a dress came to greet him.


    Being a Foundation Establishment cultivator and head of his family, it was somewhat dismissive for Lan Chang''an to only send a maid over to greet Zheng Wugong.


    ¡°Please lead the way, miss.¡±


    Zheng Wugong remained calm, speaking politely without showing displeasure.


    Entering the main hall of the cave mansion.


    A gentle and serene man in white appeared in his sight.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zheng, I have longed to meet you since my youth, but today is the first time we''ve crossed paths.¡± Lan Chang''an said with a smile.


    ¡°You tter me, Fellow Daoist Lan! Your inspirational reputation precedes you.¡± Zheng Wugong returned the greeting, cupping his hands respectfully.


    Lan Chang''an returned the salute and invited his guest to sit.


    Sitting in the lower seat, Zheng Wugong feltplex emotions. Decades ago, at Lake Feiyue, he had only nced at Lan Chang''an during the interception of those immortal seedlings.


    At that time, Lan Chang''an, with his firstyer Qi-Refining cultivation, had killed a new thirdyer Qi-Refining member of their family.


    Later, the ugly woman Zheng Feng harbored a grudge against Lan Chang''an for many years, and he had only heard his name in passing. To him, Lan Chang''an had been nothing more than an insignificant nobody.


    A few days ago, he followed Chen Sheng¡¯s guidance to seek formation assistance on Wuqi Mountain. Afterwards, Chen Sheng informed him about the other two peak masters of Wuqi Mountain.


    It wasn''t until halfway home, as he dredged through scraps of memory, that he finally confirmed the identity of this Talisman Master Lan.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an and Zheng Wugong chatted for a while, learning about the Zheng Family¡¯s current situation. The Zheng Family had just moved to Apricot Vi and was not as strong as they were at their peak on Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, this is a small token from me.¡± Zheng Wugong forced a smile, presenting a bag of spirit stones.


    ¡°If I have offended you in any way in the past, I hope you will not hold it against me.¡±


    Lan Chang''an epted the spirit stones, his spiritual sense scanning them, finding a thousand spirit stones.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zheng, you¡¯re too kind.¡± Lan Chang''an put away the spirit stones, easing the atmosphere.


    ¡°There¡¯s no personal grievances between us. Moreover, I have long left the Mu Family of Lake Feiyue, and we no longer have opposing stances.¡±


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zheng can ask around, when had this humble one ever been irreconcbly hostile toward anyone?¡±


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, your magnanimity is well-known.¡± Zheng Wugong praised loudly, secretly wondering: if not you then who killed Zheng Feng and her brother on the road back then?


    The ugly woman Zheng Feng had only one life-and-death enemy over the years, and that was Lan Chang''an.


    Decades ago, it was just spection, not certain. But judging Lan Chang''an¡¯s current achievements, it showed that he had hidden himself deeply in his youth, yet avenged every wrong.


    Zheng Wugong came to apologize, partly because of this.


    The Zheng Family had just moved to Apricot Vi, with an unstable foundation and unfinished n-protecting formation. He didn¡¯t want to offend a Foundation Establishment loose cultivator with formidable strength and connections.


    Lan Chang''an had no externalbat achievements since Foundation Establishment. But as a second-rank talisman master with a second-rank spirit beast, he was far from ordinary.


    Back then, he had already been hiding himself so deeply. How much more formidable was he now, with the full extent of his power unknown?


    Fierce as Zheng Wugong was, for the sake of his newly established family, he could only apologize and expend his fortune to resolve the enmity.


    ...


    After half an hour of chatting, Zheng Wugong took his leave.


    Lan Chang''an personally escorted him out.


    Previously, when Zheng Wugong came to his door, he had purposely been dismissive towards him by having his concubine receive him. This was to secretly observe the man''s expressions and gauge any signs of resentment or dissatisfaction.


    At the cave entrance.


    Zheng Wugong thought of something and asked, ¡°By the way, Fellow Daoist Lan, that Fellow Daoist Chen said you two are sworn brothers. Is this true?¡±


    Sworn brothers?


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s face twitched slightly, feeling both amused and annoyed:


    ¡°There''s no such thing, this person is despised by everyone on Wuqi Mountain.¡±


    After a moment''s thought, Lan Chang''an figured Zheng Wugong¡¯s question must have another purpose.


    ¡°What, did Chen Sheng offend Fellow Daoist Zheng?¡±


    ¡°It''s not that serious.¡± Zheng Wugongughed.


    ¡°Because my Zheng Family¡¯s current residence, Apricot Vi, was once the Chen Family¡¯s territory. There are some historical properties around the manor that are disputed with Fellow Daoist Chen.¡±


    Lan Chang''an immediately understood: Chen Sheng saw the Zheng Family as neers with an unstable foundation and wanted to extort them.


    Zheng Wugongcked local connections and was wary of Chen Sheng, so he was avoiding direct conflict.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zheng, if he¡¯s being unreasonable, you don¡¯t need to consider my or Fairy Shi¡¯s face.¡± Lan Chang''an responded.


    ¡°Thank you for the advice, Fellow Daoist Lan.¡±


    Zheng Wugong cupped his hands and left, a cold gleam shing in his eyes.


    Lan Chang''an watched his departing figure, pondering.


    ¡°I still need to observe a bit more.¡± Just now, Zheng Wugong had apologized and spared no expense to make amends, proving himself to be sincere.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t the type to kill a thousand innocents for a single mistake. For the time being, he considered the enmity resolved temporarily. Only after several decades passed with Zheng Wugong showing no further hostility or suspicious behavior, could it truly be considered closed.


    ...


    The day after Zheng Wugong left, Fairy Shi from Xiao Pan Peak gracefully descended.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, I have a few questions for you.¡±


    ¡°There''s no need for us to go to your cave mansion.¡±


    Shi Manrong, in a in dress, smiled reservedly and elegantly raised her hand to set up a soundproof barrier.


    ¡°What does Fairy Shi wish to ask?¡± Lan Chang''an remained calm.


    It had been a year since Shi Manrong had lost part of her memory. It was unknown what she had recalled or what information she had surmised.


    ¡°Before I fell unconscious, did I mention any cave or ruins to you?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Lan Chang''an responded indifferently.


    Before losing her memory, Shi Manrong was willing to cooperate with him to explore the ancient ruin, but now she might not be. Besides, he didn¡¯t know the exact location of the ancient ruin.


    Shi Manrong rubbed her brow, her mind containing only fragmented information about the ancient ruin.


    ¡°Are we really just ordinary friends?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then why did I leave a letter before I passed out, asking to give part of my inheritance to Fellow Daoist Lan after my death?¡± Shi Manrong stared at Lan Chang''an¡¯s face with clear, calm eyes.


    Lan Chang''an blinked, his expression one of surprise.

 Chapter 122: Immortal Huanglong

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    One yearter, on Little Turtle Peak.


    In the medicine room, a slender woman in a green dress, with skin as cold and white as jade,y on the bed.


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his hand from Mu Bingyun¡¯s dantian, the green light on his palm fading away through her clothes.


    ¡°Bingyun, you¡¯ve now reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining and have been nurturing and conditioning your body for twelve years. What are your ns going forward?¡±


    Lan Chang''an stood up, withdrawing his hand, and asked casually.


    ¡°Uncle Lan, has the nurturing period ended?¡± Mu Bingyun sat up, asking absentmindedly, feeling somewhat disappointed.


    Over the years, Uncle Lan personally treated her every two months. Initially, Mu Bingyun felt somewhat ufortable. But gradually, she grew ustomed to it; that sense of warmth akin to being carried within one''s mother''s womb allowed her body and mind to rx, bringing her immensefort.


    It wasn¡¯t just physical and mentalfort; she felt her cultivation progress seemed a bit smoother.Uncle Lan¡¯s serene and gentle demeanor was also pleasing to behold. Each nurturing session dispelled the usual tedium and boredom and unknowingly, the bi-monthly nurturing sessions became something she quietly looked forward to.


    ¡°Yes, the nurturing period is almost over.¡± Lan Chang''an nodded.


    Years ago, Mu Bingyun hadpletely regained her cultivation speed. Now that her dantian had been repaired, Mu Bingyun''s foundation was stronger than ever, thanks to the periodic nourishment of Evergreen mana.


    As a result, her cultivation progress was slightly faster than expected, reaching the ninthyer of Qi-Refining at forty.


    ¡°Uncle Lan asked me about my ns. Is he preparing to send Bingyun away?¡± Mu Bingyun¡¯s eyes reddened, her snow-like face showing a pitiful expression.


    Lan Chang''an looked at her: When Mu Bingyun first arrived at Little Turtle Peak, she was solitary and aloof, not knowing how to express grievance or feminine weakness. This was a skill Guan Qiaozhi excelled at.


    ¡°This is not your home; the Mu Family is.¡± Lan Chang''an stated inly. Taking in this female cultivator, nurturing her for twelve years, and asionally giving guidance was only a way to make up for a past regret.


    Of course, Mu Bingyun¡¯s presence on Little Turtle Peak wasn¡¯t an inconvenience. She acted as a maid, assisting with talisman drawing tasks and managing the affairs of the mountain.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to go back to the Mu Family; it¡¯s the Li Family¡¯s Feiyue Lake now!¡± Mu Bingyun bit her pink lips, her gaze icy, filled with a faint mist.


    ¡°If I don¡¯t be a second-rank talisman master or reach the Foundation Establishment Realm, I have no face to see my master.¡±


    Lan Chang''an pondered. It seemed that Mu Xiuyun had high hopes for this female disciple.


    Back then, Mu Xiuyun was confined to the family and could only buy a Meridian Protecting Pill, failing to reach the Foundation Establishment stage. Meanwhile, Lan Chang''an sought opportunities outside and sessfully achieved Foundation Establishment. Perhaps, she wanted her disciple to walk a different path from her own.


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s mention of the ¡°Li Family¡¯s Feiyue Lake¡± made it clear that the conflict between the two branches of the Mu Family was difficult to reconcile.


    ¡°What are your ns if you don¡¯t return to the Mu Family?¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood that even if Mu Bingyun returned, it would be hard for her to gain the greatest support to reach the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Li Erqing¡¯s grandson, Mu Congren, also had a middle-grade spiritual root, was nearly ten years younger than Mu Bingyun, and his cultivation progress was faster than thetter''s at the same age.


    ¡°Bingyun wants to be an ordinary maid on Little Turtle Peak, and assist Uncle Lan in drawing talismans and taking care of the affairs on the mountain¡­¡± Mu Bingyun lowered her head as she spoke out her thoughts.


    ¡°In addition, I¡¯d like to make some first-rank talismans to sell to the wandering cultivators around Wuqi Mountain. Part of the proceeds will go to Little Turtle Peak aspensation for allowing me to cultivate here.¡±


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s talisman-drawing skills had reached the first-rank top superior-grade level. Over the years, she had sold some first-rank talismans at Wuqi Mountain. Because Lan Chang''an only sold second-rank talismans, the supply could not significantly exceed the demand.


    ¡°No need. Little Turtle Peak has few people. Working as a maid, including all other duties, is sufficientpensation for cultivating here. The profit from drawing talismans can be kept for yourself for your Foundation Establishment ns.¡±


    Lan Chang''an did not provide special treatment, only offering a fair employment arrangement.


    ¡°Thank you, Uncle Lan.¡± Mu Bingyun¡¯s eyes brightened as she bowed slightly.


    Little Turtle Peak had a good spiritual environment. Cultivating and drawing talismans here asionally garnered guidance from Lan Chang''an as well.


    Nearby Little Pill Peak made it easy to buy various cultivation pills, including beauty pills, at prices more favorable than those found in outside shops.


    In contrast,petition over resources within the Mu Family back home was fierce, and conditions were far less favorable.


    Mu Xiuyun¡¯s refusal to let her return was obviously carefully considered.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    Little Turtle Peak, inside a secret room.


    A humanoid puppet with a wolf head, d in scales and carrying five silver-ck spears on its back, stood before Lan Chang''an.


    Zizz! Pop!


    The wolf-headed puppet grabbed a spear, dragging an arc of electricity, easily piercing the secret room¡¯s barrier, leaving holes several-inch-deep in the floor.


    ¡°Finally, it¡¯s a sess.¡±


    Lan Chang''an looked slightly fatigued, exhaling deeply.


    After several failures, he sessfully crafted a second-rank mid-grade puppet.


    This puppet was not limited to closebat; its spears could be thrown at mid to long distances, posing a threat to mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Nearly ten years after bing a second-order puppet master, he had now taken the first step into the second-rank mid-grade level.


    The cost of crafting this puppet, based on market prices, meant that he''d incurred a small loss. Nheless, this development exceeded his expectations.


    In addition to this second-rank mid-grade puppet. Lan Chang''an also crafted three second-rank low-grade puppets, all of premium quality. They were the turtle puppet, the archer puppet, and the flying bird puppet.


    Relying on puppets alone, Lan Chang''an could suppress mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators. Of course, puppet techniques had their limitations. To utilize its true strength, it had to bebined with the puppet control technique, which required a high level of spiritual sense. This involved sharing a portion of one''s spiritual sense with the puppets.


    Using magic weapons or magic treasures also required spiritual sense, limiting the number of puppets one could control and their overall power.


    Ordinary first and second-rank puppetscked independent intelligence and could only follow simplemands. Even high-level intelligent puppets needed the support of puppet control technique to fully exert their power.


    Lan Chang''an had a strong spiritual sense and deep puppet control technique skills, allowing him to effectively control several second-rank mid and low-grade puppets.


    ...


    ¡°There''s still a few months to go before the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm will open.¡± Lan Chang''an put away the puppets and left the secret room. In his cave mansion, he organized some supplies.


    A few dayster, he instructed Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun, then boarded a flying boat, heading north to the border of Liang Kingdom.


    The northern border of the Liang Kingdom was technically north of the ck Fog Mountain Range¡¯s branch.


    The branch of the ck Fog Mountain Range passed through the northern part of the Liang Kingdom, with small gaps forming valleys that cultivators could pass through.


    These passageways asionally housed scattered demonic beasts, posing a threat to low-level Qi-Refining cultivators or mortals.


    Foundation Establishment cultivators could pass safely unless they were extremely unlucky and encountered second-rank or higher demonic beasts.


    Additionally, there was the ck Blood Road opened up by ancient cultivators. It was amercial route carved through the narrow regions of the mountain range¡¯s branches.


    To the north of Huanglong Immortal City, the ck Blood Road connected with the Liuyun Sect on the other side of the ck Fog Mountain Range branch, linking two great cultivation families and numerous medium and small factions.


    Further north from the Liuyun Sect was the territory of Fengyuan Country, separated by the perilous Flying Sand region.


    After flying north for over half a month, Lan Chang''an reached the valley passageway of the ck Fog Mountain Range¡¯s branch.


    This location was somewhat deeper, situated between the Beast Taming Zhou Family and Huanglong Immortal City.


    The valley passageway stretched for hundreds of li. During this journey, there were almost no traces of demonic beasts; if there were, they were hunted by nearby hunting teams.


    The real concern was rogue cultivators. Fortunately, disciples from the Liuyun Sect often came here toplete missions, eliminating well-known rogue cultivators to earn sect contributions.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, Lan Chang''an passed safely through the valley passageway. During the journey, he sensed rogue cultivators in the shadows but they refrained from targeting him.


    Afterwards, Lan Chang''an truly entered the northern border of the Liang Kingdom. The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm was not far from the other end of the ck Fog Mountain Range¡¯s branch.


    ...


    In the deste desert.


    Near a tall, hundred-zhang green-ck stone wall, some cultivators were scattered sparsely about. These cultivators were mostly at the Foundation Establishment stage or higher.


    At this moment, a young man in a gray robe arrived in the area, riding a flying boat.


    The surrounding Foundation Establishment cultivators nced casually at him, then ignored him.


    The young man in the gray robe had ordinary power and an unremarkable aura, making his presence rather low-key.


    ¡°Hmm, that person seems to be the Turtle Talisman Master, the rumored cultivator who achieved Foundation Establishment cultivator at seventy?¡±


    Some cultivators recognized Lan Chang''an, whispering among themselves.


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged beside a hill of the desert, waiting with eyes closed.


    At present, none of the major sects or significant powers had arrived.


    A few of the Foundation Establishment cultivators here were likely participants who bought expensive spots, all at mid tote Foundation Establishment Realm. They were at least somewhat famous in Liang''s cultivation world. Most of the other cultivators had simr goals to Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    They camped here to establish connections with those entering the secret realm, hoping to buy rare resources from them when they emerged.


    Some of these Foundation Establishment cultivators were representatives ofrge shops or merchant associations.


    Half a monthter.


    ¡°Hmm? The aura of a Core Formation Immortal¡­¡± Lan Chang''an sensed a powerful Core Formation aura approaching from the north.


    He remained still, avoiding looking in that direction, keeping his spiritual sense tightly guarded.


    After about ten breathster, a twenty to thirty-zhang-long tower-like ship, carrying over thirty cultivators, flew toward the green-ck stone wall.


    The shipnded, and the first cultivator to step off was a tall, sturdy young man with a firm face.


    ¡°Greetings to Senior Tuoba.¡±


    The nearby Foundation Establishment cultivators stood up and saluted.


    Indeed, the young man in the early Core Formation stage was Tuoba Jin, who had once challenged the Fake-Dan at Huanglong Immortal City.


    Traditionally, representatives of the major sects visiting the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm were usually at the mid-Core Formation Realm. However, Tuoba Jin was a true Golden-Dan cultivator, whose foundation and power surpassed those of the same level with True-Dans.


    ¡°No need for formalities.¡±


    Tuoba Jin¡¯s spiritual sense casually swept the area as someone swiftly brought him a chair and pavilion to sit in.


    ¡°The Liuyun Sect is second only to me Departing Pce in the Liang Kingdom, located in the northern region nearest to the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, so they naturally arrived first.¡± Lan Chang''an pondered.


    The Liuyun Sect had at least seven or eight known Core Formation Immortals and dozens of Fake-Dan cultivators on the surface.


    Two or three dayster, a stronger aura than Tuoba Jin¡¯s approached from the south through the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    To be precise, there were two powerful auras.


    ¡°Huanglong Immortal!¡±


    The nearby Foundation Establishment cultivators showed respectful expressions.


    In the southern sky, a third-rank dragon beast, resembling a crocodile and a flood dragon, flew with a length of fifteen to sixteen zhang, carrying several figures on its back.


    On the dragon beast¡¯s head stood a middle-aged man in a ck and yellow robe, of medium build, with bronze skin, a broad forehead, and streaks of silver in his temples.


    This was Lan Chang''an¡¯s first time seeing ¡°Huanglong Immortal,¡± the foremost wandering cultivator of the Liang Kingdom.


    To avoid attracting the attention of the Core Formation Immortal, he only observed out of the corner of his eye.


    ...

 Chapter 123: Storm In The Secret Realm

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Behind Huanglong Immortal stood four or five Foundation Establishment cultivators on the dragon''s back, including his disciples and trusted members cultivated by Huanglong Immortal City.


    Fu Xuemei was absent from this group.


    The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm is reputed to have a 40% mortality rate, with unknown and unpredictable dangers. As a cultivator with earth spiritual roots and a strong background, she did not need to risk her life unless she was not satisfied with True-Dan and wanted to attempt the extremely difficult Golden-Dan.


    After Huanglong Immortal City, other forces arrived en route. Their representatives were either Fake-Dan cultivators or early-stage Core Formation cultivators. These forces included the seven great cultivation families, other immortal city forces, and some merchant organizations.


    Among these was the Beast Taming Zhou Family, led by a short, wrinkled old man at the Fake-Dan stage, likely the Zhou Family''s Fake-Dan ancestor. Following the Zhou ancestor were a male and a female Foundation Establishment cultivator. The girl in the yellow dress at mid-Foundation Establishment stage was Zhou Qingxuan, a familiar face to Lan Chang''an. He was slightly surprised as this girl, with her high-grade spiritual roots and excellent beast taming talents, was highly valued in the Zhou Family. It was unexpected to see her participating in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    ...


    Two dayster, a massive golden boat flew in, carrying the cultivators of Jin Yun Valley. Leading them was a rotund, red-faced middle-aged Core Formation cultivator. Onboard were thirty Foundation Establishment cultivators, including Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan.


    That evening, a giant piece of gray-ck wood, several dozen zhang long, came flying through the air with immense spiritual pressure. More than thirty cultivators stood on the branches. Leading them was a youthful, refined, and imposing Core Formation cultivator with red lips and white teeth, known as Lingyu Immortal from the Qingzhu Sect. He looked only sixteen or seventeen years old but his actual age was at least three hundred years old.Lan Chang''an found this unsurprising; in his previous lifetime, he had even seen a six- or seven-year-old child-like Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    "ckwater Sandalwood, almost fourth-rank!" Seeing the giant wood under Lingyu Immortal''s feet, Lan Chang''an felt a surge of desire. However, this wood had been refined into a half-finished flying magic treasure, making it unsuitable as raw material for treasure talismans.


    "Chen Fuhai is here too?" Lan Chang''an noticed a familiar plump middle-aged man among the Qingzhu Sect''s crowd, making him frown and heighten his alertness.


    The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm only restricted cultivation levels, not age. Each major sect''s Foundation Establishment cultivators could only enter the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm once in their lifetime. Young or old cultivators were generally unsuitable: the formercked sufficient cultivation, and thetter, with declining strength, couldn''t make significant progress even if they obtained opportunities. Hence, most entrants were mid tote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, aiming for breakthroughs or opportunities for Core Formation.


    With ten days remaining until the secret realm opened, the Nascent Soul-level power "me Departing Pce" arrivedte. Their flying treasure was a massive cloud-like cloth carrying over sixty cultivators, led by a fairylike, white-browed elder known as Yuxiao Immortal. Various sects and other Immortals greeted him respectfully.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t recognize many from the me Departing Pce except for a young man with short hair in a ck robe, whom he had almost shed with over the Golden Nan Spirit Bamboo. He only knew this man''s surname was Wu, a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Thest sect to arrive was the "Xuan Yin Pavilion" from the southern part of the Liang Kingdom, farthest from the secret realm''s entrance. A half-mu ancient five-story pavilion descended from the sky, and a group of graceful female cultivators emerged from the pavilion, their voices like the songs of birds and the whispers of swallows, drawing the attention of male cultivators from all directions.


    Xuan Yin Pavilion, a righteous sect for female cultivators, was led by a Core Formation woman named Ni Yue Immortal, a pce maiden with a lovely face, exquisite features, lips as red as cinnabar, and a peerless aura.


    Pce Maiden Ni Yue''s Daoist name was "Ni Yue," and she was known among those present as either "Ni Yue Immortal" or "Fairy Ni Yue."


    The nearby male cultivators cast stunning gazes, but didn''t dare to keep staring.


    ...


    At this point, most of the notable forces from the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world had arrived. Lan Chang''an observed that even the mighty seven great cultivation families had only one or two slots each, while Huanglong Immortal City, thergest loose cultivator city in the Liang Kingdom, had five slots. Other than sects, all other factions have to pay to get a slot.


    With some days remaining before the secret realm opened, cultivators from various forces either meditated quietly, reconnected with old friends or gathered intelligence.


    Half a dayter, two Foundation Establishment cultivators flew from the Jin Yun Valley''s camp¡ªZhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan," they greeted him.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, Fellow Daoist Zhao," Lan Chang''an replied, standing up.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan''s cultivation has advanced steadily since his Foundation Establishment, truly a case of umtion leading to rapid growth," Zhang Tieshan remarked, noting Lan Chang''an''s third level Foundation Establishment level.


    This cultivation progress was rtively slowpared to others within the Foundation Establishment Realm. Most Foundation Establishment cultivators began with mid-grade spiritual roots, with a decent chunk of them starting with high-grade spiritual roots.


    "Far fromparable to you two," Lan Chang''an humbly replied. His Evergreen Technique had a slow pace during the Qi-Refining stage, akin to low-grade spiritual roots, but now matched middle-grade spiritual roots in the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Zhang Tieshan''s cultivation advancement, however, was truly astonishing. With low-grade roots, he''d originally fallen behind Zhao Siyao by several years in reaching Foundation Establishment. Yet now, his cultivation hadpletely caught up to hers.


    The three, who had known each other for over seventy years, sat together and chatted amicably for two hours straight.


    Zhao Siyao and Lan Chang''an had long since discussed the matter of the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm two years ago.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, do you need any superior-grade second-rank talismans?" Lan Chang''an set up a soundproof barrier, so only the three could hear.


    "Superior-grade second-rank talismans? Of course, I need it! This is a scarce item for all cultivators entering the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, so the more the better.," Zhang Tieshan replied, eyeing Lan Chang''an.


    Having experienced Lan Chang''an''s capabilities during the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle incident, Zhang Tieshan knew he wasn''t merely an innocent, good-natured person. His strength was outstanding among his ss, he practiced body refining on the side, and his talisman art exceeded expectations.


    "I can sell them to you at half price..." Lan Chang''an handed over a jade slip, just as Zhao Siyao had suggested back then. However, certain high-end resources were not included in Zhang Tieshan''s jade slip.


    "No problem, I happen to be short on spirit stones," Zhang Tieshan agreed after a brief pause.


    Lan Chang''an sold him four superior-grade second-rank talismans. As for the puppets, he did not bring them out, although Zhang Tieshan''s character was good, his rtionship with him was somewhat superficialpared to Zhao Siyao''s.


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an transmitted a message, "Be wary of Chen Fuhai from the Qingzhu Sect once inside the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm."


    "Chen Fuhai?" Zhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao exchanged puzzled looks.


    Privately, Lan Chang''an warned Zhao Siyao, "There may be problems with Chen Fuhai. Keep your distance if you encounter him in the secret realm."


    "Mm." Zhao Siyao nodded, her clear, elegant eyes gazing at him without asking for further exnation.


    Zhang Tieshan, who didn''t receive the private warning, appeared thoughtful.


    Back in the Jin Yun Valley camp, Zhang Tieshan cautioned a trustedte-stage Foundation Establishment female cultivator, "Senior Sister Yu, watch out for Chen Fuhai in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm. This person''s strength is not simple."


    "Chen Fuhai?"


    In the secret realm, apart from the inherent dangers of the environment, the greatest threats came from other Foundation Establishment cultivators, particrly those from rival sects.


    Cultivators with good rtions within the same force often exchanged intelligence, such as which cultivators were strong and should thus be avoided, or which ones could be safely provoked.


    "Senior Brother Qian, I just received some new intel: Chen Fuhai from Qingzhu Sect, his strength surpasses the average Late Foundation Establishment cultivator."


    "Chen Fuhai is deeply mysterious, perhaps he will be among the most formidablepetitors at this entrance to the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm."


    "When we Chen Fuhai, don''t let your guard down."


    Within half a day, nearly half of the Foundation Establishment cultivators in Jinyun Valley''s small circle had learned that "Chen Fuhai is very strong." Only Zhao Siyao had been informed that Chen Fuhai had "problems", so it was best to stay as far away as possible.


    ...


    Besides coborating with Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan, Lan Chang''an also conversed with Zhou Qingxuan. Maintaining her youthful appearance, she seemed yful yet unreliable. This time, he didn''t offer discounted talismans but expressed a willingness to buy certain resources at high prices.


    Zhou Qingxuan, and by extension, the Zhou Family, weren''t as trustworthy. She had once sold him a problematic pill, showing her unpredictable nature.


    "We need those resources too," Zhou Qingxuan said, uninterested in coboration, but added with a teasing glint, "But if you sell us your beast-taming secret or help heal our rare, sickly spirit beasts, we might consider it."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head. "My skills are limited; I''m unable to assist." He did not stay to chat further with Zhou Qingxuan.


    From a distance, the Zhou Family''s Fake-Dan old ancestor noticed their brief exchange, showing a slight interest in Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    Days passed, and the five major forces'' Core Formation cultivators, including those from me Departing Pce, presented blue-gold tokens. Theirbined True-Dan level power activated the tokens, generating five massive pirs of light. These beams struck the hundred-zhang-high green-ck stone wall, creating a pentagon-shaped formation.


    The stone wall trembled, forming a gigantic gray vortex above it, opening a mysterious passage. The ancient atmosphere of a bygone era emanated from within, creating an unstable resonance with the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The Foundation Establishment cultivators with green jade tokens in their hands were surrounded by green-ck light, and entered the secret realm one after another.


    ...


    "The Green Underworld Mysterious Realmsts for a month," Lan Chang''an meditated, hoping Zhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao would return with some gains. Within a few days, the expressions of several Core Formation cultivators from the major sects turned grave.


    The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm had a high mortality rate. As they waited, they monitored soul tokens to track casualties. If a particrly extreme situation arose with widespread deaths, they could forcibly close the secret realm.


    Crack! Crack!


    Every so often, a soul token shattered, signaling a death. "Yuxiao Immortal, the death rate seems faster than thest two times," several Core Formation cultivators observed, looking at the white-browed elder from me Departing Pce.


    Huanglong Immortal remained silent, his expression stern. Already, one of the five slots from Huanglong Immortal City had perished.


    "Everyone, don''t panic. The death rate is within the normal range, just slightly faster than thest two times," Yuxiao Immortal reassured them, stroking his beard.


    Crack!


    His eyelids twitched as a soul token in his storage pouch cracked.

 Chapter 124: Unexpected Gains

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    The secret realm would stay open for a month.


    For Lan Chang''an, time flew by quickly. But for the Immortals of the various factions, it felt like years.


    With just an asional nce, Lan Chang''an noticed that the faces of the Core Formation Immortals from several sects were bing increasingly grave.


    Especially the white-browed elder "Yuxiao Immortal" from the me Departing Pce, who had the demeanor of an immortal.


    Huanglong Immortal''s face didn''t look any better, the wrinkles on his forehead bing more pronounced.


    "Not good... Xia Fan!"


    Half a monthter, Yuxiao Immortal''s expression changed dramatically, and he couldn''t help but exim in disbelief.


    His body surged with core power as his daoist robe billowed.The terrifying pressure of a Core Formation Realm cultivator stirred the wind and clouds in the sky, causing the Foundation Establishment cultivators several li away to feel a chill down their spines.


    "Xia Fan? The Foundation Establishment cultivator from me Departing Pce, with high-grade spiritual roots and the grandson of thew enforcement elder."


    The Immortals from nearby factions exchanged nces. Thew enforcement elder of me Departing Pce held a high position of authority and was at the peak of thete Core Formation Realm. In the cultivation world of Liang Kingdom, he was one of the strongest Immortals below the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Judging by Yuxiao Immortal''s reaction, Xia Fan''s soul token must have shattered.


    "Xia Fan was at thete stage of Foundation Establishment and, as the grandson of thew enforcement elder of me Departing Pce, he likely had protective treasures. In the secret realm, probably no one could kill him easily."


    "Decades ago, there was a rumor that the female disciple from the Xuan Yin Pavilion wasn''t actually defiled and murdered by Liang Shaotian, but rather framed by Xia Fan."


    "These were nothing more than baseless rumors, devoid of evidence, so me Departing Pce executed the evil cultivator who spread such nder."


    Now that me Departing Pce had struck bad luck, the Core Formation Immortals from the other four major sects were happy to watch the spectacle, offering a few superficial words offort to Yuxiao Immortal.


    ...


    "I''m afraid that the death rate of the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm this time is higher than before."


    Lan Chang''an, sitting cross-legged in the distance, didn''t know what had happened but could make a rough guess in his mind.


    Of course, the death rate would only be slightly higher, it wouldn''t reach such an exaggerated level as to amount to near total annihtion. If that were the case, the Core Formation Immortals from the major sects would have jointly ended this secret realm expedition early.


    The dangers of the secret realm were uncertain, and thus, the major sects were willing to sell some of the slots. Besides recouping the cost of opening the secret realm and appeasing the dissatisfaction of other factions, they also wanted to transfer some of the risks.


    ording to previous statistics, the survival rate of sect Foundation Establishment cultivators was much higher than those from other factions and wandering cultivators. Non-sect Foundation Establishment cultivators often served as cannon fodder for traps or became harvests for others.


    "Chen Fuhai is a variable. However, the direct power boost provided by The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu is limited, not enough to allow him to ughter everyone in the secret realm without restraint." Lan Chang''an pondered.


    A top-notchte Foundation Establishment cultivator from the sects still had some self-preservation ability when facing ordinary Fake-Dan cultivators.


    ...


    A month passed by.


    "Open!"


    The Core Formation Immortals of the five major forces once again activated the secret realm tokens, infusing them with their True-Dan level mana.


    Above the hundred-zhang-high green-ck stone wall, a giant dark vortex opened, creating a mysterious passage several zhang wide and tall.


    As soon as the passage opened...


    Swish! Swish! Swish!


    One figure after another flew out.


    The Foundation Establishment cultivators emerging from the secret realm were either severely injured, mentally exhausted, or their auras were in disarray.


    Thud!


    A few pale-faced cultivators copsed unconscious as soon as they exited the secret realm.


    "How did Xia Fan die? Does anyone know?"


    Yuxiao Immortal''s eyes were like the zing sun, his spiritual sense locked onto the entrance of the passage as he questioned two me Departing Pce cultivators who had juste out.


    "Reporting to the elder! Senior Brother Xia was fighting a quasi-third-rank exotic beast for a Core Formation opportunity, he was ambushed and injured, andter killed by the evil cultivator ''Li Hai.''"


    "Li Hai? Liang Shaotian''s first disciple, a genius with earth-grade spiritual roots, managed to sneak into the secret realm?"


    The Core Formation Immortals present were astonished.


    Before entering the secret realm, the Core Formation Immortals had used their spiritual senses to check the Foundation Establishment cultivators. For Li Hai to disguise himself and get in, he must have had some rare treasure to help.


    There was no ce for evil cultivators to survive in Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world. Liang Shaotian''s evil cult stronghold was eradicated, and he fled to another country years ago.


    Who would have thought that Liang Shaotian''s genius disciple would dare to take the risk of nine deaths and one life to sneak into the secret realm?


    "Are you sure it was Li Hai?" Yuxiao Immortal asked sternly.


    "A fellow disciple witnessed it with their own eyes. Although he was only at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, his demonic arts were powerful, and he had mastered the ''ck Dipper Demon me.''"


    "Is Li Hai still in the secret realm?"


    "Yes, before the passage reopened, he was hiding inside the secret realm."


    The me Departing Pce Foundation Establishment cultivator replied.


    "Good! Keep an eye on the exit, don''t let that demonic thief escape." Yuxiao Immortalmanded, his spiritual sense covering the exit of the secret realm.


    Swish!


    Suddenly, a disheveled, blood-covered Foundation Establishment cultivator fled from the secret realm, holding a head in his hand.


    It was the head of an effeminate-looking man.


    "Xia Fan!"


    Yuxiao Immortal red furiously.


    Under the pressure of the Core Formation Immortal, the Foundation Establishment cultivator holding the head copsed in fear, blood seeping from his mouth and nose.


    "Immortal, spare me! I was coerced and had restrictions ced on me..."


    Before he could finish speaking...


    A cold male voice rang out:


    "Xia Fan, for dishonoring the female cultivator of the Xuan Yin Pavilion and framing my master, you shall now meet your end!"


    Behind the Foundation Establishment cultivator holding the head, a cold, sharp-featured man appeared, holding an ancient jade talisman.


    "Courting death!"


    Yuxiao Immortal flicked his finger, and thunder rumbled in the sky, forming a cloud-shaped dark purple thunderfire.


    Swish!


    After crushing the ancient jade talisman, the cold man¡¯s aura and figure disappeared from within a radius of twenty to thirty li.


    "Minor Teleportation Talisman!" The Immortals present eximed in unison.


    The Minor Teleportation Talisman, at least third-rank, was extremely rare throughout the entire Great Qing due to the scarcity of materials and the stringent crafting methods.


    "Elder! Li Hai not only killed Senior Brother Xia Fan but also took a main ingredient required for Core Formation." A me Departing Pce cultivator reported.


    "Wait here for my orders. I am going to hunt down that demonic brat."


    Leaving a final instruction, Yuxiao Immortal flew away on a fiery cloud of light in a certain direction.


    ...


    By a distant desert hill.


    "How will you track him?"


    Lan Chang''an, sitting cross-legged, curled his lips in a slight sneer.


    Yuxiao Immortal was just putting on a show. Using the Minor Teleportation Talisman, one could instantly escape the range of a Core Formation Immortal''s spiritual sense. Chasing randomly in any direction was just a gamble. Unless all the Core Formation Immortals present joined forces to pursue in all directions.


    But that was unrealistic. The various factions were busy receiving the Foundation Establishment cultivators that came out. Over half of the gains obtained by the sect''s Foundation Establishment cultivators in the secret realm had to be turned over.


    A quarter of an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an saw Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan, and he couldn''t help but breathe a sigh of relief.


    Zhao Siyao was seriously injured, her shoulder stained with blood, her face pale, and her flight appearedbored.


    Zhang Tieshan was slightly better off, his mana disorderly, his steps somewhat stiff, indicating only minor injuries.


    The return passage of the secret realm would remain open for only one day. Those who didn¡¯te out in thetter half of the day were likely doomed.


    The one-day window was meant to give a lifeline to cultivators in special circumstances.


    As expected, two hourster, hardly anyone could be seen emerging from the entrance of the secret realm.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that only two of the five Foundation Establishment cultivators that Huanglong Immortal had brought with him hade out.


    Of the two Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Beast Taming Zhou Family, only Zhou Qingxuan came out.


    She showed no obvious injuries, but her body was weak, and her face was bloodless, suggesting she had used some secret technique that greatly depleted her vitality.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that this young woman''s survival likely owed to some lifesaving measure provided by the Zhou Family rather than pure luck alone.


    For the Beast Taming Zhou Family cultivators, without risking it all, Core Formation would be unattainable; even achieving Fake-Dan was difficult.


    "Qingxuan, did you injure your foundation?" asked the Zhou Family''s old ancestor with concern.


    "I''m fine, I just depleted some vital energy," Zhou Qingxuan replied. "However, after entering the secret realm, the pair of male and female Blood Demon Butterflies, which had been advanced using a secret technique, both died in the battle."


    "No matter, those butterflies were at the peak of first-rank cultivation, and after the secret technique elevated them to second rank, they had little longevity left." The Zhou Family''s old ancestor smiled, then handed her a medicinal pill.


    Zhou Qingxuan swallowed the pill, closed her eyes for rest, and nced toward the distant gray-robed young man.


    ...


    "Eh? It''s been two hours already, and Chen Fuhai still hasn''te out?" Lan Chang''an observed for some time, surprised.


    Among the dozen or so remaining cultivators of Qingzhu Sect, there was no sign of that familiar middle-aged man with his paunch.


    After another while, Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan flew over.


    They had already handed over sixty percent of their harvest to Jin Yun Valley, and Zhao Siyao''s injuries had also stabilized.


    "Fellow Daoists, what is the situation within the secret realm?" Lan Chang''an asked directly.


    The trio erected a soundproofing barrier before beginning their discussion.


    Two unforeseen developments had urred during this Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    "Chen Fuhai disguised himself as a Foundation Establishment cultivator, assassinating several other Foundation Establishment cultivators from various sects within the secret realm¡ªincluding even members of his own sect. Later, he identally gave away his identity, and was surrounded by the crowd of cultivators and hunted to death."


    The first development was Chen Fuhai. The manner of his death seemed suspicious to Lan Chang''an.


    In order to obtain the medicinal ingredients necessary for Core Formation, it was suspected that he sneaked up on Xia Fan of the me Departing Pce.


    The second development involved Liang Shaotian''s disciple, Li Hai.


    During his early days within the secret realm, this individual targeted only loose Foundation Establishment cultivators. Later, he turned on Xia Fan and exposed his identity by deploying techniques such as ck Dipper Demon me.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that when Li Hai infiltrated the secret realm, his primary objective was to take advantage of any opportunity that presented itself, killing a few Foundation Establishment cultivators along the way to relieve his anger.


    Later, when he discovered the injured culprit who framed his master, it presented a rare chance.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I must admit, your talismans and puppets were invaluable this time in the secret realm; without them, I may not have survived," Zhao Siyao said with lingering trepidation.


    She transmitted the message that one of the two puppets she purchased from Lan Chang''an had been destroyed, leaving behind only the severely damaged turtle puppet.


    "Among the resources collected from the jade slip, Siyao has gathered two." Zhao Siyao handed over a brocade box.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t open it but scanned its contents with spiritual sense, and his heart stirred.


    "Third-rank ck iron crystal,monly used material for crafting magical treasures and puppets, highly versatile."


    "ck inkstone, a rare treasure, can be utilized to craft high-quality inkstone and enhance spirit ink quality."


    These two items were rtively light and valued at only three thousand to four thousand spirit stones.


    After some discussion, Zhao Siyao insisted on selling them for half price. Lan Chang''an paid half with spirit stones and the other half was offset with second-rank talismans. In addition, Zhao Siyao gave Lan Chang''an a jade slip containing information about some of the owners of the resources.


    Next was Zhang Tieshan''s turn. During the transaction with Zhao Siyao, he had faced the other direction and obviously didn''t use his spiritual sense to probe.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, take a look at this item."


    Zhang Tieshan smiled as he took out a piece of purple-patterned spirit wood, about one zhang long, its surface shimmering with splendid light.


    "Third-rank spirit wood: Purple Radiant Spirit Wood."


    Lan Chang''an was overjoyed; this wood possessed strong spiritual properties, reaching mid-grade of third-rank materials.


    With this single piece of third-rank spirit wood, Lan Chang''an''s investment in the secret realm had already met his expectations.


    "This wood came from the Foundation Establishment cultivator I defeated during my counterattack. The situation was rather perilous. Originally, I obtained two pieces, but the bigger one of them was bought away by Uncle-Master Teng."

 Chapter 125: Unexpected Encounter With An Enemy

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Uncle-Master Teng?"


    Lan Chang''an nced at the distant Jin Yun Valley Core Formation cultivator, a middle-aged man ofrge build with a ruddyplexion.


    This time, the opening of the secret realm caused fewer losses for Jin Yun Valleypared to the other sects.


    Zhang Tieshan nodded, looking content; obviously, this trip to the secret realm had resulted in a good harvest for him.


    Zhao Siyao''s expression was indifferent, seemingly not having met her expectations. Although she had some gains, she hadn''t obtained the key resources to break through thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    Lan Chang''an mused: Honest exploration of opportunities within the secret realm can hardlypare to the efficiency of killing and looting.


    Then, Lan Chang''an appraised the third-rank mid-grade "Purple Radiant Spirit Wood," estimating it to be worth three to four thousand spirit stones, andpleted the transaction with Zhang Tieshan.


    Though this piece of spirit wood is of high-quality, it had no special properties, and was merely aponent for refining ordinary magic treasures.Although Lan Chang''an had prepared plenty of spirit stones beforehand, he used some second-rank talismans to settle the payment, leaving enough surplus for theter acquisitions.


    Apart from the third-rank spirit wood, Zhang Tieshan also gave Lan Chang''an a jade slip, which recorded the owners of certain resources.


    "Fellow Daoists, can you detail Chen Fuhai death?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    Zhao Siyao replied, "The details are unclear. This person ambushed and robbed cultivators from all sides and offended too many people. There were quite a few cultivators who were after him at the time, the four major sects and all the great cultivation families had people involved as well."


    Although Chen Fuhai''s actions had enraged many, such characters had appeared in past secret realm openings as well.


    For the sake of achieving Core Formation and extending their lives by another few hundred years, people hadmitted even worse deeds than this.


    "When Chen Fuhai was being chased, I noticed something unusual," Zhang Tieshan pondered.


    "Oh? What did you discover, Brother Zhang?" Lan Chang''an knew that Zhang Tieshan, who worked in the sect''s Law Enforcement Hal, had rich experience in pursuing people.


    "After Chen Fuhai''s death, his exposed wealth amounted to no more than that of an ordinaryte Foundation Establishment cultivator," Zhang Tieshan said.


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but specte. Normally speaking, Chen Fuhai who had killed many cultivators and amassed great riches, his worth should have been substantial.


    "Such reckless behavior, not cherishing the body it inhabited at all."


    "Hmm? Chen Fuhai was over a hundred years old, his body''s potential average, at most he would achieve Fake-Dan."


    Lan Chang''an suspected that "The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu" had transferred to a new host. Even the plundered wealth seemed to have followed it. The new host could be among the Foundation Establishment cultivators who participated in the chase.


    Given the number of involved forces and cultivators, it would be difficult to investigate.


    Lan Chang''an thought from another perspective:


    If he were The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, when transferring to a new host, he would first rule out the geniuses with earth spiritual roots. Such talents were highly regarded by their sects and closely watched, thus posing a higher risk of being exposed.


    Secondly, it was best not to inhabit a cultivator from me Departing Pce. me Departing Pce had Nascent Soul True Monarch powers and powerful Core Formation cultivators with formidable methods. For this secret realm opening, only a few earth spiritual root cultivators hade.


    For the transfer, the target should be rtively young, with decent potential and high-grade spiritual roots, to minimize risk.


    Additionally, Lan Chang''an suspected that The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu might possess a method to evade inspection of the harvest. Otherwise, any valuable items transferred out of the secret realm would be scrutinized by immortals from the major forces present.


    Before parting, Lan Chang''an transmitted a message to Zhao Siyao:


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, I''ll repair that damaged turtle puppet for you free of charge."


    Earlier, Zhao Siyao had insisted on only epting half the price in spirit stones for their transaction. Feeling indebted, Lan Chang''an wanted to make up for it.


    Perhaps, the puppets and talismans he provided to Zhao Siyao saved the other party''s life at a critical moment. But essentially, their previous transactions were fair coborations, with no real debt owed.


    "Okay." This time, Zhao Siyao didn''t object and handed a storage pouch to Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    The entrance to the secret realm had about half a day left before closing.


    The Yuxiao Immortal from me Departing Pce had already returned.


    In fact, he was only just putting on a show. Once everything was settled, he needed to return to me Departing Pce and exin himself to thew enforcement elder.


    Through Zhao Siyao, Lan Chang''an learned about the death of Xia Fan, who was the grandson of thew enforcement elder.


    Thew enforcement elder of me Departing Pce had peakte Core Formation cultivation, and his strength, background, and authority all surpassed Lan Chang''an''s second life.


    In the same realm, cultivators from families were naturally half a step behind the ones from sects, and being able to stand their ground against those below their level was considered qualified.


    Chen Fuhai, in the secret realm, acted like a shit-stirrer and was suspected of attacking Xia Fan of me Departing Pce.


    To Lan Chang''an, it felt like The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu deliberately stirred up chaos to achieve its own goals.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an examined the two jade slips from Zhao Siyao and the others, digesting the information within.


    Within them was the information on resource owners he was interested in.


    Some resource owners were not easy to approach, such as thete Foundation Establishment cultivator from me Departing Pce, who had high status.


    There was also a female cultivator from Xuan Yin Pavilion. If Lan Chang''an approached rashly, it could easily be misunderstood.


    Xuan Yin Pavilion''s female cultivators were outstanding in appearance and temperament, proficient in melodies, they were beneficial as dual cultivation partners as well and often had suitors behind them.


    Lan Chang''an prioritized information on non-sect cultivators, preferably loose Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "Xiang Jinglong, suspected to have harvested the most among loose Foundation Establishment cultivators in this secret realm opening, obtained the main ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pill, second-rank Life Extension Pill, and a special second-rank monster core."


    "Zhou Qingxuan, a female Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Beast Taming Zhou Family, gained significant harvests in the secret realm through her beast-taming talent. Suspected to have obtained magic treasure materials and auxiliary herbs for Core Formation."


    "Hu Zhou, a cultivator from Jin Yun Valley, obtained a natural magic treasure embryo, likely to be submitted to the sect or acquired by an elder."


    ...


    Lan Chang''an reviewed dozens of pieces of intelligence, ruling out most targets.


    He nned to first approach "Xiang Jinglong" to see if he could privately trade the main ingredient for the second-rank Life Extension Pill. This person''s special monster core could serve as the main material for Foundation Establishment pills. So if he wasn''t too strict, it was worth a try as well.


    Lan Chang''an had about seventy percent of the materials for a Foundation Establishment pill. If he could gather the remaining materials, refining two or three Foundation Establishment pills could bring a substantial fortune.


    Xiang Jinglong, withte Foundation Establishment cultivation, had a fierce reputation among the wandering cultivators in the Liang Kingdom.


    On a leveled sand dune, Lan Chang''an found him. Xiang Jinglong appeared about forty years old, robust, with tanned arms exposed, and sharp and bright eyes, sitting on the dune.


    Nearby, five or six Foundation Establishment cultivators weremunicating with him, discussing details via spiritual sense transmission.


    Outside the secret realm, there were many cultivators like Lan Chang''an waiting to purchase resources. Some of them were representatives from merchant forces orrge stores.


    One of them, an elderly man with flowery whiskers had just finishedmunicating with Xiang Jinglong. Thetter shook his head, seemingly dissatisfied with the old man''s request.


    "Fellow Daoist Xiang."


    Lan Chang''an cupped his hands in greeting, and seeing Xiang Jinglong looking at him, he transmitted:


    "My surname is Lan. I''m looking to purchase the main ingredient for the second-rank Life Extension Pill and the special monster core on behalf of an alchemist friend. I wonder how we can make a deal?"


    "So it''s Fellow Daoist Lan. I, Xiang, know of you."


    Xiang Jinglong''s voice was deep, his expression calm.


    Earlier, Lan Chang''an had interacted twice with two Foundation Establishment cultivators from Jin Yun Valley, so he hadn''t disguised himself or changed his appearance¡ªotherwise, it would have seemed suspicious.


    "The main ingredient for the second-rank Life Extension Pill requires at least auxiliary herbs for Core Formation to trade. If there''s a magic treasure embryo or a main ingredient for Core Formation, even better. Xiang can make up the price difference appropriately."


    "As for the special monster core, these two fellow Daoists are also interested. It''s a matter of who bids higher."


    After listening, Lan Chang''an knew the trade wouldn''t be easy.


    Xiang Jinglong was demanding high prices, even for the main ingredient of the second-rank Life Extension Pill, asking for auxiliary herbs for Core Formation and magic treasure embryo was too much. The former were materials to refine the Core Formation Pill and thetter can be used to nurture the embryo of a magic treasure.


    A powerfulte Foundation Establishment cultivator could barely wield a magic treasure embryo, and its power was far stronger than supreme-grade magical weapons. Nurturing a magic treasure embryo in advance meant smooth sailing when advancing to Fake-Dan or True-Dan.


    The longer a cultivator''s life-bound magic treasure was nurtured, the more powerful it would grow to be. Therefore, Lan Chang''an was also on the lookout for a promising magical artifact embryo that was well-suited to him.


    "Forget it."


    Lan Chang''an decided to move on to the next target.


    Xiang Jinglong had a notorious reputation, his character wasn''t well-regarded either.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want to show too much interest in the main ingredient for the second-rank Life Extension Pill. As for the special monster core, he didn''t have an urgent need for Foundation Establishment pills right now either.


    He mainly considered that having seventy percent of the materials could make it convenient to purchase the remaining ones in passing.


    Lan Chang''an bade farewell and turned to leave.


    At that moment, he felt a subtle sense of being watched by the flower-whiskered old man not far away.


    Lan Chang''an had a vague sense of familiarity.


    The other party was at mid-Foundation Establishment level. He quickly scanned with his spiritual sense, blending into the Nine Seal Stele.


    "Unexpectedly, It''s him!"


    The old man''s disguise was seen through by Lan Chang''an, leaving him startled.


    "Alchemist Hua?"


    He didn''t dare to use his spiritual sense for long to avoid catching the attention of distant Core Formation cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that Alchemist Hua''s dealings with Xiang Jinglong were likely for the Life Extension or Youth Retaining pill''s ingredients.


    Especially the Youth Retaining Pill, if sessfully refined, could be used to win favors from high-level female cultivators, as well as the women in the entourages of high-level male cultivators.


    ...


    Before the secret realm entrance closed.


    Lan Chang''an negotiated with five other cultivators from the intelligence. There were wandering cultivators, family cultivators, and sect cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an discovered that due to hisck of disguise, his slight reputation as someone who had reached Foundation Establishment at a rtively advanced age lent him some measure of respect during the negotiations.


    Cultivators who came out of the secret realm were packed full of good things. Using second-rank middle-grade talismans and spirit stones, Lan Chang''an acquired two items he needed.


    Aplete second-rank superior-grade beast skin.


    This alone exceeded several coborations with the Beast Taming Zhou Family, expanding Lan Chang''an''s reserve of second-rank superior-grade talismans.


    And the rare second-rank superior-grade spirit sand stone, which he bought a decent quantity of. This supply of spirit sand stones would suffice for Lan Chang''an to cultivate his body refinement manual to the sixthyer.


    ...


    Shortly after Lan Chang''anpleted the transaction, the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm closed.


    "Once every fifty years..."


    Gazing at the closed passage, a thought crossed Lan Chang''an''s mind.


    Fifty years from now on, if he had the strength of a Fake-Dan, in this secret realm that presented Core Formation opportunities, he could practically walk unhindered as long as he didn''t court death.


    Of course, this was just a fleeting thought.


    Around the secret realm, cultivators from various forces were retreating, with the pressure of the immortals condensing above the clouds.


    Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan departed on Jin Yun Valley''s enormous golden boat.


    Lan Chang''an, as a loose Foundation Establishment cultivator, flew at a low altitude, returning the way he came.


    The flying magic treasures of Core Formation cultivators far outpaced the rest, and in no time they were gone.


    Lan Chang''an flew south towards the gorge of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Hmm?


    Half a dayter, Lan Chang''an frowned, sensing a tail behind him.


    It was a gray-robed, hooded person in disguise.


    "Alchemist Hua?"


    Lan Chang''an was surprised.


    Who gave this person the courage to target him alone?


    Although mid Foundation Establishment could overpower early-stage, killing wasn''t guaranteed without an ambush.


    He merged his mind into the Nine Seal Stele, scanning a vast area around him.


    He couldn''t help but let out an "eh?"


    "Interesting..."


    The tail had a tail too?

 Chapter 126: A Perfect Opportunity

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Over these years, he had nurtured many treasure talismans, and with the second life imprint of the Nine Seal Stele illuminated, Lan Chang''an no longercked the ability to kill Alchemist Hua.


    What hecked was an opportunity to clear himself of suspicion, which required a scapegoat appearing at the right moment. Otherwise, even if he killed Alchemist Hua without leaving any evidence, Fu Xuemei might still suspect him.


    Today, Lan Chang''an finally met such an opportunity. He didn''t know what made Alchemist Hua confident enough to target him, but this man was undoubtedly alone.


    While Alchemist Hua''s attention remained fixed on Lan Chang''an, he failed to notice that he himself had also be the target of a vicious cultivator at Late Foundation Establishment.


    Lan Chang''an, Alchemist Hua, and thete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator were roughly in a straight line.


    Earlier, there had been a team led by a Core Formation cultivator flying overhead, so all three were flying at a low altitude.


    As they approached the ck Fog Mountain Range, the surrounding peaks were undting, making the view not so open.


    This led to a situation where Alchemist Hua was watching Lan Chang''an, and thete Foundation Establishment cultivator was only seeing Alchemist Hua.Only Lan Chang''an noticed both people behind him.


    Slowly, Lan Chang''an lowered his flight altitude, weaving between the peaks and valleys below, where the thick vegetation provided some cover.


    ¡°Hmm!¡±


    After circling a few mountain peaks, Alchemist Hua lost track of Lan Chang''an and used his spiritual sense to search.


    In suchplex terrain, it wasmon to asionally lose sight of one''s target. This had happened to Alchemist Hua several times before and he usually found his target quickly. This time, however, after nearly ten breaths, he still saw no sign of anyone, which was a bit odd.


    ¡°Has he discovered me, or did I just lose him?¡± Alchemist Hua found it strange.


    This time when he saw Lan Chang''an, and the other party was alone, he had a sudden urge to kill.


    This was mainly for two reasons.


    First, Lan Chang''an and Senior Brother Lin Ye were both at Wuqi Mountain. Lin Ye held a grudge against Alchemist Hua, as thetter had sort of stolen the former''s childhood sweetheart.[1]


    Upon learning of this, Alchemist Hua became somewhat paranoid, suspecting that his assassination attempt back then had something to do with the two of them.


    Secondly, upon this encounter, Lan Chang''an''s cultivation progress was not as slow as expected, and his connections weren''t bad either, he dealt with a number of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an was younger than him, and if his cultivation and talisman skills continued improving further, it would be a grave threat if he teamed up with Senior Brother Lin Ye.


    ¡°As long as I catch him, Lan Chang''an is dead!¡±


    Alchemist Hua, disguised as a gray-robed, straw-hat man, was filled with murderous intent and confidence.


    At this moment, in the wilderness a li or two behind him, a nimble middle-aged man flew low through the mountain wilderness, draped in a thinyer of green gauze that made him blend seamlessly into the surroundings, steadily closing the gap between them.


    The green gauze not only reduced his presence but also isted his mana fluctuations and sound.


    ¡°A great opportunity, this fat sheep is all alone.¡±


    The sturdy middle-aged man was Xiang Jinglong, a fierce cultivator from Liang''s loose cultivator circle.


    Xiang Jinglong had set his eyes on Alchemist Hua because the other party was wealthy, being able to buy the main ingredient for Youth Retaining Pill and a special demon core from him.


    Alchemist Hua was flying alone in the wilderness with a pensive look, wasn''t this giving him an opportunity to strike?


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± Alchemist Hua suddenly looked back towards the other side of the mountain peak.


    He had just sensed a piercing gaze that seemed to be filled with killing intent. This feeling was too obvious; it was as if someone was staring straight at his back, unintentionally releasing murderous intent.


    ¡°This old geezer, his senses aren''t bad.¡±


    Xiang Jinglong, who was hiding at the back, was stunned. He had thought that he could still get a little closer.


    Either way, they were currently in the middle of nowhere, so he donned a ck mask and boldly charged forth with a big grin.


    ¡°Old fool! Hand over your storage pouch, and I''ll spare your dog life!¡±


    Xiang Jinglong''s figure left a trail of afterimages, creating a whirlwind as he approached Alchemist Hua.


    Xiang Jinglong had stood out in the secret realm, bing the biggest winner among the loose cultivators, and his strength was superior to mostte Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    He was born with immense strength and practiced body refining on the side. Though he didn¡¯t have much time to invest in it, his body wasparable to a mid-grade second-rank demonic beast.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Xiang Jinglong wielded a supreme-grade magical weapon, a blue crystal broadsword, which created a chilling wind with its de.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong! How dare you rob me.¡±


    Alchemist Hua shouted angrily and quickly summoned a banner made of adamantine material. As it struck the ground, a golden film of light covered him within a zhang radius.


    ¡°Tricks of the trade!¡±


    Xiang Jinglong, as ate-stage Foundation Establishment, his mana was twice as strong, and the power of the supreme-grade magical weapon was utilized to the extreme.


    ng! Thud!


    The blue crystal broadsword and a pair of iron fists cracked the golden light shield.


    Alchemist Hua''s face changed, and he hastily activated two superior-grade second-rank talismans, one for defense and one for attack.


    A solid earthen shield enveloped his body, providing an extrayer of protection.


    A giant lightning serpent charged towards Xiang Jinglong, shing with the blue crystal broadsword, sending sparks and icy winds flying.


    The situation was temporarily stabilized.


    Alchemist Hua quickly took out a ck bottle and swallowed a reddish-brown pill.


    In a few breaths, his mana rose by arge margin, approaching thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Instantly, the golden light shield formed by the adamantine banner became bright again.


    Not only that.


    Alchemist Hua then summoned a supreme-grade offensive magical weapon, a gourd that spewed explosive fireballs,unching a powerful counterattack.


    A hundred zhang away, hiding in the shadows of the trees, Lan Chang''an revealed a hint of surprise.


    ¡°This old guy, no wonder he dared toe alone to kill me?¡±


    Alchemist Hua was well-equipped, possessing two supreme-grade magical weapons and multiple superior-grade second-rank talismans.


    The secret pill he took increased his mana by more than fifty percent and it wasn''t the type with great side effects.


    Lan Chang''an had just worried that Alchemist Hua would be easily taken down by Xiang Jinglong¡¯s attack. In that case, it might as well have been Lan Chang''an who killed the man himself; either way, Fu Xuemei would likely get suspicious.


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s strength was something even Lan Chang''an had difficulty dealing with. Thus, he had used a minor spiritual sense spell to stimte Alchemist Hua''s back, making him realize that there was someone behind him.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong, you¡¯re courting death, attacking in broad daylight!¡± Alchemist Hua shouted, trying to alert nearby cultivators.


    Even with the secret pill, he could only contend with Xiang Jinglong for a short time, and was still not his match.


    ¡°Hahaha! I¡¯ll finish you off within ten breaths. Who wille rescue you in time?¡±


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s attacks grew more ferocious, wearing down Alchemist Hua¡¯s magical weapons and breaking talisman after talisman.


    Though masked, Xiang Jinglong''s identity was revealed by Alchemist Hua, but as long as he swiftly defeated the enemy, there would be no evidence linking him to the crime afterward.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense detected that there were cultivators several li away who sensed the battle over here and stopped to take a look but dared not approach.


    Such fierce fighting could be vaguely felt by a Foundation Establishment cultivator dozens of li away.


    He secretly sent a push, using his powerful spiritual sense to wrap the sound and send it miles away.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong is attacking Alchemist Hua of Huanglong Immortal City!¡±


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong killed Alchemist Hua, everyone steer clear.¡±


    ...


    The voice was directed at a fixed location far away.


    Alchemist Hua and Xiang Jinglong were engaged in the fight, making it difficult for them to hear clearly over the sounds of battle.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong, you¡¯re asking for death!¡± Alchemist Hua, driven to desperation, said through gritted teeth, his voice icy cold.


    He took out a talisman from his storage pouch, thicker and slightlyrger than ordinary talismans. This talisman depicted a lifelike bronze spear, radiating an aura that struck fear into the hearts of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    ¡°Talismanic treasure!¡± Xiang Jinglong cried out with rm, falling back rapidly.


    Hidden in the distance, Lan Chang''an''s heart also skipped a beat.


    Alchemist Hua was worthy of being a superior second-rank alchemist who had befriended the upper echelons and operated for a great many decades in Huanglong Immortal City. He could even take out a deadly weapon like a talismanic treasure.


    Lan Chang''an finally understood how Alchemist Hua mustered up the courage toe kill him alone.


    With such a trump card, not to mention an early Foundation Establishment cultivator, even mid tote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators were doomed for death.


    ¡°Alchemist Hua, let¡¯s call it a day!¡±


    Xiang Jinglong was sweating profusely, retreating while summoning a supreme-grade defensive magical weapon and pping two superior-grade second-rank talismans on his body.


    He was extremely frustrated, thinking, ¡°If you had this talismanic treasure, why didn¡¯t you use it earlier?¡±


    ¡°Ruined my ns!¡±


    Alchemist Hua was furious, the bronze spear on the surface of the talisman in his hand radiated the aura of a magical treasure and looked about to fly away, but then settled down.


    Talismanic treasuresy between ordinary talismans and full-fledged magical treasures; the difficulty of controlling and guiding them was greater, and activating them took longer than normal talismans.


    Xiang Jinglong was stronger than most who had reached the Late Foundation Establishment, and he possessed plenty of experience. He immediately distanced himself from Alchemist Hua, throwing everything he had into defense mode.


    In this situation, a single strike from an entry-level talismanic treasure could not guarantee an instant kill, at best, it would result in severe injury.


    It couldn''t kill Xiang Jinglong in one blow, but he immediately escaped fearing that it could. Thus, Alchemist Hua seeded in scaring off his opponent.


    This talismanic treasure of his could be activated no more than once or twice, and he didn''t wish to waste it so easily.


    "Get lost!" Alchemist Hua shouted, pushing Xiang Jinglong away as his mood worsened further.


    After Xiang Jinglong stirred things up like this, both his identity and intentions were exposed, and the nearby Lan Chang''an must have already discovered them.


    Going forward, Lan Chang''an was bound to be wary of him, making it difficult to find such a good opportunity again.


    ...


    After the earlier battle, Alchemist Hua was weak as a result of consuming the secret pill to enhance his mana, so he took two pills to recover fully.


    Once recovered, he no longer hid his identity, and he flew south towards the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    "Alchemist Hua''s de is still sharp, he sessfully drove off that viin Xiang Jinglong with a single sword."


    Nearby, some Foundation Establishment cultivators who recognized Alchemist Hua stepped forward to greet him.


    Alchemist Hua showed little interest in cultivators from small forces; he only offered a few perfunctory words before speeding on toward Huanglong Immortal City.


    "Very well, there is now a suspect." The corner of Lan Chang''an''s lips lifted slightly as he tailed Alchemist Hua behind his back.


    If Xiang Jinglong easily defeated Alchemist Hua, or if he attempted to swoop in to capitalize on the situation, neither would achieve the desired effect.


    After flying a certain distance, Alchemist Hua reached the edge of the ck Fog Mountain Range, the ck Blood Road opened up by the ancient cultivatorsy beyond.


    Through the ck Blood Road, one could reach Huanglong Immortal City at the other end. This location wasn''t the same spot as the valley passageway where Lan Chang''an had entered through.


    On the ck Blood Road, there were also cases of cultivators attempting to rob others.


    Alchemist Hua slowed down his speed.


    As he approached, mist filled his field of vision. A woman with long violet hair, delicate as an orchid blooming in a secluded valley, stepped out from within it: her icy skin and proud bearing unmistakable.


    "Miss Fu."


    Alchemist Hua unconsciously squeezed out a smile, slightly ttering.


    "No! This is an illusion!" He jolted awake, biting down on his tongue and operating his cultivaion technique, while also spreading out his spiritual sense.


    The mist before him and Fu Xuemei instantly dissipated.


    Boom!


    With the illusion shattered, his mind was severely damaged, leaving him paralyzed for a breathless moment.


    In the following instant, spell fluctuations that were nearly at the Fake-Dan level swirled above his head.


    A spiral of greenish wind des rolled, imitating a ten-odd zhang green dragon, piercing through the upper half of Alchemist Hua''s body.


    "Ah..."


    Alchemist Hua let out a mangled scream, his upper body riddled with countless bloodstains, splintered beyond recognition.


    He had no time to summon his magical weapons or the talismanic treasure.


    "I overestimated you; You didn''t bring any soul path defense treasures," said a cold young man standing nearby, as he reached across the air to take hold of the storage pouch at the waist of the half-broken corpse.


    At the same time, another hand activated a second-rank Demonic Qi Talisman.


    A cloud of demonic energy struck into the remaining roll of green wind des and stirred into Alchemist Hua''s corpse again.


    In order to ensure a clean kill and prevent Alchemist Hua from summoning his talismanic treasure, Lan Chang''an deployed a second-rank superior-grade Heart-Illusion Talisman, a divine sense attack under the enhancement of the first life soul imprint, as well as a treasure talisman that had been nurtured for many years.


    "Such powerful mana fluctuations, close to Fake-Dan!!"


    Spell movements of this level could be sensed by the Foundation Establishment cultivators nearly a hundred li from the entrance of the ck Blood Road.


    "Demonic energy? Could it be Liang Shaotian''s sect?"


    Cultivators who were slightly closer sensed the demonic aura emanating from the site of the incident.


    "I heard that Liang Shaotian''s disciple, ''Li Hai'', made a big mess and escaped from the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, could it be..."


    "Not good! Run!"


    The cultivators who sensed the disturbance did not dare approach but retreated in panic instead.


    At the scene of the crime, the cold young man remained only a few breaths of time.


    Whoosh!


    His figure darted swiftly like an arrow as he scurried into the ck Fog Mountain Range, swallowed by the fog that impeded spiritual sense.


    [1] Yep, this was a TL error, Lin Ye is the senior brother, not Hua.

 Chapter 127: A Surprising Harvest

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Two hourster.


    In a mountain ravine within the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    "The suspect is there, and so is the evil murderer. Now, they can''t possibly suspect me, a harmless old man focused on cultivating peacefully."


    Lan Chang''an, seeming like a piece of dead wood, leaned against a stone wall, reflecting on this operation to check for any oversights.


    Xiang Jinglong had previously shed with Alchemist Hua and attempted to kill and rob him of his treasures, only to be frightened away by the talismanic treasure.


    Xiang Jinglong had every motive to kill, making him a prime suspect.


    Although Alchemist Hua had a talismanic treasure, Xiang Jinglong wasn''t an ordinaryte Foundation Establishment cultivator. So long as the ambush was well-executed, it would leave the dead man no chance to activate their talismanic treasure.


    Having just one suspect made Lan Chang''an uneasy. Perhaps Xiang Jinglong could provide an alibi or various defenses. Therefore, he dragged Liang Shaotian''s faction into the mix.Liang Shaotian''s eldest disciple, Li Hai, had caused quite a ruckus in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, something that had happened just recently in full view of everyone.


    For this type of evil cultivators to kill and loot in the secret realm, and ughtering a fat alchemist outside in passing, there was no need to look for any logic or motive.


    The means of the murder pointed to an evil cultivator, and the suspect was the notorious Xiang Jinglong. The situation was chaotic and hard to untangle.


    "Alchemist Hua was ultimately just a loose cultivator who curried favor with the upper echelons, and is not from the direct lineage of Huanglong Mountain." Lan Chang''an mused.


    Alchemist Hua''s murder had suspects and scapegoats, and it was unlikely that the bigwigs would bother to investigate deeply for him, an outsider.


    Whether it was Alchemist Hua or Huanglong Mountain, both had plenty of potential enemies.


    The direct lineage of Huanglong Mountain consisted of only three Immortals, managing a vast immortal city while facing various challenges and adversaries. They had no time to spare.


    Huanglong Immortal City has been on a decline in recent years.


    This time, the secret realm opening cost the Huanglong Immortal three mid-tote Foundation Establishment elites, adding to the woes.


    Lan Chang''an had sensed earlier that Huanglong Immortal had only about ny years of lifespan left, and was already past his prime, with his strength in a stage of decline.


    Against this backdrop, striking Alchemist Hua now was more opportune than twenty years ago.


    ...


    "A talismanic treasure... a main ingredient for Youth Retaining Pill... a special demon core..."


    Lan Chang''an counted the items in Alchemist Hua''s storage pouch, his eyes bright with delight.


    The spoils from killing Alchemist Hua gave him a big surprise.


    The talismanic treasure was a deadly weapon at the Foundation Establishment Realm, and it could likely be activated twice more.


    The main ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pill and the special demon core seemed to have been sold to Alchemist Hua by Xiang Jinglong, who then set his eyes on the former after the deal.


    These two items were key ingredients for the Youth Retaining Pill and the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Even after buying these two items, Alchemist Hua''s storage pouch still contained two to three thousand spirit stones.


    Two supreme-grade magical weapons, one for attack and one for defense.


    Two second-rank pill furnaces, one of which was top superior-grade.


    Arge batch of medicinal herbs for alchemy.


    The most valuable items were those numerous bottles and jars.


    Lan Chang''an roughly estimated that there were twenty to thirty bottles of second-rank pills.


    Among them, two bottles were particrly valuable.


    "Two Jade Clear Pills, aids in breaking through the bottleneck to advance to the mid stage of Foundation Establishment."


    "Three Blood Yang Pills, they can significantly enhance a Foundation Establishment cultivator''s mana for a short period. The side effect is the loss of vital energy, the body will be weak for a while, but with timely recuperation, it won''t harm the foundation."


    Jade Clear Pills were considered breakthrough pills for mid-stage Foundation Establishment, highly sought after by many cultivators, such as Mu Renlong back in the day.


    However, these pills meant little to Lan Chang''an.


    Based on his Qi-Refining stage experience, with his foundation of the Evergreen Technique, this kind of minor bottlenecks would be easily ovee in due time.


    The Blood Yang Pills, which boosted mana, were somewhat useful to Lan Chang''an.


    "In Xiang Jinglong''s hands, there is still the main ingredient for the second-rank Life Extension Pill. Alchemist Hua didn''t buy it, so he should have taken a second-rank Life Extension Pill before." Lan Chang''an spected.


    Alchemist Hua likely bought the main ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pill to curry favor with higher-ups and climb up the hierarchy.


    ...


    After counting the loot and destroying unidentifiable items, Lan Chang''an took a slight detour around the outskirts of the ck Fog Mountain Range and reached the valley passageway on the west side, the same route he had originallye by.


    Then, Lan Chang''an used a second-rank eleration talisman, returning to Wuqi Mountain within normal travel time.


    Whoosh!


    From within Wuqi Mountain flew a dignified woman dressed in pale moonlight robes.


    "Fairy Shi."


    Lan Chang''an gave a greeting.


    "Talisman Master Lan." Shi Manrong nodded, pausing for a brief chat.


    Their rtionship was now akin to ordinary Daoist friends, with an additional hint of subtle indescribable nuance.


    This stemmed from two years ago, when Shi Manrong mentioned the will she''d drafted before losing consciousness.


    At the time, Lan Chang''an felt surprised but only believed about sixty to seventy percent of her ount, so he pretended not to know anything and brushed it aside as inconsequential.


    Fortunately, Shi Manrong didn''t pursue the matter further, choosing instead to look forward rather than dwell on the past.


    "Fairy Shi, where are you headed?" Lan Chang''an casually asked.


    "Huanglong Immortal City." Shi Manrong didn''t hide it and flew off.


    Shi Manrong, who had lost part of her memory, hadn''t changed much overall. She remained dignified and graceful, with a in yet noble demeanor.


    The difference was that she no longer disyed any enchanting or ambiguous behavior towards Lan Chang''an.


    Additionally, she had be more optimistic and career-driven and often went out to set up formations.


    ...


    Back at Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an took afortable bath.


    This trip to the secret realm yielded third-rank spirit wood, third-rank ck iron crystal, and ck inkstone, slightly exceeding expectations.


    Encountering Alchemist Hua, sessfully taking revenge, and gaining the amazing harvest was an unexpected blessing.


    Killing Alchemist Hua, the revenge for obstructing his dao path was considered half-solved.


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an asked Guan Qiaozhi to assist him in creating talisman embryos for treasure talismans from the mid third-rank "Purple Radiant Spirit Wood."


    Both Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun were skilled enough to assist with this task. However, Lan Chang''an trusted Guan Qiaozhi more.


    After removing the dead skin and non-spiritual parts, the remaining Purple Radiant Spirit Wood could produce seven or eight talisman embryos of treasure talismans.


    "A third-rank mid-grade base material would be a waste with my current level of cultivation and talisman art."


    Lan Chang''an mentally prepared himself to craft a talisman embryo and draw a treasure talisman first. This kind of base talisman paper made from high-quality materials, could be used to draw third-rank talismans.


    Due to being limited by his cultivation, Lan Chang''an could only "downgrade" his drawing, and aim to be as close to third rank as possible.


    In the end, the first treasure talisman he drew reached quasi third-rank level, with powerparable to an entry-level talismanic treasure.


    Each time he drew talismans, Lan Chang''an summoned the soul imprint of his first life, this process was repeated every two months.


    "It''s a bit of a waste, but it can be continuously nurtured, so there''s great potential for growth." Lan Chang''an decided to stop here.


    He nned to draw only three such downgraded quasi third-rank treasure talismans.


    The remaining "Purple Radiant Spirit Wood" would be sealed and periodically nourished with the Evergreen Technique to maintain its vitality and spirituality.


    When his cultivation reached thete Foundation Establishment, he would attempt to draw a genuine third-rank treasure talisman.


    ...


    Three monthster, Alchemist Lin Ye from Little Pill Peak paid him a visit.


    Lan Chang''an knew why he hade.


    Lin Ye had more silver strands in his hair, and his slightly withered face showed reddish blotches.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, have you heard of Hua Heng''s death?" Having just taken his seat, he uttered the good news with an expression that lookedplicated.


    There was a sense of satisfaction and relief, but after that, from the depths of his eyes came a trace of emptiness and destion.


    "Alchemist Hua is dead?"


    Lan Chang''an''s expression was slightly shaken, the water in his teacup rippling.


    Alchemist Hua had died near the entrance to the ck Blood Road, where Lan Chang''an had left him with half a stump of his body at that time.


    Several months passed before word finally settled, as Lan Chang''an had expected.


    "Fellow Daoist Lin, how did Alchemist Hua die?" Lan Chang''an asked in disbelief.


    Lin Ye watched his expression closely throughout this process.


    "There is no definitive conclusion yet. Rumor has it that the culprit might be from Liang Shaotian''s lineage.


    "Additionally, the notorious wandering cultivator Xiang Jinglong, known for his heinous acts, is also suspected. He had shed with Hua Heng beforehand."


    "Has Huanglong Immortal City not pursued or issued a warrant for Xiang Jinglong?" Lan Chang''an regained hisposure and asked rationally.


    "No."


    Lin Ye''s face flushed with a touch of mockery as heughed coldly, "After my junior''s death, his wives, concubines, children, as well as his disciples, were all busy fighting over his inheritance."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an was silent for a moment.


    Alchemist Hua''s death, with even his family and disciples not keen on investigating or avenging him, how could they expect outsiders to help wholeheartedly?


    Even if there was some kindness, Alchemist Hua likely fell to Liang Shaotian''s lineage, how would they go about seeking revenge?


    The suspect, Xiang Jinglong, was also a vicious man whose strength exceeds the ordinaryte Foundation Establishment and he might even be a Fake-Dan cultivator.


    The Huanglong Immortal City had long since fallen from its former glory days. If there was no need, they wouldn''t want to provoke such a ruthless and unattached rogue cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an felt relieved.


    The matter of Alchemist Hua''s death hade to an end.


    Even in the worst-case scenario, where Fu Xuemei remained paranoid and still had a trace of suspicion towards Lan Chang''an, as long as the two big mountains, Liang Shaotian''s faction and Xiang Jinglong, were set at the front, she wouldn''t be able to make any reasonable ims against Lan Chang''an to sway the Immortals of the Huanglong Mountain lineage.


    An earth spirit root genius who had not grown up would indeed be valued by the Huanglong Immortal, but they did not hold as much influence as imagined.


    Lan Chang''an had heard that back then, Fu Xuemei had displeased the Huanglong Immortal by helping her brother without regard for consequences, so her supply of resources was cut off for a period of time.


    As for Fu Xuemei seeking revenge personally? Lan Chang''an wasn''t worried in the slightest.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Hua Heng was killed on the route between the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm and the ck Fog Mountain Range. Didn''t you go to the secret realm as well? Did you not see him there?" Lin Ye inquired.


    His instincts told him something was strange about his junior''s death, and he was filled with a desire to uncover the truth.


    "In the vicinity of the secret realm, I never encountered Alchemist Hua, nor had I heard anyone mention that he hade," Lan Chang''an replied, shaking his head.


    At that time, Alchemist Hua had disguised his identity, and on the surface, he had indeed never seen him.


    "Oh? No one saw him?" Lin Ye mused, specting that his junior might have been hiding his identity while collecting materials outside the secret realm.


    Looking at the superior-grade second-rank alchemist before him, Lan Chang''an remembered the main ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pill and the special demon core he had obtained from Alchemist Hua''s loot.


    For the former, he only needed to take out the main ingredient and find someone to coborate in refining the Youth Retaining Pill.


    For thetter, he just needed a few more rare auxiliary ingredients toplete the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill and make a considerable profit.


    "However, these two main ingredients are stolen goods. The special demon core is already suspicious, but the main ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pill is even rarer."


    Lan Chang''an was cautious about revealing these items too soon, especially since they were linked to Xiang Jinglong.


    These two ingredients were sold to Alchemist Hua by Xiang Jinglong, and some knew about this transaction. So at least for now, these two items couldn''t be taken out at the same time.


    Unless he finds a trustworthy alchemist who would keep their mouth shut tight to refine these pills discreetly.


    Alchemist Lin was obviously not suitable, this person had a desire to probe into the process of his junior brother''s death.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    A year had passed since the opening of the secret realm.


    The matter of Alchemist Hua''s death was left unsettled, even within Huanglong Immortal City, not many people discussed it.


    Unnoticed by time, Lan Chang''an turned ny-seven years old.


    One day, the Earth Burrowing Rat brought a letter, which was sent by Li Erqing.


    Li Erqing asked when Lan Chang''an was going to organize his hundredth birthday and stated that he woulde to offer congrattions at the time, bringing his children along as well to honor him.


    If it was too much trouble, the Mu Family was willing to help him organize the event.

 Chapter 128: Zhao Master and Disciple

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "A hundred-year-old birthday?"


    Lan Chang''an shook his head with a smile. He had no intention of widely inviting friends and rtives for a grand birthday banquet.


    Reaching a hundred years old is a significant milestone for low-level cultivators. Many Qi-Refining cultivators don''t live to see their hundredth year.


    Various factors such as fighting for one''s life during youth, failing to reach Foundation Establishment, etc. All these actions shortened one''s overall lifespan.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that Li Erqing''s early mention of this was not just to maintain their friendship but also because he was nning a grand celebration for his own centennial birthday.


    In the past, Li Erqing had a penchant for hosting lively banquets whenever he got married or had children.


    Li Erqing was two years younger than Lan Chang''an. If the elder brother did not celebrate his centennial birthday, it would be inappropriate for the younger brother to outshine him.


    Lan Chang''an replied to Li Erqing, exining his situation and advising him not to worry about it.For his centennial birthday, he nned to have a small private celebration in his cave mansion, rather than hosting a grand event.


    Shortly afterward, Lan Chang''an received another letter from Jin Yun Valley.


    "Oh? Zhao Siyao is seeking a Foundation Establishment Pill for her female disciple?" Lan Chang''an''s interest was piqued.


    When Lan Chang''an was undergoing Foundation Establishment in Huanglong Immortal City, Zhao Siyao had mentioned taking in a talented female disciple from her family''s homnd.


    This female disciple, named Zhao Tan''er, was two years younger than Mu Bingyun and had already reached the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining three years ago.


    As a high-grade spiritual root, Zhao Tan''er initially intended to attempt the Foundation Establishment without the pill, believing she had about a 40% chance of sess. However, Zhao Siyao suggested waiting longer to be on the safer side.


    In her letter, Zhao Siyao inquired if Lan Chang''an had any leftover materials from when he was nning for his Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Zhao Siyao had gathered about half of the necessary materials, but stillcked a Xuanling Fruit or a special demon core, among other ingredients.


    "Hmm? This is an opportunity."


    Lan Chang''an had an idea, following the example of when the two pretended to coborate in pill refinement.


    "If we refine the Foundation Establishment Pill in Zhao Siyao''s name, and I secretly provide the special demon core and other materials, it would be much safer."


    This time, Zhao Siyao seeking the Foundation Establishment Pill for her disciple was reasonable and logical.


    Zhao Siyao was trustworthy and could be relied on to keep the secret.


    Zhao Siyao could provide some of the remaining materials, and in return, she would get one of the produced Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Lan Chang''an had already gathered most of the materials for the pill,cking only a few auxiliary herbs, one or two of which were quite rare.


    This approach would save Lan Chang''an from searching for the remaining materials and reduce the risk.


    With this in mind, Lan Chang''an wrote a letter to Zhao Siyao, informing her that he had some materials for the Foundation Establishment Pill and inviting her toe and collect them.


    Given the confidentiality of the matter, it was unsuitable to discuss further details in a letter.


    ...


    A few monthster.


    Two female cultivators in white arrived at Little Turtle Peak.


    One of them, approximately twenty-five or twenty-six years old, had a graceful and elegant demeanor, her celestial robe fluttering as she moved with poise andposure.


    The other young girl had eyebrows like jade feathers and lively eyes, her skin as white as snow, exuding an aura of lightness and vitality.


    "Greetings, Uncle Lan." Zhao Tan''er, with teeth like pearls, greeted crisply.


    "Mm, a good seedling." Lan Chang''an nodded approvingly.


    This girl''s talent was even better than Zhao Siyao''s andparable to his own in his previous life.


    In Zhao Tan''er, Lan Chang''an saw some traces of Zhao Siyao''s youth. In terms of personality, Zhao Tan''er was more lively and less aloof.


    Within less than half an hour of arriving at Little Turtle Peak, Zhao Tan''er had already be familiar with Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun and was ying with the Profound Water Turtle by the pond.


    Inside the cave mansion, Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao spoke privately.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, here is your puppet." Lan Chang''an handed back apletely intact turtle puppet to Zhao Siyao.


    Two years ago, Zhao Siyao encountered danger in the secret realm, leaving her turtle puppet severely damaged. She sold her valuable materials at half their price at that time, so Lan Chang''anter promised to repair the puppet free of cost.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan has gone to great lengths."


    Zhao Siyao stored away the puppet, and found that not only had it been meticulously repaired, its quality had also been upgraded to near mid second-rank, with even stronger defensive capabilities.


    They chatted briefly before Zhao Siyao brought up her ns for this trip: "After purchasing the remaining materials from you, Fellow Daoist Lan, I intend to take my disciple to Huanglong Immortal City for some training in the ck Fog Mountain Range. If we can obtain a special demon core, it would be even better."


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, are you really willing to let such a good seedling take risks?" Lan Chang''an couldn''t help butugh.


    High-grade spiritual root cultivators, as members of a sect and having the elders to take care of them, didn''t need to take such risks.


    Special demon cores were not easy toe by. Back then, Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao, along with the second-rank rat demon, had been lucky and faced many dangers to obtain one.


    "This isn''t my idea." Zhao Siyao smiled, "Tan''er, after hearing about my past experiences in the ck Fog Mountain Range and how her Uncle Lan dared to participate in hunting second-rank demonic beasts while at the peak of Qi-Refining, was quite mesmerized and wanted to follow suit."


    "Ambitious," Lan Chang''an praised.


    "When the timees, I''ll let her control the puppet. As long as we don''t go too deep, it shouldn''t be a problem," Zhao Siyao said, outlining her n.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, perhaps you don''t need to go to the ck Fog Mountain Range..." Lan Chang''an suggested using a voice transmission, mentioning the idea of cooperating to refine the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Upon hearing this, Zhao Siyao was initially surprised, but her eyes quickly lit up before she regained herposure.


    Regarding the special demon core, Lan Chang''an imed it was a stolen good purchased from the ck market and asked her to keep it secret.


    They would use Zhao Siyao''s name for the pill refinement. With her intelligence, Zhao Siyao naturally understood theplexity of the situation.


    After the battle in the ck Fog Mountain Range back then, coupled with advancing to Foundation Establishment at an elderly age, she knew that Lan Chang''an was not an ordinary cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, who do you n to hire for the alchemy? I''ve heard that alchemist Lin on Wuqi Mountain has good skills," Zhao Siyao inquired.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t answer directly but instead asked:


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, you should also know some alchemists, right?"


    "In Jin Yun Valley, there''s a second-rank superior-grade alchemist who has a good rtionship with me. I can ask him to help privately," Zhao Siyao said.


    Unlike in the past, after spending decades in the Foundation Establishment, Zhao Siyao counted as a senior among the elders in Jin Yun Valley, and she had built up a respectablework of connections over the years.


    The alchemist she knew was adept at making Foundation Establishment Pills and could usually produce three pills in one batch.


    "Wouldn''t asking him for help vite sect rules?"


    Zhao Siyao replied, "As long as the main ingredients and auxiliary materials are not sourced through the sect, it''s not considered a vition."


    "That''s good."


    They discussed some more details. Unexpectedly, Zhao Siyao still intended to take her disciple to the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    After a few months of training, they would return to collect the materials from Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an understood that Zhao Siyao''s n was not only to temper her disciple but also to create a cover for him, providing a usible source for the special demon core.


    Half a dayter, Zhao Siyao and her disciple left Little Turtle Peak.


    Zhao Tan''er was a bit reluctant to part, waved goodbye to the Profound Water Turtle and the two girls, Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    Zhao Siyao returned with her disciple from training and stopped by Little Turtle Peak again.


    During this trip, Zhao Siyao didn''t obtain a special demon core from the ck Fog Mountain Range. They had only acted in the outer areas, killing a not-so-powerful second-rank demonic beast.


    Since they didn''tck a special demon core, there was no need for her to take risks, and a bit of training sufficed for polishing her disciple.


    This time, Zhao Siyao brought some information:


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, on this trip to the ck Fog Mountain Range, we noticed an unusual increase in demonic beasts in the outer regions. Some inner mountain beast groups have migrated to the outer areas. In a few years, this might lead to a small beast tide."


    "A small beast tide?"


    Given the distance between Wuqi Mountain, where Lan Chang''an resided, and the ck Fog Mountain Range, there was no immediate concern.


    For him, this wasn''t necessarily bad news.


    If a beast tide urred, the sects in the cultivation world of Liang and the forces near the ck Fog Mountain Range would organize defenses and kill the beasts.


    The more demonic beasts hunted, the lower the price of talisman materials, making it easier to purchase high-quality materials.


    The price of ordinary talismans might drop slightly, but Lan Chang''an focused on high-end products.


    Moreover, with his long lifespan, he could stockpile some medium to high-quality materials during the low-price period to ensure stable long-term profits.


    Before parting, Lan Chang''an handed over the Foundation Establishment Pill materials, including the special demon core, to Zhao Siyao. He did not apany her to Jin Yun Valley.


    Having chosen to trust her, he entrusted Zhao Siyao with the entire matter.


    Aside from believing in Zhao Siyao''s integrity, these Foundation Establishment Pill materials were windfalls that fell unexpectedly into hisp. Even if he lost them, the impact wouldn''t be significant.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Mu Bingyun seemed anxioustely, asionally appearing distracted. During one preparatory task for talisman drawing, she made a small mistake as well.


    In the pavilion by the lotus pond.


    Mu Bingyun brought tea, and Lan Chang''an invited her to sit and talk for a bit.


    At Little Turtle Peak, Mu Bingyun was essentially a hired hand.


    By assisting with talisman-making, asionally acting as a maid, and managing the mountain''s affairs, she earned the right to cultivate here and asionally received guidance from Lan Chang''an.


    "Uncle Lan, I want to go out for training and seek opportunities for Foundation Establishment." Mu Bingyun sat cautiously, her slender hands clutching the folds of her skirt.


    "Is this influenced by Zhao Fairy and her disciple?"


    "Bingyun was indeed inspired by them, but the main reason is rted to Feiyue Lake..." Mu Bingyun''s gentle features were marked with worry and unease.


    "Feiyue Lake?" Lan Chang''an pondered.


    Over the years, the faction to which Li Erqing belonged within the Mu Family had grown increasingly powerful.


    The influence and authority of the old faction, to which Mu Bingyun''s family belonged, were on the verge of being surpassed by Li Erqing''s new lineage.


    If no one from the old lineage reached the Foundation Establishment Realm, perhaps the surname of the Feiyue Lake''s Mu Family would really be renamed to Li in the future. Even if they maintained their surname, most likely all power would eventually rest in the hands of Li Erqing''s descendants.


    Mu Bingyun had reached a bottleneck in both her cultivation, which had been at the peak of Qi-Refining for several years, and her talisman-making skills, moving from first to second rank represented a significant leap that was greatly hindered by cultivation level.


    "Regardless of whether it''s Foundation Establishment or bing a second-rank talisman master, you must not rush. If you wish to go out for training, Uncle Lan won''t stop you, but I have some advice." Lan Chang''an spoke calmly.


    "Please continue, Uncle Lan."


    "Yourbat ability is insufficient. Remember the time you were ambushed at Feiyue Lake?"


    Upon hearing this, Mu Bingyun''s eyes dimmed, and she lowered her head in silence.


    "If you wish to go out for training, you should at least be able to defeat the two first-rank superior-grade puppets guarding the mountain, orst a hundred breaths against the Earth Burrowing Rat when it''s suppressed to thete first-rank."


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want to lose the patient he nurtured for many years to the dangers outside. If such a thing happened, he wouldn''t be in a happy mood. Thus, he provided this suggestion.


    "Uncle Lan, I''ll follow your advice." Although Mu Bingyun was in a hurry, she also knew her own weight.


    In the following days, a young woman in a green dress could often be seen battling puppets or the Earth Burrowing Rat on Little Turtle Peak, who was unwavering despite failing miserably time and time again.


    Watching the stubborn and graceful figure, Lan Chang''an mused: with Mu Xiuyun''s savings for her disciple and the old Mu Family faction''s support, it would definitely be no problem to gather the spirit stones to buy a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    ...


    Two monthster, Zhao Siyao returned to Little Turtle Peak.


    Inside the cave mansion, she solemnly handed a jade bottle to Lan Chang''an.


    Opening the bottle, Lan Chang''an found two crystal-colored Foundation Establishment Pills inside.

 Chapter 129: Mid Stage Foundation Establishment

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Thank you for making the trip, Fellow Daoist Zhao."


    Lan Chang''an put away the two Foundation Establishment Pills, feeling quite pleased.


    In this alchemy coboration, three pills were sessfully refined. Lan Chang''an did not attend the process in person.


    If Zhao Siyao had harbored any ulterior motives, she could have easily imed that the alchemist''s performance was average and only two pills were produced, which would have been quite usible.


    The two had known each other since youth, with a friendship spanning eighty years, and the level of trust between them exceeded even familial bonds.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I¡¯ll be heading back now."


    After delivering the pills, Zhao Siyao did not linger and left immediately.


    Lan Chang''an knew she had to protect Zhao Tan''er during her Foundation Establishment.Three monthster.


    Lan Chang''an received a letter from Zhao Siyao, informing him that Zhao Tan''er had sessfully reached Foundation Establishment Realm.


    In the letter, Zhao Siyao expressed her gratitude on behalf of her disciple.


    Lan Chang''an did not tell Mu Bingyun about this news to avoid making her feel any sense of disparity.


    Over these months, Mu Bingyun frequently sparred with the two puppets or the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Through repeated failures, her mindset gradually settled down.


    ...


    Time flew by, and nearly two years passed.


    The usually verdant Little Turtle Peak was now decorated with some festive elements: rednterns, flowers, and couplets.


    In the secret room of the cave mansion.


    "One hundred years old..."


    Lan Chang''an slowly finished his cultivation, feeling that the mana within him was approaching the limit of the early Foundation Establishment stage.


    He estimated that in another two years, he could reach the peak of the early Foundation Establishment stage and attempt to break through to the mid stage.


    After nurturing his treasure talismans, Lan Chang''an left the secret room.


    "Senior Brother Lan, may your days be prosperous and your longevity as enduring as nature."


    "Uncle Lan, I wish you eternal prosperity on your immortal path."


    Guan Qiaozhi and Mu Bingyun had been waiting for a long time, holding trays with birthday pastries, longevity peaches, and longevity flowers.


    "Thank you for your kind words." Lan Chang''an smiled warmly, taking a few bites as a gesture of politeness.


    The cave mansion was adorned with festive elements and was livelier than usual. That day, guests arrived one after another at Little Turtle Peak to celebrate Lan Chang''an¡¯s birthday.


    The two other peak masters from Wuqi Mountain, Fairy Shi and Alchemist Lin, along with the steward Lan Lin, were the first toe over to congratte him.


    Each guest brought gifts of varying value.


    Guan Qiaozhi made a navy-blue robe for Lan Chang''an and Mu Bingyun presented a natural spirit pearl she had nurtured and polished for years. The duo''s gifts were not very expensive, but both of them carried heartfelt sentiments.


    "Bingyun, return to Feiyue Lake." Lan Chang''an instructed, having thought of something.


    "Yes, Uncle Lan."


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s clear eyes were slightly moist as she bowed, gathered some things, and flew away from Little Turtle Peak.


    Watching her departing figure, Lan Chang''an knew that he wasn¡¯t the only one who had to celebrate his hundredth birthday.


    Two years ago, Mu Bingyun had sought a Life Extension Pill from Alchemist Lin, a fact he was aware of.


    By noon, Li Erqing brought his son Mu Ershun and grandson Mu Congren to pay their respects.


    Li Erqing, now portly and with a ruddyplexion, sported a balding head with deep-set eyes that shone with a reserved brilliance. Compared to before, he now carried the authoritative air of a family''s ancestor.


    "Big Brother, I wish you evesting youth on the immortal path." Li Erqing¡¯s eyes rxed, and his lips instinctively curled into a somewhat familiar, simple smile.


    "Uncle Lan..."


    Mu Ershun and Mu Congren bowed in greeting, offering their congrattions.


    Mu Ershun''s body was slightly stooped, already in the mold of an ancient old man, whose actual age was less than twenty years of Lan Chang''an.


    Such an octogenarian bowing to a young-looking man of around twenty was quite a sight.


    Mu Ershun had already seen four generations under one roof.


    If Li Erqing hadn¡¯t brought him this time, Lan Chang''an would hardly have had a chance to meet him in the future.


    Mu Congren looked to be in his twenties, with the appearance of a handsome and poised young man, his eyebrows slightly resembled Li Erqing.


    He was Li Erqing¡¯s most talented grandson, younger than Mu Bingyun and nearing the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Each of Li Erqing¡¯s three generations brought valuable gifts, demonstrating their sincerity.


    ...


    Half an hourter, four strands of Foundation Establishment auras flew in from outside Wuqi Mountain andnded on Little Turtle Peak.


    Two were at the mid stage Foundation Establishment Realm, and two were at the early stage. They were the four Foundation Establishment cultivators from Jin Yun Valley: Zhang Tieshan, Zhao Siyao, Zhao Tan''er, and Lin Lu.


    Lan Chang''an came out to greet them, first greeting his two peers, Zhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an noticed that Zhang Tieshan¡¯s cultivation seemed to be touching thete Foundation Establishment stage, slightly ahead of Zhao Siyao.


    "Uncle Lan, wishing you longevity and eternal youth." Zhao Tan''er¡¯s eyes sparkled as she spoke lightly.


    "Wishing you a long life and robust health, Uncle Lan." Lin Lu respectfully presented his gift.


    "Thank you for your kindness." Lan Chang''an replied simply, without putting on airs.


    Though the two were of lower seniority, their cultivation levels wereparable, with no significant difference in status. Especially Zhao Tan''er, whose smooth cultivation journey might one day surpass Lan Chang''an.


    In the main hall of the cave mansion, steward Lan Lin assigned two maids to help Guan Qiaozhi entertain the guests.


    Lan Chang''an''s birthday banquet was a simple family meal, with no formal invitations. All the attendees were friends, juniors, or neighbors who came voluntarily.


    Some didn¡¯t stay long, like Zhang Tieshan, who left after half an hour, and by evening, most of the guests had also left.


    Li Erqing and his three generations stayed until the end.


    In the study of the cave mansion, Lan Chang''an and Li Erqing had a private conversation.


    "Big Brother, what do you think of the current situation at Feiyue Lake? If I¡¯ve done anything wrong, you can scold me as much as you want." Li Erqing¡¯s eyes flickered with a hint of uncertainty.


    "I have no opinions, you haven¡¯t done anything wrong." Lan Chang''an smiled.


    Li Erqing was surprised by the response. After all, as a son-inw, he now held more sway over the Mu Family than its rightful owners, which could be seen as somewhat unscrupulous from a moral standpoint.


    Lan Chang''an had long detached himself from Feiyue Lake with no lingering ties, including personal sentiments. Comparatively, his personal friendship with Li Erqing was stronger.


    Even if Li Erqing truly took over the Mu Family, it was no big deal, they all shared the Mu Family¡¯s bloodline anyway.


    "By the way, hasn¡¯t the Mu Family produced a new Foundation Establishment cultivator in all these years?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    He and Li Ergou had once discussed that the best way to stabilize Feiyue Lake was for the Mu Family¡¯s main lineage to produce a Foundation Establishment cultivator soon.


    "It¡¯s this little brother''s ipetence." Li Erqing admitted shamefully.


    Years ago, he genuinely intended to cultivate a Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Mu Family¡¯s main lineage. Unfortunately, given the vast amount of his descendants, it was inevitable that he would have to divide the family''s already few resources, making it impossible to focus sufficient effort on the task at hand.


    "If the Mu Family¡¯s main lineage produces a new Foundation Establishment cultivator, what will you do?" Lan Chang''an asked nonchntly.


    He had two Foundation Establishment Pills in hand, but auctioning them off wasn''t suitable; approaching unknown forces carried too many risks and uncertainties. It was safer to trade with familiar forces or cultivators.


    "I am willing to assist." Li Erqing''s tone was firm.


    Lan Chang''an nodded, trusting his words.


    ...


    At night.


    Only Lan Chang''an and Guan Qiaozhi remained in the cave mansion.


    After cleaning the cave with spells, Guan Qiaozhi helped Lan Chang''an bathe.


    Lan Chang''an nced at her, noting her scattered mana, thick but unrefined.


    "You¡¯ve beenx in your cultivation these past few years."


    Normally, after her failed Foundation Establishment attempt nine years ago, if Guan Qiaozhi cultivated diligently, her cultivation would be maintained at the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s hand, scrubbing his back, slightly stiffened. She softly said, "Senior Brother Lan, I¡¯m already sixty-eight years old. My aptitude is dull, and further hard training would be futile. It¡¯s better to serve you and the Profound Water Turtle well..."


    Lan Chang''an was silent for a moment.


    During herst attempt at Foundation Establishment, he had noticed herck of determination and belief.


    If ced in the Illusion Heart tform in Jin Yun Valley, which examined the determination of a person, her ranking would probably have to be at the bottom of the list. Despite this, he had given her a Foundation Establishment Pill, hoping to increase her chances.


    "At sixty-eight, your cultivation is wasted, and you¡¯ve lost your drive..." Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly.


    He asked, "Qiaozhi, you¡¯ve served me for decades. What are your wishes in this life?"


    Adding, "Except for that request."


    Years ago, upon arriving at Little Turtle Peak, Guan Qiaozhi had wished to bear Lan Chang''an''s child. After repeated disappointments, she had given up on that idea.


    "Hmm, let me think about it..." Guan Qiaozhi rested her cheek on her hand, pondering.


    "When some years pass, I want to visit my parents'' hometown and my master¡¯s oldnd to have a look. If there are any orphans, I¡¯d like to help them, as a way of umting good deeds."


    "Alright." Lan Chang''an nodded without furtherment.


    Whether Guan Qiaozhi stayed on Little Turtle Peak or went to the world to enjoy glory and wealth, he would respect her freedom.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Mu Bingyun returned to Little Turtle Peak and first greeted Lan Chang''an.


    "How is your master?"


    "She¡¯s doing well and has taken the Life Extension Pill," Mu Bingyun replied.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t ask further.


    This time, Mu Bingyun seemed more determined, as if something had inspired her.


    Afterpleting her tasks, she immediately went to spar with the Earth Burrowing Rat, which suppressed its power to match hers.


    She couldn¡¯t challenge the puppets too often since they required spirit stones to operate.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was tireless and diligent, and wouldn¡¯t harm her.


    ...


    Little Turtle Peak, time flew by.


    Mu Bingyun''s sweat glistened as she controlled her mana and unleashed her spells, her silhouette gradually bing more fluid, more valiant.


    Until a certain day.


    Bang! Crack!


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s magical weapon, swift as lightning, sessively chopping off the necks and abdomens of the two puppets.


    "I did it!" Her joyous voice echoed across Little Turtle Peak.


    At this moment, her cultivation had reached the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, her essence, energy, and spirit were exuberant.


    "Bingyun, congrattions!" Guan Qiaozhi approached with a smile.


    Seeing the broken remains of the puppets, her brows furrowed with concern, "Bingyun, you¡¯ve damaged Senior Brother Lan¡¯s puppets. ording to the mountain rules, you¡¯ll need topensate with spirit stones."


    Mu Bingyun was stunned and was about to speak when she faintly sensed a powerful surge of mana rising dramatically from within the cave mansion.


    ...


    Inside the cave mansion, in the secret room.


    Lan Chang''an, eyes closed, meditating as the verdant manake within his body expanded by arge margin.


    The mana waves around him exuded vibrant life force, a mystical sense of time, and the fresh scent of nt life.


    "At 102 years old, mid stage Foundation Establishment." After a long while, Lan Chang''an opened his pitch-ck eyes, feeling ted andughing lightly.


    It had taken him thirty-two years to progress from the early to the mid stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Compared to someone with low-grade spiritual roots like Li Erqing, this progress was faster. However, among Foundation Establishment cultivators, this speed was considered to be on the slower side, not taking into ount minor realm bottlenecks.


    This was because most Foundation Establishment cultivators started with mid-grade spiritual roots, and a significant number had high-grade roots.


    Around Lan Chang''an, the Profound Water Turtle greedily sucked in the lingering aura.


    It could be anticipated that as the gap between his cultivation and the turtle¡¯s increased, thetter¡¯s growth in cultivation would further elerate.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense scanned outside the cave mansion, noticing the remains of the two puppets that had been defeated by Mu Bingyun.


    He nodded slightly and got to consolidating his cultivation realm first.


    During this period, Guan Qiaozhi sent him a voice transmission talisman.


    Lan Chang''an grabbed it with a wave of his hands and listened to its contents.


    "Oh, I almost forgot. Li Erqing¡¯s hundredth birthday is being celebrated soon."

 Chapter 130: Different Fates

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Ten dayster, Lan Chang''an had stabilized his realm and officially emerged from seclusion.


    "Congrattions, Senior Brother Lan, your spiritual strength has advanced greatly."


    "Congrattions, Uncle Lan, on your breakthrough."


    Upon exiting the cave mansion, two maids stood by its entrance, offering their congrattions.


    "Bingyun, I have already seen that you defeated the two first-rank superior-grade puppets," Lan Chang''an said with a smile, looking at the slender woman in a green dress.


    "I still can''t beat the Earth Burrowing Rat even with its strength and cultivation suppressed," Mu Bingyun replied softly.


    Then, she somewhat sheepishly took out a bag of spirit stones and lightly bit her vermilion lips, "Uncle Lan, I damaged two puppets. Are these spirit stones enough topensate?"


    Lan Chang''an chuckled and waved his hand, "Keep your spirit stones to fund your Foundation Establishment."Repairing two first-rank puppets wouldn''t cost much.


    Mu Bingyun had passed the test he suggested and now she had to say goodbye.


    "Bingyun, pack your things ande with me to Feiyue Lake to attend Li Erqing''s hundredth birthday," Lan Chang''an instructed.


    "Alright." Mu Bingyun hesitated but eventually nodded.


    She didn''t have a good impression of Li Erqing''s faction. If Lan Chang''an hadn''t said anything, she would have gone out to train and not returned to the Mu Family.


    That day, Lan Chang''an and Mu Bingyun set off for Feiyue Lake on a flying boat.


    Although Lan Chang''an had long since severed ties with the Mu Family, attending Li Erqing''s centenary birthday was due to their more than eighty years of personal friendship.


    "Bingyun, when we return to the family, give this letter to your master," Lan Chang''an said, handing a letter to Mu Bingyun during the journey.


    ...


    Six or seven dayster.


    The vast and misty Feiyue Lake came into view.


    "Big Brother," Li Erqing, dressed in a red ceremonial robe, greeted them first.


    The cultivation world was vast, and time was long¡ªceremonies like Li Erqing''s centenary birthday typicallyst several days to entertain friends and family from afar.


    Lan Chang''an patted Li Erqing''s shoulder, and they flew together to the main hall on Moonheart Ind.


    "Congrattions, Brother, on advancing to the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment," Li Erqing could not hide the surprise on his face as he noticed the change in Lan Changan''s cultivation level.


    A mid Foundation Establishment cultivator''s power far surpassed that of an early Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Back then, Huang Tankong''s presence brought significant deterrence to the Mu Family and the surrounding area.


    Inparison, Li Erqing, due to his lower aptitude and being entangled in family affairs, was still far from reaching the third level of Foundation Establishment.


    Li Erqing''s mood wasplicated, inevitably experiencing a sense of disparity.


    Eighty years ago, both of them started at the same point.


    For the first few decades, Li Erqing always led Lan Chang''an, only being temporarily caught up at the seventhyer of Qi-Refining.


    After breaking through thete-stage bottleneck, he was once again ahead of Lan Chang''an in cultivation, and with the fortune of his children, he obtained a Foundation Establishment Pill first, bing the Mu Family''s Foundation Establishment ancestor.


    However, while Lan Chang''an''s cultivation speed was slow, it was extremely steady and solid. Even after reaching the Foundation Establishment, he continued to progress steadily. Li Erqing, on the other hand, had lost his momentum and ambition.


    ...


    The twonded in front of the main hall on Moonheart Ind.


    "Erqing, this is my gift," Lan Chang''an said, handing a gift box to Li Erqing.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan."


    "Uncle Lan."


    Two familiar Foundation Establishment cultivators, Zhao Siyao and Lin Lu, came to greet them.


    They also noticed Lan Chang''an''s breakthrough, showing some surprise.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you truly are someone who achieves great thingster in life," Zhao Siyao said with a smile, praising him.


    Her mood, however, was anything but calm. Zhao Siyao''s qualifications were much higher, and with the sect at her back, she had always been far ahead of Lan Chang''an and the others.


    However, after the Foundation Establishment Realm, her cultivation advancement, which had been progressing smoothly, had met resistance. Each small level bottleneck took years and months of effort to ovee.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, you tter me. I was merely fortunate," Lan Chang''an said humbly.


    "Perhaps because my foundation is solid and my mindset is good, I found it rtively easy to break through to the mid Foundation Establishment stage after reaching the peak of the early stage."


    Upon hearing this, Zhao Siyao and Lin Lu couldn''t help but ponder.


    Indeed, Lan Chang''an''s over eighty years of cultivation, step by step, had built an incredibly solid foundation. Cultivating oneself, raising turtles, and nting grass, his mindset far exceeded ordinary people.


    "In terms of foundation and mindset, we are not as good as Fellow Daoist Lan," Zhao Siyao admitted frankly.


    She truly realized the gap in this aspect.


    Breaking through minor realms inherently varies from person to person.


    Some cultivators, though not exceptionally gifted, have deep foundations and excellent mindsets, making it easier for them to break through than ordinary cultivators.


    This situation appears more frequently among cultivators who practice life-nurturing techniques.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, after a few more years of polishing, you should have no difficulty advancing to thete Foundation Establishment stage," Lan Chang''an observed, noting that Zhao Siyao had reached the peak of the mid Foundation Establishment.


    "I hope so," Zhao Siyao sighed softly.


    Given the current trend, it seemed unlikely she would advance to thete Foundation Establishment stage before reaching a hundred years of age.


    Fortunately, her expedition to the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm yielded some gains and was a rare opportunity for tempering.


    As long as she could advance to thete Foundation Establishment stage, she would surpass most Foundation Establishment cultivators and significantly increase her status within the sect.


    In the following idle chatter, Lan Chang''an learned that Zhang Tieshan had advanced to thete stage of the Foundation Establishment six months ago.


    It was said that Zhang Tieshan''s gains in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm were among the best among the participating cultivators from Jin Yun Valley.


    This time, he stood out from the crowd, and his position within the sect was elevated, and he garnered the attention of the core elders.


    For Li Erqing''s birthday banquet, Zhang Tieshan didn''t attend in person, sending a disciple to extend his greetings instead.


    ...


    "Bingyun, go see your master first," Lan Chang''an said to the slightly uneasy Mu Bingyun.


    She had yet to detach herself from the role of Lan Changan''s maid.


    "Yes, Uncle Lan." Mu Bingyun bowed and left, carrying the letter Lan Chang''an had given her to see her master.


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense followed her to ensure she wasn''t intercepted on the way.


    He looked at Zhao Siyao and transmitted a message: "Fellow Daoist Zhao, there''s something I need you to be a middleman for. It won''t take much time or effort, and you''ll receive five hundred spirit stones aspensation."


    "Oh, is there such an easy task?" Zhao Siyao asked, pursing her lips in thought.


    Theymunicated through voice transmission for a moment.


    Lan Chang''an hinted in the letter Mu Bingyun carried back that there was an opportunity for Foundation Establishment in Zhao Siyao''s hands, suggesting they strive for it.


    Zhao Siyao had previously refined a Foundation Establishment Pill within the sect, so she could withstand any scrutiny.


    Lan Chang''an had brought back a Foundation Establishment Pill before, trading with the Mu Family once. If the same trade were to happen again, acquiring Foundation Establishment Pills would seem too easy for him.


    ...


    After the birthday banquet ended.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao stayed overnight in guest rooms on Moonheart Ind. As Foundation Establishment cultivators, they enjoyed their own private courtyards.


    Late that night, the family head, Mu Chengji, and a veiled old woman visited Zhao Siyao''s courtyard.


    After about half an hour, Zhao Siyao saw the two visitors out, her expression slightlyplex.


    "Only the Great Dao and the sun and moon are eternal," she gazed at the night sky, suddenly realizing: back at the Immortal Gathering Building, Lan Chang''an''s change in address wasn''t just for the sake of clearing his name.


    ...


    The next morning, Zhao Siyao came to Lan Chang''an''s courtyard.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, here are the spirit stones from selling the Foundation Establishment Pill," she said, handing a bag of spirit stones to Lan Chang''an.


    In the past, at the Huanglong Auction, a standard Foundation Establishment Pill was sold for six thousand spirit stones. In this bag, there were fifty-five hundred spirit stones.


    Lan Chang''an gave five hundred of them to Zhao Siyao as an intermediary fee.


    In this transaction, Lan Chang''an was a businessman, and selling to other forces would yield a simr price. At least with the Mu Family, there was some familiarity, and using Zhao Siyao from the sect to facilitate the deal minimized risks.


    From the Mu Family''s perspective, Zhao Siyao''s close friendship with Lan Chang''an meant she agreed to the deal out of respect for him.


    Mu Bingyun had been on Little Turtle Peak for many years. Having spent so many years on Little Turtle Peak, Mu Bingyun had earned her own merit, even if it was only sweat, and receiving this opportunity for Foundation Establishment was her benefit for her dedication.


    Half an hourter.


    A graceful woman in a green dress flew hurriedly to Lan Chang''an''s courtyard.


    "Uncle Lan."


    However, the courtyard was empty.


    Lan Chang''an had left without saying goodbye, not taking her along.


    Mu Bingyun''s clear eyes turned red, and she stood there in a daze, feeling an inexplicable emptiness in her heart.


    She understood that from now on, she was no longer a maid of Little Turtle Peak.


    The days of nurturing and caring, assisting Uncle Lan with making talismans, managing the mountain, and being apanied by the Earth Burrowing Rat and the Profound Water Turtle, were now behind her.


    ...


    Outside Feiyue Lake''s sky, Lan Chang''an bid farewell to Zhao Siyao and Lin Lu.


    Two Foundation Establishment Pills, one had already been converted into spirit stones.


    Previously, due to purchasing materials like third-rank spiritual wood, Lan Chang''an''s spirit stones had nearly been exhausted. Now his wallet was bulging once again.


    Combined with the spoils obtained from Alchemist Hua, the number of spirit stones broke ten thousand.


    With his finances secure, he wasn''t in a hurry to sell the remaining Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "Good luck."


    Lan Chang''an took onest look at Feiyue Lake.


    Whether Mu Bingyun could sessfully establish her Foundation was beyond his control.


    Coincidentally, Mu Bingyun''s age at Foundation Establishment was forty-seven, the same as her master, Mu Xiuyun, back then.


    Their aptitudes were also simr, with Mu Bingyun being slightly better at most.


    The differencey in Mu Bingyun''s decision not to stubbornly cling to her family legacy and make a different choice from her master back then.


    Two monthster.


    Feiyue Lake, above Moonheart Ind.


    The heaven and earth spiritual energy gathered, forming a small spiritual vortex.


    Ten dayster, the vortex emitted a faint glow, slowly dissipating.


    Subsequently, a surge of Foundation Establishment spiritual pressure emerged from a cave-dwelling on Moonheart Ind.


    "Foundation Establishment Sess!"


    Some of the Mu Family''s old lineage members were moved to tears, filled with excitement.


    This time, Feiyue Lake faced no external threats, and the Foundation Establishment process was smooth and undisturbed.


    The Maple Leaf Huang Family was down to one female Foundation Establishment cultivator, relying on herte-stage Foundation Establishment partner to protect their family''s territory.


    Thatte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator was difficult to deal with, being greedy and insatiable, making the Huang Family miserable.


    Several dayster, inside a secluded chamber.


    A young woman in a green dress, with eyes as bright as stars, opened her eyes. Her dress fluttered in the breeze.


    Having sessfully established her foundation, her appearance and demeanor had subtly improved.


    "Master... Disciple''s decision back then was not wrong."


    "Your support all these years, treating me as a stand-in for your younger self, has validated apletely different fate. Do you feelforted by this?" Mu Bingyun, radiant and beautiful as a snow lotus, stood up gracefully.


    "Uncle Lan, thank you."


    With a respectful expression, she looked towards the north of Feiyue Lake and bowed deeply.


    ...


    Three to four monthster.


    Wuqi Mountain, Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an unfolded a letter, looking at the elegant handwriting.


    It was the first letter he received from Mu Bingyun.


    Mu Bingyun''s sessful Foundation Establishment was within his expectations.


    Lan Chang''an did not reply to the letter.


    He entered the secret room and began studying and crafting a new puppet.


    Half a yearter...


    Lan Chang''anpleted his second mid-grade second-rank puppet.


    It was also a turtle puppet, with defense skills maxed out.


    A change this time around was that the turtle puppet could form a three-zhang-high turtle shield, which could be used as a supreme-grade defensive weapon at critical moments.


    Afterpleting this turtle puppet, Lan Chang''an, now at mid-Foundation Establishment, turned 103 years old.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    "Manrong! Fellow Daoist Lan! You must seek justice for me..."


    A wailing voice echoed from the outskirts of Wuqi Mountain, loud enough to be heard clearly from all three of the main peaks, despite their distance.


    "Senior Brother Lan, Chen Sheng has had his leg crippled by someone." Soon after, Guan Qiaozhi came to report.

 Chapter 131: Immortal City Recruitment

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    In the past, Lan Chang''an would have ignored news about Chen Sheng. This time, however, hearing that the man had been beaten and had his leg broken, Lan Chang''an felt quite pleased and decided to go outside his cave dwelling for a stroll.


    Between Little Turtle Peak and Xiao Pan Peak, Chen Sheng was in a sorry state: disheveled hair, dark circles under his eyes, nose caved, and blood dried at the corners of his mouth. His lower body had be a single "nk bridge," a severe injury that would significantly affect his strength in the Foundation Establishment Realm, making future advancement even more difficult.


    "Manrong¡­"


    "Even if you can''t seek justice for me, can you at least lend me some spirit stones to heal my leg?"


    Chen Sheng pleaded in vain outside Xiao Pan Peak for quite some time. Unfortunately, Shi Manrong has not returned to Wuqi Mountain recently.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan! You''re finally out! You must seek justice for me," Chen Sheng wailed, shifting his pleas toward Little Turtle Peak.


    "That bastard Zheng Wu not only took over my family''s remaining assets but also ambushed me and crippled this poor Chen."


    Zheng Wu was the original name of Zheng Centipede."Are you sure it was Zheng Wu?" Lan Chang''an asked only after Chen Sheng''s wailing had weakened.


    "That bastard disguised himself, hiding his identity, but his aura can''t fool this Chen," Chen Sheng shouted angrily.


    "Oh, so you have no evidence?" Lan Chang''an lightly nodded and returned to his cave mansion, ignoring Chen Sheng, who was spitting and shouting outside the peak.


    "This doesn''t need evidence! Except for him, no other Foundation Establishment cultivators have any interest in harming me¡­"


    Chen Sheng spent half a day seeking justice at Wuqi Mountain, eventually leaving in dejection.


    Lan Chang''an pondered, "Zheng Centipede had a notorious reputation in his early years. Not killing Chen Sheng might be because he¡¯s new here and doesn''t want to be too ruthless, fearing leaving a bad impression. Also, he might worry about someone with lingering connections protecting Chen Sheng."


    "Chen Sheng''s leg was broken this time, if no onees out and speaks up, it will be dangerous down the road."


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Zheng Centipede visited with gifts.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I heard Chen Sheng had his leg crippled. You must not believe his side of the story¡­" Zheng Centipede feigned grievances, though his scarred and fierce face made it unconvincing.


    "Well yed," Lan Chang''an replied.


    "Haha! If it weren''t for Fairy Shi and Fellow Daoist Lan, I would have done more than just break one of his legs, I would''ve broken the third one too," Zheng Centipede sneered, dropping his pretense.


    Fairy Shi just returned from her travels these past few days, so Zheng Wugong promptly visited Xiao Pan Peak next.


    Fifteen minutester, he came out, sighing. Fairy Shi didn''t me him for striking out to teach him a lesson but subtly suggested he leave Chen Sheng alive.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, although Chen Sheng had been a scoundrel, he hadn''t engaged in conflicts of interest, and other Foundation Establishment cultivators had tolerated him out of respect for Fairy Shi.


    During their conversation, Zheng Centipede learned that Fairy Shi had recently been cooperating with Huanglong Mountain, hired as an esteemed guest by Huanglong Immortal City. Such a background was beyond the reach of Zheng Centipede, who had just established himself, he dared not offend her.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an went to Huanglong Immortal City for arge auction, also nning to buy mid-grade second-rank puppet materials.


    This time in Huanglong Immortal City, Lan Chang''an noticed a different atmosphere.


    All areas of the city were reinforced with formations. Themercial streets were less bustling, and the prices of residential properties and cave dwellings had dropped collectively. Even so, many cultivators were leaving Huanglong Immortal City.


    "There are signs of a beast tide. Unusuallyrge groups of demon beasts are gathering on the outskirts of the ck Fog Mountain Range."


    "Two months ago, the aura of a third-rank great demon was detected in the direction of the ck Fog Mountain Range¡­"


    Lan Chang''an sat in a teahouse for a while and heard the rted news. To be exact, the beast tide was only brewing and it was far from erupting.


    There were also more foreign cultivators with a fierce aura in the city. While many cultivators avoided the beast tide, for some ambitious ones, it was a rare opportunity.


    To deal with the beast tide, Huanglong Immortal City offered substantial rewards, inviting cultivators to defend the city and hunt demons. Formation masters, talisman makers, and artifact refiners were offered generous terms.


    Huanglong Mountain, usually aloof, lowered its stance, bing approachable. If one had mid to high-grade second-rank skills, they could even form connections with Huanglong Mountain¡¯s inner circle.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an, disguised, purchased some supplies in the city, including materials for puppets, talismans, and formations. He noticed that the prices of magical weapons had risen significantly, and those of talismans and pills had slightly increased. In contrast, the prices of low-grade beast materials had slipped somewhat.


    It just so happened that Lan Chang''an had some stocks of magic weapons below the top superior-grade on hand, which were basically all stolen goods.


    As for talisman materials, Lan Chang''an was in no hurry. Prices would likely drop further when the beast tide arrived.


    Six dayster.


    Lan Chang''an, still disguised, attended therge auction in Huanglong.


    "Fellow Daoist, your cultivation is quite advanced. May I know your name?"


    "Would you be interested in joining our Huanglong Mountain demon-hunting team? The treatment and reward will definitely satisfy Your Excellency¡­"


    To his amusement, upon entering the auction venue, his mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation attracted Huanglong Mountain¡¯s inner circle¡¯s recruitment.


    Mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators were rare and considered high-endbat power outside of sects.


    "I¡¯m just here for the auction and have no interest in that," Lan Chang''an straightforwardly refused.


    This auction wasn''t as lively as previous ones, but some of the top superior-grade and supreme-grade magical weapons fetched higher prices than usual.


    Lan Chang''an obtained two items he needed: a second-rank Life Extension Pill and an ample amount of second-rank superior-grade metal ore, sufficient for either crafting puppets or enhancing their strength.


    ...


    After the auction, Lan Chang''an wasted no time leaving Huanglong Immortal City.


    On his way out, he sensed rough cultivators lurking in the shadows, including evil cultivators concealing their aura.


    Lan Chang''an had disguised his identity but didn¡¯t hide his mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation, and the ordinary rouge cultivators didn''t dare to strike him.


    "Ah! Help¡­"


    Along the way, he faintly heard sounds of fighting and cries for help.


    "The beast tide is brewing, and Huanglong Mountain¡¯s attention is diverted. All sorts of miscreants areing out."


    Lan Chang''an sensed the worsening security around Huanglong Immortal City, reflecting Huanglong Mountain¡¯s declining control.


    ...


    Back at Wuqi Mountain, Little Turtle Peak.


    In the secret room, Lan Chang''an consumed his third second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    Previously, the first and second pills had extended his life by twenty-three and eighteen years, respectively.


    After taking the third pill, Lan Chang''an felt as if awakening from a cycle of years, clearly sensing an increase in his lifespan limit.


    "Fourteen and a half years."


    "The total lifespan at the Foundation Establishment Realm now reaches 450 years."


    Lan Chang''an once again sensed a slight enhancement to the Evergreen mana within his body.


    ...


    A yearter.


    Lan Chang''an circted his Evergreen mana, nourishing twenty-four treasure talismans on a spirit wood table.


    Three of the treasure talismans, which were made from quasi-third-rank talisman embryos, had been nurtured for more than seven years, and their power exceeded that of ordinary talismanic treasures, posing a threat to even False-Dan cultivators.


    The other twenty-one were made from second-rank superior-grade talisman embryos, nurtured for over thirty years, with the weakest starting at the power of entry-level talismanic treasures. Of course, these treasure talismans were single-use. Regr talismanic treasures could be used several times.


    After nurturing the talismans, Lan Chang''an and his Profound Water Turtle left the cave mansion.


    Since Lan Chang''an reached mid-stage Foundation Establishment, the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s cultivation speed has significantly increased, nearly twice as fast as its peers.


    Lan Chang''an sensed that the turtle was approaching the limit ofte first-rank.


    The Profound Water Turtle was now nearly half a zhang wide, making it suitable as a spirit pet mount. However, ate first-rank Profound Water Turtle could only hover briefly. It needed to reach second rank tofortably fly and travel carrying a rider.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat brought over a letter.


    Lan Chang''an read it. It was another letter from Mu Bingyun.


    Over the past two years, Mu Bingyun had sent a letter every six months, reminiscing about the past, discussing the present, or seeking advice.


    Lan Chang''an sometimes didn¡¯t reply, and when in a good mood, he answered a question or two.


    "Feiyue Lake¡¯s Mu Family has stabilized."


    Lan Chang''an sat on the Profound Water Turtle as thetter swam smoothly into the lotus pond with a slight sense of undtion.


    After establishing Foundation, Mu Bingyun and Li Erqing maintained a respectful rtionship. The Mu Family¡¯s old faction, having a backbone, now had the confidence to contend with the Li faction for power and resources.


    Both factions had Foundation Establishment cultivators, making thepetition rtively fair.


    Of course, the old grievances and conflicts between the new and old factions hadn¡¯t fundamentally resolved, only achieving a rtive bnce.


    Li Erqing¡¯s descendants were reluctant to relinquish the vested interests within the Mu Family. But with reduced internal strife and two Foundation Establishment leaders, the Mu Family overall progressed.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    Lan Chang''an received a sound transmission talisman from Little Pill Peak.


    Alchemist Lin Ye invited Lan Chang''an for a visit.


    Among Wuqi Mountain¡¯s three main peaks, Little Pill Peak¡¯s master had always had the highest status and seniority. He could even be called the Mountain Lord.


    Arriving at Little Pill Peak, Lan Chang''an found Shi Manrong already there.


    The three peak masters sat in the cave dwelling.


    Given their individual busy schedules, such gatherings were rare.


    Lin Ye,pared to thirty years ago, had aged significantly, now with a head full of white hair. Shi Manrong, however, looked the same: her ck hair elegantly styled, her figure graceful, and her demeanor calm and serene. Lin Ye¡¯s age was considerably greater, and it was rumored Shi Manrong had taken a Youth Retaining Pill years ago.


    Their conversation was pleasant until Lin Ye announced a surprising news.


    "Fellow Daoists, from now on, I¡¯ll leave Wuqi Mountain to you. I¡¯m nning to return to my homnd for retirement."


    "Alchemist Lin, done joke, you confirm that you want to withdraw your lease and leave Wuqi Mountain?" Lan Chang''an froze for a moment and asked.


    From his perception, Lin Ye had about sixty more years to live, possibly extended with Life Extension Pills. At such an age, some chose to fight for advancement, while others preferred a peaceful leave.


    "I¡¯ve already applied to the Jin Yun Valley¡¯s steward. In theing year, during the transition period, you two can discuss and choose a co-tenant."


    Lin Ye¡¯s decision to leave Wuqi Mountain was clearly well-considered. Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong did not attempt to dissuade him, only epting this fact.


    Shi Manrong remained unperturbed, "I¡¯ll be spending more time at Huanglong Immortal City in theing years, assisting Huanglong Mountain with formations, so I¡¯ll rarely return to Wuqi Mountain."


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you can decide the co-tenant for the vacant main peak," she added.


    Hearing their words, Lan Chang''an was caught off guard and somewhat speechless.


    One senior alchemist decided to retire and leave Wuqi Mountain. Another formation genius was employed by Huanglong Immortal City, essentially on a long-term assignment, she relinquished her say and potentially leaving in the future. In this way, the decision-making power for the vacant peak¡¯s new tenant fell to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t anticipated this turn of events.


    After barely thirty years, he might be the most senior peak master on Wuqi Mountain.

 Chapter 132: Peak Master Candidates

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    In the past, Lin Ye of Little Pill Peak was, in a sense, considered the person in charge of Wuqi Mountain. Now, this role and title had fallen upon Lan Chang''an.


    Leaving Little Pill Peak, Lan Chang''an looked at Shi Manrong, who flew out with him and asked casually.


    "Fairy Shi, it seems that Huanglong Mountain''s demand for formation masters to deal with this beast tide is greater than expected?"


    During his visit to Huanglong Immortal City, he noticed that Huanglong Mountain had recruited many senior formation masters with exceptionally generous rewards.


    He didn''t know what benefits were offered, but even an independent formation genius like Shi Manrong was persuaded to temporarily join Huanglong Mountain.


    "Yes, Huanglong Mountain has indeed recruited many formation masters. Perhaps they predict this beast tide to berger than usual, or there might be other reasons." Shi Manrong nodded, not giving a definite answer.


    Lan Chang''an felt that Fairy Shi probably knew something but was concealing it out of professionalism.


    Given the current environment, Fairy Shi''s talent and aplishments in formations were enough to gain the attention and respect of the core members of Huanglong Mountain, treating her as an honored guest.To think, there was once a fleeting romance between this woman and him. Now, she had joined the ranks of Huanglong Mountain''s faction?


    Due to past grudges, Huanglong Mountain was considered half an imaginary enemy in Lan Chang''an''s mind.


    ...


    Shi Manrong stayed at Wuqi Mountain for a few days before heading to Huanglong Immortal City.


    Half a monthter.


    The formations at Little Pill Peak, where Lin Ye resided, were dismantled, and the valuable spiritual items on the mountain and in the cave mansion were taken away.


    Lan Chang''an saw Lin Ye off.


    Since Alchemist Hua''s death, Lan Chang''an felt that Lin Ye had lost some of his former vitality.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I''m leaving Wuqi Mountain in your hands."


    "Fairy Shi is an excellent Daopanion candidate; don''t miss the opportunity..." Before saying goodbye, Lin Ye had a relieved look on his face and said something he hadn''t said in the past.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that during the time he had been close to Fairy Shi, Lin Ye, as a neighbor, Alchemist Lin might have noticed some things.


    ...


    After sending Lin Ye off.


    Wuqi Mountain was left with only Lan Chang''an as the peak master.


    "A one-year buffer period, I need to quickly finalize the candidate for the third peak to share the rent." Lan Chang''an mused.


    Lin Ye''s exit from the shared lease, having paid the penalty spirit stones,pensated both Jin Yun Valley and the two peak masters.


    However, the absence of a second-rank superior-grade alchemist significantly weakened Wuqi Mountain''s appeal to potential customers.


    In previous years, business came knocking on his door, allowing Lan Chang''an to earn spirit stones steadily and leisurely.


    Besides, there were security concerns.


    In the past, Wuqi Mountain had two or three Foundation Establishment cultivators stationed year-round, deterring idle evil cultivator groups from making any moves.


    If only Lan Chang''an, a single Foundation Establishment cultivator, remained, the security would be less assured.


    If something dangerous ever urred, the primary target would likely be the lone peak master Lan Chang''an, leaving no one else willing to take on such risks within the same cultivation level.


    That day, Lan Chang''an talked with Wuqi Mountain''s steward, Lan Lin, for a long time.


    Having been at Wuqi Mountain for over thirty years, Lan Lin was already in the mold of a middle-aged woman.


    She had trained several young, graceful female cultivators to handle external receptions and manage the mundane affairs of Wuqi Mountain.


    "Don''t worry, Talisman Master Lan, Wuqi Mountain''s geographical location and spiritual environment attract no shortage of wandering Foundation Establishment cultivators to join."


    "I will put out the rental information and assist in selecting suitable candidates." Lan Lin took on the matter with full confidence.


    ...


    Over the next two months, several Foundation Establishment cultivators showed interest and visited Wuqi Mountain for inquiries.


    Lan Chang''an had a lot of free time, and whenever he was not out, he personally met with the Foundation Establishment cultivators who came for an "interview."


    The criteria for choosing the peak master required them to be a craftsman, with second-rank middle-grade alchemists being preferred.


    Lan Chang''an conducted preliminary screenings.


    Those with poor skills or bad character among the Foundation Establishment cultivators were eliminated in the first round.


    You shouldn''t put all your eggs in one basket.


    Lan Chang''an made another trip to Jin Yun Valley.


    Using the sect''swork, he put the word out, looking for a well-known, high-quality candidate for the peak master.


    This time, Zhang Tieshan was not there, so Lan Chang''an met with Zhao Siyao.


    In fact, back more than a year ago, Lan Chang''an attended the centennial birthdays of both Zhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao, presenting each with a gift.


    At the sect level, perspectives differ, and actions are more low-key.


    Unlike cultivation families, which often hold grand Foundation Establishment ceremonies andrge banquets for centennial birthdays. For sect cultivators, a centennial birthday is considered a more meaningful birthday.


    The duo''s modest centennial celebrations, like Lan Chang''an''s, were akin to a family banquet, except that there were a lot more Foundation Establishment cultivators visiting. Especially for Zhang Tieshan''s birthday, even two Fake-Dan cultivators made an appearance.


    In Lan Chang''an''s long years, the intricate details of such social interactions are not worth borating on.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    Four Foundation Establishment cultivators came to Wuqi Mountain and sat in the main hall of Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an sat at the head, ready to choose one of the preliminary shortlisted craftsmen to be stationed at Wuqi Mountain.


    The four Foundation Establishment cultivators present were three men and one woman.


    The only female cultivator was named Su Hongye, at the early-stage Foundation Establishment, and she was a second-rank middle-grade winemaker.


    This woman wore a red dress, had a seductive figure, a beautiful face, and eyes like autumn water, bewitching the soul.


    Su Hongye was rmended by the steward, Lan Lin.


    She was somewhat famous in the "Liaoyuan Immortal City" in the central part of the Liang Kingdom and had a stable clientele.


    Her brewed spiritual wine could promote cultivation, temper the body, and temporarily enhance magical power.


    The other three male Foundation Establishment cultivators were from the various cultivation professions such as alchemists, herbalists, and artifact refiners.


    The artifact refiner was a ck-bearded old man named Kong Mao, at the early-stage Foundation Establishment, a second-rank middle-grade artifact refiner.


    The alchemist was a handsome and effeminate man named Jiang Yechen, who was at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage and a second-rank middle-grade alchemist.


    The herbalist was a short-haired,zy youth named Ye Fei, at the early Foundation Establishment stage, a second-rank middle-grade herbalist.


    Alchemists and herbalists share somemon ground, but they focus on different aspects.


    The former mainly refines pills, focusing on cultivation needs.


    Herbalists are skilled in pharmacology, generally also refining pills, but focusing on healing, treating diseases, or using poisons.


    In the cultivation world, besides various deadly toxins and gues, there are also strange and even incurable diseases.


    Even immortals are subject to the five decays of heaven and man.


    As long as one hasn''t transcended into immortality, they are essentially still mortal, not exempt from birth, aging, sickness, and death.


    "It''s an honor to have you four Fellow Daoists visit Wuqi Mountain." Lan Chang''an''s gaze swept over the four present and exchanged a few polite words.


    In fact, he already had a rough idea of his choice. Today''s meeting was merely to make a final confirmation.


    Announcing the decision early might be awkward if the chosen one suddenly backed out. It''s good to have backup options.


    Among the four Foundation Establishment craftsmen.


    Lan Chang''an first eliminated the only female cultivator, Su Hongye.


    Firstly, the priority of a winemaker was lower than that of an alchemist, even if she was skilled and had a good reputation.


    Secondly, this woman was seductive and charming, with many admirers in Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an was worried about attracting unnecessary trouble.


    The ck-bearded old man, "Kong Mao," a second-rank middle-grade artifact refiner, was also lower on the priority list.


    Lan Chang''an mainly focused on the alchemist Jiang Yechen and the herbalist Ye Fei.


    Both had second-rank middle-grade skills.


    "Jiang Yechen, from one of the seven great cultivation families, the Jiang Family. Due to certain reasons, he cut ties with his closest family members, possessing superior-grade spiritual root aptitude and his skills are not bad either."


    It''s worth mentioning that Jiang Yechen was introduced by Zhang Tieshan.


    "Ye Fei, a descendant of a wandering cultivator, has aid-back personality. Decades ago, to avenge his parents, he poisoned an entire family of more than a hundred Qi-Refining cultivators, leaving him with a less-than-ster reputation."


    ...


    Lan Chang''an''s choice was actually Ye Fei.


    This person had a simple background, and apart from avenging his parents and poisoning a cultivation family, he had no other significant misconduct.


    In recent years, Ye Fei had mingled in severalrge markets and immortal cities, stationed at severalrge pharmacies without causing any trouble.


    Other cultivators were wary of him mainly because he was skilled in using poisons.


    But Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen Technique had strong anti-poison capabilities. His keen sense and strong spiritual sense made it easy to detect any anomalies.


    In terms of personal ability, Lan Chang''anpletely outmatched Ye Fei, with higher cultivation and skills.


    Although Jiang Yechen had better overall qualities, his ties with the seven great families and his somewhat arrogant demeanor were concerning. He only shared a superficial friendship with Zhang Tieshan.


    To be safe, Lan Chang''an, while drinking tea, merged his mind with the Nine Seal Stele, receiving the second life''s support, and scanned Ye Fei with his spiritual sense, also taking a look at the other three.


    Previously, during the initial selection, Lan Chang''an hadn''t thoroughly investigated each candidate.


    While he was out, not every one of the four people present had been personally received either.


    "Ye Fei also cultivates a wood system technique, seemingly possessing both healing and poison-inducing capabilities."


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense swept over Ye Fei without finding any abnormalities.


    "Er? This person..."


    His spiritual sense detected something unusual in one of the other three.


    The ck-bearded old man, "Kong Mao," the artifact refiner, was actually hiding his true identity and cultivation, being at thete-stage Foundation Establishment.


    He was wearing a super-thin mask, a disguise artifact that could even deceive Fake-Dan cultivators.


    Although Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense, having reached the mid-stage Foundation Establishment, was stronger than thete Foundation Establishment, he hadn''t noticed anything amiss before.


    Additionally, Jiang Yechen had a soul dao artifact on him, indicating he wasn''t a simple person.


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense detected it but didn''t forcefully investigate further.


    If the target had a soul artifact, the effectiveness of Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense secret art used with his first life''s support would be greatly reduced.


    "Today, I am ready to confirm the candidate for the third peak." Lan Chang''an put down his teacup with a smile, showing no signs of his earlier discoveries.


    At this moment, a charming female voice transmitted to his ear.


    "Miss is willing to offer two jars of two-hundred-year-old second-rank spirit wine."


    Su Hongye was secretly bribing him, with items worth several hundred spirit stones.


    This didn''t surprise Lan Chang''an, as some other slightly less qualified Foundation Establishment cultivators had also hinted at bribes during the reception.


    "Fellow Daoist Ye Fei, would you be willing to reside at Wuqi Mountain?" Lan Chang''an''s gaze fell on thezy short-haired youth.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan chose me?" Ye Fei was stunned for a moment, then quickly cupped his hands in thanks.


    "Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Ye."


    The other three were a bit surprised but had noints.


    Su Hongye showed some regret, flicking her hair.


    Jiang Yechen frowned slightly, appearing displeased, but soon regained hisposure. He didn''t lose his manners, greeted Lan Chang''an, and was the first to leave.


    Su Hongye and the ck-bearded old man, "Kong Mao," who had hidden his cultivation, also left soon after.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang, don''t take it to heart."


    Su Hongye, leaving the cave mansion, caught up with the handsome and effeminate Jiang Yechen, whom she had known for years.


    "The selection of the main peak master of Wuqi Mountainrgely depends on the mountain lord''s personal preference. Lan Chang''an''s criteria may not prioritize strength."


    "Sometimes, being too outstanding can be a disadvantage."


    "It doesn''t matter, I was just curious."


    Jiang Yechen detected the hidden meaning in her words and didn''t want to chat more on the topic.


    ...


    "Thepetition for the third peak was truly full of hidden talents." In the main hall, Lan Chang''an watched the three leave, speaking meaningfully.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I am no hidden talent. May I ask why you chose me?" Ye Fei asked with a puzzled expression.


    Ye Fei had indeed been drawn to Wuqi Mountain''s location and cultivation environment. However, it was only with the mentality of giving it a try; he knew very well that his chances were slim.


    The primary reason was that his expertisey in poison techniques, and his reputation that came from his once brutal revenge, often made people wary and uneasy around him.

 Chapter 133: Beast Tide Strikes

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    ¡°You will understand in time.¡±


    Lan Chang''an gave no exnation and led him to the Little Pill Peak.


    Ye Fei watched the serene and tranquil figure in white, suppressing the curiosity in his heart. He had a hunch that the reason why this rumored elderly Foundation Establishment cultivator chose himself should have some deep meaning.


    Little Pill Peak was the highest main peak of Wuqi Mountain, majestic and beautiful, with clouds and mist swirling around the summit, creating a magnificent spectacle.


    Ye Fei set aside his usualzy demeanor and carefully observed every nt and tree on the mountain.


    His eyebrows rxed as he took a deep breath of the cool mountain air, a slight smile ying on his lips.


    ¡°Not a bad environment.¡±


    The previous owner of Little Pill Peak was a second-rank superior-grade alchemist, and the preserved garden architecture andyout suited his needs.Ye Fei immediately paid a deposit of spirit stones and signed a temporary lease. A formal lease would need to wait until Shi Manrong returned to sign it before witnesses from Jin Yun Valley.


    At the mountaintop, the two chatted for a while. Lan Chang''an got a better understanding of Ye Fei''s situation.


    Ye Fei was several decades younger than Lan Chang''an and had an outstanding talent for pharmacology since childhood. His parents werete-stage Qi-Refining loose cultivators, giving him a decent background.


    After avenging his parents, Ye Fei had wandered through various marketces and immortal cities for decades, primarily working in pharmacies and eptingmissions from merchant associations.


    In recent years, he had saved up a small fortune and wanted to find a stable and independent cultivation site. Wuqi Mountain was a good choice, with a good location and an eptable co-rental price, and offered opportunities to earn spirit stones.


    As a herbalist, Ye Fei could also refine pills, only his attainments were not as specialized as those of alchemists of the same rank. However, he excelled in treating illnesses, healing injuries, and detoxifying poisons. His abilities were quiteprehensive.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Ye, do you know the artifact refiner ¡®Kong Mao¡¯ whopeted with you earlier?¡± Lan Chang''an thought of the ck-bearded old man who had hidden his cultivation.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Kong Mao? I only have a passing acquaintance with him and don''t know much.¡±


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Kong originally hailed from a marketce within the sphere of Liuyun Sect''s influence in the northern part of Liang Kingdom. Over a decade ago, the marketce where Fellow Daoist Kong was based was attacked by rogue cultivators and fell apart. having lost his home, he came to Huanglong Immortal City, where he has been a low-profile and unassuming character for years.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    Lan Chang''an nodded, not delving further.


    Previously, he had basic information that Kong Mao came from the vicinity of Huanglong Immortal City. It turns out he originally came from a marketce north of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, I must return home to pack and purchase some resources.¡± Ye Fei stayed for half an hour before getting up to leave.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an returned to Little Turtle Peak and fell into thought.


    ¡°Kong Mao¡¯s background can be traced, and there are no obvious ws. But this person appears to be in the early Foundation Establishment stage, while his real cultivation is in thete Foundation Establishment stage.¡±


    The ultra-thin mask Kong Mao wore was a disguising treasure, it was likely that his identity had been reced by someone else.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind merged with the Nine Seal Stele¡¯s second life, amplifying his divine sense to match that of a Core Formation Immortal, thus detecting the anomaly. At the time, he didn¡¯t try to break the mask treasure, as it would alert the other party.


    In any case, ¡°Kong Mao¡±ing to Wuqi Mountain topete for the peak master position definitely had ulterior motives. Although he didn¡¯t be the peak master, he still managed to gather information.


    For Lan Chang''an, as long as the other party didn¡¯t sessfully infiltrate, there was no real threat.


    Little Turtle Peak had double protective mountain formations. Lan Chang''an, in the mid-stage Foundation Establishment, was a senior second-rank talisman master and had a mid second-rank spirit pet.


    Even with just his visible means, he wasn¡¯t afraid of ate Foundation Establishment cultivator and even had a chance of winning.


    Precautions were still necessary.


    Lan Chang''an nned to raise the strength of Little Turtle Peak and his cave¡¯s formations, which would increase the consumption of spirit stones ordingly.


    He also instructed Guan Qiaozhi not to leave Wuqi Mountain unless necessary and to have the loose cultivators who are dependent on the main peak handle any matters.


    ...


    A monthter.


    Shi Manrong returned to Wuqi Mountain to help the officially settled Ye Fei set up protective mountain formations.


    While setting up the formations, Lan Chang''an watched from a distance, sensing Shi Manrong''s significant progress in formation techniques and stable advancement in cultivation over the past few years.


    This might be rted to her joining Huanglong Mountain.


    Once the formations were set up, Lan Chang''an looked for Shi Manrong to discuss some things.


    ¡°Fairy Shi, if the beast tide isrge, some stray fish will inevitably break through the front line and impact the surroundings. At that time, there may be curmudgeons who fish in troubled waters.¡±


    ¡°I suggest strengthening the alert formations on Wuqi Mountain.¡±


    The cost of alert formations wasn¡¯t high, it was mainly a test of the attainments of the formation master.


    Shi Manrong thought for a moment and agreed with Lan Chang''an''s suggestion.


    Although she didn''t stay permanently at Wuqi Mountain, she had decades of hard-cultivated spirit assets on Xiao Pan Peak, which were still managed by her maids and servants.


    Moreover, her cooperation with Huanglong Mountain was temporary; the future was uncertain, and she needed to leave herself a way out.


    In the following days, Fairy Shi set up some hidden alert formations on Wuqi Mountain.


    The cost of setting up these formations was borne by the three peak masters. Considering his own safety, the newly arrived Ye Fei did not object.


    A few more months passed.


    A Foundation Establishment deacon from Jin Yun Valley arrived at Wuqi Mountain, and the three peak masters re-signed the co-rental spirit contract.


    Afterpleting this, Shi Manrong immediately returned to Huanglong Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an had a feeling that Huanglong Mountain¡¯s hefty recruitment of Shi Manrong wasn¡¯t just to deal with the beast tide.


    ...


    A yearter, Lan Chang''an turned 106 years old.


    On this day, he finished his daily cultivation and treasure talisman nurturing.


    Stepping out of his cave, as usual, he gazed northward.


    Vaguely, he sensed an invisible demonic wind and baleful energy spilling out from the ancient mountain range in the north.


    ¡°It¡¯sing.¡± Lan Chang''an murmured.


    For the past six months, he had been observing the north, using his rudimentary qi observation technique from his previous life to judge the rough stage of the beast tide.


    Wuqi Mountain wasn¡¯t like Huanglong Immortal City, located on the front line of the beast tide. Its geographical location was some distant from the ck Fog Mountain Range, rtively safer. Even so, Lan Chang''an remained vignt and cautious.


    Ten dayster, news from the front line reached Wuqi Mountain.


    ¡°Senior Brother Lan, a beast tide has erupted in the ck Fog Mountain Range. Huanglong Immortal City and the surrounding cultivation forces are under attack by beast hordes.¡± Guan Qiaozhi came to report, her expression serious and urgent.


    ¡°Hmm, it won¡¯t affect us for the time being.¡± Lan Chang''an remained calm.


    The essence of a beast tide was that numerous types of demonic beasts, with strong reproductive capabilities, were too abundant for the ck Fog Mountain Range to sustain internally. High-ranking demonic beasts would drive out lower level beast ns from the inside out. The driven beast hordes, with their innate cultivation needs, would first attack human territories with spiritual veins.


    During a beast tide, high-ranking demonic beasts would secretly control the tide, attempting to expand their territory.


    Thousands of years ago, when the demon race''s power was strong, most of Liang Kingdom was upied by demonic beasts. Immortal cultivators, too, were the target of beast hordes.


    The blood and flesh of ordinary mortals didn¡¯t appeal much to demonic beasts, who found them rather nd. But the flesh and blood of cultivators, nourished by spiritual energy, were rare tonics to demonic beasts, akin to torches zing amidst the night.


    ...


    During the first month of the beast tide¡¯s outbreak.


    Various cultivation forces adjacent to the ck Fog Mountain Range were attacked by waves of demonic beasts.


    The first to bear the brunt were forces like Huanglong Immortal City and the Beast Taming Zhou Family. They had prospered by utilizing the ck Fog Mountain Range as a treasure trove and had the experience to deal with it.


    These frontline forces were not fighting alone. Cultivation sects issued tasks, calling on disciples to go to the front lines to hunt demonic beasts. Additionally, demon beast hunters eager to profit from beast materials flocked to the front lines.


    Besides defending the city and hunting demons, cultivators of the hundred arts provided logistical supplies, earning them higherpensation than usual.


    Wuqi Mountain and its surroundings remained calm.


    Lan Chang''an noticed an increase in cultivatorsing to buy talismans. Even first-rank puppets became bestsellers. Ye Fei¡¯s Little Pill Peak, newly established, also saw good business.


    ¡°Qiaozhi, starting tomorrow, raise the prices of all talismans and puppets by twenty to thirty percent.¡± Lan Chang''an handed a jade slip to Guan Qiaozhi.


    In this special period, increasing supply wouldn¡¯t attract attention. The signs of the beast tide had appeared several years ago. It was not umon for far-sighted craftsmen to stock up on "war supplies" in advance. Lan Chang''an''s price increase was rtively reasonable.


    Although he didn¡¯t fight on the front lines, he provided war supplies from the rear, which was also considered a contribution to the human civilization.


    ...


    Two more months passed.


    News from the front lines indicated that the beast tide¡¯s scale was unprecedented, with a marketce and two Foundation Establishment cultivation families being overrun by the tide.


    The market prices for talismans, pills, magical weapons, and other items continued to rise.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s stock of first-rank mid and low-grade talismans was rapidly depleting. Fortunately, he had ample stock. He had previously purchased a lot of talisman materials in Huanglong Immortal City. However, at this rate, the talisman materials wouldn¡¯tst long.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t worried.


    He believed that it wouldn''t be long before arge amount of materials would circte from the frontline. Moreover, Wuqi Mountain¡¯s location made it convenient to procure materials from frontline bases like Huanglong Immortal City.


    One day, Outside the cave mansion, Guan Qiaozhi screamed in rm, looking frightened.


    In the sky above Wuqi Mountain, demonic winds swept.


    Shadows of several demonic birds circled in the clouds, eyeing the spiritual vein below.


    The leading ck demonic bird, with a wingspan of five or six zhang, was an early second-rank demonic bird, while the other three werete first-rank.


    ¡°Do not panic. These are just normal strays. Demonic birds can more easily bypass the front lines and enter the Liang Kingdom.¡±


    Lan Chang''an restrained his magical aura, instructing the Earth Burrowing Rat to stay hidden.


    Three months into the beast tide, only now did they start seeing demonic beasts in these rear spiritual vein areas.


    ...


    With demonic birds attacking, the nearby Little Pill Peak and Xiao Pan Peak activated their defensive formations.


    Lan Chang''an intended to collect some talisman materials and didn¡¯t fully activate his formation. The killing and defense formations on Little Turtle Peak were only partially activated.


    Suddenly, the demonic wind intensified, and a sharp screech approached from afar.


    The leading second-rank ck demonic bird¡¯s sharp gaze fixated on the Profound Water Turtle by the lotus pond.


    Four demonic birds swooped toward Little Turtle Peak.


    The Profound Water Turtle trembled, looking pitifully at Lan Chang''an at the cave entrance, who ordered it to stay put.


    Ssh!


    The Profound Water Turtle sank into the water, leaving only its massive shell exposed.


    The leading second-rank ck bird swooped down on the mountaintop, its body abruptly halting with a wary look.


    Whoosh!


    Massive waves of water condensed around the mountaintop, while an illusory blue moon floated in the sky.


    Centered on the illusory blue moon, a dark blue water curtain enveloped the mountaintop and the cave, isting it from the outside.


    This was the ¡°Illusory Moon Water Killing Formation,¡± a second-rank mid-grade illusionary killing formation set up by Shi Manrong on Little Turtle Peak.


    Swoosh~


    Within the formation, a blue ripple tinged with ck light, like a twisted, swept over the demonic birds.


    The threete first-rank demonic birds froze in midair, their bloody corpses plummeting down.

 Chapter 134: Deal Comes to the Door

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    ¡°Cheep!¡±


    The second-rank ck demonic bird reacted swiftly. As soon as the killing formation activated, it instinctively halted. It screeched angrily, emitting a burst of dark light and wind that dispersed the surrounding water ripples.


    With a sweep of its ck feathers, a dozen arc-like feather des sliced in all directions.


    Some of them targeted Lan Chang''an and the Profound Water Turtle, but most were aimed at the illusory blue moon above.


    ¡°Not too stupid.¡±


    Lan Chang''an told Guan Qiaozhi to retreat into the cave mansion, and he summoned the supreme-grade magical weapon, the Vajra Bell, which he had purchased in Huanglong Immortal City.


    A five-foot-long golden bell flew across the pond, transforming into arge bell several zhang wide, forming a semi-transparent golden shield to block attacks for the Profound Water Turtle.


    In reality, it was just for show.The little attacks of a second-rank demonic beast couldn¡¯t harm the Profound Water Turtle, which had retreated into its shell.


    ng! Boom!


    Lan Chang''an infused his mid-Foundation Establishment mana into the Vajra Bell. The booming sound waves struck the second-rank ck demonic bird trying to break out of the formation.


    The demonic bird staggered in the sky, bleeding from its mouth and nose, its speed was significantly reduced.


    The Vajra Bell not only provided defense and trapped enemies but could also emit sound waves that shook blood and energy, startling the mind.


    Squeak!


    A nimble orange-yellow demonic rat leaped out of the cave mansion.


    Its sharp ws, glowing with a dark yellow light, sliced off the head of the second-rank ck demonic bird.


    Lan Chang''an stopped preparing his spells.


    The trouble with demonic birdsy in their high mobility. Ordinary mid-Foundation Establishment cultivators found it hard to kill such early second-rank flying beasts.


    However, with the help of Little Turtle Peak¡¯s formation, Lan Chang''an could handle evente second-rank demonic beasts with just his surface abilities.


    Decades ago, the Heavenly Moon Wolf from the ck Fog Mountain Range had only managed to reach thete second-rank level under the amplification of the full moon.


    After processing the materials from the demonic beast, Lan Chang''an treated himself to a feast of demonic bird delicacies that evening.


    Ye Fei from Little Pill Peak was invited to join.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, the beast tide¡¯s scale has exceeded expectations. Do you think a small group of demonic beasts mighte over?¡± After eating and drinking, Ye Fei wiped the oil from his mouth and spoke with a tone tinged with worry.


    Demonic beasts had strong physiques, making poisons less effective.


    He didn''t want his newly found ideal spiritual vein site to be ravaged by demonic beasts.


    ¡°It''s hard to say.¡± Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    ¡°Wuqi Mountain is some distance from the front lines. As long as it¡¯s not a big beast tide, the real threat won¡¯t be these demonic beasts.¡±


    Even if a small group of demonic beasts dide through, he was confident he could handle it.


    Little Turtle Peak housed the spiritual trees and herbs Lan Chang''an had cultivated for decades.


    This kind of opportunity to quietly make a fortune is enough for him to stay put despite the small risks.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    As expected, someone came to deliver materials to Lan Chang''an.


    The first to arrive was the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    The representative, a middle-aged schrly man, was Zhou Jingxuan, whom Lan Chang''an had conversed with in Huanglong Immortal City years ago.


    Zhou Jingxuan, in the mid-stage Foundation Establishment, had a few strands of white hair at his temples, he was quite a bit older than Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Long time no see, Fellow Daoist Lan. Your cultivation has advanced even further, worthy of being an inspirational example of ate bloomer.¡±


    Upon seeing Lan Chang''an again, Zhou Jingxuan felt aplex mix of emotions.


    Decades ago, when he, at the early-stage Foundation Establishment, attended the auction at Bamboo Leaf Mountain, Lan Chang''an was an unknown mid-stage Qi-Refining stage talisman master.


    Without realizing it, this person had steadily progressed, advancing one step at a time, until unexpectedly he caught up to him.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhou tters me. I¡¯ve just been lucky not to get stuck at bottlenecks. Advancing to the mid-stage Foundation Establishment after a hundred years is quite mediocre.¡± Lan Chang''an humbly replied with a smile.


    The reason he had caught up to Zhou Jingxuan was not because of fast cultivation. Rather, it was the dilemma that most Foundation Establishment cultivators faced, the lifelong difficulty in advancing to thete stage. Zhou Jingxuan had been stuck at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment for decades.


    Inside the cave mansion, the host and guest took their seats.


    ¡°Miss Zhou from your family, is she at the front lines fighting the demonic beasts?¡± During their chat, Lan Chang''an mentioned Zhou Qingxuan.


    ¡°That''s right. Qingxuan is holding down the fort at the family grounds, contributing more than an uncle like me.¡± Zhou Jingxuan¡¯s self-deprecating tone was tinged with pride and praise.


    ¡°Miss Zhou''s talent for controlling beasts can indeed y a big role in a beast tide.¡± Lan Chang''an also praised her.


    He recalled that Zhou Qingxuan had gained considerable rewards and encounters in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    From Zhou Jingxuan, he learned that Zhou Qingxuan had experienced the trials and tribtions of the beast tide and had recently advanced to thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Lan Chang''an was moved, estimating her age, Zhou Qingxuan was about twenty years younger than himself.


    ¡°Ate Foundation Establishment cultivator under ny.¡± Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but pull up his assessment of this woman.


    The goals of sect elites like Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan were merely to reach thete-stage Foundation Establishment before the age of a hundred, hoping for a chance at Core Formation.


    Zhang Tieshan, with his strong will and possible fortunate encounters, had barely achieved this goal.


    Zhao Siyao had only recently advanced to thete-stage Foundation Establishment in the past two years, and was over a hundred years old, thus failing to meet the goal.


    Of course, Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan were not considered the top geniuses of their sects.


    Liang Kingdom¡¯s major sects had geniuses with earth spiritual roots and it could not be excluded that there were hidden heaven spiritual roots.


    The Nascent Soul True Monarch of the current generation in me Departing Pce was a heaven-grade spiritual root cultivator.


    Given Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s progress, Lan Chang''an would have found it unusual under ordinary circumstances. However, given her encounters in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm and the trials of the beast tide, so to be able to advance to thete stage of Foundation Establishment so smoothly was considered to be a sign of thingsing together.


    ...


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, can you handle this batch of materials from my family?¡± Zhou Jingxuan ced several storage pouches on the table.


    Lan Chang''an examined them one by one, showing surprise.


    These several storage pouches were filled with demonic beast materials suitable for drawing talismans.


    Actually, before the beast tide, Lan Chang''an¡¯s cooperation with the Zhou Family had gradually decreased. The Zhou Family had hired a second-rank talisman master as a retainer in recent years, and their new generation had also grown into some talisman masters talents.


    However, there were too many materials seized from the beast tide for the Zhou Family to digest alone. The pressure of the beast tide was too great to hoard goods.


    Demonic beast materials had to be immediately converted into spirit stones to acquire pills, talismans, magical weapons, and other war resources.


    Combating the beast tide,forting the nsmen, and recruiting cultivators all required a massive amount of spirit stones and war resources.


    ¡°I only need second-rank talisman materials.¡± Lan Chang''an''s face looked troubled.


    Most of the materials in the storage pouches were from first-rank demonic beasts.


    ¡°The price can be lower, paired with excellent second-rank talisman materials for sale.¡± Zhou Jingxuan suggested.


    After some haggling, the two struck a deal worth tens of thousands of spirit stones.


    Lan Chang''an used spirit stones and second-rank talismans at market prices to offset the cost, purchasing first-rank demonic beast materials at a low price and rtively cheap second-rank demonic beast materials from the Zhou Family.


    Most of the first-rank materials were of superior grade, priced at half of what they were before the beast tide.


    The second-rank materials were mostly of low to mid-grade. Low-grade materials were priced at a 30% discount, mid-grade at a 20% discount, and superior-grade at a 10% discount.


    During the beast tide, excess of materials wouldn¡¯t cause talismans to drop in price.


    The current market trend was: material supply exceeded the demand for craftsmen, and the rapid consumption of talismans resulted in higher demand.


    ...


    The transaction was substantial, and Lan Chang''an suggested splitting it into two parts, saying that he would have to cash in by drawing talismans during the period. Zhou Jingxuan had expected this and readily agreed.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an¡¯s current spirit stone reserves could easily handle the transaction in one go.


    After the initial transaction, Zhou Jingxuan left hurriedly.


    As he flew away from Little Turtle Peak.


    Outside Wuqi Mountain, a sturdy, fierce-looking old man with dark skin approached.


    ¡°Elder Zhou.¡± Zheng Centipede smiled and cupped his hands.


    Before the Zheng Family of Bamboo Leaf Mountain was annihted, they had a good rtionship with the Beast Taming Zhou Family and had once married a girl of their family to the Zhou Family as a concubine.


    Zheng Centipede knew Zhou Jingxuan and had visited the Beast Taming Zhou Family after advancing to the Foundation Establishment Realm, though he had been casually dismissed.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s Brother Zheng.¡± Zhou Jingxuan briefly responded and continued on his way without stopping.


    Unbothered by the cold shoulder, Zheng Centipede flew to Little Turtle Peak.


    After reporting his arrival, he was granted entry.


    ...


    In the cave mansion, facing the mid-stage Foundation Establishment Lan Chang''an, Zheng Centipede appeared more respectful than before.


    After some small talk, Zheng Centipede tentatively asked,


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, you must have made a big deal with the Beast Taming Zhou Family for Elder Zhou to pay you a visit personally?¡±


    ¡°Just some demonic beast materials for talisman making.¡± Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t borate.


    His cooperation with the Beast Taming Zhou Family over the years couldn¡¯t be hidden from those paying attention.


    ¡°It¡¯s quite a coincidence. I have some second-rank demonic beast hides. Would you be interested, Fellow Daoist Lan?¡± Zheng Centipede smiled, his facial scars twisting together, looking rather menacing.


    ¡°Second-rank demonic beast hides? How does Brother Zheng wish to trade?¡± Naturally, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t refuse second-rank talisman materials.


    ¡°I prefer to trade for second-rank talismans, especially mid-grade ones. I can offer a lower price.¡± Zheng Centipede presented a storage pouch.


    ¡°Second-rank talismans? I heard someone say that the Zheng Family ¡®hired¡¯ a second-rank talisman master to help draw talismans.¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was teasing.


    Zheng Centipede¡¯s smile turned awkward, and he sighed:


    ¡°Sigh, that scoundrel barely counts as a second-rank talisman master, with lousy skills! He wasted quite a few of my good materials.¡±


    The scoundrel he mentioned was naturally Chen Sheng.


    Two years ago, Zheng Centipede and Chen Sheng had a conflict over disputed properties near the former Chen Family territory.


    Zheng Centipede had crippled one of Chen Sheng¡¯s legs. Afterward, no one spoke up for Chen Sheng, and Fairy Shi had merely insisted on leaving him alive. Zheng Centipede was going to cripple Chen Sheng¡¯s cultivation as well when the opportunity arose.


    Chen Sheng wasn¡¯t foolish; he hid outside for a while.


    When the beast tide hit and talismans were in high demand, Chen Sheng tried to buy talisman materials to earn some spirit stones, only to be caught by Zheng Centipede.


    To save himself, Chen Sheng humbly agreed to work as a talisman ve for the Zheng Family.


    However, Chen Sheng¡¯s skills had long been neglected. While he could make first-rank talismans without issue, his sess rate and quality for second-rank talismans were abysmal.


    ¡°Second-rank talisman masters are rare talents. Brother Zheng should take good care of him.¡± Lan Chang''an kindly advised.


    ¡°I understand.¡± Zheng Centipedeughed heartily.


    In the subsequent transaction, Lan Chang''an traded second-rank talismans, mostly low-grade ones, with only one mid-grade talisman, with the excuse that the Zhou Family had bought the rest.


    The second-rank beast hides from Zheng Centipede were slightly cheaper than those from the Zhou Family.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t question the source of the materials.


    The Zheng Family¡¯s current Apricot Vi was located east of Wuqi Mountain, a little closer to Huanglong Immortal City.


    Zheng Centipede could obtain demonic beast materials through purchases in Huanglong Immortal City or by personally hunting demonic beasts. He could also rob and kill on the way to obtain demonic beast materials.


    With a thought, Lan Chang''an inquired about the specific situation of the beast tide in Huanglong Immortal City and the front lines from Zheng Centipede.


    Zheng Centipede was well-informed, knowing the ins and outs of Huanglong Immortal City.


    He told in detail which city walls had been breached during the beast tide and which direct descendants of Huanglong Mountain had fallen in battle.


    Lan Chang''an suddenly realized that Zheng Centipede was of some use.


    He didn''t want to leave Wuqi Mountain and go to Huanglong Immortal City to take risks, and at the same time, he had to be on guard against Kong Mao, as well as petty criminalsing to raid Wuqi Mountain.


    At present, hecked eyes and ears, as well as someone to run errands for him.

 Chapter 135.1: The Massacre Tragedy

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    ¡°I''m busy drawing talismans at Wuqi Mountain and can''t get away. Can I trouble Fellow Daoist Zheng to run some errands for me¡­?¡± Faced with such a brutish individual, Lan Chang''an spoke directly.


    He needed Zheng Centipede to regrly travel to Huanglong Immortal City on his behalf, procuring high-quality materials for him while simultaneously gathering intelligence from the frontlines.


    This way, Lan Chang''an could stay behind at Wuqi Mountain in peace, gain insight into the situation, and enjoy the benefits of the beast tide.


    As reward, Lan Chang''an offered second-rank talismans and hinted that there was a chance to obtain a mid-Foundation Establishment breakthrough pill through a special channel.


    For Zheng Centipede''s family, every additional second-rank talisman, even a low-grade one, was a rare asset.


    As for the breakthrough pills, they were a luxury beyond the reach of ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    ¡°It is an honor for Zheng.¡± Zheng Centipede stood up and bowed respectfully.


    Regardless of Lan Chang''an''s cultivation, reputation, or the skills and connections he possessed, Zheng Centipede both admired and feared him.Lan Chang''an could trade on equal terms with the Zhou Family. Whereas Zheng Centipede wasn''t even qualified to have a proper conversation with them.


    Zheng Centipede sought Lan Chang''an for this transaction not only for the quality of his talismans but also to deepen their rtionship. Lan Chang''an''s proposal was akin to providing a pillow to someone about to doze off.


    The two discussed further details, after which Zheng Wugong left with the spirit stones Lan Chang''an had given him.


    ...


    In the following period, Lan Chang''an spent much time drawing talismans.


    There were too many materials, so he had to select the best.


    Each talisman master''s daily energy was limited, and the number of talismans they could draw was fixed. This didn''t include the time spent on cultivation andprehending spells.


    If one drew more than their limit, it could lead to mental exhaustion, requiring several days to recover before they could work again.


    The same applied to other skills such as alchemy and artifact crafting.


    This was why, during a beast tide, despite abundant materials, there often wasn''t enoughbat supplies to meet demand.


    Lan Chang''an''s cultivation of the Evergreen Technique endowed him with lengthened qi veins and strong recovery ability, giving him an advantage in this aspect, but it still had its limitations.


    In the past two months, the number of cultivatorsing to Little Turtle Peak to buy talismans increased sharply, and sales skyrocketed.


    Most of these cultivators were from surrounding families, markets, and itinerant merchants. The talismans bought from Lan Chang''an could be sold on the front lines for a slight profit.


    The first-rank puppets that were originally bundled with each set of talismans sold out ahead of schedule. Crafting puppets took more time, and Lan Chang''an was unwilling to make more.


    Unknowingly, Lan Chang''an earned over ten thousand spirit stones from selling talismans during this beast tide. This doesn''t even count the materials and high-quality talismans he hoarded.


    "It''s time to take it easy."


    Lan Chang''an used the reason that his reserves were depleted to reduce the output.


    In fact, there was no need for Lan Chang''an to deliberately limit the sales, as more stray demonic beasts came to wreak havoc in the rear, most of the cultivators in the surrounding area retreated back to their spiritual veins residences.


    It was precisely to prepare for this very scenario that those cultivators stocked up heavily on battle resources beforehand.


    The poprity of Wuqi Mountain plummeted, and they asionally had to clear the sporadic invading beasts.


    ...


    One day, Zheng Centipede returned from Huanglong Immortal City, bringing materials for second-rank mid and superior-grade talismans. In the past, these were normally difficult to obtain through regr channels.


    He also brought relevant information from the frontlines.


    "The beast tide has entered its second half, and the front line is in a stalemate. Thousands of cultivators in Huanglong Immortal City have been killed or wounded. To avoid further losses, some of the beasts are deliberately being drawn to the rear¡­¡±


    ¡°There is another matter unrted to the beast tide.¡±


    Zheng Centipede thought for a moment and added.


    "The Fox Valley near Wuqi Mountain recently suffered a mass murder. A married couple in the Foundation Establishment Realm, along with dozens of disciples including several children, were plundered, and all died tragically."


    "Fox Valley?"


    The mention of the massacre caught Lan Chang''an''s attention.


    Fox Valley, about five to six hundred li from Wuqi Mountain, was a second-rank high-grade spirit vein site.


    Years ago, when Lan Chang''an was surveying spirit vein sites, he had considered Fox Valley but gave up due to the high rental price. A high-grade spiritual vein would have been wasted on him.


    Over the years, Fox Valley had been leased by an elderly Foundation Establishment couple from the me Departing Pce. This couple both had skills, being a second-rank superior-grade artifact refiner and a second-rank mid-grade musician.


    "The details of the Fox Valley massacre are not well known to me. It is rumored that the perpetrators broke in from the inside and were suspected to be a small group of hidden rogue cultivators, with several Foundation Establishment cultivators involved."


    Zheng Centipede exined all the information he knew.


    "From the inside?"


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes flickered.


    During the beast tide, many opportunistic rogue cultivators and insidious individuals took advantage of the chaos.


    However, the situation in Fox Valley was different. The Foundation Establishment couple from the me Departing Pce had mid tote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation, stronger than most loose cultivators of the same level, and were quite wealthy.


    Additionally, the background of the me Departing Pce would deter ordinary rogue cultivators from targeting them, nor would they have the ability to infiltrate.


    ¡°By the way, is there any progress on the intelligence about ¡®Kong Mao¡¯?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    This was the second time Zheng Centipede was bringing back information.


    ¡°No, Kong Mao went hunting beasts a few months ago and is nowhere to be found. At least in Huanglong Immortal City, there is no new information.¡± Zheng Centipede answered.


    During the beast tide, such cases of hunters not returning weremon, typically indicating no further hope for them.


    ¡°No need to focus on this person¡¯s information anymore.¡±


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly, having already deduced the general outline of events.


    Fox Valley and Wuqi Mountain had one thing inmon:


    The cultivators in charge are both craftsmen and are worth a lot of money.


    If one were to decide which was easier and less risky to target, it would definitely be Wuqi Mountain.


    The Foundation Establishment couple in Fox Valley were stronger and had a more powerful background, being cultivators from the me Departing Pce.


    ¡°Kong Mao initially tried to infiltrate Wuqi Mountain but failed.¡±


    Later on, I reinforced the formations and security, which might have deterred him, causing him to shift his target.¡±


    If Lan Chang''an''s spection was correct, Fox Valley bore the cmity that was meant for Wuqi Mountain.


    A year ago, when selecting the peak master, If it weren''t for him merging with the second life imprint of the Nine Seal Stele, and using immortal-level spiritual sense to probe, it would have been impossible to notice that Kong Mao had hidden his cultivation.


    ...


    After Zheng Centipede left, Lan Chang''an sent a sound transmission to Little Pill Peak, inviting Ye Fei over to inform him about the Fox Valley massacre. He did not, however, share his spections regarding Kong Mao.


    Upon hearing the news, Ye Fei felt a chill down his spine.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, it was foresight to have Fairy Shi reinforce the formation defenses a year ago," he remarked with relief.


    "Fortunately, the notorious rogue cultivator group thatmitted this atrocity will undoubtedly be hunted down by the me Departing Pce. They won''t dare linger nearby and will likely go into hiding for a while."


    "True, but we can''t let our guard down," Lan Chang''an agreed.


    During the beast tide, the focus of the major powers was divided, leaving room for petty criminals to take advantage of the chaos.


    ...


    A few dayster, Wuqi Mountain faced a minor threat.


    A small group of beasts had slipped through a "gap" in the front lines andunched an attack on their spirit vein site.


    Leading the beast group was a six or seven zhang long, muscr, double-headed demon. One head spewed purple mes, and the other exhaled freezing gas beams.


    "Double-headed demon lion! A mid-second-rank demonic beast, a top-ss beast among the superior-grade bloodline," Ye Fei noted seriously from Little Pill Peak as he activated the mountain''s defensive formation.


    The double-headed demon lion was significantly stronger than the average mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Nearly a hundred first-rank mid tote-stage beasts also joined the assault on Wuqi Mountain.


    Apart from the three main peaks, Wuqi Mountain had a number of loose cultivators attached to it, including the steward, Lan Lin.


    These loose cultivators had set up two formation strongholds, which were also under attack by some of the demonic beasts.


    Roar!


    The double-headed demon lion let out a terrifying roar and actually chose to attack the defenseless Xiao Pan Peak. Most of the beast group also shifted their focus to Xiao Pan Peak.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan," Ye Fei called out as he and Lan Chang''an flew into the sky for a quick discussion.


    "Though no one guards Xiao Pan Peak, the formation set up by Fairy Shi is strong. It won''t break easily. Let''s first clean up the scattered demonic beasts in the surrounding area first," Lan Chang''an suggested.


    "Agreed!"


    Ye Fei, riding his light beam, began clearing the scattered beasts near Little Pill Peak.


    Whizz! Hiss!


    He controlled a set of needle-shaped top superior-grade magical weapons, sixteen grayish needles, that shed through the first-rank mid tote-stage demonic beasts.


    The needle-shaped tools were highly poisonous, capable of instantly killing thete-stage first-rank beasts, showcasing terrifying lethality.


    "Fellow Daoist Ye, save some strength. A mid-second-rank beast poses no real threat to Wuqi Mountain," Lan Chang''an reminded.


    In reality, such rear spirit vein strongholds rarely faced direct breaches by beasts. The real threat, instead, was the fellow cultivators who took advantage of the danger.


    Squeak! Squeak!


    A robust and agile orange-purple demon rat emerged from a cave halfway up Little Turtle Peak.


    Its shadow streaked past, leaving blood stters as it tore through the nearby first-rank scattered demonic beasts, their throats were slit and their stomachs ripped open, and those further away were impaled by earth spikes one after another.


    The double-headed demon lion roared in shock, changing its direction to attack the Earth Burrowing Rat, leading the beast group.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat swiftly dodged the purple mes and freezing gas beams.


    Both were mid-second-rank, but in a head-on fight, the Earth Burrowing Rat was no match for the double-headed demon lion.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, let''s lure the double-headed demon lion here and take it down together," Ye Fei proposed as he finished off the nearby beasts around Little Pill Peak.


    By now, only about twenty to thirty scattered beasts remained on the mountain, manageable by the loose cultivators.


    Boom!


    The double-headed demon lion approached Little Pill Peak and suddenly fell into a poison trap.


    The ground copsed, piercing its flesh with sharp iron spikes, releasing a cloud of ck poison that enveloped it.


    The double-headed demon lion''s high resistance to poison only slightly slowed it down as both its heads spewed purple mes and freezing gas beams.


    Lan Chang''an nimbly dodged, his body shielded by a cyan-colored protective barrier.


    He then summoned the supreme-grade magical weapon, the Vajra Bell.


    Buzz! Boom!


    A golden bell, intricately patterned, expanded to six or seven zhang and descended from the sky, pressing the demon lion''s body halfway down.


    As Wuqi Mountain''s only mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator on-site, Lan Chang''an couldn''t afford to ck off.


    "Well done, Fellow Daoist Lan," Ye Fei praised as he maneuvered the set of needle-shaped magic weapons and took advantage of the situation to attack the soft parts of the double-headed demon lion.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat burrowed underground, and cast earth-element spells.


    The ground beneath the demon lion rose into steep hills, forming a dualyer entrapment with the Vajra Bell above.


    Roar!


    The double-headed demon lion roared in rage, its eyes glowing red as it frantically rammed the bell above its head. The bell''s light flickered erratically.


    Had it not been for the Evergreen Technique''s unceasing stream of mana, the demon lion might have broken free.


    They only needed to wear it down for a bit longer to ensure the steady defeat of the nearlyte-second-rank double-headed demon lion.


    ...


    This chapter was twice the usual length, so I divided it into two.

 Chapter 135.2: The Massacre Tragedy

    "Watch out! Cultivators approaching."


    Lan Chang''an''s peripheral vision caught sight of two figures sneaking towards Wuqi Mountain.


    Two unfamiliar Foundation Establishment cultivators, taking advantage of the battle''s noise, were quietly approaching. Both were d in gray robes and wearing bamboo hats, their faces obscured, though it was clear one was an old man and the other middle-aged.


    Ye Fei''s heart skipped a beat. He wouldn''t have noticed if not for Lan Chang''an''s warning.


    It seemed that Lan Chang''an had been holding back during battle, keeping a close eye on Wuqi Mountain''s surroundings this entire time.


    Just then¡ª


    Whoosh!


    From the distant sky, a crimson glow streaked through the air.


    The two gray-robed Foundation Establishment cultivators looked up, their faces changing drastically."Not good! Cultivators from the me Departing Pce!


    "Quickly retreat¡­¡±


    The two swiftly fled into the nearby forest.


    The crimson glow drew nearer, revealing itself to be a scarlet iron ship.


    On either side of the ship''s hull were carvings of me patterns made of small droplets of me, a distinctive mark of the me Departing Pce''s exclusive flying magical weapon.


    On the scarlet iron ship stood two Foundation Establishment cultivators from the me Departing Pce, a man and a woman.


    The tall, imposing young man hadte Foundation Establishment cultivation, while the elegant woman in a green dress beside him had mid-Foundation Establishment cultivation.


    They flew over Wuqi Mountain, observing Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei locked in the final struggle against the double-headed demon.


    The double-headed demon was at itsst gasp.


    The imposing young man, after a moment of hesitation, summoned a ming long sword weapon.


    Whoosh!


    A crimson beam of light descended from the sky, piercing through the double-headed demon''s head.


    Seeing this, Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, they are from the me Departing Pce," Ye Fei whispered in awe as he looked up at the scarlet ship overhead.


    "Greetings, Fellow Daoist friends of Wuqi Mountain. I am Gao Cheng, an inspection cultivator from the me Departing Pce''s Law Enforcement Hall. We are here to investigate the Fox Valley massacre." The imposing young man in thete Foundation Establishment introduced himself.


    "This is my junior sister, Zhuang Wenjing."


    The green-dressed woman on his side nodded her head haughtily.


    "So it''s the honored cultivators from the me Departing Pce."


    Lan Chang''an respectfully greeted them, and both sides exchanged pleasantries.


    The me Departing Pce was a Nascent Soul-level power in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, and their cultivators traveling outsidemanded high respect.


    "Honored cultivators, may I invite you to Little Turtle Peak? Fellow Daoist Ye and I can cooperate with your investigation." Lan Chang''an extended his hand in invitation.


    The double-headed demon''s corpse was left for the loose cultivators below to handle.


    Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei prepared to head to Little Turtle Peak.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, the two of us have limited time. We won''t be visiting your residence." Gao Cheng declined tly.


    Zhuang Wenjing, who was on the side, showed impatience, seemingly not wanting to mix with the two loose cultivators.


    "Discussing here is fine too." Lan Chang''an''s expression looked unnatural.


    "Please examine the information in this jade slip, then answer my questions."


    Gao Cheng opened his palm to reveal an item.


    A sudden cold gleam!


    A phantom of a dagger, like a lurking viper, shot towards Lan Chang''an with lightning speed.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan!" Ye Fei eximed, his hair standing on end.


    Ding!


    A blue crystal dagger struck the golden bell, breaking through its outer shield and leaving a dented mark.


    The golden bell was almost in front of Lan Chang''an in advance, as if it was prepared to activate beforehand.


    "When did you figure it out?" Gao Cheng''s blow fell short, his face was gloomy, and he let out a hoarse voice that didn''t match his valiant appearance.


    "I didn''t see any obvious ws."


    Lan Chang''an calmly pped a top superior-grade defensive talisman to himself, speaking matter-of-factly:


    "We''ve never met, and you refused to visit Little Turtle Peak. How could I trust you?"


    Little Turtle Peak had a mountain protection formation; it was Lan Chang''an''s home turf.


    ...


    Whoosh!


    After Gao Cheng''s failed strike, Zhuang Wenjing turned into a faint pink mist, positioning herself behind Lan Chang''an.


    e Foundation Establishment, and one mid-Foundation Establishment, nked Lan Chang''an from front and back. Yet, they paid no attention to Ye Fei.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, let''s run in different directions!"


    Ye Fei''s heart lifted, pping a mid-second-rank escape talisman onto himself, transforming into a gust of wind and fleeing in the opposite direction.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression twitched, not expecting to be so targeted.


    He doubted Ye Fei would be able to escape easily.


    ...


    Ye Fei had only fled a few li when¡ª


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Two gray figures emerged from beyond Wuqi Mountain, blocking his path.


    It was the two gray-robed, bamboo hat-wearing cultivators from earlier, an old man and a middle-aged man.


    The old man had mid-Foundation Establishment cultivation, his face withered.


    The middle-aged man was at the early-stage Foundation Establishment, and he was performing the puppet control technique.


    A fierce wind howled, and a second-rank flying eagle puppet hovered menacingly above Ye Fei.


    "Is this all to target me?" Ye Fei was like a bereaved child, the corner of his mouth shivering.


    This situation was as if facing two mid-Foundation Establishment cultivators all alone, even more dangerous than Lan Chang''an''s predicament. Lan Chang''an, at least, had a second-rank spirit pet to assist him.


    "Herbalist Ye, cooperate and surrender, and we might spare your life." The middle-aged man spoke calmly.


    "What do you want me to do?" Ye Fei forced a smile, secretly preparing his hand.


    "Don''t be ignorant!"


    The two gray-robed men held their breath, gripping anti-poison talismans, ayer of water membrane covering their bodies.


    The water membrane was covered in ayer of neutralized colorless poison, hissing softly.


    Their faces darkened as they controlled their magical weapons and puppets to attack from a distance, forcing Ye Fei into a sorry state.


    Using the mountain''s terrain, Ye Fei rolled and dodged, activating defensive magical weapons and talismans to barely hold on.


    He vaguely sensed that these two wanted to capture him alive, and held back their full strength.


    ...


    Compared to Ye Fei''s miserable struggle, the battle on Lan Chang''an''s side was quite different.


    He neither fled nor counterattacked.


    The Evergreen mana entirely maintained the Vajra Bell, transforming it into arge bell covering him.


    ng! ng!


    Gao Cheng wielded a massive golden-blue axe, each strike causing the golden bell''s surface to dim and leaving shallow marks.


    "Let''s see how long you can block."


    He grasped at the air, summoning a cluster of blood mes onto the golden bell, spreading and burning.


    The golden bell''s glow rapidly dimmed, eroding into a pitted surface.


    Seeing this, Lan Chang''an activated a superior-grade talisman, an ice-blue barrier reinforcing the golden bell, slowing the blood mes'' destruction.


    "I just need to hold out longer than yourpanion."


    Lan Chang''an remained unflustered, his Evergreen mana was plentiful, giving him a clear advantage in this situation.


    Moreover, he wasn''t worried about damaging the supreme-grade magical weapon; he had several more in his storage pouch, albeit all stolen goods.


    Besides the supreme-grade magical weapons, he still had a turtle puppet he hadn''t taken out.


    "Master, help me!" Not far away, Zhuang Wenjing screamed.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat and a wolf-headed humanoid puppet were attacking her from front and back.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat''s bloodline had mutated, and not only did it know earth spells, but it was also extremely agile, and it woulde in close and pounce on her from time to time.


    The mid-second-rank wolf-headed puppet carried three silver-ck spears on its back, wielding two in both hands, which dragged arcs of electricity as they stabbed toward Zhuang Wenjing from near and far.


    The spears could be thrown and retrieved over a certain distance.


    Under the double assault, Zhuang Wenjing''s defensive magical weapon''s glow dimmed, and her protective barrier shattered.


    Whoosh!


    A spear scraped her leg, leaving a bloody gash.


    "Ugh¡­"


    Zhuang Wenjing''s body stiffened, her pale leg turning ck and red.


    The spears were poisoned!


    "Yue''er!" Gao Cheng shouted angrily, his voice raspy.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an''s reveal of a mid-second-rank puppet was unexpected but still tolerable.


    He had aimed for a swift victory, using a strategy to capture or kill Lan Chang''an, the master of the puppet and pet.


    Despite losing his greatest card in the Fox Valley battle, Gao Cheng believed in histe Foundation Establishment strength,bined with his blood me secret technique.


    Zhuang Wenjing also believed she could hold off the Earth Burrowing Rat and puppet for a while.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, with only a mid-grade bloodline,cked offensive power.


    As for the mid-second-rank puppet, its owner had to deal with thete stage of Foundation Establishment, so how muchbat power could it exert?


    However, Gao Cheng underestimated Lan Chang''an''s "Turtle Talisman Master" defensive abilities.


    Zhuang Wenjing underestimated the Earth Burrowing Rat and Wolf-Headed Spear Puppet''s strength.


    These misjudgments led to an irreversible regret.


    Whoosh!


    Gao Cheng, enraged, flew to rescue Zhuang Wenjing.


    ng!


    Lan Chang''an activated the Vajra Bell''s sound wave, shaking Gao Cheng''s qi and blood, causing a slight dy.


    He formed a hand seal, causing thorny vines to sprout from the nearby mountain, either entangling Gao Cheng''s legs or blocking his path.


    "Ah¡­"


    On the other side, Zhuang Wenjing screamed, immobilized by poison, and was torn open by the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Thud!


    The wolf-headed humanoid puppet thrust a spear through her abdomen.


    "Yue''er!"


    Seeing this, Gao Cheng''s blood surged, blood seeping from his mouth as he coughed.


    "Your injuries aren''t healed, and you daree to attack my Wuqi Mountain?" Lan Chang''an squinted, seeing through his opponent.


    ...

 Chapter 136: Fake Dan Immortal

    Read 10 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Ugh! Junior, you killed Yue''er. This hatred, old me will someday..."


    Gao Cheng''s gaze was venomous, his once heroic face now issuing a hoarse, cold voice.


    Boom! Crack!


    As he spoke, a surge of powerful mana erupted from within him, shattering the thorny vines around him.


    "Stay!"


    Lan Chang''an saw the light forming under Gao Cheng''s feet.


    Gao Cheng''s old injuries red up. As a wanted rogue cultivator, he knew he couldn''t afford a prolonged battle with Lan Chang''an, who was as tough as a tortoise shell.


    Lan Chang''an was in the mid-stage Foundation Establishment, andbined with his mid second-rank spirit pet and puppet, ordinaryte Foundation Establishment cultivators stood no chance of winning against him.Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat and the Wolf-Headed Spear Puppet quickly nked from both sides.


    Lan Chang''an, the Earth Burrowing Rat, and the Wolf-headed Puppet formed a triangr encirclement.


    However, repelling ate Foundation Establishment cultivator and killing one were entirely different levels of difficulty.


    "These numbers can''t stop me." Gao Cheng sneered confidently, charging directly at the Wolf-headed Puppet.


    Crack!


    The spear thrown by the Wolf-headed Puppet was cleaved in two by a massive golden-blue axe engulfed in blood mes.


    With a palm strike, Gao Cheng sent a dark blood-colored beam of light, crashing into the Wolf-headed Puppet, causing its scales to crack and shatter.


    At this moment, the Earth Burrowing Rat began gathering strong earth-spirit energy.


    Whoosh!


    A swirling vortex of yellow sand, covering over ten zhang in diameter, enveloped Gao Cheng.


    Gao Cheng''s brute-force attempt at breaking through was shattered by the Earth Burrowing Rat''s Sandstorm Technique, causing his speed to plummet instantly.


    The protective barrier around him grated against the rapidly spinning sand, creating an ear-piercing noise akin to nails on a chalkboard.


    "Hmm?"


    Gao Cheng suddenly sensed something and saw Lan Chang''an''s mana surging by more than fifty percent.


    In the two or three breaths of his breakout attempt, Lan Chang''an swallowed a "Blood Yang Pill."


    This pill, obtained from Alchemist Hua, could significantly enhance the mana of a Foundation Establishment cultivator for a short time.


    Lan Chang''an took the Blood Yang Pill, because he was unwilling to reveal his true trump cards.


    This battle was different from the past. There were rogue cultivators observing at Wuqi Mountain, and there might be others spying in the surroundings.


    Moreover, the Blood Yang Pill had a high cost-efficiency when used in the mid-stage Foundation Establishment, boosting mana by fifty percent. For ate Foundation Establishment cultivator, the effect would be halved.


    He had three of these pills, so there was no need to be overly frugal.


    Whoosh!


    With his mana increased by a margin, Lan Chang''an flew on a green light, pursuing the trapped Gao Cheng who was in the grasp of the Sandstorm Technique.


    He formed hand seals, his throat and cheeks bulging, his eyes shing with spiritual light.


    Opening his mouth, he let out a roar.


    Boom!


    A thunderous sound resonated above Gao Cheng''s head, shaking his soul.


    Instantly, his eardrums went numb, his blood and qi trembled, his mind roared, and his body spasmed momentarily.


    "Thunder Roar Technique? Such a cunning junior¡ª"


    Gao Cheng''s eyes turned cold as his internal mana became chaotic, his blood and qi roiling.


    Whoosh!


    He wobbled, spitting out a mouthful of clotted blood.


    Lan Chang''an''s "Thunder Roar Technique" was difficult to master at the Foundation Establishment Realm, but not an absolute secret. Its power mainly depended on the caster''s mana and spiritual sense. It could shake the target''s mind, disturb mana and qi, and affect internal organs.


    If it were a fully healthyte Foundation Establishment cultivator, even with Lan Chang''an''s mana boost of fifty percent, the effect would be limited, and it didn''t help that the technique was very draining.


    However, Gao Cheng''s old wounds hadn''t healed, and the previous battle had once again aggravated them.


    At this moment, this "Thunder Roar Technique" was akin to salt on a wound, achieving a significantly amplified effect. Gao Cheng''s internal injuries not only resurfaced but also worsened.


    ...


    Sizzle!


    Just as Gao Cheng recovered from the "Thunder Roar Technique," the protective barrier around him was worn down by the yellow sand, scraping off ayer of bloody flesh.


    The Wolf-headed Puppet threw another spear, crackling with lightning.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, leaving behind an afterimage, struck at Gao Cheng''s back with dark ws. The power of a mid second-rank demonic beast, if this w hit, evente-stage Foundation Establishment human cultivators could not afford it.


    Gao Cheng''s heart pounded, his golden-blue axe blocking the spear from the side. Simultaneously, he summoned a beast-skin shield, which glowed with a ck aura, deflecting the Earth Burrowing Rat''s ws.


    With his injuries worsening, Gao Cheng''s strength dropped by thirty percent. Juggling two supreme-grade magical weapons, facing attacks from both front and back, he was no longer as rxed.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat and Wolf-headed Puppet swung their ws and jabbed their spears relentlessly.


    Lan Chang''an cast a wood spell, thick thorny vines surrounded and wrapped around his body. At the same time, he alsounched four or five second-rank attack talismans in session, including a second-rank superior-grade Lightning Talisman.


    Gao Cheng''s two supreme-grade magical weapons quickly dimmed and shattered.


    "Scram!"


    Amidst the chaotic light, a muffled groan turned into a roar.


    A massive blood me explosion,parable to the peak of Foundation Establishment power, obliterated the surrounding attacks.


    The Wolf-headed Puppet''s body was half-melted.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was sent flying backward, its yellow aura dissipating, leaving several corrosive wounds.


    Whoosh!


    A severely injured, gaunt old man, his breath weak, fled towards the outskirts of Wuqi Mountain on a blood-red light.


    At this moment, Gao Cheng''s disguise was shattered.


    His old face, like cracked tree bark, bore some resemnce to the previous "Kong Mao."


    Lan Chang''an could not yet confirm his true name or identity.


    "Using conventional means to kill ate Foundation Establishment cultivator head-on is still very difficult." Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly, putting away the damaged puppet.


    "Retreat!"


    As Gao Cheng flew out of Wuqi Mountain, he shouted towards Little Pill Peak, without looking back.


    At that location, there should have been the two Foundation Establishment henchmen, an old man and a middle-aged man in gray robes. However, there was no response.


    Lan Chang''an nced over, revealing a look of surprise.


    Ye Fei, pale and covered in blood,y exhausted on Little Pill Peak. At the foot of the mountain were two corpses, their bodies poisoned, oozing pus. Blue-ck poison bugs crawled out of their orifices.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, be careful. I suspect..." Ye Fei transmitted his voice.


    "Mm."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, flying towards the injured old man.


    At this point, Gao Cheng was severely wounded, his mana had dropped by half. Even if he used secret techniques to enhance his escape speed, Lan Chang''an''s Blood Yang Pill effect could ensure he could keep up and not be left behind. If he used a second-rank superior-grade eleration talisman, he had a chance to catch up.


    Lan Chang''an decided to not rush headlong into a bloody confrontation; instead, he would exhaust the enemy first.


    Squeak!


    Lan Chang''an beckoned the Earth Burrowing Rat and flew out of Wuqi Mountain.


    "Did you memorize that person''s aura?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    To prevent the target from escaping his sight, he had instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat to sniff Gao Cheng''s lingering aura.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat nodded, and with a fawning face, it opened its mouth and spat out a nearly transparent ultra-thin mask, whose material was simr to silicone.


    Lan Chang''an took the ultra-thin mask, puzzled.


    This item must have been dropped by Gao Cheng in his desperate escape. If it were an ordinary magical weapon, Lan Chang''an would have noticed it long ago. Instead, it had been overlooked.


    He released his spiritual sense to inspect the mask, eximing in surprise.


    His spiritual sense felt as if it entered a void, finding nothing.


    "This mask deceives and hides from spiritual senses, making it easy to ignore its existence."


    As Lan Chang''an delved deeper with his spiritual sense, he caught a hint of an ancient, eerie energy.


    "This item is not simple."


    He quickly put away the ultra-thin mask, observing his surroundings. No one seemed to have noticed. Even if someone unintentionally saw it, their senses would ignore its existence.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an chased after him for dozens of li.


    The gaunt old man ahead, realizing he couldn''t shake him off, gritted his teeth and changed direction.


    Lan Chang''an pondered.


    Earlier, Ye Fei had transmitted to him that this group of rogue cultivators likely had a key figure who was seriously injured.


    Ye Fei''s ability to kill two Foundation Establishment cultivators in a desperate situation was only partly due to his own trump cards.


    Those two seemed to want to capture him alive for his skills as an herbalist, which gave Ye Fei a chance to strike back. Additionally, the gray-robed old man in the mid-stage Foundation Establishment also seemed to be injured.


    Ye Fei thus surmised that this group of robbing cultivators, in the Fox Valley massacre tragedy, had an important person who was injured and which was why they were looking for a cultivator with medical skills.


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment and decided to continue pursuing Gao Cheng.


    This person possessed a mysterious mask for disguise and was likely the one who was responsible for infiltrating from the inside in their operations, and should be the core of the group, which posed a greater threat.


    If there was indeed a seriously injured key member needing a medicinal master''s treatment, it meant that the injuries were severe.


    Without proper care, they would likely die or suffer significant damage to their foundations, reducing their lifespan, their cultivation realm falling, etc...


    Just as Lan Chang''an formed this conclusion, his heart suddenly jolted, and he turned toward the distant horizon.


    ...


    Huff!


    The clouds billowed and twisted, dyed red by dusk''s glow, as a heavy spirit pressure suffused the area.


    "Core power aura? Fake-Dan Immortal!"


    Lan Chang''an paused in his pursuit.


    "Vile thief!"


    A rotund old Taoist appeared overhead, looming over Gao Cheng like a towering mountain.


    His scathing rebuke sounded like thunder.


    Pfft!


    Gao Cheng coughed up blood, his figure falling to the ground like a kite with its string cut.


    The rotund old Taoist''s palm made an empty grab, transforming the core power into an invisible giant hand that enveloped Gao Cheng.


    "Haha... Even if you''re an Immortal, you cannot capture this old man alive." Gao Cheng''s ghastly face twisted into a savage smile.


    Fling!


    He circted what remained of his spiritual energy, shattering his internal organs and severing his veins, then copsed dead on the spot.


    The rotund old Taoist snorted coldly, his gaze shifting toward the young man d in white who had been pursuing Gao Cheng.


    As soon as the Fake-Dan Immortal appeared, Lan Chang''an halted in ce, taking medicinal pills to restore his depleted mana and vital essence.


    This Immortal had already discovered him.


    As a pursuer, if Lan Chang''an left with trepidation, it would only raise the other party''s suspicions.


    "I, Wuqi Mountain Peak Master Lan Chang''an, greet the Immortal."


    Lan Chang''an did not retreat but instead moved forward, slightly stiffly cupping his hands and bowing in greeting.


    At this time, me Departing Pce''s vermilion flying boat appeared behind the plump old Taoist, carrying several mid-tote Foundation Establishment cultivators of the me Departing Pce.


    "Fortunately, senior from me Departing Pce arrived just in time to y this viin. Dare I ask how the immortal is addressed?"


    Having confirmed his identity, Lan Chang''an secretly let out a sigh of relief.


    "My Dao name is Hong Song," the wide-robed old Taoist replied mildly, reaching across the distance to snatch the storage pouches from Gao Cheng''s body.


    "So you''re Hong Song Immortal."


    Lan Chang''an''s eyelid twitched slightly, ncing at those bags, then stopping himself from speaking up. He could pretend he hadn''t seen them, but that would show too much heart on his part.


    Logically speaking, Gao Cheng had been severely injured by him, falling below critical condition; it was unlikely for him to escape such a cmity. Lan Chang''an had contributed the majority of the work in acquiring these spoils, while the me Departing Pce Fake-Dan Immortal had merelye over to finish him off.


    "Junior is not bad, was he injured by you?"


    Hong Song Immortal noticed Lan Chang''an''s expression and smiled. "This junior was just fortunate. The man had old injuries that resurfaced during the battle on Wuqi Mountain. This junior took a medicinal pill to enhance mana, then used it with a second-rank spirit pet and puppet to barely defeat him." Lan Chang''an modestly replied.


    Hong Song Immortal pondered a little before nodding slightly.


    The information me Departing Pce received said that the leader of this group of rogue cultivators had sustained injuries in the battle at Fox Valley, and the prototype of the magical treasure in his hands was also damaged.


    Fox Valley''ste-stage Foundation Establishment artifact refiner was quite wealthy, he even possessed a talismanic treasure with good power.


    "In order to deal with this cmity, the second-rank mid-grade puppet that I purchased at a high price was nearly scrapped."


    Lan Chang''an bitterlyughed as he produced the Wolf-Headed Puppet whose body had been almost entirely melted away.


    As Hong Song Immortal watched the miserable Lan Chang''an, he couldn''t help butugh. "Junior, for assisting me Departing Pce in capturing this ringleader, this Immortal will not swallow your share of the spoils."

 Chapter 137: Prototype Magical Treasure

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Senior, your noble character and wisdom are truly admirable."


    Lan Chang''an''s expression rxed as heplimented.


    It wasn''t that he was dead set on getting the spoils of battle. He had paid a considerable price to kill Gao Cheng and couldn''t just let it go without a word. At the very least, he had to y the pity card and try to get somepensation.


    Cultivators at any level would act ording to the situation.


    If he feared the Fake-Dan Immortal and stayed silent, the other party might think him an easy target. They could either swallow the spoils whole or give a symbolic bit ofpensation.


    Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, even a Fake-Dan Immortal had to maintain some face.


    ying the pity card and staying silent often made a huge difference.


    Hong Song Immortal did not immediately open the storage pouch but asked with a straight face:"Other than this ringleader, are there any other remnants?"


    "There are three more who have fallen at Wuqi Mountain. Two of them were killed by Herbalist Ye of Little Pill Peak using poison. ording to Fellow Daoist Ye, there might be another critically injured key figure¡­"


    Lan Chang''an answered truthfully, helping me Departing Pce capture the remnants, effectively clearing up potential future threats for himself as well.


    He pointed out the direction Gao Cheng fled initially, suspecting that the injured person was in that direction, he had changed direction midway upon realizing Lan Chang''an was pursuing him.


    "Very well, you did a good job."


    Hong Song Immortal nodded, and turned to the elite Foundation Establishment cultivators of me Departing Pce behind him, transmitting his voice to exin the clues so that they could take action.


    Whoosh whoosh whoosh!


    Those mid-tote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators flew off.


    Only Hong Song Immortal and Lan Chang''an remained.


    ...


    Only then did Hong Song Immortal check the storage pouch and break the restriction.


    His eyebrows raised slightly, and a smile appeared at the corner of his mouth, his expression much friendlier.


    "Little friend Lan, how about we split the spoils fifty-fifty?"


    "I have no objections, Senior."


    Lan Chang''an was taken aback, somewhat surprised.


    Although he had contributed the most in this battle, heavily wounding and repelling this rogue cultivator group''s head, the final move was ultimately made by the Fake-Dan Immortal, and their levels and status were not equal.


    To be able to split the spoils fifty-fifty showed that the other party had good character.


    "However, I must rify that a significant portion of the items in these storage pouches were looted from my fellow sect members and are stolen goods." Hong Song Immortal''s tone changed as he exined.


    "I must take these items back to me Departing Pce to give to their descendants or be handled by the sect."


    "Our fifty-fifty split will exclude these items."


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an had no words to retort.


    Moments ago, he thought he hade across a very conscientious and noble Fake-Dan Immortal. But now it was basically up to Hong Song Immortal to decide which portions of this bountiful loot constituted stolen goods belonging to me Departing Pce members and which could be distributed as spoils.


    It went without saying that Hong Song Immortal would only take a part of these items back to ount for the victims and exin to the superiors, and the rest would go into his pockets.


    Lan Chang''an, who assisted in killing the main culprit, was credited greatly, and Hong Song Immortal openly shared "half the spoils."


    For a Fake-Dan Immortal, this was already quite generous. When outsiders learn of it, they would praise him as fair and noble.


    Momentster, Hong Song Immortal concentrated the spoils that could be fairly divided into one storage pouch.


    "These spoils, we will each take half. Little friend Lan, you may choose one item first."


    Hong Song Immortal opened the storage pouch and spoke forthrightly.


    "Thank you for your generosity, Senior."


    Lan Chang''an nodded and examined the spoils in the storage pouch.


    Based on his rough estimation, the value of all the items in the bag was just slightly better than that of an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an ignored the spirit stones, magical weapons, and pills. In the end, his gaze fell on a broken ck-gold scimitar.


    Even if this ck-gold scimitar were intact, it appeared in, like a roughly sketched piece of art yet to be finely carved.


    "A prototype magical treasure." Lan Chang''an''s heart was moved.


    "Senior, may I choose this item?"


    He pointed to the broken prototype magical treasure.


    "Your cultivation is not yet at thete-stage Foundation Establishment Realm. A prototype magical treasure is not of much use to you now. After choosing this item you won''t be able to take much of the other items in the storage pouch." Hong Song Immortal was slightly surprised and nodded in confirmation.


    A Fake-Dan Immortal could already wield low-grade magical treasures. But a damaged prototype magical treasure had little attraction for a Fake-Dan Immortal from the me Departing Pce.


    Hong Song Immortal didn''t mention some details: this prototype magical treasure was significantly damaged and would be costly to repair. Additionally, its spirituality had greatly diminished, even for an Immortal, it would require a lot of effort to nurture it.


    Rather than wasting so much effort, it would be more efficient to forge a new prototype magical treasure or buy one instead of repairing this.


    Precisely because it was of little value, he included it in the distributable spoils. Unexpectedly, Lan Chang''an willingly picked the pit.


    "This junior is notcking in supreme-grade magical weapons. Even if this item is of no use to me in the future, I have twote Foundation Establishment friends in Jin Yun Valley who might need it someday." Lan Chang''an did not change his mind.


    "Alright."


    Hong Song Immortal said no more and handed the damaged prototype magical treasure to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an received very little from the remaining spoils in the storage pouch.


    Overall, Lan Chang''an found his gains eptable. He was not short of spirit stones and supreme-grade magical weapons and had little need for ordinary pills. Only high-end or rare resources attracted him greatly.


    Additionally, the mysterious ultra-thin mask he obtained earlier had an extraordinary origin, likely worth more than a prototype magical treasure or even an ordinary magical treasure.


    Just being able to deceive spiritual senses alone made it invaluable, not to mention this mysterious mask could also disguise its wearer and conceal their cultivation level.


    Whoosh!


    The sound of something breaking through the air was heard, and a Foundation Establishment cultivator from me Departing Pce returned.


    "Uncle Hong Song, we found remnants of this robbers'' gang in a cave ten li away. A seriously injured mid-stage Foundation Establishment female cultivator had already taken her own life when we arrived."


    "Good job."


    Hong Song Immortal smiled and nced at Lan Chang''an:


    "Little friend Lan, your clue was helpful. Would you like to go over to take a look?"


    "Sure."


    Lan Chang''an followed the Fake-Dan Immortal and the Foundation Establishment cultivators of me Departing Pce to the cave ten li away.


    Inside the dim cave, a beautiful female corpsey on an animal skin rug.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that this female cultivator bore some resemnce to Zhuang Wenjing, who he had killed earlier, though she seemed older.


    "Uncle Hong Song, we''ve identified the mastermind and key figures of this case." A schrly man in a green robe reported.


    "This group of robbers ns a heist every few years. The mastermind''s real name is unknown. He used the alias ''Kong Mao'' in the marketce within the Liuyun Sect''s territory, skilled in disguise and infiltrating target forces."


    "From the female corpse''s belongings and notes, she was the mastermind''s dao partner. They also had a daughter, nominally the mastermind''s disciple, but in fact, both mother and daughter served the same husband."


    "This heist was intended to help the woman reach thete Foundation Establishment. Their daughter had outstanding qualifications, and even aimed to attain Fake-Dan¡­"


    Lan Chang''an was stunned upon hearing this.


    The thief, alias Gao Cheng or Kong Mao, had indeed gone to great lengths for these two women.


    Of course, the mother and daughter were also core members and primary culprits of the group.


    He had sensed that this person had only two or three decades of lifespan left, with no hope of forming a dan.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an led a few me Departing Pce cultivators to Wuqi Mountain to wrap up the case.


    Hong Song Immortal left midway and did not participate in these minor details.


    "How should I address this senior?"


    On the way, Lan Chang''an took the initiative to introduce himself to the schrly man in green robes.


    This man had a schrly temperament and an air of erudition.


    "I am Song Wenshu, I don''t deserve the title of a senior." The green-robed man smiled.


    "I have heard of your renowned name, Fellow Daoist Lan, and I admire you greatly."


    Song Wenshu was rtively young, with mid-Foundation Establishment cultivation.


    Thete Foundation Establishment cultivators of me Departing Pce present all treated him politely, and looked up to him.


    Lan Chang''an spected that Song Wenshu likely had some background in the me Departing Pce, and he refrained from asking many questions as they had just met for the first time.


    On that day, Lan Chang''an hosted Song Wenshu and other me Departing Pce cultivators at Wuqi Mountain, assisting them in wrapping up the case.


    Ye Fei, still injured, underwent questioning and investigation.


    When recounting the events, Lan Chang''an did not conceal the main points but slightly exaggerated the robbers'' injuries.


    Upon learning the entire incident, Song Wenshu held Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei in higher regard.


    Admittedly, the rogue cultivators they faced were injured from the Fox Valley battle and not at their peak, which might seem like they had taken advantage of the situation. But for loose cultivators to be able to achieve this, luck, strength, and mind were indispensable.


    Half a dayter, the me Departing Pce cultivators left.


    During this period, some of the spoils from Ye Fei''s kill of the two gray-robed Foundation Establishment cultivators were reimed as "stolen goods" by the me Departing Pce disciples.


    Having a "fairly trade" with the Fake-Dan Immortal, Lan Chang''an did not receive the same treatment.


    ...


    At dusk, Lan Chang''an opened Zhuang Wenjing''s storage pouch, finding its contentsparable to those of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    There were no particrly noteworthy items, except for some eye-catching sexy women''s clothing.


    Lan Chang''an reflected on the gains and losses of this battle against the rogue cultivators.


    The mastermind was killed by the Fake-Dan Immortal, who took many spoils, which was certainly frustrating. But in doing so, the presence of the Fake-Dan Immortal overshadowed his own presence.


    Through this event, he got to meet a Fake-Dan Immortal and Song Wenshu, who had a notable background.


    In this battle, he revealed part of his strength, surpassing that of a typical mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    It was mainly the second-rank puppet, which was a reflection of his financial strength.


    At present, he appears on the surface to be a superior-grade first-rank puppet master, controlling second-rank puppets, which allows him to exert more power than ordinary cultivators, was reasonable.


    "Revealing a certain degree of deterrence can reduce a lot of trouble."


    Lan Chang''an was mentally prepared for this. When ate Foundation Establishment rogue cultivator attacked, he had to show something to protect himself.


    Ye Fei, using terrain advantages, poisoned two Foundation Establishment cultivators, including a mid-Foundation Establishment one. This was a scary prospect for outsiders.


    Poison techniques were inherently difficult to guard against, so naturally, people tended to be wary of it.


    One could imagine that with an expert in using poisons in Wuqi Mountain, along with the financially strong and powerful Lan Chang''an, there would be a certain deterrence against outsiders.


    This external deterrence could improve Wuqi Mountain''s security, and benefit harmonious business dealings.


    ...


    In the secret room, Lan Chang''an refocused and took out his two most significant gains from this trip.


    The prototype magical treasure and the mysterious mask.


    A prototype magical treasure was half a major level higher than a supreme-grade magical weapon, with lower usage conditions than a full magical treasure.


    Ate Foundation Establishment cultivator with strong mana could wield it but would find it very consuming and could not use it for long unless one had the foundation of Tuoba Jin from back then.


    Otherwise, a prototype magical treasure could only serve as a trump card, unlike supreme-grade magical weapons that could be used more practically.


    "Too bad it''s not wood-attributed."


    Lan Chang''an touched the broken ck-gold scimitar.


    A prototype magical treasure, which was considered the embryo of a magical treasure, was not as strong as a real magical treasure and was prone to damage in intense battles.


    The most direct way to repair this damaged prototype magical treasure was to find an artifact refiner.


    Alternatively, he could slowly add treasure materials himself and use Foundation Establishment spiritual fire to temper and repair it over a long period.


    The spirituality lost in it, Lan Chang''an was prepared to slowly nurture it, which was exactly what the Evergreen Technique was good at.


    "By the time I reachte-stage Foundation Establishment, this treasure should show considerable power."


    Putting away the prototype magical treasure, Lan Chang''an took out the mysterious mask again.


    The initial probing had shown this item to be quite extraordinary.


    As his spiritual sense entered again, it was like entering a void.


    As his spiritual sense grew stronger, an ancient and eerie aura transmitted.


    As his spiritual sense delved deeper, some vague information and fragmented images flooded Lan Chang''an''s consciousness, he couldn''t help but put the mysterious mask on his face.

 Chapter 138: Heaven-Grade Great Demon

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    The mysterious mask felt like transparent human-skin silicone. When Lan Chang''an ced it on his face, a cool sensation spread, seamlessly merging with his skin.


    In an instant, Lan Chang''an''s facial features and aura underwent a dramatic transformation, bing a vigorous and heroic young man.


    "Is this Gao Cheng?"


    Lan Chang''an conjured a water mirror with a flick of his finger, marveling at his reflection.


    Not only had his appearance changed to that of Gao Cheng, but even his eye color, hair, skin tone, aura, and mana fluctuations had transformed ordingly.


    His cultivation level also reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    "The core of one''s soul and cultivation methods remain unchanged, but the external manifestation ispletely different," Lan Chang''an observed for a long time and concluded.


    Fuzzy images transmitted from within the depths of the mask recorded its origin from an ancient and mysterious creature. Within the iplete informationy instructions on how to use the mask."The simplest and most effective way to assume someone¡¯s identity is to kill the target and let the mask devour their essence blood and soul."


    "This identity recement is nearly perfect, even the strongest of ancestors, exerting their bloodline sensing methods, would find it difficult to find any ws."


    "Alternatively, collecting the target''s blood and magical aura and integrating them into the mask can achieve a simr effect, though slightly inferior."


    "The mask¡¯s disguise leans towards the soul level, and its effect is primarily rted to spiritual sense."


    "It can not only hide one¡¯s cultivation level but, if the spiritual sense is strong enough, it can even simte a higher cultivation level."


    Thisst point surprised Lan Chang''an.


    At first, he thought the mask was only good for disguise and hiding cultivation levels. He didn¡¯t expect it could also mimic higher cultivation levels.


    The premise, however, was that the spiritual sense must reach the corresponding level.


    Currently, Lan Chang''an simted "Gao Cheng" with ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation because his own spiritual sense slightly surpassed that of an averagete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    That evening, while soaking in a bath, Lan Chang''an quietly collected Guan Qiaozhi''s blood and magical aura.


    Returning to his room, he put on the mask, transforming into a beautiful and pure young woman, his voice and aura nearly indistinguishable from Guan Qiaozhi.


    He also learned that this mask could record the appearance and aura of up to three people.


    "A mask that can y a hundred faces. Let''s call you ''Hundred Illusions Mask''," Lan Chang''an removed the mask, returning to his original appearance.


    ...


    Half a monthter, in the secret room on Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, a damaged ck-gold scimitar floating in front of him.


    He channeled Evergreen mana with both hands to nurture this embryonic magical treasure.


    Because he hadn¡¯t reached the Core Formation Realm, he couldn¡¯t store the magical treasure in his dantian to nurture it.


    After nurturing it for a long time, the spirituality within the embryonic magical treasure showed the slightest change.


    Whoosh!


    A faint pale green spiritual fire, like candlelight, emerged from Lan Chang''an¡¯s palm.


    This was the Foundation Establishment spiritual fire cultivated through the Evergreen mana.


    Lan Chang''an''s Foundation Establishment spiritual fire, like his mana, was average in power. But as his mana increased, the spiritual fire¡¯s potency also rose.


    Lan Chang''an summoned the Foundation Establishment spiritual fire to repair this broken magical treasure prototype.


    He was not short of materials for magical treasures.


    Ten years ago, when the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm opened, he had invested in Zhao Siyao, who brought back the third-rank ck iron crystal, a material for crafting magical treasures.


    The general utility of the third-rank ck iron crystal matched well with the embryonic magical treasure.


    Puff~


    Lan Chang''an took out the third-rank ck iron crystal, burned it with the Foundation Establishment spiritual fire for a long time, and dissolved a very small piece of it, adding it to the broken part of the magic treasure prototype to repair and temper it.


    Lan Chang''an nned to spend several years fully integrating this piece of third-rank ck iron crystal into the embryonic magical treasure.


    By then, the weapon would not only be fully repaired but its quality would also improve through nurturing and tempering.


    ...


    Whoosh!


    A transmission talisman flew in, attaching itself to the door outside the secret room.


    Lan Chang''an retrieved the talisman, and Guan Qiaozhi''s voice came through, saying that Zheng Centipede had arrived.


    He continued his tempering work for a moment, then Lan Chang''an put away the embryonic magical treasure and left the secret room.


    Slow work yields fine results; there was no need to rush.


    In the study of the cave mansion, Lan Chang''an received Zheng Centipede.


    "For the past half month, the beast tide on the frontlines has been weakening, and Huanglong Immortal City has passed the dangerous peak period, and the situation has stabilized..." Zheng Centipede reported.


    Lan Chang''an had also sensed that the beast tide was nearing its end.


    In recent days, the number of scattered demonic beasts from the frontlines around Wuqi Mountain has gradually decreased.


    After all, it was just a small beast tide urring every few decades, not enough to pose a real threat to the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    "There''s also news about Huanglong Immortal..."


    Zheng Centipede¡¯s tone became a bit more serious.


    Huanglong Immortal?


    The following news left Lan Chang''an astonished and puzzled.


    "During the beast tide, Huanglong Immortal left Huanglong Immortal City for the ck Fog Mountain Range. Are you sure this news is urate?"


    "The uracy of this information is over eighty percent." Zheng Centipede was confident in his intelligence.


    The Zheng Family¡¯s Apricot Vi, located directly south of Huanglong Immortal City, was much closer.


    He added, "Huanglong Immortal didn''t go alone; a group of formation masters also went to the ck Fog Mountain Range. This matter couldn''t be hidden from those who were paying attention."


    "Mm."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, not asking further.


    After Zheng Centipede left, Lan Chang''an pondered for a while, specting on the purpose of Huanglong Immortal''s actions.


    Before the beast tide erupted, Huanglong Mountain had been recruiting experienced formation masters, including formation geniuses like Fairy Shi.


    In recent years, Master Manrong¡¯s formation attainments had advanced rapidly, and she was probably one of the formation masters taken away this time.


    "Could it be that ancient ruin?"


    Lan Chang''an had a thought but quickly dismissed it.


    "No! If it were about conquering an ancient ruin, it would be done in secrecy, the fewer people knowing, the better. Such arge-scale mobilization is unlikely."


    "At Huanglong Immortal''s level, he would only risk going deep into the ck Fog Mountain Range for opportunities that could potentially elevate him further or prolong his lifespan by several decades..."


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Deep in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Above a hilly area, several powerful auras at the True-Dan level gathered.


    In the center was a middle-aged man in a grand ck-yellow robe, with a broad forehead and bronze skin, standing on a massive third-rank Huang Dragon Beast.


    Seeing this beast was like seeing the person himself, as it represented none other than the number one loose cultivator of the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, Huanglong Immortal.


    At this moment, Huanglong Immortal and several other Immortals were quietly conversing, overlooking thend below.


    Below, in a hilly area spanning hundreds of li, formation masters were scattered about.


    Each formation master was at least a second-rank senior, holding formation tools and busy in their designated areas. In midair, two third-rank formation masters were in charge, both at the Fake-Dan stage.


    At this time, a voluptuous woman in a moonlit in dress flew over on a beam of light.


    "Fairy Shi, the Earth Deity Formation on the southeast side, has the problem been solved?"


    One of the third-rank formation masters, an old man with a goatee, looked at Shi Manrong with a kind face and smiling eyes.


    "It''s been dealt with, there are metal ore veins underneath that ce, which caused a little deviation to the formation." Shi Manrong was not overly humble, her voice calm and gentle.


    Over the years, her attainments in formations had skyrocketed, only limited by her cultivation to the quasi-third-rank.


    On Huanglong Mountain¡¯smand, she came to the ck Fog Mountain Range to set up formations. Her status and position were second only to the two third-rank formation masters, ying a central coordinating role.


    "Observe and learn. The experience ofying down argebined formation is rare." The goateed old man said, his voice full of concern, his bright eyes lingering briefly on Shi Manrong''s voluptuous curves.


    "If there¡¯s anything you don¡¯t understand, you can privately seek out this old man for help."


    "Thank you for your kindness, Elder Ke." Shi Manrong responded gracefully, exchanging pleasantries before heading to another location.


    Within the hundred-li radius, formation masters were stationed in each area, with even Fake-Dan Immortals managing the formation gs.


    As Shi Manrong flew some distance, she suddenly sensed a terrifying aura that made her heart skip a beat.


    Whoosh! Boom!


    The ground shook violently, and a mighty wave of dust and air swept over.


    Roar!


    A deafening roar echoed, shaking the mind, and a powerful sound wave approached from hundreds of miles away.


    Shi Manrong groaned, her sea of consciousness aching, her body swaying, blood and energy churning within.


    "Not good! We haven''t even lured it in yet, but our target has arrived..."


    In the clouds above, the several Immortal''s expressions changed slightly.


    Suddenly, a low terrifying whistling sound shot straight toward the formation area.


    "Watch out!"


    Huanglong Immortal let out a low cry, sensing something.


    However, by the time he heard themotion, it was toote to stop it.


    Boom!


    A giant stone the size of a house, zing with mes like a meteor, crashed into the formation.


    "Ah!"


    In mid-air, a Fake-Dan third-rank formation master¡¯s scream abruptly ceased.


    His body, merely grazed by the giant stone, made a cracking sound as bones shattered, internal organs were crushed, and his corpse flew out miles away.


    Boom!


    The giant stone hit the ground, creating arge crater, with the surrounding ground cracking and spreading. The powerful shockwave crushed a Foundation Establishment cultivator who was guarding the formation area.


    Pale-faced, Shi Manrong tumbled to the ground, wind-blown debris scratching her skin. The skirt of her robe fluttered upward, exposing her thighs.


    Her forehead throbbed with pain, and the feeling of something warm came from it, it was a drop of brain matter that fell from mid-air.


    Just now, the trajectory of the giant rock passed only dozens of zhang away from her.


    The third-rank formation master who died was the goateed old man who had been watching her back earlier.


    Had he not been distracted, he might have had a chance to dodge.


    "Form the formation! Follow the original n."


    From above the clouds came a deep and steady voice, imbued with an inexplicable sense of confidence.


    Ignoring the blood on her forehead, Shi Manrong helped the remaining third-rank formation master coordinate and activate the formations in various areas.


    A few dozen li away, the ground trembled. Amidst rolling dust, a giant ape with a stone body and azure eyes, ten zhang tall, charged forward.


    The azure-eyed giant ape held a giant stone in one hand and a dark wooden stick in the other.


    Following it was arge group of stone monkeys, all at least second-rank.


    "Azure-eyed Stone Ape! Late third-rank, heaven-grade bloodline..."


    It was not until this moment that Shi Manrong witnessed the target of this mission, and she couldn''t help but gasp aloud.


    Buzz!


    Before the azure-eyed stone ape arrived, a light shield radiating four colors of light, like an inverted bowl, covered the hundred-li radius.


    Bang!


    The giant ape¡¯s dark wooden staff, transforming into a massive pir dozens of zhang high, struck the four-colored light shield, causing it to tremble.


    The faces of many of the Foundation Establishment cultivators who were maintaining the formation flushed red and swelled with tension.


    "Attack!"


    Huanglong Immortal summoned a grand yellow mountain seal, infusing it with the dense core power of a mid-Core Formation cultivator.


    The massive mountain seal, resembling Huanglong Mountain, descended from the sky, emitting dim golden light, pressing toward the azure-eyed giant ape.


    Roar!


    The third-rank Huang Dragon Beast beneath Huanglong Immortal roared like a true dragon, its thick w striking toward the giant ape¡¯s head.


    The azure-eyed giant ape sneered.


    With a flick of its giant staff, it sent the mountain seal flying, its light scattering, and crashing back toward Huanglong Immortal.


    ng!


    The giant ape¡¯s head collided with the third-rank Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s w, producing a sound like metal striking stone, sending the beast flying.


    "Wretched beast, die!"


    The other Immortals summoned their magic treasures, speeding like lightning, causing mountains to shake and the earth to tremble as they fought in groups against the third-rank great demon of heaven-grade bloodline.

 Chapter 139: Green-Faced Heavenly Moon

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Dozens of li away from the fierce battle between the several Immortals and the Heaven-Grade Giant Ape, atop an unremarkable hill:


    A giant wolf with silvery fur like frost, with robust and long limbs, stood watching the distant, tumultuous battlefield with crafty and amused eyes.


    "A heavenly bloodline,te third-rank Azure-eyed Stone Ape, with a pure and rich inner core. If its inner core is refined into an elixir, it can slightly improve the quality of the True-Dan for cultivators practicing earth-based techniques, aiding in their breakthrough to thete Core Formation stage."


    The giant wolf with frost-like silver fur murmured to itself. It saw through the true purpose of "Huanglong Immortal" at a nce. The beast tide had caused the migration of demonic beasts, giving Huanglong Immortal an excellent opportunity.


    Had Lan Chang''an been present, he would have recognized that this wolf was the mysterious Heavenly Moon Wolf that appeared in the ck Fog Mountain Range decades ago.


    Now, the Heavenly Moon Wolf had grown significantly in size, with its cultivation reaching the early third rank.


    "Did you warn the Stone Ape?"


    A hollow, low voice, seeminglying from its abdomen, sent chills down one''s spine.The Heavenly Moon Wolf''s fur stood on end, its body stiff with fear.


    It slowly turned its head with difficulty, looking at the figure that had appeared behind it.


    It was a man with a green face, horns growing from his head, and arms covered in dark green scales, that stood there with a smooth serpent tail extending from his lower body.


    The oppressive aura of a high-ranking ancient bloodline made the wolf with the earth-grade bloodline tremble. This man with a serpent tail was at least from the upper echelons of the heaven-grade, its standing even higher than the Azure-eyed Stone Ape.


    "Lord Greenface, it was this little demon who warned the Stone Ape."


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf, recalling some rumors about this person, spoke respectfully.


    "This little demon was afraid that the Azure-eyed Stone Ape would fall into the ambush of the human cultivators, so it kindly sent a warning."


    "Kindly?"


    The green-faced man looked at the wolf with a half-smile, sizing it up.


    The wolf felt uneasy under its gaze, as if all its secrets wereid bare before him.


    "I''ve made Lord Greenfaceugh. The inner core of that Azure-eyed Stone Ape is also of significant benefit to this little demon." This time, the Heavenly Moon Wolf spoke truthfully.


    The humans had the numbers and had set up formation traps. It had kindly warned the Azure-eyed Stone Ape to bnce the power between the two sides.


    The green-faced man said, "This ape once received my guidance. Today, it can be considered a minor tribtion for it."


    Upon hearing this, cold sweat broke out on the Heavenly Moon Wolf''s back.


    ...


    The battle in the distance had reached a fever pitch.


    Theposite formation arranged by the human cultivators unleashed monstrous waves, shing with blue arcs of lightning, submerging the ground ahead, forcing the Azure-eyed Stone Ape into the sky.


    The Azure-eyed Stone Ape was an earth-based great demon, naturally advantaged in groundbat.


    On both sides of theposite formation, green halos surged, extending dense vines, each dozens of zhang long, relentlessly entangling the Azure-eyed Stone Ape.


    Boom! Boom!


    The giant ape either swung its staff or punched, shattering many vines.


    But those vines were tough and resilient, supported by the formation, and grew endlessly.


    The Huanglong Mountain Seal and other magical treasures pressed down from above, constantly reducing the giant ape''s maneuvering space.


    Thousands of stone apes, stepping on the waves, crazily attacked the humans''bined formation, and among them was a third-rank leader.


    "Everyone, unite and take down this ape! The reward will be doubled afterward!" Huanglong Immortal roared with grandeur, his ck and yellow robe fluttering.


    "Lord Greenface, the situation doesn''t look good for the Stone Ape. The human cultivators came prepared, outnumbering us, and theirbined formation can attack and defend, with a countering attribute..." The Heavenly Moon Wolf cautiously suggested.


    As it spoke, the Azure-eyed Stone Ape was bound by many vines, and the Huanglong Seal and other magical treasures suppressed it beneath the shing electric arcs of the giant waves.


    The green-faced man remained unmoved: "I don''t like to casually meddle in worldly disputes."


    He nced at the spirited and powerful Huanglong Immortal and said indifferently, "A little fellow with a lifespan of a few dozen years. Even if he advances to thete Core Formation stage, so what? Without reaching the Nascent Soul Realm, it''s all in vain, it has little to no effect on the situation in Great Qing."


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf''s eyes shed with a strange light, confirming that even if it made its own moves the green-faced man would not interfere.


    With that, the green-faced man turned around and left.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf noticed that the green-faced man did not head into the depths of the ck Fog Mountain Range. His face and bodypletely transformed into a human form, walking toward the direction of Huanglong Immortal City.


    Boom!


    Just as the green-faced man turned, a sound like the earth splitting came from the battlefield.


    Amidst the giant waves, the suppressed and bound Azure-eyed Stone Ape was brewing terrifying energy, and its body suddenly exploded, splitting into dozens of pieces.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Bang!


    Each piece of the shattered stone body glowed with a strange red and yellow light, carrying a terrifying impact.


    "Ah!"


    An Immortal in the early Core Formation stage was hit by a piece of the stone body and shattered like porcin on the spot.


    The Huang Dragon Beast and two other Immortals were caught off guard and also suffered severe injuries.


    Especially the Huang Dragon Beast, with a huge bloody hole in its abdomen.


    Amidst the huge rumbling sound, the green-faced man did not look back, and slowly flew toward human civilization.


    "It''s been a long time since I''ve been to the human world."


    "From what I''ve heard, the Yan Kingdom has given birth to a mid-Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, which might affect the surrounding regions."


    The green-faced man muttered to himself, his figure soon swallowed by the mist.


    "Stone body reformation?"


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf eximed softly, noticing that the Azure-eyed Stone Ape, which had exploded into dozens of pieces, quickly reassembled in mid-air, though its aura had dropped by two or three levels.


    "Retreat!"


    Huanglong Immortal''s face looked a bit aged, joining forces with several Immortals to fight and retreat, and covering the retreat route of the other cultivators.


    The Azure-eyed Stone Ape kept its distance, ring unwillingly at Huanglong Immortal and the Huang Dragon Beast.


    Huanglong Immortal who cultivated a top-tier earth technique, with a solid and pure True-Dan, including the demon core of the Huang Dragon Beast, bore no small attraction to it.


    As night fell, nearly half of the full moon emerged from behind the clouds.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf felt its body brimming with power, its demonic power increased by more than fifty percent.


    It couldn''t help but lick its lips, coldly watching in the dark.


    ...


    More than half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''anpleted his daily cultivation and nurturing.


    Ssh!


    The Profound Water Turtle followed him out of the cave and rolled over into the pool.


    Now three meters wide, it couldfortably carry people on its back. Its actual cultivation was faintly touching the peak of thete first rank. Its physical growth speed was far behind its cultivation.


    Lan Chang''an sat in the pavilion.


    A woman in her thirties, wearing a ruqun, was skillfully brewing tea.


    "Senior Brother Lan, once the beast tide ends, I n to visit the secr world." Guan Qiaozhi said softly.


    Lan Chang''an looked at his concubine, whose smile lines had appeared.


    At seventy-four years old, even with a steady supply of beauty-preserving pills, maintaining such an appearance was already not easy.


    Years ago, when he saw that Guan Qiaozhi had no hope of reaching the Foundation Establishment Realm, he asked if she had any wishes for this life.


    Guan Qiaozhi replied that she wanted to visit her birth parents and her master''s homnd. If there were any orphans, she wished to help and do good deeds.


    "The beast tide is almost over. Before you leave, let me know if you have any difficulties or needs." Lan Chang''an agreed.


    Before Guan Qiaozhi left, he wanted to prepare a parting gift for her. He wasn''t sure if she would return after leaving.


    "Senior Brother Lan, where were you born? I will go there to take a look as well." Guan Qiaozhi smiled, with a hint of expectation.


    Lan Chang''an shook his head, "I''m an orphan and don''t know where my birth parents are."


    As his cultivation level rose, he might be able to find blood rtives using bloodline sensing techniques. However, Lan Chang''an had no interest in that.


    "If it''s not too far, you can visit the Hengshui Prefecture''s Angry River Gang for me..." Lan Chang''an thought for a moment and mentioned it.


    Back then, after being separated from his adoptive father and brother, Lan Chang''an had asked Lin Yi to let Marquis Guang''an look after the Angry River Gang. Thus, the Angry River Gang, despite ups and downs over the decades, had survived.


    "Alright!" Guan Qiaozhi''s eyes lit up, happily agreeing.


    Whoosh!


    A Foundation Establishment aura approached Little Turtle Peak, revealing a ck-skinned old man.


    Zheng Centipede, a frequent visitor to Little Turtle Peak, and Guan Qiaozhi opened the formation to wee him in.


    "Haha! Fellow Daoist Lan, you have such leisure and abundant wealth flowing in from behind, it makes others green with envy." Zheng Centipede took a seat in the pavilion.


    The beast tide on the frontlines had almost been warped up, so Zheng Centipede only brought a small quantity of second-order mid-grade materials this time.


    "Brother Lan, there''s been news from Huanglong Immortal City that it has banned rumors froming out of Huanglong Mountain."


    "What rumor?" Lan Chang''an lifted his eyelids slightly.


    "ording to some unofficial information, Huanglong Immortal led a team and fought a fierce battle against a third-rank demon in the ck Fog Mountain Range, returning severely wounded..." Zheng Centipede unconsciously lowered his voice further.


    "Huanglong Immortal was seriously injured?" Lan Chang''an''s expression shifted.


    Huanglong Immortal was the foremost lose cultivator of Liang Kingdom, and aside from the Nascent Soul True Monarch of me Departing Pce and a handful of otherte-stage Core Formation cultivators with outstanding battle prowess, few could pose any threat to him.


    "How urate is this rumor?"


    "Can''t say for sure, Huanglong Mountain is guarding their borders too tightly." Zheng Centipede admitted.


    "There''s another version of the rumor saying that while Huanglong Immortal sustained injuries, his spirit beastpanion, the Huang Dragon Beast, fell in the battle."


    Lan Chang''an smiled slightly and directly asked, "Is the area around Huanglong Immortal City currently chaotic?"


    "Very chaotic," Zheng Centipede replied without hesitation.


    "The Inner City of Huanglong is somewhat better off, but there are at least dozens of daily incidents of murder and armed fights in the Outer City. Around the Immortal city, rogue cultivators have been wreaking havoc, their numbers vastly exceeding those of the beast swarms."


    After listening to Zheng Centipede''s report, Lan Chang''an had a general understanding.


    This indicated that the Huanglong Immortal City''s control over its territory was slipping. If its leaders were as steady as a sea anchor, the situation wouldn''t have descended into such chaos even after the beast tide ended. From this perspective, most of the rumors seemed to be true, though certain details remained unclear.


    "Huanglong Immortal City is so chaotic, it hasn''t been easy for you to take the risk of buying materials and sending back information these past few months," Lan Chang''an praised him.


    "Haha! It wasn''t actually all that risky!" Zheng Centipede chuckled awkwardly, attempting to conceal his guilt.


    "Perhaps its his vicious appearance that made the average rogue cultivator wary of provoking him," Lan Chang''an nced at him and thought secretly: With your looks, you''re basically one of the bandits.


    His earlier conjecture had been that Zheng Centipede either yed along with raiders or colluded with them to exchange information. This way, he could safely bring back goods and intel from the vtile outskirts of Huanglong Immortal City time and again.


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an gifted Zheng Centipede a jade slip containing a set of general second-rank talisman inheritance techniques, nothing particrly unique or exclusive.


    Zheng Centipede was grateful and epted the set of inheritance.


    "If you walk by the river often, you''re bound to get your feet wet. You have your family to take care of, so don''t be too entangled with these matters," Lan Chang''an warned.


    Zheng Centipede nodded profusely, sweat dripping down his face, before taking his leave.


    Recently, Lan Chang''an had gained some renown within the surrounding area, especially for his feat of repelling the injuredte Foundation Establishment cultivator, assisting a Fake-Dan Immortal, and ying the ringleader.


    ...


    Ten dayster, a powerful aura of thete Foundation Establishment entered Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an sensed it immediately and stepped outside his cave mansion.


    He saw a pristine girl dressed in yellow riding a snow-white second-rank spirit beast to slowly descend toward him.


    "Lan Chang''an, I''ll cut to the chase," Zhou Qingxuan''s tone seemed hasty, "I have important business to attend to at Huanglong Mountain, so I came to Wuqi Mountain to inform you of something along the way. There''s a rare opportunity, are youing or not?"

 Chapter 140: Decline of the Immortal City

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    "Miss Zhou, what opportunity could you possibly have that would lead you to think of me?" Lan Chang''an spoke calmly and unhurriedly.


    Upon this meeting, perhaps due to the urgency of the time, this woman no longer addressed him as "Big Brother Lan" as she had years ago, but directly by his name.


    "Lan Chang''an, didn''t you once say you were good at healing and managed to raise that sickly Profound Water Turtle to health?" Zhou Qingxuan nced towards the Profound Water Turtle by the lotus pond.


    Sensing the gaze of thiste Foundation Establishment beast tamer, the Profound Water Turtle instinctively recoiled, withdrawing its head and diving into the pond.


    "My wood-based cultivation technique is indeed good in terms of healing. However, back then, the sessful hatching of the Profound Water Turtle was due to some heavenly materials and earthly treasures I happened to acquire," Lan Chang''an replied wlessly.


    He remembered his story clearly over the decades, ensuring he wouldn''t be cornered by this woman.


    "No need to exin so much." Zhou Qingxuan revealed a radiant smile and got straight to the point:


    "The Huang Dragon Beast under Huanglong Immortal is severely injured and on the brink of death, barely hanging on by a thread with secret medicines.""Huanglong Mountain is looking for skilled beast tamers, alchemists, and exceptional individuals to help heal the Huang Dragon Beast."


    "Any cultivator who can save the Huang Dragon Beast''s life will be richly rewarded by Huanglong Immortal, including ''Crystal Condensation Pills'' and Core Formation resources. He also promises to perform one act within his power and ability for the savior."


    Upon understanding the situation, Lan Chang''an appropriately showed surprise, contemting deeply.


    Huanglong Immortal had a deep bond with the Huang Dragon Beast. They had risen from humble beginnings together, sharing life and death for centuries. To some extent, this earth-grade spirit pet was akin to Huanglong Immortal''s closest kin.


    Even his personal disciples, including Fu Xuemei, couldn''tpare to the status of the Huang Dragon Beast in Huanglong Immortal''s heart.


    "Crystal Condensation Pills, Core Formation resources..." Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly, feeling a bit tempted.


    The Crystal Condensation Pill, which could increase the chances of forming a core, was something that countless Foundation Establishment Cultivators could only dream of.


    In all of Great Qing, the Crystal Condensation Pill was an extremely precious strategic resource.


    In his previous life, with a higher starting point, better spiritual roots, and considerable opportunities, he had barely seeded in forming a core after much hardship.


    In this life, with low-grade wood spiritual roots, even with the Evergreen Technique''s boost, the chances of forming a core without external opportunities were bleak.


    "Miss Zhou, when ites to third-rank spirit beasts, Lan really can''t do anything about it," Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    He had a feeling that the Evergreen''s secret spell might work if he consumed some of his lifespan. However, there was no way he would reveal such a secret method in front of Huanglong Immortal.


    He hadn''t reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment yet, and getting Core Formation items in advance would instead invite trouble, at that time he could only rely on Huanglong Mountain to shelter him.


    He harbored not even the slightest fondness for the Huanglong Mountain. The enemy who barred his path, Fu Xuemei, was the sessor they nned to cultivate.


    Some years ago, she had reached thete Foundation Establishment stage, despite being held back by her brother. Fu Xuemei had promised her master that she would help her brother only up to the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Facing the path to Core Formation, even a genius with earth spiritual roots had to give it their all.


    "If you won''t go, then forget it. Just don''t mention this matter to others for now." Zhou Qingxuan seemed slightly regretful but did not insist.


    The specifics of the Huang Dragon Beast''s injury were known only to some upper-level cultivators in the Liang Kingdom. The Zhou Family, skilled in beast taming, had received an invitation from Huanglong Mountain.


    "Rest assured, Miss Zhou, I won''t speak of this to any outsider," Lan Chang''an assured, watching her figure ascend into the sky with a hint of curiosity.


    The Huang Dragon Beast''s injury was something even a Core Formation Immortal couldn''t handle.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, no matter how good he was at healing, she shouldn''t have had such high expectations from him.


    In this life, one and a half people knew the secrets of the Evergreen Technique.


    One was the entric "Daoist Tianshu," and the other half was Mu Xiuyun.


    As for Mu Bingyun, she only thought he had some secret methods. It took over a decade to repair her foundation, so it wasn¡¯t too surprising.


    "However, there is another variable..." Lan Chang''an thought about the encounter with Chen Fuhai and the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu''s probe.


    The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu could inhabit various races and had knowledge far exceedingmon people.


    He closed his eyes, his consciousness merging with the second life in the Nine Seal Stele.


    The currently explored small functions of the Nine Seal Stele were divided into active and passive.


    Active: The shadow of the soul descends, consuming the soul imprint that has been illuminated over the years, which could be used forbat.


    Passive: Consciousness enters the Nine Seal Stele, merging with a particr life, receiving augmented spiritual sense by consuming the illuminated energy.


    The second one couldn''t be used forbat, more like sharing the soul''s perception.


    If he returned to the peak of his previous life or advanced to Nascent Soul Realm, these abilities would be of little significance.


    Swish!


    After flying out for a few li, Zhou Qingxuan was discreetly probed by Lan Chang''an''s Immortal-level spiritual sense.


    He even peered into her sea of consciousness.


    There was nothing unusual in Zhou Qingxuan''s sea of consciousness. Due to her beast-taming talent, it glowed with a hint of purple glittering light, making it slightly different from ordinary cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t delve into her sea of consciousness to investigate, lest he be detected.


    Retracting his spiritual sense, he could not reach any conclusions.


    If the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu was deeply hidden in the sea of consciousness, it wouldn''t be visible on the surface. Unless one was powerful enough to see through ate Foundation Establishment cultivator''s sea of consciousness at a nce.


    In the past, he was able to detect the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu on Chen Fuhai because it had surfaced to observe him and couldn''t hide fast enough to escape his probing.


    Zhou Qingxuan rode the second-rank spirit bird out of Wuqi Mountain.


    "Even Core Formation items can''t move him?"


    "Even if one is a cultivator of the Evergreen Technique, lifespan will eventuallye to an end. The key resources must be fought for," Zhou Qingxuan''s eyes shed.


    "When he was in the Qi-Refining stage, his blood was pure, his youth unaging, and his longevity prolonged. After reaching the Foundation Establishment, his aura became more profound, making him harder to read. It''s possible he has cultivated another top-tier wood-based technique."


    "We cannot probe further! Whether or not this person has any connections with Yan Doni, he has a significant background."


    "This time, the concealment was deep, it should not be exposed..."


    ...


    A few monthster.


    Lan Chang''an turned 107, four to five years past his breakthrough to mid Foundation Establishment.


    He estimated it would take about seven more years to reach the fifth level of Foundation Establishment.


    However, he had vaguely touched the sixthyer of the "Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual."


    The inheritance of this body refining manual extended to the seventhyer at most, or six and a halfyers, corresponding to the Fake-Dan stage.


    Before forming a Core, it was sufficient. The technique wasn''t of the highest grade, but its strengthy in its simplicity.


    With enough time for cultivation, adequate financial resources to buy spirit sand stones, and decent body-refining talent, one could steadily make progress.


    Lan Chang''an''s so-called body refining talent was essentially the self-healing power of the Evergreen Technique.


    ...


    On this day, Shi Manrong returned from Huanglong Immortal City, inviting Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei, two peak masters, to her residence.


    In the cave dwelling of Xiao Pan Peak.


    This time when they met, Fairy Shi''s cultivation had reached thete Foundation Establishment stage. She radiated a bright and captivating aura.


    "This time, I''ve returned to stay in Wuqi Mountain for a while. It''s been a long time since I gathered with the two peak masters," Shi Manrong said gracefully with a gentle smile.


    Lan Chang''an noticed the change in Shi Manrong''s demeanor.


    Two years before and after the beast tide, she had seemed urgent and busy.


    Now, having advanced to thete Foundation Establishment stage, her state of mind had settled down.


    "Does Shi Fairy still maintain the cooperation with Huanglong Mountain?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "The cooperation has ended. I declined their invitation to stay," Shi Manrong said casually.


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t surprised.


    After the beast tide ended and Huanglong Immortal''s demon hunt failed, the demand for formation masters wasn''t as high, and it was impossible to maintain the previous over-the-top treatment and keep offering rare resources.


    In the past two years, Shi Manrong had seized the opportunity to get on that express train, and whether it was her cultivation or her attainments in formations, she had significantly improved.


    Lan Chang''an spected that her formation attainments might have touched the third rank.


    "Shi Fairy, I heard Huanglong Immortal''s Huang Dragon Beast has been saved. Is this true?" Ye Fei asked curiously.


    "It has indeed been saved."


    Shi Manrong, previously treated as an honored guest at Huanglong Mountain, knew more information that belonged to the upper echelon.


    "However, the Huang Dragon Beast''s cultivation dropped from mid-third rank to quasi-third rank."


    "Its cultivation dropped?"


    A month ago, Lan Chang''an had only heard from Zheng Centipede that the beast had been saved, without the specific details.


    "Who saved the Huang Dragon Beast?"


    "It was the Beast Taming Zhou Family, their genius ''Zhou Qingxuan'' provided assistance and a n." Shi Fairy replied.


    "But the actual savior was Huanglong Immortal himself."


    "I heard that in order to save the Huang Dragon Beast, the Huanglong Immortal consumed the essence of his True-Dan and paid certain unknown prices."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an had a likely guess about the method used.


    Huanglong Immortal''s earth-based cultivation technique matched the Huang Dragon Beast''s attributes.


    He might have used a secret technique, consuming his True-Dan essence andbining it with precious medicines, achieving an effect simr to the Evergreen''s secret spell.


    "Consuming the True-Dan essence would result in a permanent decrease in the Immortal''s strength and lifespan!"


    Lan Chang''an hadn''t expected Huanglong Immortal to be willing to pay such a price for his spirit pet. If Fu Xuemei was a fanatic about supporting her brother, then Huanglong Immortal was a fanatic about protecting his pet.


    In terms of status and strength, Huanglong Immortal was simr to his past life. In his previous life, he had also consumed a bit of lifespan for his spirit pet, but it was far less than the extent of Huanglong Immortal.


    Ye Fei pondered, "Huanglong Immortal must have a deeper n. This is a grand strategy!"


    "Oh? What''s your insight?" Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong looked over.


    "First, preserving the Huang Dragon Beast maintains the ''Huanglong Immortal'' reputation." Ye Fei analyzed.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong nodded in agreement.


    Huanglong Immortal''s title was closely tied to the Huang Dragon Beast.


    "As long as the name ''Huanglong Immortal'' remains, it is enough to discourage the curmudgeons."


    "Additionally, the Huang Dragon Beast''s lifespan far exceeds that of humans. After Huanglong Immortal''s death, the beast can still guard the sessor of the Huanglong Mountain, and serve as a spiritual symbol for the future."


    "Huanglong Immortal''s n is far-reaching!" Ye Fei''s eyes gleamed with admiration.


    Hearing thetterments, Lan Chang''an''s expression twitched.


    Those superficial honors were insignificantpared to the impact of the strength and lifespan reduction.


    In the cultivation world, strength was fundamental. The stronger one was and the longer they lived, the more people would fear them.


    The rival forces of Huanglong Immortal City didn''t care about that bit of superficial prestige.


    "Fellow Daoist Ye''s words hold some truth," Shi Manrong said with a smile.


    "However, half a month ago, a direct descendant of Huanglong Mountain was killed outside the city. This news hasn''t spread yet."


    "This... is truly audacious!" Ye Fei, caught off guard, felt a bit embarrassed.


    A direct descendant of Huanglong Mountain killed outside the city was unimaginable during Huanglong Immortal City''s peak.


    From today''s information, Lan Chang''an was increasingly certain that Huanglong Immortal City''s strength had greatly diminished and was continuing to decline.


    Over the past few months, Huanglong Immortal City had sold off numerous properties, and many external personnel were being withdrawn one after another.


    In the future, Huanglong Mountain would no longer be able to advance aggressively and could only try to maintain its core territory.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    On Little Turtle Peak, Guan Qiaozhi saw off a Qi-Refining ninthyer cultivator who hade to purchase talismans.


    "Senior Brother Lan, fewer people are buying talismanstely. Wuqi Mountain''s poprity is not what it used to be," Guan Qiaozhi said with slight worry.


    After the beast tide ended, the demand for talismans plummeted.


    A surplus of demonic beast materials had flooded the market.


    Ordinary first-rank talismans had dropped significantly in price, and even second-rank talismans had returned to their normal prices, no longer enjoying the high premiums of the beast tide period.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had always focused on high-end products.


    During the beast tide, he had produced and stockpiled a batch of second-rank talismans using low-cost materials. He had also acquired some mid to superior-grade first-rank materials at rock-bottom prices.


    Even if he sold them now, Lan Chang''an could make a considerable profit.


    However, with abundant funds and over twenty thousand spirit stones in his wallet, Lan Chang''an wasn''t in a hurry to sell.


    The cultivation world was vtile, and prices fluctuated unpredictably.


    With his long lifespan, Lan Chang''an believed he could wait for the market to rebound.


    "We earned plenty of spirit stones during the beast tide. Now, it''s just right for you to clear your head for a while," Lan Chang''an reassured her.


    While he made talismans, Guan Qiaozhi handled the materials and earned a certain amount ofmission.


    "Senior Brother Lan, now that it''s stable outside and not so busy on the mountain, I want to make a trip to the secr world," Guan Qiaozhi slightly clenched her teeth and uttered a well thought out decision.


    "When do you n to leave?"


    They had discussed this matter before, so Lan Chang''an wasn''t surprised.


    "Tomorrow," Guan Qiaozhi said solemnly.


    That night, Guan Qiaozhi carefully bathed Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    The next morning, just as dawn broke.


    Guan Qiaozhi led a blue-robed girl in.


    The girl had a Qi-Refining fourthyer cultivation, had a small and delicate appearance, but was half a step behind Guan Qiaozhi''s youth.


    "She is?" Lan Chang''an walked out of the cave and looked at the blue-skirted girl who bowed nervously.


    "Brother Lan, her name is Lan Rou, a descendant of Sister Lan Lin''s family."


    Guan Qiaozhi introduced with a smile.


    "I found that she is well-behaved and obedient, and is slightly knowledgeable in talismans. While I''m away, she can work as a maid on the mountain, handling the chores and receiving guests."


    "Servant girl Lan Rou greets Senior Lan."


    The blue-robed girl bowed, her eyes lowered.


    "Hmm."


    Lan Chang''an probed with his spiritual sense and confirmed that there was no problem with this girl.


    Hisfortable and leisurely life on Little Turtle Peak was partly due to having the shrewd and capable maid, Qiaozhi.


    Not counting the reception of guests, it wasn''t simple to take care of the huge peak and the cave mansion. Normally, five or six maids and servants would be needed.


    Little Turtle Peak was able to manage with a single maid only due to the hard-working Earth Burrowing Rat, the Profound Water Turtle''s irrigation, and the assistance of puppets.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want to crowd the ce. Thus, a capable maid was essential.


    "Qiaozhi, you''ve never traveled alone before. The journey might not be smooth. This is my gift to you, including items to protect yourself."


    Before parting, Lan Chang''an handed a storage pouch to Guan Qiaozhi.


    "Thank you for taking care of me all these years, Senior Brother Lan. In a few years, Qiaozhi will return," Guan Qiaozhi said, her eyes red, trying to smile through her tears, with crow''s feet visible at the corners of her eyes.


    She took one final look at the ageless and youthful white-robed man.


    From their first meeting in Huanglong Immortal City when she was thirteen, to sixty yearster, his appearance had hardly changed at all. He was always so tranquil andposed, pleasing to the eyes.


    "Take care and keep a low profile."


    "I know."


    Guan Qiaozhi flew into the sky without looking back.


    "As long as your Senior Brother Lan is on Little Turtle Peak, there will be a ce for you here," Lan Chang''an called out, waving as he watched her departure.


    Having experienced two lifetimes of cultivation, he could calmly face the beauty''s decline and appreciate the sunset of life.


    Guan Qiaozhi''s situation differed from Mu Xiuyun''s.


    Whether or not she would return, he couldn''t be sure.


    But, no matter what decision Guan Qiaozhi made, he would respect her choice.

 Chapter 141

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon ;) /Zwere


    Two years passed in the blink of an eye.


    Lan Chang''an was now 109 years old.


    At Wuqi Mountain, Little Turtle Peak, everything returned to normalcy.


    Guan Qiaozhi had been away for two years and had yet to return.


    However, it wasn''t as if there were no news from her at all.


    Over the two years, she had sent two letters.


    In the first letter, she mentioned that she had found the hometown of her biological parents and stayed there briefly, only to feel that everything was unfamiliar and there was no sense of belonging.


    Guan Qiaozhi''s biological parents had died early, and there wasn''t a single person she knew in thatnd.She then went to the hometown of her master, Daoist Guan.


    Master Guan came from a local prominent family, which had fallen into decline over the past few decades and was facing a life-and-death crisis.


    Guan Qiaozhi secretly helped them resolve a cmity.


    In the second letter, Guan Qiaozhi mentioned going to Hengshui Prefecture, where she stopped by the Angry River Gang.


    It''s worth noting that...


    Among the descendants of Lan Chang''an''s adoptive father, Qi Jingyun, there appeared a young boy with spiritual roots.


    His aptitude slightly surpassed that of Guan Qiaozhi.


    That young boy inadvertently practiced the "Origin-Opening Scripture" that Lan Chang''an had left behind, which Guan Qiaozhi sensed through the fluctuations of his magical power.


    Back then, Lan Chang''an had left the "Origin-Opening Scripture" with the Angry River Gang to test their aptitude for immortal cultivation, which could be considered a fortuitous encounter.


    However, in the span of ny years, the Angry River Gang had undergone several generations of changes, losing much information.


    Only fragmented rumors remained regarding Lan Chang''an''s records of immortal cultivation, making it difficult to trace the connection.


    "Senior Brother Lan, I took it upon myself to be the boy''s immortal guide. I wonder if you will me me for this."


    In the letter, Guan Qiaozhi included this statement.


    Guan Qiaozhi had no fixed ce of residence, and no established cultivation site, making it difficult for Lan Chang''an to send a reply.


    "Immortal guide? As long as it makes you happy."


    Lan Chang''an had no objections to this.


    Master Guan had been his guide in this lifetime of immortal cultivation.


    Guan Qiaozhi had now be the immortal guide for his adoptive father''s descendants in the Angry River Gang.


    It seemed fate had brought them together again in this manner, as if bound by an unbroken cycle of reincarnation.


    ...


    By the lotus pond on Little Turtle Peak.


    A blue-dressed girl with bright eyes and white teeth was gently stroking the head of the Profound Water Turtle, feeding it.


    The maid chosen by Guan Qiaozhi was obedient and had a talent for talisman crafting, and never behaved erratically or mischievously.


    Normally, Lan Rou wore soft makeup and modest attire that entuated her delicate beauty without overwhelming the eye.


    "Little Lan, how has the Profound Water Turtle beentely?" Lan Chang''an asked with concern upon returning from outside.


    In the first year after Guan Qiaozhi left, the Profound Water Turtle was depressed, refusing to eat almost entirely.


    Every day, ity by the edge of the pond, facing the direction Guan Qiaozhi had left, pitifully gazing into the distance.


    Since Lan Chang''an refused to leave any descendants, Guan Qiaozhi had directed her affections on the Profound Water Turtle during her years on Little Turtle Peak.


    The time the Profound Water Turtle spent interacting with Guan Qiaozhi was even more than that with its owner, Lan Chang''an.


    "Its appetite has improved and it''s not as gloomy anymore," Lan Rou said with a smile, her tone casual.


    Having gotten ustomed to this master''s indifferent and easy-going nature, she didn''t need to be as formal as she had been at the beginning.


    "That''s good." Lan Chang''an nodded.


    Lan Rou served as a pure maid and housekeeper on Little Turtle Peak.


    Back then, Lan Chang''an had only given Guan Qiaozhi the status of a concubine in consideration of Master Guan''s kindness.


    "By the way, Master, the price of talismans has returned to pre-beast tide levels recently. Should we adjust our prices?" Lan Rou stood up, her voice gentle and delicate.


    "We can adjust them appropriately, but slightly slower than the outside market." Lan Chang''an instructed.


    He didn''t trust Lan Rou as intimately as Guan Qiaozhi. The talismans sold through her hands on Little Turtle Peak were only a part of the whole.


    Every six months or so, he would visit Huanglong Immortal City to purchase resources and sell some talismans.


    "Little Lan, do you know why the prices of talismans and rted materials have rebounded so quickly?"


    "I don''t know," Lan Rou shook her head, looking puzzled.


    During the beast tide, there was an abundance of talisman materials in the market, and demand had decreased. Logically, prices shouldn''t have rebounded so quickly.


    "Because there''s a war in the cultivation countries south and east of Liang Kingdom." Lan Chang''an sighed and returned to his cave.


    He had inadvertently heard this information during his recent trip to Huanglong Immortal City.


    The upper echelons of the sects in Liang Kingdom''s immortal cultivation world probably knew the news even earlier.


    "Cultivation world war?" Lan Rou''s pretty face changed slightly.


    Fortunately, the war hadn''t reached Liang Kingdom.


    Even so, the war in the neighboring immortal cultivation countries had greatly increased the demand for various war supplies.


    The ck Fog Mountain Range stockpiles of demonic beast materials found new avenues for cirction, and certain influential forces and opportunists began stocking up, causing the recent surge in talisman prices and rted materials.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Fairy Shi from Xiao Pan Peak came to visit.


    In the main hall, Lan Rou poured tea and left.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, have you heard about the war in the neighboring cultivation country?" Fairy Shi''s voice was gentle and melodic, her posture elegant.


    Since ending her cooperation with Huanglong Mountain two years ago and taking residence permanently at Wuqi Mountain again, Shi Manrong asionally visited Little Turtle Peak.


    Even though she had lost some memories, Shi Manrong and Lan Chang''an hadpatible values and philosophies, making their conversations pleasant and enjoyable.


    This scene was reminiscent of when Lan Chang''an first arrived at Wuqi Mountain.


    However, now, Fairy Shi hadte Foundation Establishment cultivation, had high attainments in formations, and held a status and position that were vastly different.


    She always maintained a lofty and reserved demeanor toward Lan Chang''an, never once disying any rudeness or impropriety.


    "I''ve just heard about the war in the neighboring immortal cultivation country, but I don''t know the specifics. Fairy Shi, do you have any inside information?" Lan Chang''an took a sip of tea, seizing the opportunity to inquire.


    "ording to unreliable rumors, Yan Kingdom has produced a mid-Nascent Soul True Monarch who initiated a war against Feng Kingdom, already destroying one of Feng Kingdom''s Nascent Soul-level sects."


    The information Shi Manrong shared left Lan Chang''an secretly rmed.


    The Nascent Soul Realm was at the pinnacle of the cultivation world, capable of influencing the entire cultivation world''s dynamics.


    Although his understanding of the Nascent Soul Realm was not deep, he knew that each small realm difference represented a significant power gap.


    A mid-Nascent Soul cultivator was enough to dominate several surrounding immortal cultivation countries.


    "Feng Kingdom has three Nascent Soul-level forces and is considered a powerful cultivation country in Great Qing. Why would Yan Kingdom, having produced a mid-Nascent Soul, choose to tackle the hardest bone first?" Lan Chang''an was a bit incredulous.


    Previously, the Yan Kingdom''s strength was only slightly stronger than the Liang Kingdom''s, not by much.


    The Feng Kingdom, on the other hand, was the strongest cultivation country in the neighborhood. Li Erqing''s son, Mu Jiuan, belonged to a Nascent Soul-level force in that country.


    "From the analysis of a Fake-Dan senior, the Feng Kingdom possesses arge mid fourth-rank spiritual vein, which is a cultivation ground that the mid-Nascent Soul cultivator seems to covet."


    "Moreover, Yan Kingdom isn''t alone in this invasion; they have formed an alliance with Chen Kingdom, a neighboring country." Shi Manrong exined.


    "I see."


    Lan Chang''an''s mind conjured a rough geographic map of the areas surrounding the Liang Kingdom.


    Fortunately, Yan Kingdom did not have a direct border with the Liang Kingdom. The Chen Kingdom and Feng Kingdom were located on the southwestern sides of the Liang Kingdom.


    Moreover, Liang Kingdom''s Nascent Soul force, me Departing Pce, possessed only a low fourth-rank spiritual vein, which didn''t hold much allure to the mid-Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Next, the two continued to chat about lighter topics, enjoying a pleasant conversation.


    As evening approached, Lan Chang''an escorted Shi Manrong out of the cave.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I vaguely recalled some fragments of forgotten memories from two years ago." Before leaving, Shi Manrong revealed a cryptic smile.


    "Oh? What did Fairy Shi remember?"


    Lan Chang''an asked calmly, suspecting that she might be trying to trick him.


    "I remembered that I seemed to have mentioned an ancient ruin to you." Shi Manrongmunicated through voice transmission.


    "Fairy Shi must be mistaken." Lan Chang''an denied.


    Without the strength of a Fake-Dan, he wouldn''t even consider exploring that ancient ruin, no matter how great the opportunities like Yin Yang Water or Xuanmu Vine might be.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I''m not deceiving you." Shi Manrong''s expression was serious.


    "Two years ago, I participated in Huanglong Immortal''s demon hunt. Thatte third-rank great demon''s roar seemed to have affected my sea of consciousness, and going forward, I would have asional headaches, with vague fragments of memories surfacing in rare cases."


    "If the sea of consciousness was disturbed, it might lead to memory errors." Lan Chang''an remained tight-lipped.


    Shi Manrong''s eyes, clear as water, gazed at him for a moment before she left, slightly disappointed.


    Lan Chang''an pondered: Could it be that this woman genuinely forgot the key information about the ancient ruins and is now probing me to find it?


    ...


    A yearter.


    In the secluded chamber of Little Turtle Peak, the light of restrictions flickered chaotically.


    Lan Chang''an sat in a medicinal tub, steam rising around him, his body exuding a powerful aura.


    "The body refinement manual has finally reached the sixthyer."


    Lan Chang''an felt ted, sensing the terrifying power within his body. If engaged in closebat, he could easily tear apart an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Even given his favorable circumstances, reaching the sixthyer of the body refinement manual at 110 years old showed the difficulty of the body refinement path.


    With decent body refinement "talent", the time and resources spent significantly exceeded those needed by Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan to reach thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Without talent, sufficient time, and energy, it would be challenging for an average cultivator to break through the fourthyer even after two centuries of refinement on the side.


    Moreover, this wasn''t the true path of body cultivation, and didn''t possess any genuine divine abilities.


    After consolidating the body refinement cultivation, Lan Chang''an tested his body''s strength.


    Superior-grade magic weapons couldn''t break his defense at all.


    Supreme-grade magic weapons, fully activated, could inflict minor injuries. Sustained attacks or targeting weak points would pose a significant threat.


    "Now, even without using talismans or my trump cards like the Nine Seal Stele, it''s hard for anyone below the Fake-Dan Formation level to pose a real threat to me."


    The breakthrough in the body refinement manual greatly enhanced Lan Chang''an''s self-preservation ability.


    Though talismans were powerful, they were external items requiring activation to unleash their might.


    The protection from body refinement, however, was always present.


    ...


    After leaving seclusion, Lan Chang''an took afortable bath.


    Nowadays, he couldn''t enjoy the benefits of Guan Qiaozhi''s "skilled hands."


    Since Lan Rou started serving as a maid on the mountain, Lan Chang''an had canceled some of the more intimate services to avoid any impropriety.


    This had left Lan Rou somewhat disappointed. As a gentle and reserved person, she was unable to take the initiative to seductively entice him.


    After his bath, Lan Chang''an stepped out of the cave.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat brought over two letters.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat managed the letters on Little Turtle Peak, a tradition of several decades. Neither Guan Qiaozhi in the past nor Lan Rou now had the authority to interfere.


    Lan Chang''an took the letters and saw that they were from Feiyue Lake.


    They were from Li Erqing and Mu Bingyun, seemingly sent around the same time.


    Lan Chang''an opened Li Erqing''s letter first.


    In the letter, Li Erqing mentioned both good and bad news.


    The good news was that Li Erqing''s most talented grandson, Mu Congren, had sessfully advanced to the Foundation Establishment Realm half a year ago with the help of an inferior-quality Foundation Establishment Pill.


    The Mu Family of Feiyue Lake now had three Foundation Establishment cultivators, reaching an unprecedented peak.


    This was indeed good news.


    The letter did not specify where the low-quality Foundation Establishment Pill came from, but with the Mu Family''s current strength and connections, obtaining such a pill was not particrly difficult.


    ...


    After reading the bad news, Lan Chang''an fell silent for a long time.


    The joy of advancing the sixthyer of the body refinement manual was also dampened.


    His mind involuntarily recalled distant memories that had almost faded, the once beautiful times.


    Over the endless years, those distant memories had nearly eroded away.


    "One hundred and ten years..."


    He sighed softly; the number of years he silently recited was exactly his current age, marking the passage of time in his life.

 Chapter 142: Staying Out of It

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /Zwere


    At one hundred and ten years old, for those long-lived people, it''s merely a journey neither too short nor too long. However, most Qi-Refining stage cultivators don''t live to see that age.


    To surpass a hundred years is to die a natural death.


    In fact, in Li Erqing''s letter, he described Mu Xiuyun''s passing as a "joyful funeral," a celebration of life at one hundred and ten years old.


    It wasn''t treated as a cmity or bad news.


    Lan Chang''an understood that, under normal circumstances, Mu Xiuyun would not have lived to be one hundred and ten. It must have been the Life Extension Pill Mu Bingyun brought back a few years ago that prolonged her life for a few more years.


    Lan Chang''an then opened Mu Bingyun''s letter, which was tinged with faint sorrow and reluctance.


    Mu Bingyun, having lost her parents in battle when she was young, was adopted by Mu Xiuyun as the sessor to her mantle. To her, Mu Xiuyun was akin to her closest kin.


    "Uncle Lan, if Master had left the family to follow you back then, would the oue have been different?"Mu Bingyun asked this in her letter.


    Lan Chang''an silently put the letter away, choosing not to reveal the harsh truth to her.


    Firstly, he had a tacit understanding with Mu Xiuyun, agreeing to part on good terms; otherwise, they wouldn''t have shared that time together. At the Qi-Refining stage, his ability to protect others was limited, especially while striving for Foundation Establishment, where he could barely look out for himself.


    Secondly, when Mu Xiuyun was at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining and aiming for Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an was only at the seventhyer,gging behind by more than twenty years in cultivation progress.


    In the cultivation world, it has always been the case that higher-level cultivators would guide those below them, not the other way around.


    After achieving Foundation Establishment, out of old affection, Lan Chang''an supported Mu Bingyun, helping her smoothly establish her foundation. This natural progression did not impede his own cultivation.


    ...


    When Lan Chang''an arrived at Feiyue Lake, Mu Xiuyun''s funeral had already concluded. As per her wishes, the funeral was kept simple.


    Apart from the Mu Family, some surrounding forces either did not know about it or did not pay much attention to the event. Her funeral was overshadowed by the news of Mu Congren''s Foundation Establishment, garnering little attention.


    "Big brother."


    "Grandfather Lan."


    Li Erqing and Mu Congren came forward to greet him first.


    At his centennial birthday, Li Erqing''s appearance had changed little, no longer showing the fatigue of ten years ago, looking more rxed and enjoying life.


    Mu Congren, with an above-average appearance and the demeanor of a young man, seemed moreposed and reservedpared to when they first met.


    He smiled modestly, neither arrogant nor humble, and greeted him alongside his father.


    "Congren, achieving Foundation Establishment at your age, your achievements will surely surpass your grandfather," praised Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an hadn''t seen much of Mu Congren, but Li Erqing often mentioned his grandson in letters, praising him highly. In his youth, Mu Congren had been somewhat rebellious and carefree, but after reaching adulthood, he became more stable, helping his grandfather manage the family''s people and businesses. After reaching the seventhyer of Qi-Refining, he ventured out to gain experience. His capabilities undoubtedly surpassed Li Erqing.


    "Grandfather Lan, your praise is too generous. My Foundation Establishment is thanks to the blessings of my father. It is not as good as when you had no one to rely on and went out alone to build your foundation." Mu Congren humbly replied.


    On the way to Moonheart Ind, Li Erqing narrated the details of Mu Congren''s Foundation Establishment. After reaching the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, Mu Congren stayed in Liaoyuan Immortal City for nearly ten years, building connections and amassing a modest fortune.


    His own effort in plotting for the Foundation Establishment wasn''t insignificant, showing hispetence. In the end, with his father''s support, he eventually purchased an inferior Foundation Establishment Pill through a ck market channel he tapped into.


    ...


    Moonheart Ind, in the cemetery area.


    In front of the tombstone, Mu Bingyun, dressed in mourning attire, looked slightly haggard, with a touch more solitude than usual. Her simple white mourning clothes could not hide her elegant appearance and slender figure. Apart from a colder demeanor, she seemed like the gentle youngdy of the past.


    "Uncle Lan," Mu Bingyun greeted, her voice low and her eyes slightly red.


    Lan Chang''an nodded but did not speak any words offort, such as "my condolences. As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, with a lifespan of over two hundred years, seeing the passing of friends and family one by one would be the norm.


    Lan Chang''an paid his respects at Mu Xiuyun''s grave and stayed for a while.


    The first woman with whom he had a bond in this life had reached the end of her journey. He had never seen Mu Xiuyun''s aged appearance; in his memory, she was always the gentle and elegant youngdy.


    His impression of her remained as beautiful as their first meeting.


    Mu Bingyun who was kneeling nearby and burning yellow paper, watched Lan Chang''an''s expression. He seemed only slightly downcast, showing no signs of sorrow, regret, or reluctance. More than anything, he disyed a calmness and eptance born of experience.


    At that moment, Mu Bingyun felt a slight difort. In this eternally youthful man''s heart, perhaps her master did not hold as much weight as she had imagined.


    Rationally, she was not surprised. Uncle Lan, now one hundred and ten years old, had only shared a few years of private affection with the youngdy of the past.


    A few years of love seemed insignificantpared to one hundred and ten years of experience. Many couples who have loved each other for over a decade may find a new love within a couple of years, recing and quickly diminishing the old feelings.


    Little did Mu Bingyun know, Lan Chang''an had experienced two lifetimes. Especially in his second life, where he had many wives and concubines. Not just wives and concubines, even as a white-haired man burying his own ck-haired children, he had sent off batch after batch of his own offspring.


    Fortunately, the reincarnation memories from the Nine Seal Stele felt more like an immersive life movie. Once detached, they left only experiences and insights, without changing his original essence.


    ...


    "Aunt Xiuyun dedicated her life to the family. Her aplishments in talismans reached the second rank. Before her death, she left aprehensive inheritance for the family''s talisman masters," Mu Congren praised while paying respects.


    Currently, the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake asionally produced talented talisman masters and the talisman-rted industries became one of the family''s major ie sources.


    After reaching Foundation Establishment, Mu Bingyun sessfully advanced to a second-rank talisman master, bing the pinnacle of the family''s talisman achievements.


    With the enhancement from her talisman skills, her potential and talent were even greater. In the family, her status subtly surpassed that of Li Erqing, an outsider who had achieved Foundation Establishment.


    After paying respects at Mu Xiuyun''s grave, Lan Chang''an also visited Mu Yunfei''s grave. Mu Yunfei had passed a few years earlier during the beast tide. Due to the fact that he was only a Qi-Refining cultivator, and given the circumstances of the beast tide, the Mu Family did not alert Lan Chang''an, who was in the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    "Mu Maode... Mu Renlong... Mu Xiuyun... Mu Yunfei..." Names of past members of the Mu Family shed through Lan Chang''an''s mind. Ny years ago, when he first arrived at Feiyue Lake, the two generations of Mu Family elders he knew had all passed away.


    ...


    That evening, the Mu Family elders held a banquet to wee Lan Chang''an. Li Erqing, Mu Congren, and a few senior members of the Mu Family at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining apanied him.


    The previous family head, Mu Chengji, who was nearly a century old, had resigned before the beast tide. The new head, "Mu Jing," was Mu Xiuyun''s grandnephew, under forty years old, and was appointed by the elder lineage to manage the family.


    "Big brother, why not stay on Moonheart Ind for a few days? In a few days, it will be Congren''s Foundation Establishment ceremony," Li Erqing warmly invited.


    Lan Chang''an did not refuse. Since he hade, staying a few more days wouldn''t matter.


    That night, Lan Chang''an stayed in a guest courtyard on Moonheart Ind. Li Erqing came to chat, and they talkedte into the night.


    During their conversation, Lan Chang''an intentionally mentioned "Mu Jiuan," Li Erqing''s most talented ninth son.


    Because of the war in the neighboring cultivation world, Lan Chang''an recalled Mu Jiuan. Mu Jiuan had be an apprentice to a Core Formation master in the Feng Kingdom and joined a Nascent Soul-level force there, and this kingdom was facing a joint invasion from the Yan and Chen Kingdoms.


    Talking about Mu Jiuan, Li Erqing seemed slightly conflicted and showed little interest in his son who had moved to another country.


    Due to the long distance, father and son had had little contact for decades. When Mu Jiuan was young, Li Erqing did not particrly like him. Mu Jiuan hadter secured a Foundation Establishment Pill for his father and visited with many resources, repaying for his upbringing. After that, Mu Jiuan almost cut off all contact and settled down in the sect of Feng Kingdom.


    "The ''Golden Sun Sect'' where Jiuan resides has a nearly ten-thousand-year history and is the strongest Nascent Soul force in Feng Kingdom, with two Nascent Soul True Monarchs. With their precautions, he should be safe," Li Erqing was optimistic, not too worried about Mu Jiuan in Feng Kingdom.


    Previously, the Nascent Soul sect that was destroyed in Feng Kingdom was "Blood Sword Valley," which was closer to Yan Kingdom and was caught off guard. The Nascent Soul True Monarch of Blood Sword Valley, heavily injured, escaped with his nascent soul.


    ...


    The next morning, after his routine cultivation, the spirit stones in front of Lan Chang''an turned to powder. Moonheart Ind was a second-rank spiritual vein site, theoretically sufficient for his daily cultivation without additional spirit stones or pills.


    "The spiritual vein of Moonheart Ind, supplying the cultivation of several Foundation Establishment cultivators along with somete-stage Qi-Refining cultivators, has already reached its limit," sighed Lan Chang''an, collecting the spirit stone powder.


    To be exact, the Mu Family had three Foundation Establishment cultivators simultaneously cultivating on Moonheart Ind, which was somewhat straining.


    Unlike Wuqi Mountain, where the poption was sparse, the Mu Family had numerous Qi-Refining nsmen, some of whom were on Moonheart Ind, while others cultivated at branch locations of the second-rank spiritual vein or the first-rank spiritual vein of Feiyue Manor.


    Lan Chang''an realized that this issue might be a hidden threat to Feiyue Lake''s future. As the cultivation of the three Foundation Establishment cultivators progressed, this situation would be increasingly apparent unless they could expand outward or acquire new spiritual vein sites.


    ...


    Seven dayster, two sect Foundation Establishment cultivators flew to Moonheart Ind to attend Mu Congren''s Foundation Establishment ceremony.


    The esteemed guests were Lin Lu and Zhao Tan''er. Zhao Tan''er came on behalf of her master, Zhao Siyao. She still looked like a young girl, with eyebrows like green feathers and skin like white snow, exuding a lively and charming aura. Zhao Tan''er was vivacious and enjoyed livelypany.


    Mu Congren personally weed them and arranged for them to stay in a private room with Lan Chang''an.


    "Uncle Lan, you are here too," Zhao Tan''er greeted, her bright eyes sparkling, her voice sweet, and respectfully performed a courtesy. Though Lan Chang''an found her actions slightly exaggerated, she disyed proper etiquette.


    "Tan''er, Little Lu, feel free to sit down, no need to be too formal," Lan Chang''an said, treating them as peers rather than juniors. Zhao Tan''er''s talent wasparable to his previous life''s, and her starting point was even higher being a sect cultivator.


    The three conversed freely, finding few barriers between them. Lan Chang''an may have been older, but his mind remained youthful.


    During the conversation, Lin Lu''s gaze asionally lingered upon Zhao Tan''er''s charming smile or expressive frown, captivated by her vivacity. Compared to many female cultivators who were dignified, gentle, or charming, Zhao Tan''er''s lively and candid nature had its unique charm.


    It looked like Zhao Tan''er was only treating Lin Lu as a big brother. Both parties were very familiar with each other, and Zhao Tan''er asionally teased and flirted with Lin Lu.


    Lin Lu was as tolerant as he could be, not getting annoyed or angry, asionally smiling bitterly and showing helplessness, making Zhao Tan''er feel bored.


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself, another case of unrequited love¡ªlike falling petals caught by flowing water.


    Lin Lu was much older than Zhao Tan''er, and their starting points, not to mention their innate talents, differed greatly. Under these circumstances, it seemed unlikely that Lin Lu possessed the courage to confess to his feelings, let alone pursue Zhao Tan''er romantically.


    "Uncle Lan, you must seize the opportunity," Zhao Tan''er yfully teased, her clear eyes twinkling as she spoke: "In recent years, my master has begunying the groundwork for Core Formation opportunities. If you can win her hand now, perhaps in ten or twenty years, you''ll have secured yourself an Immortal dao partner." She giggled softly, her face flushed and radiant.


    "Tan''er, don''t be rude," Lin Lu scolded with a smile.


    Lan Chang''an was dumbfounded andughed helplessly. He simply did not respond to avoid giving Zhao Tan''er more reason to tease.


    Zhao Siyao had reached thete-stage Foundation Establishment several years ago, so it was normal to n ahead for Core Formation. Achieving Core Formation usually took decades, if not a hundred years, but those who seeded were few and far between.


    Anyway, Lan Chang''an didn''t believe Zhao Siyao could seed in forming a core in one or two decades, even if it was an Inferior-Dan.


    If it was an earth spirit root genius with a deep background and excellent opportunities, only then would it be possible.


    ...


    Mu Congren''s Foundation Establishment ceremonysted several days, with guestsing and going.


    The night before Lan Chang''an''s departure, Mu Bingyun, dressed in mourning clothes, visited his courtyard privately to seek advice. Facing this former Little Turtle Peak maid, a lone man and woman sharing a room, Lan Chang''an maintained an appropriate distance.


    After achieving Foundation Establishment, Mu Bingyun dared to look him in the eye. Her gaze contained respect, trust, and some hidden emotions.


    Mu Bingyun''s questions, if rted to family strategy or Li Erqing, received no personal opinion from Lan Chang''an. On matters of personal cultivation or talisman skills, he offered some guidance.


    "Uncle Lan, a few years after returning to the family for Foundation Establishment, I suddenly started missing the peaceful days back at Little Turtle Peak," Mu Bingyun said with a slight smile, reminiscing about the past.


    "I wonder how Sister Qiaozhi is now; how much the Profound Water Turtle has grown; whether the diligent Earth Burrowing Rat is feeling tired..."


    They talked for half an hour, asionally exchanging nces without avoiding or overstepping boundaries.


    Finally, Mu Bingyun bowed gracefully and took her leave. Watching her familiar silhouette depart, Lan Chang''an recalled Mu Bingyun''s earlier expression regarding the issues of her family.


    With three Foundation Establishment cultivators and numerous Qi-Refining nsmen, their first and second-rank spiritual veins were strained, leading to excessive resourcepetition.


    Mu Bingyun hoped that Li Erqing''s lineage could expand outward for the family''s long-term development. This was difficult to directly state, as Li Erqing, an outsider who had achieved Foundation Establishment, had protected Feiyue Lake for a time. So Mu Bingyun wanted Lan Chang''an as a mediator to facilitate a fair and eptable n for both parties.


    This kind of family matters, how could Lan Chang''an, an outsider who had left the family for decades, meddle in them?


    The next day, he bid farewell to Li Erqing and his grandson and left swiftly. He had no desire to be caught in the potential split within the Mu Family.

 Chapter 143: Double Advancement

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /Zwere


    Half a monthter.


    By the lotus pond on Little Turtle Peak.


    A lively girl in a flower-patterned dress sat on the back of the Profound Water Turtle, her delicate hands caressing the ancient patterns on the turtle''s shell, reluctant to part.


    "Tan''er, if you don''t go back now, you''ll dy your cultivation, and your master might scold you," Lan Chang''an said with a stern face.


    After leaving Feiyue Lakest time, he didn''t expect this Foundation Establishment niece to insist on visiting the Profound Water Turtle.


    Over a decade ago, when Zhao Tan''er was nning for her Foundation Establishment, she visited with her master, Zhao Siyao, and had fallen in love with the adorable Profound Water Turtle.


    "Uncle Lan, my master is going to attend the Lantern Festival in Zijing Immortal City next month. Are you really not nning to go and surprise her?" Zhao Tan''er jumped off the turtle shell, her bright eyes watching Lan Chang''an''s expression closely.


    "This time, my master was matched by a Core Formation cultivator, who arranged a meeting between him and his junior. If you don''t make a move, you might regret it for life."During her stay at Little Turtle Peak, Zhao Tan''er had repeatedly hinted at pairing Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao.


    Lan Chang''an was half-convinced by her words. Zhao Siyao, a high-value single Foundation Establishment cultivator in Jin Yun Valley, had been the subject of many matchmaking attempts by elders.


    If Zhao Siyao had been willing to bend to such pressures and ept the implied conditions, she would have done so long ago at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, not waiting until now.


    "There are matters between elders that you don''t understand," Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    "Uncle Lan, please just go once, won''t you?" Zhao Tan''er pouted, her teeth bright against her lips, pleading.


    "Your uncle is currently having a burst of inspiration and is tackling a talisman problem, aiming for the superior second rank, so I don''t have time. Next time, for sure," Lan Chang''an replied, unwilling to argue further, and retreated into his cave, activating the restrictions to iste Zhao Tan''er.


    "Hmph, as wimpy as a turtle, can''t you take the initiative for once?" Zhao Tan''er fumed but was helpless.


    "Little green, see you next time," Zhao Tan''er extended a finger to the Profound Water Turtle''s head for a pinky promise.


    Seeing her approaching finger, the Profound Water Turtle instinctively flinched in pain and immediately retreated into its shell. Zhao Tan''er was not a gentle girl; her way of showing affection was somewhat unique, and she had scared the Profound Water Turtle over the past few days.


    "Hmph! You''re just like him, a turtle hiding in its shell!" Zhao Tan''er grumbled and flew away from Little Turtle Peak.


    Ssh! Ssh! Confirming her departure, the Profound Water Turtle sshed around joyfully in the lotus pond.


    "Finally gone," Lan Chang''an sighed in relief inside his cave.


    He didn''te out immediately but went to the alchemy room in the cave, picking up the long-abandoned practice of alchemy.


    Years ago, Lan Chang''an had approached the threshold of bing a second-rank alchemist, but fully stepping into the second rank had been elusive.


    He had to pay a steep price to asionally produce second-rank pills, though never without suffering heavy losses¡ªhis sess rate and the quality of the finished pills were highly unstable.


    Facing this significant bottleneck, Lan Chang''an chose to temporarily set it aside, and then returnter to seek a breakthrough.


    "Hmm?"


    This time, Lan Chang''an felt his technique was smooth, his fire control was precise, and his mindset calm and rxed.


    Several dayster, he sessfully refined a furnace of second-rank cultivation pills.


    Out of six Essence Condensing Pills, two were sessful, and their quality was decent without significant ws. Lan Chang''an was delighted; this sess rate met the standard of a second-rank alchemist.


    After resting for a few days, he attempted another batch of second-rank pills, only to find that his sess rate dropped to twenty percent, and the overall quality noticeably declined.


    It seemed the previous sess was an exceptional performance.


    However, Lan Chang''an was confident that his alchemy skills had improved, and breaking through this barrier was only a matter of time. He decided to slightly increase his focus on alchemy practice in the following years.


    ...


    Three yearster.


    In the alchemy room on Little Turtle Peak, a strong medicinal fragrance filled the air. Therge bronze furnace, about ten feet high, glowed with spiritual light, and its lid trembled gently.


    Lan Chang''an, unhurried, skillfully cast the furnace opening technique.


    A burst of spiritual light emerged, lifting the furnace lid, and a rush of hot steam swirled.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Six pills flew into Lan Chang''an''s hand. Three were as ck as charcoal, considered waste pills. One pill had a severely wed fourth dao pattern, teetering between waste and inferior quality. The remaining two pills had full and crystal clear patterns, resembling green grapes.


    The total number of sessful pills depended on the amount of material used.


    "Not bad. The pill quality and sess rate have stabilized. From now on, I won''t be at a loss when making familiar second-rank low-grade pills," Lan Chang''an smiled and nodded, storing away the pills and furnace.


    About half a year ago, his alchemy skills had stabilized at the second-rank low grade. It had taken him decades, with the support of his cultivation and spiritual sense to achieve this level, proving his alchemy talent was indeedcking.


    In contrast, his puppetry skills, picked upter, were nearly at the second-rank superior grade. If not for the scarcity of second-rank superior-grade puppet materials, limiting practice opportunities, Lan Chang''an might have be a second-rank superior-grade puppet master within these few years.


    "In one more year, I''ll reach the fifth level of Foundation Establishment. Then, I can visit Liaoyuan Immortal City to purchase second-rank superior-grade puppet materials, find third-rank spirit bamboo, second-rank Life Extension Pills, and Core Formation auxiliary pills, among other things" Lan Chang''an pondered.


    At one hundred and thirteen years old, he estimated reaching the fifth level of Foundation Establishment by one hundred and fourteen.


    One of the reasons why he considered the more distant Liaoyuan Immortal City instead of Huanglong Immortal City was because thetter had noticeably declined in recent years.


    Liaoyuan Immortal City was the number one Immortal City in the Liang Kingdom, located on the east side of the me Departing Pce. In fact, the actual controller behind this immortal city was the Nascent Soul-level force, me Departing Pce.


    Back when Lan Chang''an was nning for Foundation Establishment, he chose Huanglong Immortal City because it was a haven for loose cultivators, grounded and affordable, especially for talisman materials, suitable for cultivators without strong backgrounds.


    Liaoyuan Immortal City frequently saw Core Formation experts, so it naturally boasted higher standards and scale than Huanglong Immortal City; thus, housing prices, rent, and other expenses within the city naturally increased ordingly.


    When his cultivation was weaker, Lan Chang''an avoided encountering Core Formation cultivators, not willing to even enter their sensory range.


    Now, at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment, with his Evergreen Technique''s concealing abilities greatly enhanced, ordinary Immortals couldn''t easily discern his true state, reducing his concerns.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an emerged from his cave and epted two letters delivered by the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    One was from Guan Qiaozhi. Guan Qiaozhi had been away for five or six years. In recent years, she had settled around Hengshui Prefecture, adopting some orphans. Some were abandoned babies without names.


    Guan Qiaozhi named the boys Lan and the girls Guan, seemingly trying to help Lan Chang''an extend his lineage in a different way to make up for theck.


    In this letter, Guan Qiaozhi focused on a boy named Qi Feng. Qi Feng was a descendant of Lan Chang''an''s adoptive father, Qi Jingyun, several generations removed.


    A few years ago, Guan Qiaozhi had discovered magical power fluctuations in Qi Feng and officially introduced him to the path of cultivation.


    "From a martial world gang background, experienced and cautious, acting with tact and steadiness, upper low-grade spiritual roots, aspiring to the Great Dao..."


    Guan Qiaozhi described Qi Feng as having many simrities to Lan Chang''an. Hence, she provided some guidance but did not give many resources.


    Recently, Qi Feng had reached the fourthyer of Qi-Refining and was about to formally enter the cultivation world. When Guan Qiaozhi discovered him, he had been practicing the "Origin-Opening Scripture" for many years and had a solid foundation at the secondyer of the Qi-Refining stage.


    "Qi Feng? That sounds good."


    Guan Qiaozhi''s care for the descendant of his adoptive father was actually in line with Lan Chang''an''s wishes.


    He understood Guan Qiaozhi''s desire to show affection toward them, so as long as she didn''t turn Little Turtle Peak into an orphanage, he had no objections.


    As someone who understood his temperament, Guan Qiaozhi wouldn''t do such a thing as dumping burdens on him.


    ...


    The second letter was from Li Erqing. Its contents were entirely within Lan Chang''an''s expectations.


    The Mu Family''s three Foundation Establishment cultivators and the increasing number of Qi-Refining nsmen had strained the spiritual vein at Feiyue Lake and it was no longer enough to sustain them.


    In recent years, the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake had considered expanding to nearby areas. However, the n failed due to theck of suitable targets and opportunities.


    To the north of Feiyue Lake was a Foundation Establishment family, far enough away to avoid conflict. This family had close ties with the Beast Taming Zhou Family, making them nearly a vassal.


    To the south was the Maple Leaf Huang Family, and the cultivation site to the east was the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town, both Huang Family territories.


    The Huang Family had ate-stage Foundation Establishment protector and had recently produced a young Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    To the southwest was a Foundation Establishment family close to Jin Yun Valley, whose ancestor had been a Fake-Dan master decades ago, and they still maintained connections with Jin Yun Valley.


    Ultimately, the Mu Family, with its three Foundation Establishment cultivators, only managed to annex one or two small Qi-Refining families, slightly expanding its industry and influence.


    However, the fundamental problem remained unsolved. If they couldn''t expand outward, internal conflicts would intensify, with new and old factions shing over limited resources and spiritual veins, further oppressing the lower-ranked family members.


    Li Erqing expressed his concerns about the Mu Family''s dilemma and hinted at seeking advice.


    ...


    A few days after the letter arrived, Li Erqing personally came to Little Turtle Peak and had a long talk with Lan Chang''ante into the night.


    "I suddenly realized the deeper meaning of the third suggestion you made when Uncle Renlong died," Li Erqing said with aplex expression and sighed.


    At that time, Huang Tankong had plotted against the Mu Family, leaving Li Erqing as the only outsider Foundation Establishment cultivator. To prevent the Mu Family from splitting, Lan Chang''an made three suggestions. The first two involved resolving internal conflicts, suggesting Li Erqing relinquish power to cultivate a new Foundation Establishment cultivator within the Mu Family''s old faction.


    The third suggestion involved diverting the conflict externally: "If one day Feiyue Lake''s situation stabilizes and cannot meet your faction''s cultivation needs, you can take your direct descendants and establish your own family outside."


    Recalling Lan Chang''an''s words from back then, Li Erqing couldn''t help but admire his foresight.


    As long as Li Erqing remained, the interests of his numerous descendants would perpetuate the long-standing new versus old conflict.


    "Erqing, are you nning to establish your own lineage?" Lan Chang''an asked with a smile.


    If Li Erqing took this step, it would be understandable. His life''s peak was achieving Foundation Establishment, with no hope for greater heights. Establishing a cultivation family with his surname, with descendants continuing to thrive and pursue the path of cultivation, might someday produce an Immortal. This continuation of bloodline was, in a sense, a pursuit of longevity.


    "Haha! How could I let big brother down so easily?" Li Erqingughed heartily, shaking his head.


    "I swear, as a son-inw of the Mu Family, I will remain a Mu Family member for life, protecting Feiyue Lake until myst breath."


    Seeing Lan Chang''an''s surprised expression, Li Erqing felt a mix of inexplicable pleasure and pride.


    "Oh, then how do you n to resolve the hidden danger?" Lan Chang''an was indeed a bit surprised.


    Li Erqing''s decision was amendable act of gratitude. Without the Mu Family''s shelter and cultivation, Li Erqing would never have enjoyed such splendor through his children alone.


    "Congren has offered to venture to a remote region, taking most of our direct descendants," Li Erqing exined.


    "With this, there will be no internal conflict between the new and old factions within Feiyue Lake."


    Lan Chang''an praised, "Congren is truly responsible."


    No wonder Li Erqing had been so proud of his grandson in recent years.


    Lan Chang''an understood the deeper intent behind this n. While Li Erqing would protect the Mu Family and not establish his own lineage, his grandson, taking direct descendants to a new ce, would eventually have the foundation to establish a new family.


    Li Erqing and Lan Chang''an discussed many details about Mu Congren''s n to venture out.


    Near the border of the Liang Kingdom, there were affordable second-rank spiritual veins for rent or sale due to the remote location,ck of trade prosperity, and harsh conditions. Additionally, being on the fringe of sect influence, the security was less stable.


    "This time, I came to seek some protective means for Congren," Li Erqing said.


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an''s interest piqued. He happened to have a reserve of second-rank talismans and puppets. Especially the second-rank mid and low-grade puppets he practiced with, which he couldn''t openly sell without revealing his status as a second-rank puppet master.


    "This set of talismans is a small token from me. The rest of the protective items will be sold at store prices," Lan Chang''an said, handing over a talisman box with several second-rank low-grade talismans inside.


    Then he brought out a box of second-rank talismans, mainly mid and low-grade, with a few superior-grade ones, along with a couple of supreme-grade magic weapons and several second-rank puppets.


    "This..."


    Li Erqing was stunned, his eyes wide, swallowing hard.


    After a long struggle, Li Erqing took a deep breath, reluctantly tearing his gaze away.


    He looked at Lan Chang''an with a newfound respect. He had prepared well, gathering many spirit stones, yet it felt like a drop in the bucket.


    These war supplies were just Lan Chang''an''s routine resources, which he didn''t mind showing to trusted individuals.


    In the end, Li Erqing exhausted his lifetime savings, including support from the Mu Family''s elder faction, and still owed Lan Chang''an two thousand spirit stones.


    He bought a supreme-grade magic weapon, two second-rank puppets, and more than a dozen second-rank mid and superior-grade talismans.


    The next day, Lan Chang''an saw off a dazed and pained Li Erqing.


    Li Erqing had never spent so many spirit stones in his life. The high-quality, reasonably priced war supplies from Lan Chang''an were too tempting.


    The two thousand spirit stones Li Erqing owed were not a concern for Lan Chang''an, he had many grandchildren and there was no shortage of people to pay off the debt.


    ...


    A yearter.


    In the secret room on Little Turtle Peak.


    "One hundred and fourteen years old, at the fifth level of Foundation Establishment. The mid-Foundation Establishment progress is two-thirdsplete," Lan Chang''an slowly finished his cultivation, feeling the expansion of the energyke in his dantian and the deepening Evergreen power.


    This small level advancement didn''t significantly change the quality of his power, but the total amount increased by about thirty percent, aiding in talisman crafting and prolonged battles.


    Gurgle! Gurgle!


    The Profound Water Turtle at Lan Chang''an''s side greedily absorbed the lingering aura, making excited and urgent sounds.


    "Oh? Already at the peak of the first rank?" Lan Chang''an inspected the Profound Water Turtle, sensing the mana in its body was at its peak,cking only a qualitative transformation. The Profound Water Turtle eagerly nuzzled his clothes, showing its impatience.


    ...

 Chapter 144: Healing Karma

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /Zwere


    Ordinary demonic beasts, when faced with the challenge of a major breakthrough, often needed to polish their foundations for many years. If their bloodline wasn''t particrly high grade, much like human cultivators, they could increase their chances of a breakthrough through the use of heavenly treasures and other fortuitous opportunities.


    As a beast with a low earth-grade bloodline, the Profound Water Turtle, which was a long-lived species, should find breaking through to the second rank somewhat easier.


    But at this moment, the information conveyed by the Profound Water Turtle at this moment suggested that it was on the verge of a breakthrough at any moment. This progress was slightly beyond Lan Chang''an''s expectations.


    "Could it be that absorbing the aura of the Evergreen Technique for so long made it easier to ovee its bottleneck and advance to a higher realm?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered. If he had an earth spiritual root and was practicing the Evergreen Technique, he could confidently reach the Foundation Establishment Realm without any external aids, and forming a Core would also be much easier.


    "As a turtle, you need to have patience."


    Lan Chang''an spoke earnestly, patting the ratherrge head of the Profound Water Turtle,forting andmunicating with it for a while.


    The Profound Water Turtle calmed down, retracted its aura, and returned to its usual docile and peaceful self."A normal Profound Water Turtle would take two hundred years to advance to the second rank. This turtle is barely eighty years old."


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want the Profound Water Turtle to break through so quickly, especially on Little Turtle Peak.


    A significant portion of a demonic beast''s strength came from its bloodline and physical body. Advancing to the second rank requires less worldly spiritual energy than humans, and the resulting disturbance is much smaller. However, in the quiet and sparsely popted Wuqi Mountain, such a disturbance would still stand out.


    Lan Chang''an nned to find another location for the Profound Water Turtle toplete its advancement. Afterward, the turtle could use its innate talent for hiding its cultivation before returning.


    Aside from the Profound Water Turtle, there was also the Earth Burrowing Rat, which had cultivated to the peak of the mid-second rank, equivalent to a Foundation Establishment sixth-level cultivator. It was now facing the critical juncture of advancing to thete stage of the Foundation Establishment.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat''s bloodline quality, if converted to human qualifications, would be simr to a high-grade spiritual root, not too different from Lan Chang''an''s previous life''s qualifications. With some umtion and sufficient resources, advancing to thete stage of the second rank wouldn''t be too difficult.


    However, advancing to the third rank would see a sharp increase in difficulty. It would require not only seizing opportunities but also relying on luck.


    Lan Chang''an was financially well-off. In the future, he could assist the Earth Burrowing Rat in condensing an Inferior-Dan inner core, helping it be a quasi-third-rank creature, which was slightly more realistic to hope for.


    ...


    Half a monthter, the spiritual energy above Little Pill Peak became somewhat restless.


    A surge of Foundation Establishment power was rapidly rising.


    "Huh! Breaking through a minor bottleneck."


    Lan Chang''an sensed it and looked toward Little Pill Peak, where Ye Fei resided. However, he had no interest in releasing his spiritual sense to investigate further.


    The cultivation of an immortal practitioner involves constantmunication with the aura of heaven and earth and alignment with the Dao. Especially during a breakthrough, conventional methods can''t easily conceal it.


    Before long, the intangible spiritual pressure above Little Pill Peak stabilized at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment.


    "Ye Fei also gained quite a bit from the beast tide. Killing those two bandit cultivators earned him a windfall."


    Lan Chang''an mused.


    Ye Fei''s qualifications weren''t that bad, reaching the mid-stage Foundation Establishment at around eighty years old.


    Seven dayster, Ye Fei exited seclusion and sent a transmission talisman each to Little Turtle Peak and Xiao Pan Peak, announcing his sessful advancement to the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment.


    In a good mood, Ye Fei invited the two peak masters for a small celebration.


    At the cave-dwelling on Little Pill Peak, the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain gathered.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong each brought a small congrattory gift.


    Ye Fei warmly hosted the gathering, offering an array of exquisite spiritual dishes and bringing out some treasured second-rank spiritual wine.


    "With Fellow Daoist Ye''s cultivation advancing, your medical skills and alchemy will undoubtedly improve as well. This is a fortunate event for our Wuqi Mountain."


    Lan Chang''an was pleased to see this and offered his congrattions.


    "Fellow Daoist Ye''s medical skills are already well-known in the surrounding area. Many fellow Daoists have benefited from your help over the years."


    Shi Manrong, sitting elegantly, smiled lightly.


    "Not at all! My skills are crude, extensive but not refined, far inferior to the two of you."


    Ye Fei, feeling ttered, modestly replied.


    "I heard that Fairy Shi''s attainments in formations have reached the quasi-third-rank, which is truly impressive. As for Fellow Daoist Lan, with your low-key nature, I suspect your talisman skills must have also reached the superior second rank."


    Ye Fei''s words carried a hint of probing and confirmation.


    Shi Manrong and Lan Chang''an smiled without responding, neither denying nor confirming.


    Lan Chang''an nned to slowly reveal his skills as a superior second-rank talisman master in theing years. He had always maintained the persona of someone with mediocre qualifications but good talent in talisman-making.


    After reaching the Foundation Establishment Realm, his cultivation had steadily improved, fitting the image of someone who maturedte.


    After several rounds of drinks, it was nearing evening.


    Cultivators at Foundation Establishment Realm or above had longer lifespans. asional entertainment and rxation, including drinking for days on end, was not umon.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong, being more disciplined, stood up to take their leave.


    Ye Fei saw them off at the entrance of his cave dwelling.


    Whoosh!


    A hurried sound of something tearing through the air came from outside Wuqi Mountain.


    "Ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator?"


    The three peak masters couldn''t help but notice the streak of light, swift as a shooting star.


    "Is Herbalist Ye here?"


    A soft and handsome man in purple robes, holding a pale and unconscious woman in white, flew straight toward Little Pill Peak.


    "Jiang Yechen?"


    Ye Fei and Lan Chang''an exchanged nces, recognizing the man''s identity.


    Years ago, Jiang Yechen had participated in thepetition to be a peak master of Wuqi Mountain. Despite having the best overall qualifications at the time¡ªa mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, a second-rank mid-grade alchemist, and a high-grade spiritual root¡ªhe hadn''t been chosen by Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an had considered that Jiang Yechen was entangled with one of the seven great families, the Jiang Family, and was also somewhat arrogant. In contrast, Ye Fei had a simpler background and was easier to get along with.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang, what''s the condition of the injured?" Ye Fei calmly asked, ustomed to such situations.


    At the summit of Little Pill Peak, a medicine pavilion had been specially built to receive and treat the injured.


    "On the way to her appointment with me, Miss Shen was attacked by rogue cultivators. She used a secret technique to preserve her life, leading to severe depletion of her vital energy. She was also gravely injured by those bandits, with serious damage to her internal organs¡­"


    "The incident urred several days'' journey from the nearest immortal city, Huanglong. I thought of Wuqi Mountain as the closest ce¡­"


    Jiang Yechen quickly exined the situation, cing the serene and beautiful woman in white on the bed.


    Ye Fei checked Miss Shen''s injuries and, after taking her pulse, frowned slightly.


    Her body was too weak, with her internal organs almost shattered, as if struck by a powerful force that reverberated through her body like a blow across a mountain.


    The secret healing medicine Jiang Yechen had given her merely slowed the worsening of her injuries, barely keeping her alive.


    Ye Fei took out his medical box, pulling out several bottles and jars, some for internal use, some for external application. He also prepared to use a healing technique based on his wood-based cultivation technique.


    Out of respect, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong refrained from watching and prepared to leave.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, could you stay and assist me for a while?"


    Ye Fei suddenly spoke, stopping Lan Chang''an.


    Under the puzzled gazes of Jiang Yechen and Lan Chang''an, he exined:


    "Miss Shen''s injuries are severe. The most urgent task is to repair the damage to her heart meridian, which requires concentrated willpower and great effort. However, the other internal organs are also critically injured and equally life-threatening. Given the urgency of the situation, both must be taken care of simultaneously, otherwise, focusing on one would result in fatal consequences from the other."


    "If I handle it alone, there''s only a 40% chance of sess."


    "However, with the assistance of someone skilled in a wood or water-based healing technique, we could stabilize the other internal injuries while I focus on repairing the heart meridian, increasing the chances to over 60%."


    Ye Fei quickly exined as he administered medicine to Miss Shen.


    Hearing this, the three Foundation Establishment cultivators understood the situation.


    Neither Jiang Yechen nor Shi Manrong practiced techniques conducive to healing. Various cultivation methods in the world each have their strengths, but the mainstream types focus on advancing in cultivation orbat techniques.


    Lan Chang''an''s wood-based nurturing technique, which also had healing properties, was among the few exceptions.


    "Fellow Daoist Ye overestimates me."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    "Each field has its own expertise. My wood-based technique can handle minor injuries, but for such severe life-threatening conditions, how could I dare to intervene?"


    With that, he turned to leave.


    Ye Fei sighed, having anticipated this, and didn''t press further.


    He could treat the injuries by himself, but it would be much more challenging, reducing the chances of sess.


    "I still hope that Fellow Daoist Lan will lend a hand!"


    Jiang Yechen shed in front of Lan Chang''an, bowing deeply and pleading:


    "Once this matter is resolved, Jiang will most certainly reward you ordingly. Even if the treatment fails, I won''t me you."


    Having reached this point, Lan Chang''an couldn''t refuse so coldly.


    For one, his technique was indeed good at healing, and if he used his hidden spell, he might even surpass Ye Fei.


    Secondly, if he stood by and did nothing, and Ye Fei failed to heal her, Jiang Yechen, ate-Foundation Establishment cultivator with considerable potential and some secret opportunities, might harbor resentment.


    If Jiang Yechen were to achieve the level of an Immortal in the future, even if it was an Inferior-Dan, it would be unsettling.


    On the other hand, if he helped and the treatment seeded, it would be a small investment in good karma.


    "Very well."


    Lan Chang''anmunicated with Ye Fei through voice transmission to understand the specifics of the injury and treatment n. After confirming there were no major issues, he reluctantly agreed.


    ...


    In the medical room, Lan Chang''an followed Ye Fei''s instructions to assist in treating the unconscious woman in white.


    Ye Fei focused on treating the heart meridian injury, a task requiring highly skilled medical techniques.


    Lan Chang''an''s role was to stabilize the injuries in Miss Shen''s chest and internal organs, which was no big deal for someone like him in the mid-stage Foundation Establishment practicing the Evergreen Technique.


    He simply needed to continuously channel Evergreen energy to nourish the severely injured organs and catalyze the effects of the medicine.


    Lan Chang''an''s hand, through the fabric of her white dress, rested on Miss Shen''s chest.


    Jiang Yechen asionally nced at his hand, his expression nk.


    After an hour, Ye Fei''s forehead was covered in sweat, his mental and spiritual energy greatly depleted. Lan Chang''an, however, remained calm and steady, even looking slightly bored.


    At this point, Ye Fei''s expression looked grave, the situation seemed bleak.


    Jiang Yechen became increasingly anxious, focusing on Ye Fei''s every move, and couldn''t be bothered to pay attention to Lan Chang''an''s palm.


    "Huh? Fellow Daoist Lan has stabilized several of the organs, and the injuries seem to be slightly improving?"


    Ye Fei noticed the progress on Lan Chang''an''s side, a bit surprised but pleased.


    The injuries were interconnected. The progress on Lan Chang''an''s end caused Miss Shen''s overall condition to improve slightly.


    This allowed Ye Fei to focus more on the heart meridian damage.


    After another quarter of an hour, Miss Shen''s paleplexion began to show a hint of color, and she asionally let out a soft groan in her sleep.


    "It''s done, her condition is initially stabilized. I''ll prepare some secret medicines to further treat the injuries."


    Ye Fei exhaled deeply, using his spiritual energy to evaporate the sweat from his forehead.


    Lan Chang''an, smiling, prepared to withdraw his hand.


    "Don''t¡­"


    In her unconscious state, Miss Shen instinctively grasped his hand.


    "Thank you, both of you¡­"


    Jiang Yechen began to express his gratitude but froze halfway through.


    The atmosphere in the medical room became awkward.


    "Ahem! This is a normal reaction of the patient being saved, like a drowning person grabbing at straws."


    Ye Fei coughed lightly, trying to cover for Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an used a bit of skill to gently free his hand from Miss Shen''s grasp.


    At this close distance, he took a moment to observe her. This youngdy, now showing a touch of color, had a delicate and elegant appearance, her skin like warm jade, and her face was as beautiful as the moon.


    Having saved his beloved, Jiang Yechen''s heart was broad, and he didn''t dwell on such minor details.


    He then paid a generous consultation fee. Ye Fei had asked for 1,500 spirit stones, but Jiang Yechen gave 2,500.


    As an assistant, Lan Chang''an received 1,000 spirit stones as his reward.


    Additionally, Jiang Yechen promised to owe each of them a favor.


    "The path of a herbalist is indeed lucrative."


    Lan Chang''an mused inwardly.


    The cost of the medicines used in this treatment wasn''t particrly high.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan''s wood-based life-nurturing technique has shown good results. It''s a pity you didn''t pursue the path of a herbalist."


    Ye Fei joked as he collected his payment.


    His words were actually understated. He had noticed that Lan Chang''an''s technique was at least as effective as his own, thoughcking in pharmacological knowledge and medical skills.


    "Just some small tricks, not worth mentioning."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head, quickly changing the topic.


    "By the way, Fellow Daoist Jiang, do you know anything about the rogue cultivators who attacked Miss Shen?"


    Jiang Yechen''splexion wasn''t great, indicating he was injured as well, though not as severely.


    It could be inferred that when Miss Shen was attacked, Jiang Yechen arrived and must have gone through a fierce battle.


    "There were three rogue cultivators. One was at the peak of thete Foundation Establishment stage, whose strength exceeded that of his ss, and the other two were at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment."


    Jiang Yechen recalled.


    "Thebat style of thete Foundation Establishment bandit was somewhat reminiscent of the rumored ''Xiang Jinglong.'' However, I don''t know this person personally, so I can''t be sure."


    "Xiang Jinglong?"


    Lan Chang''an knew of him.


    About seventeen or eighteen years ago, after the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, when Lan Chang''an was purchasing materials, he had dealings with Xiang Jinglong.


    Not long after, Xiang Jinglong set his sights on Alchemist Hua, a fat sheep ripe for the taking, and eventually became a prime suspect in the incident.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t question why Xiang Jinglong would target Jiang Yechen''s beloved. He had heard that Xiang Jinglong had been seeking opportunities to form a core in recent years.


    Targets that could make him set his eyes on them, it was either rted to opportunities for Core formation or involved treasures of extremely high value.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang, did those three rogue cultivators chase after you?"


    Shi Manrong''s eyes sparkled, thinking of something.


    "They pursued us for a while, then gave up. I fought desperately to rescue Miss Shen."


    Jiang Yechen knew what Fairy Shi was concerned about.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong exchanged a nce, understanding each other without words.


    Jiang Yechen''s cultivation had just reached thete Foundation Establishment stage, likely around the seventh level.


    Ate Foundation Establishment peak cultivator skilled in tracking could very well pursue Jiang Yechen, who was fleeing with an injuredpanion, without him noticing.


    "Sorry to have caused trouble for the three of you." Jiang Yechen apologized.


    "No matter. Fellow Daoist Jiang and Miss Shen can rest and recover at the foot of the mountain. We will enhance the defenses of Wuqi Mountain." Lan Chang''an replied warmly.


    This was a decision made after a discussion among the three peak masters.


    Wuqi Mountain wasn''t just a simple spiritual vein cultivation site but also served as a small transfer and trading hub.


    Jiang Yechen seeking normal trade services here did not vite any principles.


    Even if the leader of the rogue cultivators was Xiang Jinglong, he wouldn''t dare to attack Wuqi Mountain at this time.


    In addition to the home-field advantage, Wuqi Mountain currently had twote-Foundation establishment cultivators and two mid-Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    ...


    Late at night.


    In the mountains several li away from Wuqi Mountain.


    Three Foundation Establishment cultivators stood in the shadows, gazing at the splendid peaks concealed by the Cloud Mist Illusion Formation.


    The one in the center was a sturdy middle-aged man in ck armor, his well-toned muscles exposed, his eyes bright and spirited.


    This man''s cultivation had clearly reached the apex of the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    "Boss Xiang, Wuqi Mountain has three Foundation Establishment cultivators, none of them are pushovers. It''s not a ce to be trifled with."


    A skinny old man in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage remarked.


    Xiang Jinglong pondered, "I''ve heard of Wuqi Mountain''s reputation."


    "Currently, there''s ate Foundation Establishment formation genius, Fairy Shi, and the renowned ''Turtle Talisman Master'' Lan Chang''an. The group of hidden rogue cultivators who were responsible for the Fox Valley massacre met their downfall here."


    "Huh? Boss Xiang knows so much about Wuqi Mountain? Have you been nning to target this ce for a while?"


    The other person remarked in amazement.


    "I''m not reckless enough to take such a risk just for a possibly rare Core formation auxiliary herb." Xiang Jinglong replied indifferently.


    "However, back then, when I was framed, my heart was brimming with resentment, so I privately conducted an investigation into Alchemist Hua''s death."


    "Later, by chance, I captured Lin Ye, the previous peak master of Little Pill Peak in Wuqi Mountain, and after torturing him, I extracted a few clues¡­"

 Chapter 145: Liaoyuan Immortal City

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /Zwere


    "Oh? Could the true culprit who killed Alchemist Hua and framed Boss Xiang be connected to Wuqi Mountain?" The skinny old man''s eyes shed as he spected.


    Xiang Jinglong was deeply aggrieved by the incident. In the past, it was always Xiang Jinglong who plundered and harmed others. But now, to be sshed with dirty water and made into a scapegoat for someone else made him extremely displeased.


    "No!" Xiang Jinglong shook his head. "The three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain have decent strength, but they are far from capable of such a feat."


    Eighteen years ago, the highest cultivation level in Wuqi Mountain was at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment, while the Turtle Talisman Master at that time had just reached the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Alchemist Hua had a talismanic treasure and other means of protection. Even a ruthless individual like Xiang Jinglong, who was at the peak of Foundation Establishment, wasn''t confident he could take him down, let alone crushing him quickly.


    Xiang Jinglong had gathered from Lin Ye, the alchemist, that Alchemist Hua had plotted against Lan Chang''an, and there was also Fu Xuemei, the final disciple of Huanglong Immortal, involved behind the scenes.


    From his perspective, Lan Chang''an was also a victim, and though he hated it, there was nothing he could do.


    As for Alchemist Hua, Xiang Jinglong spected that he was merely an expendable tool used by higher-ups. Perhaps they fattened him up only to ughter himter, or maybe he knew some secret and was silenced by those above. To mislead others, they framed someone else and even left demonic traces to distract the public."If it wasn''t Wuqi Mountain, then who..."


    "I already have some leads! But the true culprit behind this is far too powerful. Knowing too much won''t do you guys any good," Xiang Jinglong said coldly, with a murderous glint in his eyes.


    "Once I form my Gray-Dan, I will thoroughly investigate and settle this matter!"


    With those words, he withdrew his gaze from Wuqi Mountain and turned to fly southeast.


    "Boss Xiang, are you no longer aiming for the True-Dan?"


    "Aiming for True-Dan my ass! With my qualifications and at this age, achieving Fake-Dan is already not easy."


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    At Wuqi Mountain, Little Turtle Peak.


    A man and a woman, both at the Foundation Establishment Realm, came to visit.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I, Jiang Yechen, have brought Miss Shen to express our gratitude personally."


    Jiang Yechen was dressed in a luxurious purple robe, his features handsome yet delicate, with sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes.


    Beside him was Miss Shen, who had just awoken¡ªa woman of delicate beauty and a tranquil temperament, dressed in white.


    "This humble woman, Shen Bixin, hase to express her deepest gratitude to Fellow Daoist Lan for saving her life."


    Miss Shen bowed gracefully, her manner dignified, exuding the schrly air of a nobledy. However, her injuries had not fully healed, and her beautiful face still showed a hint of a sickly pallor.


    "Miss Shen is too kind. I only assisted in the treatment; it was not truly a life-saving act." Lan Chang''an responded politely.


    "Is that so? Fellow Daoist Ye once said that without your help, the treatment that day might have failed."


    Miss Shen''s clear eyes settled on his face, lingering for a few breaths.


    On the day of her treatment, though Shen Bixin was unconscious, she had a vague sense of awareness.


    She felt as if she had fallen into an endless abyss of darkness and cold, and at a certain moment, a surge of verdant warmth flowed up from beneath her chest. That warmth, filled with the vitality of spring, gave her a glimpse of hope in the darkness, igniting her will to resist death.


    After inquiring about itter, Shen Bixin had a strong intuition that Lan Chang''an had yed a key role in saving her.


    "Heh, Miss Shen, please don''t take it so seriously. Fellow Daoist Ye and I have always held each other in high regard." Lan Chang''anughed despite himself.


    During the treatment, he hadn''t consumed his lifespan to perform the Evergreen secret spell, but with his cultivation advancing, his longevity increased, and his Evergreen mana grew stronger.


    Even just healing normally, it was outstanding. But this level of healing, though remarkable, wasn''t beyondmon sense.


    Certain wood-based techniques with an ancient heritage could be even more effective at healing.


    In his cave dwelling, Lan Chang''an hosted Jiang Yechen and Shen Bixin. The two were currently in a romantic rtionship, and had yet to reach the step of bing a dao couple.


    Shen Bixin was the youngdy of a mid-sized merchant family from Liaoyuan Immortal City. The Fake-Dan cultivator who presided over their merchant association was her grandfather.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, this is a VIP token from the Tengxing Merchant Association. Should you visit any of our shops in the future, you can enjoy discounts and ess to some restricted and rare resources." Shen Bixin presented a green token with golden engravings.


    "Miss Shen is very thoughtful."


    Lan Chang''an had ns to visit Liaoyuan Immortal Cityter, so he epted it without hesitation.


    "I''ve heard that Fellow Daoist Lan is highly skilled in talisman making, and the talismans you sell are of reliable quality. Would it be possible for me to procure some for our association?"


    Shen Bixin''s dimpled smile appeared as she proposed a trade.


    Without much thought, Lan Chang''an responded, "No problem. But, I only sell second-rank talismans, and my supply is limited."


    "That''s fine. Second-rank talismans are rtively rare in all the major Immortal Cities of Liang Kingdom." Shen Bixin nodded.


    Soon after, Lan Chang''an took out a small box filled with several stacks of talismans.


    "These, are all second-rank talismans?"


    Shen Bixin was slightly moved, her bright eyes sparkling with excitement.


    Even with the spirit stones she currently had, it would be impossible to purchase all the talismans in this box.


    "Yes, mostly mid to low-grade second-rank talismans. For superior-grade ones, I only have two or three at the moment."


    Lan Chang''an pushed the small box towards her, allowing Shen Bixin to choose.


    "Superior-grade second-rank talismans?"


    Shen Bixin thought to herself, realizing that Lan Chang''an''s talisman-crafting skills had reached the superior grade of the second rank.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an had deliberately begun to slowly reveal his ability to craft superior-grade second-rank talismans.


    Due to material and talent constraints, in Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, talisman masters who could reach the superior grade of the second rank were as rare as phoenix feathers and unicorn horns.


    Before long, Lan Chang''an and Shen Bixinpleted the transaction.


    Shen Bixin spent over eight thousand spirit stones to buy twenty to thirty second-rank talismans from Lan Chang''an, including three superior-grade ones.


    A supreme-grade magic weapon suitable for mid tote Foundation Establishment cultivators generally costs around two thousand spirit stones.


    As consumable items, talismans had a rtively low cost-effectiveness since the power of an ordinary superior-grade second-rank talisman was inferior to that of a supreme-grade magic weapon wielded by ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The power of a talisman spell was also generally weaker than that of a spell cast by a cultivator of the same level using a magic weapon.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an escorted Shen Bixin and Jiang Yechen out of his cave dwelling.


    "It would be wise for the two of you to stay at Wuqi Mountain for a while, at least until Miss Shen has fully recovered," Lan Chang''an suggested kindly.


    Jiang Yechen and Shen Bixin understood the reasoning and nodded in thanks.


    They couldn''t be certain if the three bandits who had attacked before were still lurking around Wuqi Mountain.


    In principle, the cave dwellings on the three main peaks of Wuqi Mountain did not allow guests to stay overnight afterpleting transactions. So for the past few days, the two had been staying in guest rooms at the foot of Little Pill Peak.


    Monthster, after fully recovering from her injuries, Shen Bixin, apanied by Jiang Yechen, returned to Little Turtle Peak to formally bid farewell.


    Watching the two leave, Lan Chang''an pondered.


    Both Jiang Yechen and Shen Bixin had decent talent and potential as Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Jiang Yechen, with his high-grade spiritual roots, had severed ties with one of the seven great families, the Jiang family. He also had some fortuitous encounters.


    When they werepeting for the peak master position, Lan Chang''an noticed that Jiang Yechen possessed a soul dao artifact, something extremely rare among Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    This meant that Lan Changan''s means of merging and using spiritual sense secret techniques to instantly kill Alchemist Hua, Young Master Huang, and the others would likely have little effect on Jiang Yechen.


    Shen Bixin''s talent was slightly inferior to Jiang Yechen''s, but she came from a prominent background and she could easily acquire scarce resources through her family''s merchant association for her cultivation.


    ...


    A yearter, on a certain day.


    Lan Chang''an finally left Wuqi Mountain, flying southeast.


    His destination was Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    This number one Immortal City in Liang Kingdom was located in the central region of the country, to the east of the me Departing Pce.


    Due to Jiang Yechen and Shen Bixin''s visit to Wuqi Mountain to treat their injuries, and the possible presence of the rogue cultivators in the surrounding area, Lan Chang''an had dyed his departure for an entire year.


    This trip to Liaoyuan Immortal City was not only for procuring rare materials but also to find a suitable ce for the Profound Water Turtle to breakthrough.


    It was said that even caves with third-rank spiritual veins were avable for rent in Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    When a demonic beast advances to the second rank, themotion is much smaller, and in a ce as high-level and bustling as Liaoyuan Immortal City, such an event would go unnoticed.


    The geographical location of Wuqi Mountain was not far from the hearnd of the Liang Kingdom, much closer than the journey from Jin Yun Valley.


    With his current cultivation level, Lan Chang''an could reach his destination in just over half a month. However, he deliberately avoided the area around me Departing Pce, adding two or three days to his journey.


    On this day.


    A vast dark-red in came into Lan Chang''an''s view.


    At first nce, the terrain of the dark-red in resembled burning maple leaves.


    The temperature around him clearly rose significantly; ordinary mortals couldn''t survive here, making it a forbidden zone in the secr realm.


    This was the "Prairie Fire in."


    Both me Departing Pce and Liaoyuan Immortal City were located on this high-temperature in.


    After flying for another half a day.


    In the distance, smoke and fiery clouds covered the sky.


    These were the natural formations created by a series of volcanoes.


    At the center of eight surrounding volcanoes stood a massive volcano, atop which was an Immortal City spanning seven to eight hundred li, entirely built from red crystal stones.


    From a high altitude, it looked like a piece of burning red agate.


    Swish! Swish!


    As he approached "Liaoyuan Immortal City," Lan Chang''an asionally encountered other Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    There were even a few Fake-Dan Realm cultivators passing by, their immense spiritual pressure causing nearby cultivators to respectfully make way.


    Fortunately, the stronger a cultivator''s realm, the higher they flew when traveling, so it was rare for them to interact with ordinary cultivators.


    "Liaoyuan Immortal City is rich in fire spiritual energy, making it more suitable for those cultivating fire-based techniques or for artifact refiners to settle in."


    This thought crossed Lan Chang''an''s mind as hended before one of the city''s grand entrance gates.


    At a side hall next to the gate, he paid spirit stones to obtain a temporary identity token.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an had already used the Hundred Illusions Mask to disguise himself with a new identity.


    The Hundred Illusions Mask could store up to three different identities, including their appearance and spiritual aura.


    He had already erased and reced the previous three identities due to their potential connection to various suspicious activities.


    His current disguise was that of an ordinary-looking young man.


    This identity was based on a Qi-Refining cultivator from a remote area north of Wuqi Mountain.


    The mask also allowed for minor adjustments to the facial features.


    Depending on the wearer''s spiritual sense, the Hundred Illusions Mask could also simte different cultivation levels.


    For example, Lan Chang''an had not only refrained from hiding his cultivation level but had even adjusted it to appear as if he were at thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    The resources he nned to procure were of a higher grade. A higher cultivation level would make transactions more convenient and reduce the risk of being targeted.


    Liaoyuan Immortal City had no strict division between the inner and outer city. The city''s elevation gradually increased from south to north. The further north you go, the better the spiritual vein environment.


    At the northernmost part were the "City Lord''s Mansion" and the "me Departing Hall," which enjoyed quasi-fourth-rank spiritual vein environments.


    Lan Chang''an settled in a high-end inn located in the city''s central-northern area, where he could enjoy the cultivation environment of a second-rank spiritual vein.


    The price was naturally steep, costing twice as much as renting a mountain peak''s spiritual vein at Wuqi Mountain.


    "In three months, Liaoyuan Immortal City''s annual mid-sized auction will take ce."


    After spending half a day exploring the city, Lan Chang''an learned of this opportunity.


    He naturally wouldn''t want to miss it.


    This annual auction wasn''t of the highest caliber, with only a few Fake-Dan cultivators and a handful of early to mid-stage Core Formation Realm cultivators attending.


    Before the auction, Lan Chang''an scoured the city''s major shops for the materials he needed.


    Superior-grade second-rank puppet materials, talisman materials.


    Third-rank spirit bamboo, second-rank Life Extension Pills, Core Formation auxiliary herbs, magic treasure materials, wood magic treasure embryos, and more.


    He even kept an eye out for materials for the Youth Retaining Pill.


    Back when he killed Alchemist Hua, he had obtained the main ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pills.


    "Consuming a Youth Retaining Pill would maintain one''s youthful appearance, a result slightly different from the effect brought about by the Evergreen Technique."


    If the opportunity arose, Lan Chang''an wanted to take a Youth Retaining Pill.


    This way, in the future, cultivators of higher realms would find it difficult to discern his inner agelessness through his outwardly youthful appearance given by the Youth Retaining Pill.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Lan Chang''an made some decent gains in Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    He purchased arge batch of superior-grade second-rank puppet materials, which wouldst him for years, at a considerable cost.


    He acquired two pieces of superior-grade second-rank spirit bamboo.


    He bought one second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    He also gathered several materials for Youth Retaining Pills.


    Altogether, Lan Chang''an spent over ten thousand spirit stones.


    The sessful procurement wasrgely due to Liaoyuan Immortal City''s higher level of resources, Lan Chang''an''s te Foundation Establishment" cultivation level, and the VIP token of the Tengxing Merchant Association given by Shen Bixin yed a certain role.


    Tengxing Merchant Association had more than a dozen small andrge shops in Liaoyuan Immortal City, so it had certain exclusive channels.


    "Unfortunately, Tengxing Merchant Association is only a mid-sized merchant association in Liaoyuan Immortal City, far from the status of ''Huanglong Pavilion'' in Huanglong Immortal City."


    Lan Chang''an sighed slightly.


    If he could obtain a VIP token from me Departing Hall, he could purchase even higher-end restricted resources in Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    me Departing Hall managed all the industries and shops owned by me Departing Pce in Liaoyuan Immortal City, simr to the Huanglong Pavilion in Huanglong Immortal City.


    This showed that the Huanglong Pavilion token Fu Xuemei had given him back then had provided quite a bit of convenience in Huanglong Immortal City.


    ...


    A monthter.


    Lan Chang''an attended the mid-sized auction hosted by me Departing Hall as scheduled.


    The participants at this level of auction were almost exclusively Foundation Establishment cultivators and above.


    The few Qi-Refining cultivators who attended were there to gain experience, usually apanied by their elders.


    There were over twenty Fake-Dan cultivators and two or three Core Formation Immortals, all at the early stage.


    Near the end of the first half of the auction, a Foundation Establishment Pill was put up for bidding, with two being auctioned simultaneously.


    Thepetition was fierce, surpassing even that of Huanglong Immortal City.


    The participants were almost all backed by Fake-Dan cultivators.


    One of the pills was casually bought by a Core Formation cultivator, and the other participants dared notpete too aggressively.


    Imagine, when Lan Chang''an was at the eighth or ninthyer of Qi-Refining, would he dare toe here topete for the Foundation Establishment Pill?


    The same was true for ordinary Foundation Establishment families.


    "Liaoyuan Immortal City is backed by the me Departing Pce, attracting elites from all over Liang Kingdom. There are too many well-connected cultivators here; it''s not a ce for loose cultivators without strong backing to mix."


    Lan Chang''an reached a conclusion in his heart.


    In the core area of Liaoyuan Immortal City, casually provoking a young cultivator could easily lead to involvement with Foundation Establishment cultivators. If unlucky, it could even be someone with a Fake-Dan background.


    "Third-Rank low-grade spirit bamboo ''Bitter Clear Bamboo,'' produced by Qingzhu Sect. The bamboo shoots can be used as auxiliary ingredients for third-rank pills, and the bamboo itself can serve as material for low-grade magical treasures."


    "This time, Qingzhu Sect is selling three ''Bitter Clear Bamboo'' stalks, each starting at two thousand spirit stones." The auctioneer introduced the item.


    "Qingzhu Sect rarely sells its third-rank spirit bamboo, and now they''re selling three at once?" Lan Chang''an found it a bit peculiar.


    Many cultivators in the auction hall also appeared surprised.


    Third-Rank spirit bamboo attracted a fewpetitors; Lan Chang''an, with histe Foundation Establishment cultivation, sessfully bid for one stalk at over three thousand spirit stones and decided to stop there.


    A supreme-grade magic weapon was worth two thousand spirit stones, while a low-grade magical treasure was worth over ten thousand. The price of ordinary third-rank materials fluctuated within this range.


    Back when Zhang Tieshan sold a third-rank mid-grade spirit wood, the portion was rtively small, and he gave a friendly price.


    This time, Lan Chang''an purchased aplete third-rank spirit bamboo with abundant spiritual energy.


    If a skilled artifact refiner worked on it, it could be used as the main embryo for a wood-element magical treasure.


    However, such materials weren''t highly attractive to Lan Chang''an, who had already repaired a magic treasure prototype.


    What he truly yearned for was the heaven and earth spiritual object, Xuanmu Vine, which could be cultivated into a life-bound magic treasure.


    A life-bound magical treasure is no trivial matter. Even if the requirements were lowered, the materials should at least be of superior-grade third-rank quality.


    ...


    "Core Formation auxiliary herb, third-rank ''Fire Essence Date,'' an important material for refining third-rank ''Crystal Condensation Pill.'' Even when taken alone, it provides a slight boost for those attempting Core Formation."


    The auction of Core Formation auxiliary herbs sparked a frenzy at the auction.


    Thepetitors were mostlyte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, fighting fiercely.


    Lan Chang''an, whose cultivation was simted to be at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, almost at the peak, found this to be an advantage. Participating in the bidding at this moment didn''t make him seem out of ce at all.


    This auction featured more than one Core Formation auxiliary herb. While trying not to attract too much attention, he intended to bid on at least one.

 Chapter 146: Revenge Strategy

    /membership


    "Six thousand spirit stones... six thousand two hundred!"


    The Fire Essence Date, a rare and important auxiliary herb amongst the Core Formation auxiliaries, was fiercely contested.


    "Six thousand six hundred!"


    A middle-aged man with yellow skin at thete stage of Foundation Establishment made a strong bid.


    "Hahaha! He Yuanwu? A Fake-Dan Immortalpeting for a mere Core Formation auxiliary herb, yet still hiding his identity?"


    An old man¡¯s mocking voice echoed.


    "He Yuanwu?"


    Lan Chang''an and many other cultivators cast their gaze towards the yellow-skinned middle-aged man at thete stage of Foundation Establishment.He Yuanwu was the fourth disciple of Huanglong Immortal and was quite renowned in Huanglong Immortal City. However, ever since he was challenged and tied by Tuoba Jin, his sharpness had greatly diminished, and he had be much more low-key.


    After Tuoba Jin achieved the status of a Golden-Dan Immortal, He Yuanwu''s "fame" grew alongside it.


    Bing a Golden-Dan Immortal was extremely rare and attracted much attention, even from the surrounding countries'' cultivation worlds. Whenever someone admired Tuoba Jin''s achievement of forming a Golden-Dan, He Yuanwu was inevitably mentioned as the grindstone, the background character.


    Challenging a Fake-Dan Immortal while still at thete stage of Foundation Establishment was a tale worth telling, not to mention, that battle had sharpened Tuoba Jin''s spirit, thus increasing the chances of forming his Golden-Dan.


    "Senior Mo, you must be mistaken. I¡¯m just a wandering cultivator at the Foundation Establishment Realm, not a Fake-Dan Immortal from Huanglong Mountain."


    The yellow-skinned middle-aged man calmly denied it.


    "Whether you admit it or not, don''t think you can easily obtain this Fire Essence Date." From the VIP balcony above, an old man in a beast-hide cloak with white hair and wrinkled skin chuckled leisurely.


    "The Fake-Dan Old Ancestor of the Mo Family?"


    Many cultivators at the scene recognized the old man''s identity.


    "The Mo Family had grievances with Huanglong Mountain in the past and were oppressed by them. During the beast tide, the Mo Family even gave birth to a True-Dan Immortal."


    The Mo Family was one of the seven major families in the Liang Kingdom, located in the southeast of Huanglong Immortal City. Many years ago, the prosperity of Huanglong Immortal City severely impacted the business of one of the Mo Family¡¯s medium-torge markets.


    "Six thousand six hundred! Is there a higher bid?" The auctioneer coughed lightly, reminding everyone.


    "Six thousand seven hundred spirit stones." The Mo Family¡¯s Fake-Dan Old Ancestor slowly bid.


    "Seven thousand spirit stones."


    The yellow-skinned middle-aged man, suspected to be He Yuanwu, narrowed his eyes slightly and continued to bid.


    "Seven thousand one hundred!"


    The Mo Family¡¯s Old Ancestor increased his bid by only one hundred spirit stones each time. At this point, the price of the Fire Essence Date had clearly exceeded its normal auction price.


    After a few more rounds of bidding, the yellow-skinned middle-aged man spent over eight thousand spirit stones to win the Fire Essence Date.


    "Fellow Daoist He! I wish your master¡¯sst disciple sess in Core Formation soon."


    The Mo Family¡¯s Old Ancestor smiled, not continuing to bid till the end. He was simply trying to disrupt things a little, making it less smooth for the enemy Huanglong Mountain.


    With the deep foundation of Huanglong Mountain and the strength and connections of Huanglong Immortal, obtaining the items needed for Core Formation was just a matter of time; it couldn¡¯t be stopped.


    Even a dying camel is bigger than a horse.


    Moreover, Huanglong Mountain was at most old and weak at the moment, far from extinction.


    "Hmph, old ghost Mo! You really are a persistent shadow! I hid my identity and set out in secret, so how did you recognize me?"


    The yellow-skinned middle-aged man who had obtained the Fire Essence Date decided to stop pretending, and the aura of a Fake-Dan cultivator emanated from him. His appearance reverted to that of a fierce, bald man.


    "So it really is He Yuanwu."


    Lan Chang''an narrowed his eyes slightly. Earlier, he didn¡¯t dare to rashly use his spiritual sense to probe.


    As a Fake-Dan cultivator, He Yuanwu had no use for Core Formation items for himself. His actions were likely for Fu Xuemei.


    When facing the path to Core Formation, having an earth spiritual root was just a greater hopepared to ordinary cultivators. To truly achieve a True Dan, serious preparation was still needed.


    "Years ago, although Fu Xuemei reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment, she was still some time away from reaching the ninth level of Foundation Establishment," Lan Chang''an mused.


    He rarely paid deliberate attention to the information about his former enemies, to avoid raising any suspicions. However, he had a rough idea of Fu Xuemei''s cultivation progress.


    Fu Xuemei was much younger than Zhao Siyao. This was her progress even after being dyed by her younger brother.


    Now, the power and prestige of Huanglong Mountain had greatly diminished. Huanglong Immortal had consumed a portion of his True-Dan¡¯s essence to save the Huang Dragon Beast, significantly reducing his strength and lifespan.


    Opposing forces wouldn¡¯t sit idly by and let Fu Xuemei smoothly reach Core Formation; overt or covert obstruction was inevitable.


    If there was a good opportunity, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t mind secretly pushing things to prevent Fu Xuemei from forming a core.


    The grudge of obstructing one''s path didn''t necessarily require killing.


    Fu Xuemei''spensation to him back then, including the Huanglong Pavilion VIP token, had already exceeded the value of a superior quality Foundation Establishment Pill.


    This woman wasn¡¯t inherently bad; her reputation in Huanglong Immortal City was decent.


    After all these years, Lan Chang''an no longer harbored much killing intent.


    If he could take action once, secretly hindering Fu Xuemei¡¯s Core Formation, regardless of whether sessful or not, this karmic tie would be resolved.


    ...


    Thepetition for the Fire Essence Date came to an end, and He Yuanwu soon left the auction house.


    Lan Chang''an made a symbolic participation midway, cing a bid once.


    The value of Core Formation auxiliary herbs varied.


    Next, the second Core Formation auxiliary herb, named "Wuqi Grass," was auctioned. Its value and rarity were somewhat inferior.


    Unlike the Fire Essence Date, it could not be directly consumed to slightly increase the chances of Core Formation.


    Wuqi Grass had an initial bid of three thousand spirit stones.


    This time, Lan Chang''an truly participated in the bidding.


    In the end, he won the Wuqi Grass with a slight overbid at the price of four thousand six hundred spirit stones.


    Both the Fire Essence Date and Wuqi Grass were just auxiliary ingredients for the "Crystal Condensation Pill."


    The Crystal Condensation Pill, as a high-end strategic resource, was worth tens of thousands of spirit stones.


    The Core Formation spiritual item "Tianjing Water" that Lan Chang''an obtained from Daoist Tianshu couldn¡¯t directly increase the chances of Core Formation, but it could slightly improve the quality of the formed core.


    Having obtained third-rank spiritual bamboo and Wuqi Grass one after another, Lan Chang''an¡¯s goal for this trip was achieved, and he didn¡¯t n to make any more bids. Otherwise, even with histe-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation, he would attract too much attention.


    Lan Chang''an left the auction house early when a prototype magic treasure was being auctioned.


    Among the participants, there was an acquaintance of his, Zhang Tieshan.


    Zhang Tieshan had disguised himself, so Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t recognized him earlier.


    Ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, aiming for Core Formation, were often stretched thin, so how could they pre-emptively arrange for a prototype magic treasure?


    ...


    After leaving the auction house, Lan Chang''an went to the most famous intelligence agency in Liaoyuan Immortal City¡ªTian Zhi Pavilion.


    This intelligence agency had a mysterious background and was spread across the surrounding cultivation nations.


    Inside a reception room on the third floor of Tian Zhi Pavilion, a cold and elegant woman in a ck dress at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment was responsible for receiving Lan Chang''an.


    "I would like to purchase information on Huanglong Mountain, preferably rted to its direct lineage," Lan Chang''an said directly.


    This wasn¡¯t Huanglong Immortal City, and he had concealed his identity, so he didn¡¯t need to worry about much.


    "Information on Huanglong Mountain has been quite popr in recent years. Our establishment haspiled and categorized it. The information is divided into three levels: A, B, and C, priced at two thousand, seven hundred, and three hundred spirit stones, respectively. Which level of information would you like to purchase?"


    The ck-dressed woman¡¯s expression was calm, her speech clear.


    "Level B."


    Lan Chang''an responded without hesitation.


    Given his wealth, he could easily afford the cost of Level A information. However, unless one was a life-and-death enemy of Huanglong Mountain or a directly opposing force, they wouldn¡¯t buy such information.


    To avoid arousing Tian Zhi Pavilion¡¯s curiosity and investigation, he decided to be moderate.


    "A reasonable choice, seven hundred spirit stones."


    The ck-dressed woman epted the spirit stones and handed a special jade slip to Lan Chang''an.


    "With this jade slip, Your Excellency only needs to pay a small amount of spirit stones to purchase the subsequent ''Level B'' updates."


    "Understood."


    Lan Chang''an briefly scanned the contents of the jade slip with his spiritual sense.


    The information inside included detailed records on the direct lineage members of Huanglong Mountain, their cultivation methods, social rtionships, and current situations.


    It also outlined Huanglong Mountain¡¯s current difficulties, the enemies they faced, and their sphere of influence.


    ...


    Half a dayter, in an inn within Liaoyuan Immortal City, Lan Chang''an carefully finished reading the information.


    "Huanglong Immortal has at most thirty to forty years of lifespan left. With Level A, a more precise lifespan can be obtained with an error of no more than one year."


    "Huanglong Mountain¡¯s adversaries include not only the Mo Family, one of the seven great families, but also therge-scale Hengchuan Merchant Association, which has ties to the Liuyun Sect."


    "The personal enemies, led by the early Core Formation loose cultivator ''Sanhu Immortal,'' with several Fake-Dan cultivators and a difficult to count number of Foundation Establishment cultivators, with more than twenty notablete and mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators listed."


    "Hmm? Why does Xiang Jinglong have a grudge against Huanglong Mountain?"


    Among the names, Lan Chang''an saw a familiar and unexpected one.


    The specific reason wasn¡¯t mentioned. Level B information wouldn¡¯t include such details. Or, one would need to purchase Xiang Jinglong¡¯s information to find out.


    "Good, my name isn''t on the list."


    Lan Chang''an breathed a sigh of relief.


    Years ago, Fu Xuemei and Master Hua¡¯s schemes were rather subtle. Fu Xuemei had offeredpensation, which Lan Chang''an epted.


    Perhaps Tian Zhi Pavilion had relevant information and spection, but in the past few decades, Lan Chang''an had never openly or secretly taken any actions against Huanglong Mountain.


    He had never even uttered a word of resentment.


    Even if he had been monitored, it would appear that he held no thoughts of revenge.


    ...


    The next day, Lan Chang''an checked out of the inn and rented a high-end second-rank cave dwelling in the city.


    Theyout of the cave dwellings in Liaoyuan Immortal City was different from those in Huanglong Immortal City, where they surrounded Huanglong Mountain and were close to the Immortals.


    Here, the spiritual veins increased in grade from south to north.


    The cave dwellings weren¡¯t as densely packed.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s rented cave dwelling was over a hundred li away from the third-rank spiritual vein where the Core Formation Immortals resided.


    The spiritual sense range of an early Core Formation cultivator was about five li, while a mid-stage Core Formation could reach ten li.


    A few monthster, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth above Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave dwelling became turbulent and extremely active.


    The Profound Water Turtle was advancing to the second rank.


    The slight anomaly in the spiritual energy wasn¡¯t conspicuous in the cave-dwelling area of Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    A significant portion of a demon beast¡¯s strength came from its physical body and bloodline. Whether cultivating or advancing, they required less spiritual energy from heaven and earthpared to humans.


    In Liaoyuan Immortal City, where Fake-Dan Immortals were rtivelymon, even advancing to Foundation Establishment wasn¡¯t particrly conspicuous.


    Only breaking through to the Core Formation Realm, with its obvious celestial phenomena, would attract attention.


    The cave-dwelling had a top-tier second-rank formation, and Lan Chang''an had also set up an additional array to reduce energy leakage.


    The Profound Water Turtle¡¯s advancement to the second rank was happening earlier than the hundred years he had initially expected, by about twenty years.


    Fortunately, this was only a minor secret. Once he reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment, it wouldn¡¯t be an issue.


    Seventy-plus years to advance to the second rank was still considered slow among most superior-grade and earth-grade bloodline demonic beasts that weren¡¯t long-lived species.


    During the Profound Water Turtle''s advancement, Lan Chang''an suddenly sensed something and looked in a certain direction.


    Dozens of li away, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth was gathering massively, forming a cloud vortex about a mile in diameter.


    "Hmm? Someone is attempting to break through to the Core Formation Realm?"


    "The foundation and preparation of the one attempting it seems insufficient. It''s only a small Core Formation phenomenon..."


    He shook his head slightly, losing interest. Even if the breakthrough was sessful, it would only result in a low-quality Gray-Dan with little potential, unlikely to produce any significant figure.


    ...


    Several dayster, the turbulent spiritual energy above Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave dwelling gradually subsided.


    Inside the cave-dwelling, a surge of powerful blue water waves lifted a dark green turtle into the air.


    The Profound Water Turtle had visibly grown, its shell now spanning over twelve feet wide, resembling the size of a peak first-rank Profound Water Turtle.


    "Aside from the leaf-like patterns on its shell, the vitality inside its body is significantly stronger than that of other second-rank Profound Water Turtles."


    Lan Chang''an observed silently,paring it to the information he had on Profound Water Turtles.


    "Moreover, this turtle is not only adept at water-based techniques but also exhibits a notable wood-elemental aura within its bloodline."


    Who would have thought that the sickly turtle from years ago, once nurtured by Guan Qiaozhi, would not only thrive but grow into an elite member of its species?


    Half a monthter, the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s new cultivation base stabilized.


    Whoosh!


    After advancing to the second rank, the Profound Water Turtle could now perform water-elemental flight techniques, eagerly practicing within the cave dwelling.


    A stream of blue water-light carried the turtle, making it zoom around.


    Thud!


    Due to its inexperience,bined with the confined space, the Profound Water Turtle crashed headlong into the stone wall of the cave-dwelling, causing the protective barrier to tremble.


    The turtle flopped to the ground, legs syed out as it whimpered and tears welled in its eyes, arge bump rapidly forming on its head.


    Squeak!


    From the rafters, the Earth Burrowing Rat appeared, baring its teeth in a sneer of disdain.


    Lan Chang''an chuckled, ignoring the Profound Water Turtle''s pitiful look andints.


    This turtle had been overly pampered by Guan Qiaozhi. Although it was still young,pared to the Earth Burrowing Rat when it had the same cultivation, itcked a bit of resilience and independence.


    Plop!


    The Profound Water Turtle instinctively cast a healing spell, a soft blue-green light emanating from it, radiating a pure life force that quickly soothed the bump on its head.


    Within just a few breaths, the bump on the turtle''s head vanished, its injuries healing at a speed visible to the naked eye.


    "Water and wood-element healing light? The effects are quite impressive..."


    Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised.


    It wasn''t umon for some turtle species to possess wood-elemental abilities, but they weren¡¯t necessarily skilled in healing.


    The Profound Water Turtle''s dual-element healing technique seemed to exceed expectations slightly.


    However, this wasn¡¯t some grand mystical ability, merely a regr innate spell.


    Over the next few days, Lan Chang''an conducted some initial tests on the Profound Water Turtle''s capabilities.


    Its water-basedbat spells were slightly stronger than those of other superior-grade bloodline demon beasts of the same level but fell shortpared to most earth-grade bloodlines.


    Its defensive abilities, particrly its shell, were outstanding even among earth-grade bloodline demon beasts.


    Its ability to conceal its aura was exceptional.


    Its escape techniques were at a normal level for earth-grade bloodlines.


    Its healing abilities were somewhat above average for its species, especially whenbined with its strong defensive capabilities.


    Even without practicalbat experience, in Lan Chang''an¡¯s simtions, if his mid-stage Foundation Establishment self and the peak mid-stage second-rank peak Earth Burrowing Rat were to join forces, it would be difficult to kill the Profound Water Turtle with conventional means.


    Simply enduring was one thing, but being able to endure and heal at the same time was another matter entirely.


    ...


    Another half month passed.


    Lan Chang''an waited until his rental period was up before leaving the cave dwelling.


    The Profound Water Turtle employed its "Turtle Breath" ability,pletely retracting its aura, and was tucked into the spirit beast bag.


    This turtle''s ability to hide its aura was significantly stronger than others of its kind. At the very least, a Fake-Dan cultivator without expertise in beast taming wouldn¡¯t detect any cracks in it.


    Even a regr Core Formation Immortals wouldn¡¯t easily notice anything amiss without deliberately probing.


    As soon as Lan Chang''an flew into the air:


    Whoosh!


    Not far away, a strong spiritual pressure surged through the sky, apanied by a sharp whistling sound.


    "A Fake-Dan Immortal!"


    "Their core is still unstable, with its energy fluctuating¡ªseems like they haven''t fully stabilized yet."


    Lan Chang''an instinctively looked over, guessing that it was the individual who recently attempted the Core Formation breakthrough with a small phenomenon.


    Soon, a burly middle-aged man with tan skin and exposed, muscr arms appeared in his view.


    "Xiang Jinglong?"


    Lan Chang''an immediately recognized the new Fake-Dan cultivator.


    Having just advanced, Xiang Jinglong was brimming with excitement as he flew out of his cave dwelling and let out a triumphant roar to the heavens.


    His rugged appearance, coupled with a slightly fierce aura and a poor reputation, caused the nearby Foundation Establishment cultivators to avoid him from afar.


    This made Xiang Jinglong, who wanted to unt his newfound status by heading into the city to boast to his friends, feel slightly irritated.


    At that moment, Xiang Jinglong noticed a in-looking young man at thete stage of Foundation Establishment nearby.


    The young man seemed to sense his presence but didn¡¯t try to avoid it. Instead, he appeared slightly surprised, as if he were admiring the aura of this newly advanced Immortal.


    "Hmm? Did this person notice me?"


    Lan Chang''an realized that his briefpse in concentration, as he studied Xiang Jinglong for a moment too long, might have drawn thetter''s attention.


    Xiang Jinglong adjusted his flight path slightly, heading toward Lan Chang''an''s location.


    Lan Chang''an had never made a habit of cowering or evading when faced with higher-ranked cultivators.


    "Congrattions, Senior Xiang, on seeding on the path to Core Formation."


    As Xiang Jinglong''s gaze swept over him, Lan Chang''an maintained his respectful demeanor, slightly bowing and sping his hands in salute.


    "Not bad, you have guts."


    Xiang Jinglong slowed down his speed, his mood lightened further.


    He was in high spirits, and with a wave of his hand, he tossed several mid-grade spirit stones towards Lan Chang''an.


    "You¡¯re the first junior to congratte me. Here¡¯s your reward!"

 Chapter 147: A Hundred Years of Cultivation

    /membership


    ¡°Thank you, Immortal, for the generous gift.¡±


    Lan Chang''an epted the mid-grade spirit stones with a respectful expression, though inwardly, he found the situation a bit amusing.


    A single mid-grade spirit stone was worth over a hundred low-grade spirit stones. This casual gift was equivalent to a few hundred low-grade spirit stones, which was quite a windfall for a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Hmm."


    Xiang Jinglong nced at him indifferently, maintaining the dignity of a Fake-Dan Immortal.


    He did not linger, nor did he ask for Lan Chang''an¡¯s name, as he flew off towards a certain direction in the city.


    "He didn¡¯t recognize me."


    Lan Chang''an could tell that Xiang Jinglong had just been happy about his breakthrough into a Fake-Dan Immortal and had casually rewarded the first junior who congratted him."The effect of the Hundred Illusions Mask is quite impressive. Even when facing a Fake-Dan, it didn¡¯t reveal any ws."


    Watching Xiang Jinglong¡¯s figure disappear into the distance, Lan Chang''an felt satisfied.


    Although Xiang Jinglong had a poor reputation, Lan Chang''an had no personal grudges against him.


    Back then, Xiang Jinglong had robbed Alchemist Hua, inadvertently taking the me for Lan Chang''an and diverting attention away from him.


    Now, he had received a small favor in the form of a few hundred spirit stones.


    In a way, Xiang Jinglong could be considered a half-ally or, at the very least, a useful pawn.


    Even more intriguingly, the information he had obtained indicated that Xiang Jinglong harbored animosity towards Huanglong Mountain for reasons unknown.


    Tian Zhi Pavilion, the intelligence agency from which he had purchased the information, was no ordinary organization. Its mysterious background and extensivework spread across the surrounding cultivation nations. Even the powerful me Departing Pce had to tread carefully around it.


    Since the information mentioned Xiang Jinglong, it meant that he must have at some point engaged in hostile or detrimental actions against Huanglong Mountain, though perhaps covertly.


    A quarter of an hourter, Lan Chang''an found a teahouse and took a seat.


    To be cautious, he carefully inspected the spirit stones given by Xiang Jinglong with his spiritual sense, ensuring that they held no hidden tricks.


    Afterward, he reviewed his gains from his first time in Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    "At the auction, I sessfully bid on a third-rank spirit bamboo and acquired the Core Formation auxiliary herb ''Wuqi Grass.''"


    "In the first three months of procurement, I obtained a second-rank Life Extension Pill and two pieces of superior-grade spirit wood."


    "I also purchased arge amount of second-rank superior-grade puppet materials, which I¡¯ll use to push for the breakthrough to a second-rank superior-grade puppet master once I return."


    "In addition, I¡¯ve gathered about thirty percent of the materials needed for the Youth Retaining Pill."


    The Youth Retaining Pill was something Lan Chang''an had taken an interest in because he possessed the key ingredient, so he had been casually gathering materials for it whenever possible.


    All in all, this trip was full of rewards, though it had also been quite costly.


    Adding everything up, Lan Chang''an had spent nearly twenty thousand spirit stones in total.


    Ny-five percent of Foundation Establishment cultivators couldn¡¯t muster such financial resources.


    But thanks to the fortune he had amassed during the beast tide, the sale of Foundation Establishment Pills, and the substantial spoils from ying Alchemist Hua and the rogue cultivator group, he had been able to afford it.


    After this expenditure, Lan Chang''an had depleted more than half of his umted spirit stones. However, he still had materials and second-rank talismans that he had stockpiled during the beast tide, which had now returned to normal market prices, with half of them yet to be sold.


    He also had an extra Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Such strategic resources were not something he was in a hurry to sell, given his current wealth.


    ...


    More than half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an returned to Wuqi Mountain.


    The first thing he did upon his return was to modify the Spirit Gathering Array on Little Turtle Peak.


    Wuqi Mountain¡¯s three main peaks each had a Foundation Establishment cultivator residing and cultivating there, in principle allowing only one Foundation Establishment cultivator to reside on each peak.


    Previously, besides Lan Chang''an, the only other upant of Little Turtle Peak was the second-rank Earth Burrowing Rat, a demonic beast.


    Demonic beasts required much less spiritual energy for cultivation, and with Little Turtle Peak¡¯s sparse poption, the burden on the second-rank spiritual vein was less than that of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Thus, the other two peaks had no objections.


    Now, however, the Profound Water Turtle had also advanced to the second rank, which increased the burden on the spiritual vein of Little Turtle Peak and could start to seem abnormal.


    With the assistance of the Earth Burrowing Rat, Lan Chang''an modified the small Spirit Gathering Array beneath his cave dwelling.


    By regrly adding small amounts of spirit stones to it, the spiritual energy demands of Little Turtle Peak could be kept at normal levels on the surface.


    Once the array waspleted, the Profound Water Turtle could continue to cultivate quietly, hiding its true cultivation base.


    In the cave dwelling¡¯s secret room, Lan Chang''an, now 116 years old, consumed the second-rank Life Extension Pill he had recently purchased.


    This was the fourth second-rank Life Extension Pill he had taken.


    "An extension of eleven years."


    Lan Chang''an slowly opened his eyes.


    With this, his maximum lifespan at the Foundation Establishment Realm reached 461 years.


    Perhaps because of the higher rank of the second-rank Life Extension Pill, the diminishing returns from repeated use were slightly less severepared to first-rank pills.


    Up to this point, Lan Chang''an had never taken a top-grade Life Extension Pill.


    Since the effects of Life Extension Pills of the same rank could not be stacked, top-grade pills were extremely precious and almost never circted in the market.


    ...


    Over the following period, Lan Chang''an transformed the third-rank spirit bamboo "Bitter Clear Bamboo" and the two superior-grade second-rank spirit bamboos into treasure talismans.


    After reaching the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an was able to activate the first soul of the Nine Seal Stele even more quickly.


    Due to his spiritual sense surpassing that of an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, he no longer needed the descent of his first soul to draw superior-grade second-rank treasure talismans.


    The presence of the first soul¡¯s descent on him offered less and less assistance.


    The second soul took longer to light up and was immensely powerful and unpredictable, so he refrained from using it lightly.


    Half a yearter.


    Lan Chang''an hadpleted four quasi-third-rank treasure talismans and ten superior-grade second-rank treasure talismans.


    Including his previous reserves, he now possessed thirty-eight treasure talismans.


    Among them, seven were drawn using third-rank spirit wood bark as the base material, offering greater power and potential for nurturing.


    The previous three quasi-third-rank talismans, having been nurtured for more than ten years, now had power surpassing ordinary talismans and posed a significant threat to Fake-Dan cultivators.


    Given the quality of the materials, they had room for considerable improvement if nurtured for several more decades.


    In the secret room, Lan Chang''an was simultaneously nurturing all thirty-eight treasure talismans and still had some energy to spare.


    At the early stage of Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an could nurture up to thirty treasure talismans at once.


    After reaching the mid-stage, he could nurture at least fifty at the same time.


    This was the advantage of increased mana.


    ...


    With the treasure talismanspleted, Lan Chang''an then focused on advancing to a superior-grade second-rank puppet master.


    In previous years, he hadn¡¯t pushed for this breakthrough primarily because hecked sufficient materials for practice.


    He faced no barriers in terms of talent or spiritual sense.


    After returning from Liaoyuan Immortal City, he had acquired arge batch of superior-grade second-rank puppet materials, allowing him to delve into the craft with peace of mind.


    Three monthster.


    Lan Chang''an expended a set of materials to refine a superior-grade second-rank puppet, which ended in failure.


    The puppet went berserk after activation, its limbs exploding uncontrobly.


    If not for Lan Chang''an¡¯s body refinement manual, which had reached the sixthyer, making his bodyparable to that of ate-stage second-rank demonic beast, and his timely intervention, this experiment might have resulted in an ident.


    Two monthster.


    Lan Chang''an managed to salvage some parts and, using half a set of materials, made another attempt.


    This time, he sessfully created a turtle puppet that was stable and controble.


    However, while the puppet¡¯s defense reached the level of a superior-grade second-rank puppet, its attack power was merely at the elite level of a mid-grade second-rank puppet.


    It was considered an inferior quality superior-grade second-rank puppet.


    Even so, this level of progress met Lan Chang''an¡¯s expectations.


    Achieving the level of ate-stage second-rank puppet master would enhance his protective means, but this was only a phase in his journey.


    If he could conquer superior-grade second-rank puppet crafting and umte experience for a number of years, he could one day attempt to create a quasi-third-rank puppet, and if sessful his strength would beparable to a Fake-Dan Immortal.


    ...


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an stepped out of his cave dwelling, deciding not to continue stubbornly pursuing the superior-grade second-rank puppet master breakthrough.


    It was essential to take breaks and bnce work with rest.


    The hundred immortal arts, much like the breakthrough to thete stage of cultivation, required significant effort at each stage.


    Achieving superior-grade mastery in any field was akin to bing a grandmaster in that discipline.


    Had Lan Chang''an not been exceptionally talented, with plenty of free time at his disposal, it would have been impossible for him to achieve superior-grade second-rank mastery within the typical lifespan of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Squeak! Swoosh!


    The agile form of the Earth Burrowing Rat darted out from a nearby cave, its eyes gleaming with intelligence as it looked around eagerly, its ws twitching in anticipation.


    ¡°Oh? You want to attempt a breakthrough to thete stage of the second rank?¡±


    Lan Chang''an, having signed a spiritual pet contract with the Earth Burrowing Rat, easily understood its intentions.


    ¡°Your energy and spirit are in good condition.¡±


    Lan Chang''an gave his approval.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat temporarily set aside its tasks on the mountain and focused entirely on its secluded cultivation to attempt the breakthrough.


    Lan Chang''an specifically allocated a secret room for it, reinforcing the protective formations.


    He even allowed the Earth Burrowing Rat to select a few well-aged herbs from the mountain as supplementary aids.


    Breaking through a small realm posed minimal disturbance and risk, so Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t need to personally oversee the process.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Just as Lan Chang''an was in the process of refining another superior-grade second-rank puppet, he suddenly sensed a surge of powerful demonic energy rapidly intensifying.


    In the neighboring secret room, a storm of demonic winds and fiendish energy swirled, exuding an oppressive forceparable to that of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    ¡°This step has finally been taken sessfully.¡±


    A smile yed at the corner of Lan Chang''an¡¯s lips.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s aptitude was equivalent to a human cultivator with a high-grade spiritual root. Over the years, Lan Chang''an has provided a steady supply of spiritual pet resources, albeit at a moderate level.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was not a long-lived species; its lifespan was simr to that of a human.


    At over 110 years old, its breakthrough to thete stage of the second rank wasn''t considered quick, but its foundation was solid.


    The fact that it had made this breakthrough without relying on any breakthrough pills gave Lan Chang''an a sense offort.


    This way, there was a chance that the Earth Burrowing Rat could one day condense an inferior-quality core, albeit with some hope.


    Inparison, Lan Chang''an¡¯s journey hadn¡¯t been as smooth.


    Two monthster.


    For the third time since returning, he attempted to refine a superior-grade second-rank puppet, and once again, he failed.


    Even with talent, such setbacks were to be expected.


    In the cultivation of the hundred immortal arts, to attain the highest grade in any rank, you had to burn money.


    Talent, money, and time¡ªone needed all three.


    Some cultivators were born into wealth andcked nothing in terms of resources, but they were often limited by either their talent or the time they could dedicate to their craft.


    In contrast, those with backgrounds powerful enough to rival the heavens had no need to delve into the hundred immortal arts. They could focus solely on the pursuit of immortality, knowing that whatever they needed would be made for them by others.


    ...


    More than half a yearter.


    Inside the secret room on Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an finally pieced together a robust puppet, its body covered in scales and shaped like a leopard¡¯s head.


    The leopard-headed puppet¡¯s eyes glowed a dark red, and each hand wielded arge, heavy battle-axe, exuding a bloodthirsty and imposing presence.


    ¡°After learning from the experience of my previous failures and refining every detail multiple times, there shouldn¡¯t be any major issues with this attempt.¡±


    Lan Chang''an exhaled a long breath of turbid air.


    He opened the protective scales on the puppet¡¯s back and embedded several mid-grade spirit stones into the slots.


    Then, he activated the puppet using the puppet control technique.


    The leopard-headed puppet¡¯s eyes lit up, and it raised one of the heavy battle axes. A wave of oppressive energy surged forth.


    Whoosh!


    With a flick of the puppet¡¯s arm, the battle-axe spun through the air, enveloped in a dark, swirling wind. It shed through the reinforced barriers of the secret room before boomeranging back into the puppet¡¯s grasp without damaging the walls.


    ¡°I¡¯ve finally be a superior-grade second-rank puppet master.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s face lit up with joy.


    This leopard-headed puppet excelled in frontal assaults. The heavy battle axes it wielded could be used in closebat or thrown for mid-range attacks.


    Previously, the mid-grade second-rank spear-wielding puppet would likely lose even in a two-on-one battle against this new creation.


    After all, this puppet was designed to contend withte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, representing the pinnacle of power at this Realm.


    Certainte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators with deep foundations and powerful inheritances could even take on two or three mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators at once.


    However, superior-grade second-rank puppets consumed spirit stones rapidly.


    Lan Chang''an conducted a brief test, confirmed that everything met his standards, and then stored the puppet in his storage pouch.


    Walking out of the cave, a sudden sensation swept over him. The Evergreen mana within him crossed another cycle of years, subtly advancing ever so slightly.


    The power of the Evergreen mana now becameparable to the technique of an inner disciple from Jin Yun Valley.


    At that moment, Lan Chang''an realized he was now 118 years old.


    ¡°One hundred years of cultivation¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an''s mind drifted, and his tranquil, unfathomable eyes rippled faintly.


    The aura he usually kept hidden began to leak out slightly.


    Nearby, the maidservant Lan Rou rubbed her eyes in disbelief.


    For a brief moment, the white-robed man in her vision seemed like an ancient tree that had stood for a hundred years¡ªtall, majestic, and imbued with the wear and tear of the passing years.


    ...


    ¡°My first life didn¡¯tst this long. I died several decades earlier, fighting for the chance to reach the Foundation Establishment Realm.¡±


    ¡°In my second life, I had already reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment at this age, and I was exhaustively nning and scheming for the chance to form a core.¡±


    ¡°In this life, my cultivation may not be as advanced as in my previous life, but my foundation is much deeper, my mind is calm and unhurried, and my overall strength far surpasses what it was before.¡±


    Thinking this, Lan Chang''an smiled faintly.


    In his previous life, only his cultivation was superior at this age. His foundation, background, and strength couldn¡¯tpare to what he had now.


    ¡°A century of umtion has made me almost unmatched within the Foundation Establishment Realm. Even against a Fake-Dan Immortal, I can hold my own.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was confident in the results of his century-long cultivation.


    Although he hadn¡¯t reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment yet, his body refinement manual had reached a levelparable to that of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, whichpensated for this.


    He also had ate-stage second-rank demonic beastpanion.


    Additionally, he possessed a superior-grade second-rank puppet and, as a puppet master, could fully unleash the puppet¡¯s power.


    He owned a prototype magic treasure in the process of nurturing.


    And he had thirty-eight powerful treasure talismans, the weakest of which was on par with an ordinary talismanic treasure, while the strongest approached a strike from an early-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    ¡°The only regret is that I¡¯ve made no progress with the Nine Seal Stele in this life.¡± Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly.


    His consciousness entered the Nine Seal Stele.


    The image of the handsome young man from his first life and the white-bearded old man from his second life were both illuminated. In the third frame, a serene white-robed man¡¯s figure was faintly visible, yet not fully formed.


    The remaining six frames below werepletely nk.


    ¡°With my current foundation and strength, my focus in theing decades will be on securing the opportunity to form a Core.¡±


    Having crossed the hundred-year mark in his cultivation, Lan Chang''an began contemting his next steps.


    For most cultivators, reaching the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment and aiming for Core Formation was still a distant goal, as they struggled to even guarantee a breakthrough to thete stage.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t have such concerns.


    He had a long lifespan but modest talent, he needed to n much earlier.


    ...


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s nimble form darted out of a nearby cave, interrupting Lan Chang''an¡¯s thoughts.


    Lan Chang''an smiled and took two letters from the rat, gently stroking its head.


    One letter was from Guan Qiaozhi.


    It had been a long time since he had received a letter from her, and the frequency of her correspondence had been steadily decreasing.


    The content of the letter was the same as before, describing her experiences in the mortal world and her deeds of umting virtue and doing good.


    The other letter was from Zhao Siyao.


    In her letter, she detailed thetest developments in the war of the neighboring country¡¯s cultivation world.


    Having lived through several lifetimes, Lan Chang''an paid close attention to the broader dynamics of the cultivation world.


    Feng Kingdom, a neighboring nation with strength far surpassing that of Liang Kingdom, had been embroiled in a cultivation war, which naturally drew Lan Chang''an¡¯s attention.


    In previous correspondence, he had expressed to Zhao Siyao his desire to be informed of any significant changes in the neighboring nation¡¯s cultivation war:


    ¡°If there¡¯s any major shift in the cultivation war of the neighboring countries, please notify me as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°The leading cultivation sect in Feng Kingdom, the ''Golden Sun Sect'', saw its new and old Nascent Soul True Monarchs challenge the mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator born from the ''Endless Sect'' of Yan Kingdom, Chu Tianfeng.¡±


    Upon reading the key details in the letter, Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression grew solemn.


    ¡°Despite the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s two Nascent Soul True Monarchs attacking together, they were still defeated by Chu Tianfeng and forced to retreat.¡±

 Chapter 148: The Chaos Begins

    /membership


    The war in the neighboring cultivation worlds left Lan Chang''an with a growing sense of unease. The rtively stable environment of the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, along with the surrounding regions, had allowed him to cultivate discreetly for over a century.


    But now, this peace seemed to be on the brink of being shattered.


    In the southern part of Liang, three kingdoms were at war. The Yan and Chen Kingdoms had joined forces to invade the Feng Kingdom.


    The Endless Sect of Yan had produced a mid-Nascent Soul cultivator, and there was also an experienced early-Nascent Soul cultivator stationed to guard their homnd.


    Feng had originally boasted three Nascent Soul-level forces, but one of its True Monarchs from the Blood Sword Valley had his body destroyed by Chu Tianfeng, forcing his Nascent Soul to flee.


    Even when Feng''s most powerful sect, the Golden Sun Sect, had two of their Nascent Soul True Monarchs join forces against Chu Tianfeng, they still found themselves at a disadvantage.


    If the war were to escte, it would be difficult for Liang Kingdom to remain unaffected.


    Lan Chang''an recalled the auction two years ago, where Qingzhu Sect had unusually sold third-rank spiritual bamboo, which was indeed out of the ordinary....


    Over the next six months, the prices of talismans and their raw materials quietly began to rise. More cultivators came to Wuqi Mountain to purchase talismans, pills, and formations than before.


    This increase in demand had little to do with the war in the neighboring countries, as the conflict had yet to spill over into the Liang Kingdom.


    Soon after, news arrived.


    The situation around Huanglong Immortal City had grown tense. Conflicts between Huanglong Mountain, the Mo Family, the Hengchuan Merchant Association, and several other major forces had escted, leading to small-scale shes.


    "Huanglong Immortal City is in chaos as well?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered deeply.


    From a rational perspective, he did not wish for the surrounding situation to be turbulent. But when he thought of the grudge of having his path obstructed years ago, this was a rare opportunity that might note again for centuries.


    If he dyed any longer and allowed Fu Xuemei to sessfully form her core, it would be nearly impossible to have another chance like this for the next hundred, perhaps even several hundred years.


    The more chaotic the situation, the easier it would be to fish in troubled waters. Many ordinary cultivators without strong backgrounds had seized their chance to rise to prominence in times of chaos, achieving great reversals in their lives.


    After a moment of thought, Lan Chang''an wrote a letter to Zheng Centipede.


    The Zheng Family''s Apricot Vi was closer to Huanglong Immortal City, making it easier to gather information.


    ...


    More than half a monthter, Zheng Centipede hurriedly visited Little Turtle Peak, looking worse for wear.


    This time, Zheng Centipede was not alone; he had brought along a refined and handsome young man.


    "Fellow Daoist Zheng, are you injured?"


    Inside the cave, Lan Chang''an looked at the ck-skinned old man, whose aura was chaotic and who appeared more haggard and aged than before.


    "I was ambushed by a bastard some time ago and got injured. But I''ve mostly recovered now, so it''s not a big issue," Zheng Centipede exined, showing a trace of fatigue on his face.


    However, Lan Chang''an sensed that Zheng Centipede''s lifespan had been slightly reduced from its normal trajectory, indicating that the injury he had suffered was not minor and had somewhat affected both his foundation and longevity.


    Given his age, it was unlikely that Zheng Centipede would reach the mid-Foundation Establishment stage in his lifetime.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, this is the new talent of the Zheng Family, Zheng Sheng. His aptitude is decent, and he has some knowledge of talismans," Zheng Centipede introduced the schrly, handsome young man beside him.


    "Junior Zheng Sheng pays respects to Master Lan."


    The young man respectfully bowed in greeting.


    "Mm." Lan Chang''an nced at Zheng Sheng. With an eighthyer Qi-Refining cultivation, his potential wasparable to that of Mu Congren and Mu Bingyun.


    Zheng Centipede had likely brought Zheng Sheng to make a good impression, and after a few casual exchanges, he sent the young man away.


    Lan Chang''an could easily tell that Zheng Sheng was a future Foundation Establishment candidate that the Zheng Family intended to cultivate, otherwise he would not have been personally introduced.


    "The situation in Huanglong Immortal City is indeed perilous..." Zheng Centipede got to the point, his tone heavy.


    If a major disturbance broke out in Huanglong Immortal City, his Apricot Vi could be affected, so naturally, he kept a close eye on developments.


    "ording to some rumors, Huanglong Mountain acquired the primary ingredient for the ''Crystal Condensation Pill'' half a year ago, and they have also gathered most of the auxiliary ingredients."


    "Around the same time, conflicts between forces led by the Mo Family and Hengchuan Merchant Association and Huanglong Mountain began to escte, involving old grudges, current tensions, and interests."


    "Huanglong Mountain was mainly on the defensive, but when it came to the safety of their core members and fundamental interests, they did not yield an inch. Several skirmishes have already urred, including shes involving several Fake-Dan Immortals."


    "Huanglong Immortal''s eldest disciple, Ji Yifeng, was seriously injured in one such battle."


    ...


    In terms of intelligence, Zheng Centipede might not be as well-informed as the Tian Zhi Pavilion, but the Zheng Family was closer to Huanglong Immortal City and had rtively reliable sources.


    Lan Chang''an could not always run to Liaoyuan Immortal City¡¯s "Tian Zhi Pavilion" to gather information.


    The background of Tian Zhi Pavilion was mysterious and their abilities were unpredictable, making it unsuitable for too much interaction.


    "Ji Yifeng, as Huanglong Immortal''s eldest disciple, is also getting on in years," Lan Chang''an remarked.


    "He''s about three hundred years old," Zheng Centipede added.


    The lifespan of a Fake-Dan Immortal theoretically exceeds that of a Foundation Establishment cultivator by a hundred years.


    Without realizing it, the once prosperous Huanglong Mountain had entered its twilight years, with its pirs nearing the end of their lives, painting a picture reminiscent of a sunset.


    He Yuanwu was barely in his prime.


    Fu Xuemei was at a critical juncture in her quest to form her core.


    "If it''s just minor chaos, our Wuqi Mountain can still make a tidy profit. Let''s hope nothing major happens," Lan Chang''an said in a neutral tone.


    There was no need for Lan Chang''an to be discreet when inquiring about Huanglong Mountain''s situation from Zheng Centipede, as he had a legitimate interest in the matter.


    Just as during the beast tide, he had seized the opportunity to make money. The instability in Huanglong Immortal City would lead to a simr scenario where the prices of war supplies would rise.


    It was predictable that various forces, bothrge and small, and notable figures would all be paying close attention to the situation.


    "I, too, hope there won¡¯t be any major disturbances," Zheng Centipede sighed, speaking from the heart.


    Over the years, the Zheng Family had finally established a foothold and was on an upward trajectory.


    The two then discussed other topics. The Zheng Family''s current focus was on obtaining a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill, and they were in the process of gathering materials.


    During this period, Zheng Centipede purchased some second-rank talismans from Lan Chang''an.


    Due to the rising prices of talismans, Lan Chang''an had implemented a limit on purchases for the time being.


    He also sold Zheng Centipede a discarded second-rank low-grade puppet, which was of inferior quality.


    "Hmm? I haven''t seen Fellow Daoist Chen recently," Lan Chang''an said with a smile.


    Without this person''s constant harassment, Wuqi Mountain had been much more peaceful. He and Fairy Shi asionally conversed, drank tea, and enjoyed a harmonious and pleasant atmosphere.


    "Haha, Fellow Daoist Chen has been living like an honored guest in the Zheng Family, and he''s been reluctant to leave for years. There''s not much I can do about it," Zheng Centipede grinned.


    "s, this person has be so indulgent that his cultivation has regressed, falling back to the Qi-Refining stage," Lan Chang''an mused.


    In his heart, he understood the situation.


    Most of the remaining members of the Chen Family had either left or scattered ten years ago. Once a prominent family with a legacy spanning centuries, the Iron Apricot Chen Family had faded into obscurity.


    Given Zheng Centipede''s ruthless nature, he would undoubtedly squeeze thest bit of value from Chen Sheng, leaving no future troubles behind.


    ...


    Time passed.


    Four or five months went by.


    Lan Chang''an continued to monitor the situation in Huanglong Immortal City.


    The conflicts between Huanglong Mountain and the Mo Family, as well as the Hengchuan Merchant Association, continued to escte, much like the rising prices of talismans.


    The Mo Family was one of the seven great cultivation families, having produced True-Dan cultivators and holding unprecedented power.


    Hengchuan Merchant Association was backed by the Liuyun Sect, with influence primarily in the northern regions of the Liang Kingdom.


    Years ago, the Hengchuan Merchant Association had attempted to expand into the central regions of the Liang Kingdom.


    Their first step was to establish a stronghold on the other side of the ck Fog Mountain Range, in Huanglong Immortal City. This effort led to a dispute with Huanglong Mountain, which ended in failure.


    At the time, severalrge merchant associations supported Huanglong Mountain, preventing the Hengchuan Merchant Association from seeding.


    Now, Huanglong Mountain''s strength had greatly diminished, and the forces that once supported it either remained silent or watched from the shadows.


    Two months ago, another major incident urred at Huanglong Mountain.


    The third-rank alchemist that Huanglong Mountain had employed for years was poached by the "me Departing Hall" of Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    This was a significant blow to Huanglong Mountain.


    Their n to refine the "Crystal Condensation Pill" was hindered, for one thing.


    Moreover, the force behind me Departing Hall was the me Departing Pce, which primarily managed the pce''s industries.


    me Departing Pce held an exalted position in the Liang Kingdom and typically did not intervene in the disputes of local powers.


    me Departing Hall''s actions are essentially opportunistic, like looting a burning house, which led other factions to draw certain conclusions.


    For example, rumors spread that "me Departing Pce doesn''t favor Huanglong Mountain."


    This situation put Huanglong Mountain in a difficult position.


    "The time is approaching, but it''s not yet the ideal moment," Lan Chang''an thought to himself as he continued to observe the situation, nning to personally visit Huanglong Immortal City at some point.


    Aside from obstructing Fu Xuemei''s core formation, Huanglong Mountain, now beset by dangers, still possessed aplete opportunity for Core Formation.


    Lan Chang''an had remained in seclusion because Huanglong Immortal, the leader of Huanglong Mountain, had yet to reveal his strength. Although Huanglong Immortal''s power had undoubtedly waned, it was still unclear just how much he had declined.


    Only after confirming that Huanglong Mountain''s main pir was too upied to interfere would Lan Chang''an consider taking action from the shadows.


    A few dayster, a noble female cultivator arrived from afar, bringing thetest news.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, your elegance remains undiminished. I apologize for the disturbance, but I need to impose on you this time," said a serene and beautiful woman with fair skin, dressed in a green silk robe, as she gracefully descended before Little Turtle Peak.


    "Miss Shen, pleasee in."


    Lan Chang''an recognized the visitor as Shen Bixin, the eldest daughter of the Tengxing Merchant Association.


    Two years ago, when Lan Chang''an had gone to Liaoyuan Immortal City to purchase resources, the VIP token from the Tengxing Merchant Association had been of some help.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Shen Bixin had note alone this time. She had just entered thete-stage Foundation Establishment and there was anotherte Foundation Establishment cultivator in the vicinity who was secretly protecting her.


    This protector was not her lover, Jiang Yechen, but anotherte-stage cultivator who had reached the peak.


    This did not surprise Lan Chang''an.


    The instability around Huanglong Immortal City and the possibility of further esction were now widely acknowledged by the various powers.


    ...

 Chapter 149: A Hundred-Year Window

    /membership


    Inside the cave mansion, the host and guest were seated separately.


    Shen Bixin, with her tranquil and gentle demeanor, exchanged a few polite words with Lan Chang''an before quickly getting to the main topic.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, as a top-tier second-rank Talisman Master, you''re highly respected in the surrounding areas with a sterling reputation."


    "This time, I''vee to make a bulk purchase of second-rank talismans. No matter how many you have, the ''Tengxing Merchant Association'' will buy them all at the current market''s highest price."


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised.


    Although he had some guesses about Shen Bixin''s intentions, he hadn''t expected her demand to be sorge.


    She wanted everything he had.


    However, it seemed this woman had underestimated both the quantity and quality of talismans in Lan Chang''an''s possession."I need to maintain the stability of my business at Little Turtle Peak, so I''m limiting the sale of talismans to outsiders. But since Miss Shen has asked, I will do my best to provide the remaining stock."


    Lan Chang''an showed a hint of reluctance and spoke after some contemtion.


    For the Tengxing Merchant Association to be buying up so many war supplies, there had to be a reason.


    Even if there was turmoil in Huanglong Immortal City and a major conflict erupted, it would only affect a limited area and would likely return to normal soon.


    There was no need for such a significant investment.


    Lan Chang''an had stockpiled materials and talismans during the lull after the beast tide, so his costs were very low.


    He could afford to wait and didn''t need to rush to cash in just yet.


    "Oh, and if you have any high-quality Restriction-Breaking Talismans, the price can be increased by thirty percent."


    Shen Bixin added.


    "Restriction-Breaking Talismans?"


    Lan Chang''an''s mind raced as he remainedposed and took out a small box filled with second-rank talismans.


    Most were of low grade, a smaller portion were mid-grade, and there were only four or five superior-grade talismans.


    Shen Bixin was generally satisfied with the quantity and quality of talismans Lan Chang''an provided.


    Currently, talismans were in high demand on the market, and purchasing them in bulk was quite difficult.


    "Aside from these two mid-grade second-rank Restriction-Breaking Talismans, do you have any more?" Shen Bixin inquired.


    "These are three superior-grade second-rank Restriction-Breaking Talismans. Normally, I don''t sell these, but since I feel a certain affinity with Miss Shen, I''ll make an exception this time."


    After some thought, Lan Chang''an pulled out three additional talismans from his storage pouch.


    Restriction-Breaking Talismans are particrly effective against formations and restrictive barriers.


    Lan Chang''an had a pretty good idea why Shen Bixin was willing to pay such a high price for them.


    "That''s excellent, many thanks to Talisman Master Lan for your help," Shen Bixin said, her bright eyes shining with joy.


    Restriction-Breaking Talismans were rtively niche, and superior-grade second-rank ones were rare.


    It was understandable that Lan Chang''an was usually unwilling to sell them. If they fell into the hands of an enemy, they could pose a threat to the protective formations of Little Turtle Peak.


    Recalling Lan Chang''an''s earlier words about "feeling a certain affinity," Shen Bixin subtly nced at the calm andposed man in white, finding nothing out of the ordinary.


    She smiled demurely, tactfully ignoring any possible hidden implications.


    Before long, theypleted a transaction worth over ten thousand spirit stones.


    "I still need to visit Herbalist Ye and Fairy Shi, so I won''t stay any longer," Shen Bixin said with an apologetic smile before quickly taking her leave.


    Lan Chang''an had intended to gather some information from her, but he had to give up on that n.


    Later that day, Shen Bixin visited both Little Pill Peak and Xiao Pan Peak.


    She didn''t stay long at Little Pill Peak, purchasing only a few medicinal pills and healing salves.


    Finally, she went to Xiao Pan Peak and stayed there for quite some time.


    By dusk, Lan Chang''an received a transmission talisman from Xiao Pan Peak. Fairy Shi Manrong had invited him over for a gathering.


    ...


    In the main hall of Xiao Pan Peak''s cave mansion, two men and two women, all Foundation Establishment cultivators, were gathered for a feast.


    Shen Bixin and Shi Manrong had grown considerably closer.


    The two women sat together, asionally whispering in private, their voices like melodious birds, making the atmosphere delightful.


    Lan Chang''an easily guessed that Fairy Shi and Shen Bixin''s merchant guild had reached some sort of cooperation.


    "This trip to Wuqi Mountain has been a pleasure. Thank you, Sister Shi, for hosting this banquet," Shen Bixin said with a charming smile, raising her ss to toast the three Peak Masters.


    She also expressed her gratitude to Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei for saving her life years ago.


    Unknowingly, Shen Bixin had drawn a little closer to the three Peak Masters of Wuqi Mountain.


    A woman of such beauty, status, and temperament could hardly be disliked, even if her motives were rted to business.


    During the feast, without any prompting from Lan Chang''an, the conversation naturally turned to the hot topic of Huanglong Immortal City.


    Shen Bixin had a merchant association behind her, and she also had business dealings with Huanglong Immortal City, so she was well-informed.


    "¡®Sanhu Immortal¡¯ has arrived at Huanglong Immortal City and issued a challenge to Huanglong Immortal?" Thetest news Shen Bixin brought caught Lan Chang''an''s attention.


    Lan Chang''an had a good understanding of the general situation in Huanglong Mountain, the only thing he didn''t quite understand was the strength of the Core Formation Immortals, especially Huanglong Immortal''s true strength.


    Sanhu Immortal was a well-known Core Formation loose cultivator in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, second only to Huanglong Immortal.


    "I''ve heard that when Huanglong Immortal was young, he had a grudge with Sanhu Immortal, supposedly over a woman. Two hundred years ago, Huanglong Immortal publicly defeated Sanhu Immortal, humiliating him," Ye Fei said, looking rxed as if enjoying the drama.


    To put it simply, Sanhu Immortal had been a mere stepping stone during Huanglong Immortal''s rise to fame.


    "It''s quite the coincidence that Sanhu Immortal would challenge him at this time," Lan Chang''an mused.


    The forces opposing Huanglong Mountain were likely more eager than Lan Chang''an to find out Huanglong Immortal''s strength.


    "Actually, after all these years, there isn''t much enmity left between Sanhu Immortal and Huanglong Immortal. He''s probably been hired by the Hengchuan Merchant Association and other factions to test the waters," Shen Bixin said with a faint smile, her thoughts aligning with Lan Chang''an''s.


    Such formal challenges were usually more about sparring than life-and-death duels.


    "Did Huanglong Immortal ept the challenge?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "He did, but the specific details of the battle will take a few days to reach us," Shen Bixin replied.


    It made sense for Huanglong Immortal to ept the challenge.


    Huanglong Mountain was currently in a weakened state.


    Even if Huanglong Immortal was no longer at his peak, he was still in the mid-stage of Core Formation.


    If he couldn''t even ept a challenge from an early-stage Core Formation opponent, it would make him appear too weak to outsiders and fail to bolster internal morale.


    Of course, not just anyone could challenge Huanglong Immortal. The challenger had to be a well-known figure with a certain status.


    Additionally, there had to be an appropriate reason, like an old grudge.


    ...


    The four of them continued discussing various pieces of news, the atmosphere growing increasingly congenial as they inevitably touched on personal matters.


    "Miss Shen, it''s a pity we didn''t see Fellow Daoist Jiang this time. When will you two tie the knot? I''ll be sure to send a gift," Ye Fei said, his face flushed after downing half a jar of spirit wine.


    Because of the saving grace back then, Ye Fei had be friends with Jiang Yechen and Shen Bixin, and had a good impression of the two.


    "Big Brother Jiang has been busytely," Shen Bixin replied, her expression dimming slightly as she forced a smile at the mention of Jiang Yechen.


    "Once the situation in Huanglong Immortal City stabilizes, I''ll have hime by to share a drink with you, Fellow Daoist Ye."


    Lan Chang''an had heard a bit about the rtionship between Shen Bixin and Jiang Yechen.


    Shen Bixin''s merchant family opposed their rtionship.


    First, they didn''t like Jiang Yechen, believing him to have a problematic temperament.


    Jiang Yechen had severed ties with the Jiang Family years ago, and there were rumors that he had killed his foster mother and crippled his biological father.


    Even when the Jiang Familyter cleared his name, it did little to repair their rtionship.


    Second, Shen Bixin had considerable talent and was adept at managing the merchant association''s business. Her family didn''t want her to marry outside or use her for marriage alliances.


    "Bixin ah," Shi Manrong chuckled, her vibrant beauty shining as she teasingly linked arms with Shen Bixin, "you''re such a lovely woman. You don''t have to hang yourself on just one tree. If he''s so busy, why not look for another outstanding fellow who isn''t?"


    As she spoke, her clear eyes swept over both Ye Fei and Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an remained calm and unperturbed.


    Ye Fei''s eyelid twitched, but he quickly smiled as if nothing had happened.


    "Sister Shi, you''re making fun of little sister again," Shen Bixin understood the implication, her serene face turning slightly red as she feigned anger.


    After the banquet ended, Shen Bixin spent the night at Xiao Pan Peak and left the next day.


    At the time, Lan Chang''an was in seclusion, nurturing his treasure talismans, so he didn''te out to see her off.


    However, Ye Fei, being more enthusiastic, personally escorted Shen Bixin to the outskirts of Wuqi Mountain.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    News arrived from Huanglong Immortal City.


    Sanhu Immortal had challenged Huanglong Immortal and was defeated with injuries.


    Zheng Centipede wrote a detailed letter about how it unfolded:


    The battle took ce near the ck Fog Mountain Range outside Huanglong Immortal City, and Zheng Centipede had observed it from a distance.


    "Huanglong Immortal defeated Sanhu Immortal in fifteen minutes. This victory has somewhat restored the reputation of Huanglong Immortal City, which had been plummeting."


    Lan Chang''an put away the letter and pondered for a moment.


    As he had been a Core Formation cultivator before, he understood the differences between minor realms well.


    The difference in mana quality between early-stage and mid-stage Core Formation was about double.


    To use a mortalparison, it was like an adult with a hundred pounds of punching force bullying a child with only fifty pounds of strength.


    In the case of cultivators, the gap in realms, spiritual sense, and the performance of divine abilities and magical treasures would only make the disparity inbat power even greater.


    Judging by the time it took and the process, Huanglong Immortal did not win through sheer dominance, suggesting his current strength was already weaker than that of a typical mid-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    Furthermore, the Huang Dragon Beast, whose strength had fallen to quasi-third-rank, did not participate in the battle.


    Considering the influence of the Huang Dragon Beast, Huanglong Immortal''sbat power was less than forty percent of its peak.


    In his prime, Huanglong Immortal, in conjunction with the mid-stage third-rank Huang Dragon Beast, could have contended with an averagete-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    His strength and status wereparable to what Lan Chang''an had in his past life.


    "Sanhu Immortal has already gauged the general strength of Huanglong Immortal. If the Mo Family and the Hengchuan Merchant Association decide to act, it will likely be within the next six months."


    Lan Chang''an was certain.


    Given Fu Xuemei''s current cultivation progress, if things dragged on any longer, she might sessfully form her Core. If that happened, Huanglong Immortal City would have safely passed the most perilous crisis it had faced in hundreds of years.


    For Lan Chang''an, this was likely the only window of opportunity in the next century.


    Once that window closed...


    Fu Xuemei, with her earth spiritual root, would form her Core, while he, practicing his life-nurturing technique, was only at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment.


    Even if he sessfully formed his Core decadester, the gap between them would be so great that he might never catch up, not even in hundreds of years.


    As an earth spiritual root genius, Fu Xuemei might even have the chance to advance to the Nascent Soul Realm if she encountered the right opportunities.


    In other words...


    If he missed this chance, Lan Chang''an would essentially have to give up any thoughts of revenge or rely on outliving the other party to death.


    Lan Chang''an was prepared for failure.


    For him, his Dao was the priority, and he couldn''t risk his safety head-on.


    At most, he''d search for favorable opportunities to subtly push the situation forward from the shadows amid the chaos, perhaps even seizing the chance to form a Core himself.


    Should there be no such opportunity, or if the risks proved too great, he would ept defeat. Better not to intervene at all; either way, he would suffer no loss.


    ...


    Three monthster.


    The situation in Huanglong Immortal City grew increasingly dire.


    The Mo Family and various forces led by the Hengchuan Merchant Association rallied arge number of cultivators hostile to Huanglong Mountain to gather at Huanglong Immortal City.


    Leading them were several Core Formation Immortals, including a mid-stage Core Formation Immortal.


    Half a month ago, Little Turtle Peak announced that they had sold out of talismans, and Peak Master Lan Chang''an had entered seclusion for cultivation.


    This move wasn''t surprising.


    Earlier, the three main peaks of Wuqi Mountain had their war supplies purchased inrge quantities by the Tengxing Merchant Association, leading to severe shortages and near-standstill operations.


    However, within the secret room of Little Turtle Peak, there was only an illusory figure created by an Illusory Truth Talisman.


    Combined with the concealing effects of the formations, even a Core Formation expert''s spiritual sense would be unable to discern the truth with a casual scan.


    ...


    A monthter.


    At Tian Zhi Pavilion in Liaoyuan Immortal City, a in-looking youth in thete stage of Foundation Establishment walked out, a glint of peculiar light in his eyes.

 Chapter 150: Return to Huanglong

    /membership


    Having previously purchased "Level B" intelligence on Huanglong Mountain at Tian Zhi Pavilion, this time, with that special jade slip, Lan Chang''an paid only one to two hundred spirit stones and obtained thetest intel.


    "Huanglong Mountain has been preparing for many years, and after considerable effort and favors, they have finally refined the ''Crystal Condensation Pill''. Tian Zhi Pavilion estimates that two pills were sessfully refined, with at least one being a genuine product."


    "Fu Xuemei has recently reached the ninth level of Foundation Establishment and possesses the basic conditions to attempt Core Formation."


    "Huanglong Immortal, after defeating Sanhu Immortal, is suspected of having held back some of his strength. For a detailed analysis, purchase the ''Level A'' intelligence on Huanglong Immortal."


    In a Liaoyuan Immortal City inn, Lan Chang''an''s face twitched slightly as he read this information.


    He was tempted to buy all the "Level A" intelligence on Huanglong Mountain and Huanglong Immortal, but doing so might attract too much attention from Tian Zhi Pavilion.


    In his eyes, Tian Zhi Pavilion was even more mysterious and unpredictable than the me Departing Pce.


    The upper limit of Huanglong Immortal''s strength was clear¡ªhe was weaker than a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, and at most, he could only temporarily boost his power. This was a consensus among all the major forces."Huanglong Mountain currently has three True-Dan Formation cultivators. Besides Huanglong Immortal, the other two are his close friend and an elder who has resided there for over a hundred years."


    Originally, Huanglong Mountain also had two Core Formation guest elders. But ording to Tian Zhi Pavilion''s intelligence, one of them, upon learning of the crisis facing Huanglong Mountain, withdrew half a year ago, possibly being poached by an enemy faction.


    Having grasped the overall strength at the top of Huanglong Mountain, Lan Chang''an only needed to ensure that he stayed clear of direct involvement and there would be no real danger.


    As for the Fake-Dan cultivators, he was confident in his ability to protect himself. This didn''t even take into ount the trump card that was his previous life''s soul imprint.


    ...


    Liaoyuan Immortal City, located in the central hearnd of Liang Kingdom.


    Lan Chang''an flew northward for half a month.


    A towering, crystal-yellow giant city gradually expanded in his field of view.


    It was at sunset, the dim yellow afterglow of the setting sun fell on the slightly weathered and cracked city walls, some of which bore the scars left by the beast tide.


    This ancient city, having weathered centuries of storms, stood tall like an old, wounded lion.


    Along the way, Lan Chang''an experienced the chaos surrounding Huanglong, where he scarcely encountered any lone Qi-Refining cultivators.


    The solitary figures he did meet were mostly in the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Along his route, he noticed several hidden cultivators of unknown origin, including rogue and evil cultivators.


    As he was disguised as ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, no one dared to target Lan Chang''an.


    In the distance, Huanglong Immortal City''s grand formation was operating normally, and even during wartime, the city hadn''t been sealed off to prevent entry or exit.


    This stemmed from two reasons.


    First, as a neutral trade hub, Huanglong Immortal City''s majority of assets were owned by various forces in the Liang Kingdom, including sects, many families, and individual cultivators.


    Huanglong Mountain was considered the ruler of this Immortal City, as well as thendlord.


    Only the core Huanglong Mountain itself was entirely owned by Huanglong Immortal''s lineage, with its mountain protection formation fully activated and heavily guarded.


    This city, with its massive poption, would face enormous repercussions if it were to be sealed off.


    Second, Huanglong Immortal City was vast. If multiple Core Formation cultivators from major forces attacked in unison, the defense pressure and resource consumption would be immense.


    Moreover, the city''s vast poption likely included numerous undercover agents from hostile forces.


    Defending only the third-rank spiritual vein of Huanglong Mountain was much easier.


    Many of the city''s businesses were owned by various forces, including the Liang Kingdom sects'' branches.


    Even if enemy forces infiltrated the city, they wouldn''t dare recklessly disrupt the operations inside; they would focus solely on targeting Huanglong Mountain.


    "The two sides seem to have a mutual understanding not to involve other forces or businesses in the city, only contending for the core interests of Huanglong Mountain. Even without the deterrence of sects, no one wants a ruined Immortal City," Lan Chang''an mused, having gleaned this from the intelligence.


    If a major battle were to break out, it would most likely ur at Huanglong Mountain, which no longer housed any foreign cultivators.


    ...


    The cultivation of thete Foundation Establishment was somewhat conspicuous in Huanglong Immortal City.


    In a hidden spot within the mountains, Lan Chang''an used the "Hundred Illusions Mask" to change his identity and adjust his cultivation level.


    When he arrived at Huanglong Immortal City, he had transformed into a in-looking, unremarkable old man in simple clothing.


    He lowered his cultivation to the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Appearing no different from any other day, he entered Huanglong Immortal City.


    The city was noticeably quieter than usual, with the number of people on the streets reduced by half, though most of the shops were still open.


    However, the city''s teahouses and taverns were bustling with activity, as these ces were ideal for gathering information, with some even secretly selling intelligence.


    "The Mo Family and Hengchuan Merchant Association, along with various other hostile forces, have currently gathered at the foot of Huanglong Mountain. They made a probing attack a few days ago, which was easily repelled by the mountain''s protective formation," Lan Chang''an quickly gathered thetest news from within the city.


    He surmised that the hostile forces were currently only testing the strength of the formation.


    The real offensive would likely ur when Fu Xuemei attempted to form her Core.


    Core Formation required the use of a third-rank spiritual vein to draw in massive amounts of heavenly and earthly spiritual energy.


    At such a time, Huanglong Mountain''s formation would be rtively weak¡ªproviding an opportunity for outside interference.


    As long as she failed, it would only take another twenty or thirty years for Huanglong Mountain to be left without sessors, crumbling on its own.


    That night, Lan Chang''an checked into an inn within the city, keeping a distance of nearly a hundred li from Huanglong Mountain.


    ...


    The next day, he visited Jinxiu District.


    He wandered around the Water Moon Residence area where he had once lived.


    Years ago, he had lived and cultivated here for twenty to thirty years, sessfully nning his Foundation Establishment.


    The que of Water Moon Residence remained unchanged, but the owner had changed; a lone female cultivator now lived there.


    Theyout of the courtyard''s pond remained the same, with some ornamental spirit fish swimming within.


    The neighboring Du Family residence was still owned by a family with the surname Du. The current owner looked somewhat familiar, likely a descendant of Alchemist Du Wei.


    "Old Du must have passed away many years ago," Lan Chang''an reminisced about the greedy and lecherous middle-aged man with the mustache.


    Through Du Wei, he had connected with Alchemist Hua.


    Du Wei had failed to advance to Foundation Establishment, and since he was older than Lan Chang''an, he had likely passed away twenty or thirty years ago.


    "Puppet Master Sang has also moved away," Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly as he saw the empty courtyard opposite Water Moon Residence.


    Back then, he had received a puppet inheritance from Puppet Master Sang, but it was limited to superior-grade second-rank, with no third-rank content. Whether Puppet Master Sang had a third-rank puppet inheritance remained unknown.


    If the man hadn''t advanced to Foundation Establishment, he would likely have passed away by now, given his age.


    "I was forty-five years old when I first entered Huanglong Immortal City. Now, I am one hundred and neen," Lan Chang''an reflected as he left Jinxiu District, feeling a deep sense of the changes over time.


    Seventy years ago, Huanglong Immortal City was still at its peak, bustling with activity. The contrast between those vibrant memories and the current destion was striking.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an, who was quietly cultivating in his inn, suddenly opened his eyes and looked in the direction of Huanglong Mountain.


    At that moment, he sensed the eruption of a Core Formation Immortal''s power.


    He even faintly heard the sound of explosions.


    "The battle is about to begin!"


    In the inn, some opportunists had expressions of barely concealed excitement.


    With Huanglong Mountain''s power being suppressed, the security in the city would be at its weakest.


    Once the battle broke out, there would be no shortage of those trying to fish in troubled waters.


    Petty thieves might cause chaos in the city, but they wouldn''t dare provoke forces with strong backgrounds orrge businesses.


    The true opportunists were even eyeing Huanglong Mountain itself.


    If the protective formation of Huanglong Mountain was breached, the opportunities within could be unimaginable, including the chance of a genuine Core Formation Pill.


    In fact, some of the enemies gathered by the Mo Family and Hengchuan Merchant Association had no real grudges against Huanglong Immortal''s lineage.


    They were simply here to take advantage when the Huanglong Mountain was weak and take a share of the pie.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Some bold Foundation Establishment cultivators approached within ten li of Huanglong Mountain, openly observing the battle.


    Lan Chang''an shook his head and did not follow.


    In fact, he knew that even if he got a little closer, the forces opposing Huanglong Mountain, including the Core Formation experts, would not harm the onlookers.


    The hostile forces weren''t aiming to destroy; their true intent was to redistribute the core interests of this Immortal City.


    ...


    At this moment, in front of Huanglong Mountain.


    The overwhelming aura of four Core Formation cultivators gathered, with four patches of dazzling core force shining in the sky.


    The highest cultivation among them was at the mid-stage Core Formation Realm, the grand elder of the Hengchuan Merchant Association.


    This Core Formation elder was known as "Wantie Immortal," his entire body covered in thick, dark armor, with only his cold eyes exposed.


    The Mo Family''s Core Formation cultivator was a straight-backed young man in a blue robe with eyes like stars.


    This Core Formation expert was named "Mo Weixing Immortal," the most outstanding genius of the Mo Family in centuries.


    Below the four Core Formation experts, nearly twenty Gray-Dan


    cultivators hovered in mid-air, taking turns attacking the protective formation of Huanglong Mountain.


    The difference between the aura of these Gray-Dan cultivators and that of the True-Dan Immortals was more than just a minor gap¡ªit was vastly greater than the difference between normal small realms.


    The current lineup of Core Formation experts was nearlyparable to the power of an entire sect.


    Whoosh!


    At this moment, a Fake-Dan cultivator''s aura came speeding from outside the city.


    The neer was a stout, middle-aged man in wide robes.


    If Lan Chang''an had been present, he would have immediately recognized this Fake-Dan cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Xiang, have you found anything?" Mo Weixing Immortal of the Mo Family asked with a smile.


    Xiang Jinglong was a Fake-Dan cultivator summoned by the Mo Family, iming to have been framed by Huanglong Mountain for the death of Alchemist Hua.


    "Immortals, I found a hidden tunnel outside Huanglong Immortal City that seems to lead to the depths of Huanglong Mountain..." Xiang Jinglong bowed to the four Core Formation experts in the sky, reporting his findings via sound transmission.


    Upon hearing this, the four Core Formation experts'' expressions changed slightly. They paused their attacks and exchanged a few words.


    "There''s no need to worry. We have inside agents within Huanglong Mountain. Their core members, including Fu Xuemei, are all on the mountain."


    "That hidden tunnel might be a retreat route for the core members of Huanglong Mountain."


    "Fellow Daoist Xiang, take some men and investigate that tunnel..."


    ...


    That night.


    Deep within Huanglong Mountain, in a secluded and elegant cave residence.


    A young man with a clear and handsome face, dressed in a thick cotton robe, sat restlessly, worry etched on his face.


    At that moment, a woman with soft purple hair, dressed in a moon-white robe, as graceful as an orchid in a secluded valley, stepped out of a secret chamber.


    "Sister, I''m finally seeing you again," Fu Dong said with a smile as he stood up.


    "Little Dong, you shouldn''t havee back," Fu Xuemei sighed softly.


    "Sister, a year ago, you sent me to a remote region for my own good, to preserve the Fu Family''s bloodline. Now, I have left offspring behind and have no more worries."


    "We siblings grew up together in the mortal world, relying on each other, supporting each other all the way to today. How could little brother let you face this danger alone? While you attempt Core Formation, I will guard you until thest moment."


    Fu Dong''s warm smile seemed capable of melting the winter snow, yet his gaze was exceptionally firm.


    "Alright, now you won''t have a chance to leave even if you wanted to," Fu Xuemei said with a helpless smile.


    When she saw her younger brother, who had always protected her since childhood, standing before the cave residence, she felt inexplicably calmer.


    Years ago, to help her brother achieve Foundation Establishment, she had done something that went against her principles.


    That incident had slightly shaken her Dao heart, leaving a minor w in her mental state. However, with her brother standing guard in front of her, her heart had once again achieved perfection.


    The two siblings talked for a long time., until a Core Formation Immortal sent a sound transmission, only then did they part reluctantly.


    "Sister, you will surely seed in breaking through and forming your Core, just as you have always ovee your obstacles."


    "Little Dong, don''t worry. With the help of a genuine Crystal Condensation Pill and Core Formation spiritual items to assist me, I have an eighty percent chance of forming a True-Dan. Now, with your support, I am ny percent confident," Confidence andposure showed on Fu Xuemei''s refined yet charming face as she spoke.


    After her brother left, the smile faded from her face, reced by a solemn expression as she entered the secret chamber once more.

 Chapter 151: A Subtle Push

    /membership


    Huanglong Inner City, within an inn.


    Lan Chang''an remained as still as an ancient tree, not stepping outside his door. By paying a small amount of spirit stones, he could receive daily updates on the situation at Huanglong Mountain.


    Half a month passed, and the situation at Huanglong Mountain remained in a deadlock.


    The forces led by the Hengchuan Merchant Association and the Mo Family had set up arge formation at the foot of Huanglong Mountain, indicating their intent to wage a prolonged battle.


    On this day, the sky above Huanglong Mountain was filled with swirling clouds as the spiritual energy of heaven and earth gathered in vast quantities.


    "Has the Core Formation attempt finally begun?"


    Nearly a hundred li away, Lan Chang''an instantly sensed the disturbance and opened his ink-ck eyes.


    At that moment, within a hundred li of Huanglong Mountain, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth was in a state of extreme agitation.Some Qi-Refining cultivators, even from a distance, felt an inexplicable sense of oppression.


    Lan Chang''an closed his eyes again, merging his mind with the second life of the Nine Seal Stele, without releasing his spiritual sense. Instead, he simply enhanced his sensory perception.


    He focused on increasing his sensitivity to the changes in the natural world.


    "Judging by the phenomenon, the one attempting Core Formationcks sufficient foundation. The process seems less than smooth."


    After a moment, Lan Chang''an came to a preliminary conclusion.


    A hint of doubt crossed his mind as he pondered.


    Fu Xuemei''s attempt at Core Formation gave him the impression that she was not fully prepared, and her efforts seemed somewhat rushed.


    "Fu Xuemei has only recently reached the ninth level of Foundation Establishment. Even for a genius with an earth spiritual root, it would take several years to reach the peak of the ninth level."


    "However, reaching the ninth level of Foundation Establishment is sufficient for attempting Core Formation. With her aptitude, as long as she is in the right state and has aplete Core Formation opportunity, it shouldn''t be too much of a problem."


    Of course, this assessment was based on her earth spiritual roots. If she had medium or high-grade spiritual roots, attempting Core Formation at this stage would be much riskier.


    "The pressure on Huanglong Mountain might have left her without enough time to cultivate and adjust her state."


    Analyzing the information and the current situation, Lan Chang''an found a reasonable exnation.


    ...


    In front of Huanglong Mountain.


    Due to Fu Xuemei''s attempt at Core Formation, she was drawing a massive amount of spiritual energy from heaven and earth, cing an even greater burden on the third-rank spiritual vein.


    Huanglong Mountain''s protective formation also relied on the third-rank spiritual vein to operate.


    Its power had diminished by about ten percent, though it hadn''t weakened as much as outsiders had expected.


    This situation had clearly been anticipated by Huanglong Mountain.


    The formation masters on the mountain had preemptively added spirit stones to each formation base, supplemented by the infusion of the cultivators'' mana, so the overall impact was minimal.


    However, the Core Formation attempt had just begun. During the criticalter stages, the demand for spiritual energy would peak.


    The most crucial factor was the powerful offensiveunched by the opposing Core Formation Immortals, continuously putting pressure on the formation and causing it to consume more resources.


    "Formation Master Wu, Formation Master Cao, how are the preparationsing along?"


    In the sky, the four Core Formation Immortals cast their gazes downward.


    "Rest assured, Immortals. The two sets of grand formations are fully set up. They can draw arge amount of spiritual energy from heaven and earth, not only slightly interfering with the Core Formation but also using the power of the formations to break the enemy''s formation."


    Under the leadership of two third-rank formation masters at the Fake-Dan level, a special formation had beenid out at Huanglong Mountain, specifically targeting its defenses.


    "Haha, the Huanglong Mountain''s formation, back then, old me had a hand inying it out. Combined with the other measures we''ve prepared, we''ll surely tear through their defenses." Formation Master Cao stroked his beard andughed.


    "All forces, break the formation with full power!"


    Wantie Immortal, his body encased in thick ck armor, gave the order.


    Boom!


    Four bursts of True-Dan Formation power erupted, with the Immortals either casting powerful spells or unleashing grand magical treasures.


    On the battlefield, there were even more Fake-Dan experts.


    On average, three Fake-Dan experts could cause as much damage to the formation as one True-Dan Formation Immortal.


    In conjunction with the two "formation-breaking" special formations, the previously impregnable defenses of Huanglong Mountain visibly trembled.


    The protective light of the formation quivered, dimmed rapidly, and asionally showed small cracks where it had been struck by the Immortals'' magical treasures.


    Within Huanglong Mountain, formation masters were working to maintain the defenses. More than ten experts led the effort, injecting their mana to repair and stabilize the formation.


    So far, Huanglong Immortal had not personally taken action.


    This stalemate continued for several days.


    The Fake-Dan experts, especially the Foundation Establishment cultivators on both sides, were greatly depleted and mentally exhausted.


    Above Huanglong Mountain, the phenomenon of Core Formation persisted, and the absorption of spiritual energy from heaven and earth became even more intense.


    "Activate the Restriction-Breaking Talismans!"


    In the sky, a blue-robed youthful Core Formation cultivator suddenly gave the order.


    It was none other than Mo Weixing Immortal of the Mo Family.


    Upon hismand, many of the attacking Foundation Establishment cultivators and Fake-Dan experts pulled out several second-rank Restriction-Breaking Talismans.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    One by one, the Restriction-Breaking Talismans streaked through the air, targeting the weakened sections of the formation.


    The Restriction-Breaking Talismans had several times the destructive power against formationspared to attack talismans of the same rank.


    Arge number of Restriction-Breaking Talismans were directed at the dim, fractured sections of Huanglong Mountain''s protective formation.


    Crack!


    Several areas of the protective formation split open, creating gaps over ten feet wide.


    "Haha! The effect is good."


    "We nearly bought out all the Restriction-Breaking Talismans in the area to break through this formation."


    In the sky, the four Core Formation Immortals exchanged triumphant smiles.


    While the Restriction-Breaking Talismans weren''t the primary force in breaking the formation, they yed a crucial role, acting as the final straw that broke the camel''s back.


    "Huanglong Immortal! If you don''t make a move now, when the formation ispletely broken, don''t me us for cleansing Huanglong Mountain and hurting the innocent." Wantie Immortal''s voice was cold and indifferent, his narrow, icy eyes visible beneath his heavy helmet.


    From their perspective, the only real threat in Huanglong Mountain was Huanglong Immortal himself.


    This number one loose cultivator of the Liang Kingdom had been a dominating presence for centuries. Even if he was now old and weak, the other Immortals did not dare to take him lightly.


    "If you have grievances, then settle them. Today, the old man will face all of you."


    A thick, aged voice resounded.


    Roar!


    Apanied by the sound of a dragon''s roar, a middle-aged man with graying temples and a ck-and-yellow robe stepped out of Huanglong Mountain, riding a quasi-third-rank dragon beast that resembled both a crocodile and a flood dragon, stretching over fifteen to sixteen zhang in length.


    Two other early-stage Core Formation Immortals followed closely behind him.


    At this moment, taking the initiative to engage was the best option.


    If the formation was to breakpletely, the number of Foundation Establishment and Fake-Dan experts at Huanglong Mountain would be at a significant disadvantagepared to the enemy forces.


    If they could hold off the enemy''s Core Formation Immortals, theck of a primary force to break the formation would allow the protective formation to endure a bit longer.


    This would give the Fake-Dan and Foundation Establishment cultivators at Huanglong Mountain more time to dy the enemy and assist Fu Xuemei in her Core Formation.


    High in the sky.


    Seven Core Formation Immortals, along with a quasi-third-rank dragon beast, shed in a battle that shook the heavens.


    Both sides were cautious, ensuring the fight didn''t spill over to the Foundation Establishment cultivators below or cause damage to the city''s buildings and assets.


    "That Huang Dragon Beast''s physical strength remains at the third-rank level, capable of holding off an early-stage Core Formation Immortal."


    Within Huanglong Immortal City, cultivators from various forces quietly observed the battle.


    The oue of this conflict would determine who would control Huanglong Mountain, but it wouldn''t have a significant impact on the fundamental interests of the other forces.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    A in-looking old man in simple robes and at the early stage of Foundation Establishment slowly approached within twenty li of Huanglong Mountain.


    "Huanglong Immortal''s mana is a few levels weaker than that of a typical mid-stage Core Formation cultivator. However, hisbat skills and experience are far superior. Despite being at a disadvantage, he has managed to hold his own against Wantie Immortal."


    The old man looked up, squinting his eyes as he observed the battle in the sky.


    After confirming that the topbat powers of Huanglong Mountain were fully engaged, he decided to move closer to see the excitement.


    At this distance, there was no need to worry about being caught in the crossfire. Lan Chang''an''s current position, near the me Departing Pce''s outpost, might even be safer than staying at Little Turtle Peak.


    He had little interest in the Core Formation battle in the sky.


    His approach within twenty li of Huanglong Mountain was mainly to get a clearer sense of Fu Xuemei''s progress in attempting Core Formation.


    "Strange, judging by the phenomenon, it seems shecks the momentum to form a True-Dan. It looks like it might fail..."


    Lan Chang''an nced at the sky above Huanglong Mountain, where a two-li-wide swirling cloud of spiritual energy hovered.


    He felt puzzled and wondered if something was amiss.


    Could it be that Fu Xuemei''s mental state was unstable, or that she hadn''t taken the Crystal Condensation Pill?


    At this rate, it seemed like there was no need for him to make a move.


    Noticing the abnormal situation, Lan Chang''an decided to wait and see.


    The Core Formation battle in the sky moved to higher altitudes, with only faint booms reaching his ears.


    Lan Chang''an moved within ten li of Huanglong Mountain.


    "We invite all interested Fellow Daoists to join our Anti-Huanglong Alliance. By assisting in breaking the formation, you will receive generous reward on a daily basis."


    "We are buying Restriction-Breaking Talismans, formation-breaking artifacts, and rare treasures at high prices..."


    The area around Huanglong Mountain was not as tense and oppressive as one might imagine.


    The forces attacking Huanglong Mountain were openly recruiting cultivators and purchasing materials for breaking the formation.


    In the distance, there was a Fake-Dan cultivator maintaining order here.


    "If I were to blend into the Anti-Huanglong Alliance and use a powerful Restriction-Breaking Treasure Talisman at the right moment, targeting a weak spot in the formation, I might be able to breach Huanglong Mountain''s defenses early."


    A bold n began to form in Lan Chang''an''s mind, one that he might have executed in his past life.


    The risk wasn''t too high, as the treasure talisman was simply more powerful than usual, indistinguishable from ordinary talismans.


    In the chaos of the battle, using it would likely be mistaken for a higher-rank talisman.


    The only downside was that it might attract the attention of someone sharp-eyed. However, with the Hundred Illusions Mask, even a Fake-Dan cultivator wouldn''t be able to recognize his true identity.


    After weighing his options, Lan Chang''an decided to abandon the idea.


    The primary reason was that the phenomenon surrounding Fu Xuemei''s Core Formation attempt seemed insufficient for forming a True-Dan.


    First, the necessity to strike had decreased.


    Second, it felt fishy.


    ...


    Two hourster.


    Lan Chang''an made a brief trip back to his inn, then returned to the scene.


    "Fellow Daoist, this old man has an ancestral Restriction-Breaking Talisman that might be close to the third rank..."


    Lan Chang''an took out a talisman box and began negotiating with an old man at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment who was buying talismans.


    "A quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman?"


    The old man seemed intrigued as he inspected the talisman within the box. It was slightlyrger than typical talismans, and its quality was beyond expectation.


    "Fellow Daoist, are you familiar with talismans?"


    "I have some knowledge," Lan Chang''an replied.


    The Restriction-Breaking Talisman he was selling was actually a treasure talisman without any nurturing, making it close to the third rank.


    Because it hadn''t been imbued with Evergreen mana, he didn''t need to worry about it being traced back to him.


    At most, ordinary talisman masters would only recognize the special refining technique, perhaps mistaking it for an obscure style or school.


    This particr treasure talisman was drawn on the spot after returning to the inn, using techniques from his previous life to make it seem old.


    In order to cope with unexpected situations, Lan Chang''an always kept a small supply of top-quality talisman materials in his hand.


    "This Restriction-Breaking Talisman of Fellow Daoist does indeed exhibit spiritual patterns that exceed ordinary second-rank talismans..."


    The old man called over an experienced talisman master to appraise it, and finally offered a price several times higher than a typical top-tier second-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t haggle over the price. It was already far beyond the cost of making the talisman anyway.


    "This old man''s ancestral talisman is now entrusted to your care," Lan Chang''an said, deliberately raising his voice after the transaction to prevent the other party from keeping it private.


    Not long after, the quasi-third-rank talisman was handed over to a nearby Fake-Dan cultivator.


    "A quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman? Excellent!"


    The Fake-Dan cultivator''s face lit up with joy.


    Due to the scarcity of materials, third-rank talismans were rare in the Liang Kingdom, and even more so were third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talismans.


    A quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman had a specific, destructive effect on formations, surpassing that of other ordinary third-rank talismans.


    If used at a critical moment, this talisman could potentially have a miraculous effect in breaching Huanglong Mountain''s formation, which was currently struggling without the direct support of any Core Formation experts.


    ...

 Chapter 152: Failed Core Formation?

    /membership


    "What is the origin of that cultivator who sold the quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman?"


    The Fake-Dan Immortal sitting in the main seat suddenly thought of something and asked his men.


    "Reporting to Immortal, after the old man sold the talisman, he disappeared without a trace. There¡¯s no record of him in the vicinity of Huanglong Immortal City."


    The Foundation Establishment cultivator who had acquired the talisman replied.


    "He must be a remarkable individual with a grudge against Huanglong Mountain."


    The Fake-Dan Immortal sighed but did not dwell on the matter.


    He personally went to the frontline and handed the quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman to the Formation Master surnamed Cao.


    "Excellent! This will increase our chances of breaking the formation by twenty percent."Formation Master Cao pped his hands andughed.


    ...


    Several li away, in a teahouse.


    A young man with an ordinary appearance, in the Foundation Establishment stage, sat by the window.


    "If this talisman can hasten the copse of the Huanglong Mountain Formation and disrupt Fu Xuemei¡¯s Core Formation, whether sessful or not, the matter from that year can be considered settled."


    Lan Chang''an mused to himself.


    A single missed piece of intelligence can lead to the butterfly effect, potentially causing the downfall of an entire empire.


    Much less a quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman aimed at the remnants of a grand formation that was not protected by any Core Formation Immortals.


    Such scheming ismonce in the cultivation world.


    These plots aren''t limited to small figures.


    Certain top-tier bigwigs, with just a casual move of a chess piece, could influence the local trends within the cultivation world.


    Two dayster.


    High above Huanglong Mountain, the Core Formation phenomenon entered itstter stages, and the extraction of spiritual energy from the heavens and earth became increasingly apparent.


    Weak points in the mountain-protecting formation began to multiply.


    The young Foundation Establishment cultivator disguised as Lan Chang''an stood at a distance, watching. He sensed that theplete destruction of the formation was imminent.


    There is a fundamental difference between minor damage to a formation and theplete copse of the formation. In the case of the former, it can be quickly repaired with the help of a Formation Master and sufficient spiritual energy supply.


    At the foot of Huanglong Mountain.


    The Formation Master Cao silently took out the quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman, targeting a critical weak spot in the mountain-protecting formation.


    He did not immediately strike, waiting for a certainmand.


    A quarter of an hourter.


    Amotion erupted within Huanglong Mountain, apanied by a confrontation at the Fake-Dan level.


    "He Yuanwu! You beast¡ª"


    Inside the mountain-protecting formation, an elegant elderly man in white robes, with surging core power, had blood trickling from the corner of his mouth, and his back was stained with blood.


    The injured white-robed elder was none other than the eldest disciple of Huanglong Mountain, Ji Yifeng.


    "Eldest Senior Brother, you reacted quickly."


    Not far away, a burly man in purple robes with a bald head stabilized his stance, grinning fiercely as he retracted a bloodstained hand.


    "Senior Brother He? You actually betrayed Huanglong Mountain!"


    The direct disciples of Huanglong Mountain looked on in disbelief at He Yuanwu, the fourth disciple of Huanglong Immortal.


    "Uncle He, how did the sect wrong you to make you betray Huanglong Mountain?"


    A female Foundation Establishment cultivator chastised.


    "Hmph! Back then, I was clearly younger, with talent in body cultivation, and greater strength and potential, yet Master was biased, giving the Core Formation opportunity to Senior Brother Ji, saying something about the eldest disciple being like the eldest son, with priority based on seniority."


    He Yuanwu snorted disdainfully.


    "When I attempted Core Formation, I only received half of the resources, and could only form a Gray-Dan. At that time, Master diverted crucial resources to help the Huang Dragon Beast advance to mid-third-rank."


    "And now, Master is going all out to help Junior Sister Xuemei with her Core Formation. If I had received even half of this support during my Core Formation, Huanglong Mountain wouldn¡¯t be in such a dire state."


    "Heh, I deserved this wretched fate, haha¡­"


    He Yuanwuughed maniacally, his figure blurred, flying towards Fu Xuemei¡¯s Core Formation cave.


    "Stop him!"


    Ji Yifeng staggered, coughing up blood.


    However, most of the high-level forces of Huanglong Mountain were fully engaged in protecting the formation and couldn¡¯t spare many hands.


    He Yuanwu wasn¡¯t just a Fake-Dan cultivator; his body cultivation was also formidable. Ordinary Fake-Dan cultivators would have a hard time dealing with him.


    "Immortal He, you can''t go in."


    A young man in padded clothes at the early Foundation Establishment stage took a deep breath, summoned his magic weapon, and stood fearlessly in front of the cave entrance.


    Ever since Fu Xuemei began her breakthrough, her younger brother Fu Dong had been guarding the cave, not moving an inch.


    "Get lost!"


    He Yuanwu roared impatiently, casually throwing a punch. The force shattered Fu Dong¡¯s defensive magic weapon.


    "You¡­ are not allowed to go in!"


    Fu Dong, lying on the ground coughing up blood, struggled to stand up again.


    ...


    "The time hase! Break the formation!"


    Outside Huanglong Mountain, Wantie Immortal transmitted the order from high above.


    Boom!


    The Fake-Dan Immortals and Foundation Establishment cultivators who received themandunched a fierce assault, causing the formation to tremble as its spiritual energy supply faltered.


    "Break!"


    The quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman in Formation Master Cao''s hand activated, transforming into a twisted beam of light that emitted a strange, destructive force, striking the mountain-protecting formation.


    Boom!


    A gap several zhang wide burst open, merging with nearby cracks, triggering a chain reaction that caused one entire side of the mountain-protecting formation to copse.


    "The formation has been breached!"


    Although only one side of the formation was destroyed, the morale of the Anti-Huanglong Alliance surged.


    This scene did not escape the notice of the two Core Formation Immortals battling high in the sky.


    "Fellow Daoist Huanglong, do we still need to continue this fight?"


    Wantie Immortal''s attacks slightly slowed, as he spoke with victory in sight.


    "Rebellious disciple! The reason I didn¡¯t prioritize you for the Core Formation opportunity back then was because of your excessive murderous intent, and your seniority and character were both inferior to Yifeng''s."


    Huanglong Immortal¡¯s face briefly changed, but he didn¡¯t lose hisposure.


    "Fellow Daoist Huanglong, why not end it here? You¡¯ve done all you could. Whether your disciple seeds in Core Formation now depends on her own destiny."


    Mo Weixing, a newly advanced Core Formation cultivator, had been entangled with the Huang Dragon Beast for a long time but couldn¡¯t ovee its formidable physique.


    After days of continuous battle, the Immortals present showed signs of fatigue, with some suffering injuries or depletion of their vital energy.


    The Core Formation cultivators from the Mo Family and Hengchuan Merchant Association didn¡¯t want to engage in a death struggle with Huanglong Immortal, whose lifespan was nearing its end.


    As long as they could prevent Fu Xuemei from forming her core and secure the core interests of Huanglong Immortal City, their goal would be achieved.


    "Heh, until thest moment, it¡¯s still uncertain who will emerge victorious."


    Huanglong Immortal¡¯s face showed a mocking smile. Hisughter was hoarse and resonant as if he didn¡¯t even nce at the Huanglong Mountain below him.


    Wantie Immortal and the other three showed surprise on their faces.


    At this moment, He Yuanwu was charging towards Fu Xuemei''s Core Formation cave.


    Huanglong Immortal appeared indifferent, with his throat subtly moving as if he had swallowed something.


    "Be careful!"


    Noticing this detail, Wantie Immortal''s eyes shed with a hint of cold suspicion.


    "You¡¯re all tired and want to stop? This old man¡¯s bones haven¡¯t yet exhausted their strength!"


    Huanglong Immortal''s face was full of a wide smile, as the True-Dan inside him suddenly erupted with a powerful surge of magical energy, nearly doubling in strength within a few breaths.


    Originally, his magical energy was inferior to the mid-Core Formation Realm. But at this moment, it instantly reached the peak of mid-Core Formation, approachingte-Core Formation.


    The early-stage Core Formation cultivators present felt a heavy pressure.


    Boom!


    Huanglong Immortal formed a hand seal, and the massive mountain seal resembling Huanglong Mountain expanded by a circle. Ancient patterns danced on its surface, and dull golden light suddenly burst forth, enveloping Wantie Immortal from above.


    "This old fool is pushing himself beyond his limits to return to his peak state. We can¡¯t engage him head-on!"


    Wantie Immortal, covered in pitch-ck armor, used his divine ability to transform into a three-zhang tall iron tower giant, and was smashed by the enormous mountain seal with a deafening ng, shaking his qi and blood, forcing him to retreat.


    If not for his magical treasure divine ability being good at defense, he might have already suffered injuries. Ordinary early-stage Core Formation cultivators would struggle to withstand this.


    After repelling Wantie Immortal, Huanglong Immortal did not pursue but instead transformed into a radiant golden beam, distancing himself.


    Realizing something was wrong, Wantie Immortal saw Huanglong Immortal heading towards Mo Weixing, the Mo Family¡¯s True-Dan cultivator who was entangled with the Huang Dragon Beast.


    "Fellow Daoist Mo, be careful!"


    Wantie Immortal shouted a warning.


    Seeing Huanglong Immortal''s surge in strength, Mo Weixing naturally paid attention and wasn¡¯t about to let himself be caught off guard.


    His reaction was quick, and he summoned light underfoot, preparing to retreat.


    Roar!


    The Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s massive body glowed with scales of earth-yellow crystal light. The half-sealed inner core within its body suddenly unleashed the full power of its third-rank earth-grade bloodline.


    That dragon roar, was a type of soul-shaking innate divine ability, causing the newly advanced early-stage Core Formation Mo Weixing to turn red in the face, his body freezing for a moment as if glued to the spot.


    Bang!


    The Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s strength and speed surged, and with a swipe of its tail, it sent the just-recovering Mo Weixing flying, shattering his protective magic shield.


    As Mo Weixing spat blood mid-air, feeling the immense pressure behind him, he realized he was flying directly towards Huanglong Immortal.


    "No! Senior Huanglong, please¡ª"


    Under Mo Weixing¡¯s despairing gaze, Huanglong Immortal reached out and condensed a giant yellow hand of radiant light, crushing him instantly.


    Boom!


    Blood sttered everywhere, and the loud explosion drowned out any screams.


    The fall of a Core Formation Immortal made the high-altitude battle go silent for a moment.


    "Among the Core Formation Immortals present today, only you, the Mo Family, have a true grudge against my Huanglong Mountain.


    His figure blurred, and he took advantage of the lingering effects of the secret medicine to charge towards another early-stage Core Formation cultivator aiding the Mo Family.


    "Huanglong Immortal, you¡¯ve gone too far!"


    Wantie Immortal roared in anger, shaking off the now uncontrolled Huanglong Mountain Seal, and swiftly intercepted Huanglong Immortal.


    The Huang Dragon Beast let out a fierce roar, moving to block Wantie Immortal.


    "Hidden so deeply! The Huang Dragon Beast hasn¡¯t dropped to quasi-third-rank, its cultivation remains at early third-rank. Instead, using a secret method it had only sealed its inner core, the actual strength still surpasses ordinary early-stage Core Formation."


    Wantie Immortal''s face turned grim, realizing he couldn¡¯t quickly deal with the Huang Dragon Beast.


    "No wonder the Level A intelligence report from the ''Tian Zhi Pavilion'' suggested that Huanglong Immortal may have visited ''Wangyue Immortal City'' back then. Who knows what price he paid¡­"


    Fortunately, Huanglong Immortal¡¯s foundational strength had indeed dropped, and he could only rely on a secret medicine to temporarily return to peak performance.


    ...


    The moment the Mo Family¡¯s True-Dan cultivator fell, miles away on Huanglong Mountain, Lan Chang''an sensed it.


    "As expected of the number one loose cultivator of the Liang Kingdom, even in old age with his True-Dan damaged, he can still kill a newly advanced Core Formation Immortal so easily."


    He had always kept a part of his attention on the Core Formation battle in the sky. Lan Chang''an spected that Huanglong Immortal''s explosive strength wouldn''tst long, and there would be consequences afterward.


    "The situation has changed. It¡¯s not wise to stay in Huanglong Immortal City for long." Lan Chang''an decided to retreat.


    In any case, he''d already nudged events along by secretly breaking Huanglong Mountain formation.


    The attacking Fake-Dan Immortals and Foundation Establishment cultivators outnumbered those of Huanglong Mountain.


    Not to mention, there was also He Yuanwu, the traitor, leading the charge towards Fu Xuemei¡¯s Core Formation retreat.


    There was no need for him to involve himself any further.


    He was neither the instigator nor a participant in this war.


    Whoosh! Boom!


    High above Huanglong Mountain, the clouds surrounding the Core Formation phenomenon suddenly dispersed.


    "Did the Core Formation fail?"


    Lan Chang''an, who had flown more than ten li away, couldn¡¯t help but nce back at Huanglong Mountain, feeling that things had gone too smoothly.


    At this point, he had only two guesses.


    First, Fu Xuemei truly failed in her Core Formation.


    Second, the cultivator attempting Core Formation on Huanglong Mountain wasn¡¯t Fu Xuemei herself.


    ...


    Within Fu Xuemei''s cave on Huanglong Mountain.


    Boom!


    He Yuanwu, carrying the pale-faced Fu Dong, forcefully broke through the secret chamber''s restriction and barged in.


    "Senior Brother He, I didn¡¯t expect you to be the first one in here."


    Inside the secret chamber, a simple-looking middle-aged man with a square cap sat cross-legged. Blood dripped from the corner of his mouth, and his face was pale due to the bacsh from the failed Core Formation.


    "Junior Brother Cheng? Weren¡¯t you expelled from the mountain years ago?"


    He Yuanwu was shocked.


    "Where did Junior Sister go?" He then demanded.


    "What, Senior Brother He, do you intend to pursue and kill Junior Sister? I recall you guys were on good terms and didn''t have any grudges."


    With a sneer on his face, Junior Brother Cheng took a healing pill.


    He Yuanwu pondered for a few moments and didn¡¯t make a move.


    Before being expelled, Junior Brother Cheng had been as close as a brother to him. There was no point in killing him, as he was just a Foundation Establishment cultivator pretending to attempt Core Formation.


    "Junior Sister should still be on Huanglong Mountain, right?"


    He Yuanwu''s eyes gleamed as a smile yed on his lips, looking at Junior Brother Cheng, who was cross-legged to heal his wounds.

 Chapter 153: Cease the Fighting and Withdraw

    Chapter 153: Cease the Fighting and Withdraw


    /membership


    "Junior Sister should still be on Huanglong Mountain, right?" He Yuanwu asked, testing the waters, but Junior Brother Cheng remained silent.


    He Yuanwu loosened his grip slightly and nced at the suspended Fu Dong.


    This was an important bargaining chip.


    "Cough... Haha! My sister has long since left Huanglong Mountain. If her own brother wasn''t here to keep up appearances, how could we deceive the internal spies and the eyes from all sides?" Fu Dong gasped for breath, a proud and smug smile appearing on his face.


    "My sister aspires to achieve ''Golden Dan''. Her ambition is to ascend to the level of a Nascent Soul True Monarch. How could she rush to form her core?"


    He Yuanwu''s mind flinched for a moment before he shook his head. "I don''t believe you! You were clearly surprised when I first arrived."


    "More than half a month ago, I confirmed Junior Sister''s aura and saw with my own eyes as she entered her cave for secluded cultivation. With external forces surrounding Huanglong Mountain and formations enveloping it, under the watchful eyes of the Immortals, she couldn''t have easily escaped," He Yuanwu said, while his spiritual sense meticulously probed every corner of the secret chamber.


    Soon, he made a discovery.Beneath where Junior Brother Cheng sat cross-legged, there seemed to be a hidden passage, one that could block out spiritual sense and prevent further probing.


    Noticing He Yuanwu''s gaze, Junior Brother Cheng tactfully moved aside.


    "Did Junior Sister escape through this tunnel?"


    He Yuanwu''s eyes flickered, but he didn''t approach the hidden passage, wary of potential traps.


    "Senior Brother He, we are fellow disciples. Why push us to the brink? Let Fu Dong go, and there might still be a chance for reconciliation," Junior Brother Cheng advised.


    He Yuanwu responded, "I''ll leave Junior Sister a way out. As long as she hands over the ''Crystal Condensation Pill'', preventing her from achieving a True-Dan, my goal will be aplished."


    "The Crystal Condensation Pill is already beyond your reach. Junior Sister has taken it with her," Junior Brother Cheng said, knowing that He Yuanwu had an illegitimate child with a lover outside who showed great potential and had hopes of forming a core in the future.


    He Yuanwu''s betrayal stemmed partly from his own discontent and partly from selfish motives.


    "Where is the other Crystal Condensation Pill?" He Yuanwu asked.


    "To make the phenomenon of Core Formation more believable, Master gave me an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill to consume. Unfortunately, due to my dull aptitude and old age, I couldn''t even form an Inferior Dan with it," Junior Brother Cheng replied bitterly.


    He Yuanwu believed most of what Junior Brother Cheng said, but there was still a trace of doubt. He ordered, "Open your storage pouch."


    Regaining some color on his face, Junior Brother Cheng removed his storage pouch and unlocked the restriction.


    At that moment, sounds of fighting erupted outside.


    Eldest Brother Ji Yifeng, along with two Foundation Establishment disciples, was rushing towards them, but they were being held back by a Fake-Dan Immortal from an opposing faction.


    "Hurry up!" He Yuanwumanded impatiently, channeling his Core Power to snatch the storage pouch from Junior Brother Cheng.


    A quick inspection revealed no sign of the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    He put the storage pouch away and did not return it to Junior Brother Cheng.


    "Fu Xuemei! If you don''t show yourself, I will dismember your brother right here!" He Yuanwu''s voice echoed through the entire cave, prating underground.


    He knew that Fu Xuemei had a deep bond with her brother, so maybe she hadn''t withdrawn yet and woulde back to save her brother.


    Crack!


    He Yuanwu exerted force, crushing Fu Dong''s arm.


    There was no reaction from the surroundings.


    Fu Dong grunted, nearly fainting from the pain, but he stubbornly refused to cry out.


    "Senior Brother He, there''s no need for such tricks. Junior Sister is likely already forming her core outside," Junior Brother Cheng said with a tinge of reluctance.


    "Forming a core requires a third-rank spiritual vein. Even if she has already escaped, it wouldn''t be that fast," He Yuanwu knew this much.


    The best time for Fu Xuemei to escape was during the moment of core formation when the phenomenon of the heavens and earth were disyed and the Core Formation cultivators were locked in battle.


    As the core variable of Huanglong Mountain, she was under constant surveince, including by the internal spies of Huanglong Mountain.


    "Junior Brother Cheng, open the secret passage," He Yuanwu ordered again.


    Since the passage was shrouded in a force that blocked spiritual sense, he needed someone to scout it first.


    "Yes," Junior Brother Cheng turned and crouched down, moving the floorboards beneath him.


    "Don''t try anything funny," He Yuanwu warned.


    "If you were at your peak, you might havested a few moves from me. But in your current state..." He Yuanwu''s words trailed off.


    Roar!


    From above the cave, a heart-shaking dragon roar echoed.


    "Huang Dragon Beast! Block it quickly¡ª" The Fake-Dan Immortal of the opposing force shouted in anger.


    Boom!


    A sixteen-zhang long, scarred yellow-scaled dragon beast charged towards Fu Xuemei''s cave, pping a Fake-Dan Immortal and his magical treasure away with one swipe.


    Then, it wed through the cave and lunged directly at He Yuanwu.


    "Not good! I''m being targeted by the Huang Dragon Beast! How does it still have time to assist...?" He Yuanwu felt a chill run down his spine, sensing imminent danger.


    The difference between a Fake Dan and a True Dan was vast, and the Huang Dragon Beast at this moment was stronger than an average early-stage Core Formation Immortal.


    He Yuanwu, holding Fu Dong, dodged frantically.


    He deliberately raised Fu Dong above his head, hoping the Huang Dragon Beast would hesitate.


    However, the Huang Dragon Beast didn''t care about Fu Dong''s life or death. Its massive ws locked onto them both without distinction.


    He Yuanwu cursed inwardly, knowing that his master had no fondness for Fu Dong and might even wish for his death in the ensuing chaos.


    As he clumsily dodged, a powerful spiritual pressure emanated from behind him, carrying a sense of threat.


    Junior Brother Cheng, crouching on the ground, had somehow produced a silver-colored talismanic treasure from somewhere.


    Whoosh!


    A purple lightning spear leaped from the surface of the talisman, its energy so terrifying that even a Foundation Establishment cultivator would be petrified. The spear shot straight at He Yuanwu''s back.


    With the Huang Dragon Beast pressing from the front, He Yuanwu had little room to maneuver.


    Between two evils, he chose the lesser.


    He barely managed to channel some of his Core Power to move his shoulder, taking the "Purple Lightning Spear" with his flesh.


    Electric arcs crackled, hissing.


    Half of He Yuanwu''s shoulder went numb, emitting ck smoke.


    Thud!


    While He Yuanwu was momentarily distracted, Fu Dong seized the opportunity to break free, rolling onto the ground.


    Boom!


    The Huang Dragon Beast''s massive w struck,nding directly in front of He Yuanwu.


    He Yuanwu unleashed his Core Power, summoning a magical treasure to take the attack head-on, and his body was sent flying, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.


    Fortunately, three more Fake-Dan Immortals arrived quickly. Theirbined magical treasures struck the Huang Dragon Beast, temporarily holding it at bay.


    "The Huang Dragon Beast is wounded. Let''s join forces and subdue it," one of the Fake-Dan Immortals shouted.


    He Yuanwu wiped away the blood, secretly relieved.


    Although the gap between Fake-Dan and True-Dan was significant, with three or more people working together, they could resist an early-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    "Go!" Junior Brother Cheng grabbed Fu Dong and dived into the secret passage beneath the floor.


    "Don''t think you can escape!"


    He Yuanwu wouldn''t let such an important bargaining chip slip away. If he wanted to kill Fu Dong, he could have just thrown him into the Huang Dragon Beast''s ws earlier.


    He Yuanwu vaguely guessed that Junior Brother Cheng''s purpose was to take Fu Dong away.


    Fu Dong''s life in Huanglong Mountain was uncertain. Fu Xuemei, forming her core elsewhere, would still be burdened by concerns for him, making it difficult for her to achieve a wless state of mind.


    If Fu Dong were to die, it might be easier for her to let go of this lingering attachment, allowing her to focus on her cultivation without distraction.


    However, the best-case scenario was for Fu Dong to return safely to Fu Xuemei as that would allow her to achieve aplete state of mind, and she might even have a small chance of forming a Golden Dan.


    The path of cultivation is vast, not solely confined to rational self-interest.


    Some cultivators, who are deeply emotional may be able to use their emotional attachment to sublimate their mind and beliefs and reach greater heights.


    Of course, such cases are rare.


    More often than not, emotional entanglements lead to a lower bottom line.


    "He Yuanwu! The one who betrayed the Huanglong Mountain, how can you be so easily allowed to leave!" A refined, white-robed elder flew towards him.


    Whoosh!


    A fan-shaped magical treasure swept out a massive astral wind of icy feathers, shredding the nearby ruins and blocking He Yuanwu''s path.


    With the Huang Dragon Beast holding back the several enemy Fake-Dan cultivators, Ji Yifeng, the eldest disciple of Huanglong, finally had a moment to intervene.


    "Eldest Senior Brother, the wise know when to bend with the wind. In your advanced years and with such grave injuries, why court unnecessary trouble..." He Yuanwu''s face darkened with impatience.


    He manipted a massive ck axe, a magical treasure, conjuring a vast storm of dark des that engulfed the astral wind of the feather fan magical treasure, reversing course towards Ji Yifeng.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an flew back to the inner city center, briefly pausing near the Jin Yun Valley station.


    In the vicinity of the sect''s residence, safety was guaranteed.


    At this moment, chaos reigned in Huanglong Immortal City, with numerous cultivators engaged in fighting and ughter. Among them were direct disciples of Huanglong Mountain, fleeing amidst the chaos, pursued by killers. Some of the pursuers were even Fake-Dan cultivators.


    If he were to fly quickly now, it might arouse suspicion, and being targeted by an Immortal would spell trouble.


    Lan Chang''an observed the Core Formation battles high in the sky.


    After ying the Mo Family''s True-Dan cultivator, the Huanglong Immortal severely wounded another early-stage Core Formation Immortal.


    Three Core Formation cultivators, including Wantie Immortal, chose to defend rather than engage the Huanglong Immortal head-on, fighting while retreating.


    During this time, the Huanglong Immortal sent the Huang Dragon Beast to support Huanglong Mountain and eliminate the traitors.


    The Huanglong Immortal''s aura gradually weakened, with neither side gaining an advantage in the three-on-three battle.


    "Hmm, another Core Formation Immortal has arrived?"


    Lan Chang''an suddenly sensed something.


    A purple streak of light, like a meteor, emanated a powerful True-Dan aura, heading straight for the six battling Core Formation cultivators.


    "Esteemed Immortals, for the sake of our ''me Departing Pce,'' please cease hostilities for now. Whatever grudges or conflicts of interest you have, let''s discuss them civilly."


    The neer was an Immortal in purple Daoist robes, at the mid Core Formation Realm. The Core Power he exuded rivaled that of the Huanglong Immortal at his peak.


    Hearing this, both sides tacitly agreed to stop fighting.


    The current stalemate meant continuing the battle was pointless. The Huanglong Immortal was weakened, his power having dropped significantly from earlier, with an injured Huang Dragon Beast being restrained by several Fake-Dan cultivators.


    Wantie Immortal was unscathed, but his side had a severely wounded Immortal, leaving them at a disadvantage.


    With the me Departing Pce Immortal''s intervention, the Core Formation cultivators of both parties ceased fighting, bringing the chaotic situation in the city under control.


    Seeing this, Lan Chang''an unhurriedly flew towards the outskirts of Huanglong Immortal City.


    High in the sky, the Core Formation Immortals from both sides seemed to be negotiating something.


    The outside world remained unaware of the content of their discussion. The powerful auras of the Core Formation cultivators on both sides had subsided, returning to a calm state, clearly having reached some agreement.


    "Now that Fu Xuemei has escaped Huanglong Immortal City, we Core Formation Immortals present will no longer personally intervene in this matter. Out of respect for Fellow Daoist Fei of me Departing Pce, this Immortal has no objections to this point," Wantie Immortal transmitted.


    "However, Fellow Daoist Huanglong is advanced in years with little lifespan remaining, insufficient to stabilize the vast Huanglong Immortal City. If within a year, the Huanglong Mountain faction fails to produce a True-Dan cultivator, then the ownership of Huanglong Mountain..."


    ...


    Lan Chang''an had just flown to the outer city of Huanglong.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Several Fake-Dan cultivators, along with many more mid andte Foundation Establishment cultivators, flew overhead. Most were heading towards the southern part of the Liang Kingdom.


    "The Core Formation Immortals have ceased fighting?"


    "Fake-Dan and Foundation Establishment cultivators are being mobilized, and the direction of their pursuit seems to be the central part of the Liang Kingdom, the direction of Liaoyuan Immortal City."


    Lan Chang''an pondered, deep in thought.


    Even if Fu Xuemei didn''t form her Core at Huanglong Mountain, she would still need a third-rank spiritual vein, as without sufficient spiritual pressure, it would affect the chances of forming the core and the quality of it.


    With the Huanglong Immortal City being the main attention, the closest, safest, and most suitable neutral force for attempting Core Formation would be Liaoyuan Immortal City.

 Chapter 154: A Chance Encounter

    Chapter 154: A Chance Encounter


    /membership


    "Forget it."


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment and decided not to join in on the fun.


    With so many powerful cultivators involved, as long as the general direction was correct, whether he went or not was irrelevant.


    He had a hunch that although the Huanglong Mountain was weaker in terms of strength, they had the upper hand in strategy. The route Fu Xuemei took to escape or the location where she nned to form her core might not follow convention either.


    Wuqi Mountain was located southwest of Huanglong Immortal City.


    The area surrounding Huanglong Immortal City was chaotic, with many prying eyes, so Lan Chang''an did not return directly.


    Using the "Hundred Illusions Mask," he took on the identity of an unremarkable Foundation Establishment cultivator and detoured slightly to the northwest.


    Heading south towards Liaoyuan Immortal City, a ce filled with trouble, was definitely not an option.Going east would be the opposite direction, closer to the Mo Family''s territory.


    Flying slowly for nearly a thousand li, Lan Chang''an sensed the fluctuation of a battle again.


    "Even this far out, there''s still killing and robbing treasures."


    Lan Chang''an sighed, no longer surprised by the chaos he had encountered along the way.


    He had adjusted his cultivation level to thete stage of Foundation Establishment, which saved him some unnecessary trouble.


    "Quick, notify the Immortal! We''ve found the remaining members of the Huanglong direct lineage!"


    Two li away, three Foundation Establishment cultivators were chasing down two injured cultivators.


    The leader, ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, looked excited as he crushed a Signalling Talisman.


    "Huanglong Mountain''s direct lineage?" Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred.


    After the grand formation of Huanglong Mountain was broken, the situation was chaotic, and few of the direct lineage of Huanglong Mountain could escape.


    Key figures were closely monitored, and even if some managed to escape, they were likely minor characters.


    Later, when the Immortal of me Departing Pce intervened, the mid-level cultivators on both sides also ceased fighting.


    Those "lucky ones" who had painstakingly escaped from Huanglong Immortal City now faced life-and-death pursuit, only to end up on a dead-end path.


    "Fellow Daoist! I am a direct disciple of Huanglong Immortal. Can you lend a hand?"


    Among the pursued, a middle-aged man wearing a square cap sensed the presence of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator nearby and quickly called for help.


    The man had a pale face and appeared gravely injured, but his cultivation was at the peak of thete-stage Foundation Establishment.


    Despite his poor condition, if not for carrying an injured early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, he could have escaped on his own.


    The early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator was a young man in padded clothes, with a broken arm and severe injuries.


    Lan Chang''an nced at them indifferently and continued on his way, showing no intention of helping.


    "Smart move."


    The leader of the three pursuers, the middle-aged man in a blue robe at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, withdrew his wary gaze.


    "Boss Gong, that kid seems to be Fu Xuemei''s younger brother, Fu Dong!"


    One of the mid-stage Foundation Establishment subordinates eximed.


    "Fu Dong? He''s a key figure! The Immortal instructed us to capture him alive at all costs."


    The blue-robed middle-aged man was overjoyed, and the attack of his supreme-grade magical weapon eased slightly.


    "Fu Dong?"


    Lan Chang''an flew some distance away, remaining expressionless.


    Suddenly, his heart tightened as he sensed a powerful spiritual pressure descending upon the battle area behind him.


    Shua!


    A figure d in in white emerged from the nearby mountains, fingers flicking through the air and summoning several intangible sword shadows that shed through the sky and swept past three Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Puff! Puff!


    Two of the mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators had gaping wounds in their chests, each bleeding profusely.


    "An Immortal at the Fake-Dan stage is attacking!"


    The blue-robedte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator reacted quickly, cing his supreme-grade defensive magical weapon in front of him, only to have it torn apart by the invisible sword shadow.


    The residual aura of the sword shadow cut through his magic robe, leaving behind streaks of blood.


    The figure in white was a beautiful woman in her thirties or forties, dressed in a white silk robe. The crow''s feet at the corners of her eyes couldn''t hide her once breathtaking beauty.


    "Aunt Ling!"


    Junior Brother Cheng cried out in surprise.


    "Bai Ling Immortal! She''s the former Daopanion of Huanglong Immortal from a century ago!"


    The blue-robedte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator recognized the woman in the white robe and immediately retreated.


    Bai Ling Immortal''s eyes turned cold as a semi-transparent sword-shaped magical treasure appeared in her palm.


    Just as she was about to strike,


    A powerful spiritual pressure surged from behind the blue-robed middle-aged man, apanied by the sound of something cutting through the air.


    "Bold Huanglong Mountain remnant!"


    The neer was a robust middle-aged Immortal with tanned skin, d in a wide robe.


    "It''s him?"


    Lan Chang''an, hiding three li away in a mountain depression, looked toward the pursuing Immortal.


    The neer was none other than the Fake-Dan Immortal, Xiang Jinglong, who had once rewarded him with some spirit stones.


    "I''ll hold him off. You two go escape."


    Bai Ling Immortal frowned slightly, sending a voice transmission to the Junoir Brother Cheng and Fu Dong.


    "Aunt Ling, be careful."


    The Junior Brother Cheng and Fu Dong flew towards the more remote ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Behind them, Bai Ling Immortal and Xiang Jinglong shed with thunderous force, leaving the surrounding hills pitted and scarred.


    Bai Ling Immortal''s semi-transparent sword-shaped magical treasure shifted between reality and illusion, weaving through the air with agility.


    Xiang Jinglong wielded a massive axe-shaped magical treasure, relying on brute strength and body refinement attainments to press his advantage.


    "Haha! While everyone else is heading south to intercept, I decided to go against the grain¡ªand what a catch I''ve reeled in." Xiang Jinglongughed heartily.


    Earlier, he had discovered a hidden tunnel outside Huanglong Immortal City. After investigating, he found that it was severed in the inner city, seemingly a misdirection. Xiang Jinglong refused to give up and continued investigating until he concluded that the tunnel was merely a secondary branch.


    Heter found another simr tunnel, but again, it led nowhere.


    Xiang Jinglong, however, persisted, meticulously studying the geography of Huanglong Immortal City, including its undergroundyout, eventually pinpointing the true secret exit.


    Undoubtedly, this was a counterintuitive move.


    But Xiang Jinglong chose not to follow the crowd, trusting his own instincts, and led his men to search the surrounding area.


    "You go after those two. Keep an eye on Fu Dong if you''re not confident of capturing him!"


    Xiang Jinglong transmitted to the blue-robedte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Rest assured, Immortal Xiang. Fu Dong is severely injured and will find it hard to escape." The blue-robed middle-aged man was full of confidence before stepping onto a beam of light and quickly going after Junior Brother Cheng and Fu Dong.


    Not long after the blue-robed man left, another light approached from the direction of Huanglong Immortal City, exuding a thick Gray Dan aura.


    It was a bald man in a purple robe, bearing multiple injuries and a slightly disordered spiritual aura.


    "Fellow Daoist He, you arrived just in time." Xiang Jinglong was overjoyed.


    After the battle at Huanglong Mountain, the tunnel in Fu Xuemei''s cave had copsed during the fighting, further damaged by the Junior Brother Cheng halfway through.


    He Yuanwu had spent a long time investigating before finding the northwest direction of Huanglong Immortal City and rushed over upon seeing the signal.


    "Ling... Aunt Ling?"


    He Yuanwu was momentarily stunned when he saw the beautiful woman in white, his expression slightly awkward.


    ...


    Junior Brother Cheng and Fu Dong were both injured, especially Fu Dong, whose lower cultivation dragged them down.


    Soon, the blue-robed middle-aged man caught up to them.


    Wary of a counterattack from thete-stage Foundation Establishment disciple or a hidden trump card, he didn''t press too hard, preferring to wear them down from behind.


    Exhausted, Junior Brother Cheng and Fu Dong could only retreat while fighting.


    "Fu Dong."


    As night fell, Junior Brother Cheng in the square cap spoke in a hoarse voice.


    "You''re too slow. If we run together, we won''t be able to shake off our pursuer. Once we enter the ck Fog Mountain Range, where visibility is low, I''ll hold him off while you escape."


    "Brother Cheng, let me..." Fu Dong hesitated.


    "I still have methods to preserve my life. Alone, I might even kill him. With you beside me, it would hamper my ability tobat him." Junior Brother Cheng said with a stern face.


    Fu Dong lowered his head in shame.


    "By the way, take this and give it to your sister if you get the chance."


    Brother Cheng reached under his armpit, rubbing vigorously, and pulled out an ultra-thin skin pouch.


    It was a special kind of micro-storage pouch with a space barelyrger than a scoop of water.


    Fu Dong took the skin-like pouch, and Junior Brother Cheng pushed him toward the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Whoosh!


    Brother Cheng turned and charged toward the blue-robed middle-aged man.


    Hearing the battle behind him, Fu Dong wiped his tears and continued into the mist-covered mountains.


    ...


    Author:


    Midway through writing tonight, there were two brief power outages, which slowed my progress and made it even harder to write. I could only wring out these few words...

 Chapter 155: Feelings for My Sister

    Chapter 155: Feelings for My Sister


    /membership


    In front of the ck Fog Mountain Range, a fierce battle had just concluded.


    "Talismanic treasure! You hid it so deep that you didn''t¡­until thest moment..."


    The blue-robedte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator''s body was charred, and his abdomen had been pierced by a spear of purple lightning.


    With a thud, he copsed and died.


    Opposite him, Junior Brother Cheng, who wore a square cap,y on the ground, his face as pale as paper and his aura extremely faint.


    The final strike of his talismanic treasure had been used against this opponent, who was nearly at full strength and extremely vignt.


    Junior Brother Cheng reached out his hand with difficulty, but the storage pouch on his body was long gone, and the hidden skin pouch had already been given to Fu Dong.


    There was no longer a single healing pill left on him.He tried to crawl towards the blue-robed cultivator to take his storage pouch, but he couldn''t muster any strength.


    The injuries within his body were fatal, and his life was irreversibly slipping away. Ordinary healing pills could do nothing to save him.


    A bitter smile appeared at the corner of Junior Brother Cheng''s mouth. He gave up struggling andy quietly on the ground.


    As he hovered between life and death, he heard the faint sound of footsteps.


    A in-looking Foundation Establishment cultivator entered his blurred field of vision.


    The person first approached the corpse of the blue-robed cultivator and took his storage pouch.


    Then,ing to Junior Brother Cheng''s side, the stranger spoke:


    "I am just a scavenger passing by. Do you have anyst words?"


    The Foundation Establishment cultivator''s voice was as in and unremarkable as his appearance.


    "A scavenger?"


    Junior Brother Cheng retained a final moment of rity and understood the meaning behind those words.


    Around some of the morewless immortal cities, there existed cultivators who specialized in scavenging the belongings of the dead.


    Murderers on the run often left behind some items, overlooked in their haste.


    This scavenger, who hadn''t immediately struck him down and instead asked for hisst words, showed a modicum of conscience.


    "I am Cheng Kangping, the eighth disciple of the Huanglong lineage. The remnants of my magical weapons and the robes on my body should still be worth something. I hope Your Excellency will bury me, and if possible, report to Huanglong Mountain."


    Junior Brother Cheng didn''t expect the stranger to save him. Given his injuries, even with very potent medicine or timely intervention by a skilled pharmacist, it would still be futile.


    "Is that all?"


    "Junior Sister Fu... Core Formation..."


    With those final words, Junior Brother Cheng closed his eyes and his breathing ceased.


    A hint of surprise shed in the eyes of the in-looking Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    To think that the final thought in the mind of this direct disciple of Huanglong before passing away was his little junior sister.


    Whoosh!


    The Foundation Establishment cultivator channeled his mana and collected Junior Brother Cheng''s corpse, along with his belongings, into arge sack.


    After onest nce at the blue-robed cultivator''s body to ensure nothing was overlooked, he flew towards the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Half an hourter.


    A powerful Fake-Dan Immortal''s spiritual pressure swept through the sky.


    The neer was a robust middle-aged man in a wide robe, Xiang Jinglong.


    "Useless thing!"


    Xiang Jinglong nced at the blue-robed cultivator''s corpse. After scanning it with his spiritual sense and finding nothing of value, he spat in disdain.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    In the darkness of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Grrr¡­ dozens of demon wolves had surrounded a severely wounded young man in padded clothes, his face pale.


    The leader of the demon wolves, an early-stage second-rank creature, eyed the young man with cunning, asionally testing his injured arm with probing attacks.


    "Brother Cheng, I''m useless! I''m just a waste! If I had known it woulde to this, I might as well have died on Huanglong Mountain..."


    Trapped and desperate, Fu Dong''s heart was filled with sorrow.


    Since escaping from Huanglong Mountain, he had been injured, and the chase had only worsened his condition, draining his vitality.


    Alone in the ck Fog Mountain Range, unfamiliar with the terrain, he had the misfortune of being targeted by this pack of demonic wolves.


    Under their relentless harassment and attacks, Fu Dong''s mana reserves were rapidly depleting, and his injuries continued to worsen, with wounds constantly being added to his body.


    Whoosh!


    From low in the sky nearby, a light shed as it approached.


    "The ck Fog Mountain Range is different from the human world."


    A familiar man''s voice rang out.


    "Some demonic beasts have extremely keen senses. Even if you stop the bleeding, bandage your wounds, and eliminate the scent of blood, they may still detect you..."


    "Brother Cheng!"


    Fu Dong''s heart jolted as he looked towards the familiar figure with the square cap, tears filling his eyes.


    "Brother Cheng" arrived but did not immediately act. Instead, he deliberately released the spiritual pressure of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Howl!


    The head wolf at the early-stage second rank shrank back in fear and, without hesitation, led the pack to flee.


    After the wolves had left.


    Junior Brother Cheng let out a muffled groan, his face pale as he helplessly copsed to the ground, his aura also weakened.


    "Brother Cheng!"


    Fu Dong hurried over, but his body stumbled, triggering his injuries and nearly causing him to fall.


    "It''s just exhaustion; I''ll be fine." Junior Brother Cheng forced a smile.


    With Fu Dong''s help, he moved to the foot of a hill sheltered from the wind, took two pills, and sat down to meditate and heal.


    "Junior Brother Cheng, thank goodness! You managed to escape the pursuit?"


    "Yes, my talismanic treasure had onest use, and I barely managed to reverse the situation and kill that man..."


    Lan Chang''an "truthfully" recounted the events.


    He was able to find Fu Dong easily because earlier he had sent the Earth Burrowing Rat with a keen sense of smell to track him.


    In the ck Fog Mountain Range, the Earth Burrowing Rat was a lot better suited to the environment than he was.


    "Reverse the situation?"


    Fu Dong, after his initial joy, looked downcast again.


    He thought to himself, "Sure enough, without me dragging him down, Brother Cheng could exert his full strength."


    An hourter, Lan Chang''an''s aura had stabilized, and a hint of color had returned to his face.


    He opened his eyes and noticed that Fu Dong, who had been keeping watch, was staring at him.


    In Fu Dong''s eyes, aside from gratitude and respect, there was also a trace of inquiry.


    "Junior Brother Cheng, for the sake of my sister''s Core Formation, you didn''t hesitate to risk your life as a decoy. And earlier, to save me, you almost died without a proper burial."


    "Even if... you like my sister, is everything you''ve done really worth it?"


    Fu Dong, unable to bear it any longer, finally opened his heart and spoke his mind.


    Previously, he had heard rumors within the Huanglong lineage that this Junior Brother Cheng, who had once been expelled from the mountain, had feelings for his sister.


    When Fu Xuemei had first been epted into Huanglong Mountain, Junior Brother Cheng had taken good care of both siblings.


    After spending the past few days together, Fu Dong was now certain of it.


    Like your sister?


    Lan Chang''an felt a strange sensation at Fu Dong''s words.


    Thinking back on Junior Brother Cheng''s actions and his dying words, it all made sense now.


    "You don''t need to feel indebted."


    Lan Chang''an replied calmly, choosing his words carefully.


    "While I do have some fondness for your sister, the matter of being a decoy at Huanglong Mountain came with generouspensation from my Master. If the Huanglong Mountain formation hadn''t been broken so quickly, the risk wouldn''t have been as great as you imagine."


    Lan Chang''an spected that Junior Brother Cheng''s willingness to take the risk was not solely due to his feelings for Fu Xuemei. Huanglong Immortal had likely offered a substantial reward as well.


    "Oh, since you''re back, Brother Cheng, you can take this back. There''s no need for me to hand it to my sister."


    Fu Dong suddenly remembered something and took out the ultra-thin skin pouch, solemnly handing it to Lan Chang''an.


    "Hmm."


    Lan Chang''an epted the skin pouch without a word.


    This Junior Brother Cheng had risked his life to hold off the blue-robedte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, likely anticipating the possibility of his own death. As a result, he had entrusted his valuable belongings to Fu Dong.


    When Lan Chang''an scanned the skin pouch with his spiritual sense, he discovered that its material provided some concealment from spiritual probing. If kept close, it could easily be overlooked unless meticulously searched by an Immortal.


    Inside the pouch was a bottle of pills and two jade slips.


    As his spiritual sense swept over the jade bottle reinforced with restrictions, Lan Chang''an''s heart skipped a beat.


    The pill inside the jade bottle was like a zed snow jade, with slight imperfections and six and a half dao patterns on its surface.


    "Inferior Crystal Condensation Pill?"


    Lan Chang''an was shocked, utterly caught off guard.


    This Junior Brother Cheng had a Crystal Condensation Pill?


    It was understandable that Huanglong Immortal would reward him with an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill as he served as a decoy during the Core Formation attempt, cing himself in danger.


    The key point was that Junior Brother Cheng hadn''t used this Crystal Condensation Pill!


    Lan Chang''an recalled the Core Formation phenomenon he had witnessed on that day, which had been weaker than expected.


    He continued scanning the two jade slips within the pouch.


    One recorded Junior Brother Cheng''s lifetime legacy.


    The other was intended for Fu Xuemei, detailing some final matters, including the origins of the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    It turned out that Junior Brother Cheng, aware of his advanced age¡ªover one hundred and fifty¡ªand the serious injury he had suffered a decade ago, which had damaged his foundation, believed his chances of forming a core were slim.


    He had been preparing for Core Formation, but on that day, he had held back the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    He had hoped to save it for a promising descendant, trusting that Fu Xuemei would handle the matter fairly.


    ...


    "Did you look inside the pouch?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "No."


    Fu Dong responded without hesitation, his expression unchanged.


    From Fu Dong''s temperament and the subtle changes in his expression, Lan Chang''an confirmed that he was likely telling the truth.


    As for Fu Xuemei''s younger brother, Lan Chang''an had heard about him before but had never met him in person.


    He knew that this man was Fu Xuemei''s greatest weakness.


    However, he had never considered using this as leverage to exact revenge on Fu Xuemei.


    The enmity between him and Fu Xuemei was solely about resources and the path of cultivation, not involving friends or family.


    In the cultivation world, there was an unwritten rule that normal conflicts wouldn''t extend to friends, family, or innocent mortals.


    This principle was acknowledged by most cultivators, including some from the demonic path, at least on the surface.


    For Lan Chang''an personally, acting otherwise went against his heart, unless the enemy threatened his friends or family.


    Thus, when he encountered Fu Dong, he had no desire to kill him.


    If he were to target someone, it would be Fu Xuemei herself.


    In Huanglong Immortal City, he had secretly made a move with the assumption that the person attempting Core Formation was Fu Xuemei, aiming to disrupt her.


    If the target was Fu Xuemei, then regardless of sess or failure, the grudge would be settled. But as it turned out, the person attempting Core Formation wasn''t Fu Xuemei at all.


    Coincidentally, on his way back, Lan Chang''an unexpectedly ran into Fu Xuemei''s younger brother. Lan Chang''an felt that "fate had brought them together" and decided to observe the situation. Moreover, given the current chaotic situation, he might be able to profit from the turmoil and bring forward his n for Core Formation.


    Saving Fu Dong stemmed from this thought.


    Fu Dong was a key figure; through him, Lan Chang''an might find the location where Fu Xuemei was attempting Core Formation.


    However, Lan Chang''an hadn''t expected at all that by disguising himself and mingling with Fu Dong, he would so easily acquire a Crystal Condensation Pill. Unfortunately, it was an inferior one.


    An inferior Crystal Condensation Pill wasn''t very appealing to him. Due to its impure medicinal properties, it would affect the quality of the formed core.


    In this life, he had high standards for the quality of his core.


    Even if he couldn''t form a Golden Dan, the condensed True Dan had to be of the highest, if not the finest, quality.


    This would greatly increase his chances of achieving Nascent Soul in the future.


    "Let''s not make any hasty decisions. Since I''ve saved Fu Dong and secured such a valuable identity, I might as well see how things y out."


    ...


    A few dayster.


    "Junior Brother Cheng" and Fu Dong had recovered somewhat from their injuries.


    Whoosh!


    A Fake-Dan aura suddenly approached from a certain direction in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    The neer was a beautiful woman in a white robe, wounded and with a chaotic aura.


    It was none other than Bai Ling Immortal, who had previously saved Fu Dong and hispanion.


    The chapter title ;-;

 Chapter 156: Guarding the Core Formation

    Chapter 156: Guarding the Core Formation


    /membership


    Bai Ling Immortal descended from the sky, holding a mysterious pearl. Inside the pearl was a drop of crystallized blood, which she used to perform some sort of secret detection technique.


    "Aunt Ling."


    Lan Chang''an and Fu Dong stepped forward to greet her.


    Seeing that the two were safe, Bai Ling Immortal breathed a slight sigh of relief.


    Lan Chang''an had previously gathered intelligence on Huanglong Mountain, so he had a clear understanding of the rtionships among the key figures.


    Both Bai Ling Immortal and Junior Brother Cheng were considered peripheral figures. The former had parted ways with Huanglong Immortal many years ago, while thetter had been expelled from the mountain due to some misconduct.


    Junior Brother Cheng wasn''t familiar with Bai Ling Immortal.


    Normally, a disciple and their Master''s lover are unlikely to be very close. As long as Lan Chang''an spoke less and didn¡¯t reveal any obvious ws, even an ordinary Immortal wouldn¡¯t see through the disguise provided by the Hundred Illusions Mask."Little Cheng, Huanglong Mountain is in peril this time, thanks for stepping forward."


    Bai Ling Immortal inquired about the events and learned that "Junior Brother Cheng" had once again risked his life to save Fu Dong. She felt relieved, and her usually cold voice softened a bit.


    "Relieving the Master''s worries is my duty as a disciple." Lan Chang''an responded properly and exchanged a few polite words.


    Bai Ling Immortal and Junior Brother Cheng hadn¡¯t seen each other in many years. Even though Lan Chang''an¡¯s behavior might differ slightly from the past, it wasn''t enough to raise suspicion.


    Moreover, Junior Brother Cheng had just made a great contribution.


    Bai Ling Immortal handed each of them a bottle of healing pills and then took out a spirit boat.


    "Get on."


    Without exining where they were headed, Bai Ling Immortal piloted the flying boat, gliding low over the periphery of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t ask any questions and swallowed a healing pill.


    Fortunately, Bai Ling Immortal did not personally inspect their injuries. This was likely due to theck of a close rtionship¡ªafter all, Bai Ling Immortal wasn''t their Mistress, and they had lost contact many years ago.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Bai Ling Immortal''s attitude towards Fu Dong was rather cold, even less amiable than towards himself.


    ...


    The flying boat weaved through the ck Fog Mountain Range, and an ordinary cultivator would have long been disoriented.


    With the Earth Burrowing Rat at his side, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t worried about getting lost.


    Bai Ling Immortal was being so cautious.


    He couldn¡¯t help but specte about their destination.


    Three dayster, the flying boat was still circling the mountain range.


    "Aunt Ling, my injuries are mostly healed. If we¡¯re headed to a particrly secret location, this junior can take his leave." Lan Chang''an spoke up.


    "No need. At present, among the direct lineage of Huanglong Mountain, only you and Yifeng can be trusted." Bai Ling Immortal said calmly.


    "Moreover, the enemy has pursued us to the northwest. That ce may not remain hidden, and we need reliable hands to help defend it."


    Lan Chang''an nodded and didn¡¯t press further.


    From this test, he confirmed that Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s manpower and resources were indeed limited.


    From various clues and signs, it seemed that the Core Formation Immortals at Huanglong Immortal City were keeping each other in check. The manpower involved in preventing Fu Xuemei from forming her core was at most Fake Dan Immortals.


    Ten dayster.


    The flying boat entered a basin concealed by a grand illusion formation. Surrounding the basin were five towering peaks, forming a natural Five Elements Formation.


    Due to the illusion formation¡¯s concealment, the center of the five peaks appeared to be filled with mist and an endless abyss.


    "Hmm? The spiritual energy of heaven and earth is gathering¡­ Is there a hidden spiritual vein here?"


    Upon entering the basin, Lan Chang''an¡¯s sharp senses and his knowledge from his previous life quickly made a discovery.


    Heavenly spiritual veins aren¡¯t confined to the human world.


    Within the ck Fog Mountain Range, spiritual veins could also be found in the territories of demon beasts.


    However, the spiritual veins in the ck Fog Mountain Range were mostly upied by powerful demon beasts. Due to the unique geographical environment and the influence of the beast races over countless years, the characteristics of these veins weren¡¯t particrly suitable for human cultivation.


    The hidden vein beneath this basin was a small, high-quality second-rank spiritual vein, simr to a dormant volcano that needed a formation to activate.


    With the natural formation and the gathering formation in ce, it now reached the level of a quasi-third-rank spiritual vein.


    If arge number of spiritual stones were added, it was theoretically possible to raise the spiritual pressure to that of a third-rank vein for a short period.


    "I see."


    Lan Chang''an was certain that this was the secret location where Fu Xuemei intended to form her core.


    Huanglong Mountain had been rooted in the ck Fog Mountain Range for hundreds of years. Finding such a small hidden vein wasn¡¯t particrly surprising once the answer was revealed.


    ...


    "Little Dong!"


    A serene and ethereal female voice, carrying the joy of clear skies after rain, echoed from a stone hall in the center of the basin.


    After many years, Lan Chang''an once again saw Fu Xuemei.


    Her long, pale purple hair fluttered in the wind, and her moon-white robe outlined her graceful and proud figure.


    Her lips were naturally red, her eyebrows naturally green, giving her the air of an orchid in a secluded valley, exuding an otherworldly and independent aura.


    Fu Xuemei took her brother¡¯s arm and conversed with him, full of concern after their life-and-death reunion.


    "Aunt Ling, Senior Brother Cheng, thank you for rescuing Little Dong."


    Fu Xuemei calmed her emotions and gave Lan Chang''an and Bai Ling Immortal an apologetic smile.


    She bowed deeply. "I will never forget today¡¯s kindness. Once I form my core, I will surely repay it."


    "Junior Sister, there¡¯s no need for such formalities. Helping a fellow disciple is only natural." Lan Chang''an responded politely.


    Then, Bai Ling Immortal and Fu Dong recounted the events, while Lan Chang''an spoke little.


    Lan Chang''an could sense that Fu Xuemei kept a certain distance from him, despite her respect and genuine gratitude.


    Perhaps Fu Xuemei knew about Junior Brother Cheng¡¯s unrequited feelings for her and had even explicitly rejected him.


    This sense of distance was beneficial to Lan Chang''an¡¯s disguise.


    Moreover, since Junior Brother Cheng had been expelled from the mountain for many years, their rtionship had be even more distant. Fu Xuemei likely knew little about what had happened in his life during those years.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that even if he acted slightly out of character, Fu Xuemei might not be suspicious.


    "Xuemei, are you ready?" Bai Ling Immortal asked.


    "Almost! Seeing my brother has put my mind at ease."


    Fu Xuemei smiled slightly and activated her Foundation Establishment power. The fluctuation of her aura, although not yet at the peak of Foundation Establishment, was already beyond that of a cultivator who had just entered the ninth level of Foundation Establishment.


    "Xuemei, you still have a choice."


    "One, you can wait until the turmoil has passed and attempt to form your core at your peak state, but Huanglong Mountain may fall into someone else¡¯s hands."


    "Two, you can attempt to form your core now, but you might be detected by the Fake Dan Immortal chasing us."


    Bai Ling Immortal spoke solemnly.


    "If I don¡¯t form my core now, it will be difficult to find another opportunity in the short term, and Huanglong Mountain will definitely change hands."


    Fu Xuemei didn¡¯t hesitate and chose to form her core immediately.


    If she seeded, with the help of the Huang Dragon Beast and her Master¡¯s remaining lifespan, they could protect Huanglong Mountain for a few more years.


    This would be equivalent to having three True Dan Immortals, which would be enough to help Huanglong Mountain through its current crisis.


    "I¡¯ll have to trouble Aunt Ling and Senior Brother Cheng."


    Fu Xuemei made a long bow.


    After taking onest look at her brother, she returned alone to the stone hall.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that after seeing her brother, thest trace of worry in Fu Xuemei¡¯s eyes disappeared, and her state of mind becamepletely serene.


    As a genius with earth-grade spiritual roots and aplete opportunity to form her core, the biggest factor affecting her sess and the quality of her core was her brother, Fu Dong.


    This was why Bai Ling had gone to fetch Fu Dong.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    The sky above the basin was filled with a massive gathering of spiritual energy, emitting overwhelming spiritual pressure.


    The heavenly phenomenon that urs when one breaks through a major realm couldn¡¯t be concealed, even by the illusion formation.


    Within a hundred li, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth was in turmoil.


    Fortunately, this area was on the outskirts of the ck Fog Mountain Range, where no powerful demon beasts resided. In fact, the nearby beasts were avoiding the area.


    Watching the mass of spiritual clouds stabilizing above him, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of absurdity.


    "Am I really going to be Fu Xuemei¡¯s protector during her core formation?"


    Originally, Lan Chang''an hade to Huanglong Immortal City intending to secretly interfere with Fu Xuemei¡¯s core formation. In the end, it turned out the person going through Core Formation in Huanglong Mountain wasn¡¯t Fu Xuemei.


    With a casual mindset, he had left Huanglong Immortal City. Unexpectedly, he encountered Fu Dong, and this opportunity fell into hisp. Then, by coincidence, he received Huanglong Mountain¡¯s "gratitude," and by sheer chance, obtained an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill.


    "It¡¯s almost time to take the Crystal Condensation Pill."


    As a reborn cultivator, Lan Chang''an silently observed, assessing the situation.


    He weighed the pros and cons, considering whether he should flee. After all, Fu Xuemei and the others didn¡¯t know his true identity.


    A Fake Dan cultivator couldn¡¯t do anything to him, and Bai Ling Immortal wouldn¡¯t abandon Fu Xuemei to give chase.


    Based on his current spiritual sense, he judged that the Hundred Illusions Mask could likely conceal him even from an early-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    Leaving after everything was settled was also an option. Perhaps, this identity of Junior Brother Cheng might even bring him benefits in the future.


    ...


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Dozens of li away, two streaks of light carrying Core Power shot through the sky, swiftly approaching the basin.


    "A core formation phenomenon! We¡¯ve finally found it!"


    Xiang Jinglong and He Yuanwu exchanged nces and burst intoughter, heading straight for the basin.


    Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s expression changed, and she quickly made a decision.


    "Little Cheng, Xuemei is at a critical stage in her core formation. I¡¯ll go hold off those two Fake Dan cultivators."


    "But I¡­" Lan Chang''an hesitated.


    If Bai Ling Immortal asked him to join the battle against the Fake Dan cultivators, he definitely wouldn¡¯t be willing.


    Not interfering was already good enough; how could he possibly help?


    Bai Ling Immortal tossed him a formation token and instructed:


    "This is themand token for the stone hall¡¯s formation."


    "Stay here and act as the guardian. Don¡¯t let anyone disrupt Xuemei¡¯s core formation, and make sure Fu Dong isn¡¯t harmed."


    The hidden vein beneath the basin, bolstered by the formation and spiritual stones, barely reached the spiritual pressure of a third-rank vein, so it couldn¡¯t bear much additional burden.


    Therefore, they could only set up a small-scale second-rank superior-grade formation, just enough to protect the stone hall.


    If they huddled inside the stone hall and passively defended themselves, the attackers would inevitably disturb Fu Xuemei¡¯s core formation.


    "You want me to be the guardian?"


    Lan Chang''an took the token, his eyes narrowing as a sense of absurdity washed over him once more.

 Chapter 157: Seizing the Opportunity

    Chapter 157: Seizing the Opportunity


    After giving her instructions, Bai Ling Immortal went alone to confront the two Fake Dan cultivators.


    "Fellow Daoist He, don¡¯t hold back this time. If you have any interest in that old bitch, we can capture her alive after seriously injuring her. Then you can enjoy her as you please," Xiang Jinglong reminded.


    Earlier, the two had already fought Bai Ling Immortal once. He Yuanwu seemed to have hesitated due to old feelings, which had led to a prolonged battle and ultimately failing to catch up to Fu Dong and the others in time.


    "Shut up! It¡¯s not what you think¡­" He Yuanwu¡¯s face showed displeasure, his emotional reaction faintly showed that he was on the verge of bing angry out of shame.


    "Hehehe, no harm done! Let¡¯s capture her first! As for that little bitch Fu Xuemei, she¡¯s probably the one who framed me. Let me handle herter," Xiang Jinglong chuckled darkly.


    As they conversed, their bodies surged with Core power. They summoned their magical treasures and attacked Bai Ling Immortal from both sides.


    Bai Ling Immortal wore a pair of spirit boots that shed with white light beneath her feet, making her as elusive as a breeze. She tapped the space between her brows, and her eyes glowed with piercing light, her spiritual sense waves rising half a level.


    Whoosh! Sizzle!A semi-transparent sword magical treasure split into dozens of invisible sword shadows, darting unpredictably to strike at the weak spots of the two Fake Dan cultivators.


    "The Shadow Splitting Sword! Enhanced to the eighthyer through a secret technique!"


    He Yuanwu¡¯s heart tightened. He hadn¡¯t expected Bai Ling Immortal to unleash her trump card right from the start.


    This sword technique, when enhanced to the eighthyer, corresponded to the mid-Core Formation stage. Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s use of a secret technique to amplify it would drain her mind and life force significantly, a hefty price to pay.


    The attack surpassed the power of a Fake Dan cultivator, and its speed left the two wary and entangled, unable to gain the upper hand quickly.


    He Yuanwu and Xiang Jinglong excelled in frontalbat, and both had cultivated body-refining techniques that reached thete Foundation Establishment stage, giving them strong defenses. However, their attack speed couldn¡¯tpare to Bai Ling Immortal.


    Lan Chang''an nced at the ongoing battle, estimating that Bai Ling Immortal wouldn¡¯t be able to hold out for long. Fu Xuemei¡¯s Core Formation would still take several days.


    At this moment, with the Fake Dan Immortals fully engaged, no one was paying attention to him.


    He had two choices.


    The first was to seize the opportunity to escape, distancing himself from the situation and reaping the benefits as an outsider.


    By a twist of fate, Lan Chang''an¡¯s urge to intervene had waned, but he wasn¡¯t so magnanimous as to help Fu Xuemei guard her Core Formation seclusion out of kindness.


    The second option was to continue blending in with the Huanglong Mountain, ying along until the crucial moment to sow chaos, disrupt Fu Xuemei¡¯s Core Formation, and profit from the ensuing disorder.


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment and decided to act cautiously, avoiding any high-risk moves.


    "Senior Brother Cheng."


    Just as he was about to take action, a clear and gentle female voice echoed in his ear.


    "Aunt Ling¡¯s secret technique won¡¯tst long. Take this talismanic treasure and use it when the time is right to assist her."


    A talismanic treasure engraved with a violet pearl flew out from the stone hall andnded in Lan Chang''an¡¯s hand.


    Lan Chang''an took a nce at it, this talismanic treasure¡¯s power exceeded the ordinary and could pose a threat to a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Given her background as a genius with earth spiritual roots, Fu Xuemei naturally had exceptional life-saving methods.


    She entrusted the talismanic treasure to Lan Chang''an because histe Foundation Establishment cultivation and strong spiritual sense allowed him to wield the talismanic treasure¡¯s full power.


    "Little Dong, take these talismans and this superior-grade second-rank puppet, you''ll use them for defenseter."


    Fu Xuemei then gave instructions to her brother through sound transmission. Another storage pouch flew out from the stone hall, providing him with the necessary defensive tools.


    Among the talismans Fu Dong received, there were even two quasi-third-rank ones.


    This action did not go unnoticed by the two Fake Dan cultivators attacking from afar.


    He Yuanwu and Xiang Jinglong had actually considered splitting up, with one of them attacking the stone hall to disrupt Fu Xuemei¡¯s Core Formation. However, Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s sudden burst of strength was overwhelming, almost equivalent to an early-stage true Core Formation cultivator. A single Fake Dan couldn¡¯t withstand her assault alone and would easily be taken down alone.


    "Junior Brother Cheng, the situation is beyond resistance. With the two of us Fake Dan Immortals here, it¡¯s impossible for Junior Sister to seed in forming her core."


    "The Master granted you an inferior-quality Crystal Condensation Pill. You¡¯ve already risked your life once for Huanglong Mountain, making you even. Back then, the youngest sister denounced you, leading to your expulsion from the mountain, how heartless is that? Neither logic nor emotion justify making such meaningless sacrifices for you."


    He Yuanwu tried to persuade Lan Chang''an, offering some benefits in return.


    He and Junior Brother Cheng had been close in the past, but after thetter was expelled from the mountain, they lost contact for many years.


    "Hmph! You think Little Cheng is like you, a backstabbing traitor?" Bai Ling Immortal snorted coldly, intensifying her attacks on He Yuanwu, preventing him from continuing his psychological maniption.


    "Indeed, Senior Brother He, your words ring true."


    Lan Chang''an remained silent for two breaths before sighing lightly.


    What?


    Bai Ling Immortal and Fu Dong¡¯s expressions changed drastically.


    Fu Xuemei, who was inside the stone hall behind them, felt her state of mind waver.


    Even He Yuanwu seemed slightly taken aback.


    "Junior Sister, my heart is weary, and I no longer wish to involve myself in the mountain''s disputes."


    Lan Chang''an expressed a hint of apology, put away the talismanic treasure, and stood up to leave the stone hall.


    He Yuanwu¡¯s words had conveniently given him an excuse to back out openly.


    This behavior, even if somewhat abnormal, didn¡¯t bother him.


    Junior Brother Cheng had indeed shown genuine loyalty and affection toward his mountain, but those feelings were mixed with some selfishness. Without the Crystal Condensation Pill, this person wouldn''t have been selfless and risked his life as a decoy. Thus, after obtaining the Crystal Condensation Pill, he felt it was no longer worthwhile to continue, and withdrawing was a natural choice.


    "Brother Cheng!"


    "Senior Brother Cheng¡­"


    Fu Xuemei and Fu Dong wanted to stop him but found it hard to speak.


    Junior Brother Cheng had already served as a decoy for Huanglong Mountain and had risked his life to save Fu Dong, fulfilling his duty to the utmost.


    "Hahaha! Junior Brother Cheng has finally seen the light. What¡¯s there to linger for at Huanglong Mountain? After this, let¡¯s drink together, just the two of us."


    He Yuanwuughed heartily, fully supporting "Junior Brother Cheng¡¯s" decision as a fellow traitor of Huanglong Mountain.


    Far from being suspicious, he understood his junior brother¡¯s mindset better than anyone else.


    If he had been in his ce, he would have defected long ago.


    With "Junior Brother Cheng" giving up, Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s powerful attacks seemed to lose some of their sharpness.


    "Brother He, your words are truly effective. You managed to turn a fellow disciple with just a few words."


    Xiang Jinglong couldn¡¯t help but praise.


    ...


    "Senior Brother, please wait."


    Just as Lan Chang''an ascended into the air, a soft sigh reached his ears.


    At this moment, Fu Xuemei, while forming her core, split her attention to use a secret technique for transmitting her voice, a method that the Fake Dan cultivators couldn¡¯t easily detect.


    "What else does Junior Sister Fu have to say?" Lan Chang''an responded coldly.


    "Senior Brother, you risked your life to save Little Dong, fulfilling your duty to the utmost. I have no right to ask for more. However, the situation is critical. I am at the pivotal moment of my Core Formation and cannot afford to stop."


    "Though I cannot offer you any tangible benefits, I can make a promise."


    "If you do your best to guard me, and if things be too dangerous, protect Little Dong and take him away¡­ I will fulfill the request you made of me years ago."


    "The request from years ago?"


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t know the exact details.


    He could only guess that Junior Brother Cheng had once liked Fu Xuemei and might have pursued her as a Daopanion.


    He Yuanwu had mentioned earlier that Junior Sister Fu had exposed Junior Brother Cheng, leading to his expulsion from the sect.


    Perhaps he''d done something unspeakable.


    Fu Xuemei, though a genius with earth spiritual roots, was still a low-level cultivator when she first joined Huanglong Mountain. In the eyes of her senior brothers with high cultivation levels, she would have been a weak junior who needed protection.


    "Junior Sister Fu, I¡¯m old and my heart is tired, I¡¯ve lost interest in the affairs of the past."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t know the exact details, but that didn¡¯t stop him from making a reasonable refusal.


    After all, so many years had passed, and people¡¯s hearts could change.


    The Hundred Illusions Mask didn¡¯t just alter his appearance and voice; it allowed him to perfectly simte someone else¡¯s aura and mannerisms. Even if his cover was blown, it was just an alias, and it wouldn¡¯t cause much harm to Lan Chang''an.


    "Senior Brother, you may ask for anything¡­"


    "Junior Sister Fu, there¡¯s no need to say more! I¡¯ve already saved your brother once. I don¡¯t want to risk my life again."


    "Besides the Crystal Condensation Pill, you have nothing that can tempt me."


    Lan Chang''an calmly tested her.


    Fu Xuemei fell silent for a few moments before transmitting her voice again:


    "The Crystal Condensation Pill is not up for negotiation."


    "I¡¯ve only just entered the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, and my foundation is slightlycking. Without the Crystal Condensation Pill, there¡¯s a high chance of failure during Core Formation. The bacsh would be severe, and even if I survived, I would likely be gravely injured. In that case, I wouldn¡¯t be able to protect myself, let alone my younger brother."


    "She¡¯s not foolish," Lan Chang''an thought.


    Fu Xuemei had a clear understanding of the situation. She wouldn¡¯t give in to threats and wouldn¡¯t agree to unreasonable demands.


    "Senior Brother hadn''t used the inferior Crystal Condensation Pill previously, would Junior Sister consider trading it?"


    Lan Chang''an had a sudden idea and made the suggestion.


    "Inferior Crystal Condensation Pill?"


    Fu Xuemei fell silent again, this time for even longer.


    ...


    ng! Boom!


    On the other side, the battle between the three Fake Dan cultivators grew more intense.


    Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s forehead was beaded with sweat, her mental and physical energy draining rapidly. She was already struggling to keep the two Fake Dan cultivators at bay.


    "Xuemei, I won¡¯t be able to hold out much longer. You need to prepare for the worst." Bai Ling Immortal transmitted her message.


    Fu Xuemei took a deep breath, stabilizing theke of mana that was boiling inside her body like magma.


    "Senior Brother Cheng, pleasee inside so we can talk." She transmitted her voice to Lan Chang''an.


    "Alright."


    Lan Chang''an, without haste or expression, returned to the stone hall.


    "Brother Cheng," Fu Dong wanted to say something, but after receiving Fu Xuemei''smand, he didn''t stop him.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an entered the stone hall.


    He saw Fu Xuemei sitting cross-legged, surrounded by a dense aura of spiritual light as she focused on forming her core.


    This peerless beauty, who once resembled an orchid in a secluded valley, no longer appearedposed. Her ck hair was slightly disheveled, and beads of sweat dotted her smooth forehead.


    "Junior Sister Fu, have you made up your mind?" Lan Chang''an asked for confirmation.


    "The seeds sown in the past¡­ perhaps this cmity was destined for me."


    Fu Xuemei¡¯s lips curved into a bitter smile, and her face took on a nostalgic expression, as if recalling a familiar scene.


    Whoosh!


    A crystalline pill marked with seven Dao patterns appeared in her palm.


    "A genuine Crystal Condensation Pill."


    Lan Chang''an suppressed his inner joy.


    In his previous life, he didn''t know how much he had paid to obtain this pill. The difficulty of acquiring a Crystal Condensation Pill far exceeded that of a Foundation Establishment Pill by tenfold. Involved in Core Formation and the quality of the resulting core, even the slightest risk was worth taking.


    "Junior Sister has decided to exchange this standard Crystal Condensation Pill for Senior Brother Cheng¡¯s inferior Crystal Condensation Pill. I trust in Senior Brother¡¯s integrity."


    The genuine Crystal Condensation Pill in Fu Xuemei¡¯s hand slowly floated towards Lan Chang''an.


    "Just to be clear, I¡¯m only ate Foundation Establishment cultivator and can only act within that level¡¯s limits."


    Lan Chang''an took out the inferior Crystal Condensation Pill, assuming the role of a trader.


    "I will help guard to the best of my ability. But if things go south, I¡¯ll at most try to do my best to take Fu Dong away."


    Lan Chang''an made it clear that he would only exert the effort expected of ate Foundation Establishment cultivator and wouldn¡¯t risk his life. Although he wasn¡¯t afraid of Fake Dan Immortals and even had a trump card that could threaten them.


    "So be it."


    Fu Xuemei nodded. Hearing Lan Chang''an¡¯s honest words made her trust him even more.


    If Senior Brother Cheng obtained a genuine Crystal Condensation Pill, there was more or less a glimmer of hope to end up with a True Core, at least a Gray Dan was not a delusion. But, If he were to fight to the death, even obtaining a superior Crystal Condensation Pill would be in vain.


    Whoosh!


    Lan Chang''an channeled his magic power, causing the bottle containing the inferior Crystal Condensation Pill to slowly float towards Fu Xuemei at a matching speed.


    Throughout the process, he remained vignt.


    He was mainly wary of the Fake Dan Immortals outside. Fu Xuemei had most of her focus on maintaining her Core Formation, so she couldn¡¯t pull any tricks.


    If Lan Chang''an had no scruples, he could easily pull a double-cross at this moment, and his chances of sess would be quite high.


    However, it¡¯s always wise to leave a way out. He couldn¡¯t be certain that Fu Xuemei didn¡¯t have some hidden trick up her sleeve.


    Not to mention, the nearly condensed, viscous mana in Fu Xuemei¡¯s sea of mana could, in such close quarters, be a perfect self-destruct mechanism if things went south.


    The exchange proceeded smoothly.


    The two Crystal Condensation Pills of different qualities floated simultaneously into the hands of Lan Chang''an and Fu Xuemei.


    Both kept their word.


    "Thank you, Junior Sister, for this opportunity."


    Lan Chang''an took the genuine Crystal Condensation Pill and sighed in relief, feeling a weight lifted off his shoulders. All the grievances of the past seemed to vanish without a trace.


    He bowed respectfully to Fu Xuemei.


    Though it was just a transaction, at that moment, he had taken away one of Fu Xuemei¡¯s precious opportunities on the path of cultivation.


    "Senior Brother Cheng, please me for not standing up to return the bow."


    As the transaction concluded, Fu Xuemei felt a strange sense of ease, as if she had passed a trial in the depths of her heart.


    "Senior Brother saved Little Dong¡¯s life and is now risking himself to guard me. This transaction is fair and just, with no grudges or debts between us." Her snow-white face, pure and free of any seductive charm, showed a relieved smile.


    Her words implied that if she seeded in forming her core, she would not me Lan Chang''an for what had transpired.


    "Then I wish Junior Sister sess in Core Formation."


    Lan Chang''an safely stored the Crystal Condensation Pill, smiling without taking Fu Xuemei¡¯s words entirely to heart.


    He had his own judgment on this matter.


    Based on his experience, if this event left a knot in Fu Xuemei''s heart, her already slightly weaker foundation,bined with having only an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill and external influences, would likely lead to failure in her Core Formation. The higher the realm one aims to achieve, the more critical one''s state of mind bes.


    For her to seed, she would have to truly let go, without any lingering grudges. Only then would she have a chance at sessful Core Formation.


    Even if she seeded, given all the various negative factors, the quality of her core would likely be subpar.

 Chapter 158: Targeting a Certain Someone

    Chapter 158: Targeting a Certain Someone


    Lan Chang''an stepped out of the stone hall.


    Above his head, the clouds of spiritual energy began to spin faster, the phenomenon of Core Formation rising to new heights.


    Once the process of Core Formation enters theter stages, it cannot be interrupted. Otherwise, it would be considered a failure, resulting in a powerful bacsh.


    Just moments ago, Fu Xuemei had consumed the inferior Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Inferior Crystal Condensation Pills not only have poor efficacy but also contain more impurities, which would affect the quality of the resulting core.


    During the Foundation Establishment Realm, Lan Chang''an might have considered an inferior pill as a backup option. But at this critical stage of Core Formation, he wouldn¡¯t even think about using inferior items. This is because the quality of the core directly influences the sess or failure of forming the Nascent Soul in the future.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had heard that rare and superior-grade Crystal Condensation Pills could make the Core Formation process smoother, and for those with high potential, it could even free them from the constraints of sess or failure, allowing them to enhance the quality of the core instead.


    In some ancient sects with long histories, the Golden Dan seeds were often provided with superior Crystal Condensation Pills as standard, paired with various Core Formation spiritual items to enhance the quality and greatly increase the chances of achieving an "Immortal Golden Dan."Currently, Lan Chang''an had a genuine Crystal Condensation Pill and a Core Formation spiritual item, the Tianjing Water. Compared to those sect geniuses and Golden Dan seeds, however, he was far behind!


    "Haha! Junior Brother Cheng, this n is truly brilliant! We deceived her into giving us the genuine Crystal Condensation Pill without much effort."


    Not far away, He Yuanwu, who was engaged in battle, praised loudly.


    Just now, when Lan Chang''an and Fu Xuemei exchanged the Crystal Condensation Pills, it did not escape the detection of the three Fake Dan Immortals'' spiritual senses.


    Lan Chang''an naturally noticed this.


    As long as Bai Ling Immortal didn¡¯t object, there wouldn''t be a problem.


    Bai Ling Immortal, aware of the dire situation, and out of gratitude for Junior Brother Cheng¡¯s previous life-saving efforts, chose not to interfere in the transaction.


    Without Junior Brother Cheng''s help, she won''t be able to hold off the two Fake Dan cultivators for long. The early-stage Foundation Establishment Fu Dong won''t be able to stop them at all, and Fu Xuemei will likely face death and the end of her cultivation path.


    "Senior Brother He, you¡¯re mistaken," Lan Chang''an shook his head andughed.


    "Junior Sister and I are from the same mountain. I''ve sold my life for her before, and now we are engaging in a fair transaction. This way, I''ve fulfilled my obligations both personally and in terms of duty."


    Afterpleting the transaction, he sensed the probing of the two Fake Dan Immortals, their spiritual senses tinged with greed.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an was using the alias of Junior Brother Cheng; or else he''d have to consider making a run for it and disappearing to some far-off ce.


    Having already obtained this Crystal Condensation Pill, he wasn¡¯t worried about his identity being exposed. Aside from the excellent effect of the Hundred Illusions Mask, Lan Chang''an¡¯s own cultivation was only at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage.


    In the cultivation world, it wasmon for those with high cultivation to disguise themselves as having a lower cultivation level. But for a lower cultivation to simte a higher one with stable effects and deceive an ordinary Immortal was almost unheard of.


    Illusions created through magic can be easily seen through and are not included in this category.


    At least, in his previous life, Lan Chang''an had never seen any tool or secret technique that could achieve such an effect.


    ...


    In the basin.


    Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s breathing was heavy, herbat power gradually declining due to the overexertion of her spiritual and mental energies.


    Boom!


    The second-rank superior-grade puppet controlled by Fu Dong attempted to assist but was struck and sent flying by a casual swipe of the Fake Dan opponent''s Core power from a distance.


    Fortunately, it was a puppet with high defense; if it had been someone at thete Foundation Establishment stage, they would have been seriously injured.


    "Leave the puppet to me. You fall back a bit and focus on controlling the formation''s defenses to prevent any Fake Dan from attacking."


    Lan Chang''an instructed, taking the puppet''s control item from Fu Dong.


    Fu Dong hesitated for a moment before handing it over obediently.


    The look he gave Lan Chang''an was now less reverent than before.


    Rationally, he knew that "Brother Cheng" was risking his life to protect his sister and was fully entitled to bepensated for it. But emotionally, he couldn''t help but feel slightly ufortable.


    This was about his sister¡¯s sess in forming her core, possibly even her life and death.


    Whoosh!


    The puppet controlled by Lan Chang''an moved swiftly, harassing the two Fake Dan Immortals.


    The puppet¡¯s movements were quick and skillful, maintaining a delicate distance, dodging the casual long-range strikes from the Fake Dan Immortal.


    "Junior Brother Cheng, now that you''ve got the Crystal Condensation Pill, it''s best to stop meddling here!" He Yuanwu''s face darkened, his brows furrowing.


    With Junior Brother Cheng¡¯ste Foundation Establishment spiritual sense controlling the puppet, its threat level had risen by two notches.


    His movements were steady yet agile, forcing the Fake Dan Immortal engaged in directbat to pay attention to him, slightly distracting their focus.


    If they dealt with him, it could affect the bnce of the direct confrontation, possibly leading to a cascade of failures.


    If they didn¡¯t deal with him, it would indeed cause interference.


    A Fake Dan Immortal couldn¡¯tpletely ignore the attacks of ate Foundation Establishment cultivator, especially during directbat when the mana shield was thin.


    If the puppet were to strike their lower body, the hindrance would not be small.


    "Mm? His puppet control skills aren''t bad?" Bai Ling Immortal noticed that after Lan Chang''an took control of the puppet, the pressure on her lessened slightly.


    Lan Chang''an was very precise in maintaining distance, seemingly familiar with the maximum threat range of a Fake Dan Immortal and the possible ways they could attack.


    At one point, the direction of Lan Chang''an''s puppet harassment and Bai Ling Immortal''s attack formed a subtle pincer, making their targeted opponent, Xiang Jinglong, extremely ufortable.


    Swoosh!


    An eerie, invisible sword shadow tore through his robe, leaving a shallow blood mark.


    "Bastard!"


    Xiang Jinglong was utterly frightened, realizing that most of Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppet harassment was directed at him.


    He tried several times to use his Core power to strike from a distance and destroy it, but Lan Chang''an''s feints distracted him, further splitting his focus.


    "It can''t be too obvious," Lan Chang''an reminded himself, ensuring that his puppet control skills seemed slightly better than an ordinaryte Foundation Establishment cultivator, but not superior to a second-rank superior-grade puppet master.


    The effectiveness of his control wasn¡¯t just due to Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s strong offense; it also stemmed from his understanding ofbat against Fake Dan Immortal.


    As long as he didn¡¯t appear too extraordinary, it would be fine.


    After all, Junior Brother Cheng was a veteran at thete Foundation Establishment stage. Having been expelled from the sect years ago, it was reasonable that he had made some progress.


    Nearby, Fu Dong was astonished and couldn¡¯t hide his embarrassment.


    "Brother Cheng."


    Fu Dong quietly handed Lan Chang''an a quasi-third-rank talisman.


    Earlier, Fu Xuemei had given her brother two quasi-third-rank talismans, one of which was an attacking talisman.


    "Hmm."


    Lan Chang''an nodded. A quasi-third-rank attack talisman would perform more stably in the hands of ate Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    ...


    As time passed.


    Bai Ling Immortal''sbat strength continued to decline, but she managed to maintain a delicate bnce with Lan Chang''an, barely holding off the two Fake Dan opponents.


    Several times, one of the Fake Dan Immortals nearly seeded in breaking into the stone hall.


    Inside the stone hall¡¯s formation, Fu Dong asionally activated a second-rank superior-grade talisman to relieve some of Bai Ling Immortal''s pressure.


    "Fu Xuemei will need at least another two or three days to sessfully form her core. It''s hard to achieve sess while on the defensive."


    Despite the current stalemate, Lan Chang''an wasn''t optimistic.


    Bai Ling Immortal was using a secret technique, rapidly depleting her spiritual energy, and couldn''t maintain her peak strength for long.


    Once she reached her limit, she wouldn¡¯t be able to hold off the two Fake Dans, or even one of them might be enough to overpower her.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind raced, and he made his puppet take a small risk, advancing slightly to strike at Xiang Jinglong''s exposed back.


    "Break for me!"


    Xiang Jinglong suddenly elerated towards Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppet, his palm surging with Core power, forming a fierce swirling wind that enveloped the puppet.


    Boom! Crack!


    Under the deliberate targeting of the Fake Dan Immortal, the second-rank superior-grade puppet was instantly torn apart.


    "Got tricked! That was a deliberate trap." Xiang Jinglong sneered, feeling a rush of satisfaction as if he had just swatted a bothersome fly.


    At that moment, a powerful spiritual pressure descended.


    "Watch out!" He Yuanwu warned.


    In an instant, a dark red cloud of fire roared toward Xiang Jinglong, engulfing him.


    "Quasi-third-rank talisman! It can''t hurt me!"


    Amidst the exploding mes, Xiang Jinglong''s angry voice echoed.


    "A Fake Dan Immortal can only control one magic treasure at most, consuming a lot of energy. You¡¯ve just split your attention to destroy the puppet, so you can''t defend at full strength."


    Lan Chang''an watched coldly, estimating that Xiang Jinglong¡¯s protective barrier would shatter, leaving him with some flesh injuries.


    If it weren¡¯t for his cultivation in body refinement, with a physiqueparable to the top of the second rank, these wouldn¡¯t just be minor injuries.


    As the mes began to dissipate, Lan Chang''an activated the violet pearl talismanic treasure that Fu Xuemei had given him.


    Since he had promised to protect her, he couldn¡¯t afford to hold back, or it would be clear he was cking off.


    The violet pearl talismanic treasure glowed vividly, almost leaping out of its design, emitting the pressure of a magical treasure.


    Swoosh!


    The talisman transformed into a violet orb of light, flying to Xiang Jinglong¡¯s head, casting down a violet radiance with a power that faintly surpassed that of a Fake Dan.


    The talismanic treasure Fu Xuemei had given him was an exceptionally rare superior quality talisman.


    Xiang Jinglong immediately felt the threat.


    With the mes still lingering on his body, he hurriedly summoned back his axe-shaped magical treasure, cing it above his head.


    The violet radiance struck the axe, dimming its light and causing it to tremble.


    This gave the faster Bai Ling Immortal an opportunity.


    Swoosh swoosh swoosh!


    Several erratic, invisible sword shadows shed towards Xiang Jinglong.


    Fortunately, half of the invisible sword shadows were intercepted by He Yuanwu.


    "Hiss!"


    Xiang Jinglong grunted, rolling on the ground to protect his vital points.


    His back and arms were left with bloody gashes, deep enough to see the bone.


    "Stop!"


    Luckily, He Yuanwu on the other side went all out, barely managing to hold off Bai Ling Immortal.


    Xiang Jinglong finally had a moment to catch his breath, reinjecting mana into his magical treasure to block the violet orb¡¯s strike.


    "This brat! He¡¯s deliberately targeting me?"


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s eyes filled with rage as he red at Lan Chang''an within the stone hall¡¯s formation.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time.


    Since controlling the puppet, Lan Chang''an had mainly harassed and hindered him.


    Earlier, he had used the second-rank superior-grade puppet as bait, followed by a series of attacks with a quasi-third-rank talisman and a powerful talisman treasure, coordinating with Bai Ling Immortal and nearly taking his life.


    "Who else would I target if not you, since you¡¯re the weaker one?" Lan Chang''an remained silent, ignoring Xiang Jinglong¡¯s resentful gaze.


    Seeing that the situation had stabilized, he temporarily retracted the talisman treasure to conserve its usage.

 Chapter 159: Retreating with Success

    Chapter 159: Retreating with Sess


    Lan Chang''an avoided targeting He Yuanwu, not only because he was stronger, but also because the identity of Junior Brother Cheng had a rtively good rtionship with He Yuanwu. This left him with no choice but to focus his attacks on Xiang Jinglong, concentrating his firepower on one person.


    "Fellow Daoist He, I need to take a breather," Xiang Jinglong said after being injured, his strength having dropped by twenty to thirty percent.


    He reced his magical treasure with a supreme-grade magical weapon and swallowed a few pills.


    A Fake-Dan Immortal cannot fully wield the power of a magical treasure, and using one consumes a significant amount of energy, making it unsustainable in prolonged battles.


    Bai Ling Immortal¡¯s Invisible Sword magical treasure, however, was refined into her life-bound treasure, so it consumed less energy. But even so, in a two-on-one situation, her overall consumption was still significant.


    With the loss of the second-rank superior-grade puppet''s support, her declining strength made her more and more unable to keep up.


    "Brother He, we should take turns using our magical treasures to easily wear her down," Xiang Jinglong suggested.


    "Hmm," He Yuanwu, who was also exhausted, lowered the frequency of his magical treasure''s activation.Bai Ling Immortal, however, couldn¡¯t switch to a supreme-grade magical weapon. Doing so would drastically reduce her threat level, allowing one of the two enemy Fake-Dans to easily break off and attack the stone hall.


    This situation quickly became a reality.


    When Xiang Jinglong rotated to use his magical treasure, He Yuanwu simultaneously wielded two supreme-grade magical weapons. One was used to tie up Bai Ling Immortal, while the other attacked the stone hall.


    The stone hall was protected by a second-rank superior-grade formation. A normal attack from a Fake-Dan Immortal wouldn¡¯t break it instantly.


    Seniorte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators wouldn¡¯t be instantly killed by a Fake Dan either; they could barely hold on and struggle for a while.


    Lan Chang''an and Fu Dong brought out supreme-grade magical weapons, using them in conjunction with second-rank talismans to defend the edges of the formation.


    Fortunately, they managed to avoid affecting Fu Xuemei, who was in seclusion forming her core.


    ng! Crack!


    On the other side, Bai Ling Immortal took the opportunity to activate her Invisible Sword treasure, severing one of He Yuanwu¡¯s supreme-grade attack weapons.


    "I should have prepared more supreme-grade attacking weapons," He Yuanwu muttered, his face gloomy.


    A typical Fake-Dan Immortal would have few magical weapons in hand. He had prepared two supreme-grade attacking weapons, which were already considered more than most.


    Xiang Jinglong, having weaker foundations, only had one supreme-grade attack weapon, with the other two being for defense and utility.


    "Little Cheng, I can¡¯t hold on much longer; I am afraid I have to retreat back into the formation to defend," Bai Ling Immortal transmitted to Lan Chang''an.


    This woman, who appeared to be in her thirties or forties, was drenched in fragrant sweat, her face slightly pale. She had already taken several pills midway through the battle.


    The key issue was the consumption of her mental strength, which caused her spiritual aura to dim.


    "Alright, I¡¯ll use the talismanic treasure to cover you, Aunt Ling," Lan Chang''an nodded.


    He activated the talismanic treasure in his hand, transforming it into a violet orb that once again cast down a formidable beam of violet light upon Xiang Jinglong.


    "Here ites again!" Xiang Jinglong cursed inwardly.


    Already injured, he struggled to wield his magical treasure against the talismanic treasure¡¯s attack, which was slightly stronger than that of a Fake-Dan. He couldn¡¯t hold out.


    He had no choice but to explode his mana, but this action aggravated his wounds, causing him to scream in pain.


    His injuries deepened slightly.


    Bai Ling Immortal sessfully retreated into the stone hall''s formation and reced her weapon with a supreme-grade sword, using it to attack while defending.


    "Aunt Ling, do you have any other superior second-rank puppets?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    He had two second-rank superior-grade puppets on him, but they did not belong to Junior Brother Cheng.


    "No," Bai Ling Immortal shook her head.


    "I have one more talismanic treasure and some talismans. You take them and use them first," Bai Ling Immortal said, taking out a needle-shaped talismanic treasure and a stack of talismans from her storage pouch.


    Earlier, Lan Chang''an''s control of the talismanic treasure¡¯s power and his timing of using them satisfied her.


    If she had given them to Fu Dong, he definitely wouldn¡¯t have achieved the same effect. Not only was his spiritual sense weak and his control over the talismanic treasure poor, but hisbat awareness was alsocking, making it difficult to utilize them effectively.


    "Thank you, Aunt Ling," Lan Chang''an''s eyes lit up. The needle-shaped talismanic treasure Bai Ling Immortal had given him was of the concealed weapon type and could still be used a few more times.


    The stack of talismans was mostly second-rank superior-grade, with two quasi-third-rank ones¡ªone for attack and one for defense.


    These may not have been all of Bai Ling Immortal''s resources, as she had previously fought Xiang Jinglong and He Yuanwu. It wouldn''t be surprising if she had a third-rank talisman as well.


    ...


    The ensuing battle turned out to be the most dangerous phase yet.


    Bai Ling Immortal temporarily switched back to the supreme-grade sword, only able to fend off one of the Fake-Dan Immortal¡¯s attacks.


    The attacks from the other Fake-Dan had to be shared by Lan Chang''an, Fu Dong, and the second-rank formation.


    In the end, Lan Chang''an was forced to exhaust the powerful Violet Pearl talismanic treasure.


    He used the remaining talismanic treasure attacks, including the quasi-third-rank talismans, all against Xiang Jinglong.


    "Ugh!" Xiang Jinglong vomited blood during the exchange, his pale face contorting slightly.


    He gazed at Lan Chang''an with a look of pure hatred and murderous intent.


    During this time, Lan Chang''an secretly consumed a "Blood Yang Pill," greatly boosting his mid-Foundation Establishment mana. With the help of the Hundred Illusions Mask¡¯s aura concealment, he managed to prevent Bai Ling Immortal from noticing anything unusual.


    He had the advantage of spiritual sense, and the power of the supreme-grade magic weapon he yed was no less powerful than that of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Brat with the surname Cheng! I¡¯ll remember you!" Xiang Jinglong¡¯s injuries were severe, and he had consumed too much energy. He retreated to the back to recuperate.


    He Yuanwu had no choice but to halt the attack and join him in sitting down to recover his mana.


    "No need to rush! Bai Ling Immortal used a secret technique, and her mental strength will be slow to recover from depletion. She¡¯s now only slightly stronger than an ordinary Fake Dan. Junior Brother Cheng only has one talismanic treasure left, and it¡¯s not as powerful as the previous one," He Yuanwu remarked, confident in their ultimate victory in a war of attrition.


    Only half a day had passed.


    Fu Xuemei wasn¡¯t going toplete her core formation anytime soon.


    "Fellow Daoist He, look at the Core Formation phenomenon in the sky; it¡¯s progressing faster than we expected," Xiang Jinglong, his face pale, raised his eyes.


    The spiritual cloud in the sky had expanded to cover two or three li and was now beginning to contract.


    He Yuanwu''s expression tightened, but he suddenly threw his head back andughed:


    "Haha! Junior Sister, are you hastily speeding up the core formation process? Are you not nning to form a True Dan?"


    From the original signs, Fu Xuemei seemed to be forming a Fake-Dan steadily, with a slight chance of forming a True Dan. But if she elerated the process in the final stages, it would inevitably affect the quality of the core.


    Fu Xuemei ignored He Yuanwu¡¯s taunts.


    "It¡¯s indeed speeding up," Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t need to look up; he could sense the change in Fu Xuemei¡¯s aura within the stone hall.


    However, he also noticed that this eleration wasn¡¯t entirely due to Fu Xuemei¡¯s own intentions.


    After the transaction, Fu Xuemei¡¯s state of mind seemed more whole, making the final process of core formation visibly smoother.


    ...


    A sense of unease began to gnaw at He Yuanwu.


    After resting for only an hour, and without fully recovering, he pulled the injured Xiang Jinglong andunched another attack on the stone hall.


    This time, the battle was even more brutal.


    Boom!


    The second-rank superior-grade formation was inevitably breached.


    Lan Chang''an secretly swallowed hisst Blood Yang Pill. All his supreme-grade magical weapons were destroyed, including those borrowed from Fu Xuemei and her brother.


    Bai Ling Immortal''s talismans were all exhausted.


    They were nearly out of resources.


    The needle-shaped talismanic treasure, which he had tested earlier, was more effective for concealed attacks, but its power wasn¡¯t on par with the Violet Pearl talismanic treasure.


    In direct attacks, it posed little threat to the Fake-Dan, as Xiang Jinglong, who had been wary of him, easily blocked it.


    The only advantage left was Lan Chang''an''s strong Evergreen mana, which was suitable for prolonged battles.


    The slight side effects of the Blood Yang Pill were mitigated by taking pills that replenished his blood and energy, so the impact wasn¡¯t significant.


    "Xiang Jinglong''s injuries are severe; if I use a treasured talisman with powerful attack capabilities, I might be able to kill him or at least render him incapable of fighting."


    Lan Chang''an weighed his options: should he push himself beyond his limits to avoid futureplications? Or should he "do his best" and protect Fu Dong?


    As the battle raged on, Lan Chang''an''s superficialbat abilities began to falter, and he was losing ground.


    The aftermath of the attacksnded on the stone hall, leaving several holes in its walls.


    Specks of dust settled upon the exquisitely beautiful woman, who resembled a solitary orchid in a secluded valley. Her aloof posture, seated in meditation, was like a serene statue, utterly still.


    "Cough! Pfft..."


    Suddenly, Xiang Jinglong''s injuries worsened, and he coughed up a mouthful of blood, causing his fierce momentum to falter slightly.


    Both He Yuanwu and Bai Ling Immortal were injured, though not severely.


    Lan Chang''an bore several wounds, some more severe than others, while Fu Dong had been protected well enough that his injuries were mostly superficial cuts and bruises.


    Both sides found themselves in a brief standoff. Amidst the deathly silence, the asional sound of Xiang Jinglong''s sporadic coughs were heard.


    Without the perfect coordination between Lan Chang''an and Bai Ling Immortal, who''d inflicted grave injury upon Xiang Jinglong, they wouldn''t have been able to hold out until now.


    Hidden within Lan Chang''an''s sleeve was a treasured talisman nurtured over many years. This treasured talisman possessed power equivalent to a blow from a True Dan Immortal, capable of determining the oue of the battle.


    Whoosh!


    From afar came a piercing cry as a wave of aura from a Fake-Dan level force approached.


    "It must be our reinforcements!" He Yuanwu and Xiang Jinglong exchanged nces, their spirits soaring with excitement.


    On the side of Huanglong Immortal City, a truce had been called and True Dan cultivators would not involve themselves in the matter of Fu Xuemei''s Core formation.


    However, Huanglong Mountain was weaker; its number of Fake-Dan was inferior to those of the hostile forces. Judging by probability, it seemed likely that they would arrive first.


    ...


    After several breaths, a white-robed old man with refined poise and a disheveled appearance entered their senses.


    "Eldest Senior Brother!"


    "Ji Yifeng!"


    He Yuanwu and Xiang Jinglong''s expressions changed dramatically, disbelief written on their faces.


    "Yifeng!" Bai Ling Immortal eximed, her eyes brimming with joy as she let out a long sigh of relief.


    At the same time, she was a little puzzled¡ªonly two people knew Fu Xuemei''s secret location outside the city limits where she was secretly going through Core Formation: herself and He Yuanwu. Even little Cheng only knew about the n, not the actual location.


    "Shameless traitor!" Ji Yifeng bellowed, summoning a feather fan magical weapon to rush forth aggressively.


    "Fellow Daoist He, this elder will take his leave first!" Without a second thought, Xiang Jinglong summoned a flying boat and escaped through the skies.


    In truth, he had been contemting retreat for some time now. But after investing so much effort at the beginning, seeing that results were finally within sight, and upon receiving He Yuanwu''s promise, he had persevered until now.


    "Eldest Senior Brother, you''rete!" He Yuanwu didn''t hesitate; he swiftly withdrew,ughing heartily. "Little Junoir Sister has failed to form a True Dan! This elder has achieved already his mission! Master has given it his all, yet his far-reaching ns have ultimatelye to naught..."


    From He Yuanwu''s perspective, since Fu Xuemei consumed an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill, and under the influence of external factors, was forced to hastily advance the Core Formation process, this could only result in the formation of a Fake Dan.


    ...


    Ji Yifeng frowned, his expression turning grim as he watched the two Fake-Dan cultivators leave. He did not pursue them.


    He stood there until their figurespletely disappeared.


    Ji Yifeng let out a muffled groan, staggering before copsing to the ground.


    "Yifeng!"


    Bai Ling Immortal eximed softly, catching him with concern.


    "Aunt Ling, I¡¯m fine, just some loss of vital energy and an old injury ring up." Ji Yifeng struggled to sit cross-legged, beginning to regte his breathing.


    "Senior Brother." Lan Chang''an stepped forward, greeting him with a nod but saying little else.


    "Junior Brother Cheng, thank you for your hard work." Ji Yifeng smiled with relief, expressing his gratitude.


    "Yifeng, how did you manage to find us?" Bai Ling Immortal asked.


    "I wasn¡¯t aware of Master¡¯s n beforehand. However, I had some knowledge of this hidden vein from when it was discovered years ago."


    A slight smile yed on Ji Yifeng''s lips.


    "Most of the Fake-Dan cultivators went south to intercept or headed towards other immortal cities. Master patiently confronted those True Dans in Huanglong Immortal City, so I spected that Junior Sister¡¯s Core Formation location was probably not in a conventional ce."


    "However, it took a lot of effort to shake off the enemy¡¯s surveince, and I even had to fight someone along the way. After more than half a month, I finally made it here..."


    Upon hearing this, Bai Ling Immortal couldn¡¯t help but feel relieved.


    Since Ji Yifeng''s injuries hadn¡¯t stabilized, they didn¡¯t ask more questions.


    Bai Ling Immortal herself was also injured, her spirit severely depleted, so she closed her eyes to recuperate.


    "Aunt Ling, here is your talismanic treasure."


    Lan Chang''an took out the needle-shaped talismanic treasure, ready to return it to Bai Ling Immortal.


    "No need, you keep it for protection."


    Bai Ling Immortal responded faintly without opening her eyes.


    "I¡¯ll head to a nearby cave to catch some wild game to replenish Aunt Ling¡¯s and Eldest Senior Brother¡¯s vitality." Lan Chang''an smiled respectfully and retreated.


    "Don¡¯t go too far." Bai Ling Immortal reminded him.


    She opened her eyes, watching Lan Chang''an''s departing figure towards the nearby mountain, a contemtive expression on her face.


    ...


    Two hourster.


    "Aunt Ling! Brother Cheng went nearby to hunt, but he still hasn¡¯t returned." Fu Dong reported with an anxious expression.


    "Let him go."


    Bai Ling Immortal sighed softly, as if she had expected this.


    Hearing this, Fu Dong fell into deep thought,ing to a realization.


    Junior Brother Cheng likely made a deal with Fu Xuemei and was perhaps worried about her settling scorester. Now that the Core Formation was not yetplete and both Bai Ling Immortal and Ji Yifeng were recuperating from their injuries, it was the perfect time to slip away.


    ...


    A dayter.


    The spiritual energy cloud above the stone hall slowly dissipated.


    Soft rays of light and faint celestial music surrounded the hall.


    Whoosh!


    A powerful and solid Core power surged forth, making the two Fake-Dan cultivators outside feel an invisible pressure.


    "This spiritual pressure, is it a True Dan?"


    Ji Yifeng raised his eyebrows in surprise and joy.


    "It¡¯s much stronger than a Fake Dan, but..."


    Bai Ling Immortal closed her eyes, sensing for a moment, and then sighed with a hint of regret:


    "The Core power isn¡¯t pure enough, solid but not refined. It might be a low-grade True Dan."

 Chapter 160: Unwelcome Guest Comes to the Door

    Chapter 160: Unwee Guest Comes to the Door


    ck Fog Mountain Range, on a hill ten li away.


    Lan Chang''an gazed at the dissipating Core Formation phenomenon in the distance, his face showing no signs of emotion, though his eyes were deep in thought.


    For an ordinary early-stage Core Formation cultivator, the range of their spiritual sense was about five li, with some newly advanced cultivators having slightly less.


    At this distance, there was no need to worry about being detected.


    "She barely managed to form a True Dan, but the quality of the core is far worse than mine in my previous life," Lan Chang''an concluded,paring it to his own Core Formation experience from his past life.


    In his previous life, the True Dan that Lan Chang''an had formed was of decent quality, ranking in the middle range.


    Based on his observations, Fu Xuemei''s True Dan was likely of the low tier, ranking at the bottom.


    This oue was slightly better than he had expected.He had originally estimated that there was a high probability she would end up with a Fake Dan. This was mainly because too many unfavorable factors had stacked against Fu Xuemei.


    She was only at the early stage of the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, her cultivation was slightlycking.


    The inferior Crystal Condensation Pill she took contained many impurities, which negatively impacted the quality of her core.


    The external threats from the Fake Dan Immortals forced her to hasten thetter half of the core formation process, furtherpromising the core''s quality.


    The entire Core Formation process took just over half a month.


    "This woman likely had an additional ordinary Core Formation spiritual item that slightly improved the quality of her core."


    "Moreover, afterpleting the transaction, her state of mind seemed to improve, making thetter half of the core formation process smoother."


    From this, Lan Chang''an deduced that Fu Xuemei probably didn¡¯t harbor any resentment or develop a knot in her heart over the transaction.


    But a wise man avoids standing under a crumbling wall. Before Fu Xuemei couldplete her core formation, he had found an excuse to leave.


    The injured and weakened Bai Ling Immortal might have noticed something amiss, but she chose not to expose or confront it.


    "Even with an earth spiritual root, her chances of reaching Nascent Soul in the future are slim," Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly, retracting his gaze.


    At the Core Formation Realm, the influence of spiritual root aptitude on cultivation diminishes, while foundation and opportunity be increasingly important.


    The quality of the core is a crucial reflection of one''s foundation; it significantly impacts cultivation speed and potential.


    Normally, those with earth spiritual roots and heaven spiritual roots have a stronger foundation before Core Formation, often outpacing those with ordinary spiritual roots.


    They usually advance decades faster.


    During cultivation, they are less reliant on pillspared to those with ordinary spiritual roots, and their bodies have greater potential.


    Of course, even the worst True Dan was worlds apart from a Fake Dan.


    A True Dan allows one to continue progressing on the path of cultivation, with a slim chance of reaching the Dao.


    However, those who form a Fake Dan are likely to remain stuck at the early stage of Core Formation for life, with no potential for advancement unless they encounter a great opportunity.


    Fake Dans are not recognized by many True Dan cultivators.


    In ancient times, when the world''s environment was much more favorable and great cultivators were numerous, this stage was only considered half a step towards Core Formation, unworthy of the title of Immortal.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an''s goal was to form a high-tier True Dan.


    The reason he doesn¡¯t insist on forming an "Immortal Golden Dan" is that the process of core formation still falls within the Foundation Establishment Realm, where the influence of the spiritual root was significant.


    Heaven spiritual roots may ensure a smooth formation of a True Dan, but even they had no guarantee of achieving a Golden Dan.


    For those with spiritual roots below heaven grade, forming a Golden Dan requires at least a superior quality Crystal Condensation Pill and various Core Formation spiritual items.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an distanced himself from the direction of Fu Xuemei¡¯s core formation, simultaneously staying alert to avoid encounters with the injured He Yuanwu and Xiang Jinglong, especially thetter.


    Due to Lan Chang''an''s deliberate targeting earlier, Xiang Jinglong harbored a great deal of resentment and murderous intent.


    Fortunately, Xiang Jinglong''s enmity was directed at Junior Brother Cheng, not Lan Chang''an himself.


    "Hmm, this area seems to be directly north of ''Wuqi Mountain,'' but at some distance," Lan Chang''an judged his geographical location based on information provided by the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Fu Xuemei''s Core Formation took within the ck Fog Mountain Range, northwest of Huanglong Immortal City.


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an took a slightly circuitous route to leave the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    On his way back to Wuqi Mountain, he adjusted the "Hundred Illusions Mask," shedding the identity of Junior Brother Cheng, changed his clothing, and assumed the appearance of an ordinary Foundation Establishment youth.


    The elderly identity he had used in Huanglong Immortal City to sell the quasi-third-rank Forbidden Breaking Talisman was erased and reced.


    The identity of Junior Brother Cheng would be temporarily retained.


    As for Junior Brother Cheng''s corpse, naturally, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t carry it around while dealing with Fu Xuemei and the others.


    Before encountering Fu Dong, Lan Chang''an had already cremated and buried it, erecting an unmarked tombstone.


    This prevented the body from being left to rot in the wilderness and torn apart by demonic beasts.


    As a "scavenger" passing by, he had done more than enough.


    "This trip to Huanglong Immortal City settled old grudges, earned a standard Crystal Condensation Pill, and the needle-shaped talismanic treasure," Lan Chang''an reflected on his gains as he made his way back, feeling quite content.


    Junior Brother Cheng had been expelled from the mountain for years, and his rtionships were distant. Lan Chang''an had been cautious and spoke little, so neither Bai Ling Immortal nor Fu Xuemei seemed to have noticed anything amiss at the time.


    Even if they realized something was offter, a person''s appearance and aura couldn¡¯t fool anyone, and there were no major ws in the general direction.


    "Junior Brother Cheng, after obtaining the ''Crystal Condensation Pill,'' would likely fear trouble from Fu Xuemei or Huanglong Mountain and choose to hide his identity and flee to a distant ce. Even if he managed to form a Fake Dan, he wouldn''t be much of a threat..."


    Therefore, Junior Brother Cheng''s disappearance after the fact wouldn¡¯t seem abrupt.


    If he were unlucky, Junior Brother Cheng could have been killed and robbed on the way by He Yuanwu or Xiang Jinglong. Such things weren¡¯t unheard of.


    ...


    After flying for four or five days, with a few hundred li left to Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an slowed his speed, intending to wait until midnight to quietly re-enter Little Turtle Peak, and sync with his simted aura and appearance of the Illusory Truth Talisman.


    At that moment...


    He sensed the aura of a Fake Dan Immortal flying in from the north.


    That Fake Dan aura felt somewhat weak and familiar to Lan Chang''an.


    Soon, a sturdy middle-aged Fake Dan cultivator in loose robes flew over from several li away.


    "Xiang Jinglong?" Lan Chang''an quickly hid in a corner, activating the Evergreen Technique to conceal his aura.


    Xiang Jinglong didn¡¯t bother concealing his Immortal-level aura as he flew straight towards Wuqi Mountain.


    "What''s he doing at Wuqi Mountain?" Lan Chang''an furrowed his brows in confusion.


    It didn¡¯t seem like a sneak attack or robbery, otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be acting so openly.


    Lan Chang''an maintained a distance of over ten li, discreetly following.


    Xiang Jinglong flew for several hundred li, swaggering his way into Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an waited outside for a moment but didn¡¯t hear any sounds of battle.


    He moved closer and merged his consciousness with the second life of the Nine Seal Stele, enhancing his spiritual sense for a quick scan.


    "Cut the crap! Bring out your best healing medicine, and I won¡¯t shortchange you," Xiang Jinglong said impatiently in the cave-dwelling on Little Pill Peak.


    Ye Fei smiled cautiously, carefully attending to him, and took out his prized healing medicine to help Xiang Jinglong recover.


    "Make me avish feast. Call in your beautiful concubines and dancing girls to keep me entertained and relieve some stress," Xiang Jinglong ordered, sitting arrogantly in the main hall.


    "Immortal Xiang, it¡¯s not advisable to drink and indulge in pleasures while you''re healing..." Ye Fei kindly advised.


    His mansion did indeed have some servant girls and beautiful concubines for entertainment, which Xiang Jinglong had detected with his spiritual sense.


    "Noisy!" Xiang Jinglong¡¯s eyes red, his gaze intimidating.


    The spiritual pressure from a Fake Dan cultivator made Ye Fei''s face flush, and he quickly apologized, bowing and giving orders.


    An unwee guest arrived, and with the situation stronger than the man, he could only swallow his pride and endure in silence.


    Xiang Jinglong was indeed in a foul mood.


    During the battle at Huanglong Mountain, he had joined the opposing side, hoping to fish in troubled waters, gain some benefits, and perhaps even settle an old grudge from when he was framed and schemed against years ago.


    In the end, aside from a meager reward, he didn¡¯t gain anything substantial.


    Not only did he fail to bring down Huanglong Mountain, but he also ended up severely injured.


    To guard against He Yuanwu possibly turning against him, Xiang Jinglong remained vignt and parted ways.


    After leaving the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    He discovered that Wuqi Mountain wasn¡¯t too far away, and he knew there was a decent pharmacist on the mountain. So he decided toe here to heal and indulge in some pleasures along the way.


    ...


    Seeing the situation on Little Pill Peak and confirming that Ye Fei wasn¡¯t in any immediate danger, Lan Chang''an calmly circled back to Little Turtle Peak under the cover of night.


    He pretended to continue his seclusion and didn¡¯te out.


    Before long, two transmission talismans flew out from Little Pill Peak, heading towards Little Turtle Peak and Xiao Pan Peak.


    The maidservant, Lan Rou, ced the transmission talisman on the door of the secret room.


    Lan Chang''an cast a spell, controlling the restrictions, he retrieved the transmission talisman.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Immortal Xiang, who is a guest at little brother''s residence, invites you and Fairy Shi toe over for a drink and to discuss some matters," came Ye Fei''s slightly helpless voice from the transmission talisman.


    Lan Chang''an put down the transmission talisman, deep in thought.


    "Xiang Jinglong has a poor reputation. Although he¡¯s still heavily injured, he¡¯se to Wuqi Mountain to recuperate. He might not have murderous intent, but he surely doesn¡¯t have good intentions either..."


    Considering the setbacks Xiang Jinglong faced in the Huanglong Mountain incident, Lan Chang''an could roughly guess his intentions.


    Lan Chang''an sat quietly in his mansion for a moment.


    Not long after, Fairy Shi Manrong from Xiao Pan Peak flew over to discuss the situation with Lan Chang''an.


    At this point, Lan Chang''an had been in seclusion for some time, but without a breakthrough in cultivation, it wouldn¡¯t be wise to continue pretending.


    Moreover, the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain had always worked closely together for mutual benefit.


    If a Fake Dan Immortal insisted on inviting, it would be difficult for a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator like him to refuse outright or escape.


    If he allowed the other party to perceive disrespect or arrogance, it could give them an excuse to cause trouble, which would be problematic.


    Until he reached thete Foundation Establishment stage, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t easily give up the quiet and suitable spiritual vein site on Little Turtle Peak.


    "Fairy Shi," Lan Chang''an greeted as he stepped out of his mansion and discussed the situation with Shi Manrong.


    Xiang Jinglong was indeed severely injured. His visit to Wuqi Mountain, though technically as a guest, was a form of coercion, given his status as a Fake Dan Immortal.


    Shi Manrong remained rtively calm, likely confident in her position on Wuqi Mountain, her considerablework, and her life-saving methods.


    Lan Chang''an, feigning a slight nervousness, followed Shi Manrong to the cave mansion on Little Pill Peak.


    ...


    In the main hall of the cave mansion.


    Xiang Jinglong sat with a petite female cultivator in the Qi-Refining stage in his right arm, and a coquettish woman in a gauzy dress nestled by his left, serving him wine and food.


    "Junior Lan Chang''an greets Immortal Xiang," Lan Chang''an cupped his hands and said.


    Shi Manrong also bowed slightly in greeting.


    Xiang Jinglong''s eyes brightened as he looked at the elegant and graceful Fairy Shi.


    "Haha! It''s been many years, Fairy Shi and your charm has only grown," he said, gently pushing aside the two women who paled inparison to the one in front of him.


    The petite female cultivator he was holding was caught off guard and nearly tumbled as she scrambled to get up.


    "Fairy Shi,e, sit by me, let''s catch up," Xiang Jinglongughed heartily, enthusiastically waving her over.


    "Immortal Xiang, you¡¯ve be a Fake Dan Immortal, while I¡¯m just a withered flower, unworthy of such honor," Shi Manrong smiled lightly, maintaining her distance and sitting on the far end.


    Xiang Jinglong looked a bit disappointed but didn¡¯t press the matter.


    His gaze then shifted to Lan Chang''an, a smile curling on his lips.


    "Little friend Lan, we haven''t seen each other since we parted in that secret realm years ago."


    "After so many years, I¡¯m surprised Immortal Xiang still recognizes me," Lan Chang''an responded, feigning surprise.


    "Come, sit by me. I¡¯ve been wanting to catch up with you. Someone of your age and determination to reach Foundation Establishment certainly deserves this honor," Xiang Jinglong said, motioning him over.

 Chapter 161: A Quick Escape

    Chapter 161: A Quick Escape


    Coming from a Fake-Dan Immortal, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t refuse after such an invitation and took a seat next to Xiang Jinglong.


    Xiang Jinglong evidently did not recognize that the "Junior Brother Cheng" who had severely screwed him over earlier was actually the Lan Chang''an sitting before him. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been so polite and cordial.


    The three peak masters apanied Xiang Jinglong to the banquet, and the atmosphere gradually became more rxed.


    This uninvited guest did not seem toe with the intention of using force but gradually revealed the purpose of his visit.


    Xiang Jinglong''s sharp eyes asionally nced at Fairy Shi, showing some interest. Thetter maintained politeness and distance, neither warm nor cold.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I heard you''re a second-rank superior-grade talisman master. Talents like you are rare across the Liang Kingdom," Xiang Jinglongplimented as he looked at Lan Chang''an.


    "Xiang Immortal tters me. I only barely qualified in the past two years," Lan Chang''an replied modestly.


    "Ah, in the past couple of years, the prices of talisman materials have noticeably increased. High-quality talismans are hard toe by, so I imagine Fellow Daoist Lan must be making quite a profit," Xiang Jinglong remarked, revealing a hint of his true intentions.Hearing this, Lan Chang''an felt as though Xiang Jinglong was finally getting to the point.


    "I¡¯m trying to purchase some high-quality talismans for my juniors, but they¡¯re incredibly scarce. I assume you have some stock, little friend Lan. Would you be willing to sell some?" Xiang Jinglong''s tone was friendly, apanied by a smile.


    "How many talismans does Xiang Immortal want? What grade are you looking for?" Lan Chang''an asked calmly.


    Not far away, Ye Fei nced at him, his eyes filled with bitterness.


    Lan Chang''an understood the look well.


    Xiang Jinglong had previously received free healing at Little Pill Peak, taking many precious medicinal herbs without paying. Now, calling over Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi as well, he wanted to enjoy a full course of free food, free gifts, and freepany¡ªall without paying a dime.


    "Not too many¡ªabout a hundred second-rank mid-grade talismans would be ideal. Even a few dozen would suffice," Xiang Jinglong grinned, revealing his white teeth.


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself that this man had quite the appetite, though it seemed like he was just throwing out an outrageous demand to have leeway to negotiateter.


    Lan Chang''an could roughly guess what was going on in Xiang Jinglong¡¯s mind.


    During the Huanglong Mountain battle, he had gained nothing from his gamble, was severely injured, and even lost some healing medicine. After a few years of nning for Fake-Dan, and purchasing a magical treasure, his funds were tight.


    Passing by Wuqi Mountain, he wanted to make up for his "losses" and lift his spirits.


    If it were any other two or three Foundation Establishment cultivators, they would have no choice but to pay up and consider it a protection fee.


    "Xiang Immortal, I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll be disappointed. I already sold all my second-rank talismans a year ago to Miss Shen of the Tengxing Merchant Association," Lan Chang''an replied, feigning helplessness.


    "There really aren''t any?" Xiang Jinglong¡¯s sharp gaze bore into him.


    Though he didn''t exert spiritual pressure, the invisible psychological pressure was evident.


    He knew Lan Chang''an was making excuses. As a second-rank superior-grade talisman master, it was certain he¡¯d keep some good stock for personal use.


    "None," Lan Chang''an firmly stated. "Several of my sect friends have the same need, and there''s no stock in the short term."


    "A year ago, Miss Shen from the Tengxing Merchant Association indeed came to Wuqi Mountain to sweep through our goods, leaving even my formations with no stock," Fairy Shi timely added, exining the situation.


    "That Miss Shen certainly ruined things for me," Xiang Jinglong¡¯s expression turned unpleasant, his tone cold as he tapped his wine cup lightly against the table, producing a crisp sound.


    Ye Fei¡¯s eyelids twitched.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong exchanged a nce, neither showing any panic.


    Beforeing, Shi Manrong had mentioned that if Xiang Jinglong resorted to force, she had the means to hold him off for a while. In Wuqi Mountain, as long as they retreated to Little Pan Peak, they could use the formations to fend off a Fake-Dan Immortal.


    If Lan Chang''an also had some methods, there was no need to fear excessively.


    Xiang Jinglong wasn¡¯t the type to grantly vite rules like a demonic cultivator. The likelihood of him acting openly was low.


    The three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain were no pushovers.


    Two of them had significant reputations and connections, with many loose cultivators dependent on the mountain.


    A Fake-Dan Immortal, alone and injured, couldn¡¯t kill everyone to keep secrets, not unless Xiang Jinglong was unafraid of being hunted by the sects and living in the shadows for the rest of his life.


    ...


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s gaze swept over Fairy Shi and Lan Chang''an, confirming their firm stance andck of intention to concede.


    "Fine, I¡¯ll take it up with Miss Shen from Tengxing Merchant Associationter," he said with a forcedugh, sighing and showing no further signs of pressure.


    Lan Chang''an inwardly chuckled, having anticipated Xiang Jinglong¡¯s moves.


    It had been just over ten days since Fu Xuemei formed her Core, and Xiang Jinglong¡¯s injuries had not yet fully healed.


    His main goal was to heal and gather medicine to speed up his recovery, and he likely didn¡¯t want to create additional problems. At most, he would try to extort some benefits, but if that failed, he¡¯d leave it at that without any losses.


    As long as he didn¡¯t go too far, the various powers wouldn¡¯t easily hunt down a Fake-Dan Immortal.


    The banquet atmosphere soon returned to normal.


    Ye Fei¡¯s gaze carried a hint of resentment. It was clear now that he had been the one who suffered the most.


    Earlier, Xiang Jinglong had scared him into handing over all sorts of precious medicines and even letting his beautiful concubines and maid serve him for free.


    "Xiang Immortal, you mentioned earlier that you participated in the attack on Huanglong Mountain. What¡¯s the current situation in Huanglong Immortal City? How long will the conflictst?" Lan Chang''an asked after toasting a cup of wine, probing for information.


    The stability of the surrounding regions was directly rted to the livelihood of Wuqi Mountain¡¯s craftsmen.


    "Ah, heroes from all sides gathered, and they nearly destroyed Huanglong Mountainpletely," Xiang Jinglongmented after downing a cup of spirit wine.


    "After the battle at Huanglong Mountain, the situation in the Immortal City stabilized once the Core Formation cultivators ceased hostilities. Several Core Formation experts reached an agreement, and whether Fu Xuemei can sessfully form a Core will determine if Huanglong Mountain¡¯s lineage can continue to control Huanglong Immortal City..."


    "Even if Fu Xuemei barely seeded in forming her Core, the decline of Huanglong Mountain will be hard to reverse," Xiang Jinglong added with a confident smile.


    "Why is that?" Ye Fei asked, intrigued.


    "First, during the recent battle, Huanglong Immortal consumed a secret medicine, overextending his life force at a great cost. It¡¯s likely he has shortened his lifespan by a significant amount again. We Fake-Dan cultivators estimate that his lifespan is less than ten years, but not more than twenty years."


    "Second, Fu Xuemei¡¯s Core formation quality is among the poorer ones among True Dan, and even though she is a genius with an earth spirit root, her progress in Core Formation cultivation will not be smooth," Xiang Jinglong, as a Fake-Dan Immortal, revealed some key information.


    ...


    The next morning, the air was cool.


    Xiang Jinglong had already left Wuqi Mountain without a trace.


    "That guy enjoyed a free meal and made a quick getaway," Lan Chang''an remarked as he stepped out of his cave and nced in a certain direction.


    Only he knew the exact time Xiang Jinglong had left Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an had considered ambushing the injured Xiang Jinglong on the way, using talisman treasures together with his magic treasure prototype, he estimated at least a seventy percent chance of sess.


    But he quickly dismissed the thought.


    He already had the Crystal Condensation Pill and could continue his cultivation steadily step-by-step. There was no need to create unnecessaryplications.


    More importantly, he had no real enmity with Xiang Jinglong.


    When Xiang Jinglong had formed his Core, he had at least given Lan Chang''an a few mid-grade spirit stones as a token.


    "Hmm, he¡¯s really gone..."


    That day, Lan Chang''an asionally closed his eyes, his mind merging with the Nine Seal Stele¡¯s second life, enhancing his senses to confirm that no one was secretly spying on him.


    ...


    A monthter, Lan Chang''an turned 120 years old.


    By this time, the situation in Huanglong Immortal City had fully stabilized.


    Fu Xuemei sessfully formed her Core and returned to Huanglong Mountain. With the support of her master, Huanglong Immortal, she began taking control of Huanglong Mountain¡¯s authority.


    Through Zheng Centipede, Lan Chang''an obtained some insider information.


    After the battle, the Huanglong Immortal¡¯s faction had to give up some benefits and influence.


    Hengchuan Merchant Association and me Departing Hall¡¯s industries rooted themselves deeper in Huanglong Immortal City or expanded their scale.


    Fake-Dan forces like the Mo Family, who participated, only gained a small portion of the benefits, barely enough to cover their efforts.


    "As long as the situation is stable."


    At this stage, Lan Chang''an craved peaceful days for cultivation.


    Given enough time, he could smoothly advance to thete stage of Foundation Establishment, and then find a good ce to secretly challenge Core Formation Realm.


    ...


    Not long after the situation in Huanglong Immortal City stabilized.


    One day, an unexpected guest arrived at Little Turtle Peak.


    "This youngdy, please inform Talisman Master Lan that Fu Dong seeks an audience."


    The visitor was a young man in a cotton coat, with clear eyebrows and bright eyes.


    Lan Rou dared not neglect this Foundation Establishment cultivator. Since Fu Xuemei had begun to gain power in Huanglong Mountain, she had also heard of this man¡¯s name.


    Inside the cave.


    Fu Dong was granted permission to enter and saw a calm, gentle man in white, standing like an ancient tree deeply rooted for a long time.


    "I am Fu Dong. I''ve long admired Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s reputation."


    It was Fu Dong¡¯s first time meeting Lan Chang''an, and he was slightly stunned by thetter¡¯s youthful appearance and outstanding demeanor.


    But in the cultivation world, such things weren¡¯t unusual.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan has also heard of you." Lan Chang''an smiled, gesturing for Fu Dong to sit.


    Back then, Fu Dong, with his inferior spiritual root, advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage not long after Lan Chang''an.


    Now, Fu Dong¡¯s cultivation was still stuck at the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    This was the shackles of his poor spiritual root.


    Advancing to Foundation Establishment was already a small miracle. The difficulty was even greater than Li Erqing¡¯s advancement to the Fake-Dan stage.


    Lan Chang''an had heard that Fu Xuemei promised her master that after her brother advanced to Foundation Establishment, she would no longer forcefully assist him.


    The cultivation world is full of surprises. In the long history recorded, there were cases of cultivators with inferior spiritual roots advancing to Core Formation, and even to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    With immense luck or an extraordinary background, anything was possible.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, please ept my bow," Fu Dong took a deep breath, bent down, and knelt on the ground.


    "Fellow Daoist Fu, this is unnecessary," Lan Chang''an quickly supported him.


    He sensed that a Fake-Dan cultivator was outside Little Turtle Peak, possibly Fu Dong¡¯s bodyguard, who had just swept his spiritual sense over him.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, without that superior Foundation Establishment Pill, I might have already reached my lifespan''s limit," Fu Dong said sincerely.


    "Today, I¡¯m here for two reasons: to apologize and to express my deep gratitude."


    After speaking, he handed over a gift box.


    "Fellow Daoist Fu, there¡¯s no need to bring up the past. After all, I didn¡¯t lose anything, and thepensation your sister gave far exceeded what was necessary," Lan Chang''an said with a smile as he epted the gift box.


    After some polite exchanges, Fu Dong felt that Lan Chang''an had a good temperament and didn¡¯t seem like someone who bore grudges.


    There were many who held a grudge against Huanglong Mountain.


    As long as one didn¡¯t draw too much attention, no one would deliberately target a cultivator with average aptitude and low potential.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an had never shown any dissatisfaction with Huanglong Mountain over the decades.


    Only those with limitless potential, capable of enjoying ''thirty years east of the river, thirty years west of the river,'' would be treated with special care.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, when I learned the truth, I wanted to visit Water Moon Residence to apologize, but unfortunately, you had already moved..."


    Fu Dong recounted events from decades ago.


    "Later, I heard you moved to Wuqi Mountain, perhaps to enjoy some peace and quiet, away from the troubles of Huanglong, so I didn¡¯t disturb you."


    Only now did Lan Chang''an realize that he and Fu Dong had missed each other by a hair''s breadth decades ago.


    They were not actually meeting for the first time. Lan Chang''an, under the alias of Junior Brother Cheng, had dealt with Fu Dong before and knew his temperament.


    During their conversation, Fu Dong felt that he got along well with Lan Chang''an.


    Two hourster, Lan Chang''an saw Fu Dong out of the cave.


    The Fake-Dan cultivator who had been secretly protecting Fu Dong watched Lan Chang''an from afar and nodded silently.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, my sister asked me to convey a message: she still remembers the favor she owes you. If you ever encounter any difficulties, you can seek her out at Huanglong Mountain."


    "Alright, I¡¯ll remember that."


    Lan Chang''an watched Fu Dong leave.


    It wasn¡¯t until he confirmed that the Fake-Dan cultivator had also left that he returned to his cave and opened the gift box from Fu Dong.

 Chapter 162: The Truth Behind the Price Surge

    Chapter 162: The Truth Behind the Price Surge


    There were two items in the gift box.


    One was a jade slip, the other was a simple, ancient-looking talisman brush, colored in a muted greenish-gray.


    Lan Chang''an picked up the ancient talisman brush, feeling the mana flow smoothly through it, and nodded in approval.


    This was a quasi-third-rank talisman brush.


    Considering Lan Chang''an¡¯s mid-Foundation Establishment cultivation and his recent achievement as a second-rank superior-grade talisman master, this gift was quite thoughtful.


    Inside the jade slip was aplete talisman master inheritance, part of which included information on third-rank talismans. It was essentially a partial inheritance of a third-rank talisman master.


    Both gifts were rted to the path of a talisman master, showing an understanding of his interests.


    In the eyes of ordinary people, Lan Chang''an¡¯s talent in talismans was decent, but his overall aptitude and potential were limited.Advancing to thete stage of Foundation Establishment would be difficult for him, and Core Formation seemed almost impossible.


    Thus, it was unrealistic to expect gifts rted to Core Formation.


    Such items were rare strategic resources for all the major forces in the Liang Kingdom, including Huanglong Mountain.


    ...


    More important than the gifts themselves, Lan Chang''an valued the significance of this meeting.


    "That Fake-Dan Immortal was likely not only there to protect Fu Dong, but also to secretly assess me onest time on behalf of the Huanglong Mountain leadership," Lan Chang''an pondered.


    After this encounter, Huanglong Mountain would finally be at ease regarding Lan Chang''an, no longer viewing him as a potential threat. In fact, in the future, they might even consider him as an ally.


    Moreover, the Fake-Dan cultivator¡¯s secret inspection would have ruled out any connection between Lan Chang''an and the "Junior Brother Cheng" persona.


    Lan Chang''an was indeed a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator. Given his age, he was considered mediocre within the Foundation Establishment stage.


    For Lan Chang''an, having one less potential enemy or threat meant he could continue cultivating in peace at Wuqi Mountain without worrying about being exposed. For the next several decades, he needed a stable environment for cultivation.


    "Given my talent and age, advancing to thete stage of Foundation Establishment at Wuqi Mountain might exceed some people''s expectations, but it wouldn¡¯t be a big deal. It¡¯s nothingpared to Fu Dong¡¯s achievement of reaching Foundation Establishment with his inferior spiritual root," Lan Chang''an mused about the future.


    Whether in the mundane world or the vast cultivation world, there are always a few cultivators who bloomte after years of umtion.


    For example, Lan Chang''an reached Foundation Establishment in his seventies, breaking a thousand-year record in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    This implies that a thousand years ago, and even in surrounding cultivation nations, there were simr or even more extraordinary individuals.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation speed had always been steady, progressing step by step, without any abnormal surges.


    Even if his cultivation advanced rapidly during a certain period, it would be seen as a normal small opportunity in the cultivation world.


    Secrets and risks are always rtive, depending on one''s strength, status, and background.


    If one day Lan Chang''an was to achieve Core Formation, it would be considered a secret and a significant opportunity among ordinary cultivators.


    But after forming his dan, looking at the neighboring cultivation nations, he can already be called a high-end fighting force, ordinary cultivators can only look up to him at that point.


    However, from the perspective of high-level cultivators or Nascent Soul True Monarchs, this would be seen as a normal opportunity.


    At their level, nearly every one of them had opportunities far beyond what is normal.


    ...


    In the blink of an eye, three years passed peacefully as Lan Chang''an cultivated on Little Turtle Peak.


    He was now 123 years old, and his cultivation had steadily progressed to the peak of the fifth level of the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    During these three years, the surrounding situation remained stable, with no major events urring within the Liang Kingdom.


    The security around Huanglong Immortal City improved significantly, regaining much of its former prosperity.


    The difference was that Huanglong Mountain, now far from its peak, was being constrained by various forces and merchant associations.


    The Mu family at Feiyue Lake had reduced internal strife and was thriving.


    Li Erqing¡¯s grandson, Mu Congren, sessfully established a branch outside rooted in the local area, and entered the right track of development.


    The entire Liang Kingdom seemed to be in a state of stability and prosperity.


    But recently, Lan Chang''an began to sense something amiss.


    Especially on this day, after sending off a cultivator from the "Tengxing Merchant Association" who hade to purchase resources.


    ...


    "Strategic materials are surging in price again, and the increase is beyond normal, even higher than during the chaos in Huanglong Immortal City," Lan Chang''an thought deeply.


    Logically, with the chaos in Huanglong Immortal City over and the regional situation stabilized, strategic materials should be decreasing in price.


    "Could this be rted to the cultivation war in the neighboring countries?"


    The overall stability of the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world led Lan Chang''an to consider the situation in neighboring countries.


    In the past two years, there hadn¡¯t been any major battles in the neighboring cultivation world, nor had Nascent Soul True Monarchs directly shed.


    The battlefield in Feng Kingdom was in a stalemate.


    The two Nascent Soul True Monarchs of the Golden Sun Sect had previously engaged in a nned battle with Chu Tianfeng, a mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator from Yan Kingdom. Although they were one step behind on the chess board, fighting on home turf with a defensive stance meant they wouldn''t lose much.


    In the short term, within the next few years, the southern war in Feng Kingdom was unlikely to spill over into the Liang Kingdom.


    Unless...


    Lan Chang''an wondered if he had missed some crucial intelligence known only to the higher-ups.


    "Small signs often indicaterger trends. The continued surge in war materials¡¯ prices must have a hidden reason!"


    Lan Chang''an trusted his intuition and judgment.


    After some thought, he decided to write a letter to Zhang Tieshan.


    Two months ago, in a reply from Zhao Siyao, she had no definitive information or conclusions.


    Since merchant associations were typically well-informed, Lan Chang''an initially wanted to inquire with Shen Bixin. However, due to low stock in recent years, the youngdy had been too busy to visit Wuqi Mountain personally.


    Shen Bixin had started purchasing materials at high prices as early as during the chaos in Huanglong Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an spected that the higher-ups in the merchant association might have obtained information through their channels, predicting that the Liang Kingdom would soon be embroiled in war.


    Otherwise, their high-priced purchases back then wouldn¡¯t have made sense without clear profit margins.


    It was sort of a risky game. If they lost the gamble, they would lose all their hard-earned money.


    But the fact was, Shen Bixin¡¯s Tengxing Merchant Association had made the right bet.


    ...


    Two monthster, Lan Chang''an received a letter from Zhang Tieshan.


    It seemed Zhang Tieshan knew something, but his letter was vague, directly stating that it was hard to say.


    He personally guessed that war wouldn''t affect the Liang Kingdom for another decade or so, advising Lan Chang''an not to worry too much.


    Lan Chang''an read between the lines.


    Zhang Tieshan didn¡¯t dismiss the possibility of a cultivation war in the Liang Kingdom.


    In his letter, he implied that it wasn¡¯t appropriate to discuss it in writing. To obtain more urate information, a face-to-face discussion would be best.


    Having experienced two lifetimes, Lan Chang''an valued the intelligence of the big picture in the upper echelons of the cultivation world. This way, even if he were cultivating in peace, he could be prepared and n ahead.


    Unless absolutely necessary, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want to leave.


    A stable spiritual vein field that could generate ie was hard toe by. Even if he had to leave, daily cultivation and advancement would still require a spiritual vein field.


    If the entire Liang Kingdom, or even the surrounding regions, were engulfed in war, where could he find another spiritual vein field to cultivate in?


    Spirit stones and pills could only support short-term cultivation during travel; they couldn''t be relied upon long-term.


    The tolerance and side effects of pills don¡¯t need further exnation.


    If one relied on spirit stones for daily cultivation, it would dull the cultivator¡¯s sensitivity to the natural spiritual energy of heaven and earth.


    The essence of cultivation is toprehend the Dao, enhance one¡¯s life essence, and bing attuned with heaven and earth.


    Relying solely on wealth and pills might indeed rapidly advance cultivation at certain stages, but it¡¯s hard to reach higher realms in the cultivation world this way.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an left Wuqi Mountain and flew towards Jin Yun Valley.


    For the past few decades, he had visited Jin Yun Valley every two to three years.


    Zhao Siyao and her disciple, Zhang Tieshan, and Lin Lu would sometimes visit Wuqi Mountain during their missions or trips to Huanglong Immortal City, purchasing high-quality talismans along the way.


    When Lan Chang''an arrived at Jin Yun Valley, Zhang Tieshan happened to be away on business. Zhao Siyao was also in seclusion recently.


    Lin Lu was free and personally received Lan Chang''an in his cave on the outer peak.


    Lin Lu wore a deacon''s robe, appearing in his forties or fifties, with a handsome yet slightly thin face, and a short beard on his chin.


    Lin Lu was a generation younger than Lan Chang''an, with only a twenty-year age difference.


    In reality, he was nearly a hundred years old, with descendants passed down in three or four generations.


    His cultivation had stagnated at the third level of Foundation Establishment for many years, with no signs of advancement. After exhausting his father¡¯s legacy and advancing to Foundation Establishment, Lin Lu¡¯s luck seemed to have run out.


    Lan Chang''an chatted with this nephew for a while, gaining insight into his situation.


    Lin Lu¡¯s aptitude was quite a bit worse than Zhao Siyao¡¯s, closer to a mid-grade spiritual root.


    As a deacon of the sect, he had to manage many mundane affairs, which also affected his cultivation. This, coupled with his unremarkable aptitude, had hindered his progress. Byparison, Zhao Siyao¡¯s disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er, advanced much more smoothly.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er, who reached Foundation Establishmentter, advanced to mid-Foundation Establishment two years ago. It took her only about twenty years to go from early to mid-Foundation Establishment.


    Having been through it himself, Lan Chang''an casually gave Lin Lu some advice on cultivation.


    When he killed Alchemist Hua, Lan Chang''an obtained two "Jade Clear Pills," which help break through bottlenecks to advance to mid-Foundation Establishment. Such breakthrough pills required sect contributions to exchange, with a long waiting list.


    He sold one to Lin Lu at market price.


    Lin Lu, who had a family, descendants, and disciples, was not well off.


    More than ten years ago, he had exchanged one "Jade Clear Pill," but failed to break through. After that, he no longer had the qualifications to exchange another, and his sect contributions were scarce. With his need to take care of his descendants and disciples, he was stretched thin.


    Lin Lu purchased the pill with spirit stones and two second-rank materials as coteral.


    One of these materials happened to be an auxiliary ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pill, which Lin Lu had originally nned to turn in to the sect for contributions.


    That material wasn¡¯t exclusively for the Youth Retaining Pill, so Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t worried about exposing his intentions.


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an had almost gathered all the materials for the Youth Retaining Pill, with only the final auxiliary ingredient remaining.


    ...


    The sect''s rule was not to amodate overnight guests.


    Using his authority as a deacon, Lin Lu arranged for Lan Chang''an to stay in a guest room at the foot of Jin Yun Valley.


    A few dayster, Zhang Tieshan returned to Jin Yun Valley. Informed promptly by Lin Lu, he immediately met with Lan Chang''an.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s cave was located in the inner peak.


    He held the position of grand deacon in the Law Enforcement Hall, second only to thew enforcement elder and a few Fake-Dan Immortals.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I''ve kept you waiting."


    Since advancing to Foundation Establishment, Zhang Tieshan¡¯s appearance has remained unchanged. His stern, slightly dark face now showed a friendly expression.


    "You¡¯re too kind. It was only a few days," Lan Chang''an replied, sitting down with Lin Lu.


    After some small talk, Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan discussed some past events and interesting stories.


    Lin Lu, as the junior, asionally chimed in withments and additional details.


    "After reading your letter, Fellow Daoist Lan, I had some doubts as well. It was only in the past few months, after speaking with an inner peak elder, that I arrived at a definitive answer," Zhang Tieshan said, getting to the point without avoiding Lin Lu.


    "Oh? What¡¯s the truth?" Lan Chang''an asked, showing interest.


    "The truth may not concern you much, Fellow Daoist Lan," Zhang Tieshan stroked his beard with a smile, then nced at Lin Lu.


    "But it might be a good opportunity for Nephew Lin to make some contributions."


    Lin Lu was taken aback, deep in thought.


    A sh of insight came to Lan Chang''an.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, are you referring to the south of the Liang Kingdom..."


    "Exactly." Zhang Tieshan nodded.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes flickered, his doubts finally resolved.


    The situation had developed in a way that slightly surprised him.


    He had initially thought that the Liang Kingdom might be passively drawn into the neighboring cultivation war.


    But the truth was that the upper echelons of the Liang Kingdom''s sects had decided to take the initiative,unching an attack from the north into the Feng Kingdom, seeking to profit from the chaos!

 Chapter 163: A Fragment of a Spiritual Treasure

    Chapter 163: A Fragment of a Spiritual Treasure


    As the saying goes, "An army marches on its stomach."


    The upper echelons of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects had thoughts of waging war on the Feng Kingdom. Any slight movement would inevitably lead to a surge in the prices of war supplies.


    Lan Chang''an spected that sects and other influential forces were likely already quietly stockpiling war materials.


    These major forces wouldn¡¯t seek out individuals or a specific merchant association to collect such resources. They had their own industries, guilds, and even their own developed immortal cities or medium torge marketces.


    However, whether these upper-echelon ns would truly be put into action was still uncertain a few years ago. After today''s conversation with Zhang Tieshan, Lan Chang''an received a definitive answer.


    The situation was better than he had anticipated. At the very least, the cultivation war would not take ce within the Liang Kingdom.


    There was even the potential to make another considerable profit.


    Back during the beast tide, Lan Chang''an had purchased a batch of materials at low prices and stockpiled many second-rank talismans.In the past few years, he had gradually sold off all materials below the second rank and made a substantial profit.


    The talismans could be stored for a longer period of time, and so far, Lan Chang''an still had quite a big stock of second-rank talismans on hand.


    During wartime, the price of materials would likely reach a century-high peak.


    "The Feng Kingdom''s cultivation culture is more prosperous, with vastnds and abundant resources. If we can invade that country, it would be an unprecedented opportunity for sects and even individual cultivators," Zhang Tieshan said, symbolically asking Lan Chang''an, "At that time, all major sects will heavily recruit willing loose cultivators. Fellow Daoist Lan, are you interested in participating?"


    Lan Chang''an understood that as an invader, if one seeded, they could umte wealth equivalent to several lifetimes.


    Plundering is always the fastest way to amass capital.


    "I cultivate a life-nurturing technique and have mediocre mana strength. How could I have such ambitions?" Lan Chang''an shook his head and sighed.


    He was content being an opportunist, earning a significant amount of spirit stones behind the scenes during the war.


    Zhang Tieshan wasn¡¯t surprised that Lan Chang''an declined.


    He had asked because he knew that Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t as simple as he appeared and that hisbat strength should be quite formidable within his level.


    When Lan Chang''an killed the Evil-Faced Flying Eagle years ago, he disyed exceptionalbat talent and also practiced body refinement.


    However, with Lan Chang''an¡¯s current progress in cultivation, reaching thete Foundation Establishment stage would be challenging, and forming a Core seemed almost impossible.


    If he could seize the opportunity to invade a neighboring country and plunder enough capital, he might have a chance at forming a Fake Dan.


    Zhang Tieshan then inquired about Lin Lu¡¯s thoughts.


    "Junior will consider it," Lin Lu responded without giving a definite answer.


    In fact, as a Foundation Establishment cultivator of the sect, he might be sent to participate in the neighboring country¡¯s war. If Lin Lu volunteered, it wouldn¡¯t be difficult. If he didn¡¯t want to go, he might not have the final say.


    After learning about the upper echelons¡¯ ns in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, Lan Chang''an had mostly aplished the purpose of his visit.


    They then chatted about lighter topics.


    Zhang Tieshan also gave Lin Lu some guidance on his cultivation.


    Lin Lu had the illusion that Zhang Tieshan¡¯s advice wasn¡¯t as beneficial as what Uncle Lan had given him earlier. Lan Chang''an¡¯s previous casual pointers seemed more targeted at his current predicament.


    "Uncle Lan, Uncle Zhang. Junior has gained something from today and ns to return to seclusion," Lin Lu said as he excused himself, leaving the two elders to continue their conversation.


    Zhang Tieshan didn¡¯t try to keep him, continuing his discussion with Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯re now a second-rank superior-grade talisman master. Do you have any high-quality talismans for sale?" Zhang Tieshan asked.


    During the preparation phase for war, Zhang Tieshan had a considerable demand for high-quality war supplies.


    As consumables, talismans that only require a small amount of mana to activate are always in high demand during cultivation wars, no matter the level of the cultivator.


    Buying from Lan Chang''an not only guaranteed quality but also ensured privacy.


    "With your cultivation level, Zhang Fellow Daoist, the talismans that might catch your eye would at least be second-rank superior-grade or higher. I don¡¯t have many of stock of those," Lan Chang''an said slowly, taking out a talisman box.


    Inside were seven second-rank superior-grade talismans, including offensive, defensive, escape, and utility types.


    Zhang Tieshan, at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, was at the eighth level and had outstandingbat strength among his peers.


    "Not bad," Zhang Tieshan nodded, satisfied with the quality of the talismans, and intended to purchase them all.


    "Can you craft quasi-third-rank or top-tier second-rank talismans?" He looked at Lan Chang''an with some anticipation.


    Quasi-third-rank corresponds to Fake-Dan level.


    Top-tier second-rank talismans are rare and considered premium products, they areparable to the full power of a peak Foundation Establishment spell.


    "You overestimate me, Fellow Daoist Zhang. I¡¯ve only been a second-rank superior-grade talisman master for a few years. Crafting top-tier second-rank talismans requires considerable cost," Lan Chang''an said with a sigh.


    Since Zhang Tieshan had brought it up, Lan Chang''an took out two top-tier second-rank talismans, one for defense and one for escape.


    In recent years, with the quasi-third-rank talisman brush gifted by Fu Dong, the probability of producing top-tier talismans had increased significantly.


    "Haha! I knew it! With your personality, you¡¯d definitely keep something special hidden," Zhang Tieshanughed as he epted the two top-tier second-rank talismans, clearly pleased.


    Due to the limitations of materials, cultivation level, and talent, third-rank talisman masters were exceedingly rare across the entire Liang Kingdom, especially due to material restrictions.


    To craft a third-rank talisman, one must use materials from key parts of a Core Formation Realm demonic beast, along with corresponding spirit ink and talisman brushes.


    As a result, top-tier second-rank or quasi-third-rank talismans were already the most valuable talismans avable on the market, and ordinary cultivators couldn¡¯t buy them without connections.


    On the eve of war, their rarity increased even more.


    Zhang Tieshan, wealthy and influential, spent several thousand of spirit stones, more than the cost of three supreme-grade magical weapons, to buy this batch of high-quality second-rank talismans.


    Lan Chang''an could sense that Zhang Tieshan¡¯s financial resources far surpassed those of his peers.


    In addition to his formidablebat strength, Zhang Tieshan was also a skilled second-rank artifact refiner.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, if you do participate in the war, you might need some expendable soldiers. Would you be interested in purchasing second-rank puppets?" Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind stirred, and he began to pitch his puppets.


    He had openly practiced puppet techniques on the side for decades. During the war, he nned to reveal his skills as a second-rank puppet master.


    Decades ago, before the opening of the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, he had privately sold puppets to Zhao Siyao.


    "The best would be second-rank mid-grade puppets," Zhang Tieshan said, contemting.


    When used well, puppets could act as an extra pair of hands in critical moments, helping cultivators share the risks.


    Puppets were even rarer than talismans of the same grade.


    Lan Chang''an took out five second-rank puppets, two mid-grade and three low-grade.


    Zhang Tieshan bought the two mid-grade puppets.


    One of them was a turtle puppet with exceptional defense, capable of withstanding a Foundation Establishmentte-stage cultivator for some time.


    After some thought, Zhang Tieshan also picked a flying-type second-rank low-grade puppet, which could serve as a flying mount in emergencies.


    Including the talismans, Zhang Tieshan spent over ten thousand spirit stones on Lan Chang''an¡¯s goods.


    Due to the rising prices of war supplies, the cost was much higher than usual.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s old puppet stock had now turned a profit.


    Through this transaction, both Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan gained a deeper understanding of each other¡¯s financial strength.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Zhang Tieshan escorted Lan Chang''an to outside the cave.


    Watching the departing figure in white, Zhang Tieshan returned to his cave, a thoughtful expression on his face, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.


    He raised his hand and lightly tapped his dantian three times.


    "Senior Artifact Spirit, over the years you¡¯ve absorbed a considerable amount of metallic essence, and your senses have sharpened. Have you detected anything unusual about Fellow Daoist Lan?" Zhang Tieshanmunicated with the fragment of the spiritual treasure deep within his sea of consciousness.


    "A wood-based cultivation technique, strong in vitality, capable of prolonging life."


    "There¡¯s also a fairly well-nurtured magical treasure prototype. He is slightly above average, I¡¯d say."


    A childish yet deliberately old-sounding voice came from the fragment of the spiritual treasure.


    "That¡¯s what you call slightly above average?" Zhang Tieshan¡¯s face twitched.


    Wood-based techniques that extend life are mostly third-rank and above, requiring significant sect contributions to exchange.


    Having a magical treasure prototype at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage already ces him above mostte Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "Don¡¯t make a fuss. Compared to the top sects of the Heaven Honoured Continent, such as the elite disciples of the Ethereal Sect or the Three Saints Temple in the Central State, you and this son aren¡¯t even worthy of carrying their shoes."


    "Senior Artifact Spirit speaks the truth," Zhang Tieshan agreed.


    ording to the spiritual treasure fragment, when it was whole, its past owners were at least in thete Nascent Soul Realm, or even in the Deity Transformation Realm. Even if there was some exaggeration, its knowledge far surpassed that of ordinary Nascent Soul True Monarchs.


    "Unless it¡¯s something important, don¡¯t disturb this artifact spirit!"


    "Hurry up and find more metallic spirit mines and treasures to help this artifact spirit recover more of its spirituality and locate other fragments."


    To minimize its energy consumption, the artifact spirit quickly fell back into a slumber.


    When it deliberately hid itself, even a Nascent Soul True Monarch would find it difficult to detect its existence.


    ...


    A few days after Lan Chang''an¡¯s departure.


    In a cave on the outer peak of Jin Yun Valley.


    The spiritual energy of heaven and earth stirred slightly, and a surge of mana rose, breaking through to the mid-Foundation Establishment stage.


    "Finally, after decades of stagnation, I¡¯ve seeded," Lin Lu opened his eyes, feeling much more cheerful.


    In the sect, Foundation Establishment cultivators are considered the backbone.


    Every breakthrough in a minor realm brings significant changes in status and treatment, especially when reaching thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    "All thanks to Uncle Lan¡¯s pointers and that Jade Clear Pill,''" Lin Lu thought gratefully.


    For Lan Chang''an, it might have been just a regr transaction and some casual advice for a junior. But for Lin Lu, it had helped him break through decades of stagnation.


    "My spiritual root aptitude isn¡¯t even mid-grade. I¡¯m considered subpar among Foundation Establishment cultivators."


    Since reaching the Foundation Establishment Realm, Lin Lu had felt the difficulty of cultivation. He had no opportunities of his own and was also burdened with sect duties.


    "If I don¡¯t take a gamble and venture out, I¡¯ll have no hope of ever forming a Fake-Dan. I might even struggle to break through to thete stage of the Foundation Establishment Realm."


    As he circted his mana to stabilize his realm, Lin Lu¡¯s gaze gradually grew determined as he cast his eyes towards the south of the Liang Kingdom.

 Chapter 164: War Profiteering

    Chapter 164: War Profiteering


    Since Zhao Siyao was in seclusion, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t visit her this time.


    After leaving Jin Yun Valley, he didn¡¯t immediately return to Wuqi Mountain. He nned to visit nearby marketces and immortal cities to see if he could purchase some materials and supplies at rtively low prices.


    The news of the sects¡¯ impending expedition wasn¡¯t known to the lower and middle levels of the cultivation world, even some of the higher echelons did not dare to be certain.


    Currently, the increase in material prices wasn¡¯t too drastic, and there was still some margin for profit.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s first stop was the "Five Peaks Market Town" south of Jin Yun Valley.


    Years ago, Lan Chang''an had visited the Five Peaks Market Town¡¯s "Hundred Fragrance Immortal Pavilion" with Li Erqing to enjoy a musical performance and had also helped Zhao Siyao repair a superior-grade magical weapon.


    This marketce was considered quiterge, ranking just below an immortal city.


    Lan Chang''an took the identity of an ordinary young man with the "Hundred Illusions Mask," and on top of that, he made slight adjustments to his appearance to add anotheryer of disguise.Maintaining the cultivation of a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, he received VIP treatment at therge shops in the Five Peaks Market Town.


    After half a day, Lan Chang''an purchased a batch of goods, primarily materials for talismans, pills, and puppets.


    While material prices had increased significantly, they hadn¡¯t risen as much as finished products.


    The supply shortage of various war supplies was also limited by the avability of skilled craftsmen, especially for the high-quality ones.


    The price transmission to materials had a slight dy. Once the news of the war was confirmed and materials became scarce, their prices would undoubtedly surge.


    During his shopping spree, Lan Chang''an also visited the "Spirit Herb Pavilion" at the Five Peaks Market Town.


    Years ago, on his first visit to the Five Peaks Market Town, Lan Chang''an had been secretly followed by the Spirit Herb Pavilion''s shopkeeper, who waster scared off by Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense transmission.


    After so many years, the shopkeeper hadn¡¯t advanced to Foundation Establishment and had long since passed away.


    After some inquiries, Lan Chang''an learned that one of the shopkeeper¡¯s descendants, ate Qi-Refining stage cultivator, now worked as a pharmacist at the Spirit Herb Pavilion.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t petty enough to hold a grudge.


    There was no need to go after the shopkeeper¡¯s descendants or the Spirit Herb Pavilion over a trivial incident from years ago.


    That would be making a mountain out of a molehill. After all, the shopkeeper had only set his sights on him and hadn''t acted on it.


    Half a day after Lan Chang''an¡¯s departure, an interesting story spread around the Five Peaks Market Town.


    It was said that several precious medicinal herbs stored in the Spirit Herb Pavilion had mysteriously gone missing, and the loss was quiterge, causing the owner to fly into a rage.


    Only some extremely tiny residues were left behind at the scene, and it was suspected that a mysterious spirit beast had snuck in and eaten them.


    ...


    Two thousand li away from the Five Peaks Market Town, Lan Chang''an was flying and nced at his spirit pet pouch.


    Inside, a plump orange-purple rat demon waszily stretching its limbs and letting out contented burps after feasting on the precious herbs.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but smile. The Earth Burrowing Rat had eaten more precious medicinal herbs in a single day than it had in the past few yearsbined.


    Ten dayster, Lan Chang''an arrived at the Zijing Immortal City on the west side of Jin Yun Valley.


    This immortal city, located near the Liang Kingdom¡¯s border, had trade rtions with the "Jing Kingdom" in the western region.


    The Jing Kingdom was a small cultivation country, with poor spiritual vein resources, and its most powerful cultivation force was only a Core Formation sect.


    The country bordered the northern branch of the ck Fog Mountain Range and was sandwiched between the Chen Kingdom and the Liang Kingdom.


    Although Zijing Immortal City was in a remote location, the value of materials there was slightly higher than in the Five Peaks Market Town.


    Lan Chang''an spected that therge forces in the immortal city were more sensitive to the winds of change.


    Some high-ranking members of certain merchant associations might have caught wind of the impending war, but they didn''t dare gamble too heavily.


    If the situation in the Feng Kingdom changed or the Liang Kingdom¡¯s top leaders abandoned the idea of war, those who had invested too much could lose everything.


    After his purchases in Zijing Immortal City, Lan Chang''an flew to Liaoyuan Immortal City, stopping briefly at the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake along the way.


    ...


    At the Mu Family, Lan Chang''an met with Li Erqing and Mu Bingyun.


    It had been many years since theyst saw each other, and Mu Bingyun had matured significantly, appearing to be in her mid-twenties. She now had the confident demeanor of a family patriarch and a Foundation Establishment female cultivator.


    Over the years, the Mu Family has grown steadily, expanding its industries and opening several shops in Bamboo Leaf Mountain, Five Peaks Mountain, and Huanglong Immortal City.


    Regarding the reason for the rise in material prices, Lan Chang''an hinted at it but didn¡¯t spell it out for them.


    Before leaving, Mu Bingyun transmitted a message, requesting to speak with Lan Chang''an privately to ask for guidance on cultivation and talisman-making.


    Lan Chang''an nced at the slender, elegant woman in a green dress, whose starry eyes shimmered with anticipation, reverence, and a hint of unspoken emotion.


    Citing his busy schedule, Lan Chang''an declined Mu Bingyun¡¯s request for a private conversation.


    By thekeside at Feiyue Lake, Mu Bingyun stood, slightly disappointed, watching the white-robed figure disappear into the distance.


    As she thought of something her master had told her on her deathbed, she clenched her delicate fists, and took a deep breath, trying to muster up the courage, only to be overwhelmed by confusion and frustration.


    Li Erqing, seeing the lonely figure by theke, couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    It was as if the image ovepped with someone from his memories.


    He couldn¡¯t help butment: The two most outstanding and beautiful women of the Mu Family couldn¡¯t capture that man¡¯s heart.


    ...


    After leaving Feiyue Lake, Lan Chang''an visited Bamboo Leaf Mountain briefly.


    The Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town had declined in status and was no longer as prosperous as it was during Lan Chang''an¡¯s first auction visit.


    The market¡¯s owners, the Maple Leaf Huang Family, now had two Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The original Foundation Establishment female cultivator, Huang Yingchun, had gradually distanced herself from herte-stage Foundation Establishment partner, who was said to be old and nearing the end of his lifespan. The partnership between the two sides was slowly fading.


    The materials Lan Chang''an sought had quality requirements, and his harvest at the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market was minimal.


    A monthter, Lan Chang''an continued to visit Liaoyuan Immortal City, Huanglong Immortal City, and other ces.


    Liaoyuan Immortal City had the highest prices, and Lan Chang''an reluctantly purchased some high-quality materials for talismans and puppets.


    In Huanglong Immortal City, besides ordinary demonic beast parts and pelts, other materials were also not cheap.


    Finally, afterpleting hisrge-scale purchases, Lan Chang''an returned to Wuqi Mountain. During his procurement trips, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t use his true identity.


    In truth, the eastern and southern regions of the Liang Kingdom, as well as areas north of the ck Fog Mountain Range, also hadrger markets and even immortal cities.


    However, with the continued rise in material prices, Lan Chang''an took advantage of the situation and only visited rtively nearby areas.


    ...


    A yearter.


    Lan Chang''an, now back in Wuqi Mountain, heard some rumors from the outside world.


    It was said that the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom was on the brink of war.


    The specific reasons varied.


    One of the most oundish rumors imed that the Endless Sect of Yan Kingdom had already forced Feng Kingdom to surrender, and it would be Liang Kingdom''s turn in two years.


    When the news of the war had spread so widely that even Lan Rou, his maid, knew about it, it was clear that it had bemon knowledge everywhere.


    Some uninformed low-level loose cultivators, feeling anxious and fearful, began panic-buying war supplies.


    Some unscrupulous merchants and shops imed that if people didn¡¯t buy now, prices would double once the war started.


    As a result, the already high prices of war supplies surged even further.


    Materials that had previouslygged in price also saw a sharp increase, matching the prices of war supplies as sellers hoarded their stocks.


    In response, the three Peak Masters of Wuqi Mountain gathered to discuss the situation.


    Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei had made substantial profits.


    Talismans and pills were both consumables during wartime.


    "Formation prices haven¡¯t risen as much, so I didn¡¯t make as much as the two of you," Shi Manrong said warmly, smiling.


    Formations weren¡¯t consumables, and since the war wasn¡¯t happening in the Liang Kingdom, their prices had only risen slightly along with certain materials.


    "Haha, if formation prices were to skyrocket, that wouldn¡¯t be a good thing! Fairy Shi, you shouldn¡¯t hope for that," Ye Feiughed, downing a cup of wine and making a joke.


    "When I¡¯ve made enough spirit stones, I¡¯ll ask Fairy Shi to enhance the formations on Little Turtle Peak. I hope you¡¯ll give me a discount," Lan Chang''an said thoughtfully, making an early request.


    The peak masters of Wuqi Mountain had made considerable profits, which wouldn¡¯t go unnoticed by those with ill intentions.


    The more one earns, the less one should skimp on protective measures.


    Fairy Shi¡¯s formation skills had now advanced to the point where she could set up quasi-third-rank formations.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan is a loyal customer; I couldn¡¯t be happier to oblige," Shi Manrong said, lightly brushing her hair aside, raising her ss of spirit wine with a charming blush on her silver-moon-like face.


    Ye Fei nced at Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong.


    He noticed that these two senior peak masters asionally exchanged nces and seemed to have a good rapport.


    It had been over thirty years since Shi Manrong lost her memory.


    Even as they "reintroduced" themselves, Lan Chang''an and she had grown closer, sharing simr worldviews, which naturally led to mutual affection.


    In recent years, Shi Manrong had asionally met Lan Chang''an privately, showing more warmth and familiarity than in the past when she was more reserved and dignified.


    However, Lan Chang''an still remembered that when she returned from hunting a great demon with Huanglong Mountain years ago, she had mentioned recovering fragments of memories of the ancient ruin. She hadn¡¯t brought up the matter since then.


    ...


    In the next two years, the information about the war became increasingly certain.


    The upper echelons of several major sects had reached a consensus and began coordinating with the seven great families, major immortal cities, and merchant associations.


    In the year or two leading up to the war, Lan Chang''an traveled to various immortal cities under different identities, gradually selling off the materials he had hoarded.


    Priority was given to materials below second rank, followed by those unrted to his craft.


    Lastly, he sold some old and slightly inferior quality second-rank talismans and puppets.


    Through war profiteering, buying low and selling high, and crafting and selling war necessities, Lan Chang''an amassed enormous wealth.


    Before he knew it, his spirit stone savings had exceeded thirty thousand, and that didn¡¯t even include the stockpile of superior-grade talismans and puppets he still held.


    In previous years, much of the spirit stones Lan Chang''an earned were spent on purchasing materials for crafting puppets.


    Excluding some hidden cards, Lan Chang''an¡¯s worth exceeded that of many Fake-Dan Immortals.


    Take Xiang Jinglong, for example. After achieving Fake-Dan, he spent all his umted wealth on buying a magical treasure, leaving him with little spare cash.


    Xiang Jinglong had even asionally moonlighted as a robber to earn spirit stones. Yet, despite this, his efficiency in earning spirit stones couldn¡¯tpare to Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s ounting revealed that talismans had earned him more spirit stones than puppets.


    This was primarily because puppet-making had a long production cycle, high prices, and fewer buyers.


    Moreover, without being a puppet master or having exceptional spiritual sense, one couldn¡¯t fully utilize the true power of a puppet.


    ...


    One day, in the secret room of Little Turtle Peak.


    "126 years old, Foundation Establishment sixth level," Lan Chang''an opened his ink-like eyes, slowly ending his cultivation session as his white robe fluttered.


    The Evergreen mana within him had increased by twenty to thirty percentpared to when he was at the fifth level of Foundation Establishment.


    Since it wasn¡¯t a breakthrough of a minor realm, the quality of his mana hadn¡¯t changed much.


    His power in using magic weapons or spells wouldn¡¯t see a significant increase, mainly affecting his endurance in prolonged battles.


    If he advanced further, breaking through to the seventh level of Foundation Establishment and entering thete stage, he would be a great cultivator of this realm, achieving a qualitative leap in strength.


    Whoosh!


    Arge green turtle, nearly fifteen feet wide, rubbed against Lan Chang''an¡¯s aura, affectionately seeking his attention.


    Lan Chang''an understood what it meant.


    After exiting his seclusion, he sat on the back of the Profound Water Turtle.


    The Profound Water Turtle, carrying its master, joyfully leaped out of the cave, swaggering as it showed off to the nearby Earth Burrowing Rat.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat nced at the big turtle with disdain, baring its teeth slightly, feeling a bit jealous.


    Squeak!


    Standing on its hind legs, the Earth Burrowing Rat approached the Profound Water Turtle, towering over it by a good margin, and presented a letter in a humanoid fashion.


    It was a letter from Zhang Tieshan.


    The contents of the letter left Lan Chang''an slightly moved.


    "The Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects have announced their expedition. Jin Yun Valley will be sending out the first batch of cultivators..."

 Chapter 165: A Close Relationship

    Chapter 165: A Close Rtionship


    The first batch of cultivators from Jin Yun Valley going on the expedition included Zhang Tieshan and Lin Lu. Though Zhang Tieshan didn¡¯t explicitly state it in his letter, Lan Chang''an could infer the implication from the details he provided.


    As for Zhao Siyao, she might be included in a subsequent batch of expeditionary cultivators.


    Unsurprisingly, a few dayster, Lin Lu visited Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave with gifts, bringing with him more detailed information.


    "Little Lu, you¡¯re being too formal. There¡¯s no need to bring such heavy gifts," Lan Chang''an said as he epted the gifts from Lin Lu, which included second-rank spirit wine, tea leaves, and beast feed.


    "Next time, don¡¯t go to such lengths. If you truly want to show your appreciation, just bring some local specialties when you visit Little Turtle Peak for a casual chat."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression held a slight tone of reproach, and he wasn¡¯t just being polite.


    During the war, Lan Chang''an earned a substantial amount of spirit stones and was financiallyfortable.


    Lin Lu, on the other hand, wasn¡¯t as well-off. The gifts he brought this time exceeded the usual standard, which must have been a significant expense for him.This wasn¡¯t counting the gifts Lin Lu had given during his Foundation Establishment advancement or his previous visits.


    "Uncle Lan, I am truly grateful for your guidance this time, more so than ever before. Thanks to you and the Jade Clear Pill, I was able to smoothly advance to mid-Foundation Establishment¡­"


    Lin Lu exined respectfully, revealing his reasons.


    Since his days in Huanglong Immortal City, Lin Lu had been in contact with Lan Chang''an.


    Over the decades, he hade to realize that this Uncle Lan was no ordinary person, particrly admiring his unchanging mindset and perseverance for over a century, steadily advancing step by step.


    As the saying goes, knowing is easy, but doing is hard. Everyone understands the grand principles of cultivation, but very few can consistently adhere to them for decades or even a hundred years.


    After some reminiscing, the conversation soon turned to the topic of the sect¡¯s expedition, which was partly why Lin Lu hade.


    "I voluntarily applied to be included in the first batch of expeditionary cultivators," Lin Lu said frankly.


    Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t expected Lin Lu to voluntarily request to be part of the expedition. He didn¡¯t fully agree with this decision but chose not to interfere.


    "Going to war with Feng Kingdom is certainly an opportunity. However, the journey is long, and the situation on the battlefield is unpredictable. Especially for those in the vanguard, Nephew Lin must be extremely cautious and take care of yourself." He sighed softly, offering his advice.


    In his two previous lifetimes, Lan Chang''an had witnessedrge-scale wars between sects in the cultivation world.


    Particrly in his second life, the cultivation family he was part of had been forced into conflict, leading to many casualties among his kin.


    "I understand the risks, Uncle Lan. However, this is already the best option avable¡­" Lin Lu replied with a wry smile.


    Although he had the desire to go to war and take a gamble for the sake of his path to immortality, the uncertainty of being in the vanguard made it a high-risk decision.


    Lan Chang''an learned that Jin Yun Valley had selected the first batch of expeditionary cultivators, prioritizing those who were young butcked potential.


    Young cultivators with potential or those with exceptional skills were given some leeway.


    As for the elderly, who had devoted their lives to the sect butcked the vigor and drive, they were just slightly better off than the young with no potential.


    For those who voluntarily applied, there were additional rewards, and it could also leave a good impression on the sect¡¯s higher-ups.


    Of course, cultivators with connections to elders could find ways to avoid being sent to the front lines.


    For example, they could be assigned to guard a location for ten years, avoiding the chaos of war. Even if they went to the front lines, they could take on roles in logistics or supervision, which carried far less risk.


    "¡­Even if nephew didn¡¯t volunteer, he''d likely still be selected for the first batch," Lin Lu said in conclusion.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t deny that Lin Lu¡¯s decision, given his circumstances, was the best of a set of unfavorable options.


    As a young cultivator with no potential, no background, and no outstanding skills, it was better to take the initiative rather than be passively dispatched.


    "This time, I sold off many of my possessions and, with the help of my juniors, managed to gather a significant amount of spirit stones. Under Uncle Zhang¡¯s guidance, I¡¯vee to purchase protective supplies from you, Uncle Lan," Lin Lu exined.


    With the prices of war supplies skyrocketing, it was difficult to find high-quality talismans at a reasonable price.


    After discussing Lin Lu¡¯s spirit stone budget, Lan Chang''an sold him eight mid-to-superior-grade talismans, as well as the repaired mid-grade second-rank spear puppet.


    The price was lower than the current market rate.


    "Little Lu, when you¡¯re on the battlefield, not only must you be wary of enemy cultivators, but you should also keep a cautious eye on your fellow disciples," Lan Chang''an advised before Lin Lu left.


    "This escape talisman is a token of my care for you, take it with you."


    Lan Chang''an handed Lin Lu a top-grade second-rank escape talisman.


    He didn¡¯t want a junior who had shown him respect for so many years to leave and never return.


    "Uncle Lan, please take care of yourself as well, little nephew wishes you a long and evergreen path to Great Dao and sess in reaching Core Formation," Lin Lu said, his eyes slightly reddened as he took the talisman, arched his hands, and flew off into the sky.


    As he watched Lin Lu¡¯s departing figure, Lan Chang''an recalled the Young Marquis Lin Yi from back then.


    Lin Yi had died prematurely in middle age.


    Lin Lu¡¯s lifespan was just over half gone, and it was uncertain whether he could pass this trial and seize an opportunity in the cultivation war.


    ...


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an visited Fairy Shi at Xiao Pan Peak.


    He nned to strengthen the formations on Little Turtle Peak.


    The mid-grade second-rank protective formation that Shi Manrong set up for Little Turtle Peak decades ago was, to him, something of a chicken rib¡ªof little use but couldn''t be discarded just yet.


    Lan Chang''an was prepared to set up a quasi-third-rank small-scale mountain protection formation to enhance his security.


    His own formation skills were only at the ordinary second-rank level, a foundation carried over from his past life''s casual dabbling.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an had already spread his attention across multiple paths¡ªtalisman making, puppetry, alchemy, and body refinement¡ªleaving him little energy to explore other specialties. Besides, formation techniques were abstruse and deep, and his talent in that area was only average.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, it¡¯s rare for you to visit on your own initiative. I¡¯m deeply honored and must properly entertain you," Fairy Shi said with a charming smile, gracefully inviting Lan Chang''an into her cave.


    In an elegantly decorated tea room, Fairy Shi rolled up her sleeves, revealing a jade-like arm, and approached Lan Chang''an, slightly leaning over as she personally brewed and served tea.


    From this angle, the graceful curves of her tall and slender figure, entuated by her moonlit dress, were elegantly outlined, like a serene and beautiful sculpture.


    Lan Chang''an smiled as he admired the scene.


    Fairy Shi¡¯s beauty was exceptional, though not on par with Zhao Siyao or Mu Bingyun.


    However, what made her particrly attractive to a man with experience was the refined and mature aura she exuded, shaped by the hardships she had endured¡ªa scent akin to the fragrance of plum blossoms, dignified yet understated.


    Sensing Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze, Fairy Shi¡¯s serene eyes rippled slightly, and she smiled faintly, meeting his gaze openly.


    Even if counted from the time she lost her memory, their decades of acquaintance, shared ideals, and mutual understanding had naturally brought them closer.


    As neighbors who harbored mutual affection, their rtionship had gradually grown closer in recent years, with an air of subtle intimacy.


    Unlike before she lost her memory, the current Fairy Shi was more reserved and dignified,cking her previous proactive allure.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, please try this tea I¡¯ve brewed. Let me know if it suits your taste," Fairy Shi said in a soft and gentle tone, leaning in a bit closer as she handed Lan Chang''an a cup of tea.


    A rich orchid fragrance wafted around them.


    Looking at the Fairy Shi just inches away, Lan Chang''an easily caught the underlying meaning in her words.


    "We¡¯ve known each other for so many years, and this isn¡¯t the first time I¡¯ve tasted Fairy Shi¡¯s tea. Of course, it suits my taste."


    He responded with a warm smile.


    As he took the teacup from her, their hands touched briefly. Fairy Shi seemed slightly nervous; her slender fingers trembled, spilling a few drops of tea.


    "Let me help you wipe that off."


    Fairy Shi smiled apologetically and, holding Lan Chang''an¡¯s wrist, used her mana to wipe away the spilled tea.


    After this intimate gesture, their hands naturally intertwined, both understanding without the need for words.


    Fairy Shi, still holding the teapot, was slightly bent over, so Lan Chang''an gently pulled her to sit beside him.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan," Fairy Shi murmured, sounding a bit uneasy as she nestled into his embrace, her long legs gracefully crossed.


    "What¡¯s wrong?" Lan Chang''an asked, holding her slender waist, feeling a familiar yet subtly different sensation from the past.


    "I still haven¡¯t remembered the nature of our rtionship before I lost my memory," Fairy Shi said softly.


    Lan Chang''an looked at her, sensing she wasn¡¯t lying.


    The current Fairy Shi indeed had a different personality from before,cking the proactive seductiveness of the past.


    Their emotional connection had deepened slowly and subtly, like a bottle of fine wine that had aged over many years, requiring careful savoring.


    Because Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t been particrly proactive either, it had taken so many years to finally break through the thinyer of ambiguity between them.


    "However, I have a feeling that given our connection and the alignment of our hearts, our rtionship back then must have been quite close," Fairy Shi said with a smile, looking at him.


    "Our rtionship was indeed not shallow," Lan Chang''an admitted.


    At this point in their rtionship, there was no need to hide the truth any longer.


    "In the past, I was curious about our previous rtionship, but now, I don¡¯t want to know so much," Fairy Shi said, stopping Lan Chang''an from exining further.


    In the quiet tea room, the lone man and woman were quietly embracing each other.


    Lan Chang''an could feel the soft and rounded curves of her body, and her lips, sweet and tender, were like ripe cherries.


    After a long time, Fairy Shi finally pulled away, gasping softly as her face flushed with color, her eyes filled with soft emotion.


    "Fairy Shi, we have plenty of time ahead. Let¡¯s take it slow," Lan Chang''an said with a slight smile, releasing the disheveled Fairy Shi, her hair slightly askew, her dress partially undone, revealing a fair length of her snow-white leg.


    "You¡­" Fairy Shi eximed, her eyes widening in thinly veiled anger, feeling something was amiss but unable to pinpoint it.


    However, this was also what she had intended. Having broken through that thinyer of ambiguity, she didn¡¯t want things to progress too quickly, risking being taken lightly by him.


    A momentter, Fairy Shi tidied up her dress, returning to her usual serene and dignified demeanor, though she seemed lost in thought.


    "Fairy Shi, let¡¯s talk about business," Lan Chang''an said, now in a moreposed manner.


    The intimacy just now was merely a brief respite from the long, tedious path of cultivation.


    For cultivators who endure decades or even centuries of hard training, without asional rxation, it¡¯s easy to develop inner demons.


    Most cold-hearted or obsessive demonic cultivatorscked a suitable Daopanion.


    "A quasi-third-rank formation is quite expensive. Are you sure you want to proceed?" Fairy Shi asked, sitting upright.


    "I don¡¯t mind the cost," Lan Chang''an replied, now flush with wealth, he prioritized safety above all else.


    "Given our rtionship, I trust that Fairy Shi will offer me a fair price." Of course, a little haggling never hurt.


    Even a small quasi-third-rank protective formation was costly. A simple discount could save him thousands of spirit stones.


    Fairy Shi lightly flicked her hair and shot him a yful nce.


    After some discussion, she agreed on a n for the quasi-third-rank formation that would suit his needs.


    In the end, she generously offered him a thirty percent discount, leaving little profit for herself.

 Chapter 166: Demons and Fiends

    Chapter 166: Demons and Fiends


    Lan Chang''an decided to strengthen the protective formation around Little Turtle Peak for two main reasons:


    Firstly, the significant increase in talisman prices indicated that he had made a fortune from war profiteering. This might have attracted some unwanted attention, as others could easily specte about his newfound wealth. In reality, Lan Chang''an had earned far more than people might imagine.


    Secondly, due to the sects and the great families mobilizingrge numbers of cultivators for the war effort, their influence and control over the Liang Kingdom might weaken somewhat.


    From Lan Chang''an''s experience, he judged that with the sects¡¯ focus and resources being drawn into the Feng Kingdom, it was inevitable that some "demons and fiends" would emerge within the Liang Kingdom.


    He had encountered simr situations during the small beast tide years ago.


    Back then, the areas near the ck Fog Mountain Range experienced significant disturbances, with rogue cultivators and petty criminals taking advantage of the chaos.


    The "Fox Valley Massacre," a tragic incident that urred near Wuqi Mountain, was one such example of the turmoil at that time.


    Over the next half month, the elegant and graceful figure of Fairy Shi could be seen busily working around Little Turtle Peak.As the formation bases were being set up, Lan Chang''an had the Earth Burrowing Rat and the Profound Water Turtle assist with the tasks.


    During breaks, Lan Chang''an would invite Fairy Shi to his study to rest for half an hour and have some tea.


    These interactions naturally provided them with more opportunities to grow closer.


    Each time Fairy Shi rested in the study, the two would share moments of intimacy.


    Their rtionship progressed further, though they hadn¡¯t yet fully broken through the final barrier.


    Given Fairy Shi''s reserved and slow-to-warm nature, Lan Chang''an took things at a controlled pace, which she seemed to appreciate.


    As their interactions increased, Lan Chang''an grew even more familiar with Fairy Shi¡¯s physical charm than he had been in the past.


    One day, in the study within the cave mansion:


    "Whew! Fellow Daoist Lan, today is the final day of setting up the formation."


    Fairy Shi sighed softly, her face, which was as fair as silver, flushed with a rosy hue. Her curvaceous figurey horizontally in Lan Chang''an''s arms.


    "Hmm, it''s been hard on you these past days," Lan Chang''anforted her.


    At Lan Chang''an''s feet was a single embroidered shoe belonging to a female cultivator. A lotus-like foot, wrapped in a white silk stocking, lifted slightly in tension, forming a beautiful curve.


    "Let me help you up so we can settle the spirit stones," Lan Chang''an said, supporting the beauty¡¯s waist.


    "Do we need to rush the spirit stones?" Fairy Shi''s delicate face froze momentarily, her delicate eyes blinked lightly as she nced at Lan Chang''an.


    With one leg bent at the knee, she slowly lifted herself, presenting a graceful figure as she pulled up the moon-white dress that had slipped down to her knees.


    Lan Chang''an realized that this Fairy Shi¡¯s "slow to warm" nature wasn¡¯t quite as slow as he had initially thought.


    Fairy Shi adjusted her clothing and regained her elegant demeanor, her gaze sweeping over the floor. Her fingers discreetly traced a line of mana through the air, dispersing the moisture in the study.


    "Count it yourself," Lan Chang''an said, handing a bag of spirit stones to Fairy Shi.


    Even though it was just a small-scale formation covering the peak, a quasi-third-rank protective formation was costly.


    With the discount Fairy Shi gave, the setup still cost several thousand spirit stones.


    A quasi-third-rank formation corresponded to the level of a magical treasure prototype.


    Formations were typically more expensive than simr-rank puppets or magical treasures when it came torge-scale transactions.


    Lan Chang''an escorted Fairy Shi out of the cave mansion after finishing the final touches on the quasi-third-rank protective formation.


    "With the spiritual veins of Wuqi Mountain, maintaining a quasi-third-rank formation on Little Turtle Peak will require a steady investment of spirit stones over the years¡­"


    Before departing, Fairy Shi reminded him of some details.


    Once Fairy Shi returned to Xiao Pan Peak, Lan Chang''an integrated his consciousness into the Nine Seal Stele to enhance his senses and thoroughly inspect the newly established quasi-third-rank formation, searching for any hidden backdoors or oversights.


    He had some knowledge of formations himself, and while his skills weren¡¯t as advanced as Fairy Shi''s, his experience and his spiritual sense enhanced to the Core Formation level gave him an edge in spotting potential issues.


    After a long inspection, Lan Chang''an withdrew his senses and exited the Nine Seal Stele.


    "Not ying any tricks," Lan Chang''an nodded to himself.


    At the very least, Fairy Shi hadn¡¯t left any hidden backdoors or obvious ws in the formation.


    While she knew the most effective way to break the formation she had set up, it would require real strength; there was no easy backdoor.


    Lan Chang''an had known this female formation master for decades, and he trusted her character.


    ...


    Two monthster, the five major sects of the Liang Kingdom, led by the me Departing Pce, organized a coalition of cultivators from various forces, assembling an army of over ten thousand cultivators to formally set out to invade Feng Kingdom in the south.


    The cultivator army wasposed ofte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators as soldiers, Foundation Establishment cultivators as the backbone, and Core Formation cultivators as the high-endbat forces.


    At this time, the Feng Kingdom, with its Golden Sun Sect and Proud Moon Pce, both Nascent Soul-level sects, was fending off invasions from the Yan and Chen Kingdoms, also led by Nascent Soul-level sects, and was locked in a stalemate.


    The Liang Kingdom sectsunched their invasion from the north, effectively stabbing Feng Kingdom in the back!


    From a strategic perspective, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t find fault with the n.


    Feng Kingdom was arge, resource-rich country with an ancient and robust cultivation culture, while Liang Kingdom was rtively underdeveloped.


    If the Liang Kingdom sects could seize this opportunity to plunder Feng Kingdom¡¯s abundant resources and deep-rooted cultivation heritage, it would greatly benefit the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    Cross-border warfare, however, involved long distances and dys inmunication.


    Even with Lan Chang''an¡¯s deliberate efforts to stay informed, the flow of information was slow.


    This was also due to the level of power he operated within.


    The upper echelons of the sects had more efficient ways of transmitting information, but critical intelligence wouldn¡¯t be easily leaked.


    It wasn¡¯t until a year after the sects¡¯ expedition that Lan Chang''an began to receive some intelligence from the front lines.


    It was said that the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects had sessfully led their cultivator army across the Feng Kingdom¡¯s borders, capturing an immortal city and wiping out several cultivation families.


    They had sessfully established a foothold deep within Feng Kingdom¡¯s territory.


    ...


    While the sects seemed to have made a strong start in Feng Kingdom, things were less stable within the Liang Kingdom.


    With a significant number of their forces deployed to the Feng Kingdom battlefield, the sects¡¯ grip on the Liang Kingdom weakened, leading to an increase in disorder.


    Some individuals who had previously been suppressed by the sects¡ªthose who were wanted, various evil cultivators, and other nefarious characters¡ªbegan to emerge from the shadows.


    One night, Lan Chang''an was soaking in arge bath filled with fragrant plum blossoms.


    His expression was thoughtful as he remarked, "In the past few months, the prices of talismans and pills have stabilized, but formation prices have seen a noticeable increase."


    "What¡¯s the matter? Are you unhappy that my formations are finally making money, Lanng?" A soft, feminine voice came from across the misty bath, apanied by the sound of sshing water.


    The outline of a figure with skin as fair as snow and an alluringly curvaceous body was vaguely visible through the steam.


    Her long, waterfall-like hair dripped with water, filling the air with a faint orchid fragrance. A smooth, jade-like leg gently broke the surface of the water, creating a scene of captivating beauty.


    After the galloping just recently, Lan Chang''an was utterly desireless, as holy as a saint or Buddha, and was not surprised at the picture of the beauty bathing in front of him.


    As early as a year ago, the two of them had rekindled their rtionship, picking up their brief romance from years past.


    "I¡¯m happy to see you making money, Manrong," Lan Chang''an replied with a smile.


    "However, this trend suggests that things around Wuqi Mountain have be more chaotictely, and the several fights and killings are by no means isted cases."


    In the past two months, the security situation around Wuqi Mountain has deteriorated.


    Crimes that were once rare¡ªlike killing for treasure¡ªhad urred several times.


    Even some notorious rogue cultivators and wanted criminals had surfaced in the surrounding areas. This not only affected Wuqi Mountain¡¯s business but also posed a potential threat to the three main peaks.


    "We¡¯ve reported these incidents to the cultivators of me Departing Pce. At the very least, they¡¯ll eliminate the most obvious threats. And if the worstes to pass, our two main peaks are protected by quasi-third-rank formations, which even a Fake-Dan Immortal would struggle to break," Fairy Shi¡¯s soft, seductive voice echoed through the steamy room.


    "Hmm, I believe the sect must have a reserved hand. They wouldn¡¯t allowplete chaos within the kingdom," Lan Chang''an said.


    At that moment, he felt something slippery brush against his leg beneath the water¡ªa supple, graceful curve pressed up against him.


    "You were quite foresighted, Lanng. The price I charged you a year ago for setting up that quasi-third-rank formation would be impossible to match now," Fairy Shi said with a smile.


    Lan Chang''an chuckled. Having lived through multiple lifetimes, anyone who failed to foresee such matters was simply living in vain.


    In the bath, Fairy Shi¡¯s eyes glimmered with warmth as she nestled against him, her face flushed.


    Just then, Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyelids twitched. He sensed a subtle fluctuation of mana emanating from the vicinity of Wuqi Mountain.


    Momentster, a warning signal echoed from the nearby Little Pill Peak.


    "Fairy Shi, there are two groups of cultivators fighting outside!"


    Not long after, the sound of a voice came from outside the cave on Xiao Pan Peak¡ªit was Ye Fei.


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi quickly exited the cave mansion.


    Seeing them emerge together, Ye Fei paused momentarily but didn¡¯t question it.


    "It¡¯s convenient that Fellow Daoist Lan is here," Ye Fei said with a sly grin.


    "What¡¯s going on with the fight outside?" Lan Chang''an asked, sensing no fewer than five Foundation Establishment-level mana fluctuations.


    "It seems to be a sh between rogue cultivators, a ck eating ck situation?" Ye Fei spected.


    "Outrageous!"


    Rogue cultivators robbing near Wuqi Mountain was already bad enough, but fighting at the very gates of the mountain? That was a direct p in the face.


    The three peak masters flew toward the battle site outside Wuqi Mountain.


    "Keep your distance and be wary of traps," Lan Chang''an advised as they approached the edge of Wuqi Mountain, looking out at the conflict ahead.


    In the forest just a few li from Wuqi Mountain, the fight between the two groups of Foundation Establishment cultivators had already reached a conclusion.


    Three of the cultivators were pursuing a man and a woman, both of whom were also at the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    The woman, d in ck robes, was wounded in her side.


    "We are traveling merchant cultivators from Huanglong Immortal City, just passing through Wuqi Mountain, and were attacked by these rogue cultivators. Please, help us!" the young man with yellowish skin apanying the woman called out for help.


    "Heh! Stop pretending to be innocent, wasn''t that so-called traveling merchant cultivator just ughtered by you guys half a day ago?" the leader of the pursuers, a figure wearing a ck veil hat, sneered in a raspy voice.


    "Three Peak Masters, we really are the victims here. My sister is seriously injured¡­" The yellow-skinned young man continued to fight while retreating, his voice anxious.


    Lan Chang''an exchanged nces with the other two peak masters, and they quickly came to a decision.


    "Ye Fei, you¡¯ll be the one to speak," Lan Chang''an instructed.


    "Why me?"


    "Because you¡¯re the youngest peak master of Wuqi Mountain."


    Ye Fei reluctantly agreed, stepping ten zhang into the air.


    Radiating the spiritual pressure of a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, his robes fluttered as he shouted, "No matter who you are, you dare trespass on Wuqi Mountain without permission¡ªkill without pardon!"

 Chapter 167: Leaving No Future Trouble

    Chapter 167: Leaving No Future Trouble


    Upon hearing Ye Fei''s assertive promation, the expressions of the yellow-skinned youth and the ck-robed female cultivator being pursued changed instantly.


    "We were merely passing through near Wuqi Mountain, nning to purchase some supplies. Is this how Wuqi Mountain treats guests? By ignoring their pleas and leaving them at the mercy of rogue cultivators? You turn your back on those in need and shut out potential visitors?"


    The yellow-skinned youth''s face contorted with anger and frustration as he hurled usations.


    Lan Chang''an and the other two peak masters ignored his questions and each summoned a supreme-grade magical weapon, blocking the siblings from entering Wuqi Mountain.


    "What kind of customer shows up in the middle of the night, already engaged in a fight in the woods? Wuqi Mountain only receives legitimate visitors and doesn''t involve itself in external disputes," Lan Chang''an responded calmly.


    He and Ye Fei each also activated a mid and low-grade second-rank puppet. With this kind of lineup, coupled with the advantage of being on home ground, they had no reason to fear the five people fighting outside, even if they were working together.


    "The three Peaks Masters are smart people, we''ll remember this favor," the leader of the pursuers, the man wearing a ck veil hat, chuckled hoarsely.


    The yellow-skinned youth and his sister had no choice but to skirt the edges of Wuqi Mountain, taking a longer route to escape.This detour only allowed the pursuers to close in on them more quickly.


    Soon, the three pursuers caught up and cornered the siblings.


    After a brief but intense fight, the yellow-skinned youth and the ck-robed female cultivator found their weapons damaged, their spiritual lights dim, and their bodies wounded.


    "Brother, since we can''t escape, let''s fight them to the end!"


    The ck-robed female cultivator, her teeth clenched, looked at her brother with a cold, despairing expression.


    "Little sister, run! I''ll hold them off!"


    The yellow-skinned youth, his face marked with violet-blue blood lines from the secret technique he activated, saw his mana surge to nearlyte Foundation Establishment level.


    He shoved the ck-robed female cultivator away,unching a desperate counterattack against the three pursuers.


    "Haha, a cornered dog is making ast stand," the ck-veiled leader''s mana surged from mid tote Foundation Establishment level.


    "You... you were hiding your cultivation..."


    With the odds now three against one, the yellow-skinned youth was quickly overpowered, his body cut into pieces.


    Seeing this, the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain were momentarily stunned.


    It was now clear that the two groups of Foundation Establishment cultivators were indeed not on the same side.


    Fairy Shi exchanged a nce with Lan Chang''an, showing a hint of pity, though she remained silent.


    "Brother!"


    The ck-robed female cultivator, having fled some distance, was heartbroken. Tears streamed down her beautiful face.


    "That female cultivator is rather pretty. Capture her quickly; we can sell her for a high price afterward..."


    The ck-veiled leader shot a wary nce at the three peak masters from Wuqi Mountain before ordering his subordinates to pursue.


    "One day, Wuqi Mountain will pay for this¡ª"


    The ck-robed female cultivator, filled with hatred, not only resented the three rogue cultivators but also harbored deep animosity toward the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain for their indifference.


    She shot a cold, venomous re at Lan Chang''an and the others, memorizing their faces.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s brow furrowed slightly.


    But given the ck-robed female cultivator''s speed, she wouldn¡¯t be able to escape the pursuit of the three rogue cultivators, especially thete Foundation Establishment leader.


    Suddenly, a sound of rushing wind came from the southeast.


    A crimson light streaked through the night sky, flying toward them.


    "Retreat!"


    The ck-veiled leader nced at the light, his face changing drastically. Without hesitation, he called off his subordinates and quickly fled.


    They abandoned their chase of the ck-robed female cultivator, leaving her behind.


    ...


    "Cultivators from the me Departing Pce?"


    The three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain turned their attention to the approaching crimson iron ship, realizing who it was.


    The vessel was a signature flying weapon of me Departing Pce, bearing a fire emblem on either side, each formed by a small teardrop-shaped me. The emblems emitted a spiral glow as the ship flew.


    The ship carried four Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The leader, a refined man in a green robe with a clean and youthful face, was at thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    "Song Wenshu?"


    Lan Chang''an recognized the man.


    During the beast tide years ago, Song Wenshu had apanied Hong Song Immortal of me Departing Pce in investigating the Fox Valley massacre, during which he and Lan Chang''an had briefly met.


    In the years that followed, Lan Chang''an had only seen Song Wenshu once more, and they hadn¡¯t formed any meaningful rtionship.


    "Senior Brother Song, those escaping bandits might include the notorious ''Night Fisherman,'' a bandit wanted by several major sects," a bearded mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator on the orange ship identified the veiled man¡¯s identity.


    "Night Fisherman? He¡¯s known for operating under the cover of night, robbing for money and lust, always with a bamboo hat on his head, appearing and disappearing like a ghost...," Song Wenshu quickly recalled details about this wanted criminal, who was somewhat infamous in the Liang Kingdom.


    One of his most notorious crimes involved kidnapping several female cultivators from sects and selling them into brothels, where they were subjected to unspeakable horrors. This led to a severe crackdown by the sects, forcing him into hiding for a decade or more.


    "We three will give chase. You stay here and investigate," Song Wenshu ordered, leaving the bearded man behind while he and two other disciples went after the Night Fisherman.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan."


    Before departing, Song Wenshu exchanged a distant nod with Lan Chang''an, offering a brief greeting.


    Lan Chang''an, feigning slight surprise, cautioned, "Be careful, Fellow Daoist Song. That bandit leader was hiding his true cultivation; he might be more dangerous than he appears."


    Sect cultivators generally had the advantage over rogue cultivators of the same rank.


    Given Song Wenshu''s strong background within me Departing Pce, he would likely avoid any serious mishaps unless he grossly underestimated his opponent.


    The bearded man left behind was Cao Yuan, a trusted subordinate of Song Wenshu. After exchanging introductions, Cao Yuan began investigating the scene around Wuqi Mountain.


    After inspecting the yellow-skinned youth¡¯s corpse, Cao Yuan appeared thoughtful.


    He nced in the direction where the ck-robed female cultivator had fled, showing a hint of regret.


    "Fellow Daoist Cao, who exactly were those two being pursued?" Lan Chang''an inquired.


    "Those two were Pei Wenkang and Pei Qiuyan, siblings from a fallen cultivation family. They recently purchased a shop in Liaoyuan Immortal City at a high price but fell into debt after a failed business venture..."


    "A few days ago, the Pei siblings went out to procure supplies and came across a small merchant caravan being ambushed by rogue cultivators. The fight was fierce, and the bandits eventually retreated. The siblings, in a moment of greed, decided to loot the severely weakened caravan."


    "However, the truth came to light shortly after, and the Pei siblings could no longer stay in Liaoyuan Immortal City. They fled under cover of night."


    After hearing Cao Yuan¡¯s ount, Lan Chang''an understood that the siblings weren¡¯t true rogue cultivators.


    They had conducted business honestly and even helped others, without leaving any negative impressions on those they dealt with.


    But after losing everything in their business and facing the weakening control of the sects due to the war, they seized a rare opportunity to make some quick gains, ultimately leading them down a dark path.


    Cao Yuan spected that the bandits they had robbed likely belonged to the Night Fisherman¡¯s crew, which led to their relentless pursuit.


    One basis for this theory was that the Night Fisherman was known for his relentless tracking, rarely letting his prey escape once targeted.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Song Wenshu returned to Wuqi Mountain with the two Foundation Establishment cultivators, reuniting with Cao Yuan.


    "Did you catch any of the bandits?" Lan Chang''an and the other two peak masters approached to inquire.


    "The Night Fisherman is cunning. Heid down decoys along the way and split up with his subordinates. In the end, we only managed to kill one of his Foundation Establishment subordinates," Song Wenshu sighed, expressing his regret.


    This oue didn¡¯t surprise Lan Chang''an.


    Although the Night Fisherman was once infamous, he wouldn¡¯t dare to fight me Departing Pce''s elite cultivators head-on.


    The disparity in their strength was too great.


    Even if the Night Fisherman were to somehow win, killing a Foundation Establishment cultivator with a significant background would draw the attention of me Departing Pce¡¯s higher-ups. He would find it would be difficult to move an inch in Liang, likely facing certain death.


    Subsequently, Song Wenshu learned that the Pei siblings who had been pursued also had a criminal record in the Liaoyuan Immortal City area, which was under me Departing Pce¡¯s jurisdiction.


    "Pei Qiuyan is seriously injured. There may be traces left on the path. Try to track her down and capture her," Song Wenshu was toozy to do it himself, leaving the task to Cao Yuan and other Foundation Establishment henchmen.


    Late that night, Song Wenshu stayed as a guest at Little Turtle Peak, epting the three peak masters'' invitation to a banquet.


    Lan Chang''an and the others were naturally eager to strengthen their rtionship with the me Departing Pce cultivators.


    Song Wenshu didn¡¯t look down on the three skilled craftsmen of Wuqi Mountain.


    He still remembered the Fox Valley massacre, where the mysterious rogue cultivator group involved was even more formidable and elusive than the Night Fisherman.


    During that incident, Song Wenshu was deeply impressed by Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei¡¯s performance, as they both showed remarkable strength, managing to turn the tables on stronger opponents.


    Especially Lan Chang''an, who assisted Hong Song Immortal in killing the leader of the bandit group, a mysteriouste Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    To this day, the identity of that ringleader remains a mystery.


    ...


    The following morning, Cao Yuan and his team returned, looking dejected as they regrouped with Song Wenshu.


    "You couldn¡¯t catch her?" Song Wenshu asked in surprise.


    Their target was just an injured early Foundation Establishment female cultivator with limited escape capabilities. Surely she would have left some traces behind. All of these cultivators were part of me Departing Pce¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall and were skilled in tracking.


    "Senior Brother Song, we found traces of the female cultivator for several hundred li as she fled from Wuqi Mountain. But then, the trail abruptly ended, and we lost all signs of her..." Cao Yuan blushed with embarrassment as he lowered his head.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes gleamed slightly, noting the details Cao Yuan provided.


    "Forget it. It''s just a small fish," Song Wenshu sighed, deciding to let it go.


    "Sorry to have caused you trouble, Fellow Daoist Lan," Song Wenshu said.


    "Don¡¯t worry about it, Fellow Daoist Song. Pei Qiuyan wasn¡¯t a truly evil person. Perhaps the heavens showed mercy, giving her a chance to turn her life around," Lan Chang''an replied without giving anything away.


    Feeling dispirited by his failures, Song Wenshu was eager to leave, so he bid his farewells.


    Before parting, Lan Chang''an handed Song Wenshu a bag of spirit stones. Thetter declined several times before reluctantly epting, calling it a "hardship fee."


    Lan Chang''an knew that Song Wenshu, due to his unusual background, hadn¡¯t been sent to the warfront in the neighboring country. Instead, he was tasked with patrolling the interior of the Liang Kingdom and maintaining order around me Departing Pce¡¯s jurisdiction.


    Wuqi Mountain, not far from the kingdom¡¯s hearnd, fell within the edge of Song Wenshu¡¯s patrolling territory.


    The nearby Fox Valley was one of me Departing Pce¡¯s spirit vein sites.


    ...


    Half a day after the me Departing Pce cultivators left, Lan Chang''an retreated to his secret room in Little Turtle Peak.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from a hidden entrance in the chamber, carrying a storage pouch in its mouth.


    It also spat out a thin, almost invisible mask.


    Lan Chang''an opened the storage pouch and nced inside, his expression unreadable.


    The items within weren¡¯t worth as much as those carried by ate Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    He then picked up the Hundred Illusions Mask, detecting a faint trace of blood and a subtle, lingering fragrance of a woman.


    Although Pei Qiuyan wasn¡¯t a heinous criminal, she had clearly harbored deep resentment toward the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain after her escape. Naturally, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t allow such a potential threat to remain.


    An injured early Foundation Establishment cultivator stood no chance against the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s second-rankte-stage stealth attack. It was a quick, decisive kill.


    Staring at the Hundred Illusions Mask in his hand, Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze grew contemtive.


    This was the first time the Hundred Illusions Mask had acquired a new identity through the death of its target, absorbing their essence blood, and soul.


    He ced the mask on his face, feeling a cold, eerie sensation as it seamlessly merged with his skin.


    In the blink of an eye, a female cultivator with eyes like autumn waters, jade-like skin, and an air of icy elegance appeared in the secret room.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s eyes widened, its fur standing on end as it bared its teeth at the sight of "Pei Qiuyan," the woman it had killed not long ago.


    "What a pity, such a beautiful woman."


    Lan Chang''an traced his finger across a water mirror, gazing at the reflection of the stunning female cultivator, her skin as wless as snow, her figure graceful and alluring, and her long hair as smooth as silk.

 Chapter 168: Tracking Mark

    Chapter 168: Tracking Mark


    Through his testing, Lan Chang''an discovered that when the Hundred Illusions Mask absorbed a target''s essence blood, and soul upon their death, it created an identity that wasn''t just a perfect physical and spiritual mimic. It also allowed him to seamlessly embody the inner temperament and habits of the person whose identity he assumed.


    In just a few moments, Lan Chang''an could effortlessly "be" the dead Pei Qiuyan, convincingly portraying her as a cold and ethereal Foundation Establishment female cultivator.


    His mannerisms, tone of voice, and every small detail in bodynguage were so urate that they were as good as the real thing.


    "As long as I avoid saying anything out of character, even those closest to the deceased would struggle to see through the disguise," Lan Chang''an concluded.


    This was a stark contrast to the disguises he''d used before, such as when he impersonated "Junior Brother Cheng" by merely replicating his appearance and aura. Back then, any close acquaintance of Cheng''s might have noticed something was off if they were observant enough, as he hadcked the real essence.


    Fortunately, since Junior Brother Cheng had been expelled from Huanglong Mountain years before, Lan Chang''an had managed to avoid any major slip-ups by keeping a low profile and speaking minimally.


    After a long while, Lan Chang''an removed the Hundred Illusions Mask. For a brief moment, his mind felt disoriented, as though he was emerging from an immersive role-ying experience back into his true identity.


    For an average cultivator, the sudden shift could induce a strong sense of dissonance.However,pared to the reincarnations and rebirths he''d experienced through the Nine Seal Stele, this was nothing for Lan Chang''an.


    Squeak, squeak!


    Seeing that Lan Chang''an had returned to his original form, the Earth Burrowing Rat was overjoyed. Its fur rxed from the previous tense, bristling state.


    It stretched out its ws and affectionately touched Lan Changan''s body, as if to confirm he was not a fake.


    ...


    In the months that followed, the chaos and violence around Wuqi Mountain gradually subsided, likely due to the deterrent effect of the me Departing Pce¡¯s interventions.


    The spirit stones that Lan Chang''an gifted to Song Wenshu as a "hardship fee" (shared among the three peak masters) were well-spent.


    asionally, Song Wenshu would lead a patrol of me Departing Pcew enforcement cultivators through the area around Wuqi Mountain and stop by Little Turtle Peak for tea.


    In the eyes of outsiders, this highlighted the good rtionship between Wuqi Mountain and the cultivators of the me Departing Pce.


    However, incidents where Wuqi Mountain¡¯s guests were ambushed and killed en route couldn¡¯t bepletely prevented. These urrences were less brazen than before, with the attacks happening at least a few dozen li away.


    Compared to the chaos around most market towns or immortal cities, this was already considered rtively safe.


    The main issue was the overall environment.


    As the war in Feng Kingdom dragged on, more and more shady characters and opportunistic scoundrels were taking advantage of the chaos, stirring up trouble and fishing in troubled waters.


    Among these troublemakers, the true rogue and evil cultivators were only a fraction. Many of the incidents involved ordinary cultivators "moonlighting" as bandits, like thete Pei siblings.


    If not for Lan Chang''an''s long lifespan and ample wealth, he might have been tempted to engage in some underhanded activities himself, ying the part of a wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing to fish for greater opportunities.


    One day, the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain gathered in Little Turtle Peak¡¯s cave mansion to discuss recent developments.


    This meeting was initiated by Lan Chang''an.


    "Recently, there¡¯s been an increase in incidents of robbery and murder around Wuqi Mountain, with a growing trend toward chaos andwlessness," Lan Chang''an said.


    What he didn¡¯t mention was that over the past two months, his powerful soul had vaguely sensed unknown cultivators spying on Wuqi Mountain from a distance.


    These intrusions might not have been targeting Wuqi Mountain directly but could have been tracking some of their guests.


    As a cultivator with a long lifespan and the Crystal Condensation Pill in hand, Lan Chang''an demanded a stable and peaceful cultivation environment.


    "I¡¯ve noticed it too," Fairy Shi agreed. "The guests who were ambushed recently were mostly those without significant strength or backing, and most incidents urred at night."


    Given the broader context, where public security was declining across the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, this was amon issue, especially near smaller marketces or gathering ces.


    With so many cultivators away at war, the sects couldn¡¯t possibly handle every minor incident.


    The deaths of a few ordinary cultivators didn¡¯t create a significant impact and wouldn¡¯t draw the sects¡¯ attention.


    Song Wenshu had been quite busytely, and it wouldn¡¯t be appropriate to bother him with these rtively minor issues around Wuqi Mountain.


    "I suspect there¡¯s a group of bandits operating near Wuqi Mountain, possibly with a fixed base of operations. Our guests on the mountain are one of the targets they have their eyes on," Lan Chang''an said, voicing his suspicions.


    There were several small spiritual vein sites and minor cultivation families within a two-thousand-li radius, and Wuqi Mountain served as a modest trading hub for the area.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, since you¡¯ve called us together, do you have any suggestions?" Ye Fei asked with a smile.


    Having been neighbors for so many years, he was familiar with Lan Chang''an¡¯s approach to things.


    "I have two proposals," Lan Chang''an said after some thought.


    "The first is that if we don¡¯t want to take any risks, we could hire an expert toe and eradicate the bandits¡¯ base nearby."


    "The second is that if the bandits¡¯ strength is manageable, we could take care of them ourselves, as a warning to others."


    The other two peak masters nodded in agreement.


    With theirbined wealth and strength, the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain could realistically consider either option.


    "The key is determining the bandits¡¯ strength," Fairy Shi mused. "But tracking isn¡¯t my strong suit."


    Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei exchanged a nce.


    "Leave that to the two of us," Lan Chang''an offered.


    With his second-rank rat demon, Lan Chang''an had an excellent tracker, capable of sniffing out clues and investigating hidden threats.


    Ye Fei, in addition to his knowledge of medicine and poison, had also mastered a mysterious insect control technique.


    "Fairy Shi, with your higher cultivation and superior skills, we might need to rely on you if ites to a fight," Lan Chang''an added.


    ...


    Over the next few nights, Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei quietly conducted their investigation.


    They started by sweeping a twenty-li radius around Wuqi Mountain but found no traces of the bandits¡¯ base or any clues leading to it.


    One afternoon, Lan Chang''an sat by the lotus pond at Little Turtle Peak, enjoying the spirit tea served to him by the maid.


    The Profound Water Turtle lounged beside the pond, gazing longingly in a particr direction, its eyes tinged with a subtle longing.


    Lan Chang''an suddenly recalled that he hadn¡¯t received any letters from Guan Qiaozhi in years.


    "Twenty years," he calcted roughly. It had been more than twenty years since Guan Qiaozhi had left.


    She had left when Lan Chang''an was one hundred and seven years old.


    Now, Lan Chang''an was one hundred and twenty-eight.


    In a few more years, Guan Qiaozhi would also reach the age of one hundred.


    Given that she hadn¡¯t engaged in any significant conflicts, had taken good care of herself, and had even consumed a first-rank Life Extension Pill, Lan Chang''an estimated that she could live close to the upper limit of the Qi-Refining stage.


    Swoosh!


    A streak of Foundation Establishment-level light flew through the air from outside Wuqi Mountain, interrupting Lan Chang''an¡¯s thoughts as it made its way straight toward the mountain.


    "Uncle Lan!"


    A soft, melodious voice called out.


    A slender, graceful young woman in a green dressnded in front of Little Turtle Peak.


    She had bright eyes, neat white teeth, and a delicate, jade-like appearance.


    This familiar voice and appearance stirred twofold memories within Lan Chang''an.


    The more distant memories had faded over time, but the more recent memories were of one of the two maids who had once served on Little Turtle Peak¡ªa lonely and resolute girl in a green dress.


    "Bingyun, you''vee," Lan Chang''an said with a gentle smile as he stood up.


    He opened the formation, allowing Mu Bingyun to enter this once iparably familiar home.


    Twenty-something years had passed, yet the mountain¡¯syout, every tree, and de of grass, remained nearly unchanged.


    Only the Profound Water Turtle had grownrger.


    The revered Uncle Lan, still d in white, appeared ageless, his aura calm and serene.


    His tall and upright figure seemed like an ancient tree deeply rooted in the earth, his presence growing more profound and steady with the passage of time.


    In that moment, whether due to her emotions or a trick of the mind, Mu Bingyun couldn¡¯t help but perceive him as a towering, almost monumental figure.


    ...


    "Bingyun greets Uncle Lan."


    Mu Bingyun stepped forward, her tone respectful as she bowed with her hands sped in front of her.


    As the disciple of an old friend and a former maid who had once served here, Lan Chang''an skipped the usual pleasantries and invited her to sit casually in the cave mansion as she pleased.


    As she entered the cave mansion, Mu Bingyun almost slipped back into her old role as a maid, instinctively preparing to serve Uncle Lan tea.


    She quickly realized how much the years she¡¯d spent on Little Turtle Peak had influenced her life, leaving an indelible mark.


    "The area around Wuqi Mountain has been quite chaotictely. You shouldn¡¯t be traveling here so freely," Lan Chang''an remarked as he sipped his tea, studying the former maid who had once served him.


    Mu Bingyun had sessfully advanced to the mid-Foundation Establishment, likely in the past two years.


    This was faster than he had anticipated.


    "Uncle Lan, is there truly any ce left in Liang Kingdom that can be called safe, outside of the sects¡¯ territories?" Mu Bingyun sighed.


    She then exined the purpose of her visit to Wuqi Mountain.


    "A few months ago, the already turbulent Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market Town was attacked by a group of cultivators, both from within and outside the market. They overran the market, leaving destruction in their wake. Our family¡¯s shop suffered significant losses, with several casualties..."


    Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t expected the situation in Bamboo Leaf Mountain to be so much worse than in Wuqi Mountain.


    Around Wuqi Mountain, there were at most a few scattered bandits, and nothing major had urred.


    "The owners of Bamboo Leaf Mountain are the Huang Family. Didn¡¯t Huang Yingchun''ste-stage Foundation Establishment partner put up a fight?" Lan Chang''an asked, his eyes narrowing.


    "No, he didn¡¯t. Thatte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator is nearing the end of his lifespan and has be quite frail. Two years ago, Huang Yingchun had distanced herself from him, so he wouldn¡¯t risk his life for this..." Mu Bingyun exined.


    "During the battle at the market, the Huang Family¡¯s recently cultivated Foundation Establishment disciple, who they had worked so hard to train, was unfortunately killed."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an was convinced that Bamboo Leaf Mountain was bing a hotbed of trouble.


    "Feiyue Lake is a nearby Foundation Establishment family. The safety of our family¡¯s cultivators is at risk. After discussing it with Uncle Erqing, we¡¯ve decided to enhance the n-protecting formation around Feiyue Lake."


    "Uncle Lan, I know that Fairy Shi is a third-rank formation master and has a good rtionship with you. I was hoping to ask for her help with the formation." Mu Bingyun exined her request.


    "That shouldn¡¯t be a problem. I¡¯ll take you to see herter," Lan Chang''an agreed with a nod.


    His rtionship with Fairy Shi was anything but shallow.


    "By the way, Bingyun, did you feel like someone was watching you as you made your way to Wuqi Mountain?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "I think I might have felt that at some point," Mu Bingyun replied, though she wasn¡¯t entirely sure.


    Given what she knew about Uncle Lan, she assumed he wouldn¡¯t ask such a question without reason.


    In the current chaotic state of the world, it wasn¡¯t unusual to feel like someone was spying on you during a journey.


    However, as a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator and a second-rank talisman master, Mu Bingyun believed that no ordinary bandits would dare to target her.


    Without proper nning, even ate Foundation Establishment cultivator might struggle to defeat a mid-Foundation Establishment talisman master.


    However, at this moment Lan Chang''an discovered a subtle tracking mark on Mu Bingyun''s body.

 Chapter 169: Bait in the Dark

    Chapter 169: Bait in the Dark


    The tracking mark on Mu Bingyun was so subtle that even a typicalte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator would have trouble detecting it.


    Lan Chang''an surmised that the person who had ced the mark likely had a spiritual sense stronger than mostte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, but still significantly weaker than a Fake-Dan Immortal.


    If it had been a Fake-Dan cultivator who ced the mark, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have noticed it so easily without using the Nine Seal Stele or making a deliberate effort to probe.


    Lan Chang''an''s thoughts raced as he decided not to inform Mu Bingyun about the mark for the time being to avoid startling the snake prematurely.


    "Uncle Lan, is there a troublesome rogue cultivator around Wuqi Mountain?" Mu Bingyun asked, her toneced with concern.


    Uncle Lan''s inquiry suggested that he was worried she might have caught the attention of a formidable bandit.


    "Yes," Lan Chang''an replied, his expression serious. "Half a year ago, a particrly dangerous bandit made an appearance. Although he hasn''t shown up since, I suspect he¡¯s still lurking around these parts."


    Lan Chang''an mentioned the situation of the "Night Fisherman.""Night Fisherman? I''ve heard of him," Mu Bingyun said, her heart tightening with fear. "He¡¯s skilled in tracking, wears a bamboo hat, robs people of their wealth and their dignity, and has a penchant for acting under the cover of night."


    Mu Bingyun''s expression darkened.


    Ordinary Foundation Establishment bandits wouldn¡¯t pose much of a threat to her. However, Night Fisherman, an experienced and elusive bandit, was an entirely different matter.


    She had arrived at Wuqi Mountain around noon, which was much safer.


    Lan Chang''an deftly changed the topic to the situation of the Mu Family and Mu Bingyun''s personal cultivation.


    Mu Bingyun had advanced from early-stage Foundation Establishment to mid-stage in about twenty-five to twenty-six years. This pace was faster than most cultivators with mid-grade spiritual roots.


    Over the years, Mu Bingyun hadn¡¯t encountered any significant opportunities; her cultivation had simply progressed smoothly, without getting stuck at any bottlenecks during her transition to mid-stage Foundation Establishment.


    Lan Chang''an had some guesses about this.


    Years ago, Mu Bingyun had suffered damage to her foundation, which Lan Chang''an had nurtured her over a long period with his Evergreen mana. This had naturally slowed her cultivation progress at the time.


    However, Mu Bingyun had also benefitted from this, as the infusion of Evergreen mana had nourished her and given her more time to temper and solidify her foundation.


    As a result, her foundation during the Qi-Refining stage had be more resilient than that of most cultivators.


    Although her innate talent hadn¡¯t changed, this treatment had slightly increased her cultivation potential and given her a smoother cultivation path than others with mid-grade spiritual roots.


    This advantage made her early-stage Foundation Establishment progress much smoother.


    However, this minor benefit would be less significant as she advanced further, eventually bing negligible.


    Mu Bingyun had vaguely sensed the changes in her own cultivation and was even more grateful and respectful towards Uncle Lan. She also found herself increasingly curious and drawn towards him in ways she couldn¡¯t quite articte.


    ...


    After chatting for an hour or two, Lan Chang''an suddenly seemed to remember something.


    "Oh, I almost forgot. Let me take you to visit Fairy Shi."


    His tone carried a hint of regret, as if he had genuinely just remembered Mu Bingyun''s main reason foring.


    "It''s alright," Mu Bingyun replied with a gentle smile. "Ever since I left Little Turtle Peak, opportunities to receive guidance from Uncle Lan have be few and far between."


    Her eyes gleamed as she spoke, and her smile held a hint of warmth.


    In truth, she felt as if time had passed far too quickly, and was left wanting more time with him.


    Lan Chang''an then led Mu Bingyun to visit Fairy Shi on Xiao Pan Peak to discuss the matter of setting up the formation.


    Having spent a good decade or two at Little Turtle Peak, Mu Bingyun was no stranger to Fairy Shi, who weed her kindly.


    The two women discussed the details of the formation quite smoothly.


    Mu Bingyun intended to strengthen the Mu Family¡¯s protective formation at Feiyue Lake. Though the formation wouldn''t be as high-tier as the quasi-third-rank formation on Little Turtle Peak, it would cover a muchrger area.


    The cost would be significant, far exceeding that of a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    For many well-established Foundation Establishment families, the issue wasn¡¯t being able to afford a Foundation Establishment Pill but rather being able to acquire one without drawing too much attention, as well as avoiding making enemies.


    If they were to recklessly bid for a Foundation Establishment Pill at an auction, they risked offendingte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators or even Fake-Dan Immortals. The potential consequences of this could be catastrophic.


    After all, the cultivation world had no truly safe ces, not even in the grand immortal cities.


    For example, a Fake-Dan Immortal with malicious intent could easily erase a regr Foundation Establishment cultivator without leaving a trace of evidence.


    Even Lan Chang''an himself would be capable of such a feat.


    ...


    "Miss Bingyun, I''ll ept this deposit for now," Fairy Shi said after they had finalized the details of the formation. "Once all the materials are ready, I¡¯ll make a trip to Feiyue Lake."


    By the time Mu Bingyun and Fairy Shi finished discussing the transaction, night had already fallen.


    During their conversation, Lan Chang''an had been privatelymunicating with Fairy Shi, updating her on some details through voice transmission.


    Lan Chang''an then escorted Mu Bingyun back to Little Turtle Peak.


    After a simple dinner, night had fully descended.


    Mu Bingyun nced outside, contemting whether to stay the night.


    On the one hand, she instinctively wanted to stay longer at Little Turtle Peak and spend more time with Uncle Lan.


    On the other hand, there was the potential threat of powerful bandits like Night Fisherman near Wuqi Mountain.


    Traveling during daylight would certainly be safer.


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s old room in the cave residence still remained untouched. However, as a beautiful and distinguished female cultivator, she hesitated to bring up the idea of staying overnight.


    She hoped that Uncle Lan would offer her the option himself.


    "Bingyun, it''s gettingte," Lan Chang''an said with a kind smile. "You should head back soon and be careful on your way."


    Head back now?


    Mu Bingyun was momentarily stunned, her lips parting slightly in surprise.


    "You''re now the esteemed ancestor of the Mu Family, with a noble status," Lan Chang''an said, his tone sincere. "For the sake of propriety, I won¡¯t be keeping you here overnight."


    Mu Bingyun found herself speechless, unable to find a reason to refute his logic.


    After all, as an unmarried female Foundation Establishment cultivator of notable beauty and status, staying overnight with an unmarried male Foundation Establishment cultivator, especially one who was technically her senior, might indeed raise some eyebrows.


    There was nothing wrong with Uncle Lan¡¯s reasoning. If anything, it demonstrated his noble character.


    "You¡¯re right, Uncle Lan."


    Mu Bingyun smiled faintly, though her heart was tinged with disappointment.


    The slight sadness clouded her mind, obscuring some of the details she might otherwise have noticed.


    When she had served as a maid here, it was only natural to spend every night in the cave residence. But now, that was no longer possible.


    In her eyes, Uncle Lan¡¯s behavior suggested that he saw her more as an outsider now.


    Before leaving, Mu Bingyun took a moment to bid farewell to the Earth Burrowing Rat and Profound Water Turtle.


    Despite the years that had passed, the two spirit pets hadn¡¯t forgotten her and were still quite affectionate.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat scurried up to Mu Bingyun, gently brushing against the hem of her long skirt.


    Mu Bingyun smiled warmly and bent down to touch its paw.


    She remembered that when she had first arrived at Little Turtle Peak, her reserved and introverted nature had made her unpopr with Guan Qiaozhi. The Earth Burrowing Rat had been the one to cheer her up from time to time.


    "Bingyun, these two talismans are a gift from Uncle Lan," Lan Chang''an said as he handed her two high-quality talismans.


    "Uncle Lan, this is too generous," Mu Bingyun said, her expression softening as she examined the two talismans. They were both superior second-rank talismans, and one of them was an exceptionally high-quality piece.


    "Wuqi Mountain isn¡¯t as safe as it used to be," Lan Chang''an said, his expression turning stern. "Keep them for self-defense and don¡¯t let your guard down."


    "Thank you, Uncle Lan," Mu Bingyun said, touched by his concern. The warmth in her heart quickly dispelled the disappointment she¡¯d felt earlier.


    As a fellow talisman master, she understood the rarity and value of a top-tier second-rank talisman.


    If Uncle Lan didn¡¯t care for her, he certainly wouldn¡¯t have given her such a precious gift.


    "Goodbye, Uncle Lan," Mu Bingyun said, her spirits lifted as she left, her light steps almost floating as she disappeared into the night.


    ...


    Shortly after Mu Bingyun¡¯s departure, Fairy Shi appeared on Little Turtle Peak, her graceful figure d in her usual elegant robes.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, can you really be so cruel as to let such a beautiful young lover use her body as bait?" Fairy Shi teased, her tone filled with amusement.


    "Hehe, I¡¯d better watch out from now on. Otherwise, one day you might sell me off, and I''ll still be in the dark, counting money for you," she continued with a yful chuckle.


    "Young lover? You¡¯re overthinking things, Fairy Shi. She¡¯s just a junior to me, and our rtionship is very straightforward," Lan Chang''an sighed and denied.


    "The way she looks at you is anything but simple," Fairy Shi said with a hint of jealousy. "Mu Bingyun is prettier and younger than I am¡ªare you telling me you aren''t the slightest bit tempted, Lanng?"


    Lan Chang''an changed the subject, "Let¡¯s get back to the task at hand."


    Fairy Shi, as an experienced cultivator, and considering their rtionship as mere lovers, knew better than to dwell on such matters.


    "I carefully observed her earlier," Fairy Shi said, her tone turning serious. "Mu Bingyun does indeed carry a tracking mark. Whoever ced it has a spiritual sense slightly stronger than that of an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, likely that of Night Fisherman."


    Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t mentioned the tracking mark earlier, only that Mu Bingyun might be being watched and had felt as though she was being observed.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s n was for the three of them to secretly tail Mu Bingyun that night, using her as bait to track down and eliminate the bandit group.


    While this n did involve using Mu Bingyun as bait, it was ultimately for her protection, to eradicate the threatpletely, and to improve the safety of Wuqi Mountain.


    If Lan Chang''an chose to ignore the situation and do nothing, Mu Bingyun would still be at risk, especially with the mark on her. Even if she left during the day, she had several days¡¯ journey back to Feiyue Lake, during which the enemy could still find an opportunity to strike at night.


    "I have no objections to your n, Fellow Daoist Lan," Fairy Shi said after some thought. "But this must be done in secret. The fewer people involved, the better. We can¡¯t guarantee there aren¡¯t any hidden moles among the loose cultivators living in Wuqi Mountain."


    "What are you suggesting?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "Just the two of us should be enough. Let¡¯s have Ye Fei stay behind to watch over Wuqi Mountain," Fairy Shi proposed.


    "That works," Lan Chang''an agreed, casting a nce at her.


    Fairy Shi was clearly confident in her abilities, likely believing herself to be stronger than mostte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    After all, when faced with the wounded Fake-Dan cultivator Xiang Jinglong, Fairy Shi had remainedposed and confident.


    Lan Chang''an also had a history of repellingte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators and possessed second-rank puppets as well as thete-stage Earth Burrowing Rat. Fairy Shi likely held a high assessment of his strength.


    The two then walked side by side, entering the cave at Little Turtle Peak. To the outside observer, it appeared as though they were lovers meeting in secret...


    A quarter of an hourter.


    The two of them, d in ck robes, flew low across the night sky several hundred li south of Wuqi Mountain.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Mu Bingyun has already traveled quite some distance. How are you keeping track of her?" Fairy Shi asked.


    "The Earth Burrowing Rat memorized her scent and is already on the trail, shadowing her to keep her safe," Lan Chang''an exined.


    Before she left, the Earth Burrowing Rat brushing against Mu Bingyun¡¯s skirt wasn¡¯t just a sign of affection.


    "Remembering her scent? You certainly are considerate and attentive when ites to this female junior of yours," Fairy Shi teased with a smirk.


    At that moment, several waves of Foundation Establishment-level spiritual energy suddenly red up in the distant night sky, apanied by a clear cry.

 Chapter 170: Battle at the Lake

    Chapter 170: Battle at the Lake


    After leaving Wuqi Mountain, Mu Bingyun heeded Uncle Lan''s advice and remained vignt throughout her journey.


    Suddenly, as she flew over ake, two waves of water erupted beneath her, lifting two Foundation Establishment cultivators into the air.


    One was a burly, one-eyed middle-aged man at mid-stage Foundation Establishment, and the other was a woman in a translucent purple gauze dress, clearly at the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Without a word, the two cultivatorsunched a vicious attack.


    The one-eyed man summoned a dull, grinding stone-like weapon. It spun rapidly, emitting a dull, gray light, apanied by a heavy, whistling sound as it hurtled toward Mu Bingyun.


    The pressure it exerted made Mu Bingyun''s blood hum, her body inexplicably feeling heavier. She instantly realized that this was no ordinary weapon.


    "Bold rogue cultivators!" she eximed.


    With a wave of her delicate hand, a silver streak shot from her sleeve¡ªa crescent-shaped silver dagger, trailing a de of light several zhang long. It sliced through the air, aiming directly at the dull gray millstone.ng! Screeeeech!


    The silver de met the spinning millstone, its light quickly dimming as it ground against the revolving stone, producing a grating, teeth-on-edge sound.


    Meanwhile, the woman in the purple gauze dress twisted her waist, sending out a purple ribbon that emitted a faint mist, resembling a coiling serpent. The ribbon circled downwards, attempting to entangle Mu Bingyun.


    Mu Bingyun''s expression shifted as she rapidly retreated, narrowly avoiding the tightening loops of the purple ribbon.


    She quickly pped a second-rank anti-poison talisman onto herself, blocking the faint mist emitted by the ribbon, but she still felt a slight dizziness in her head.


    "Tsk tsk, the famous Ice Yun Fairy of the Mu Family, even more stunning than that wench Pei Qiuyan. Today was worth it," the one-eyed man sneered, his mana surging as he increased the pressure, causing the gray millstone to spin even faster.


    "You know the identity of thisdy, yet you still dare to attack me? Are you not afraid of the Mu Family''s and Wuqi Mountain''s retaliation?" Mu Bingyun asked, her voice steady as she fought and retreated, asionally throwing out a second-rank talisman to ease the pressure.


    The one-eyed man''s gray millstone was relentless, weighing her down and forcing her to expend extra effort to maintain her mobility. The purple ribbon was closing in, making it difficult to break out of the encirclement.


    "The Mu Family is just an ordinary Foundation Establishment family, not worth mentioning. Our boss can make you guys go extinct with one move," the purple-gauze woman sneered, her tone both mocking and seductive, designed to unsettle Mu Bingyun.


    "And as for that cowardly Turtle Talisman Master of Wuqi Mountain, do you really think he''d stick his neck out for you? Once you disappear, no one will bother to investigate."


    "Who are you people? What¡¯s your rtionship with ''Night Fisherman''?" Mu Bingyun''s heart sank as she fought on.


    Hearing them mention their "boss" gave her a sense of impending doom. If it was just these two, she had a few tricks up her sleeve that might help her escape. But if they had a notoriouste-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator like Night Fisherman on their side...


    "Miss Mu, did I hear you calling for this old man?" a low, raspy voice suddenly sounded from behind her.


    "Not good!" Mu Bingyun''s blood ran cold, her face paling as she turned.


    A powerful pressure enveloped her, filled with a chilling intent, emanating from a lean figure wearing a ck veil and hat who had appeared behind her.


    With a dry, withered hand, the figure raised a ck rod, which then transformed into a dense forest of ck shadows that descended upon Mu Bingyun with a swift, crushing force.


    Bang! Crack!


    In desperation, Mu Bingyun hastily summoned a top-grade defensive weapon and pped out a superior second-rank defensive talisman. But the ck rod easily shattered her weapon and mmed into her talisman, dimming its protective light to near extinction.


    Mu Bingyun let out a muffled groan as her body was sent flying sideways.


    "The boss''s moves are something else," the woman in the purple gauze dress said, her tone filled with admiration and ttery as she controlled her purple ribbon, aiming to bind Mu Bingyun''s lower body.


    "So fast?" The veiled figure raised the ck rod again but suddenly frowned.


    Whoosh!


    A sharp sound cut through the air from the direction of Wuqi Mountain, apanied by the aura of two more Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Smack! Ssh!


    Mu Bingyun''s protective talisman was struck by the purple ribbon, its light flickering dangerously as it teetered on the brink of copse.


    "We''re almost there! Let''s capture her quickly!" The woman in purple was overjoyed, certain of victory.


    Mu Bingyun gritted her teeth, secretly preparing the top-grade talisman that Uncle Lan had given her.


    Suddenly, a waterline shot up from theke below.


    A sharp, fang-like yellow sh appeared, slicing through the air with lightning speed, heading straight for the purple-gauze woman.


    "Yan''er, watch out!" the veiled man shouted in rm, being the first to notice the attack, but it was toote.


    "Ahh..." The woman let out a scream as the yellow fang cut through her from below, splitting her body in two, a look of disbelief frozen on her face as she fell toward theke.


    "Ate-stage second-rank Earth Burrowing Rat! How did it get here...?" the veiled man muttered, his raspy voice tinged with disbelief.


    He had been distracted by the approaching reinforcements and hadn''t anticipated the presence of a lurking spirit beast nearby.


    With the purple-gauze woman dead, the pressure on Mu Bingyun eased, and a path to escape opened up.


    "Earth Burrowing Rat!" she cried out in surprise and joy, diving into theke to reunite with the familiar spirit beast from Little Turtle Peak.


    However, the Earth Burrowing Rat ignored her.


    With a loud ssh, it shot out of the water like a cannonball, surrounded by a whirlwind of yellow sand, and charged directly at the veiled man.


    At the same time, a top-level flying vessel carried Shi Manrong and Lan Chang''an into the fray.


    ...


    "Retreat!" the veiled man shouted, swinging his ck rod to conjure another forest of shadows that shed with the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat nimbly dodged the attacks, taking on minor injuries but stubbornly clinging to the veiled man, refusing to let him escape.


    "Well done!" Shi Manrong praised, raising her arm to reveal a naturally carved white jade bracelet on her wrist.


    Swish! Buzz!


    The white jade bracelet blurred through the air, expanding into a 110-foot radiant white ring that locked onto the veiled man from above.


    "Sss! This is..." The veiled man, who had reached the peak of thete Foundation Establishment stage, felt his mind searing, his body heating up as though it were being roasted alive.


    "Is this an exotic treasure?"


    Lan Chang''an was equally astonished. The item Shi Manrong had just unleashed was at least a quasi-third-tier exotic treasure.


    The veiled man had to channel his mana to protect his entire body, or else he risked being incinerated.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat seized the opportunity to unleash a "Sandstorm Technique," enveloping the veiled man in a vortex of twenty zhang of violent yellow sand. The grating sound of the sand shing with his protective barrier filled the air.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t rush to attack, instead maneuvering a mid-second-rank flying puppet overhead, ready to intercept any attempt by the veiled man to break free.


    "Get over here and help me!" the veiled man growled, his voice hoarse with anger as he summoned a ck umbre supreme-grade magic weapon, forming a barrier of ck mes around himself.


    The one-eyed man, clearly terrified and under some sort of restriction, had no choice but to obey. He gritted his teeth and hurled his gray millstone at Shi Manrong on the flying vessel.


    Lan Chang''an quickly intervened, summoning the Vajra Bell supreme-grade magic weapon.


    The massive bell rang out with a deafening chime as it intercepted the gray millstone.


    "I''ll help you, Uncle Lan," Mu Bingyun called out, emerging from theke with her drenched skirt clinging to her graceful figure.


    She summoned her silver crescent dagger, sending a crescent moon-shaped sh of cold light at the one-eyed man from the side, teaming up with Lan Chang''an.


    Together, they overwhelmed the one-eyed man, leaving him in a desperate state, barely able to fend them off.


    "Even using the same grade of weapons, Uncle Lan handles them with such ease and power, far beyond what I can manage," Mu Bingyun thought as they fought side by side, realizing the gap between them and learning much from the experience.


    If it were a one-on-one battle, Uncle Lan would undoubtedly defeat the one-eyed man, who was already more formidable than Mu Bingyun herself.


    Lan Chang''an knew this was a rarebat experience for Mu Bingyun and wanted her to learn from it. However, seeing that Shi Manrong and the Earth Burrowing Rat had not yet secured a decisive advantage, he decided not to drag the fight out.


    As the one-eyed man fought desperately, Lan Chang''an spotted an opening and quickly formed a seal with his hands, casting a spell on theke below.


    Whooosh!


    A pir of water more than ten zhang high burst forth from theke below, bursting with mighty force like a raging tidal wave, forcing the one-eyed man into a corner.


    With three sides closing in on him, the one-eyed man let out a furious roar, swallowed by the waves generated by two supreme-grade magical weapons and a water element spell, screaming until death swiftly imed him.


    "By leveraging geographical features, the simple water element spell''s power was increased by a few degrees, trapping and killing the enemy," Mu Bingyun looked on and gained insight in terms ofbat experience and technique.


    ...


    The female cultivator in purple gauze and the one-eyed man both met their end one after the other.


    Only the veiled man with the hat, who was suspected to be the "Night Fisherman," remained.


    "This person''s power is deep, not like that of a loose cultivator."


    Lan Chang''an observed carefully.


    Fairy Shi had used an exotic treasure to lock down and suppress him. She had also summoned a supreme-grade magical weapon and, along with the Earth Burrowing Rat, had teamed up against the man. Even so, they still couldn''t break his defenses in a short time.


    "The two Peak Masters, I admit defeat today." The veiled man spoke in a hoarse voice.


    "If you¡¯re willing to let this go, this old man can make an oath to stay away from the area surrounding Wuqi Mountain and will nevere to seek revenge."


    "What if we refuse?" Lan Chang''an smiled.


    "I will pay the price and carve a bloody path out."


    The veiled man spoke with a low, confident tone, enduring the searing pain brought on by the exotic treasure.


    "Then let¡¯s see you try."


    Lan Chang''an flicked his finger, and therge golden-bronze bell, about six to seven zhang tall, descended over the Night Fisherman¡¯s head.


    "Lan Chang''an, you will regret this."


    The veiled man spoke with a cold voice. His body shuddered, and the magic within him suddenly surged, increasing by several times over histe-stage Foundation Establishment level.


    Boom!


    The clothing on his chest tore open, and a in-looking golden cauldron, about the size of an infant''s head, flew out.


    As soon as it appeared, it madly absorbed the surrounding magical energy, exuding an almost terrifying spiritual pressure akin to a real magical treasure.


    "A prototype magical treasure!"


    Both Fairy Shi and Lan Chang''an were visibly moved.


    Lan Chang''an immediately transmitted a message, instructing Mu Bingyun to retreat a safe distance.


    Just as he finished giving instructions, the prototype magical treasure cauldron in front of the veiled man burst into golden, ss-like patterns.


    In the void, a sh of dazzling golden light streaked by.


    ng! Crack!


    Lan Chang''an''s supreme-grade magical weapon, the Vajra Bell, was knocked aside, its spiritual light dimming instantly. A crack appeared on its surface as it fell to the ground.


    After this strike, the golden prototype magical treasure cauldron''s radiance dimmed by two or threeyers.


    The golden light then struck Fairy Shi''s supreme-grade magical weapon, causing it to break and fall to the ground as well. Its radiance dimmed by four or fiveyers.


    Spurt!


    The veiled man spat out a mouthful of essence blood, whichnded on the prototype magical treasure cauldron. He then madly infused it with more mana, causing its light to recover by more than half.


    Lan Chang''an became wary and distanced himself further.


    The veiled man didn¡¯t even nce at him.


    Whoosh!


    The prototype magical treasure cauldron turned into a streak of golden light, aiming directly at the greatest threat in the sky¡ªFairy Shi''s white jade bracelet exotic treasure.


    "Go!"


    Arge blue talisman appeared in Fairy Shi''s jade-like hand, with a vividly depicted ice spear engraved on it.


    "A talismanic treasure."


    Lan Chang''an''s heart steadied. Fairy Shi''s means were indeed powerful enough to serve as the main force of the mountain.


    A battle between a talismanic treasure and a prototype magical treasure was an extremely rare sight in the world of cultivation.

 Chapter 171: The Waters Run Deep

    Chapter 171: The Waters Run Deep


    The ice spear engraved on the blue talismanic treasure was so lifelike that it seemed as if it would leap out at any moment. The aura it emitted made even those at the Foundation Establishment stage tremble with fear.


    Fairy Shi formed a hand seal, and her jade-like finger pointed forward.


    Blue light burst forth, and therge talisman transformed into an ice spear, crystal blue in color and several zhang long.


    Boom!


    The golden light emanating from the prototype magical treasure cauldron shed in mid-air with the crystal blue ice spear surrounded by chilling winds.


    The resulting thunderous explosion caused Mu Bingyun, who had already retreated a distance away, to feel her blood churn. She staggered, almost losing her bnce, her eardrums on the verge of rupture.


    The powerful shockwave stirred up fierce waves on theke''s surface.


    At the point of impact between the golden magical treasure and the crystal blue ice spear, one side was filled with golden ripples of light, while the other was engulfed in icy blue frost and cold winds.For a brief moment, the two forces were at a standstill.


    The veiled man grunted, his robes billowing as his magical power surged like a flood.


    With a loud "bang," the crystal blue ice spear, transformed from the talismanic treasure, was knocked back several zhang.


    The prototype magical treasure cauldron dipped downward, its brilliance dimming by more than half. But under the infusion of the man¡¯s blood essence and magic power, its aura began to rise once more.


    "Now''s my chance."


    Lan Chang''an did not retreat. Instead, he summoned a supreme-grade magic weapon, a long de, and shed at the veiled man from the side.


    He knew well that when someone in thete Foundation Establishment stage takes control of a prototype magical treasure, they cannot handle other magic weapons.


    Meanwhile, the Earth Burrowing Rat continued to use its Sandstorm Technique, waiting for an opportunity to sneak behind the veiled man.


    At the same time, a mid-grade second-rank flying puppet pped its wings, creating a whirlwind in the sky, blocking his path.


    "Persistent as ghosts!"


    The veiled man gritted his teeth, feeling a headache.


    The previous disy of the embryonic form of his magical treasure had not scared Lan Chang''an in the slightest.


    Now, if he used the prototype magical treasure to contend with Fairy Shi''s talismanic treasure, he would have no energy left to deal with the three-pronged attack from Lan Chang''an, the Earth Burrowing Rat, and the puppet.


    Fairy Shi gave him no chance to breathe. The ice spear talismanic treasure, apanied by a biting cold wind, pierced straight at him.


    The veiled man had no choice but to control the prototype magical treasure cauldron to face the talismanic treasure head-on.


    His spiritual sense and magic power were both tied up with the prototype magical treasure, leaving him no energy to control any other magic weapons. In desperation, he reluctantly summoned a quasi-third-rank defensive talisman.


    A thick, sticky, spherical water barrier enveloped the veiled man.


    Sizzling sounds echoed as thebined attacks of Lan Chang''an, the Earth Burrowing Rat, and the puppet were absorbed and nullified by the viscous spherical water barrier.


    The water barrier, having endured the attacks of three mid-tote Foundation Establishment cultivators, dimmed by about thirty to forty percent.


    Boom!


    At the same time, the prototype magical treasure cauldron once again knocked away the ice spear talismanic treasure.


    The veiled man no longer cared about the now-dim golden light.


    Under the protection of the water barrier, he formed hand seals, burning his blood essence. His mana surged and evaporated intensely.


    Buzz!


    Ayer of blood-colored radiance enveloped his body, and under his legs, blood-colored mes flickered and trembled.


    "He intends to escape!"


    Fairy Shi''s expression changed slightly, and she let out a low cry.


    The talismanic treasure she wielded had just been repelled, and its light had dimmed by more than half. If she tried tounch another attack, it would be toote to stop his escape technique.


    A talismanic treasure, being a hybrid between a talisman and a magical treasure, is harder to control and slower to activate than a simple talisman.


    "Blood Shadow Escape?"


    Lan Chang''an immediately flicked out a dark red talisman, striking the nearly-dimmed viscous spherical barrier.


    Whoosh! Boom!


    A fiery serpent, seven to eight zhang long, apanied by zing light, fiercely collided with the viscous spherical water barrier.


    This was a top-grade second-rank fire-type attack talisman, which dimmed the viscous spherical barrier to the point of near-copse.


    Fairy Shi seized the opportunity to cast her spell, fully igniting the exotic treasure white jade bracelet in the sky, finally shattering the viscous spherical barrier.


    "Jie Jie Jie... toote! When this old man wants to leave, he leaves!"


    In the blink of an eye, the veiled man had alreadypleted his escape technique. His entire form turned into a blood shadow and, with a speed surpassing that of a Fake-Dan cultivator, soared into the sky.


    "Explode!"


    Lan Chang''an, expressionless,manded the mid-grade second-rank flying puppet to self-destruct above the man''s head.


    Boom!


    The mid-grade second-rank puppet exploded, sending sparks and fragments flying, delivering an attackparable to that of ate Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The blood shadow tore through the explosion, letting out an angry roar as it tumbled through the sky, almost plummeting down.


    Puff!


    A mouthful of congealed blood, mixed with a few pieces of flesh, fell onto theke''s surface.


    The blood shadow barely managed to stabilize itself before darting into the clouds, quickly distancing itself from Lan Chang''an and the other two.


    "Cough, cough! Lan Chang''an... I''ll remember today''s grudge."


    A sinister, raspy voice echoed from the horizon.


    The blood shadow grew smaller and smaller as it disappeared into the distance.


    ...


    Squeak! Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat leaped onto theke''s surface, sniffing the bloodstains and devouring the few scattered pieces of flesh.


    "Fairy Shi, this person is severely injured. After enduring a bitter battle, controlling the prototype magical treasure, and burning his blood essence and lifespan to use the Blood Shadow Escape, his vitality is greatly depleted. He won''t get far."


    Lan Chang''an nced in the direction where the blood shadow disappeared and spoke calmly.


    "Mm, he can at most escape a few hundred li." Fairy Shi nodded.


    Lan Chang''an boarded Fairy Shi''s top-tier second-rank flying boat, nning to use the Earth Burrowing Rat''s sense of smell to track the enemy.


    As for Mu Bingyun, she was still in decent condition, so Lan Chang''an instructed her to return to Wuqi Mountain first.


    Aside from the Night Fisherman, there were no other significant threats in the surrounding area.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi piloted the flying boat, following the scent for over a hundred li.


    Above a certain canyon, the flying boat came to a halt.


    Squeak! Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat hesitated, looking up at the sky, where three faint blood-colored trails extended in different directions.


    "Fairy Shi, that Night Fisherman is skilled in tracking techniques and has mastered another blood-rted secret technique rted to Blood Shadow Escape, allowing him to create multiple decoy trails." Lan Chang''an pondered.


    "Such advanced secret techniques are not something an ordinary loose cultivator could have learned." Fairy Shi remarked in surprise.


    Lan Chang''an agreed with this point.


    The Night Fisherman''s magic power was deep, and the techniques he practiced even surpassed those of typical sect cultivators.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t have been able to escape from the encirclement of Fairy Shi, Lan Chang''an, and the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Although Lan Chang''an had held back earlier, his coordination with the puppet still yed a significant role, second only to ate Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Given the situation, we should split up and pursue him."


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi quickly agreed on a strategy.


    Fairy Shi, Lan Chang''an, and the Earth Burrowing Rat each pursued one of the trails.


    In the Night Fisherman''s weakened state, with his life force drained and vitality severely depleted, his strength had fallen below fifty percent, possibly even weaker.


    If Fairy Shi encountered him, she could likely take him down alone.


    If Lan Chang''an or the Earth Burrowing Rat found him, they only needed to stall him without engaging directly and wait for reinforcements.


    To facilitatemunication, Lan Chang''an handed Fairy Shi a second-rank sensory talisman.


    This talisman was divided into Yin and Yang halves and could not transmit specific messages. However, if one half was activated within a thousand li, the other would sense it.


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi each chose a direction to pursue.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat took the remaining direction.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an flew out for more than ten miles in the chosen direction before noticing that the aura gradually faded.


    It seemed that he had been misled by a false shadow''s aura.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had considerable expertise in the art of tracking and trusted his own judgment.


    A drop of blood-red crystal the size of a grain of rice appeared in his palm. With the other hand, he formed a seal, closed his eyes, and began to sense.


    The blood-red crystal hummed and trembled, consuming a portion of both his magical energy and spiritual sense.


    A momentter, Lan Chang''an put away the blood-red crystal, revealing a look of surprise as he gazed southeast, in the direction leading to the hearnd of the Liang Kingdom.


    The Night Fisherman didn¡¯t flee to a remote area?


    Lan Chang''an activated the Evergreen Technique to conceal his aura and, relying mainly on his physical strength, skimmed low across the sky.


    Every so often, he would merge his mind with the Nine Seal Stele, using his spiritual sense at the Immortal level to scan the surrounding several li.


    "Found him."


    Lan Chang''an discovered the traces of the Night Fisherman in an abandoned vige.


    The many in a cer beneath the ruins, his aura weak and indistinct, as if in a state of hibernation. His life force was so faint it was almost like an ant¡¯s.


    Even an ordinary Fake-Dan Immortal might overlook him without careful inspection.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s thoughts raced, considering several methods to kill the opponent without engaging in a direct confrontation.


    For example, he could quietly release a colorless, odorless poison. Given the opponent''s weakened state, he would surely be unable to withstand it. Alternatively, he could manipte a puppet to approach and kill him up close.


    If he wanted to keep things simple, he could sneak close and suddenly attack with a treasure talisman.


    However, the power of a treasure talisman might be too strong, and damage the loot.


    "Hmm?"


    Lan Chang''an suddenly felt a disturbance and looked towards the southeast.


    A dozen breathster.


    A streak of light from a Foundation Establishment cultivator cautiously flew through the night.


    It was a tall, burly man dressed in ck, trying his best to restrain his magical power fluctuations, yet he could not escape Lan Chang''an¡¯s senses.


    His cultivation had reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment. Though his spiritual power wasn¡¯t as abundant as the Night Fisherman¡¯s, it was more refined.


    "Is it him?"


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense swept over the man, seeing through his disguise. The man¡¯s physique and bones had both been altered.


    ...


    "Senior Brother Zhuo?" The man in cknded in front of the ruins and spoke in a low voice.


    "Junior Brother Song, pleasee in."


    From within the cer came a weak male voice,pletely different from the previously hoarse and aged tone.


    The man in ck moved aside a stone b, entered the cer, and then blocked the entrance again.


    The veiled man removed his hat, revealing a pale, bloodless face with fierce eyebrows and tiger-like eyes. He appeared to be around forty years old.


    The man in ck''s face and physique changed, returning to the appearance of a refined and elegant young man.


    "Senior Brother Zhuo, how did you get so severely injured?" Song Wenshu asked with concern.


    "It was Wuqi Mountain..." Senior Brother Zhuo gritted his teeth slightly, his eyes filled with resentment.


    After hearing the whole story, Song Wenshu sighed softly, "Senior Brother Zhuo, didn''t I tell you before? In my patrol area, as long as you don''t target cultivators with influential backgrounds, you''ll have nothing to worry about."


    "The three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain are not pushovers. I mentioned this to you before. Besides, Junior Brother here has decent rtions with them..."


    "Senior brother misjudged. I initially thought that the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain were, at best, slightly stronger loose cultivators, without any significant background." Senior Brother Zhuo sighed, exining.


    "Moreover, I didn¡¯t directly attack anyone from Wuqi Mountain. Although Mu Bingyun has some connections with that ''Turtle Talisman Master'' Lan Chang''an, the man is cowardly and avoids conflict. As long as there are no obvious loose ends, it shouldn¡¯t be an issue."


    "Mu Bingyun is an exceptionally rare female cultivator. If I offered her up, it might have pleased that person..."


    Hearing this, Song Wenshu pondered for a moment.


    From Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s perspective, there were indeed no significant mistakes; it was purely bad luck.


    "Mu Bingyun was just bait, and you fell for it. Wuqi Mountain probably wanted to eliminate you all along."


    "Tonight, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong''s tryst in the cave mansion, I''m afraid it might have been staged for your spies to see."


    As an outsider, Song Wenshu quickly pieced together the cause and effect.


    "Forget it, I was careless. I¡¯ll ept my loss today. I''ll find another opportunity in the future..."


    Senior Brother Zhuo smiled bitterly, temporarily suppressing his killing intent.


    Song Wenshu handed a few bottles of healing pills to Senior Brother Zhuo and arranged a safe ce for him.


    "The identity of the Night Fisherman should not be used again for the next ten years. Find a quiet ce to recuperate."


    "Remember, in the me Departing Pce, you¡¯re already considered ''dead''. If you let the other elders find out about your situation, not even the Pce Master will be able to protect you." Song Wenshu warned.


    "Junior Brother Song, this is your share for the past year."


    Senior Brother Zhuo chuckled, tossing a storage pouch over.

 Chapter 172: Speed Is the Key

    Chapter 172: Speed Is the Key


    Song Wenshu took the storage pouch and with a sweep of his spiritual sense, a smile appeared on his face for the first time. Just the portion of the profits he received from this operation was ten times what he earned from his sry in the me Departing Pce.


    "Junior Brother Song, you have more connections within the me Departing Pce. Could you help me acquire a talismanic treasure, even if it''s one that''s partially used," Senior Brother Zhuo requested after consuming a healing pill.


    Although a prototype magical treasure is powerful and has no limitations on the number of times it could be used, it is quite taxing for someone at thete Foundation Establishment stage, especially in terms of the burden it ces on one''s spiritual sense.


    Earlier, when his magical treasure prototype was tied up by Fairy Shi''s talismanic treasure, he was unable to wield any other magical weapons. Even using high-quality offensive talismans became strenuous, forcing him to rely solely on defensive talismans.


    The advantage of a talismanic treasure is that it requires only a small amount of spiritual power to activate and is less taxing on the spiritual sensepared to a magical treasure prototype. However, the downside is that talismanic treasures have limited uses and are not very cost-effective.


    "Getting one through regr channels is difficult," Song Wenshu shook his head. "Each talismanic treasure corresponds to a Core Formation cultivator''s magic treasure, and they are all traceable. I only have one, which I keep for self-defense while on patrol."


    Even if he went to great lengths to get a talismanic treasure, if Senior Brother Zhuo were to use it for future offenses outside, wouldn''t it expose him?


    "Here, take this quasi-third-rank escape talisman, Senior Brother Zhuo. It should be useful," Song Wenshu said, taking out a talisman."Thank you, Junior Brother Song," Senior Brother Zhuo replied with a smile, epting the talisman and handing Song Wenshu a pouch filled with spirit stones.


    A quasi-third-rank escape talisman was equivalent to the capabilities of a Fake-Dan level Immortal. If he had possessed this talisman earlier, he wouldn¡¯t have had to pay the heavy price of burning his life force to use the Blood Shadow Escape.


    "So, how are your preparations for your Core Formation going?" Song Wenshu asked.


    "Not good. I can''t find the key materials. I¡¯m just gambling on the ck market, and so far, I¡¯ve only managed to acquire less than thirty percent of what I need..." Senior Brother Zhuo replied with a bitter smile. "It''s different for you, Junior Brother Song. With the backing of the me Departing Pce and support from higher-ups, as long as you save enough spirit stones and contributions, it''s much easier to obtain the Crystal Condensation Pill and other Core Formation spiritual items."


    ...


    A few li away, Lan Chang''an listened carefully to their conversation.


    "Good thing I held back earlier, the water here is a bit deep."


    During his fight with the Night Fisherman, he had already sensed that this person''s cultivation technique was far from ordinary, perhaps even surpassing that of Jin Yun Valley¡¯s elite Foundation Establishment cultivator, Zhao Siyao. This waspletely unlike a loose cultivator.


    The coboration between the righteous and the dark side was something Lan Chang''an had seen frequently in his past life, so it didn¡¯t surprise him.


    Judging from their conversation, Song Wenshu and the fleeing "Night Fisherman" had a close rtionship.


    Song Wenshu had considerable influence within the me Departing Pce, although he might not be a direct disciple of an inner sect elder, but certainly someone with ties to the higher-ups.


    The strength and techniques Lan Chang''an disyed earlier were already at the limit of what a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator should be capable of.


    Having only been a second-rank superior-grade talisman master for a few years, it would have been inappropriate for him to take out any quasi-third-rank talismans, which are equivalent to Fake-Dan cultivators or talismanic treasures.


    Unlike Fairy Shi, who had been in thete Foundation Establishment stage for many years and was already known as a quasi-third-rank formation master, Lan Chang''an was only a superior second-rank on the surface. If not for the limitations of her cultivation, her actual attainments might beparable to a third-rank formation master.


    If he had gone overboard just now and killed the Night Fisherman, he would most likely make Song Wenshu harbor a grudge, and might even enter the line of sight of the higher-ups of the me Departing Pce.


    ...


    In the underground cer within the ruins, Song Wenshu and Senior Brother Zhuo were wrapping up their conversation.


    "It''s not wise for you to appear in public right now, so in a few days, I''ll visit Wuqi Mountain to help you feel out their stance. I believe they won''t dwell on this matter," Song Wenshu said as he stood up.


    "Alright, it''s not safe to stay here any longer. I''ll find a ce to heal up. After a few years, I''ll return to the area under your patrol, Junior Brother Song," Senior Brother Zhuo said with a chuckle, his spiritual power having recovered somewhat.


    Song Wenshu was the first to return to the surface, cautiously scanning the surroundings to cover Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s exit.


    "They haven''t caught up after all this time. It seems the two peak masters of Wuqi Mountain were misled or have given up," Senior Brother Zhuo nced in the direction of Wuqi Mountain, barely able to conceal the hatred in his heart.


    Song Wenshu wanted to offer some words of caution but ultimately sighed and remained silent. Knowing Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s vengeful nature, any attempt to dissuade him would be futile; he was certain to seek revenge on Wuqi Mountain in the future.


    Song Wenshu escorted Senior Brother Zhuo for several hundred li before they parted ways at a mountain range.


    Song Wenshu then returned to thew enforcement cultivator''s station, while Senior Brother Zhuo flew toward the northeastern region of Liang Kingdom, heading toward the territory of the Mo Family, one of the seven great families.


    He changed his appearance, removing his hat and ck robe, and transformed into a well-dressed young man in his twenties with a handsome, jade-like face.


    ...


    The night had passed, and it was now dawn.


    Half an hour after parting from Song Wenshu, Senior Brother Zhuo, still not fully healed, was flying at a speed only slightly faster than that of an early Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Suddenly, the sound of something slicing through the air approached from ahead. A streak of light drew closer at a steady pace.


    Senior Brother Zhuo grew wary.


    After sensing that the approaching figure had the spiritual power of an early Foundation Establishment cultivator, he rxed slightly.


    In his current condition, he might struggle against an experienced mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, requiring the use of his trump cards to win. An early Foundation Establishment cultivator, however, posed much less of a threat and was unlikely to be associated with the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain.


    As the streak of light drew nearer, Senior Brother Zhuo was taken aback.


    The approaching figure was a female cultivator dressed in ck robes, with a delicate and elegant appearance, her eyes as deep as autumn waters, and a graceful, alluring figure.


    "Pei Qiuyan?"


    Senior Brother Zhuo recognized her immediately.


    They had once chased the Pei siblings near Wuqi Mountain, but due to the intervention of me Departing Pce cultivators, the injured Pei Qiuyan had narrowly escaped.


    The ck-robed female cultivator looked unwell. Upon seeing Senior Brother Zhuo, she also appeared wary and cautiously distanced herself from him.


    Her cautious behavior lowered Senior Brother Zhuo''s guard.


    "This woman''s injuries don''t seem light..."


    His spiritual sense confirmed that she was indeed the same Pei Qiuyan he had pursued before, with no sign of deception.


    Unexpectedly encountering her while injured himself, Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s thoughts raced. If he were at full strength, he would have captured her without hesitation. But now, with his strength at less than fifty percent, it wasn¡¯t the right time to make a move.


    However, Pei Qiuyan was also injured, making her vulnerable. The chances of sessfully capturing her were high.


    This situation left him conflicted.


    Having such a beautiful woman to serve him during his recuperation would make his time in hiding much more bearable.


    In the end, reason barely prevailed.


    Senior Brother Zhuo reluctantly withdrew his spiritual sense and gaze. If he looked at her any longer, he feared he wouldn¡¯t be able to resist making a move.


    "Hmph! Lecher! What are you staring at?"


    The ck-robed beauty snapped, displeased with Senior Brother Zhuo''s probing gaze.


    Her voice, however, sounded coy and sultry, tinged with both reproach and allure in Senior Brother Zhuo''s ears.


    "Hm?"


    For a moment, Senior Brother Zhuo''s mind wavered, his heart burning with desire.


    In his vision, Pei Qiuyan suddenly appeared seductive, her hair disheveled, her dress half undone, revealingrge patches of her pale, smooth skin.


    "Wait! This is an illusion..."


    Even in his weakened state, Senior Brother Zhuo quickly realized what was happening and bit down hard on his tongue.


    The sharp pain helped him break free from the illusion.


    The next instant, he felt a fragrant wind rushing toward him at a terrifying speed, surpassing even that of a Fake-Dan Immortal.


    It was even faster than when he had used the Blood Shadow Escape.


    "You..."


    As the cold, beautiful face rapidly closed in, Senior Brother Zhuo''s heart skipped a beat, an indescribable sense of absurdity and terror washing over him.


    In a panic, he activated his protective barrier and reached for an item hidden in his sleeve.


    Boom! Crack!


    The protective barrier, strong enough to withstand attacks from a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, shattered like a bubble the moment it was struck by her "delicate fist."


    "Ah..."


    Senior Brother Zhuo screamed in agony as if struck by a human-shaped dragon. His entire body was thrown back dozens of zhang, the impact nearly knocking him unconscious, his mind going nk for a moment.


    Crack!


    His internal organs were ruptured, and his bones snapped.


    Through the intense pain, he coughed up blood, barely clinging to consciousness.


    Just as he was about to channel his mana, he found himself unable to do so.


    His dantian waspletely lifeless and unresponsive.


    "Don''t bother struggling. That punch has already crippled your cultivation."


    A cold female voice reached his ears.


    Before his body could hit the ground, it was caught by a woman''s hand, her fingers gripping his neck as she applied a restrictive spell on him.


    The ck-robed beauty floated in mid-air, a slightly oversized green talisman attached to her ribs, emanating spiritual energy that faintly surpassed the quasi-third rank.


    The woman before him, disguised as Pei Qiuyan, was obviously Lan Chang''an using the "Hundred Illusions Mask."


    This time, to capture a heavily injuredte Foundation Establishment cultivator, Lan Chang''an had tried a new approach.


    That approach was pure speed!


    Using a well-nurtured eleration talisman, his speed reached terrifying levels, and whenbined with histe-second-rank physical strength, the result was a highly effective ambush.


    Even if the target had a soul-protecting artifact and was fearless of the top second-rank Heart-Illusion Talisman, there was no escaping the deadly strike that came with the swiftness of a thunderbolt.


    ...


    "Who... who are you?" Senior Brother Zhuo asked, his voice filled with despair as he stared at the cold, beautiful woman in front of him.


    His cultivation had been crippled, and he was like a mortal being toyed around by an immortal cultivator''s spell, he felt his heart sink to the bottom of an abyss.


    His spirit was crushed as he stared intently at the cold, beautiful woman before him. All he wanted now was to know the truth.


    The real Pei Qiuyan, even if there was ten of her, they wouldn''t be a match for this woman in front of him.


    Her sheer physical strength alone wasparable to ate-second-rank demonic beast, and the speed she disyed surpassed even that of an ordinary Fake-Dan cultivator.


    "Who I am doesn''t matter," the ck-robed beauty said coldly as tapped Senior Brother Zhuo''s mute acupoint.


    She then removed his storage pouch and took out two talismans hidden in his sleeve.


    Both of these talismans turned out to be quasi-third-rank, including one escape talisman and one attack talisman.


    Just these two talismans alone were enough topensate Lan Chang''an for the losses he had incurred in today''s battle.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t immediately check Senior Brother Zhuo''s storage pouch. Given the Night Fisherman¡¯s reputation and his dealings with the righteous path, his wealth surely exceeded that of an ordinaryte Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    After confirming that Senior Brother Zhuo had no other hidden tricks, Lan Chang''an stuffed him into arge bup sack.


    After cleaning up the scene, Lan Chang''an quickly left the area with Senior Brother Zhuo in tow.


    From the moment he appeared to the moment he captured Senior Brother Zhuo, only a few breaths of time had passed, and there had been minimal disturbances during the brief skirmish.


    Lan Chang''an had kept a close watch with his spiritual sense, ensuring no other cultivators were in the vicinity.


    ...


    After flying for several hundred li, Lan Chang''an found a secluded spot where he finally began to break the restrictions on Senior Brother Zhuo''s storage pouch.


    Senior Brother Zhuo''s injuries were severe, and fearing he might die, Lan Chang''an even used his Evergreen Technique to treat his wounds.


    It wasn¡¯t out of kindness that he did this.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an had decided to proceed with caution and leave no loose ends.


    Thus, when he was certain that Senior Brother Zhuo held a grudge against him and would seek revenge in the future, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t hesitate to strike him down.


    Even knowing that Senior Brother Zhuo had connections with the me Departing Pce, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t shy away.


    The reason for capturing him alive rather than killing him outright was part of a calcted strategy.


    "Perhaps this man oncemitted some crime in the me Departing Pce and because he had a high-level background, he was able to muddle through by faking his death, now serving as a ck glove for certain individuals within the pce," Lan Chang''an inferred as much from Senior Brother Zhuo''s conversation with Song Wenshu.


    Since Senior Brother Zhuo wasn¡¯t officially part of the me Departing Pce anymore, there likely wasn¡¯t a soulmp tied to his life in the sect. He must have taken careful measures to erase his tracks.


    However, there¡¯s always a risk, however small.


    When dealing with a Nascent Soul-level sect like the me Departing Pce, Lan Chang''an knew he had to be meticulous.


    To ensure that Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s death could not be linked back to himself or Wuqi Mountain, Lan Chang''an needed to be thorough.


    If Senior Brother Zhuo died, it wouldplicate matters.


    No matter what, it would be difficult topletely clear all suspicion from Wuqi Mountain. After all, he had just been hunted by the peak masters of Wuqi Mountain and was left gravely injured.


    But capturing him alive changed everything!


    Lan Chang''an could now control the timing and location of Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s death.


    He could even carefully arrange the circumstances to ensure someone else took the fall for him.

 Chapter 173: Handling the Spoils

    Chapter 173: Handling the Spoils


    The restriction on Senior Brother Zhuo''s storage pouch was quickly broken.


    Lan Chang''an began to inventory the items inside, carefully screening for anything suspicious.


    Aside from a second-rankmunication talisman, there were no other tracking devices. Thismunication talisman didn''t have location-tracking capabilities. For now, it cannot be destroyed, as the corresponding talisman would detect that.


    There were fewer spirit stones than Lan Chang''an had expected¡ªonly a few thousand. However, the resources inside far exceeded his expectations.


    In addition to the golden magical treasure prototype, there were two supreme-grade magical weapons: one for offense and one for defense, both of the highest quality in their respective categories.


    "Are these materials for the Crystal Condensation Pill?" Lan Chang''an was most surprised by the ingredients for the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Earlier, during his conversation with Song Wenshu, Senior Brother Zhuo mentioned that he had only gathered about thirty percent of the materials needed for the Crystal Condensation Pill. However, the reality was that he had collected over seventy percent of the necessary ingredients.


    What was missing was a key main ingredient and two or three other materials. Among the auxiliary herbs, the most valuable one, the Fire Essence Date, had already been obtained and was stored in a jade box.No wonder Senior Brother Zhuo didn''t have many spirit stones left. Gathering seventy percent of the materials for the Crystal Condensation Pill, acquiring a magical treasure prototype, and obtaining quasi-third-rank talismans had consumed a vast amount of resources. Moreover, he had to surrender a portion of the spirit stones he plundered.


    "Good thing I decided to take him down. With these materials, if I can find the right connections, I already qualify to coborate on refining the Crystal Condensation Pill." Lan Chang''an was d to have made the decision to leave no loose ends.


    If Senior Brother Zhuo had sessfully formed his Core, the consequences would have been dire. Even though Lan Chang''an estimated that Zhuo would likely only achieve a Fake-Dan, an enemy at the Fake-Dan level in the open was one thing; a hidden adversary lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to take revenge, was an entirely different threat.


    Capturing Senior Brother Zhuo privately was the best decision Lan Chang''an made tonight. The greatest benefit wasn¡¯t just the resources he could now im for himself.


    If he had teamed up with Fairy Shi to kill Zhuo, they would have risked offending me Departing Pce cultivators, leaving behind unknown hidden dangers.


    ...


    An hourter, Lan Chang''an returned to theke where the battle had taken ce and met up with Fairy Shi. This was their prearranged meeting spot.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, did you find anything?" Fairy Shi, who had arrived before him, asked.


    Lan Chang''an shook his head. "I found some clues, but after following them, I found nothing of value. After that, I met up with the Earth Burrowing Rat, but it couldn''t track the target either."


    "Hmm, that ''Night Fisherman'' is indeed skilled in tracking and deception. It seems we''ve all been misled," Fairy Shi said, acknowledging that she hadn''t discovered anything either.


    "However, given his severe injuries and the damage to his lifespan, it''s unlikely he''ll dare toe near Wuqi Mountain again in the short term."


    Today''s battle had severely wounded the notorious Night Fisherman and killed two bandits at the Foundation Establishment Realm, effectively reasserting Wuqi Mountain''s deterrent power. In the future, most rogue cultivators would have to think twice before attempting to rob near the mountain.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, here are the spoils from killing the two rogue Foundation Establishment cultivators. Let''s split them equally." Fairy Shi took out two storage pouches and disyed the spirit stones and other items inside.


    The wealth of the two dead rogue cultivators was modest, but there were still two supreme-grade magical weapons, as well as other magic weapons, pills, and talismans. These were enough to cover their battle losses and even allow for a small profit.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s apparent losses included the self-destructed mid-grade second-rank puppet, a damaged supreme-grade magical weapon, and several talismans. From Fairy Shi''s perspective, his contribution was far from negligible, hence her proposal to split the spoils evenly.


    "Fairy Shi, I should only take thirty percent at most. You were the main force in tonight''s battle, you expended valuable talismanic treasure uses, and this matter started because of Bingyun..." Lan Chang''an insisted on reducing his share of the spoils.


    Considering the Earth Burrowing Rat''s contribution, his efforts weren¡¯t much less than Fairy Shi''s. However, Fairy Shi had helped both him and Mu Bingyun out of personal favor, which was significant.


    If she hadn''t severely injured Senior Brother Zhuo, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have been able to capture this well-knownte Foundation Establishment expert so easily.


    After some back and forth, Fairy Shi agreed to take sixty percent of the spoils, earning herself a tidy profit. She looked at Lan Chang''an with a touch of appreciation.


    Normally, Lan Chang''an was fair in his dealings, never taking more or less than his due. But she hadn¡¯t expected him to be so generous when it really mattered.


    ...


    By the time Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi returned to Wuqi Mountain, dawn was just breaking.


    Lan Chang''an had not brought the captured Senior Brother Zhuo with him.


    Firstly, carrying a living person was inconvenient, especially since they couldn''t be stored in a storage pouch as a corpse could. Secondly, he wanted to avoid any unexpected situations that might give him away.


    A notorious rogue cultivator like the Night Fisherman might attract the attention of Fake-Dan cultivators from a sect.


    Lan Chang''an had the Earth Burrowing Rat watch over Senior Brother Zhuo, hiding him underground near Wuqi Mountain. With his cultivation crippled and severe injuries, Zhuo posed no threat.


    "Uncle Lan."


    At Little Turtle Peak, Mu Bingyun stood on the mountaintop, her face filled with worry. When she saw the familiar white-robed figure returning, her smile bloomed like snow melting in winter.


    "Fairy Shi, Fellow Daoist Lan." Ye Fei arrived from Little Pill Peak.


    The three peak masters, along with Mu Bingyun, gathered in the cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak.


    After hearing the situation, Ye Fei had no objections to Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi''s private actions. After all, hunting down rogue cultivators was inherently risky, and with his strength being the weakest, it made the most sense for him to remain stationed at Wuqi Mountain.


    "The two of you made the right decision. After Miss Bingyun returned, I inspected Wuqi Mountain and identified a rogue cultivator''s spy."


    "A spy?" Lan Chang''an asked, knowing that if all three peak masters had left together, their movements might have alerted the Night Fisherman.


    "The spy was ate-stage Qi-Refining cultivator, skilled in disguise, who had reced one of the servant cultivators affiliated with Little Pill Peak..." Ye Fei exined the details.


    Since it was just a Qi-Refining cultivator, Lan Chang''an didn''t pay much attention. Wuqi Mountain, being a small trading hub, couldn¡¯t bepletely isted from the outside world, and the three peak masters still needed someborers.


    The affiliated cultivators of the three main peaks couldn¡¯t entirely prevent spies. Besides the affiliated cultivators, those guests who came to the mountain could also take on this role.


    Lan Chang''an only needed to ensure that there were no issues on his own Little Turtle Peak.


    "There is a dereliction of duty on the part of Wuqi Mountain''s steward, Lan Lin, and considering that she is already old and has served the mountain for most of her life, it might be best to dismiss her," Fairy Shi suggested.


    Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei had no objections. The steward was a trusted servant chosen by the previous owner of Little Pill Peak, Lin Ye. In recent years, she had aged considerably and her duties had mostly been taken over by her descendants.


    ...


    Half an hourter, the meeting concluded.


    In the cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an and Mu Bingyun sat facing each other.


    "Aboutst night, Uncle Lan did not ask for your permission," Lan Chang''an said, expressing his apology.


    By now, Mu Bingyun must have realized the truth¡ªthat she had been used as bait. Lan Chang''an decided to be upfront about it to avoid any lingering resentment.


    "Last night, when Uncle Lan and Fairy Shi arrived in time, I had already guessed it," Mu Bingyun said, her lips slightly pursed, her expression serene, though tinged with a hint of grievance.


    "Uncle Lan did it for my own good, to eliminate any future threats. If you hadn''t acted, I wouldn¡¯t have survived." Mu Bingyun understood the bigger picture, though she couldn¡¯t help but feel somewhat ufortable.


    "I''m d you understand," Lan Chang''an replied with a smile.


    In truth, neither of them owed the other anything. Lan Chang''an had saved Mu Bingyun, but he had also used her as bait, resolving a significant threat and gained a substantial reward for himself.


    "So, Uncle Lan didn¡¯t keep me overnight because he wanted to lure out the Night Fisherman," Mu Bingyun said, her eyes bright as she seriously studied Lan Chang''an, clearly concerned about this point.


    "Right," Lan Chang''an admitted. That was indeed the main reason. Last night, he had found an excuse not to let Mu Bingyun stay overnight in his cave.


    "So, Uncle Lan doesn¡¯t mind if I stay overnight at your ce," Mu Bingyun said with a soft smile, her dimples appearing as she spoke.


    Lan Chang''an hesitated for a moment, then quickly added, "Only asionally. Each peak on Wuqi Mountain is meant for a single Foundation Establishment cultivator."


    Mu Bingyun nodded. "I understand the rules of Wuqi Mountain, but if a Foundation Establishment visitor is not cultivating and doesn¡¯t ce any additional burden on the spiritual vein, it shouldn''t be an issue."


    Lan Chang''an was at a loss for words, surprised that Mu Bingyun had found such a loophole.


    That day, Mu Bingyun seemed to return to her former role as a maid, calmly and joyfully attending to the affairs of Little Turtle Peak, keeping busy throughout the day.


    That night, she stayed overnight in the cave on Little Turtle Peak, sleeping in the room she had once upied years ago.


    ...


    The next morning, Mu Bingyun rose early.


    After much deliberation, she finally mustered the courage to take out a letter she had personally written and ced it under her pillow.


    If Lan Chang''an entered her room, he might find the letter. If he didn¡¯t, he might never see it.


    Leaving the letter behind made her heart race, her cheeks flushing slightly.


    At dawn, as the sun began to rise, Mu Bingyun took her leave.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t try to stop her, nor did he go into her room.


    The restriction on Senior Brother Zhuo''s storage pouch was quickly broken.


    Lan Chang''an began to inventory the items inside, carefully screening for anything suspicious.


    Aside from a second-rankmunication talisman, there were no other tracking devices. Thismunication talisman didn''t have location-tracking capabilities. For now, it cannot be destroyed, as the corresponding talisman would detect that.


    There were fewer spirit stones than Lan Chang''an had expected¡ªonly a few thousand. However, the resources inside far exceeded his expectations.


    In addition to the golden magical treasure prototype, there were two supreme-grade magical weapons: one for offense and one for defense, both of the highest quality in their respective categories.


    "Are these materials for the Crystal Condensation Pill?" Lan Chang''an was most surprised by the ingredients for the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Earlier, during his conversation with Song Wenshu, Senior Brother Zhuo mentioned that he had only gathered about thirty percent of the materials needed for the Crystal Condensation Pill. However, the reality was that he had collected over seventy percent of the necessary ingredients.


    What was missing was a key main ingredient and two or three other materials. Among the auxiliary herbs, the most valuable one, the Fire Essence Date, had already been obtained and was stored in a jade box.


    No wonder Senior Brother Zhuo didn''t have many spirit stones left. Gathering seventy percent of the materials for the Crystal Condensation Pill, acquiring a magical treasure prototype, and obtaining quasi-third-rank talismans had consumed a vast amount of resources. Moreover, he had to surrender a portion of the spirit stones he plundered.


    "Good thing I decided to take him down. With these materials, if I can find the right connections, I already qualify to coborate on refining the Crystal Condensation Pill." Lan Chang''an was d to have made the decision to leave no loose ends.


    If Senior Brother Zhuo had sessfully formed his Core, the consequences would have been dire. Even though Lan Chang''an estimated that Zhuo would likely only achieve a Fake-Dan, an enemy at the Fake-Dan level in the open was one thing; a hidden adversary lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to take revenge, was an entirely different threat.


    Capturing Senior Brother Zhuo privately was the best decision Lan Chang''an made tonight. The greatest benefit wasn¡¯t just the resources he could now im for himself.


    If he had teamed up with Fairy Shi to kill Zhuo, they would have risked offending me Departing Pce cultivators, leaving behind unknown hidden dangers.


    ...


    An hourter, Lan Chang''an returned to theke where the battle had taken ce and met up with Fairy Shi. This was their prearranged meeting spot.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, did you find anything?" Fairy Shi, who had arrived before him, asked.


    Lan Chang''an shook his head. "I found some clues, but after following them, I found nothing of value. After that, I met up with the Earth Burrowing Rat, but it couldn''t track the target either."


    "Hmm, that ''Night Fisherman'' is indeed skilled in tracking and deception. It seems we''ve all been misled," Fairy Shi said, acknowledging that she hadn''t discovered anything either.


    "However, given his severe injuries and the damage to his lifespan, it''s unlikely he''ll dare toe near Wuqi Mountain again in the short term."


    Today''s battle had severely wounded the notorious Night Fisherman and killed two bandits at the Foundation Establishment Realm, effectively reasserting Wuqi Mountain''s deterrent power. In the future, most rogue cultivators would have to think twice before attempting to rob near the mountain.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, here are the spoils from killing the two rogue Foundation Establishment cultivators. Let''s split them equally." Fairy Shi took out two storage pouches and disyed the spirit stones and other items inside.


    The wealth of the two dead rogue cultivators was modest, but there were still two supreme-grade magical weapons, as well as other magic weapons, pills, and talismans. These were enough to cover their battle losses and even allow for a small profit.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s apparent losses included the self-destructed mid-grade second-rank puppet, a damaged supreme-grade magical weapon, and several talismans. From Fairy Shi''s perspective, his contribution was far from negligible, hence her proposal to split the spoils evenly.


    "Fairy Shi, I should only take thirty percent at most. You were the main force in tonight''s battle, you expended valuable talismanic treasure uses, and this matter started because of Bingyun..." Lan Chang''an insisted on reducing his share of the spoils.


    Considering the Earth Burrowing Rat''s contribution, his efforts weren¡¯t much less than Fairy Shi''s. However, Fairy Shi had helped both him and Mu Bingyun out of personal favor, which was significant.


    If she hadn''t severely injured Senior Brother Zhuo, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have been able to capture this well-knownte Foundation Establishment expert so easily.


    After some back and forth, Fairy Shi agreed to take sixty percent of the spoils, earning herself a tidy profit. She looked at Lan Chang''an with a touch of appreciation.


    Normally, Lan Chang''an was fair in his dealings, never taking more or less than his due. But she hadn¡¯t expected him to be so generous when it really mattered.


    ...


    By the time Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi returned to Wuqi Mountain, dawn was just breaking.


    Lan Chang''an had not brought the captured Senior Brother Zhuo with him.


    Firstly, carrying a living person was inconvenient, especially since they couldn''t be stored in a storage pouch as a corpse could. Secondly, he wanted to avoid any unexpected situations that might give him away.


    A notorious rogue cultivator like the Night Fisherman might attract the attention of Fake-Dan cultivators from a sect.


    Lan Chang''an had the Earth Burrowing Rat watch over Senior Brother Zhuo, hiding him underground near Wuqi Mountain. With his cultivation crippled and severe injuries, Zhuo posed no threat.


    "Uncle Lan."


    At Little Turtle Peak, Mu Bingyun stood on the mountaintop, her face filled with worry. When she saw the familiar white-robed figure returning, her smile bloomed like snow melting in winter.


    "Fairy Shi, Fellow Daoist Lan." Ye Fei arrived from Little Pill Peak.


    The three peak masters, along with Mu Bingyun, gathered in the cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak.


    After hearing the situation, Ye Fei had no objections to Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi''s private actions. After all, hunting down rogue cultivators was inherently risky, and with his strength being the weakest, it made the most sense for him to remain stationed at Wuqi Mountain.


    "The two of you made the right decision. After Miss Bingyun returned, I inspected Wuqi Mountain and identified a rogue cultivator''s spy."


    "A spy?" Lan Chang''an asked, knowing that if all three peak masters had left together, their movements might have alerted the Night Fisherman.


    "The spy was ate-stage Qi-Refining cultivator, skilled in disguise, who had reced one of the servant cultivators affiliated with Little Pill Peak..." Ye Fei exined the details.


    Since it was just a Qi-Refining cultivator, Lan Chang''an didn''t pay much attention. Wuqi Mountain, being a small trading hub, couldn¡¯t bepletely isted from the outside world, and the three peak masters still needed someborers.


    The affiliated cultivators of the three main peaks couldn¡¯t entirely prevent spies. Besides the affiliated cultivators, those guests who came to the mountain could also take on this role.


    Lan Chang''an only needed to ensure that there were no issues on his own Little Turtle Peak.


    "There is a dereliction of duty on the part of Wuqi Mountain''s steward, Lan Lin, and considering that she is already old and has served the mountain for most of her life, it might be best to dismiss her," Fairy Shi suggested.


    Lan Chang''an and Ye Fei had no objections. The steward was a trusted servant chosen by the previous owner of Little Pill Peak, Lin Ye. In recent years, she had aged considerably and her duties had mostly been taken over by her descendants.


    ...


    Half an hourter, the meeting concluded.


    In the cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an and Mu Bingyun sat facing each other.


    "Aboutst night, Uncle Lan did not ask for your permission," Lan Chang''an said, expressing his apology.


    By now, Mu Bingyun must have realized the truth¡ªthat she had been used as bait. Lan Chang''an decided to be upfront about it to avoid any lingering resentment.


    "Last night, when Uncle Lan and Fairy Shi arrived in time, I had already guessed it," Mu Bingyun said, her lips slightly pursed, her expression serene, though tinged with a hint of grievance.


    "Uncle Lan did it for my own good, to eliminate any future threats. If you hadn''t acted, I wouldn¡¯t have survived." Mu Bingyun understood the bigger picture, though she couldn¡¯t help but feel somewhat ufortable.


    "I''m d you understand," Lan Chang''an replied with a smile.


    In truth, neither of them owed the other anything. Lan Chang''an had saved Mu Bingyun, but he had also used her as bait, resolving a significant threat and gained a substantial reward for himself.


    "So, Uncle Lan didn¡¯t keep me overnight because he wanted to lure out the Night Fisherman," Mu Bingyun said, her eyes bright as she seriously studied Lan Chang''an, clearly concerned about this point.


    "Right," Lan Chang''an admitted. That was indeed the main reason. Last night, he had found an excuse not to let Mu Bingyun stay overnight in his cave.


    "So, Uncle Lan doesn¡¯t mind if I stay overnight at your ce," Mu Bingyun said with a soft smile, her dimples appearing as she spoke.


    Lan Chang''an hesitated for a moment, then quickly added, "Only asionally. Each peak on Wuqi Mountain is meant for a single Foundation Establishment cultivator."


    Mu Bingyun nodded. "I understand the rules of Wuqi Mountain, but if a Foundation Establishment visitor is not cultivating and doesn¡¯t ce any additional burden on the spiritual vein, it shouldn''t be an issue."


    Lan Chang''an was at a loss for words, surprised that Mu Bingyun had found such a loophole.


    That day, Mu Bingyun seemed to return to her former role as a maid, calmly and joyfully attending to the affairs of Little Turtle Peak, keeping busy throughout the day.


    That night, she stayed overnight in the cave on Little Turtle Peak, sleeping in the room she had once upied years ago.


    ...


    The next morning, Mu Bingyun rose early.


    After much deliberation, she finally mustered the courage to take out a letter she had personally written and ced it under her pillow.


    If Lan Chang''an entered her room, he might find the letter. If he didn¡¯t, he might never see it.


    Leaving the letter behind made her heart race, her cheeks flushing slightly.


    At dawn, as the sun began to rise, Mu Bingyun took her leave.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t try to stop her, nor did he go into her room.

 Chapter 174: Bad News from the Frontlines

    Chapter 174: Bad News from the Frontlines


    After Mu Bingyun left, Lan Chang''an began to consider how to handle the issue of Senior Brother Zhuo.


    He had already analyzed the situation. Senior Brother Zhuo had been removed from the me Departing Pce¡¯s roster, so there likely wasn¡¯t a soulmp connected to him within the sect.


    However, this person, as the ck glove of the me Departing Pce cultivators, might have connections with the higher-ups in the sect, and the possibility of there being other means of detecting his death could not be ruled out.


    At the very least, Senior Brother Zhuo couldn¡¯t die at this particr time. It would be better for him to reappear in the future, in a different context, before meeting his end. This way, any connection between his death and Wuqi Mountain or Lan Chang''an could be severed.


    As for finding someone else to take the me, that could be left to chance¡ªthere was no need to force it, as that might make things worse.


    "Six months from now," Lan Chang''an decided. He set a deadline for Zhuo''s death¡ªat least six monthster, or maybe even a year.


    The spoils from Senior Brother Zhuo were valuable, but few were of immediate use to Lan Chang''an.


    The golden magical treasure prototype, for example, was clearly stolen goods and couldn¡¯t be used openly. Lan Chang''an already possessed a magical treasure prototype he had nurtured and refined for many years, which suited him better and consumed less of his resources.Generally, only those with the deep mana reserves of ate Foundation Establishment cultivator or an exceptional spiritual sense could effectively wield a magical treasure prototype.


    The two quasi-third-rank talismans¡ªone offensive and one for escape¡ªwere valuable additions to Lan Chang''an¡¯s collection of talisman treasures. However, these types of quasi-third-rank talismans were not suitable for nurturing due to the different methods and materials used in their creation.


    Quasi-third-rank talismans, which correspond to Fake-Dan, are typically created in two ways.


    One is throughcking craftsmanship, where third-rank materials are used to forcefully create a downgraded quasi-third-rank talisman.


    The other is through proper craftsmanship using the hide or fur of a pseudo-third-rank demonic beast.


    The promotion of a demonic beast to the third rank was simr to a human''s formation of the core, where the inner core had to be condensed within the body.


    If the inner core is of inferior quality, the beast is considered a pseudo-third-rank demonic beast, much like a human Fake-Dan human cultivator.


    "As for the materials for the Crystal Condensation Pill, if I ever get the chance to refine the pill, I might consider giving any extra pills to the Earth Burrowing Rat," Lan Chang''an mused.


    Demonic beasts advance to the third rank by forming an inner core, much like human cultivators forming a core. Therefore, the Crystal Condensation Pill could also be useful for the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Although the Crystal Condensation Pill is specifically tailored for human cultivators, it would be less effective for demonic beasts. The closer a demonic beast¡¯s physiology is to that of humans, the more effective the pill.


    Given that many human medicines are tested on mice, the Earth Burrowing Rat would likely benefit significantly from the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    In the past, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t considered his own prospects of forming a core, and the Earth Burrowing Rat was only expected to reach the pseudo-third rank.


    However, if there were enough Crystal Condensation Pills in the future, the Earth Burrowing Rat could secure a pseudo-core at the very least, with a slight chance of bing a true third-rank great demon.


    ...


    Currently, Senior Brother Zhuo was bound in an underground chamber near the northern edge of Wuqi Mountain.


    The underground rock provided strong istion from spiritual sense detection. Without knowledge of the exact location, even a Core Formation Immortal flying nearby would be unable to detect him.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was in charge of guarding Zhuo, keeping him nourished with Fasting Pills. With the restrictions ced on him, Zhuo couldn¡¯t evenmit suicide.


    Lan Chang''an considered interrogating Zhuo, but given that the "Night Fisherman" had recently been sighted, and me Departing Pce cultivators might visit soon, he decided to postpone the interrogation.


    Three dayster, Song Wenshu arrived at Wuqi Mountain with two other me Departing Pce cultivators to gather information and track the "Night Fisherman."


    The three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain cooperated fully, providing any clues they had.


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi truthfully recounted the events of that night, though Lan Chang''an omitted the part where he captured and killed Senior Brother Zhuo.


    After the formalities were over, Song Wenshu stayed as a guest at Little Turtle Peak, apanied by the three peak masters.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, the ''Night Fisherman'' has struck again near Wuqi Mountain, nearly harming your junior. This is my fault!" In private conversation, Song Wenshu expressed his apology, lowering his tone slightly.


    Lan Chang''an had previously provided him with spirit stones to improve the security around Wuqi Mountain, so they had a bit of a rapport.


    Song Wenshu¡¯s humble demeanor earned him some goodwill from Fairy Shi and Ye Fei. me Departing Pce cultivators usually held themselves above loose cultivators, rarely showing them such courtesy.


    "Fellow Daoist Song, you¡¯re being too hard on yourself. These are unusual times, and your sect¡¯s manpower is limited," Lan Chang''an replied politely.


    Had he not known the truth, he might have been swayed by Song Wenshu¡¯s words for a moment.


    "Rest assured, three peak masters, I will further strengthen the patrols around Wuqi Mountain..." Song Wenshu assured them.


    "By the way, me Departing Pce ns to increase the bounty on the ''Night Fisherman.'' Are any of you interested in participating?" he added casually after some idle chat.


    Only Lan Chang''an understood that Song Wenshu hade to test the waters with these words.


    "Sigh, I don¡¯t have the confidence to capture such a notorious bandit. That night, when we lured out the rogue cultivators, we had no idea who he was. Now, I¡¯ll be lucky if he doesn¡¯t seek revenge," Lan Chang''an replied with a wry smile.


    Fairy Shi added regretfully, "We missed our chance that night when he escaped severely injured. Now that he¡¯s on guard, capturing him will be even more difficult..."


    Song Wenshu kept his expression neutral, noting that the three peak masters had no intention of pursuing the matter further.


    After sitting at Little Turtle Peak for another quarter-hour, Song Wenshu rose to take his leave.


    The three peak masters escorted him out of the cave.


    Ye Fei remarked, "This Fellow Daoist Song is truly a refined and amiable man, not at all haughty despite his status. He¡¯s someone worth befriending."


    Lan Chang''an nodded with a smile but didn¡¯t continue the conversation.


    Fairy Shi, who had a deeper rtionship with him, had a vague feeling that something was different. Although Lan Chang''an remained as courteous as ever, he seemed less interested in fostering a friendship with Song Wenshu than before.


    ...


    Half a month after the me Departing Pce cultivators left, Lan Chang''an finally visited the underground chamber north of Wuqi Mountain to interrogate Senior Brother Zhuo.


    In the dark underground cave, Senior Brother Zhuo looked pale, with sunken eyes and a vacant stare. When he saw Lan Chang''an, his pupils contracted, but he didn¡¯t show any surprise.


    Over the past few days, while being guarded by the Earth Burrowing Rat, Zhuo had spected about this possibility.


    Lan Chang''an released some of the restrictions on him, allowing him to speak.


    "Brother Zhuo, if you answer my questions honestly, I¡¯ll give you a quick death," Lan Chang''an said bluntly.


    "Lan Chang''an, do you know who I am? If you have any guts, kill me! When you do, the entire Wuqi Mountain will be buried with me!" Zhuo sneered, his expression cold and menacing.


    "Quite the bold statement," Lan Chang''an remarked, slightly surprised. Did this man really have such powerful backing?


    "Ha! If you had that kind of power, why would you be hiding and drifting around as a rogue cultivator?"


    "Hmph! I am the descendant of a me Departing Pce elder. If you don¡¯t believe me, ask Song Wenshu," Zhuo retorted mockingly.


    "The descendant of a me Departing Pce elder? I haven¡¯t heard of any elder with the surname Zhuo," Lan Chang''an replied skeptically.


    me Departing Pce elders, who were at least Core Formation Immortals, mostly served as either ordinary or outer sect elders. The core elders were few and far between, and Lan Chang''an, after a century of cultivation in the Liang Kingdom, was familiar with most of these figures.


    Zhuo fell silent, either due to some unspeakable secret or because he was deliberately trying to create an air of mystery. He didn¡¯t borate on his background.


    Lan Chang''an decided not to use force for now. Zhuo''s injuries were severe, and with his cultivation crippled, he was essentially a mortal. His body couldn¡¯t withstand torture.


    But Lan Chang''an had other ways to extract information from him other than torture.


    Several dayster, Lan Chang''an stopped giving Zhuo Fasting Pills, allowing hunger and weakness to cloud his mind.


    In this state, Lan Chang''an used a "Soul Enchantment Spell" on Zhuo, which quickly took effect.


    Whoosh!


    Within moments, Zhuo awoke from the spell. Despite his weakened state, his willpower, honed through years as a peakte Foundation Establishment cultivator, allowed him to break free quickly.


    "Who... who are you? A mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator with such a powerful spiritual sense..." Zhuo was drenched in cold sweat, staring at Lan Chang''an in disbelief.


    In me Departing Pce, only those for Golden Dan seeds could have such strong spiritual senses at thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    Lan Chang''an simply smiled without answering. He fed Zhuo another Fasting Pill, reapplying the restrictions to ensure nothing was missed.


    In that brief moment, using the Soul Enchantment Spell, Lan Chang''an extracted several crucial pieces of information from Zhuo.


    ...


    Back at Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an spent a long time in deep thought.


    Zhuo''s real name was Zhuo Yangping, and he was indeed the great-grandson of a powerful me Departing Pce elder.


    Many years ago, Zhuo hadmitted a serious crime within the sect. He had used threats and coercion to defile several female disciples, including a Fake-Dan inner disciple. When the scandal broke, Zhuo fled to escape punishment.


    The elder, known for his strict adherence to justice, had dered that he would uphold thew even if it meant executing his own kin. Eventually, me Departing Pce¡¯sw enforcement team imed to have "killed" Zhuo, bringing the matter to a close.


    Since then, Zhuo had been erased from me Departing Pce''s records, living under assumed identities and operating in the gray areas, colluding with me Departing Pce cultivators as a ck glove.


    ording to Zhuo, the elder never intended to protect him. Instead, it was a deputy hall master of the Law Enforcement Hall who, possibly to curry favor with the elder or for some other purpose, took it upon himself to secretly bail out Zhuo.


    This deputy hall master happened to be a rtive of Song Wenshu.


    Over the years, Zhuo had funneled a significant portion of his plundered wealth and captured female cultivators as tributes to this deputy hall master.


    "A Core Formation elder¡¯s great-grandson... That¡¯s a connection, but not an insurmountable one..." After learning the truth, Lan Chang''an felt both apprehensive and reassured.


    Zhuo''s background was indeed significant but far from invincible. His status is far inferior to that of the personal disciples of the me Departing Pce Master, the Law Enforcement Elders, and the like.


    The Nascent Soul True Monarch of the me Departing Pce, on the other hand, was a Supreme Elder who basically did not ask about the sect''s mundane matters.


    If Zhuo had been directly rted to a Nascent Soul True Monarch or a personal disciple with connections beyond Lan Chang''an''s previous life''s cultivation experience, he wouldn¡¯t even think about it and just run away, possibly even abandon the Liang Kingdom altogether.


    ...


    Two months passed in the blink of an eye.


    There was no response from me Departing Pce regarding Zhuo, though Song Wenshu did indeed increase patrols around Wuqi Mountain, improving the security in the area.


    One day, Lan Chang''an received a letter from Jin Yun Valley.


    Zhang Tieshan and Lin Lu were engaged in battle in a neighboring country, and the letter was from Zhao Siyao.


    In her letter, Zhao Siyao hinted that the sect was preparing to draft a second batch of cultivators for the war effort in Feng Kingdom.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that Zhao Siyao was afraid that she would be on the list of cultivators to be drafted for the second batch.


    At the same time, the letter also brought bad news¡ªpossibly even catastrophic news¡ªfrom the frontlines of the Feng Kingdom.

 Chapter 175: The Situation in Feng Kingdom

    Chapter 175: The Situation in Feng Kingdom


    A team of cultivators from Jin Yun Valley was ambushed by enemy cultivators while exploring within the borders of Feng Kingdom.


    The ambushers outnumbered the Jin Yun Valley team three to one, and the leader of the ambush was ate-stage Foundation Establishment great cultivator.


    At that time, nearly the entire team of several dozen cultivators was surrounded and annihted, and the three Foundation Establishment cultivators who led the team, none of them returned.


    Lin Lu, unfortunately, was in that team of cultivators.


    In her letter, Zhao Siyao described the situation: Lin Lu did not die immediately. He barely managed to break through the encirclement using a high-quality escape talisman, but he was relentlessly pursued by thete-stage Foundation Establishment great cultivator.


    After that battle, Lin Lu never returned and disappeared from the Feng Kingdom battlefield.


    Zhang Tieshan searched and inquired many times afterward, but there was no trace of him.


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly, knowing that in such situations, the chances of survival were slim.A cultivator of average strength in the mid-stage Foundation Establishment, trapped deep within enemy territory during a cultivation war and being hunted down, would likely never return if they hadn¡¯t made it back soon after the encounter.


    On a personal level, Lan Chang''an felt regret, and even a touch of sorrow.


    After all, Lin Lu had been a respectful junior for many years.


    But from a neutral perspective, or from the viewpoint of the Feng Kingdom cultivators, this event wasn¡¯t deserving of sympathy.


    After all, Lin Lu and the sect from the Liang Kingdom to which he belonged were the invaders.


    ¡°I wonder what the current situation on the Feng Kingdom battlefield is like?¡± Lan Chang''an pondered.


    He had always kept a close eye on the broader situation in the cultivation world.


    Even if Zhao Siyao knew specific details about the battlefield, it wouldn¡¯t be appropriate for her to reveal them in a letter.


    At the end of the letter, Zhao Siyao mentioned that she couldn¡¯t leave her sect easily and hoped that Lan Chang''an could visit Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an inferred from this that Zhao Siyao was likely on the list for the second wave of sect expeditions and had entered the ¡°locked¡± state of war preparation, making it difficult for her to leave Jin Yun Valley freely.


    As a female cultivator friend whom he had known for over a hundred years, Lan Chang''an inevitably felt some concern for this ally.


    In a cultivation war, one¡¯s survival depended not only on strength but also on the broader situation on the battlefield and a good measure of luck.


    ...


    The day after receiving the letter, Lan Chang''an discreetly left Wuqi Mountain and flew towards the western part of the Liang Kingdom.


    Seven or eight dayster, Lan Chang''an, riding a streak of green light, arrived at the gates of Jin Yun Valley.


    Compared to before, the atmosphere in Jin Yun Valley was heavier, and most of the sect cultivatorsing and going seemed to carry a sense of urgency.


    After being informed of his arrival, Zhao Siyao came out from the mountain gate to greet him.


    The mountain wind stirred her white dress, entuating her graceful and elegant figure.


    Zhao Siyao looked to be around twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old. She wore a phoenix hairpin, and her features were as delicate as a painting, exuding a refined and ethereal beauty.


    She appeared even more elegant andposed than she had in past years, or even when she had first entered the Foundation Establishment stage.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯vee.¡±


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao.¡±


    The two exchanged a nce and a smile, nodding without engaging in excessive small talk or formalities.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao flew side by side, entering thetter¡¯s cave dwelling.


    In the center of the cave was a lotus pond, its fragrance permeating the air, with pavilions and terraces connected around it.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, this time I have to thank you foring over.¡±


    Zhao Siyao dismissed her servants with grace and brewed a pot of spiritual tea for Lan Chang''an using the mountain spring water that flowed through her cave.


    After chatting idly for a while, the conversation naturally turned to the regrettable news of Lin Lu¡¯s entrapment in the Feng Kingdom battlefield.


    From the information avable, Lin Lu¡¯s chances of survival were slim.


    Even if by some miracle he survived, he was likely captured, and his fate would not be favorable.


    ...


    Afterward, Lan Chang''an got straight to the point, asking about the current situation in the Feng Kingdom battlefield.


    Zhao Siyao pondered for a moment and then said, ¡°Two years ago, the sects of Liang Kingdom rallied various forces. The first wave of cultivator armies invaded Feng Kingdom from the rear, moving from south to north. In the early stages of the war, Feng Kingdom was fighting on two fronts and struggled to respond. The cultivation forces in the rear were repeatedly defeated¡­¡±


    The early part of her ount wasmon knowledge among those who followed the battlefield.


    Liang Kingdom¡¯s initial campaign was rtively sessful, capturing immortal cities and spiritual fields, and seizing many resources.


    A series of victories boosted the morale of the people.


    ¡°However, the Feng Kingdom is vast, with many cultivation forces, and its foundations far exceed those of the Liang Kingdom. As the first wave of cultivator armies prated deeper into the Feng Kingdom, they encountered significant resistance.


    ¡°If the enemy¡¯s cultivation forces couldn¡¯t win in a direct confrontation, they adopted a scorched-earth strategy. Liang Kingdom¡¯s armies often found themselves attacked from the rear, ambushed, or had their supply points targeted by cultivators¡­¡±


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s voice was clear and pleasant, but her tone grew more serious.


    ¡°When a small country invades arge country, there is also a disparity in the foundations of their cultivation civilizations.¡±


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself, not surprised by the current situation.


    Feng Kingdom¡¯s territory was muchrger than both Yan and Liangbined.


    Its strategic depth was vast.


    Its heritage and the advantage of fighting on home soil were all in Feng Kingdom¡¯s favor.


    In addition to the existing three Nascent Soul-level forces, the Feng Kingdom had many other powerful sects, and the strength of its cultivation families far exceeded that of the Liang Kingdom.


    ¡°Has the Nascent Soul True Monarch from me Departing Pce taken action?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    The few remaining Nascent Soul cultivators in Feng Kingdom were being restrained by Chu Tianfeng from the frontlines and the Nascent Soul True Monarchs of Chen Kingdom, making them unlikely to intervene directly in the war.


    ¡°It¡¯s said that the True Monarch took action once, capturing an important immortal city. However, due to certain concerns, they have not intervened in the war directly since.¡± Zhao Siyao replied.


    ¡°Certain concerns?¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s face showed a trace of doubt.


    The only thing that could cause a Nascent Soul True Monarch to have concerns would be a threat from an equivalent power.


    Feng Kingdom could not afford to deploy a Nascent Soul cultivator for too long on the frontlines to counter the invasion from Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects. Otherwise, an early stage Nascent Soul who was left alone for a long period of time might be sneak attacked by Chu Tianfeng, and even if they were only seriously injured, it would have a great impact on the overall situation.


    ¡°There are rumors that this matter is rted to the sword cultivator from Feng Kingdom¡¯s ¡®Blood Sword Valley¡¯ who had his physical body destroyed and fled with his Nascent Soul.¡±


    Zhao Siyao didn''t look too sure, as this was based on unverified rumors.


    Blood Sword Valley, located in a slightly remote area of Feng Kingdom, had once been attacked by Chu Tianfeng of Yan Kingdom in coboration with sects from Chen Kingdom.


    ¡°The sword cultivator from Blood Sword Valley was once the number one Nascent Soul in Feng Kingdom, the most powerful. When Chu Tianfeng, who was in the mid-Nascent Soul stage, attacked, this person even took the initiative to confront him, causing Chu Tianfeng to suffer some injuries.¡±


    ¡°That sword cultivator¡¯s Nascent Soul fled and is rumored to be hiding behind the scenes,manding the remnants of Blood Sword Valley. Blood Sword Valley has received support from the other two Nascent Soul sects, and they are lurking and defending in the southern part of Feng Kingdom.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an gained a clearer understanding of the frontline situation.


    The Blood Sword Valley leader, whose Nascent Soul had escaped, was clearly not an ordinary early-stage Nascent Soul cultivator.


    If his sect had ate-Core Formation cultivator who cultivated a simr technique, the Nascent Soul could potentially take over that body. There would be no need to sh head-on with the Nascent Soul True Monarch from me Departing Pce; instead, they couldunch surprise attacks, which would be devastating for anyone below the Nascent Soul Realm.


    With this Nascent Soul True Monarch orchestrating things behind the scenes, Feng Kingdom¡¯s response to Liang Kingdom¡¯s invasion strategy was significantly bolstered.


    There was even a possibility that the Blood Sword Valley sword cultivator had reached some sort of tacit understanding with the Nascent Soul True Monarch of me Departing Pce, limiting how and when they would act against each other.


    ¡°Overall, the sects from the Liang Kingdom are still on the offensive, but the situation is no longer as favorable.¡±


    ...


    After discussing the neighboring country¡¯s battlefield, Zhao Siyao mentioned her own situation.


    She was part of the second batch of sect cultivators dispatched, holding a higher rank due to herte-stage Foundation Establishment status, with responsibilities greater than those of Lin Lu.


    In invading a neighboring country, both opportunities and risks coexisted.


    From the initial phase of the expedition, opportunities clearly outweighed dangers. At the very least, the Liang Kingdom suffered fewer casualties than the Feng Kingdom.


    Some of the invading Liang Kingdom cultivators had acquired resources and wealth that would have taken them several lifetimes to umte.


    This included the inheritance techniques and treasured artifacts of some factions, as well as the personal fortunes and secrets of individual cultivators.


    During the war, the number of cultivators breaking through bottlenecks increased by several foldspared to normal times.


    The prerequisite for all of this was to survive. Like Zhang Tieshan, Zhao Siyao also had a strong demand for high-quality war supplies.


    ¡°To purchase Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s high-quality talismans and puppets, Siyao has saved up spirit stones for several years, including reserves meant for Core Formation.¡± Zhao Siyao¡¯s clear, bright eyes held a hint of expectation.


    Over the past century, every time she obtained talismans or puppets from Lan Chang''an at key junctures, they exceeded her expectations and proved quite useful.


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s see how well-prepared Fellow Daoist Zhao is.¡± Lan Chang''an smiled slightly. He trusted Zhao Siyao a little more and could disy some strategic materials that exceeded the standard.


    During the ensuing transaction, Zhao Siyaomented that she didn¡¯t have enough spirit stones.


    Lan Chang''an offered only high-quality talismans, including top-grade second-rank ones and even quasi-third-grade talismans.


    Some of these talismans had unique abilities and were extremely rare on the market.


    In terms of puppets, he presented a second-rank superior puppet, capable of restraining ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator at a critical moment.


    Despite having saved spirit stones for many years, Zhao Siyao still had less than Zhang Tieshan.


    After much difficult deliberation, she bought some top-grade second-rank talismans.


    She could only afford one quasi-third-grade talisman.


    As for thete second-rank puppet, it was beyond her budget.


    ¡°This turtle puppet is a second-rank superior quality but considered a defective product, only its defensive capabilities are fully at thete second-rank level. If Fellow Daoist Zhao needs it, I can sell it at a rtively low price.¡± Lan Chang''an offered.


    When he had been trying to be a second-rank superior puppet master, he had created a failed turtle puppet with a strong defense.


    Lan Chang''an offered a price just slightly higher than that of an ordinary second-rank middle-grade puppet.


    Zhao Siyao was very tempted. After much hesitation, she scraped together enough resources, using some pills and materials to make up the difference, and bought the turtle puppet.


    She sighed, saying, ¡°Perhaps I¡¯m destined to have a connection with turtles.¡±


    ¡°Back in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, that turtle puppet performed excellently in a critical moment, and after being repaired by fellow Daoist Lan, I gave it to Tan''er to use some years ago.¡±


    Lan Chang''an joked, ¡°My turtle puppet here is cheap and durable, it just doesn''t match Fairy Zhao''s temperament.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with turtles, it''s good to live a long life and survive.¡± Zhao Siyao smiled, her clear and lively eyes looking at Lan Chang''an with a soft, seemingly a little envious gaze.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart skipped a beat, almost thinking she had seen through some of his secrets.


    ¡°In addition to purchasing war supplies, there is one more thing Siyao would like to ask for.¡±


    Zhao Siyao suddenly stood up, her expression solemn, and made a full bow.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, there¡¯s no need for this. Please speak freely.¡±


    Lan Chang''an also stood, gently lifting Fairy Zhao¡¯s delicate hand with a light touch.


    ¡°At our age, we no longer have any close rtives in this world. After I leave this time, I cannot guarantee that I will return from this expedition. My only concern is my personal disciple, Tan¡¯er.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan acts steadily and has insights into the affairs of the cultivation world. If I do not return, I hope you can take care of Zhao Tan¡¯er and offer her some guidance.¡± Zhao Siyao said, seemingly making preparations for her own death.


    ¡°I will do as you ask. I¡¯m sure that heaven will favor the virtuous, and it won¡¯te to that.¡± Lan Chang''an nodded.


    Judging from the current situation, the death rate among sect members in the expedition wasn¡¯t particrly high; it was just that the frontlines were short on personnel.


    But war is merciless and unpredictable. Even Core Formation cultivators couldn¡¯t guarantee their return.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s early instructions were a rational precaution.


    ...


    After discussing the important matters, the two chatted for another half-day, until evening.


    With a century of cultivation experience, there was much to reminisce about.


    Especially since this might be thest time they would speak, both cherished the moment even more.


    During their conversation, their gazes asionally met, warm and in harmony, sometimes sharing a smile without words.


    As the sky darkened.


    Zhao Siyao showed no intention of bidding farewell, but Lan Chang''an sensibly stood to take his leave.


    Zhao Siyao let out a soft ¡°hmmm¡± to acknowledge his departure, watching the youthful and ageless man in white without offering the usual pleasantries to make him stay.


    She escorted Lan Chang''an to the entrance of her cave.


    In the dim evening light.


    Lan Chang''an turned back and saw her standing there in her elegant, cool, and graceful white dress, watching him quietly, silently seeing him off.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, I wish you smooth sailing in Feng Kingdom and sess in acquiring the Core Formation resources. When you return, we¡¯ll drink and celebrate together.¡±


    Lan Chang''an waved goodbye and soared into the night sky.


    ...


    After leaving Jin Yun Valley.


    As Lan Chang''an flew through the air, he reflected on their earlier conversation, a thoughtful expression on his face.


    In terms of emotions, Zhao Siyao was quite simr to him and even more reserved.


    ¡°That treasure talisman, I hope you never have to use it on the battlefield.¡± Lan Chang''an murmured to himself.


    Unbeknownst to her, he had secretly left a treasure talisman in the spirit stonepartment of the turtle puppet he sold to Zhao Siyao.


    Zhao Siyao was the only cultivator in this world to receive such a gift from him.

 Chapter 176: Perhaps Destined

    Chapter 176: Perhaps Destined


    One monthter.


    Lan Chang''an, who had returned to Little Turtle Peak, learned from the outside world about the second wave of sect cultivators being sent on an expedition by the Liang Kingdom.


    This time, the number of recruited cultivators was even greater than the first wave.


    Among the additional recruits, the majority were lower to mid-level cultivators.


    "The Mu Family of Feiyue Lake has also answered the sect''s call?"


    Lan Chang''an looked at a letter sent by Mu Bingyun.


    Since it was an expedition to another country and the situation wasn¡¯t urgent, the sects of the Liang Kingdom didn¡¯t make it mandatory for small to medium-sized cultivation families to participate.


    However, the rewards andpensations offered were enticing enough to tempt many family cultivators.The sect opened up many rare resources, including some strategic materials, to the family cultivators who answered the call.


    As long as they performed well in battle, and their merit was high enough, breakthrough pills, Foundation Establishment Pills, advanced techniques, skill inheritances, and even magical treasures...all of these could be redeemed.


    Among these, the most valuable item avable for exchange was the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    If a cultivator who answered the call died on the battlefield, their family would receive a generouspensation package, along with a war merit reward.


    With such great rewards, it was no surprise that some family cultivators, especially those who had not achieved much or wanted to pave the way for their descendants, were moved.


    ording to Mu Bingyun, a few Qi-Refining cultivators from the Mu Family had responded to the call and joined the sect¡¯s expedition from the Liang Kingdom.


    ¡°Only in an invasion war, where the cake is being made bigger, do such opportunities arise.¡±


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but recall his past life in the Great Kun, where the cultivation country he belonged to was once invaded by demonic sects.


    At that time, all the cultivation families, ording to their size, were forcibly conscripted by the sects. A required number of cultivators at certain cultivation levels were sent to participate in the resistance against the invasion of the demonic sects.


    Mu Bingyun expressed her gratitude at the end of the letter.


    The n-protecting formation at Feiyue Lake had been sessfully set up with the help of Shi Manrong, greatly enhancing the family¡¯s defense capabilities.


    ...


    ¡°As long as the mes of war don¡¯t reach Liang Kingdom, everything is fine.¡±


    Lan Chang''an set aside the letter, feeling indifferent.


    However, the winds of war in the cultivation world are unpredictable, and the games between cultivation nations often exceed the control of even Core Formation cultivators.


    Since the Liang Kingdom had chosen to get involved in the war, it had actively stepped into the storm. There was no guarantee that it wouldn¡¯t face bacsh in the future, with the mes of war spreading within its borders.


    Lan Chang''an had prepared for the worst.


    If extreme circumstances arose, and the war affected his personal cultivation, he would either retreat to the mountains or leave the Liang Kingdom cultivation world altogether.


    Retreating to the mountains could only avoid small-scale skirmishes or short-term wars, as cultivation required spiritual vein cultivation grounds.


    As for leaving the Liang Kingdom to go to another cultivation nation, it still posed significant risks for a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The journey would be long and fraught with dangers, including natural dangerous zones.


    The chaotic bordends could expose one to more powerful bandits and wanted criminals.


    Remnants of demonic sects and some of the most vicious international fugitives were known to asionally appear at the borders of cultivation nations.


    Normally, one would have to be a Fake-Dan Immortal to be able to travel to neighboring countries in a rtively safe and stable manner.


    Lan Chang''an, however, currently had the cards to threaten and kill a Fake-Dan Immortal, but the minimum standard he had set for himself was at least bing a great cultivator of his realm,te stage of Foundation Establishment, before he could possibly consider the option of leaving Liang.


    ...


    Three monthster.


    On a dark, windy night.


    Lan Chang''an quietly slipped out of Wuqi Mountain.


    After traveling several hundred li on the ground, he transformed into an ordinary-looking young man in the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat cast a spell, carrying arge bup sack as it boarded a flying boat with a canopy.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat dragged the bup sack into the boat¡¯s cabin.


    Lan Chang''an set up restrictions on the flying boat andid down formations to iste it from external spiritual senses.


    It had been half a year since the battle with the "Night Fisherman."


    Senior Brother Zhuo had been stripped of his cultivation and imprisoned underground, unable to seek death, with his life sustained by Fasting Pills. Now, Lan Chang''an no longer intended to keep him alive and nned to give him a quick death.


    The flying boat maintained a normal speed, heading northwest.


    On the way, they passed near Huanglong Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an did not linger in the city, and tried to avoid areas with a high concentration of cultivators.


    More than half a monthter.


    The ordinary Foundation Establishment young man that Lan Chang''an had transformed into approached Red Water Market.


    This was arge floating market, muchrger than Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market and slightly bigger than Five Peaks Mountain Market.


    This market was controlled by the Mo Family, one of the seven great families.


    The Mo Family had lost a newly ascended Core Formation cultivator during the battle at Huanglong Mountain years ago. Now, the Mo Family still had a Fake-Dan Immortal, maintaining their foundation.


    In recent years, the Mo Family had kept a low profile, steadily guarding their territory and attempting to cultivate new Core Formation Immortals, even if they were only Fake-Dans.


    The security around Red Water Market was average at best, slightly better than the chaos in Bamboo Leaf Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an came to this ce because of the information he had extracted from Senior Brother Zhuo, who had nned toe to Red Water Market to recover andy low for a few years.


    Red Water Market had a high-grade second-rank spiritual vein and offered corresponding cave dwellings for rent.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    Lan Chang''an changed his appearance for the second time, bing a short-bearded young man, with his cultivation level disyed as early Foundation Establishment.


    Under this identity, he took a valuable flying boat and wandered around the vicinity of Red Water Market.


    Before long, Lan Chang''an encountered a rogue cultivator who briefly eyed him.


    "No! Ate-stage Foundation Establishment¡ª"


    That mid-stage Foundation Establishment rogue cultivator didn¡¯t realize what was happening before Lan Chang''an swiftly approached and struck with thunderous force, killing him with a powerful supreme-grade magical weapon.


    That supreme-grade magical weapon was the same ck rod once used by Senior Brother Zhuo, a peak weapon among those of the same rank.


    When he killed the man, Lan Chang''an disguised himself as ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The weapon and cultivation level matched Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s identity. As for the appearance and image, it was normal for there to be a difference.


    In the meantime, only individual cultivators in the vicinity saw it, and it did not appear deliberate and eye-catching.


    Before evening fell that day.


    Lan Chang''an, under this identity, concealed his cultivation at the early Foundation Establishment stage and entered Red Water Market, settling down in an inn.


    As for the Earth Burrowing Rat, it hid Senior Brother Zhuo in an underground cave several hundred li outside the market.


    ...


    Over the next half month.


    The short-bearded young man Lan Chang''an had transformed into discreetly purchased some resources at Red Water Market.


    Through an introduction from a shopkeeper, Lan Chang''an attended a private trading meeting for Foundation Establishment cultivators a few dayster.


    This Foundation Establishment trading meeting was held in arge residence within the market, hosted by ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator with close ties to the Mo Family.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s intention was to subtly make his presence known in the Foundation Establishment circle, leaving behind traces of his existence.


    ¡°Hm?¡±


    Lan Chang''an sensed a faint spiritual sense that was so subtle that even an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator would have difficulty detecting it.


    That spiritual sense was very restrained, not probing any cultivator too deeply, to avoid being discovered by thete-stage Foundation Establishment host.


    Lan Chang''an felt that this hidden spiritual sense was somewhat familiar.


    "Cang Yue Flower, a rare second-rank spiritual flower with the effects of nourishing and beautifying the skin, is an important ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pill¡­"


    During the trading session, a man in a bronze mask at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment was selling materials that caught Lan Chang''an¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Cang Yue Flower? That¡¯s the only auxiliary ingredient I¡¯m missing for the Youth Retaining Pill.¡±


    After a brief consideration, Lan Chang''an decided to buy it.


    The Cang Yue Flower had the effect of nourishing and beautifying the skin.


    Senior Brother Zhuo was not known for restraint when it came to women, often having many mistresses. Buying this flower would suit the identity Lan Chang''an had assumed even better.


    Since there was nopetition, Lan Chang''an easily purchased the Cang Yue Flower at market price.


    With this, after thirty years, he had finally gathered all the ingredients for the Youth Retaining Pill.


    The most difficult part of the Youth Retaining Pill was obtaining the main ingredient, which Lan Chang''an had acquired by killing Alchemist Hua.


    The reason it had taken so long to gather all the materials was that Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t been actively searching.


    He had simply made purchases as he came across the materials while visiting immortal cities for other reasons.


    ...


    After the trading session ended, Lan Chang''an left therge residence in the market.


    Next, he nned to find a ce where Senior Brother Zhuo could finally die.


    As long as the time and ce of death didn¡¯t match the battle at Wuqi Mountain, it would be fine.


    As for finding a scapegoat, it wasn¡¯t always necessary to force the issue; doing so could lead to mistakes.


    "Again?"


    As he left the private residence, Lan Chang''an felt that subtle spiritual sense pause on him for a moment, probing carefully.


    ¡°A Fake-Dan Immortal¡¯s spiritual sense. Could it be him?¡±


    At that moment, Lan Chang''an finally recognized the owner of that spiritual sense¡ªit was a Fake-Dan Immortal he was familiar with.


    A Fake-Dan Immortal, concealing their cultivation level and mingling in a Foundation Establishment trading meetup¡ªit was clear to Lan Chang''an what the person¡¯s intentions were.


    They were likely looking for a fat sheep.


    A seasoned and experienced rogue cultivator would prioritize efficiency and controlled risks.


    After a brief pause on Lan Chang''an, that spiritual sense hesitated before moving on. Eventually, it locked onto a fat middle-aged man with arge gray box on his back.


    The man appeared to be a traveling merchant, a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator. Though he hadn¡¯t traded any high-value items at the session, he had made arge number of transactions, mostly buying items at low prices.


    A thin, sallow-faced old man was watching the merchant from a distance, about a li away, without the merchant realizing it.


    Lan Chang''an sat down at a window seat in a tavern within the market.


    He merged his consciousness with the Nine Seal Stele, using the powerful spiritual sense of an Immortal to observe the scene.


    ¡°He¡¯s here in the Mo Family¡¯s market?¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not like he can stay in Huanglong Immortal City, which is controlled by his enemies. The Mo Family is hostile to Huanglong Mountain, after all. This medium-torge market is home to many wealthy Foundation Establishment cultivators, and the surrounding area is rtively chaotic, making it a good ce to fish in troubled waters.¡±


    Lan Chang''an knew that this Fake-Dan Immortal was rtively poorpared to others at his level and not particrly strong.


    ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s fate. You¡¯re the one.¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly and decided to slightly adjust his n along the way.


    Rip little scapegoat

 Chapter 177: Shifting Blame

    Chapter 177: Shifting me


    The fat-headed merchant did not leave Red Water Market immediately. After the trading session ended, he returned to his inn.


    The next day, an elderly man with a slightly chubby face and flowery beard emerged from the inn and wandered around the market stalls for about half an hour, buying two low-value items.


    The elderly man with the flowery beard was none other than the merchant in disguise, and neither identity was his true appearance.


    Even though he switched identities, he couldn¡¯t escape the deliberate surveince of the Fake-Dan Immortal.


    Two dayster.


    About two to three hundred li outside Red Water Market.


    The fat merchant with the gray box on his back was riding a ck-and-gray second-rank flying bird, weaving through the clouds.


    Apart from Lan Chang''an and the Fake-Dan Immortal who had hidden his identity and cultivation, no one noticed when he slipped out of the market.¡°Are you a merchant, fellow Daoist? I have an ancient artifact that was unearthed not long ago and am looking for someone to appraise it for sale.¡±


    A burly man in a ck robe flew towards him through the clouds.


    ¡°Sorry, I don¡¯t trade with people outside the market,¡± the fat merchant said cautiously, even though the ck-robed man only appeared to be at the early Foundation Establishment stage.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a look at this item¡ª¡±


    ¡°No need!¡±


    The merchant controlled his flying bird, intending to go around the man.


    ¡°Your Excellency is so ungrateful, don¡¯t me this one for being forceful.¡±


    The ck-robed man¡¯s face darkened, and his figure suddenly blurred, leaving only an afterimage in ce.


    ¡°Late Foundation Establishment!¡±


    The merchant¡¯s expression changed dramatically as he suddenly felt a powerful spiritual pressure from a peak Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Whoosh!


    A ck fist, surrounded by violent winds, appeared before him in the blink of an eye.


    Prepared for trouble, the merchant quickly summoned a supreme-grade defensive silver shield. A silver light screen in the shape of an arc protected him from the front.


    Boom! Crack!


    The silver shield trembled violently, and the condensed silver light screen shattered instantly. Several cracks appeared on the supreme-grade defensive magical weapon, and its spiritual light dimmed to almost nothing.


    ¡°No! You¡¯re not just Foundation Establishment¡ª¡±


    The merchant was terrified, retreating rapidly. He pped two talismans onto himself, both of which were second-rank superior grades.


    One was a defensive talisman, and the other was an escape talisman.


    Abandoning the supreme-grade defensive magical weapon, he sent his flying bird to attack the ck-robed man while he used the escape talisman to flee.


    As a traveling merchant, he had no shortage of life-saving methods.


    ¡°Trying to escape? It won¡¯t be that easy.¡±


    At this moment, the ck-robed man¡¯s body emitted faint pulses of Core power, and his physical strength was formidable.


    With one punch, he sent the supreme-grade magical weapon flying, and with another, he punched through the second-rank flying bird¡¯s abdomen, destroying it effortlessly.


    Whoosh!


    Like an arrow leaving the bow, the ck-robed man rapidly closed in on the fleeing merchant, who was being boosted by the escape talisman.


    The Immortal-level spiritual energy was too conspicuous.


    Therefore, the ck-robed man restrained his use of Core power, only using forty to fifty percent of his strength,bined with his physical power, to ensure he killed the target without causing too muchmotion.


    ¡°Please, Immortal, spare me! I¡¯m willing to hand over all my possessions!¡± The merchant, in despair, pleaded for his life.


    The ck-robed man ignored him, manipting a supreme-grade flying knife magical weapon. The bright de shed through the air, cutting through the merchant¡¯s defensive shield and sending him plummeting to the ground.


    Whoosh!


    At that moment, a streak of light flew in from a distance, radiating the aura of ate Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    ¡°Tsk, tsk, murder and robbery? And I happened to stumble upon it.¡±


    The neer was a young man wearing a bamboo hat. He didn¡¯t make any effort to avoid the fleeing pair, appearing quite confident.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist, please help me! Ah¡­¡±


    Before the merchant¡¯s body could hit the ground, it was sliced in half by a Core power-infused strike.


    ¡°Wait, this aura... a Fake-Dan Immortal¡ª¡±


    As he got closer, the young man in the bamboo hat¡¯s expression changed drastically. Without a second thought, he turned and fled.


    ...


    The ck-robed man pulled over the items from the merchant¡¯s body and then looked at the fleeing Foundation Establishment young man in the bamboo hat.


    ¡°Unlucky!¡±


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s face darkened.


    In order to avoid revealing his identity and cultivation, he had been careful to restrain his use of Immortal-level spiritual energy. Otherwise, he would have to change ces immediately after each job, attracting the sect¡¯s attention.


    Unexpectedly, there happened to be a strong yer at the peak of Foundation Establishment passing by in the vicinity.


    Judging by the opponent¡¯s spiritual energy fluctuations, he was by no means a rogue cultivator.


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve seen this, you¡¯ll have to pay the price!¡±


    Xiang Jinglong sneered, deciding not to hide any longer. His Core power surged as he quickly moved to kill the young man in the bamboo hat.


    The young man in the bamboo hat, though his appearance differed, had the exact same cultivation and aura as Senior Brother Zhuo.


    Even though Xiang Jinglong had hidden his identity, he didn¡¯t want to leave a witness behind and nned to relocate after finishing this job, keeping a low profile for a while.


    ¡°Fake-Dan Immortal, killing and seizing treasures! It¡¯s shameful that such scum exists in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world!¡±


    The young man in the bamboo hat shouted as he channeled his mana.


    ¡°Seeking death!¡±


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s face turned grim. As soon as he was within attack range, he manipted the supreme-grade flying knife magical weapon to strike at the young man in the bamboo hat.


    Though he had hidden his identity, as long as he didn¡¯t use his unique magical treasure and wasn¡¯t witnessed by someone familiar, he wouldn¡¯t easily be exposed.


    ¡°Senior, please be merciful, I''m just passing through¡ª¡±


    The young man in the bamboo hat hurriedly summoned a ck umbre magical weapon, raising a dense ck me barrier to protect himself.


    This supreme-grade magical weapon was one of the finest of its kind and had been used by the ¡°Night Fisherman¡± before.


    With a loud bang, the ck me shield was shattered, and the fiery shockwave swept across dozens of zhang.


    Before the mes and dust had even settled, a streak of azure light shot through the sky, speeding away like a meteor.


    ¡°A quasi-third-rank escape talisman!¡±


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s expression shifted slightly, and his brow furrowed.


    Speed was not his strong suit. Catching up to this person would likely take considerable effort.


    Moreover, it could lead to furtherplications, potentially revealing his identity.


    ¡°Fake-Dan Immortal, killing and seizing treasures¡ª¡±


    As the azure light fled, the young man in the bamboo hat transmitted his voice to the surroundings.


    Hearing this, Xiang Jinglong hesitated to give chase. After all, they were near the market, where there were many cultivators around.


    ¡°Hahaha! To be able to escape from ¡®Old He,¡¯ you¡¯ve got some skill, kid!¡±


    Xiang Jinglongughed aloud, transmitting his voice over several li before changing direction and flying towards a remote area.


    ...


    ¡°Old He?¡±


    The young man in the bamboo hat showed a peculiar expression, confirming that the Fake-Dan Immortal had given up the chase.


    He hadn¡¯t expected Xiang Jinglong to be so cautious in his actions this time.


    Xiang Jinglong had not exposed his identity nor used his personal magical treasure.


    When Xiang Jinglongmitted murder and robbery, he had concealed his spiritual energy and used only supreme-grade magical weapons.


    If it weren¡¯t for the young man in the bamboo hat showing up, any nearby cultivators would have mistaken him for ate Foundation Establishment cultivator as long as they didn¡¯t get too close.


    However, Xiang Jinglong¡¯s cultivation level as a Fake-Dan Immortal had ultimately been revealed.


    ¡°No matter if you¡¯re Xiang Jinglong or He Yuanwu. As long as Senior Brother Zhuo left traces nearby and had an encounter with a Fake-Dan Immortal, the pot has been dumped.¡±


    Lan Chang''an, who had taken on the appearance of the young man in the bamboo hat using the ¡°Hundred Illusions Mask,¡± held the ck umbre magical weapon once owned by the Night Fisherman as he rapidly fled through the sky.


    Since they were near the market, it was inevitable that other cultivators would notice along the way.


    The quasi-third-rank escape talisman he used was the one that Senior Brother Zhuo had obtained from Song Wenshu.


    The spiritual energy fluctuations, the magical weapon used, and the escape methods all aligned perfectly with the ¡°deceased identity.¡±


    ...


    Two hourster.


    Several hundred li outside Red Water Market, near the entrance of a snake¡¯s den at the foot of a cliff.


    Lan Chang''an stood in the shade of a tree, observing the situation at the entrance of the snake¡¯s den.


    Because Senior Brother Zhuo had been ced under a restriction, there were no signs of movement from within the den.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat stood by his feet, curiously watching.


    After about the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, Lan Chang''an confirmed that Senior Brother Zhuo hadpletely stopped breathing.


    It wasn¡¯t that Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want to give Senior Brother Zhuo a quick death.


    The main reason was that this person had a significant background¡ªhe was the great-grandson of a Core Formation elder of me Departing Pce.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had known about a certain secret technique rted to death markings.


    Certain ancient sects could ce such a marking on their direct descendants, if one of these marked individuals was killed, the murderer would be tainted with a trace of the marking or leave behind a sign.


    Though the likelihood of this applying to Senior Brother Zhuo was low, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want to take any chances.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing unusual¡­¡±


    After waiting for a while longer, Lan Chang''an merged his consciousness with the Nine Seal Stele, using its powerful spiritual sense amplification to examine the interior of the snake¡¯s den.


    Whoosh!


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an cast a fire spell, and searing mes engulfed the snake¡¯s den, thoroughly destroying all evidence.


    After finishing up, he adjusted his appearance once again and began his journey back.


    ¡°Not half a year has passed since the battle with the ¡®Night Fisherman.¡¯ Under normal circumstances, Senior Brother Zhuo should have recovered by now, and only a Fake-Dan Immortal or stronger could kill him.¡±


    ¡°Time, ce, and characters¡ªall have been distanced from Wuqi Mountain.¡±


    On his way back, Lan Chang''an mentally reviewed everything, ensuring that there were no obvious ws.


    ...


    Hintend of Liang Kingdom.


    Over a vastke of dark red, scaldingva stood a grand and radiant pceplex.


    This was the location of ¡°me Departing Pce,¡± the number one sect in the Liang Kingdom, situated within an underground space spanning hundreds of li, where the fire spiritual energy was exceptionally abundant.


    At the me Departing Pce gate, within the Law Enforcement Hall.


    In a solemn, cold hall.


    Clink! Crack!


    A middle-aged man with thick eyebrows and a square face, d in iron armor and at the early Core Formation Realm, opened his hand to reveal a shattered blood jade.


    ¡°The northeast direction, near the Mo Family¡¯s region¡­¡±


    The iron-armored middle-aged man gazed at the broken blood jade in his hand, closing his eyes to sense for a few breaths, and came to a preliminary conclusion.


    His face showed a slight gloom.


    Such a good chess piece is dead so suddenly.


    After pondering for a moment, the iron-armored middle-aged man sent out a transmission talisman and then closed his eyes to rest his mind.


    Half a dayter.


    A refined-looking man in a green robe hurried over.


    ¡°Disciple Song Wenshu greets Deputy Hall Master Fang!¡±


    The green-robed man respectfully bowed.


    The iron-armored middle-aged man before him was the Deputy Hall Master of the me Departing Pce Law Enforcement Hall.


    The Hall Master of the Law Enforcement Hall is also held by the Law Enforcement Elder.


    This Deputy Hall Master Fang was essentially the second-inmand of the enforcement arm of a Nascent Soul-level sect.


    ¡°Zhuo Yangping is dead.¡±


    The iron-armored middle-aged man¡¯s tone was calm, but there was an inexplicable sense of oppression within the hall.


    ¡°Senior Brother Zhuo is dead?¡± Song Wenshu¡¯s face shook in disbelief.


    ¡°Senior Brother Zhuo had a magical treasure prototype and a quasi-third-rank escape talisman. Unless an Immortal strikes¡­¡±


    To be precise, even if a Fake-Dan Immortal wanted to kill Senior Brother Zhuo, it would take some effort.


    ¡°With Zhuo Yangping¡¯s strength, he wouldn¡¯t have died without leaving a trace.¡±


    The iron-armored middle-aged man paused for a moment before giving instructions:


    ¡°Wenshu, you investigate this matter privately. Don¡¯t alert the others within the sect.¡±

 Chapter 178: A Satisfying Outcome

    Chapter 178: A Satisfying Oue


    A monthter.


    At Wuqi Mountain, on the Little Pill Peak.


    Ye Fei invited Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong, the two peak masters, to his cave residence to drink and rejoice.


    ¡°Haha, this is truly satisfying! That ''Xiang Immortal'' who once came to Wuqi Mountain to y the bully back then is now on me Departing Pce¡¯s wanted list,¡± Ye Fei said cheerfully, raising his cup in celebration.


    ¡°You¡¯re talking about Xiang Jinglong?¡± Lan Chang''an paused, showing genuine surprise¡ªnot just acting.


    Since returning from Red Water Market over half a month ago, everything has been quiet. There was no unusual reaction from me Departing Pce, and no cultivators like Song Wenshu hade to Wuqi Mountain to investigate.


    To avoid suspicion, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t actively sought out information.


    It wasn¡¯t until now that he learned the relevant news.¡°Yes! That scoundrel Xiang Jinglong! His name has appeared on the wanted list for sect missions from me Departing Pce,¡± Ye Fei said confidently, his face glowing with satisfaction.


    Back then, Xiang Jinglong hade to Little Pill Peak, taking what he wanted without paying, and left Ye Fei feeling aggrieved. It would be a lie to say there was no lingering resentment.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong is a Fake-Dan Immortal. What could he have done to be wanted by me Departing Pce?¡± Shi Manrong asked, surprised.


    ¡°It¡¯s said that over the years, he¡¯s secretly been acting as a rogue cultivator,mitting numerous crimes of bullying the weak, murdering, and stealing treasures. Among his victims were the rtives and descendants of me Departing Pce cultivators. Several such cases umted, creating a significant impact and drawing the attention of me Departing Pce¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall,¡± Ye Fei exined.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong is well-known among loose cultivators, but his reputation is terrible. Many cultivators will be pleased to see him be a wanted man,¡± Fairy Shi smiled softly, clearly in a good mood without delving too deeply into the matter.


    Upon learning the reason for Xiang Jinglong¡¯s being wanted, Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes flickered, and he couldn¡¯t help but chuckle inwardly.


    That day, when Xiang Jinglong acted near Red Water Market, he did not reveal his identity, including any distinctive magical treasures or techniques.


    He had even referred to himself as ¡°He,¡± trying to throw off any suspicion.


    But in the end, he still couldn''t escape me.


    ...


    As the top sect in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world and a Nascent Soul-level power, me Departing Pce¡¯s intelligencework and investigative capabilities were beyond the imagination of ordinary cultivators.


    Even though Xiang Jinglong was cautious and didn¡¯t leave obvious clues, merely staying in the vicinity of Red Water Market for a while and leaving behind some traces might have been enough for me Departing Pce to investigate and draw conclusions.


    Of course, the official reason for Xiang Jinglong¡¯s being wanted was rted to his past crimes.


    But only Lan Chang''an knew the real reason¡ªSenior Brother Zhuo¡¯s death had displeased the higher-ups in me Departing Pce, leading them to decide to punish Xiang Jinglong.


    Having lived through several lifetimes, Lan Chang''an had seen simr situations before.


    Sometimes, when powerful forces suddenly decided to punish a ¡°viin,¡± it might seem like they were ridding the world of evil for the benefit of lower-level cultivators, garnering widespread praise.


    But the truth could be that the viin had offended someone important in the higher echelons, or it was the result of power struggles among the upper ranks, with the viin being used as a scapegoat. The authorities would dig through the viin¡¯s past crimes andints to find an excuse to convict them, sometimes even dragging in opponents of the higher-ups in the process.


    The real motivation often came from the top down, rather than the bottom up, seeking justice for lower-level cultivators.


    Otherwise, rogue cultivators like Xiang Jinglong, who operated in the gray areas, wouldn¡¯t have only been targeted now, after so many years.


    There was an unspoken rule in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world:


    Immortal-level cultivators wouldn¡¯t be easily targeted by their sects unless theymitted major crimes or left undeniable evidence.


    After all, an Immortal wasn¡¯t easy to apprehend, and attempting to do so might invite bacsh.


    ¡°This Xiang Immortal, I''m afraid he doesn''t even know why he¡¯s really being hunted,¡± Lan Chang''an mused with a faint smile as he returned to Little Turtle Peak.


    It wasn¡¯t that Xiang Jinglong was foolish, he simply didn¡¯t know Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s identity or the intricacies of the situation.


    He likely didn¡¯t even realize whom he had offended.


    ...


    Over the following months.


    Lan Chang''an quietly kept tabs on the situation with Xiang Immortal being wanted, though he made sure not to seem too interested.


    During this time, various rumors spread.


    Some said that Xiang Jinglong had been seriously injured by sect cultivators.


    Others imed that Xiang Immortal had gone into hiding among mortals or even fled to a neighboring country.


    Based on the rumors, it seemed me Departing Pce was putting considerable effort into hunting down Xiang Jinglong.


    Then, a few days after Lan Chang''an turned one hundred twenty-nine years old, Song Wenshu visited Wuqi Mountain, bringing definitive news.


    Song Wenshu wasn¡¯t alone.


    He was apanied by an emaciated, hollow-eyed old man in a long robe.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist¡­ Lin?¡±


    ¡°Alchemist Lin?¡±


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong were shocked to see the old man in the robe. From his facial features and the dark red blotches on his skin, they recognized him.


    This man was none other than Alchemist Lin Ye, the previous peak master of Little Pill Peak.


    After a brief examination, Lan Chang''an noticed that Lin Ye¡¯s cultivation had regressed to the early Foundation Establishment stage. His body was damaged, likely from torture, and his mind seemed hazy.


    It had been over twenty years since Alchemist Lin left Wuqi Mountain, and subsequently disappeared without a trace.


    At that time, Alchemist Lin had said he was returning to his homnd to enjoy his twilight years.


    Given the situation, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong hadn¡¯t pursued the matter, assuming Alchemist Lin had cut ties with the cultivation world.


    The cultivation world was like that¡ªacross the long years, countless people woulde and go. Even those with long lifespans couldn¡¯t possibly keep track of the fate and final destination of every acquaintance.


    ¡°Lan¡­ Daoist¡­ Shi¡­ Fairy Shi.¡±


    Lin Ye managed a forced smile, looking slightly foolish as he stuttered out his words.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lin was imprisoned by Xiang Jinglong for over twenty years, forced to refine pills day and night while enduring various forms of torture and restrictions. His sea of consciousness was damaged, leaving him with somesting cognitive impairments,¡± Song Wenshu exined through a private transmission.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong looked at each other and sighed in sympathy.


    Aftermunicating for a while, Lan Chang''an concluded that Lin Ye now had the mental capacity of a three- or four-year-old child.


    His memories were fragmented and chaotic, but he still had a strong attachment to Wuqi Mountain and a deep impression of Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong.


    ¡°After being rescued, Lin Ye, though not fully lucid, requested toe to Wuqi Mountain,¡± Song Wenshu added.


    Lan Chang''an nodded and invited Song Wenshu to Little Turtle Peak¡¯s cave mansion.


    ¡°Little Pill Peak¡­¡±


    Lin Ye murmured, his eyes fixed on the tallest peak nearby. He refused to move.


    ...


    Not long after.


    The three peak masters, along with Song Wenshu and Alchemist Lin, sat in the cave residence on Little Pill Peak.


    Once they arrived at Little Pill Peak, Alchemist Lin¡¯s expression became peaceful as he immersed himself in the surroundings, taking in every brick, tile, nt, and tree.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Song, has your esteemed sect captured Xiang Jinglong?¡± Lan Chang''an asked seriously.


    Given the current situation, it was only natural to inquire about Xiang Jinglong.


    ¡°¡­We set up an inescapable and severely injured Xiang Jinglong, cornering him. However, at the critical moment, something unexpected happened,¡± Song Wenshu sighed.


    ¡°What sort of unexpected event?¡± The three peak masters couldn¡¯t help but be curious.


    For other sects, apprehending a Fake-Dan Immortal would be no small feat.


    But as the dominant force in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world, if me Departing Pce was determined to see a Fake-Dan cultivator dead, it was almost impossible for them to escape.


    ¡°If it¡¯s ssified, Brother Song needn¡¯t divulge it,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a smile, noticing Song Wenshu¡¯s hesitation.


    ¡°This matter is no longer much of a secret within the sect,¡± Song Wenshu replied after a brief pause.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong, that scoundrel, in order to save his life, actually colluded with remnants of the demonic sect. At the Liang Kingdom border, this person was rescued by ¡®Li Hai,¡¯ the great disciple of Liang Shaotian.¡±


    ¡°Remnants of the demonic sect! Liang Shaotian¡¯s great disciple?¡±


    The three peak masters were visibly moved.


    Decades ago, Liang Shaotian had ascended to the Core Formation Realm and fought several Immortals alone in the sect extermination battle before escaping with serious injuries.


    Though he had been dormant for many years and was rumored to have fled to another country, Liang Shaotian had left behind a formidable reputation in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world as a leader of demonic sect remnants.


    His eldest disciple, Li Hai, while not as fortunate as his master, was a genius with an earth spiritual root, and was taught the powerful inheritance of the devil''s way by his master. His strength far surpassed others of his rank.


    Li Hai had once caused a great disturbance in the ¡°Green Underworld Mysterious Realm,¡± avenging his master Liang Shaotian by killing ¡°Xia Fan,¡± the grandson of the me Departing Pce Law Enforcement Elder.


    It was in that battle that Li Hai made his name, killing ate Foundation Establishment cultivator despite being only at the peak of mid Foundation Establishment.


    Over forty years had passed, and this demonic prodigy with the earth spiritual root had ascended to the Core Formation Realm, rescuing Xiang Jinglong at the Liang Kingdom border.


    ¡°Liang Shaotian, Li Hai, Xiang Jinglong¡­¡±


    Thinking about the possibility of these few peopleing together, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a strange sensation.


    ¡°Regarding this matter, the few of you should not publicize it outside,¡± Song Wenshu advised.


    The failure to capture Xiang Jinglong, coupled with the involvement of demonic sect remnants, was damaging to the me Departing Pce¡¯s reputation.


    ¡°Rest assured, Fellow Daoist Song. We aren¡¯t the type to gossip,¡± Ye Fei solemnly assured.


    Everyone present understood that this matter wouldn¡¯t remain hidden for long at the upper levels of power.


    The news of demonic sect remnants was a harbinger of turbulent times toe, signaling a storm on the horizon.


    Back then, Liang Shaotian had attempted to revive the Xuanyin Demonic Sect and establish a secret stronghold, but his efforts were crushed by the joint efforts of the sects, ending in failure.


    All of these developments had been within Lan Chang''an¡¯s expectations.


    Previously, he hadn¡¯t been optimistic about Liang Shaotian¡¯s chances.


    The primary reason was that the situation in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world, and even in neighboring cultivation nations, had been very stable a few decades ago, there was no fertile ground for the rise of demonic sects.


    No matter how talented or fortunate Liang Shaotian was, he couldn¡¯t fight against the general trend.


    ¡°However, it seems that troubled times are upon us¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an realized that he might have to reconsider his previous doubts about Liang Shaotian¡¯s chances of achieving his ambitions.


    If the war in the neighboring cultivation nation didn¡¯t end soon, the remnants of the demonic sects in Liang would wee their first opportunity in centuries to rise once more.


    A monthter.


    At Wuqi Mountain, on the Little Pill Peak.


    Ye Fei invited Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong, the two peak masters, to his cave residence to drink and rejoice.


    ¡°Haha, this is truly satisfying! That ''Xiang Immortal'' who once came to Wuqi Mountain to y the bully back then is now on me Departing Pce¡¯s wanted list,¡± Ye Fei said cheerfully, raising his cup in celebration.


    ¡°You¡¯re talking about Xiang Jinglong?¡± Lan Chang''an paused, showing genuine surprise¡ªnot just acting.


    Since returning from Red Water Market over half a month ago, everything has been quiet. There was no unusual reaction from me Departing Pce, and no cultivators like Song Wenshu hade to Wuqi Mountain to investigate.


    To avoid suspicion, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t actively sought out information.


    It wasn¡¯t until now that he learned the relevant news.


    ¡°Yes! That scoundrel Xiang Jinglong! His name has appeared on the wanted list for sect missions from me Departing Pce,¡± Ye Fei said confidently, his face glowing with satisfaction.


    Back then, Xiang Jinglong hade to Little Pill Peak, taking what he wanted without paying, and left Ye Fei feeling aggrieved. It would be a lie to say there was no lingering resentment.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong is a Fake-Dan Immortal. What could he have done to be wanted by me Departing Pce?¡± Shi Manrong asked, surprised.


    ¡°It¡¯s said that over the years, he¡¯s secretly been acting as a rogue cultivator,mitting numerous crimes of bullying the weak, murdering, and stealing treasures. Among his victims were the rtives and descendants of me Departing Pce cultivators. Several such cases umted, creating a significant impact and drawing the attention of me Departing Pce¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall,¡± Ye Fei exined.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong is well-known among loose cultivators, but his reputation is terrible. Many cultivators will be pleased to see him be a wanted man,¡± Fairy Shi smiled softly, clearly in a good mood without delving too deeply into the matter.


    Upon learning the reason for Xiang Jinglong¡¯s being wanted, Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes flickered, and he couldn¡¯t help but chuckle inwardly.


    That day, when Xiang Jinglong acted near Red Water Market, he did not reveal his identity, including any distinctive magical treasures or techniques.


    He had even referred to himself as ¡°He,¡± trying to throw off any suspicion.


    But in the end, he still couldn''t escape me.


    ...


    As the top sect in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world and a Nascent Soul-level power, me Departing Pce¡¯s intelligencework and investigative capabilities were beyond the imagination of ordinary cultivators.


    Even though Xiang Jinglong was cautious and didn¡¯t leave obvious clues, merely staying in the vicinity of Red Water Market for a while and leaving behind some traces might have been enough for me Departing Pce to investigate and draw conclusions.


    Of course, the official reason for Xiang Jinglong¡¯s being wanted was rted to his past crimes.


    But only Lan Chang''an knew the real reason¡ªSenior Brother Zhuo¡¯s death had displeased the higher-ups in me Departing Pce, leading them to decide to punish Xiang Jinglong.


    Having lived through several lifetimes, Lan Chang''an had seen simr situations before.


    Sometimes, when powerful forces suddenly decided to punish a ¡°viin,¡± it might seem like they were ridding the world of evil for the benefit of lower-level cultivators, garnering widespread praise.


    But the truth could be that the viin had offended someone important in the higher echelons, or it was the result of power struggles among the upper ranks, with the viin being used as a scapegoat. The authorities would dig through the viin¡¯s past crimes andints to find an excuse to convict them, sometimes even dragging in opponents of the higher-ups in the process.


    The real motivation often came from the top down, rather than the bottom up, seeking justice for lower-level cultivators.


    Otherwise, rogue cultivators like Xiang Jinglong, who operated in the gray areas, wouldn¡¯t have only been targeted now, after so many years.


    There was an unspoken rule in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world:


    Immortal-level cultivators wouldn¡¯t be easily targeted by their sects unless theymitted major crimes or left undeniable evidence.


    After all, an Immortal wasn¡¯t easy to apprehend, and attempting to do so might invite bacsh.


    ¡°This Xiang Immortal, I''m afraid he doesn''t even know why he¡¯s really being hunted,¡± Lan Chang''an mused with a faint smile as he returned to Little Turtle Peak.


    It wasn¡¯t that Xiang Jinglong was foolish, he simply didn¡¯t know Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s identity or the intricacies of the situation.


    He likely didn¡¯t even realize whom he had offended.


    ...


    Over the following months.


    Lan Chang''an quietly kept tabs on the situation with Xiang Immortal being wanted, though he made sure not to seem too interested.


    During this time, various rumors spread.


    Some said that Xiang Jinglong had been seriously injured by sect cultivators.


    Others imed that Xiang Immortal had gone into hiding among mortals or even fled to a neighboring country.


    Based on the rumors, it seemed me Departing Pce was putting considerable effort into hunting down Xiang Jinglong.


    Then, a few days after Lan Chang''an turned one hundred twenty-nine years old, Song Wenshu visited Wuqi Mountain, bringing definitive news.


    Song Wenshu wasn¡¯t alone.


    He was apanied by an emaciated, hollow-eyed old man in a long robe.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist¡­ Lin?¡±


    ¡°Alchemist Lin?¡±


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong were shocked to see the old man in the robe. From his facial features and the dark red blotches on his skin, they recognized him.


    This man was none other than Alchemist Lin Ye, the previous peak master of Little Pill Peak.


    After a brief examination, Lan Chang''an noticed that Lin Ye¡¯s cultivation had regressed to the early Foundation Establishment stage. His body was damaged, likely from torture, and his mind seemed hazy.


    It had been over twenty years since Alchemist Lin left Wuqi Mountain, and subsequently disappeared without a trace.


    At that time, Alchemist Lin had said he was returning to his homnd to enjoy his twilight years.


    Given the situation, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong hadn¡¯t pursued the matter, assuming Alchemist Lin had cut ties with the cultivation world.


    The cultivation world was like that¡ªacross the long years, countless people woulde and go. Even those with long lifespans couldn¡¯t possibly keep track of the fate and final destination of every acquaintance.


    ¡°Lan¡­ Daoist¡­ Shi¡­ Fairy Shi.¡±


    Lin Ye managed a forced smile, looking slightly foolish as he stuttered out his words.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lin was imprisoned by Xiang Jinglong for over twenty years, forced to refine pills day and night while enduring various forms of torture and restrictions. His sea of consciousness was damaged, leaving him with somesting cognitive impairments,¡± Song Wenshu exined through a private transmission.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong looked at each other and sighed in sympathy.


    Aftermunicating for a while, Lan Chang''an concluded that Lin Ye now had the mental capacity of a three- or four-year-old child.


    His memories were fragmented and chaotic, but he still had a strong attachment to Wuqi Mountain and a deep impression of Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong.


    ¡°After being rescued, Lin Ye, though not fully lucid, requested toe to Wuqi Mountain,¡± Song Wenshu added.


    Lan Chang''an nodded and invited Song Wenshu to Little Turtle Peak¡¯s cave mansion.


    ¡°Little Pill Peak¡­¡±


    Lin Ye murmured, his eyes fixed on the tallest peak nearby. He refused to move.


    ...


    Not long after.


    The three peak masters, along with Song Wenshu and Alchemist Lin, sat in the cave residence on Little Pill Peak.


    Once they arrived at Little Pill Peak, Alchemist Lin¡¯s expression became peaceful as he immersed himself in the surroundings, taking in every brick, tile, nt, and tree.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Song, has your esteemed sect captured Xiang Jinglong?¡± Lan Chang''an asked seriously.


    Given the current situation, it was only natural to inquire about Xiang Jinglong.


    ¡°¡­We set up an inescapable and severely injured Xiang Jinglong, cornering him. However, at the critical moment, something unexpected happened,¡± Song Wenshu sighed.


    ¡°What sort of unexpected event?¡± The three peak masters couldn¡¯t help but be curious.


    For other sects, apprehending a Fake-Dan Immortal would be no small feat.


    But as the dominant force in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world, if me Departing Pce was determined to see a Fake-Dan cultivator dead, it was almost impossible for them to escape.


    ¡°If it¡¯s ssified, Brother Song needn¡¯t divulge it,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a smile, noticing Song Wenshu¡¯s hesitation.


    ¡°This matter is no longer much of a secret within the sect,¡± Song Wenshu replied after a brief pause.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong, that scoundrel, in order to save his life, actually colluded with remnants of the demonic sect. At the Liang Kingdom border, this person was rescued by ¡®Li Hai,¡¯ the great disciple of Liang Shaotian.¡±


    ¡°Remnants of the demonic sect! Liang Shaotian¡¯s great disciple?¡±


    The three peak masters were visibly moved.


    Decades ago, Liang Shaotian had ascended to the Core Formation Realm and fought several Immortals alone in the sect extermination battle before escaping with serious injuries.


    Though he had been dormant for many years and was rumored to have fled to another country, Liang Shaotian had left behind a formidable reputation in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world as a leader of demonic sect remnants.


    His eldest disciple, Li Hai, while not as fortunate as his master, was a genius with an earth spiritual root, and was taught the powerful inheritance of the devil''s way by his master. His strength far surpassed others of his rank.


    Li Hai had once caused a great disturbance in the ¡°Green Underworld Mysterious Realm,¡± avenging his master Liang Shaotian by killing ¡°Xia Fan,¡± the grandson of the me Departing Pce Law Enforcement Elder.


    It was in that battle that Li Hai made his name, killing ate Foundation Establishment cultivator despite being only at the peak of mid Foundation Establishment.


    Over forty years had passed, and this demonic prodigy with the earth spiritual root had ascended to the Core Formation Realm, rescuing Xiang Jinglong at the Liang Kingdom border.


    ¡°Liang Shaotian, Li Hai, Xiang Jinglong¡­¡±


    Thinking about the possibility of these few peopleing together, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a strange sensation.


    ¡°Regarding this matter, the few of you should not publicize it outside,¡± Song Wenshu advised.


    The failure to capture Xiang Jinglong, coupled with the involvement of demonic sect remnants, was damaging to the me Departing Pce¡¯s reputation.


    ¡°Rest assured, Fellow Daoist Song. We aren¡¯t the type to gossip,¡± Ye Fei solemnly assured.


    Everyone present understood that this matter wouldn¡¯t remain hidden for long at the upper levels of power.


    The news of demonic sect remnants was a harbinger of turbulent times toe, signaling a storm on the horizon.


    Back then, Liang Shaotian had attempted to revive the Xuanyin Demonic Sect and establish a secret stronghold, but his efforts were crushed by the joint efforts of the sects, ending in failure.


    All of these developments had been within Lan Chang''an¡¯s expectations.


    Previously, he hadn¡¯t been optimistic about Liang Shaotian¡¯s chances.


    The primary reason was that the situation in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world, and even in neighboring cultivation nations, had been very stable a few decades ago, there was no fertile ground for the rise of demonic sects.


    No matter how talented or fortunate Liang Shaotian was, he couldn¡¯t fight against the general trend.


    ¡°However, it seems that troubled times are upon us¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an realized that he might have to reconsider his previous doubts about Liang Shaotian¡¯s chances of achieving his ambitions.


    If the war in the neighboring cultivation nation didn¡¯t end soon, the remnants of the demonic sects in Liang would wee their first opportunity in centuries to rise once more.

 Chapter 179: Sending Aid in the Snow

    Chapter 179: Sending Aid in the Snow


    This time, Song Wenshu stayed at Wuqi Mountain as a guest for half a day before taking his leave.


    As for Alchemist Lin Ye, who harbored a special affection for Wuqi Mountain and Little Pill Peak, it was agreed that he could stay in a guest room halfway up Little Pill Peak to recuperate. This would aid in his recovery.


    Alchemist Lin Ye still retained most of his alchemy skills and was willing to assist in pill refining in exchange forpensation during his stay. Previously, he had been questioned by me Departing Pce but was considered a victim and cleared of any wrongdoing.


    Lin Ye¡¯s cultivation had regressed, and his remaining lifespan was short. Considering his tragic fate and the past camaraderie, the peak masters of Wuqi Mountain made an exception for him.


    Song Wenshu had brought Lin Ye to Wuqi Mountain as a gesture of goodwill,pensating for the troubles caused by the "Night Fisherman" incident.


    This led Lan Chang''an to conclude that Song Wenshu bore no hostility toward Wuqi Mountain and was even willing to maintain a friendly rtionship with the three peak masters.


    In the cultivation world, alliances and enmities are not always ck and white, nor are they unchanging. Although Song Wenshu had a good rtionship with Senior Brother Zhuo, who had once been an enemy of Wuqi Mountain, he also had a favorable rtionship with the peak and no conflicts of interest, allowing him to expand his ownwork.


    Even the elite cultivators of the sect would avoid making unnecessary enemies....


    After seeing Song Wenshu off, the three peak masters chatted with Alchemist Lin Ye for a while before Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong returned to their respective peaks.


    ¡°With Xiang Jinglong bing a wanted man and fleeing Liang Kingdom, me Departing Pce hasn¡¯t suspected Wuqi Mountain. The ¡®Night Fisherman¡¯ affair has been neatly wrapped up,¡± Lan Chang''an thought, feeling at ease.


    Xiang Jinglong had been made the scapegoat once again, and Lan Chang''an had no qualms about it. After all, Xiang Jinglong had a history of bullying the weak, murdering, and robbing others. He had evene to Wuqi Mountain to throw his weight around and dine and dash.


    Lan Chang''an had no direct personal grudges against Xiang Jinglong, who was a Fake-Dan Immortal and had done himself two favors, so he did not spark any killing intent towards him.


    With this matter now resolved, Lan Chang''an began considering the future refining of the Youth Retaining Pill.


    He had gathered all the necessary materials for the pill.


    The only potential issue was the main ingredient, which had been obtained from Alchemist Hua.


    Alchemist Hua, in turn, had bought this ingredient from Xiang Jinglong before being targeted as a fat sheep.


    ¡°This matter urred many years ago. The main ingredient for the Youth Retaining Pill isn¡¯t unique. With Xiang Jinglong now a wanted man and having fled the Liang Kingdom, it shouldn¡¯t pose a significant problem,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    He intended to take the Youth Retaining Pill to conceal his true essence of youthfulness and agelessness.


    In this way, if he encountered a high realm cultivator in the future, it wouldn''t be easy to see the clues.


    Apart from the Youth Retaining Pill, Lan Chang''an also had most of the ingredients needed for a Crystal Condensation Pill, which was the most valuable loot from Senior Brother Zhuo¡¯s years of plundering.


    However, refining the Crystal Condensation Pill carried much greater risk, even if there were no grudges or loopholes.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lin Ye came to visit Lan Chang''an at Little Turtle Peak.


    ¡°How has Alchemist Lin adjusted to returning to Wuqi Mountain?¡± Lan Chang''an asked kindly, showing no signs of neglect despite Lin Ye¡¯s reduced status.


    ¡°Sinceing back to Little Pill Peak, I¡¯ve had the best sleep in a long time,¡± Lin Ye replied, showing visible improvement in his condition. His withered face managed a slight smile, and his expression was no longer as vacant as it had been before.


    They reminisced about the past, and Lin Ye seemed to recall most of it clearly, answering without issue. His memory, in fact, appeared even more intact than Fairy Shi¡¯s.


    This was somewhat different from how he had been a few days ago when they first met, causing Lan Chang''an to ponder.


    ¡°In truth, my sanity has mostly returned to normal, especially aftering back to Wuqi Mountain, where I feel much more at peace¡­¡± Lin Ye admitted with a bitter smile, beginning to reveal the truth.


    It turned out that Lin Ye¡¯s dazed state a few days ago had been partly an act. He had been fully aware all along.


    ¡°Why not simply pretend to the end, Alchemist Lin? Why reveal the truth to me?¡± Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t surprised by this.


    Once bitten, twice shy¡ªthis was Alchemist Lin Ye''s plight. A cultivator whose cultivation had fallen, who was growing old, yet still possessed profound alchemy skills, had value that made people miss him.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, in this Wuqi Mountain, you are the only person to whom this old man can open his heart. I also believe you won¡¯t plot against me,¡± Lin Ye said, taking a deep breath and speaking candidly.


    ¡°What merit or ability does Lan have to deserve such trust from you, Fellow Daoist Lin?¡± Lan Chang''an smiled.


    it seemed that his image of being a ¡°good old boy¡± for thest century, indifferently cultivating and avoiding conflicts, had deeply rooted itself in people''s minds.


    Throughout his long years of cultivation, while Lan Chang''an had asionally taken action to kill off potential threats, he had never proactively plotted against anyone.


    In this regard, Lin Ye had judged correctly.


    The two had known each other for decades at Wuqi Mountain and understood each other fairly well.


    ¡°Let me share with you some insider information,¡± Lin Ye continued.


    ¡°After I was captured by Xiang Jinglong, that scoundrel tortured me severely. When Alchemist Hua was killed, Xiang Jinglong became a suspect. He imed to have been framed and conducted an investigation. Alchemist Hua¡¯s enemies, including myself, were among the suspects.¡±


    ¡°However, I did not implicate you, Fellow Daoist Lan. Instead, I subtly misled him to suspect Fu Xuemei, hoping that one day Huanglong Mountain¡¯s forces would eliminate that viin.¡±


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an suddenly understood.


    No wonder Xiang Jinglong, after bing a Fake-Dan Immortal, had joined forces against Huanglong Mountain and harbored animosity toward Fu Xuemei. Seeking profit in the chaos was one reason; revenge was another.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lin, you are truly admirable. Despite being in such a dire situation, you maintained your principles and didn¡¯t drag down an old friend. I¡¯m impressed,¡± Lan Chang''an praised.


    When one¡¯s life and fate were controlled by others, the human heart was unpredictable. For ordinary people, it was hard to ensure that they wouldn''t pull others down with them.


    Back then, after Alchemist Hua¡¯s death, Lin Ye had subtly probed Lan Chang''an to gauge his reaction.


    This revealed that Lin Ye had harbored a slight suspicion of Lan Chang''an, even if only a small amount.


    Ultimately, Xiang Jinglong never suspected Lan Chang''an, proving that Alchemist Lin did not harbor any ill intentions toward him.


    ¡°Now that you¡¯ve shared this secret, Fellow Daoist Lin, is there something you need my help with?¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s thoughts turned, and he asked directly.


    Hearing this, Lin Ye looked relieved.


    If Lan Chang''an had been cold and distant, he wouldn''t have taken the initiative to mention such words.


    ...


    ¡°I have two wishes for the remainder of my life. The first is to see Xiang Jinglong brought to justice, and the second is to safely return to my homnd, train an heir to the Pill Dao for the rest of this life, and live out my days in peace.¡±


    ¡°As for the first, I believe I will see it fulfilled. Xiang Jinglong will inevitably meet his end due to his countless misdeeds.¡±


    ¡°But for the second, with my cultivation regressed and all my possessions looted by Xiang Jinglong, I severelyck the means to even protect myself¡­¡±


    Lin Ye¡¯s current situation was indeed dire. He was penniless, without even an ordinary magical weapon to protect himself.


    Lan Chang''an understood the purpose of Lin Ye¡¯s visit.


    If he were to give Lin Ye a few ordinary magical weapons and talismans, he wouldn¡¯t mind, but it likely wouldn¡¯t provide Lin Ye with much security.


    Especially now, the world was more chaotic than ever.


    However, giving Lin Ye a full set of supreme-grade magical weapons and high-quality talismans would be too costly for Lan Chang''an, turning him into a benevolent benefactor.


    ¡°How is Fellow Daoist''s current alchemy skillpared to before?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°After refining pills day and night under harsh conditions for so many years, my alchemy skills have actually been sharpened beyond what they were before, more than enough to make up for the difference in cultivation,¡± Lin Ye admitted honestly.


    ¡°I¡¯m willing to exchange my alchemy skills forpensation, purchasing magical weapons, talismans, and other items to protect the dao from you, Fellow Daoist Lan.¡±


    ¡°Do you need a breakthrough pill for thete Foundation Establishment stage? I¡¯m confident in my ability to refine it, with a sess rate higher than Ye Fei¡¯s.¡±


    Now that the discussion had turned to alchemy, Lin Ye regained some of his former confidence.


    He believed that Lan Chang''an, having remained at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage for so many years, would undoubtedly be interested in such a pill.


    ¡°Well, if I get all the materials together, I''ll be obliged to have Alchemist Lin make a move at that time,¡± Lan Chang''an smiled and smoothly agreed to the matter.


    Ate-stage Foundation Establishment breakthrough pill could serve as a front for when he advances in the future.


    If Lin Ye¡¯s sess rate was good, Lan Chang''an could collect the materials and make a good profit from the refined pills.


    ¡°I also need pills that enhance mana, even if they have significant side effects¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an mentioned other types of pills as well.


    He had already consumed the three Blood Yang Pills he had obtained from Alchemist Hua, which greatly enhanced a Foundation Establishment cultivator¡¯s magical power.


    The side effects of Blood Yang Pills were rtively mild.


    Some pills, however, would overdraw life force and consume longevity, and in return, had even more terrifying increases in mana.


    With Lan Chang''an¡¯s long lifespan, the cost was rtively eptable as long as he didn¡¯t use them frequently.


    In critical moments, such pills would be an excellent means of protection.


    ¡°Old me specializes in such pills!¡± Alchemist Lin readily agreed.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, can you refine the Youth Retaining Pill?¡± Lan Chang''an asked, as if remembering something.


    ¡°Youth Retaining Pill? Its difficulty isn¡¯t high among second-rank pills. I¡¯ve only refined it twice before, but I can guarantee the sess rate,¡± Lin Ye said with a hint of surprise but didn¡¯t probe further.


    The Youth Retaining Pill wasn¡¯t as valuable as a Foundation Establishment Pill or a Crystal Condensation Pill.


    For a second-rank superior-grade alchemist, it was a rtively simple task.


    ¡°Good, I¡¯ll leave these three types of pills to you, Alchemist Lin.¡±


    After further discussion, Lan Chang''an and Alchemist Lin reached a preliminary agreement.


    In addition, Alchemist Lin promised to let Lan Chang''an observe his pill refining and answer any questions he might have.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of irony. The once lofty and sought-after alchemist had now fallen so far that he had be a parasite, eager to please.


    Beyond the transaction itself, Lin Ye also hoped to build a good rtionship with Lan Chang''an, seeking future support and protection.


    ¡°Rest assured, Fellow Daoist Lan. In the past, when I refined pills for others, keeping my employer¡¯s secrets was part of my duty.¡±


    After a few pleasantries, Alchemist Lin took his leave.


    In truth, even if the matter of the Youth Retaining Pill were to be leaked, it wouldn¡¯t be a significant issue. It might even have some benefits.


    The situation was different now.


    With Lan Chang''an¡¯s current strength and status, he was more than capable of handling ¡°hot potatoes¡± like Foundation Establishment Pills or breakthrough pills.


    ...


    Back in his guest room at Little Pill Peak, Lin Ye fell into deep thought.


    Back when Alchemist Hua died, he had harbored a slight suspicion toward Lan Chang''an, though it wasn¡¯t much. After some subtle probing, his doubts werergely dispelled.


    Over the past few days, he had learned about the current situation outside.


    Fu Xuemei of Huanglong Mountain had nearly failed to form her Core. The quality of her core was far below the expectations of Huanglong Mountain lineage, afraid she might fade into obscurity within the Core Formation Realm.


    ¡°I heard Ye Fei say that Xiang Jinglong came to Wuqi Mountain a few years ago to cause trouble.¡±


    ¡°Alchemist Hua, Fu Xuemei, Xiang Jinglong¡­ none of them met a good end.¡±


    A thought urred to Lin Ye, sending a chill down his spine.


    Reason told him he was likely overthinking things, but intuition gave him a sense that he was close to the truth.


    If it wasn¡¯t just a coincidence, then what he knew about Lan Chang''an might only be the tip of the iceberg.


    Lin Ye quickly shook his head. No matter what the truth was, his best course of action was to focus on refining good pills and not ask too many questions.


    At least Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t his enemy. They had once faced amon foe.


    In the cultivation world that had opened up to chaotic times, there weren''t many cultivators who would send charcoal in the snow.

 Chapter 180: A Visit from an Immortal

    Chapter 180: A Visit from an Immortal


    At Little Turtle Peak.


    After sending off Alchemist Lin Ye, Lan Chang''an fell into brief contemtion, making some minor adjustments to his future ns.


    "Nearly ten years have passed since the battle at Huanglong Mountain. The once most prominent loose cultivator of Liang Kingdom, ''Huanglong Immortal,'' has at most seven or eight years of lifespan left."


    "The favor that Fu Xuemei promised back then, it''s time to find an opportunity to cash it in."


    Even though Huanglong Immortal is old, his influence and connections are not to be underestimated.


    Once he passes away, the structure of Huanglong Immortal City might change, and the prestige of the Huanglong Mountain lineage will likely hit a low point.


    Fu Xuemei, despite having an earth spiritual root, her core''s quality is among the lowest of the True Dans. It will be nearly impossible for her to advance to the mid-Core Formation stage within the next hundred years.


    If Lan Chang''an''s core formation goes well, it''s highly likely that he and Fu Xuemei will be in the same minor realm in the future.Lan Chang''an is currently one hundred and twenty-nine years old, and estimates it will take another decade or so to reach thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    With this decision in mind, Lan Chang''an penned a letter and sent it to Huanglong Mountain.


    On the surface, the recipient was Fu Dong.


    In the letter, Lan Chang''an straightforwardly requested that the promise made years ago be fulfilled, asking Huanglong Mountain to help him purchase some alchemy materials.


    Among these were the main ingredients for the Xuanwu Pill, the Blood Yang Pill, and the Seven Fiend Pill.


    The Xuanwu Pill is a pill used for breaking through to thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    By refining this pill, Lan Chang''an¡¯s future advancement to thete Foundation Establishment stage would seem more reasonable.


    The Blood Yang Pill and the Seven Fiend Pill are temporary power-boosting pills.


    Lan Chang''an had taken the Blood Yang Pill before, and its side effects were rtively mild.


    The Seven Fiend Pill, however, is much more potent. When taken by a Foundation Establishment cultivator, it can double their magical power and significantly boost their overall strength by a small realm.


    However, the side effects are severe. After its effects wear off, the user will suffer a drastic loss of vitality, extreme weakness, and a shortening of their lifespan.


    In truth, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t short of spirit stones to buy these materials.


    But some of the rare ingredients, especially the primary ones for breakthrough pills, are difficult for ordinary cultivators to acquire.


    Essentially, Lan Chang''an was leveraging Huanglong Mountain¡¯s connections and influence to obtain these materials, saving himself a great deal of effort.


    "With the cultivation world entering a state of war and an uncertain future, it¡¯s better to use this favor now to strengthen myself. Otherwise, I might not get another chanceter."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t aim to maximize the benefit of this favor, such as having a Core Formation cultivator to take action on his behalf.


    He cultivated quietly, avoided making enemies, and didn¡¯t actively seek trouble, so he rarely needed such opportunities.


    Moreover, in a real emergency, there wouldn¡¯t be time to call for help.


    Another advantage of cashing in this favor was that Fu Xuemei and Huanglong Mountain would be more at ease with him.


    ...


    Rare materials were entrusted to Huanglong Mountain.


    As for othermon and less valuable materials, Lan Chang''an had the affiliated cultivators of Wuqi Mountain run errands, which wasn¡¯t difficult to arrange.


    Ye Fei, being a pharmacist, also had ess to relevant channels.


    Purchasing materials and refining pills yourself is far more cost-effective than buying finished pills directly since whenever a pill furnace is opened, it usually produces several pills of the same type at once.


    Half a monthter.


    Alchemist Lin¡¯s health was fully restored, and at Lan Chang''an¡¯s invitation, he came to Little Turtle Peak¡¯s cave mansion to help refine pills.


    Officially, they were refining cultivation pills, but in reality, they were secretly refining the Youth Retaining Pill.


    "These materials are well-preserved, with strong spiritual energy," Alchemist Linmented after his routine inspection of the ingredients for the Youth Retaining Pill, nodding in approval.


    Naturally, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mention that these materials had been more than just sealed. He had asionally infused them with Evergreen mana to maintain their vitality.


    Of course, not all alchemical materials fit together.


    The Youth Retaining Pill was biased towards the health-nourishing category, and its ingredients harmonized well with the Evergreen mana.


    Lan Chang''an himself was also a second-rank alchemist, with all the necessary tools like a pill furnace, spirit fire array, and alchemy room.


    Alchemist Lin allowed him to observe closely during the refining process, actively exining each step.


    The difficulty of refining the Youth Retaining Pill was not high.


    A few dayster, Alchemist Lin sessfully opened the furnace, producing four Youth Retaining Pills.


    "Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Lan. All four pills are genuine, standard quality," Alchemist Lin said, his face glowing with pride. This sess rate exceeded his expectations.


    "Alchemist Lin, your skills have indeed improved significantly, almost on par with a quasi-third-rank alchemist," Lan Chang''an was delighted, offering praise.


    The materials he provided could yield at most four pills, and he would have been satisfied with three.


    While the Youth Retaining Pill isn¡¯t highly valued in small regions, being just slightly more valuable than half a Foundation Establishment Pill, in areas where the cultivation culture was more developed, the Youth Retaining Pill was worth much more.


    In some cultivation regions, due to material restrictions, its value might not be much lower than that of a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, the quality of the materials you provided was the key factor. And refining the Youth Retaining Pill doesn¡¯t require particrly high cultivation," Alchemist Lin said modestly, though his expression dimmed as he recalled something.


    During the twenty-plus years of being forced to refine pills in captivity, Alchemist Lin¡¯s alchemy skills had indeed improved.


    But those years were something he wished to forget, and he preferred not to dwell on those memories.


    After sessfully refining the Youth Retaining Pill, Lan Chang''an immediately paid Alchemist Lin with a supreme-grade magical weapon aspensation for the pill refining.


    The next phase of pill refining would wait until Huanglong Mountain had gathered the necessary materials.


    ...


    That evening.


    In his secret room, Lan Chang''an swallowed a Youth Retaining Pill and closed his eyes to experience its effects.


    The medicinal power of the pill contained a mysterious life energy, full of youthful vitality.


    Additionally, there was a faint aura of the passage of time, though much weaker than that of a Life Extension Pill.


    Momentster, Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, revealing a hint of disappointment.


    "Taking the Youth Retaining Pill has almost no effect on increasing my Evergreen mana."


    "The pill¡¯s ability to preserve youth mainly affects the external appearance of the physical body, altering only certain characteristics of the internal organs. It doesn¡¯t add anything to the foundation of cultivation or the essence of life."


    The higher a cultivator¡¯s realm, the less they value such external appearances. Of course, there are still many cultivators who care about their looks, especially female cultivators.


    In some mythical records, even true female immortals are depicted as being extremely concerned with their beauty.


    "Those top-tier geniuses who progress rapidly in their cultivation don¡¯t rely much on the Youth Retaining Pill. For them, the speed of their aging appearance basically matches their realm advancements and lifespan enhancements."


    By taking a Youth Retaining Pill, Lan Chang''an merely added an extrayer of outward appearance. Compared to the genuine longevity and youthfulness provided by his Evergreen Technique, this pill fell short.


    "As for the remaining three Youth Retaining Pills..."


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment.


    When spirit stones weren¡¯t an issue, there was no need to sell these pills.


    Back then, Alchemist Hua wanted to refine this pill to establish connections with higher-ups. By holding onto this rare resource, Lan Chang''an might find an opportunity to use it in the future. After all, this pill was very popr with female cultivators.


    ...


    Another half month passed.


    Lan Chang''an received a letter from Huanglong Mountain.


    To his surprise, the letter was from Fu Xuemei.


    This was the first time in Lan Chang''an¡¯s life that he had received a letter from a True-Dan cultivator. Moreover, it was from a female True-Dan cultivator of exceptional beauty.


    This meant that Lan Chang''an''s social circle had made a qualitative breakthrough!


    From starting as a mere firstyer Qi-Refining cultivator and cultivating diligently for over a century, reaching this point was no easy feat.


    One must understand that the vast majority of cultivators never have the privilege of corresponding with a True-Dan Immortal in their lifetime.


    "Her handwriting is as elegant as she is..."


    Lan Chang''an opened the letter and couldn¡¯t help but admire Fu Xuemei¡¯s beautiful handwriting, which had a sense of solitary elegance and pride, like a winter plum blossom.


    However, the contents of the letter made Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyelids twitch.


    Fu Xuemei mentioned two things:


    First, the materials Lan Chang''an requested would soon be acquired with the help of Huanglong Mountain.


    Second, she asked when Lan Chang''an woulde to Huanglong Immortal City to collect the materials.


    Fu Xuemei intended to personally meet him and hand over the materials.


    "A dignified True-Dan Immortal, the current leader of Huanglong Mountain, why would you lower yourself to personally meet a mid-Foundation Establishment loose cultivator? Where has your pride gone?" Lan Chang''an felt a bit frustrated and caught off guard. He hadn¡¯t expected Fu Xuemei to be so "enthusiastic."


    If it weren¡¯t necessary, he didn¡¯t want to meet with a True-Dan cultivator in person, even if past grievances were set aside.


    "If I don¡¯t go to Huanglong Mountain, it might make me seem like I am hiding something."


    Lan Chang''an knew that if he went to meet Fu Xuemei openly and without any ulterior motives, there would be almost no risk. He might even earn the appreciation of a Core Formation cultivator.


    Fu Xuemei had been a Core Formation cultivator for nearly ten years. If she had intended to harm him, she wouldn¡¯t have waited until now. Nor would she have bothered inviting him so courteously.


    If there was truly a knot in her heart, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to sessfully form her Core back then.


    "Heh! My persona is that of someone who is cautious and prudent. It¡¯s only natural that I wouldn¡¯t dare meet with a True-Dan cultivator," Lan Chang''an thought with a lightugh after careful consideration, making up his mind.


    In his reply, Lan Chang''an politely expressed that the world outside was currently in turmoil, with robbers running rampant, and he didn¡¯t dare travel alone to Huanglong Immortal City.


    He suggested that Huanglong Mountain be kind enough to deliver the materials to Wuqi Mountain, offering to pay an additional ten percent as a delivery fee.


    After sending the reply, Lan Chang''an was puzzled as to why Fu Xuemei wanted to meet him personally.


    What was even more thought-provoking was that she had mentioned in her letter that she was giving him a heads-up, allowing him to mentally prepare.


    "Could it be that if I don¡¯t go to Huanglong Mountain, this woman wille to Wuqi Mountain herself?" Lan Chang''an considered the worst-case scenario, realizing that he had to be on guard.


    Although with Fu Xuemei''s temperament, she wouldn''t do such a thing as putting a hot face on a cold ass.[1]


    He mulled over the matter further.


    Lan Chang''an felt the powerful aura of the Nine Seal Stele from his second life as a peak Core Formation cultivator, and remembered the set of treasure talismans in his hands that had been nurtured for years, his heart was greatly determined.


    He assured himself that if he had to face someone like Fu Xuemei, who was in the early stages of Core Formation andcked deep foundations, he could at least escape if he was well-prepared.


    ...


    Over the next period, Lan Chang''an concealed his presence and cultivated underground at Little Turtle Peak.


    With the mountain and rocks providing cover,bined with the Evergreen Technique¡¯s aura-concealing abilities, even a Core Formation cultivator wouldn¡¯t be able to detect him immediately.


    A monthter.


    A high-level cultivator from Huanglong Mountain arrived to deliver the materials in person.


    The unexpected did not happen; Fu Xuemei, as the leader of Huanglong Mountain, did note to Wuqi Mountain herself.


    Instead, the visitor was an elegant, white-robed elderly man.


    "Ji Yifeng, Huanglong Immortal¡¯s eldest disciple," Lan Chang''an recognized the visitor after probing secretly.


    When Fu Xuemei formed her Core, Ji Yifeng had arrived at a critical moment. Lan Chang''an, disguised as Junior Brother Cheng, had once crossed paths with him.


    Ji Yifeng, with a smile on his face, waited outside Little Turtle Peak, asking his maid to announce his arrival.


    As a Fake-Dan Immortal, he was warm and courteous, not using his spiritual sense to casually probe around.


    Lan Chang''an quickly returned to the cave mansion at Little Turtle Peak via an underground tunnel.


    Just in time, he met Lan Rou, the maid, who had hurried over to report.


    "Master! An Immortal from Huanglong Mountain, Senior Ji, is visiting in person¡­"


    "No need to be nervous. Huanglong Mountain and I have a good rtionship," Lan Chang''an reassured her with a smile.


    He walked out of the cave mansion to greet the first ever Immortal to visit Little Turtle Peak.


    "Loose cultivator Lan Chang''an of Wuqi Mountain greets Senior Ji," Lan Chang''an said, cupping his hands in salute.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, there''s no need to be polite. I¡¯ve heard of your reputation, and seeing you today, you really do have an extraordinary temperament and elegance," Ji Yifeng said, stroking his beard with a smile, his gaze showing admiration as he sized up the gentle and serene white-robed man before him.


    [1] Basically means a situation where someone would go out of their way to be friendly or attentive to someone who wouldn''t reciprocate or appreciate it. Kept the literal version because funny :)

 Chapter 181: Being Honest

    Chapter 181: Being Honest


    Inside the cave mansion at Little Turtle Peak, Ji Yifeng conversed with Lan Chang''an, never assuming the airs of an Immortal.


    Even during his time at Huanglong Immortal City, Lan Chang''an had heard of Ji Yifeng¡¯s reputation¡ªan individual known for his kindness, who forged strong rtionships and attracted many talents to Huanglong Mountain.


    As the eldest disciple of Huanglong Immortal, Ji Yifeng was well-regarded by those outside Huanglong Mountain, and known as an Immortal of high character.


    Within just a quarter of an hour of conversation, Lan Chang''an felt an unexpected sense of simrity.


    He began to understand why Huanglong Immortal had focused on nurturing Ji Yifeng instead of someone like He Yuanwu.


    Ji Yifeng¡¯s personal charm was something that He Yuanwu could never match.


    "Little friend Lan, these are the materials that my junior sister has asked me to deliver to you," Ji Yifeng said, getting straight to the point as he handed over a storage pouch.


    "Thank you, Senior Ji, for personally making a trip to deliver these," Lan Chang''an said, carefully checking the contents of the storage pouch to confirm that everything was in order.He had intended to pay an additional ten percent as a delivery fee, but Ji Yifeng had declined. In the end, the cost of the materials was even lower than the market price.


    In essence, Huanglong Mountain helped Lan Chang''an acquire these materials at cost through itsmercial channels, without any additional charge.


    If Lan Chang''an had attempted to gather these materials on his own, it might have taken him decades toplete the task.


    "In fact, my junior sister sincerely wishes to meet little friend Lan in person, to fulfill a certain wish," Ji Yifeng said with a meaningful smile.


    "There''s always tomorrow. I¡¯m sure there will be another opportunity for me to meet Lady Fu again in the future," Lan Chang''an did not outright refuse.


    As he reflected, he realized that thest time he, as Lan Chang''an, had spoken face-to-face with Fu Xuemei was before he reached Foundation Establishment.


    That had been five or six decades ago.


    If and when he eventually reached the Core Formation Realm, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t mind meeting Fu Xuemei again.


    If that day really came, he wondered what it would be like.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you live a carefree life here on Wuqi Mountian, raising turtles and tending to your garden¡ªan existence that anyone would envy. But a life of contentment can also lead tocency, causing a cultivator to lose their drive."


    "Moreover, the cultivation world is on the brink of chaos. Have you not considered joining a particr faction?" Ji Yifeng smoothly shifted the conversation to the second purpose of his visit.


    "A particr faction, such as Huanglong Mountain?" Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes shed with understanding.


    "Haha! I appreciate your candor, little friend Lan," Ji Yifeng said with a heartyugh, stroking his beard.


    "Huanglong Mountain wees talent, especially individuals like yourself who are reliable ande from a clean background. Moreover, Fellow Daoist Lan, you built your foundation in Huanglong Immortal City, making it seem that our destinies are intertwined¡­"


    Ji Yifeng not only appealed to emotions but also promised generous terms.


    "Forgive me for disappointing you, Senior Ji, but I¡¯ve grown too ustomed to my free-spirited lifestyle. I have no ns to join any faction at this time," Lan Chang''an said after a moment of consideration, declining the offer.


    If the cultivation world truly descended into chaos, someone like Lan Chang''an, who possessed valuable skills, might indeed consider finding shelter under the wing of a major sect. However, Huanglong Mountain was far from an ideal choice.


    Huanglong Immortal was nearing the end of his life. Once this mid-Core Formation cultivator passed away, Huanglong Mountain¡¯s prestige and influence would likely plummet.


    At that point, there would be power struggles and possibly a reshuffling of the core leadership at Huanglong Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an had no desire to be entangled in such conflicts.


    "Should you ever change your mind, Huanglong Mountain¡¯s doors will always be open to you," Ji Yifeng said, unfazed by the rejection and without pressing the matter further.


    After half an hour of pleasant conversation, Ji Yifeng, Huanglong Mountain¡¯s most senior Fake-Dan Immortal, took his leave.


    Naturally, this scene did not go unnoticed by the other two main peaks of Wuqi Mountian, as well as the numerous loose cultivators affiliated with the mountain.


    Although the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountian had received invitations from various factions before, it was a rare urrence for someone like Ji Yifeng, a Fake-Dan Immortal, to visit in person.


    ...


    A few dayster, Alchemist Lin Ye returned to Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave mansion at Little Turtle Peak to refine more pills.


    This time, Lin Ye stayed at Little Turtle Peak for over a month.


    With a sufficient supply of materials, Lin Ye sessfully refined the "Xuanwu Pill," the "Blood Yang Pill," and the "Seven Fiend Pill."


    The Xuanwu Pill, a top-grade second-rank pill used for breaking through to thete Foundation Establishment stage, yielded two pills.


    Due to Lin Ye¡¯s limited cultivation, his performance wasn¡¯t perfect, and he failed to achieve the expected three pills.


    Five Blood Yang Pills were produced.


    Four Seven Fiend Pills were also sessfully refined.


    In addition, Lin Ye also refined several other high-quality second-rank pills for Lan Chang''an, including those for healing, energy recovery, and detoxification.


    "Here is your payment, Fellow Daoist Lin," Lan Chang''an said, presenting Lin Ye with another supreme-grade magical weapon and a dozen mid to superior-grade second-rank talismans.


    For the two rounds of pill refining, Lan Chang''an had been somewhat generous in hispensation, offering more than what was typically expected.


    Part of this was out of respect for their past rtionship, but it was also because Lin Ye had allowed him to observe the pill-refining process and provided exnations.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I must thank you for your hospitality since I returned to Wuqi Mountian. This second-rank alchemist¡¯s inheritance is a token of my gratitude," Lin Ye said, handing over a jade slip.


    Having spent several months recuperating at Wuqi Mountian and now equipped with aplete set of protective means, Lin Ye was ready to leave the mountain.


    After Lin Ye departed, Lan Chang''an examined the jade slip with his spiritual sense and nodded slightly.


    It contained a superior-grade second-rank alchemy inheritance. While it didn¡¯t include any core techniques, it was a solid, well-rounded guide.


    Though the inheritance didn¡¯t reveal Lin Ye¡¯s most closely guarded secrets, it was still a rare opportunity for anyone aspiring to alchemy.


    Considering this inheritance, Lin Ye had given more than he had received from Lan Chang''an, making the exchange more than fair.


    Two dayster.


    Alchemist Lin Ye left Wuqi Mountian, with each of the three peak masters giving him a small token of their appreciation.


    As they bid farewell, Lin Ye took a deep breath and shared his life¡¯s greatest aspiration:


    He intended to devote the rest of his life to nurturing an outstanding sessor in the Dao of alchemy.


    "Lin Ye¡¯s true alchemy skills may have reached the level of a quasi-third-rank alchemist. The fact that only two Xuanwu Pills were produced might have been his way of holding back¡­" Lan Chang''an pondered as he watched the elderly figure of Lin Ye gradually disappear into the distance, feeling a twinge of uncertainty.


    ...


    More than half a yearter.


    Inside an elegantly scented chamber in a cave at Xiao Pan Peak, Lan Chang''an sat up, feeling refreshed. His hand rested on Shi Manrong¡¯s smooth, jade-like back.


    Beneath the disheveled silk nket woven from ice silkworm threads, her soft and voluptuous bodyy bare, her curves and long, slender legs faintly visible¡ªa sight that evoked boundless imagination.


    "Lan Lang, we¡¯ve been so open and honest with each other, yet you still have so many secrets you¡¯ve kept from me?" Shi Manrong said, her face glowing with a blush, her hair cascading like a waterfall as she rested her head on Lan Chang''an¡¯s waist.


    "What do you mean by that? Our rtionship runs deep. If you¡¯re unhappy about something, there¡¯s no need to keep it to yourself," Lan Chang''an said with a smile, looking at the slightly pouting and resentful female formation master.


    By now, rumors of their possible rtionship had quietly spread within certain circles at Wuqi Mountian.


    However, neither of them acknowledged the rtionship publicly, nor did they have any intention of bing dual cultivation partners.


    "You¡¯ve kept many things hidden from me," Shi Manrong said in a soft, sultry voice tinged with theziness of a mature woman.


    "For example, you kept the ¡®Youth Retaining Pill¡¯ to yourself and didn¡¯t share it with me."


    "Huh? You figured that out?" Lan Chang''an feigned surprise.


    During the process of absorbing the Youth Retaining Pill¡¯s effects, he had unintentionally¡ªor perhaps intentionally¡ªlet the effects show.


    Ye Fei, being well-versed in pharmacology, must have noticed it, but had chosen not to mention it.


    "Humph! I¡¯ve been maintaining my appearance for years and have taken a Youth Retaining Pill before. How could I not recognize the effects?" Shi Manrong said as she also sat up, using only the thin silk nket to cover her fair, rosy body.


    "It¡¯s not that I intentionally kept it from you. This involves some of Alchemist Lin¡¯s private matters¡­" Lan Chang''an exined with a wry smile, offering an excuse.


    "So, it was Alchemist Lin who helped you refine the Youth Retaining Pill. Ye Fei doesn''t have experience refining this pill yet," Shi Manrong said, pursing her lips with a light smile as she spread out her delicate hand.


    "Didn¡¯t you say you¡¯ve already taken a Youth Retaining Pill?"


    "A second-rank Youth Retaining Pill only maintains its best effects for about a hundred years, after which its effects begin to wane," Shi Manrong said with a bright smile.


    After all, the Youth Retaining Pill cannot alter the essence of life; it only maintains a superficial youthful appearance.


    No matter how powerful a second-rank pill is, its effects cannotst for hundreds or thousands of years.


    With a sigh, Lan Chang''an retrieved a Youth Retaining Pill and handed it to Shi Manrong.


    Shi Manrong, with a rare expression of joy, her eyes sparkling, immediately took the pill.


    "Based on this, I suspect you¡¯ve kept secrets from me about the ancient ruin as well," Shi Manrong said as she got up, dressed in her robes, and tied up her hair, returning to her dignified and graceful demeanor as she looked at Lan Chang''an with a knowing smile.


    "At this point, there¡¯s no need to hide anything from you, Fairy Shi," Lan Chang''an said, straightening his clothes as he returned to a more formal tone, stepping away from their ndestine rtionship.


    He then recounted in detail the events leading up to Shi Manrong¡¯s memory loss.


    Given the rtionship they now shared, revealing this long-kept secret felt like a matter of course.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t know much about the specifics of the ancient ruin, but Shi Manrong listened intently, her expression thoughtful.


    "I won¡¯t hide it from you either, Fellow Daoist Lan. Due to my memory loss, I¡¯ve been searching for the location of that ancient ruin for years, and I¡¯ve only managed to find a few clues," Shi Manrong said, a hint of frustration in her voice.


    She then suggested, "Since you know about this, why don¡¯t we work together to find it?"


    Lan Chang''an shook his head. "Unlike you, Fairy Shi, who is already at the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, I¡¯m still uncertain whether I can even reach thete Foundation Establishment stage. Let¡¯s not discuss this matter for now."


    In truth, the "Yin Yang Water" and "Xuanmu Vine" within the ancient ruin were of great interest to Lan Chang''an.


    Yin Yang Water could improve the quality of the core by shattering and reshaping it.


    Xuanmu Vine was an exceptional heaven and earth spiritual treasure for crafting a wood-based life-bound magical treasure.


    "But I believe that you will sessfully advance to thete Foundation Establishment stage, Fellow Daoist Lan," Shi Manrong said, her clear eyes gazing at him. Whether she was testing him or genuinely confident in him was unclear.


    "Let¡¯s hope so," Lan Chang''an replied nomittally, ncing at her, he tested the waters, "If Fairy Shi achieves the skill of a third-rank formation master and I¡¯m fortunate enough to advance to thete Foundation Establishment stage, then we can discuss this matter."


    "Due to the limitations of my cultivation, reaching the level of a quasi-third-rank formation master is already my limit. Most third-rank formation masters are at least Fake-Dan Immortals," Shi Manrong sighed, iming difficulty.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t tell if she was being truthful, even though their rtionship was deep to the point where they were familiar with every inch of each other.


    However, today¡¯s candid discussion had brought them closer,ying the groundwork for future coboration.


    "Here¡¯s the payment for the Youth Retaining Pill," Shi Manrong said, handing Lan Chang''an a brocade pouch filled with spirit stones before leaving.


    Their ideas aligned, and they had mutual feelings of goodwill. What began as a fleeting romance had developed into a way to ease the loneliness of their cultivation paths.


    Shi Manrong never felt like she suffered a loss.


    In their transactions, they kept their personal feelings separate, offering each other discounts at most.


    ...


    Three monthster.


    Lan Chang''an turned one hundred and thirty years old.


    It had been four years since he had reached the sixth level of Foundation Establishment. He estimated it would take another ten years or so to reach the seventh level and be a cultivator at thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    On this day, the Earth Burrowing Rat delivered a letter from Jin Yun Valley to his cave mansion.


    The letter was from Zhao Siyao¡¯s disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er.


    Before setting out, Zhao Siyao instructed that any news from the frontlines be sent to him through her disciple.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er was at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, with excellent talent, a lively temperament, and a wide range of friends in the sect, so she was well-informed.


    "It¡¯s been nearly two years since the second wave of Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects set out. I wonder how Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan are faring on the battlefield in the neighboring country," Lan Chang''an thought with a solemn expression as he opened the letter.


    ...

 Chapter 182: The Parting of Lovebirds

    Chapter 182: The Parting of Lovebirds


    The news from the neighboring country¡¯s battlefield reached Jin Yun Valley and waster conveyed to Wuqi Mountain, with at least half a year''s dy in between.


    Being able to receive this letter meant that at that time, Zhao Siyao''s life was not in danger.


    The letter detailed Zhao Siyao''s experiences after over a year on the Feng Kingdom battlefield.


    Zhao Siyao was responsible for logistics defense, and during this time, she experienced a small-scale skirmish, which she narrowly escaped without harm.


    The letter downyed the situation. However, Lan Chang''an understood that in reality, life-and-death battles, casualties, and the harshness of the situation were inevitable.


    Nevertheless, being in thete Foundation Establishment stage, herbat ability far surpassed those in the early and middle stages, giving her a slightly higher chance of survival.


    The letter also mentioned Zhang Tieshan.


    Zhang Tieshan fought on the frontline, repeatedly making significant contributions, gaining some fame, and once even escaping the pursuit of a Fake-Dan cultivator.As for Lin Lu, who had been trapped on the Feng Kingdom battlefield two years ago, there was still no trace of him.


    Zhao Siyao spected that he was either dead, his body lost, or he had been captured by the enemy, put under a restriction, and forced to work in dangerous ces like underground mines, forbidden zones, or danger zones.


    "By now, it''s been three or four years since the sects of Liang Kingdom went to war. After the initial rapid progress, the advancement has been gentle going forward, and can only be described as profitable."


    "In the past three years, there have been no twists and turns, as calm as a dead pond."


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly, feeling a vague sense of unease.


    This unease stemmed from his experiences in his past two lives.


    Sometimes, apparent calmness did not mean true stability.


    The cultivation world of the Feng Kingdom had deep foundations. Facing the Liang Kingdom, a weaker nation taking advantage of the situation, Feng Kingdom had notunched a strong counterattack.


    At the end of the letter, Zhao Tan¡¯er expressed her "hateful" sentiment, provocatively suggesting:


    "O Uncle Lan, one can be a turtle for a time, but not for a lifetime."


    "If I were you, I would courageously follow my master to the frontline battlefield, fighting side by side, living and dying together, leaving no regrets in this life. In this way, you can also win a ray of hope for yourself to achieve Core Formation."


    Lan Chang''an chuckled silently and put the letter away.


    He replied to Zhao Tan¡¯er, iming that he was unworthy of Fairy Zhao and had no desire to be a burden on the frontlines.


    At least, to outsiders, this seemed like self-awareness.


    "Jin Yun Valley''s information channels are rather limited, not reaching the true upper echelons." Lan Chang''an pondered.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    He left Wuqi Mountain, flying south for most of the day, arriving at aw enforcement outpost of the me Departing Pce.


    Song Wenshu was the deputy head of this outpost. The head was a Fake-Dan cultivator who rarely managed specific matters and was generally not present.


    Song Wenshu''s background was not bad, he held the real power to manage the surrounding area.


    In a stone hall within the me Departing Pce outpost, Song Wenshu personally received Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an came to visit, bringing a small gift.


    This was not his first visit; after the Night Fisherman incident, their rtionship had grown closer.


    Song Wenshu had no idea that the killer of Senior Brother Zhuo was so close.


    The difference in their status and rank in the cultivation world created a natural barrier. Normally, they belonged to different circles and would have difficulty interacting.


    The reason they could have a rtionship was not just due to Lan Chang''an''s skill as a talisman master and his considerable strength.


    Being able to converse well and keep up with broader perspectives was also an important reason. Otherwise, differing levels of understanding would quickly reveal one''s inferiority.


    After chatting for a while, Lan Chang''an steered the conversation toward the battlefield in the neighboring country.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, someone as carefree as you actually cares about the situation on the frontline?" Song Wenshu said with surprise.


    "I have two Foundation Establishment friends with whom I''ve had ties for over a hundred years in Jin Yun Valley, and they are now on the battlefield, with little news..." Lan Chang''an gave the prepared response and sighed.


    me Departing Pce, being the only Nascent Soul-level force in Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, was definitely the leading force in this war.


    One of Song Wenshu''s elders was a high-ranking member of me Departing Pce, and perhaps he knew some more ssified information.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, there''s no need to worry. On the frontline, our side has always held the advantage, and our casualties are lower than those of Feng Kingdom." Song Wenshu said confidently.


    "Moreover, our Liang Kingdom sects don''t insist on upying enemy territory. The focus is on plundering resources, including scarce strategic resources and cultivation inheritance, and so on."


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an understood Liang Kingdom''s sects'' intentions in this war.


    upying enemy territory requires guarding and management, whiches at a great cost. Plundering for short-term benefits to enhance the nation''s heritage was the main goal. Only when conditions allowed, they would upy some of the spiritual vein resources.


    "Could I be overthinking this?"


    Lan Chang''an understood that if the goal of the war was solely plundering, it would typically notst more than ten years.


    ...


    While the two were conversing, a cold voice came from outside, faintly prating the barrier.


    "Song Wenshu! Do you dare toe out and talk?"


    "A Foundation Establishment great realm cultivator of me Departing Pce, are you afraid of the challenge of Jiang, a mere loose cultivator?"


    Lan Chang''an found that the voice sounded somewhat familiar.


    "Senior Brother Song, Jiang Yechen is here again."


    Aw enforcement cultivator in the Foundation Establishment stage quickly walked in, asking Song Wenshu how to handle the situation.


    "Let him be."


    Song Wenshu''s face showed a hint of difort as he waved his hand.


    "Apologies for the disturbance, Fellow Daoist Lan."


    Song Wenshu said apologetically, setting up an additionalyer of soundproofing.


    "Jiang Yechen? Does Fellow Daoist Song have a grudge against him?" Lan Chang''an asked in surprise.


    Jiang Yechen came from one of the seven great families, the Jiang Family, but was expelled.


    This person had extraordinary talent and was also an alchemist who had oncepeted for the position of peak master at Wuqi Mountain.


    He was in a rtionship with Shen Bixin, the daughter of the Tengxing Merchant Association.


    "It''s just a small misunderstanding."


    Song Wenshu smiled bitterly and exined:


    "Miss Shen and I hit it off at first sight, and with the blessings of both families, we were engaged. However, that Fellow Daoist Jiang believes I have stolen his beloved by underhanded means."


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an was taken aback.


    Years ago, he had heard that Shen Bixin''s family opposed her being with Jiang Yechen.


    Jiang Yechen and Shen Bixin had deep feelings for each other. At that time, Jiang Yechen had risked his life to protect Shen Bixin and sent her to Wuqi Mountain for treatment.


    Unexpectedly, yearster, Shen Bixin ended up engaged to Song Wenshu.


    "If Fellow Daoist Song walks the walk and marries her openly, there''s no need to worry about this matter."


    Lan Chang''an didn''t know the full details and couldn''t judge who was right or wrong.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, if you know Fellow Daoist Jiang, please try to persuade him. For the sake of my fianc¨¦e, I''ve refrained from confronting him." Song Wenshu''s tone turned slightly serious as he spoke.


    "Certainly." Lan Chang''an responded perfunctorily.


    That Jiang Yechen was not a simple person, and Lan Chang''an had no intention of getting involved in this matter.


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an left the me Departing Pce outpost.


    After flying for several hundred li, he heard the sound of something breaking through the air. Ate-stage Foundation Establishment light shed quickly and intercepted his path.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang, what is this about?"


    Lan Chang''an asked in confusion, looking at the handsome, sharp-featured man in a purple robe before him.


    "Lan Chang''an, I once thought you were a reclusive loose cultivator who kept yourself pure. I didn''t expect you to be in thepany of a despicable person like Song Wenshu." Jiang Yechen''s eyes gleamed with cold light as he berated Lan Chang''an.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang, watch your words! My rtionship with Fellow Daoist Song is purely normal; I don''t understand what you''re insinuating."


    Lan Chang''an''s expression darkened as he said in a deep voice.


    Jiang Yechen released a powerful spiritual pressure, his face icy, as he stared intently at Lan Chang''an, seemingly trying to detect any ws.


    If Lan Chang''an showed any sign of guilt, Jiang Yechen seemed ready to act.


    "Song Wenshu used despicable means to separate me from Bixin, eventually leveraging his me Departing Pce background to secure an engagement with her..."


    Jiang Yechen''s eyes reddened, and his icy voice was filled with anger.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang, do you have any solid evidence for what you''re saying?"


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Jiang Yechen''s emotions were unstable.


    After all, the woman he had loved for decades was now someone else''s fianc¨¦e. It was impossible for any normal man to remain indifferent.


    It was only because Song Wenshu had a strong background and considerable strength that Jiang Yechen hadn''t already killed him. After all, Jiang Yechen was rumored to have killed his adoptive mother and crippled his biological father''s cultivation.


    "Though I have no solid evidence, I can tell from various clues that Song Wenshu has ill intentions. More importantly, I''m certain he doesn''t truly love Bixin." Jiang Yechen said with conviction.


    "Hmm, Fellow Daoist Jiang may have a point." Lan Chang''an outwardly agreed.


    Jiang Yechen''s plight might be sympathetic, but it was still his side of the story, much of it based on subjective assumptions.


    From past rumors, this person''s temperament was prone to extremes.


    "I have other matters to attend to..."


    Lan Chang''an had no interest in getting entangled and rose to leave.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, please wait. I have a favor to ask."


    Jiang Yechen reached out to stop Lan Chang''an.


    Whoosh! Boom!


    The powerful mana of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator stirred up a vortex of flying sand and wind, blocked by Lan Chang''an''s protective barrier.


    Jiang Yechen''s deep magic power was no less than Song Wenshu''s.


    Lan Chang''an frowned, "Fellow Daoist Jiang, what do you need?"


    Had it not been for their past acquaintance, Jiang Yechen''s rash and rude behavior could have been seen as the acts of a rogue cultivator, justifying a "self-defense" response.


    "I hope Fellow Daoist Lan and Fairy Shi can mediate and arrange for Bixin to meet me, so we can clear up any misunderstandings..." Jiang Yechen bowed and pleaded.


    Lan Chang''an inwardly scoffed: Shen Bixin doesn''t even want to see you, what¡¯s there to rify?


    "What if I refuse?" Lan Chang''an asked calmly.


    Jiang Yechen straightened up, his deep, starry eyes sizing up Lan Chang''an with confidence as he said:


    "Fellow Daoist Lan will agree!"

 Chapter 183: The Beauty Who Brings Trouble

    Chapter 183: The Beauty Who Brings Trouble


    "I refuse," Lan Chang''an stated firmly.


    He didn''t know where Jiang Yechen''s confidence came from, but that didn''t hinder his decision.


    "If Fellow Daoist Jiang thinks I''m easy to bully, you can certainly try."


    Jiang Yechen wasn''t someone with a mild temperament, and Lan Chang''an was already prepared to fight if necessary.


    There was no need to use excessive means. With the Earth Burrowing Rat as the main force and the support of his puppets, he could deal with this person.


    A sh of surprise crossed Jiang Yechen''s eyes. He hadn''t expected Lan Chang''an to be so resolute, refusing to give face to ate-stage Foundation Establishment great cultivator like himself.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan misunderstood! Years ago, Wuqi Mountain saved Bixin''s life; how could I possibly use force against you?"


    Jiang Yechen''s expression softened, his refined and deep features giving way to a confident smile.Lan Chang''an remained nomittal, letting out a cold snort as he condensed light beneath his feet, bypassing Jiang Yechen.


    Jiang Yechen didn''t stop him. As he watched Lan Chang''an''s retreating figure, he sent a voice transmission:


    "I''ve heard that Fairy Shi suffered a sea of consciousness injury in her early years, leading to memory loss. Coincidentally, I possess a unique method that might help her recover those memories."


    "A method to restore memories?"


    Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred.


    As early as when Jiang Yechen first came to Wuqi Mountain topete for the peak master position, Lan Chang''an had noticed that this person was extraordinary.


    On Jiang Yechen''s body, there was a soul dao artifact, likely geared towards support and defense.


    It was said that direct disciples of major sects often carried soul-type treasures on their bodies to protect them.


    Ordinary soul artifacts were rare, but not necessarily considered great fortunes. However, if it could assist in restoring memory to the sea of consciousness, its value was far from ordinary.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang might assume a deep rtionship between me and Fairy Shi, the truth is that we are not Daopanions, so I can''t make decisions on her behalf." Lan Chang''an paused, his tone bing slightly more moderate.


    Jiang Yechen probably thought his rtionship with Fairy Shi was profound, which gave him such confidence.


    In reality, Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi had a more personal connection, one that didn''t interfere with each other''s cultivation paths.


    This kind of rtionship allowed both to remain free and unrestrained.


    "Oh? Then could Fellow Daoist Lan help convey this to Fairy Shi?" Jiang Yechen asked thoughtfully.


    "That won''t be an issue."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, bidding Jiang Yechen farewell without any conflict.


    "Lan Chang''an, despite his average qualifications, has steadily advanced to the mid-Foundation Establishment stage over more than a century, all while remaining undisturbed by the world. He is not to be underestimated."


    Jiang Yechen murmured to himself as he watched the departing figure d in white.


    ...


    The next evening.


    In the cave-dwelling on Xiao Pan Peak of Wuqi Mountain.


    The bath was filled with rising steam.


    Lan Chang''an embraced Fairy Shi from behind. His eyes fell on her jade-like, smooth back, adorned by beautifully curved lines, and the waterfall of ck hair that obscured half of her dignified, rosy face.


    "Yesterday, after meeting with Song Wenshu, I encountered Jiang Yechen..."


    After the rain of passion had passed, Lan Chang''an helped Fairy Shi up, gently resting his head against her cheek, and whispered softly into her ear.


    "Miss Shen is engaged to Song Wenshu?"


    "Restore my memories? Jiang Yechen has such a method? Is it reliable?"


    Fairy Shi turned her body slightly, her waterden eyes showing a hint of surprise.


    After changing into her dress, Lan Chang''an shared more details with her, including his own spections.


    "Miss Shen and Jiang Yechen are truly in love. However, as a daughter of a prominent merchant family, she has little say in her marriage." Shi Manrong sighed.


    A few dayster.


    Jiang Yechen visited Wuqi Mountain for a private discussion with Shi Manrong.


    Lan Chang''an had no desire to get involved and declined Fairy Shi''s invitation to join them.


    Half an hourter, Jiang Yechen left with a nk expression.


    Shi Manrong took the initiative to approach Lan Chang''an and recounted the contents of the conversation.


    "Jiang Yechen said that restoring my memory would deplete the spiritual essence of the treasure in his possession, something that can''t be measured in spirit stones. If I could help him meet with Shen Bixin, he wouldn''t charge me anything.


    "Even if the matchmaking doesn''t work out, he would still be willing to help, but I''d need to offer additionalpensation.


    "Moreover, for the memory restoration, I''d need to partially open my sea of consciousness to Jiang Yechen."


    Shi Manrong expressed her concerns.


    Lan Chang''an understood that Shi Manrong didn''t fully trust Jiang Yechen.


    Just based on the fact that this person had killed his adoptive mother and ruined his own father''s cultivation when he was young, he was by no means a benevolent person.


    To open one''s sea of consciousness and allow another to conduct restoration was a risky venture.


    It wasn''t just Jiang Yechen, even Lan Chang''an, who shared the same bed as Shi Manrong, couldn''t be trustedpletely in such a situation.


    "If I can''t recover my memories, I''ll be missing crucial information about that ancient ruin." Shi Manrong frowned, troubled.


    "If we can make Jiang Yechen owe a promise, there''s no rush to use it right away. Manrong, you¡¯ve just entered the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, and I have yet to advance to thete Foundation Establishment stage yet." Lan Chang''an responded calmly.


    "Chang''an, it''s still you who has aposed mind."


    Shi Manrong smiled warmly, deciding to follow Lan Chang''an''s advice.


    Little did she know that Lan Chang''an had already acquired a Crystal Condensation Pill and spiritual items for Core Formation, giving him confidence in achieving True Dan.


    The opportunities within the ancient ruin were indeed tempting, allowing Lan Chang''an to achieve a higher quality of core and obtain an excellent lifebound treasure.


    However, the risks associated with this opportunity made it not absolutely necessary.


    Shi Manrong continued, "If the timees when I do need to restore my memories, I hope you will be there to assist in protecting me."


    "Oh? You trust me that much? Not afraid that I''ll team up with Jiang Yichen and sell you out?" Lan Chang''an teased.


    "I trust you." Shi Manrong smiled charmingly, exuding a captivating allure.


    "Besides, in this vast cultivation world, there''s no one with whom I share a deeper bond than you."


    ...


    The next day, Shi Manrong left Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that she had likely gone to seek out Shen Bixin at Jiang Yechen''s request to help build a bridge between them.


    Shi Manrong had a personal connection with Shen Bixin and also had some business dealings with her merchant association.


    A monthter.


    Shi Manrong returned to Wuqi Mountain, her expression calm, revealing nothing about whether she had seeded or not.


    Not long after her return, a man and a woman, bothte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, visited Wuqi Mountain together.


    The female cultivator was dressed in a green gauze dress, with a delicate face and beautiful eyebrows, a sight to behold. However, there was a slight weariness in her features.


    The male cultivator apanying her was not Jiang Yechen, but a refined man in a green robe.


    "Fellow Daoist Song."


    "Miss Shen."


    The three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain came out to greet them.


    Ye Fei was momentarily lost as he gazed at the graceful and tranquil figure walking side by side with Song Wenshu.


    "Fellow Daoist Song and Miss Shen have fallen for each other and are now engaged. Miss Shen has ties to Wuqi Mountain, so we thought it appropriate to visit and catch up with our three Daoist friends."


    Song Wenshu beamed, looking genuinely happy as he put his arm around Shen Bixin''s slender waist.


    Shen Bixin''s body stiffened slightly, but she did not resist. She turned to Lan Chang''an and the other two with a polite smile and bowed gracefully.


    The group then settled in the cave dwelling on Xiao Pan Peak.


    "Fairy Shi, Fellow Daoist Lan, don''t believe the rumors outside. Miss Shen''s presence here as my fianc¨¦e should dispel any nder." During the conversation, Song Wenshu casually mentioned this.


    Lan Chang''an exchanged a nce with Shi Manrong.


    Song Wenshu''s words carried two meanings.


    First, to clear his name.


    Second, to subtly warn Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong not to help Jiang Yechen in sabotaging his marriage to Shen Bixin.


    "Hehe, the two of you make a fine couple, worthy of celebration. When do you n to hold the wedding? Please let us know so we can attend." Lan Chang''an congratted them in advance.


    He had no intention of getting involved in the matters between Song Wenshu, Jiang Yechen, and Shen Bixin.


    However, it was likely that Song Wenshu already knew that Shi Manrong helped Jiang Yechen.


    "Perhaps in the next few years. When the timees, I''ll send invitations to the three of you." Song Wenshu replied.


    Shen Bixin remained silent.


    When she heard Lan Chang''an''s congrattions, her calm eyes lingered on the face of this turtle talisman master for a moment.


    Lan Chang''an met her gaze with a serene expression.


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an and Shen Bixin had maintained some connection, but it was not deep, limited mostly to business dealings.


    Their only real close contact was still when Shen Bixin, gravely injured, hade to Wuqi Mountain, and Lan Chang''an had assisted Ye Fei in treating her.


    ...


    Song Wenshu and Shen Bixin stayed for about an hour before leaving together, seemingly a well-matched couple.


    In reality, considering Shen Bixin''s background, it was more or less a step up for her.


    Ye Fei watched the departing figure of Shen Bixin, feeling a tinge of mncholy.


    Lan Chang''an could tell that Ye Fei had some feelings for Shen Bixin.


    In the past, whenever Shen Bixin visited Wuqi Mountain, Ye Fei had always warmly weed and seen her off.


    In terms of appearance, Shen Bixin was more beautiful than Shi Manrong, with an outstanding temperament. Moreover, she was a ¡°rich woman¡±, which added to her charm.


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t have attracted Jiang Yechen, Song Wenshu, and Ye Fei, three great Foundation Establishment male cultivators.


    "Beauty is indeed the bearer of trouble..."


    Lan Chang''an mused to himself, having no interest in getting involved with such entangled, stunning female cultivators, especially when it came with so much responsibility.


    He had a feeling that even if Song Wenshu managed to outmaneuver Jiang Yechen and marry Shen Bixin, the matter might not be fully resolved.


    "Hmm? This spiritual sense... at least from a Fake-Dan Immortal..." Suddenly, Lan Chang''an noticed something.


    A moment ago, the spiritual sense of a Fake-Dan Immortal had discreetly swept past the edge of Wuqi Mountain.


    The owner of that spiritual sense had no interest in Lan Chang''an and hadn''t lingered on him, which is why he hadn''t noticed it immediately.


    ...


    "That brat, Jiang Yechen, is sensible enough to know to tuck his tail between his legs."


    In the forest outside Wuqi Mountain, a thin man wearing a straw hat squinted his eyes, a cold glint shing within them.


    Swish!


    The Fake-Dan cultivator''s figure blurred and vanished from the forest, silently trailing after Song Wenshu and Shen Bixin.


    If Jiang Yechen had dared to make a move against Song Wenshu, it would have meant certain death.


    This was Song Wenshu''s hidden purpose for visiting Wuqi Mountain this time.


    ...

 Chapter 184: A Change in the War

    Chapter 184: A Change in the War


    More than half a yearter, on Little Turtle Peak.


    "So, it''s finallye to this."


    Lan Chang''an murmured to himself as he put away a letter, his gaze drifting southward of Wuqi Mountain.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat scratched the back of its head, its eyes rolling curiously as it looked at its master in confusion.


    Not far away, the Profound Water Turtle, which had grown to a width of eighteen feet,zily sprawled by the lotus-filled pond, staring off into the distance. It maintained this habit for over twenty years, day in and day out, always gazing in the same direction.


    The Profound Water Turtle was still far from maturity.


    It was unaware that the female human cultivator it had once been closest to was nearing a hundred years old and had already stepped into her twilight years....


    Half a monthter.


    A young man in early Foundation Establishment, d in martial attire, flew toward Little Turtle Peak on a streak of light.


    "Junior Li Congren greets Grandpa Lan."


    The young man smiled, performing a respectful but not obsequious salute.


    "Congren ah,e in and have a seat."


    Lan Chang''an sitting in the pavilion, opened the mountain''s formation.


    The young man before him, Li Congren, was the grandson of Li Ergou, once known as Mu Congren.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat poked its head out from a nearby hole, licking its lips as it stared intently at the distant visitor.


    Mu Congren''s heart tightened, a trace of wariness shing in his eyes as he nced at thete second-rank Earth Burrowing Rat.


    He instinctively reached for the spirit pet pouch at his waist.


    "Grandpa Lan, this is my first visit since establishing my Foundation. Please ept these local specialties as a token of respect."


    As he entered the pavilion, Li Congren presented arge gift box.


    Lan Chang''an scanned it with his spiritual sense, slightly surprised. The gift included several superior-grade second-rank ores, among them a piece of quasi-third-rank cold iron essence.


    "You''ve been thoughtful, Congren."


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an had been experimenting with creating top-grade second-rank puppets and had a demand for high-quality materials.


    As he epted Li Congren''s tribute, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but think of Lin Lu.


    Thest junior who had shown such respect had ended up lost on the battlefield of a neighboring country, with his fate unknown.


    "Grandpa Lan, I''m also here to repay a debt on behalf of my grandfather."


    Li Congren handed over a brocade pouch.


    "Hmm."


    Lan Chang''an weighed it in his hand, feeling the presence of two thousand low-grade spirit stones inside.


    Before Mu Congren''s external expansion, Li Erqing had approached Lan Chang''an to purchase a batch of valuable war supplies, including mid-to-superior-grade second-rank talismans and two second-rank puppets.


    At that time, Li Erqing and his grandson''s years of spirit stone reserves had been drained and they still owed Lan Chang''an two thousand spirit stones.


    Since Li Erqing had many descendants, Lan Chang''an had never worried about the debt being repaid.


    "Congren has one thing to thank Grandpa Lan for, those supplies you sold to us at a favorable price twenty years ago, they yed a crucial role in helping this junior fend off demonic cultivators and protect our family''snd." Li Congren said gratefully.


    "Not long ago, your grandfather mentioned you in a letter. Leading a branch of the family to establish roots in a remote and harshnd and achieving such development is no small feat."


    Lan Chang''an sized up theposed and capable Li Congren, nodding in approval.


    Li Congren''s qualifications were simr to that of Mu Bingyun.


    Although this soncked any exceptional skills, he excelled in management.


    The branch lineage that he brought out had developed well. In just a few decades, it had reached the level of an established Foundation Establishment family, though it stillcked deep foundations.


    Recently, Li Congren formally changed his surname back to "Li," and the branch he led had established itself as a new family under the name "Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain."


    The branch he led consisted entirely of Li Erqing''s direct descendants. After nearly two decades of groundwork, the split faced little resistance.


    Some of the elder nsmen from Feiyue Lake had voicedints, but none had gone so far as to take action.


    Mu Bingyun had tacitly approved the split.


    Years ago, when the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake had three Foundation Establishment cultivators simultaneously, the spiritual vein couldn''t amodate so many.


    At that time, the conflict and interests between the new and old factions of the Mu Family had reached a bottleneck. It was Li Congren who voluntarily took Li Erqing''s direct descendants to a remote, harshnd to establish their own foothold.


    Had Li Congren not stepped up, Feiyue Lake, after a failed expansion, would sooner orter split due to internal strife.


    "Although establishing a branch outside the family is tough, ites without the internal constraints of the main family. With everyone working together, and with a bit of luck, we''ve managed to secure our position." Li Congren replied humbly.


    Lan Chang''an knew that managing people was often harder than managing circumstances.


    Li Congren''s management skills far surpassed those of his grandfather, and even Mu Bingyun.


    Now, although the Li branch had formally split off, it maintained close ties and cooperation with the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    After all, the two families shared the same bloodline.


    Moreover, Li Erqing himself had no desire to leave the Mu Family, having sworn to protect Feiyue Lake until thest day.


    This was an important bond that kept the two families closely allied.


    ...


    After chatting for half an hour, Lan Chang''an had a good understanding of Li Congren''s current situation.


    The Li Family that Li Congren had established was located in the northwest of Liang, near the border.


    Specifically, it was southwest of the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    If one were to travel from the Zhou Family''s territory to the Liang Kingdom''s western "Zijing Immortal City," they would pass near the Snow Plum Mountain Li Family.


    Zijing Immortal City was also near the border, and engaged in trade with the Jing Kingdom in the Western region.


    Li Congren had managed to establish roots in such a chaotic and harshnd, partly due to his diplomatic skills.


    For example, the Beast Taming Zhou Family was the strongest cultivation family in that region.


    Li Congren leveraged his rtionship with Lan Chang''an, coupled with offerings, to maintain good rtions with the Zhou Family''s Zhou Jingxuan.


    On a personal level, Li Congren had also formed a life-and-death bond with a mid-Foundation Establishment loose cultivator.


    This loose cultivator became an esteemed guest of the Li Family.


    Moreover, Li Congren had secretly formed a Daopanionship with a female cultivator in early Foundation Establishment, though this was not publicly known.


    The rapid development of the Li branch was also due to what Li Congren referred to as the "right ce, right time."


    In simple terms, they had profited from the war.


    The Li Family had purchased the development rights to a mine for fifty years at a low price ten years before the war.


    When the war broke out, the prices of various materials skyrocketed, and iron-rted ores were no exception.


    In addition to the increased value of their mines, the flow of war supplies from the Jing Kingdom to the Liang Kingdom boosted trade in the Li Family''s region.


    "What is the current situation in Jing Kingdom?" Lan Chang''an asked with apparent curiosity.


    At present, several nearby countries¡ªLiang Kingdom, Feng Kingdom, Yan Kingdom, and Chen Kingdom¡ªwere all embroiled in cultivation wars.


    However, the battlefield was confined to Feng Kingdom.


    "The Jing Kingdom is a neutral cultivation nation, without fourth-rank spiritual veins or Nascent Soul-level sects, and it never gets involved in disputes between neighboring countries."


    "The country is situated at the intersection of the Chen Kingdom, the Liang Kingdom, and the ck Fog Mountain Range. It''s rich in materials and has a well-developed tradework. In recent years, the sects and families of Jing Kingdom have profited greatly from the cultivation wars..."


    Li Congren exined the situation in Jing Kingdom.


    The Li branch was close to the Liang Kingdom''s northwest border and had dealings with merchants from the Jing Kingdom.


    Seeing that Lan Chang''an was interested, Li Congren gifted him a jade slip containing detailed information about the cultivation world of Jing Kingdom.


    "Jing Kingdom, as a neutral cultivation nation that avoids involvement in wars, has a stable situation. It can serve as a potential fallback option."


    Lan Chang''an mused to himself.


    ...


    Afterward, Lan Chang''an gave Li Congren some guidance on his cultivation.


    Li Congren, nearly ten years younger than Mu Bingyun, had already reached the peak of early Foundation Establishment. However, breaking through the bottleneck would require several more years of polishing.


    Before leaving, Li Congren purchased a batch of war supplies from Lan Chang''an.


    Li Congren''s wealth surprised Lan Chang''an.


    The young man bought three puppets, one each at the early, mid, andte second-rank stages.


    In terms of talismans, he primarily purchased mid-to-superior-grade second-rank ones, acquiring around a dozen, including two top second-rank talismans.


    Of course, such financial power belonged to the family''s resources, not Li Congren''s personal wealth.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat looked restless, showing an unsatisfied expression as it watched Li Congren take off.


    "Forgive me for the embarrassment, Grandpa Lan. I have a spirit rat as a pet, but it''s only at the early second rank and isn''t good at fighting, so I didn''t dare bring it out to meet the Earth Burrowing Rat."


    Li Congren exined with a smile.


    "Oh? Is your spirit rat male or female?"


    "It''s male," Li Congren replied.


    Lan Chang''an nced at the Earth Burrowing Rat with a knowing smile.


    After Li Congren left Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''anmunicated with the Earth Burrowing Rat for a while.


    "Mu Congren''s spirit rat pet isn''t inferior to the current Earth Burrowing Rat in terms of bloodline quality. Not good at fighting? Could it be one of those rare types specialized in treasure or ore hunting? If so, its value would be much higher than the Earth Burrowing Rat."


    "It seems that the rapid development of the branch led by Mu Congren isn''t solely due to the increasing value of existing minerals," considering the quasi-third-rank ore that Mu Congren had gifted, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but specte.


    He didn''t harbor any intent to pry or covet.


    For Foundation Establishment cultivators, such opportunities were within the normal range, aided by the winds of war.


    ...


    Three years passed in the blink of an eye.


    Lan Chang''an had been cultivating at the sixth level of Foundation Establishment for seven or eight years.


    One day, Shi Manrong came to Little Turtle Peak with news.


    "Shen Bixin and Song Wenshu''s wedding has been postponed?"


    Lan Chang''an was taken aback, almost thinking that Fairy Shi was joking.


    A few months ago, they had received an invitation from Song Wenshu, with the wedding scheduled for half a yearter.


    "At first, I didn''t believe it either. But this newses from a disciple of me Departing Pce." Shi Manrong said, her expression puzzled.


    "A postponed wedding is not the same as a canceled one. What could have happened?"


    Lan Chang''an found it strange and pondered.


    Although Song Wenshu wasn''t from the core disciples or the direct line of elders in me Departing Pce, he was still considered to have a notable background.


    "Have there been any price increases in formations recently?"


    "The demand and prices for lower-tier formations haven''t moved, but for quasi-third-rank formations, both demand and prices have increased abnormally." Fairy Shi quickly responded, her eyes turning thoughtful.


    "Are you suggesting that this is rted to the war?" She then looked at Lan Chang''an with clear eyes.


    "If Song Wenshu was suddenly summoned by the sect to the frontlines, then postponing the wedding due to an unavoidable reason wouldn''t be disgraceful." Lan Chang''an considered one possibility.


    "Three years ago, Liang Kingdom''s sects conscripted a third batch of cultivators. The fourth round of conscription is indeed approaching..." Fairy Shi murmured.


    But Lan Chang''an had a feeling that things weren''t that simple.


    In the past year, he hadn''t received any war updates from Zhao Tan''er in Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an spected that there might have been an unknown change on the frontlines of the neighboring country.


    Perhaps Zhao Tan''er had been forbidden by her sect from sending out any information regarding the war.


    With his channels for obtaining war information cut off, Lan Chang''an felt uneasy.


    If the cultivation war was a massive storm, then he was like a small boat on the sea.


    The current situation was akin to saying that the boat had lost its ability to predict the weather of the storm.


    In a few more years, Lan Chang''an would advance to thete Foundation Establishment stage, significantly boosting his strength. He didn''t want to face unexpected challenges.


    "There is one ce where I should be able to obtain thetest war intelligence..."

 Chapter 185: The Battlefield of Feng Kingdom

    Chapter 185: The Battlefield of Feng Kingdom


    In the northern part of Feng Kingdom''s battlefield, at Jin Yun Valley''s temporary logistics outpost.


    The formation lights in the valley by the riverbank had dimmed, and the hastily constructed pavilions and stone houses had copsed, leaving behind only ruins and rubble.


    The surrounding area was riddled with pits and scorch marks, with ck smoke rising intermittently.


    "Senior Sister Zhao, we owe our survival to you."


    A surviving male Foundation Establishment cultivator from Jin Yun Valley looked toward the blood-stained, white-robed figure with lingering fear.


    Not long ago, this ce had witnessed a fierce battle, resulting in the loss of nearly twenty sect cultivators. Thanks to the advantage of the formation, they managed to repel the attack from Feng Kingdom''s cultivators.


    "We barely held out. If even our logistics outposts are being attacked like this, I can''t imagine how the cultivators on the frontlines are faring."


    Zhao Siyao''s face was pale, her hair disheveled, and her once-fair and delicate side profile bore a couple of dark red scars.Her shoulder had been pierced by a ck spike, and the blood around it had already coagted.


    Hiss!


    Zhao Siyao groaned, cold sweat beading on her forehead as she struggled to sit down, swallowing a few pills to regte her chaotic breath.


    "Senior Sister Zhao, your injuries are serious; you need immediate treatment."


    A white-robed Foundation Establishment youth with a medicine bag on his back approached with concern.


    "Junior Brother Qin, my injuries aren''t fatal, I am just a bit weak. You should attend to the critically injured first." Zhao Siyao forced a smile, declining his offer.


    The nearby Jin Yun Valley cultivators nced at Junior Brother Qin with disdain in their eyes.


    Junior Brother Qin, who was in the middle stage of Foundation Establishment, was barely considered a healer. Due to this and the fact that his elder was a Fake-Dan cultivator from Jin Yun Valley, he had been assigned to the logistics outpost.


    The deep pration of the Feng Kingdom battlefield meant that even logistics cultivators often faced attacks and weren''t particrly safe.


    However, this Junior Brother Qin always imed the role of a "healer" during battles, refusing to fight on the frontlines and preferring to hide in the back and avoid danger.


    "Senior Sister Zhao, you''re the head of this outpost and the strongest cultivator here. No one is more important than you. If the enemy returns before you''ve recovered, the consequences would be unimaginable."


    Junior Brother Qin insisted, moving closer to treat Zhao Siyao.


    "Senior Sister Zhao, your injuries take priority."


    Another male Foundation Establishment cultivator agreed.


    Left with no choice, Zhao Siyao allowed Junior Brother Qin to help her remove the ck spike from her shoulder, detoxify the wound, and bandage it.


    Aside from being cowardly, Junior Brother Qin had no other faults. He openly pursued Zhao Siyao, always expressing concern and offering words offort.


    While bandaging her wound, he didn''t disy any inappropriate behavior.


    "Senior Sister Zhao, it seems your leg is also injured? Let me treat it for you as well." Junior Brother Qin noticed something off about Zhao Siyao''s calf.


    Though her skirt concealed it, her movements betrayed the injury to his keen eyes.


    "It''s just a minor injury; there''s no need to trouble you further. Junior Brother Qin, please attend to the critically injured disciples." Zhao Siyao smiled as she declined.


    "Alright."


    Junior Brother Qin was a bit disappointed but did not press the issue.


    He called over a female healer at thete stage of Qi-Refining to treat Zhao Siyao''s leg injury.


    In truth, Zhao Siyao''s leg was fractured, and the injury was not minor.


    The female healer reset the bone and used spells to treat the wound before bandaging it.


    This scene triggered a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu for Zhao Siyao, causing her to fall into a state of reminiscence, silent for a long time.


    ...


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Suddenly, the sound of something cutting through the air interrupted Zhao Siyao''s thoughts.


    Two streaks of light, one chasing the other, sped toward the outpost.


    The leading figure was riding a gleaming silver flying shuttle, emitting the aura of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, his speed far surpassing that of an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "It''s Senior Brother Zhang!"


    The figure in front was a disheveled young man with slightly dark skin.


    "Trouble! A Fake-Dan cultivator from the enemy is pursuing him!"


    The pursuer''s light was terrifying, exuding the aura of an Immortal''s Core power.


    It was a Fake-Dan cultivator.


    The remaining group of cultivators at this Jin Yun Valley''s temporary outpost were thrown into panic.


    "Hahaha! Zhang Tieshan, this time I''vee prepared. Let''s see where you can run to now!"


    Laughter echoed from several li away as an elderly man with white hair and a purple robe, a Fake-Dan cultivator, rode a misty purple cloud, his face full of mockery.


    "A temporary outpost of my sect?"


    Zhang Tieshan, who was gravely injured, saw the Jin Yun Valley banner and felt a moment of joy.


    If he could get help from twote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators from his sect, they might be able to hold off the Fake-Dan cultivator.


    However, seeing the wrecked scene in front of him, the cultivators in that outpost, who had obviously just gone through a deadly battle, were mostly wounded, and theirbat power was hardly something to look forward to.


    He hadn''t intended to lead a Fake-Dan cultivator here, as it could spell disaster for everyone.


    "Zhang Tieshan, this disaster star! If he wants to die, that''s fine, but why drag us down with him?" Junior Brother Qin looked desperate and cursed angrily.


    "It''s useless to talk about this now."


    Zhao Siyao''s face turned grim, but she forced herself to calm down.


    She sent a voice transmission: "Senior Brother Zhang, quickly retreat into the formation! We''ll join forces to resist the Immortal."


    "Junior Sister Zhao, I''ve caused you trouble."


    Zhang Tieshan forced a bitter smile, gritting his teeth as he flew toward the temporary outpost.


    Even if he changed direction now, the pursuing Core Formation cultivator might not spare Zhao Siyao and the others, and could easily ughter these wounded cultivators in passing.


    Pfft!


    As Zhang Tieshannded, he stumbled and coughed up a mouthful of blood.


    "Senior Brother Zhang, your injuries..."


    "During the fight earlier, my internal organs were injured by ''Purple Maple Immortal,'' but I took some secret medicine to temporarily suppress it..." Zhang Tieshan steadied himself and swallowed two brown-red pills.


    Just as he caught his breath.


    Boom! The formation of the temporary outpost shook violently, creating a gap.


    Two screams were heard from Jin Yun Valley''s side.


    The shockwave from the Fake-Dan cultivator''s attack killed twote-stage Qi-Refining cultivators who were healing their wounds.


    "Senior Brother Zhang, the formation was damaged in the previous battle. To deal with the Fake-Dan cultivator, we''ll have to rely on ourselves." Zhao Siyao reminded him.


    As they spoke, the white-haired Fake-Dan cultivator activated a gourd-shaped magical treasure.


    Boom! Boom!


    The gourd spewed out deep purple condensed fireballs that exploded in the air and on the ground, creating massive clouds of fire.


    Zhang Tieshan activated a metal sphere-like prototype magical treasure, consuming arge amount of his mana.


    The metal sphere radiated a golden light, expanding to the size of a house, resembling a small sun with thousands of metal threads swirling around it, facing the gourd''s fireballs head-on.


    Zhao Siyao and the three other wounded Foundation Establishment cultivators each wielded their own supreme-grade magical weapons to assist in resisting the white-haired Fake-Dan cultivator''s assault.


    For the moment, they managed to withstand the first wave of the Fake-Dan cultivator''s attacks.


    However, both Zhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao, the main forces at thete Foundation Establishment stage, were seriously injured and had consumed a lot of mana.


    As for the early and mid-Foundation Establishment cultivators, they could hardly pose a significant threat to a Fake-Dan cultivator.


    "Purple Maple Immortal, we havee to assist."


    At that moment, the sound of something breaking through the air came from the distant mountains.


    Three injured Foundation Establishment cultivatorsughed arrogantly as they returned, followed by severalte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators.


    "These are the cultivators from ''Golden Sun Sect,'' the affiliated sect that attacked us earlier." Junior Brother Qin''s face turned pale, and his heart sank.


    With this, they lost even the numerical advantage and couldn''t withstand the frontal assault led by a Fake-Dan cultivator.


    "Fellow disciples, this is a life-and-death moment. If you have any means left, use them now." Zhang Tieshan sent a solemn voice transmission.


    "Our only chance of survival is to seriously injure or even kill Purple Maple Immortal before his reinforcements arrive."


    "Injure or kill a Fake-Dan cultivator?"


    Junior Brother Qin''s eyes widened, thinking Zhang Tieshan had lost his mind.


    "Senior Brother Zhang, you''re the strongest among us. We''ll follow your lead." Zhao Siyao took a deep breath, her delicate hand subtly resting near her chest.


    She had kept her strongest trump card close to her at all times, never revealing it to anyone.


    "Magical treasures wielded by Fake-Dan cultivators cannot be sustained for long. ''Purple Maple Immortal'' has also consumed a lot of energy while chasing me. When he starts to falter, that will be our chance!"


    As Zhang Tieshanmunicated via voice transmission, he and Zhao Siyao charged toward Purple Maple Immortal, one in front of the other.


    "A mere remnant of troops, how can hope to injure this Immortal?"


    Purple Maple Immortal, seeing through Zhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao''s intentions, sneered. Standing atop his gourd-shaped magical treasure, he activated his protective barrier and responded with confidence and ease.


    Zhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao''sbined assault barely scratched Purple Maple Immortal.


    Their all-out attack left them vulnerable, and Purple Maple Immortal''s counterattack only worsened their injuries.


    Zhao Siyao''s white robes were now ckened by the mes, and her once wless, snow-like skin was smeared with ash and soot.


    "Is this all you¡¯ve got, Zhang Tieshan?" Purple Maple Immortal stroked his beard with a mocking smile.


    Years ago, Zhang Tieshan had managed to escape his pursuit, leaving behind a stain on his reputation.


    This time, however, he was well-prepared, diligently refining his escape techniques and approaching the battle with careful precision, giving no room forcency.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    At this moment, three Feng Kingdom Foundation Establishment cultivators were rapidly approaching the scene.


    Like Purple Maple Immortal, they wore confident smiles, certain of their impending victory.


    However, those smiles quickly froze on their faces.


    Crack! Boom¡ª


    Zhang Tieshan''s metal sphere-like magical treasure prototype suddenly exploded, unleashing a torrent of metallic shards that engulfed Purple Maple Immortal and his gourd treasure.


    The explosion''s power exceeded even the full-force attack of an ordinary Fake-Dan cultivator.


    But that alone wasn''t enough to deliver a fatal blow.


    At the same time, Zhao Siyao activated a talisman, releasing a surge of spiritual energy powerful enough to rm even a True-Dan Core Formation cultivator.


    No one noticed that this talisman was slightlyrger than usual, imbued with a certain spiritual essence.


    Roar!


    In an instant, a dragon-shaped wave of water, thirty zhang long, took form, its roar reverberating through the air, sending chills down the spine. The dragon''s head transformed into a towering pir of water that streaked across the sky.


    "A third-rank talisman, no¡ª"


    Purple Maple Immortal''s scalp tingled with dread as his pupils reflected the dragon''s head plummeting down from the sky.


    His defenses, already breached by Zhang Tieshan''s exploding metal sphere, left him utterly powerless against this water-based spell, which was slightly more potent than what a True-Dan Core Formation cultivator could typically produce.


    Crash! Boom!


    The dragon''s head pir, carrying an overwhelming force, engulfed Purple Maple Immortal, shattering the dim protective glow around his body in an instant.


    Ugh!


    The immense, unstoppable force was like a dam bursting, causing the Fake-Dan cultivator to cough up blood as his internal organs were nearly pulverized.


    "The power of this talisman..."


    Zhang Tieshan''s eyes twitched as he looked at Zhao Siyao in disbelief.


    His n was to seriously injure the Immortal, win a chance of survival, and allow Zhao Siyao and the others to assist and slightly share the pressure.


    But he had never expected to actually kill Purple Maple Immortal.


    "We¡¯ve really stirred up trouble now!" Zhang Tieshan muttered under his breath, barely audible.


    Swish!


    Purple Maple Immortal''s body, flung by the torrent, was suddenly pierced through the heart by a gleaming fragment of metal.


    The Fake-Dan Immortal of Feng Kingdom died with eyes wide open in disbelief, his body and magical treasure plummeting to the ground.


    "A third-rank talisman! Run¡ª"


    The three approaching Foundation Establishment cultivators from Feng Kingdom were struck by the water dragon''s wave, killing two of the more seriously injured ones on the spot.


    Ugh!


    Zhao Siyao spat out blood, her face as pale as paper.


    Due to her inexperience, she had not perfectly guided the power of the Core Formation level talisman, almost injuring herself in the process.


    "Cough, cough... Junior Sister Zhao, we''ve managed to kill a Fake-Dan Immortal, narrowly escaping death and earning a great merit."


    Zhang Tieshan, blood-stained but smiling, staggered as he and Zhao Siyaonded on the ground.


    "A Fake-Dan Immortal has fallen?"


    The remaining Jin Yun Valley cultivators, including Junior Brother Qin, were either shocked or overjoyed.


    Zhao Siyao stared at the ashes of the talisman in her hand, her heart surging withplex emotions, unable to speak for a long time.


    The power of this talisman, quietly given to her by Lan Chang''an years ago, far exceeded her expectations.


    For the first time, a hint of mystery arose within her heart towards this turtle friend who she had been friends with for a century.


    "Fortunately, Junior Sister Zhao had a third-rank talisman; otherwise, today would have been much more dangerous." Zhang Tieshan remarked, though he didn''t inquire about the origin of the talisman.


    In Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, a few true disciples of major sects might be bestowed with such life-saving items from their elders.


    "That talisman was something I found by chance in an ancient antique store years ago in the mortal world. Unfortunately, I only had the one."


    Zhao Siyao said briefly, then quickly changed the subject, asking, "Daoist Zhang, you were chased to this ce by a Fake-Dan cultivator. How is the situation on the frontlines?"


    "We suffered a crushing defeat on the frontlines!" Zhang Tieshan sighed heavily, his face weary and weak as he sat down to recover.


    "How could we suffer such a defeat when we clearly had the advantage?"


    As they recovered, the two continued tomunicate via voice transmission.


    "Our army of cultivators was ambushed by forces led by the Blood Sword Valley when we attacked the ''Tantai Family,'' the number one family of Feng Kingdom..."


    "Several True-Dans from Liang Kingdom''s sects perished, and even our Jin Yun Valley lost a mid-Core Formation Immortal."


    "What''s even more terrifying is that that battle erupted into a Nascent Soul-level battle. It''s said that even the Supreme Elder of me Departing Pce..."


    Zhang Tieshan''s emotions wavered, and he almost didn''t dare to speak further.

 Chapter 186: Tian Zhi’s Prediction

    Chapter 186: Tian Zhi¡¯s Prediction


    In the heart of the Liang Kingdom, a young cultivator of the Foundation Establishment realm, with an unremarkable appearance, suddenly halted his flight amidst the clouds.


    "Hmm?"


    Lan Chang''an sensed a peculiar and indescribable feeling, his gaze distant as it fixed in the direction of the Feng Kingdom battlefield.


    Just a moment ago, he faintly sensed that the treasure talisman he had secretly gifted to Zhao Siyao years ago had been used.


    This urrence would be deemed impossible for an ordinary talisman. However, Lan Chang''an''s talisman was no ordinary one; it had been nurtured like a magical treasure.


    When a magical treasure is nurtured for a long time, it gains a form of spirituality. Treasure talismans are crafted from extraordinary materials, and though they aren''t quite like magical treasures, the principle was simr.


    Additionally, due to the uniqueness of the Evergreen Technique he practiced, it was not entirely unexpected that after decades of nurturing, a subtle psychic connection would develop.


    "For the treasure talisman to be used, Fellow Daoist Zhao must have encountered a great crisis. I can only hope she survives this cmity safely..."A few days ago, the sudden postponement of Song Wenshu''s wedding had already led Lan Chang''an to specte that something might have changed on the Feng Kingdom battlefield. Zhao Siyao''s use of the treasure talisman further confirmed his suspicions.


    The talisman was crafted from a third-rank spiritual wood and had been nurtured for decades. If used appropriately, it could severely wound a typical Fake-Dan cultivator.


    As for killing one, that was less likely.


    The difficulty between defeating and killing is more than double.


    Unless the Fake-Dan cultivator was careless or heavily injured.


    Even for an early-stage True-Dan cultivator, it would be difficult to kill a Fake-Dan cultivator instantly. If three Fake-Dan cultivators joined forces, they could resist an early-stage True-Dan cultivator.


    The power of a magical treasure controlled by a Fake-Dan cultivator is also stronger than that of a quasi-third-rank talisman.


    Naturally, Lan Chang''an was unaware that Zhang Tieshan''s short-term burst of power wasparable to that of a Fake-Dan Immortal, and together with Zhao Siyao, they managed to kill a Fake-Dan cultivator who was not in peak condition.


    When Lan Chang''an had gifted the talisman, his initial intention was to help Zhao Siyao escape from a Fake-Dan cultivator.


    As for True-Dan cultivators? Their numbers were far fewer than those of Fake-Dan cultivators.


    If Zhao Siyao did encounter one, she would have to rely on her own luck.


    Even if Lan Chang''an encountered a True-Dan cultivator, he wouldn''t dare to say he could escape safely, even with more treasure talismans at his disposal.


    Talismans of the same level can hardly threaten cultivators of the same realm. Because, the power of magical treasures is stronger than talismans of the same level.


    Only by summoning the second life of the Nine Seal Stele and using treasure talismans in conjunction with it could Lan Chang''an have a good chance of escaping from a True-Dan cultivator.


    ...


    Over the years, as his strength, connections, and wealth soared, Lan Chang''an found acquiring third-rank spiritual wood far less challenging than before.


    In recent years, the number of talismans made from third-rank spiritual wood in his possession had increased, totaling more than ten.


    Talismans made from third-rank spiritual wood, when nurtured with Evergreen mana, could quickly reach the power of early-stage third-rank, or even slightly surpass it.


    The speed of nurturing also corrted with one''s cultivation level.


    When Lan Chang''an was at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment, his nurturing speed was nearly twice as fast as it had been at the early stage.


    Currently, the strongest treasure talisman in his possession was crafted from the third-rank mid-grade "Purple Radiant Spirit Wood," and had been nurtured for decades. Its power was even approaching the mid-grade third-rank level.


    The one he gifted to Zhao Siyao was the strongest talisman made from the low-grade third-rank spiritual wood he had.


    Theoretically, as long as the nurturing time is sufficient and the mana is strong enough, even a top-grade second-rank talisman could potentially reach true third-rank power.


    However, once the talisman''s power exceeded the material''s limit, the speed of enhancement will be extremely slow.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    In the fourth-floor reception room of the Tian Zhi Pavilion in Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    "Which type of information is this fellow Daoist seeking?"


    An elderly man at the Foundation Establishment stage greeted Lan Chang''an with a warm smile.


    "I want to know about the situation on the Feng Kingdom battlefield."


    The ordinary-looking young man disguised by Lan Chang''an responded without hesitation.


    "Oh! The Feng Kingdom battlefield? Recently, there has been a significant increase in cultivators seeking information in that area," the elderly man remarked with a hint of surprise.


    "The Feng Kingdom battlefield is one of our key focuses at the Tian Zhi Pavilion. Information is categorized into three levels: A, B, and C."


    "Oh, what¡¯s the difference between them, and how are they priced?"


    "Level C information costs six hundred spirit stones. It provides basic information about the frontline, including some rumors, but the uracy might be slightlycking. This is the typical intelligence that mid-level cultivators from various sects can obtain."


    "Level B information costs fifteen hundred spirit stones. It includes most of the frontline information essible to high-level sect members."


    "Level A information costs five thousand spirit stones. In addition to being more detailed, the main difference from Level B is that it includes the general movements of Nascent Soul cultivators and predictions about the future course of the war."


    "Purchasing Level A information also requires swearing an oath of heart demon to not divulge the information to outsiders."


    "Level A intelligence is so expensive?" Lan Chang''an mulled it over but ultimately decided to purchase the Level A information. After all, he was currently well-off in terms of spirit stones.


    Having lived through several lifetimes, he understood the importance of key information at the upper echelons.


    Wars in the cultivation world directly impacted his safety and future cultivation path.


    Theing decades would be a critical transition period for him, from Foundation Establishment to Core Formation, and this was especially crucial.


    "Five thousand spirit stones, please," the elderly man said with a broad smile, masking his inner surprise.


    It was rare for an individual cultivator to purchase Level A information, as it was usually done on behalf of an organization.


    After the payment, Lan Chang''an received a special jade slip.


    As the elderly man had exined, once he read the contents, the information within the jade slip would automatically erase itself.


    "By the way, does the Tian Zhi Pavilion still recruit members?" Lan Chang''an asked with a faint smile as he was about to leave.


    If he could infiltrate a top-tier intelligence organization that operated across multiple nations, it would be quite a beneficial arrangement for someone with a long lifespan like his.


    "Apologies, the Tian Zhi Pavilion has its own methods for cultivating members and does not openly recruit. We only consider external informants for temporary roles, which carry higher risks..." The elderly man smiled in response.


    Lan Chang''an had only asked out of curiosity.


    Even if the Tian Zhi Pavilion agreed, he might not have dared to join.


    In the past, Lan Chang''an had once wondered about what kind of information the Tian Zhi Pavilion had on him and whether there were any potential leaks.


    But he quickly dismissed the idea.


    After all, supply follows demand.


    Since he did not entangle himself in worldly affairs and held no significant interests, very few cultivators would pay attention to his information, and the Tian Zhi Pavilion wouldn¡¯t delve deeply into it.


    If he were to purchase information about himself, it would only add to his own problems.


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    In a crowded inn within Liaoyuan Immortal City, Lan Chang''an examined the Level A information contained within the jade slip.


    "The sects of Liang Kingdom suffered a major defeat at the frontlines, falling into an ambush set by the ''Tantai Family'' of Feng Kingdom. Several True-Dan cultivators perished, more than a dozen Fake-Dan cultivators were killed in action, hundreds of Foundation Establishment cultivators were in, and thousands of Qi-Refining cultivators fell..."


    "The ambush was orchestrated by major forces including the Golden Sun Sect, Proud Moon Pce, Blood Sword Valley, and the Tantai Family."


    "The Nascent Soul True Monarch of Chen Kingdom seems dissatisfied with Liang Kingdom''s intervention in the war to steal the victory. It is likely that some agreement was reached, as the ''Tian Luo True Monarch'' of Chen Kingdom tacitly allowed one of Golden Sun Sect''s Nascent Soul cultivators that was holding the back to quietly leave."


    "The Nascent Soul True Monarch of Liang Kingdom, ''Master Lihuo,'' was ambushed by the Nascent Soul cultivators from Golden Sun Sect and Blood Sword Valley, sustaining severe injuries. He narrowly escaped death and won''t recover for at least twenty years."


    "Feng Kingdom is conducting psychological warfare, spreading false rumors that Master Lihuo has perished, or that his body was destroyed and only his Nascent Soul escaped, to incite panic."


    At this point, Lan Chang''an felt his heart pounding. He hadn''t expected that in the recent major battle, the Supreme Elder of me Departing Pce had almost perished.


    If the information he had purchased had not been of a high enough grade, he wouldn''t have been able to obtain an urate assessment of Master Lihuo''s condition.


    If he had been misled by vague intelligence, he might have made a wrong decision, such as recklessly leaving Liang Kingdom.


    "The shift in the situation seemsrgely influenced by the Nascent Soul powers of Chen Kingdom. Feng Kingdom''s sects likely offered some benefits to reach a covert agreement." Lan Chang''an mused.


    Fortunately, the strongest Nascent Soul cultivator of the Yan Kingdom, "Chu Tianfeng," had no particr interest in the Liang Kingdom.


    This mid-stage Nascent Soul prodigy was primarily focused on securing a mid fourth-rank spiritual vein and establishing a domain befitting his status and cultivation.


    Otherwise, the return of Master Lihuo to me Departing Pce might not have been possible.


    The intelligence also provided an exnation for the fourth mobilization of the sects in the Liang Kingdom.


    This time, the recruitment of cultivators wasn''t for an expedition.


    It was to "escort" the defeated army of the Liang Kingdom back to safety.


    "No wonder Song Wenshu postponed his wedding," Lan Chang''an realized as he pieced together the causes and effects.


    The Supreme Elder of me Departing Pce had almost died, and high-level True-Dan cultivators had perished. When such a big event happened and reinforcements were called for, even core disciples could not enjoy any privileges.


    ...


    The Level A intelligence also included the Tian Zhi Pavilion''s predictions regarding the war''s future direction.


    "Liang Kingdom''s sects suffered a costly defeat. With the Nascent Soul True Monarch gravely injured, they are unlikely to invade Feng Kingdom again and will probably retreat to defend their homnd."


    "The war between Yan Kingdom, Feng Kingdom, and Chen Kingdom might see a new phase, and peace talks cannot be ruled out."


    "In about ten years, there is a chance that Liang Kingdom''s homnd might be a battlefield."


    "If the ''Six Sect of the Devil''s Path,'' one of thergest alliances in the Great Qing cultivation world, continues to expand eastward, this possibility will be doubled!"


    Reading these predictions, Lan Chang''an felt a tremor in his heart.


    At first, he thought the intelligence was overpriced, but now it seemed worth every spirit stone.


    Many of the intricate details of this war would not have been revealed in Level B or Level C intelligence.


    "Ten years, huh? By then, I should have advanced to thete stage of the Foundation Establishment Realm, significantly increasing my strength. Even if I have to flee to another country, I''ll be much safer." Lan Chang''an''s mind settled somewhat.


    In two months, he would turn one hundred thirty-four years old.


    He had spent about twelve years each advancing through the first twoyers of the mid-stage Foundation Establishment.


    However, progressing from mid-stage tote-stage Foundation Establishment required more umtion, and it would likely take about fourteen to fifteen years.


    It was estimated that after reaching one hundred forty years old, he would be ready to break through to thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    ...


    After obtaining the intelligence, Lan Chang''an didn''t leave Liaoyuan Immortal City immediately.


    He stayed in the city for two months to collect materials.


    This time, his focus was on collecting third-rank spirit sand, as well as materials for top-grade second-rank puppets and quasi-third-rank puppets.


    Lan Chang''an''s "body refinement talent" far exceeded his spiritual root aptitude.


    Years ago, he had already cultivated the "Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual" to the peak of its sixthyer.


    This body refining technique wasn''t high-tier and didn''t include the inheritance for third-rank body refinement. The highest it could reach was the seventhyer, which was quasi-third-rank.


    Even reaching the quasi-third-rank level of body refinement was more difficult than an ordinary cultivator forming a Gray Dan. As for True-Dan level body refinement, it was even harder than achieving a True-Dan.


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t overly ambitious. He aimed to first cultivate the "Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual" to the seventhyer, which would be equivalent to the physical body of a Fake-Dan-level demonic beast.


    At that point, he would be much morefortable facing threats at the level of Fake-Dan Immortals.


    As for puppetry, Lan Chang''an had begun to meet the conditions for crafting top-grade second-rank puppets, but he still needed more practice.


    Regarding quasi-third-rank puppets, whosebat strength matched that of Fake-Dan cultivators, he would probably need to wait until he reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment to start researching and attempting them.


    Currently, the main factors limiting Lan Chang''an''s progress in puppetry were theck of high-quality materials and theck of inheritance.


    The puppet inheritance left by Puppet Master Sang only covered up to this point.


    "Unfortunately, the inheritance for third-rank puppets is even rarer and more obscure than that of third-rank alchemist inheritance."


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an hadn''t neglected the auctions held in the nearby immortal cities.


    Only with great luck at arge auction might he encounter a third-rank puppet inheritance.


    In two months, Lan Chang''an''s collection of materials was not progressing well.


    Through the Tengxing Merchant Association''s channels, he managed to acquire some top-grade second-rank puppet materials.


    However, his search for quasi-third-rank puppet materials, which involved third-rank materials, yielded little results.


    The third-rank spirit sand, which Lan Chang''an valued most, was acquired in only a tiny quantity, not enough to reach the seventhyer of the body refinement manual.


    "I wonder if Shen Bixin can be of help?" Lan Chang''an pondered.


    In the past, he would have preferred to collect materials slowly as a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator collecting a substantial amount of third-rank materials would raise suspicion.


    Even though body refining schools were numerous, the purpose of collecting spirit sand stones could not be easily discerned, and now having received the intelligence predicting that the war might spread into Liang Kingdom''s territory, it was justified to expedite his progress for the sake of survival.


    The Tengxing Merchant Association, unlike Huanglong Mountain, had no one above the Fake-Dan realm and posed no threat to Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    The day before leaving Liaoyuan Immortal City, Lan Chang''an, in his true identity, visited the Tengxing Merchant Association''s residence to meet with Shen Bixin.


    At this time, Shen Bixin was supposed to be marrying Song Wenshu, but she was still waiting to wed.


    "Miss Shen rarely sees guests these days, yet she is personally receiving a Foundation Establishment male cultivator today?"


    Under the curious gazes of two maidservants, Lan Chang''an entered a side hall of the Tengxing Merchant Association''s residence.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, it¡¯s rare for you to visit in person. I¡¯m ttered," Shen Bixin, dressed in a long skirt, her demeanor gentle and refined, stood up to greet him.


    Despite her slightly haggard appearance, she was still the same elegant and beautifuldy with a schrly and serene aura as before.


    "Miss Shen is too courteous. I should be the one feeling ttered," Lan Chang''an responded with polite small talk.


    He understood that given Shen Bixin''s current status and her engagement, she was breaking protocol by meeting with a male Foundation Establishment cultivator. She must have been mindful of the favor he did in helping treat her illness in the past.


    However, on the surface, Lan Chang''an had only assisted in the treatment back then and had received properpensation.


    Afterward, the VIP token from the Tengxing Merchant Association that Shen Bixin had gifted him had also been quite beneficial, effectively repaying the favor.


    "This time, I¡¯m here to acquire some materials on behalf of a Fake-Dan senior..." Lan Chang''an brought up the reason for his visit after some idle chat.


    "These materials, quite a few of them are of the third rank, the difficulty is not low," Shen Bixin said, contemting.


    "If I leverage the association''s higher-ups and Song Lang''swork, it might take about half a year to gather everything."[1]


    After Shen Bixin¡¯s engagement to Song Wenshu, the Tengxing Merchant Association¡¯s ability to source items in Liaoyuan Immortal City had improved significantly.


    In the past, this level of efficiency would not have been possible.


    Even so, it would require considerable effort on Shen Bixin¡¯s part to fulfill this request.


    "I appreciate the trouble, Miss Shen. If this matteres to fruition, I will owe you a favor," Lan Chang''an promised, recognizing the implication behind her words.


    Owing a favor in exchange for elerating the progress of his body refinement technique to quasi-third-rank was a fair deal.


    If the war came to Liang Kingdom, there might not be another chance to repay the favor.


    "That¡¯s exactly what I was hoping for, Fellow Daoist Lan," Shen Bixin replied with a bright smile, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction.


    ...


    [1] Lang=Darling, basically.


    3k words chappy

 Chapter 187: Trading Prospects

    Chapter 187: Trading Prospects


    Seeing that Shen Bixin was so pleased with the oue, Lan Chang''an was somewhat surprised.


    "Oh? Could it be that Miss Shen has some specific needs at the moment?"


    "Not at the moment."


    Shen Bixin pursed her lips and smiled, praising, "Fellow Daoist Lan has a steadfast character and unwavering resolve. You are a friend I can trust."


    "Simply having you owe me a favor is more than satisfactory for me."


    Watching Shen Bixin''s smiling face, Lan Chang''an felt a strange sensation in his heart.


    He pondered: We don''t have a particrly deep rtionship. How can she be so sure of my character? It shouldn''t be based just on hearsay.


    It seemed to Lan Chang''an that Shen Bixin''s exnation was not the whole story; there were likely other considerations at y.That said, Lan Chang''an had always kept a low profile, focusing diligently on his cultivation without entangling himself in external affairs. This,bined with his reputation as ate bloomer, had earned him a favorable standing in the eyes of others.


    Even his nickname, "Turtle Talisman Master," was more of a light-hearted jest without any real malice behind it.


    Considering that Shen Bixin was already a betrothed woman, Lan Chang''an didn''t linger. He promptly took his leave.


    As he rose to depart, Shen Bixin suddenly asked, "Fellow Daoist Lan, you seem to have some connections with Huanglong Mountain?"


    "Huanglong Mountain? We have had some dealings, but nothing particrly close," Lan Chang''an replied.


    Huanglong Mountain¡¯s Immortal Ji and Fu Dong had visited Little Turtle Peak in the past, and Huanglong Mountain had helped Lan Chang''an gather materials. These interactions were not hidden from those with a keen eye.


    "There''s a recent rumor that Huanglong Immortal is gravely ill and may not survive more than a year or two," Shen Bixin shared some information.


    "Huanglong Immortal is gravely ill?" Lan Chang''an was taken aback and did some quick calctions.


    It had been about fourteen or fifteen years since Fu Xuemei formed her Core.


    The once number one loose cultivator in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world was indeed nearing the end of his lifespan.


    Due to various factors, Huanglong Immortal¡¯s lifespan was a hundred years shorter than the theoretical lifespan of a True-Dan cultivator.


    "Huanglong Immortal has had a glorious life, reigning over the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom for centuries, earning respect from all major sects and families. His life has been one of great achievement," Lan Chang''an spoke with respect.


    During the peak of Huanglong Immortal''s fame, Lan Chang''an had not yet embarked on his cultivation journey in this life.


    They were not from the same era.


    As such, Lan Chang''an had only heard of him but never had direct contact with Huanglong Immortal.


    "If Huanglong Immortal passes away, certain forces may seize the opportunity to target his lineage. Fellow Daoist Lan, you should be careful then."


    "Thank you for the reminder, Miss Shen."


    Lan Chang''an understood the underlying message in Shen Bixin''s words and cupped his hands in farewell before flying away from the Tengxing Merchant Association''s residence.


    Shen Bixin watched his departing figure, lost in thought, recalling the moment when she was rescued and saw a glimmer of hope in her desperate situation.


    She had a hunch that this low-profile and unppable "Turtle Talisman Master" was no ordinary person.


    Today''s bets might have to wait until a future day to be verified.


    ...


    Three monthster.


    News from the Feng Kingdom battlefield spread throughout the Liang Kingdom, causing a stir.


    By this time, the general cultivators were only just learning about the Liang Kingdom sects'' defeat.


    Those in the middle and upper echelons had been aware of the rted intelligence for some time.


    "The Nascent Soul True Monarch of me Departing Pce fought two enemy Nascent Soul cultivators and unfortunately lost, suffering injuries?"


    The mainstream information Lan Chang''an received from the outside world was, to put it mildly, a gross understatement of the truth.


    What had been a devastating and near-fatal defeat was described as a "narrow defeat."


    Low-level cultivators who didn''t know the details might even be misled into believing that the Supreme Elder of me Departing Pce was incredibly brave, barely losing to two Nascent Soul cultivators in a heroic battle.


    "me Departing Pce may not excel in warfare, but their control over the public opinion in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world is not bad at all." Lan Chang''an could understand this approach.


    In cultivation wars, both sides spread all kinds of false information to confuse and create panic.


    It was indeed necessary to control internal rumors and suppress those who spread unhelpful gossip.


    Besides the condition of the Nascent Soul True Monarch, the number of casualties among Core Formation and Foundation Establishment cultivators was also partially concealed.


    These details couldn¡¯t be hidden from those in power within various factions, but as long as they could stabilize the majority of the lower and middle-tier cultivators, the upper echelons of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects would have achieved their goal.


    Regarding the war news, the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain had a private meeting.


    Fairy Shi, who had her own information channels, mentioned that the Liang Kingdom sects suffered a disastrous defeat, with losses greater than what was being reported externally.


    She spected that the Liang Kingdom sects would likely cease their invasion and retreat to their own borders to recuperate.


    "Let¡¯s hope the war ends soon and the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world quickly returns to stability," Ye Fei said expectantly.


    Due to the ongoing war, many sect cultivators were sent to the frontlines, leading to a noticeable decline inw and order throughout the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    In recent years, Wuqi Mountain''s business had suffered greatly.


    "Let¡¯s hope so," Lan Chang''an said, though he knew that in the not-too-distant future, the mes of war might very well reach the Liang Kingdom.


    ...


    As the news of the war spread,munication between Jin Yun Valley and the outside world returned to normal.


    Over the next two months, Lan Chang''an received two letters from Zhao Tan''er.


    One was a message directly from Zhao Tan''er herself.


    The other was a letter sent from the frontlines by Zhao Siyao.


    In her letter, Zhao Siyao mentioned that she had already withdrawn from the battlefield and was on her way back to Jin Yun Valley in the Liang Kingdom.


    She briefly described the war, and despite the few words, Lan Chang''an could feel the intensity of the battles.


    "Thanks to Fellow Daoist Lan, I narrowly escaped death. By teaming up with Senior Brother Zhang Tieshan, we were fortunate to kill a Fake-Dan Immortal from the enemy nation. Due to this significant contribution, we were both seriously injured but were among the first to be withdrawn..."


    "Killing a Fake-Dan Immortal?" Lan Chang''an''s heart skipped a beat.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s description was very reserved, and given the tacit understanding between them, it was clear that she hadn''t revealed the origin of the treasure talisman.


    If that treasure talisman was activated, outsiders would only assume it to be a normal third-rank talisman.


    For ate-stage Foundation Establishment elite from a sect, acquiring a third-rank talisman by chance wasn''t too far-fetched.


    A single third-rank talisman had little appeal to a True-Dan Immortal.


    "Under normal circumstances, Zhao Siyao alone wouldn''t have been able to kill a Fake-Dan cultivator using that treasure talisman. Zhang Tieshan must have had some means of threatening a Fake-Dan cultivator," Lan Chang''an pondered.


    At the end of the letter, Zhao Siyao expressed her hope that once she and Zhang Tieshan returned to the sect and recovered from their injuries, Lan Chang''an could visit them for a gathering.


    After recovering, Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan nned to focus entirely on their cultivation, with the goal of achieving Core Formation.


    From the sharpening of the battlefield, Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan had gained a lot, making their cultivation progress smoother.


    "In a number of years, some of the friends I¡¯ve made in this life might reach the level of True-Dan Immortals," Lan Chang''an smiled as he put away the letter.


    Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan were both at a simr cultivation level, each at the ninth level of the Foundation Establishment stage.


    However, it would still take them some years to reach the peak of thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    Besides these two friends, Lan Chang''an¡¯s other associates, like Fairy Shi and the friendly connections he had with Song Wenshu and Zhou Qingxuan, were also at simr stages.


    Reaching thete stage of Foundation Establishment was already a significant achievement, outpacing most of their peers.


    However, the step to Core Formation was even harder.


    Manyte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators struggled for decades without sess, or they could only achieve a Fake-Dan, which extended their lifespan by just over a hundred years, leaving them stuck at that level for life.


    The Fake-Dan was essentially seen as a "half-step Core Formation" that many True-Dan cultivators did not recognize.


    "These old friends might have a reasonable chance at achieving a Fake Dan, but how many of them could truly form a True Dan? I wonder if even one or two might seed?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered the future, unsure if he would have the chance to witness it himself.


    Forming a True Dan was a monumental achievement that could elevate one to the upper echelons of any major power in the Great Qing cultivation world.


    ...


    A monthter.


    Lan Chang''an received word from the Tengxing Merchant Association and made a trip to Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    This time, when he visited the association''s residence, he did not see Shen Bixin.


    Instead, he was greeted by an Elder of the association at the peak ofte-stage Foundation Establishment, who was a direct senior rtive of Shen Bixin.


    "Finally got the materials."


    An hourter, Lan Chang''an left Liaoyuan Immortal City with an extra bulging storage pouch hanging from his waist.


    The entire transaction process went smoothly.


    Lan Chang''an purchased the third-rank spirit sand, top-grade puppets, and quasi-third-rank puppet materials at market price.


    Since these were basic materials, they were not excessively expensive, but the purchase still cost him over ten thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    Given that he left immediately, Lan Chang''an didn''t conceal his identity.


    "Nobody¡¯s following me. The Tengxing Merchant Association¡¯s reputation is quite reliable."


    Even after flying hundreds of li away from Liaoyuan Immortal City, that was the case. Lan Chang''an silently nodded in satisfaction.


    During the flight, he frequently used the second life of the Nine Seal Stele to scan his surroundings, confirming that there were no behind him.


    In rtive terms, the transaction amount was significant enough to attract attention for a typical mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    It wasn''t that Lan Chang''an had be reckless; rather, the current situation was different from before.


    Risk and strength are inversely rted.


    The methods Lan Chang''an had disyed to protect himself were far beyond those of a typical mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The strongest individual in the Tengxing Merchant Association was only a Fake-Dan cultivator.


    At most, this transaction might attract the attention of a Fake-Dan cultivator or a group ofte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    In the current special circumstances, as long as his own secrets weren¡¯t exposed, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind taking on some controble risks to speed up his progress.


    ...


    After returning to Wuqi Mountain, Lan Chang''an ensured that the quasi-third-rank mountain-protecting formation was operating stably.


    Going forward, he focused part of his efforts on advancing the "Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual" and practicing with puppets.


    "Third-rank spirit sand really lives up to its reputation..."


    In the secret room of Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an soaked in a medicinal bath mixed with various colors of spirit sand, his muscles swelling as crystalline patterns resembling cloud-like stones appeared on the surface of his skin.


    A tingling, burning sensation spread across his body.


    Using third-rank spirit sand for the first time in his cultivation, Lan Chang''an finally felt a slow but steady improvement in the "Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual," which had been stagnant for years.

 Chapter 188: How to Repay

    Chapter 188: How to Repay


    Half a yearter.


    In the secret room on Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an formed a hand seal, casting the Puppet Control Technique. The humanoid leather-armored puppet lying on the ground suddenly flipped nimbly to its feet.


    The puppet''s eyes gleamed sharply. It was equipped with a longbow and quiver on its back, with a short sword strapped to its waist.


    Drawing the longbow, a silver-gray arrow wrapped in a whirlwind of blue wind energy materialized. The bowstring crackled with arcs of electricity, emitting a surge of spiritual energy that would make even ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator wary.


    Swish!


    The arrow shot forward like a streak of lightning, piercing through a foot-thick block of second-rank raw ore, with the remaining force absorbed by the chamber''s protective restrictions.


    "Truly worthy of being a top-grade second-rank offensive puppet."A pleased expression crossed Lan Chang''an''s face as he inspected the bow-wielding puppet, confirming its sessful creation.


    After acquiring the necessary materials, Lan Chang''an spent the next six months focused on improving his puppetry skills. Today, he sessfully refined a top-grade second-rank puppet.


    Of course, top-grade second-rank was still within the second-rank range, but the quality was at the pinnacle of that rank.


    In theory, this puppet was equivalent to ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator at their peak.


    However, under normal circumstances, a puppet''sbat power is less than that of a cultivator. After all, a puppet is a lifeless tool, whereas human cultivators have the advantages of intelligence, mastery of techniques and spells, and the use of talismans and other external items.


    Nevertheless, Lan Chang''an''s strong spiritual sense and advanced attainments in the Puppet Control Technique gave him confidence that this puppet could rival an experiencedte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Moreover, this archer puppet was designed with a focus on maximizing offense at the cost of defense, making it a formidable threat to most ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    This was especially true for ambushes and secret attacks.


    "If I had seven or eight of these archer puppets, a coordinated volley could seriously injure or even kill a Fake-Dan cultivator."


    Lan Chang''an considered the possibilities as he stored the puppet away.


    However, he didn''t have enough materials on hand to make that many. Crafting puppets was a time-consuming process, and the higher the rank, the longer it took.


    ...


    "A hundred and thirty-five years old."


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an emerged from seclusion, noticing that another year of his lifespan had slipped away.


    Unknowingly, he had already spent sixty or seventy years cultivating on Wuqi Mountain.


    His maid, Lan Rou, had already grown from a graceful young girl into a mature beautiful woman nearing her thirties.


    This was despite her regr use of beauty-preserving methods.


    "By my estimation, Fellow Daoist Zhao and Fellow Daoist Zhang should be almost fully recovered by now." Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    About three months ago, Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan had returned to Jin Yun Valley, but their injuries had not yet healed and they needed to recuperate and deal with some aftermath.


    Lan Chang''an had agreed with Zhao Siyao in their letters that they would meet up once she returned.


    He nned to visit his two friends who had narrowly escaped death sometime soon.


    Zhao Siyao had initially wanted to visit Wuqi Mountain herself, but Lan Chang''an had politely declined in his reply.


    Given Zhao Siyao''s cultivation level and status, visiting a loose cultivator like him while still recovering might raise some eyebrows.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want anyone to associate the use of the "third-rank talisman" by Zhao Siyao with him.


    Under normal circumstances, a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator would be incapable of crafting a third-rank talisman.


    Even though Lan Chang''an possessed the spiritual power of his previous life and the skills of a third-rank talisman master, he still couldn''t aplish that.


    This was because crafting talismans required a corresponding level of magical power.


    The gap in magical power between Foundation Establishment and Core Formation was simply too vast.


    For a Fake-Dan cultivator who was also a talisman master, crafting a third-rank talisman was not unusual.


    Ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator might manage to craft one by chance, but it would require exceptional talent ande at a significant cost, making it hardly worthwhile.


    ...


    Ten dayster.


    In a tranquil waterside cave mansion within Jin Yun Valley.


    Four Foundation Establishment cultivators¡ªtwo men and two women¡ªsat across from each other.


    The twote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators seated at the head were Zhang Tieshan and Zhao Siyao, each exuding a faint sinister aura.


    Zhang Tieshan''s killing aura was especially pronounced; his ughter on the frontlines had clearly imed many enemy lives for himself.


    The killing aura surrounding Zhao Siyao was much lighter inparison.


    Where she had once appeared as a serene, ethereal beauty, there was now a sharp, steely glint in her eyes.


    Lan Chang''an had to admit that cultivation wars could be an excellent tempering experience for cultivators.


    Facing death could help them squeeze out every bit of potential, even breaking through their own limits.


    The key, of course, was surviving.


    "Having narrowly escaped death, good fortune surely awaits you. After this ordeal, the paths of both Fellow Daoist Zhao and Fellow Daoist Zhang might be even smoother." Lan Chang''an offered some auspicious words.


    "Thank you for your kind words, Fellow Daoist Lan. Let¡¯s hope that both I and Fellow Daoist Zhao will enjoy such fortune when reaching for Core Formation."


    Zhang Tieshan''s voice was hearty, his darkened face still bearing traces of scars.


    Zhao Siyao smiled softly, her brows gently arched as she asionally nced at her old friend in white, remaining mostly quiet during this reunion.


    Although his figure was one she couldn''t be more familiar with, her clear and gentle gaze held a kind of admiration, as if she were seeing him for the first time.


    "Uncle Lan, if the battlefield is so effective, why didn¡¯t you listen to Tan''er back then and follow..." Zhao Tan''er giggled, showing her pearly white teeth.


    "Tan''er, don''t be rude! You¡¯re already this old and still don''t know how to be more reserved." Zhao Siyao''s expression changed slightly as she sternly interrupted her disciple.


    Zhao Tan''er stuck out her tongue, not daring to say anything more.


    Though she was usually lively and bold, asionally speaking out of turn, she was still afraid of her master.


    "It¡¯s no matter. Tan''er is straightforward by nature and means no harm." Lan Chang''an waved it off.


    In the cultivation world, there were a few cultivators who, despite living for hundreds or even thousands of years, retained a childlike simplicity, as if they would never "mature."


    It wasn''t that they were truly naive or unchanging; rather, they had found a state of being that was in harmony with their true selves.


    Such cultivators experienced no mental exhaustion, were less prone to external demonic influences, and often had a greater advantage in their state of mind, a quality known as the "Heart of a Child."


    Zhao Tan''er might not fully embody the Heart of a Child, but she had simr traits.


    Lan Chang''an recalled that her breakthrough to mid-stage Foundation Establishment had been smoother than that of others with simr high-grade spiritual roots.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, it seems your magical power is nearing thete Foundation Establishment stage. You were ate bloomer back then, but you¡¯ve clearly maintained your momentum, surpassing many of our peers."


    Zhang Tieshan observed Lan Chang''an with a hint of surprise.


    "I¡¯ve simply maintained a good mindset, built a solid foundation, and didn''tck spirit stones for resources." Lan Chang''an responded modestly.


    "Do you feel confident about advancing to thete Foundation Establishment stage?" Zhao Siyao asked.


    "I¡¯ve alreadymissioned the refining of a breakthrough pill. I have about a thirty to forty percent chance." Lan Chang''an replied thoughtfully.


    "Thirty to forty percent?" Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan exchanged nces and smiled without saying anything.


    After knowing him for over a century, the two of them had a good understanding of Lan Chang''an''s character.


    If he imed a thirty to forty percent chance, the reality was likely closer to seventy or eighty percent.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan may cultivate slowly, but if you continue progressing steadily, you¡¯ll be much like the rare evergreen ancient trees of the cultivation world." Zhang Tieshanplimented him.


    "Evergreen ancient trees? The kind that can keep growing as long as their rings continue to expand?" Zhao Tan''er asked curiously, her voice clear as a bell.


    "How could a loose cultivator like myselfpare to an evergreen ancient tree?"


    Lan Chang''an''s heart skipped a beat.


    When the evergreen ancient tree was mentioned, he felt a subtle and profound resonance within his spirit.


    "But I do wish that everyone here can have an immortal path as evergreen as those ancient trees."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s words brought a chorus of agreement from the others, making the atmosphere even more rxed.


    ...


    As the sun began to set, Lan Chang''an stood to take his leave.


    The three sect Foundation Establishment cultivators apanied him to the entrance of the cave mansion.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, let me see you off." Zhao Siyao suggested.


    "Alright." Lan Chang''an nced at her and agreed.


    Knowing Zhao Siyao¡¯s straightforward nature, she likely had something she wanted to discuss with him privately rather than engaging in polite small talk.


    Zhao Tan''er exchanged a nce with Zhang Tieshan, and the two of them wisely chose not to follow.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao, both dressed in white, looked like a pair of cultivators bound by fate as they flew side by side out of Jin Yun Valley.


    "Great!" Zhao Tan''er cheered quietly, watching the two seniors leave with a look of satisfaction on her face.


    Outside Jin Yun Valley.


    A cool mountain breeze blew, carrying a slight chill.


    Zhao Siyao, wearing a phoenix hairpin and flowing immortal robes, her figure tall and graceful, looked like a painting with her serene and otherworldly beauty.


    Along the way, the two of them asionally met their gazes and smiled slightly, tacitly not breaking the silence.


    It wasn¡¯t until they had flown several hundred li out of Jin Yun Valley that Zhao Siyao slowed her pace, her clear, bright eyes settling on Lan Chang''an''s face as she finally spoke.


    "Thank you, if not for that talisman, Siyao would never be able to see fellow Daoist Lan again..."


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, what talisman? Howe I don''t understand?" Lan Chang''an responded with a look of puzzlement.


    Zhao Siyao paused, her gaze lingering on his familiar face for several breaths.


    Then, she didn''t press further. Instead, she suddenly smiled, her face lighting up with a radiant glow as she sighed softly.


    "Lan Chang''an, such a great favor, how do you expect me to repay you?"


    It was the first time in over a hundred years of knowing each other that Zhao Siyao addressed him by his full name.


    "If we''re talking about favors, I wouldn''t have been able to sessfully reach Foundation Establishment without your help back then. During the pill-refining at Huanglong Immortal City, you spoke up for me when facing Fu Xuemei. You also stood guard by my side when I established my Foundation."


    Lan Chang''an replied sincerely.


    From his Qi-Refining period to the Foundation Establishment Realm, Lan Chang''an had enjoyed rtive stability in his cultivationrgely due to the support and protection of his friends from the sect.


    Their shared battles in the ck Fog Mountain Range, facing life and death together, and the two times she assisted him in refining Foundation Establishment Pills¡­ all these experiences had forged a deep trust and mutual understanding between them.


    It was precisely because of this that, years ago, he had secretly gifted her that treasure talisman.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, there''s no need to dwell on it. But if you insist on repaying me, then I hope Fellow Daoist Zhao can achieve Core Formation soon so that I can have a big thigh to grab on to."


    At this, Zhao Siyao couldn¡¯t help butugh, her icy gaze softening as if the winter snow had begun to melt.


    Afterward, they talked about lighter topics and reminisced about old times.


    As night fell and the moonlight bathed them in its soft glow, the two of them, dressed in white, seemed even more ethereal.


    "I heard that you have a good rtionship with Fairy Shi?" Zhao Siyao asked casually.


    "It''s not bad, we¡¯ve been neighbors for many years and get along well." Lan Chang''an responded candidly.


    Their rtionship hadn¡¯t escaped the notice of those who paid attention.


    Zhao Siyao pursed her lips slightly, remaining silent for a few breaths before nodding.


    "When does Fellow Daoist Lan intend to tie the knot and marry Fairy Shi?"


    Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    "The cultivation world is ever-changing. The Foundation Establishment Realm only gives one a foothold, but it doesn¡¯tpare to the magical powers and magical treasures of Core Formation Immortals. How could I dare to take a wife and have children at this stage?"


    "Fellow Daoist Lan thinks of danger even in times of peace, this is not a bad thing to say." Zhao Siyao smiled faintly.


    She then asked, "And what if you were to achieve a Fake Dan one day?"


    In truth, with Lan Chang''an''s age and qualifications, it would be a blessing of ten lifetimes to be able to form a fake Dan.


    This was a hypothetical question that was somewhat ttering to Lan Chang''an.


    "If I achieve a Fake-Dan, then I, Lan, would find a female cultivator with whom I have mutual affection, marry, have children, and establish a cultivation family to properly nurture my descendants." Lan Chang''an answered honestly.


    "Mm." Zhao Siyao nced at him, making no furtherment.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, there''s no need to see me off any further. I wish you sess in your Core Formation."


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, the road is long. May your path be as evergreen as those ancient trees."


    They shared onest look, holding each other¡¯s gaze for several breaths, neither hiding the appreciation in their eyes.


    The figures in white passed each other, flying off in different directions.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    At Little Turtle Peak on Wuqi Mountain.


    "This is the first time in my life that I, Lan, have been invited to participate in the event of a True-Dan Immortal - even though it''s a funeral ceremony."


    Lan Chang''an held a ck-and-white invitation in his hand, looking at the elegantly poised Fairy Shi beside him.


    "So it''s confirmed that Huanglong Immortal has passed away?"


    "Invitations for the funeral have been sent out far and wide, so it¡¯s unlikely to be false." Fairy Shi''s voice was warm and gentle.


    "Manrong, should I attend Huanglong Immortal¡¯s funeral or not?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered aloud, seemingly unable to decide.

 Chapter 189: Cruel Reality

    Chapter 189: Cruel Reality


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong were both included among those invited to the funeral at Huanglong Mountain.


    In recent years, Lan Chang''an had maintained a rtively good rtionship with the Huanglong Mountain lineage, at least from an outsider''s perspective.


    Fairy Shi had previously coborated closely with Huanglong Mountain, even meeting and conversing with Huanglong Immortal in the past.


    A funeral is considered a significant ceremony in the cultivation world, especially for a Core Formation Immortal. Many wille to pay their respects.


    Under these circumstances, failing to attend could be seen ascking in basic courtesy.


    "Manrong is going to make a trip, and will also use the opportunity to procure some resources. With the recent increase in traffic at Huanglong Immortal City, the uing auction will likely be of a higher caliber than usual."


    "Chang''an, you can decide for yourself. Even if you don''t go, I doubt Huanglong Mountain would hold it against you."


    Shi Manrong understood Lan Chang''an''s concerns.There was a possibility of disturbances during Huanglong Immortal''s funeral, such as enemies of Huanglong Mountain seizing the opportunity to cause trouble.


    Attending the funeral could be interpreted as "lending support" to Huanglong Mountain.


    However, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong were ultimately outsiders. As long as they didn''t forcefully stand up for Huanglong Mountain, they shouldn''t attract any serious trouble.


    Huanglong Immortal had cultivated numerous connections over the years, and the funeral was expected to draw many invitees, including cultivators from various sects who had good rtions with Huanglong Mountain.


    "Since you n to go, I might as well apany you, so we can look out for each other. However, we should first gather more information about the current situation at Huanglong Mountain."


    Lan Chang''an nodded in agreement.


    If Shi Manrong wasn''t nning to attend, he might have found an excuse to decline and visitter to pay his respects.


    But given that they were both on Wuqi Mountain, if Shi Manrong attended while he, who had received favors from Huanglong Mountain, didn''t even dare to attend the funeral, it would make him appear cold-hearted.


    If Huanglong Mountain managed to weather this storm, they might develop a negative impression of him, and his reputation among the wider cultivation world could also suffer.


    Wuqi Mountain had its share of well-informed subordinate cultivators.


    Once the peak masters gave the order, information was quickly gathered and delivered.


    "During the year before Huanglong Immortal''s death, it was rumored that he had been bedridden, not leaving Huanglong Mountain even once."


    "Huanglong Immortal''s eldest disciple, ''Ji Yifeng,'' has visited many of his master''s old friends and several major forces over the past two years, but was met with many closed doors."


    "Half a month ago, ''Sanhu Immortal'' arrived at Huanglong Immortal City again, suspected to have been hired by someone, likely to the detriment of Huanglong Mountain."


    ...


    As Lan Chang''an sorted through the information, an unexpected guest arrived at Wuqi Mountain.


    A powerful presence belonging to a Fake-Dan cultivator descended from the rolling storm clouds above.


    "Peak masters of Wuqi Mountain,e out and face me!"


    A fierce-looking bald man in a purple robended between the three main peaks, his voice booming like a massive bell.


    "A Fake-Dan Immortal!"


    "He''s He Yuanwu! The fourth disciple of Huanglong Immortal¡ªwhat''s he doing here at Wuqi Mountain..."


    The affiliated cultivators on Wuqi Mountain were filled with dread. Facing the aggressive He Yuanwu, they hid in the shadows, not daring to make a sound.


    He Yuanwu was known for his ferocity and his habit of bullying the weak. He was not someone who was easy to deal with.


    "Greetings, Immortal He."


    Lan Chang''an, Shi Manrong, and Ye Fei, the three peak masters, came out to greet him.


    "What brings Immortal He to our mountain? If you have any requests, we can discuss them on the main peak."


    Shi Manrong maintained a dignified posture and smiled lightly.


    She had dealt with He Yuanwu in the past during her previous coborations with Huanglong Mountain.


    "No need."


    He Yuanwu''s gaze swept over the three peak masters, lingering slightly on Shi Manrong and Lan Chang''an, while almostpletely ignoring Ye Fei.


    "I''m here to warn you not to attend Huanglong Mountain''s funeral. If you do, you''ll bear the consequences!"


    This statement was delivered via a voice transmission, his tone overbearing, carrying an unmistakable threat.


    Hearing this, Shi Manrong''s expression changed, but she did not dare to openly defy him.


    "He Yuanwu is a good person." Lan Chang''an''s heart was delighted.


    He wasn''t particrly eager to attend the funeral at Huanglong Mountain. He preferred to avoid trouble when possible.


    But he couldn''t find a sensible excuse.


    Now, with He Yuanwu''s tant threat, it provided Lan Chang''an with the perfect reason to stay away.


    "Dare I ask Immortal He, is something about to change at Huanglong Mountain?" Lan Chang''an asked respectfully, cupping his hands.


    He had crossed paths with He Yuanwu before, although it was with the identity of Brother Cheng.


    Officially, this was the first time Lan Chang''an and He Yuanwu were interacting.


    "This doesn''t concern you. Don''t ask too many questions!"


    He Yuanwu shot a cold nce at Lan Chang''an, then his figure turned into a gust of ck wind and sand, disappearing into the sky.


    ...


    After sending off this ferocious god, the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain were left with sour expressions.


    The three of them gathered at Little Turtle Peak, displeased by He Yuanwu''s behavior.


    "After Fu Xuemei formed her Core, He Yuanwu kept a low profile for over a decade, not daring to show his face around Huanglong Mountain. Now that Huanglong Immortal is gone, he''s brazenly jumping back into the fray."


    Shi Manrong''s expression carried a hint of sarcasm.


    "As a traitor to Huanglong Mountain, he likely fears the rise of the Huanglong Mountain lineage under Fu Xuemei''s leadership more than any other force."


    Lan Chang''an could easily imagine that He Yuanwu was probably obstructing not just him and Shi Manrong, but many other cultivators as well.


    Most likely, his targets were all loose cultivators.


    "Fairy Shi, perhaps we should wait until the situation stabilizes before going to pay our respects." Lan Chang''an suggested via a voice transmission.


    "That seems to be our best option."


    Fairy Shi sighed. She didn''t dare to cross paths with He Yuanwu, an Immortal, in the case he held a grudge, the consequences would be hard to predict.


    That very day, Lan Chang''an sent a letter to Huanglong Mountain, expressing his condolences.


    In the letter, he exined that he had been threatened by a Fake-Dan cultivator and was too afraid to visit Huanglong Mountain in the short term.


    This approach was in line with his persona and it was hard to fault him.


    Lan Chang''an and Huanglong Mountain had only turned on good terms in recent years, with no real friendship or significant exchange of interests.


    The cultivation world was a ce where the strong ruled and the weak perished.


    Lan Chang''an staying out of the fray without kicking them while they were down was already better than many other cultivators would have done.


    ...


    Ten dayster.


    Shocking news came from Huanglong Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an opened a letter from Zheng Centipede, and his face changed as his mood fluctuated.


    ording to the letter, less than a third of the expected number of cultivators from all parties hade to the funeral ceremony of the Huanglong Immortal.


    Of the expected Core Formation Immortals, only two showed up, and fewer than ten Fake-Dan cultivators attended.


    Given Huanglong Immortal''s extensivework built over hundreds of years, the low attendance from high-level cultivators was surprising to Lan Chang''an.


    But that wasn''t the worst of it.


    There was another, more rming detail from the funeral.


    None of the major sects of the Liang Kingdom sent any high-ranking cultivators to offer their condolences.


    me Departing Pce only sent a single Foundation Establishment disciple to attend the funeral.


    Other sects sent at most a single Fake-Dan representative.


    "The Huanglong Mountain lineage is finished!"


    Reading halfway through the letter, Lan Chang''an''s heart sank as he already guessed what would happen next.


    The reality was even harsher than he had anticipated.


    ording to the letter:


    Before Huanglong Immortal''s death, he had made arrangements for his passing, and took the initiative to relinquish a significant portion of Huanglong Immortal City''s interests.


    The various factions in Huanglong Immortal City should have had no objections.


    After all, there was still a Core Formation Immortal present in Huanglong Immortal, and the Huang Dragon Beast retained its cultivation at the early stage of the third-rank.


    With peaceful negotiations, they could have shared the benefits without conflict.


    However.


    During thetter part of the funeral ceremony, former enemies of Huanglong Mountain, mostly those with personal grudges, collectivelyunched an attack.


    With no support from the higher-ups of any sect, Huanglong Mountain was isted and outnumbered, facing two to three times as many enemies.


    Of those attending the funeral, only a few were willing to fight to the death, while most, seeing how things were unfolding, seized the opportunity to leave.


    "Huanglong Immortal''s eldest disciple, Ji Yifeng, used a secret technique during the chaotic battle to hold off several Fake-Dan cultivators, sacrificing his life in the process..."


    "The Huang Dragon Beast fought desperately against a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, its fate unknown, though there are rumors of it being sted to death by the cultivator''s magical treasure."


    "With Huanglong Mountain''s efforts to cover her escape, Fu Xuemei managed to flee Huanglong Immortal City despite her serious injuries. Her whereabouts are currently unknown, and there doesn''t seem to be an organized pursuit."


    "The next morning, me Departing Pce''sw enforcement cultivators arrived. They took charge of the situation, mediating disputes, temporarily ''taking over'' Huanglong Mountain, maintaining order in Huanglong Immortal City, and eradicating evil-doers and looters."


    ...


    "me Departing Pce really knows how to show up at the right time."


    After finishing the letter, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but feel a deep sense of sorrow.


    Huanglong Mountain''s willingness to relinquish some of its interests might have allowed them to survive in ordinary times.


    However, with the Liang Kingdom''s sects suffering a major defeat and incurring heavy losses¡ªespecially me Departing Pce, which bore the brunt of it¡ªthings were different.


    In its heyday, the sect might not have cared for the resources of Huanglong Mountain, or rather, it wouldn''t have risked its reputation for them.


    But now, absorbing Huanglong Mountain''s resources could help me Departing Pce recover some of its strength.


    The only silver lining was that me Departing Pce, as the supreme power in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, still wanted to maintain some semnce of honor and didn''t personally take action.


    By simply standing back and doing nothing, Huanglong Mountain found itself isted, with plenty of people eager to take advantage of the situation.


    Of course, Huanglong Mountain''s flourishing power over the past few centuries had made them many enemies, and now they were facing the consequences.


    The next evening, at the cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an had just finished a conversation with Fairy Shi.


    "This guy, why is he here again?" He gently stroked the smooth, fair skin of her back, his brows furrowing slightly.


    At that moment, a familiar Fake-Dan aura rapidly intruded into Wuqi Mountain.


    "Immortal He! How dare you trespass on the main peak!" Ye Fei''s voice rang out in shock and anger.


    A loud bang echoed as He Yuanwu, surrounded by the Core power of his Fake-Dan, violently shattered the formation protecting Little Pill Peak, which had not yet fully activated.


    "He Yuanwu, stop this!"


    By the time Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong had dressed and arrived at the scene, it was toote.


    Ye Fei was being held aloft like a chicken by He Yuanwu.


    "Immortal He, why have you captured Ye Fei?"


    Faced with the imposing presence of He Yuanwu, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong didn''t dare get too close and instead engaged him from a distance.


    "I have no intention of killing Herbalist Ye. I just need to take him away for a few days."


    He Yuanwu said calmly, showing no further hostility toward Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong.


    Both Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong were stronger, and their residences were protected by quasi-third-rank formations, making them much harder targets.


    "Why... why is it always me..."


    Ye Fei, under a restrictive spell, had a bitter expression on his face.


    This wasn''t the first or second time something like this had happened at Little Pill Peak.


    "Immortal He, could you at least tell us why you''re doing this?" Lan Chang''an had a feeling there was more to He Yuanwu''s actions.


    "It has nothing to do with you."


    He Yuanwu had no intention of exining, leaving only a final word before departing:


    "For the next couple of days, it''s best for Wuqi Mountain not to take in any outsiders, especially those who are seriously injured."


    With that, he stepped onto his flying light and swiftly left Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi exchanged helpless nces.


    "The feng shui of Little Pill Peak, isn''t there something wrong with it?"[1]


    Lan Chang''an surveyed the terrain and thought about the past events, his expression looked odd.


    As for Ye Fei, the best he could do was have the Earth Burrowing Rat memorize his scent and figure out a way to helpter.


    He Yuanwu would not dare to openly kill Ye Fei if he wanted to maintain his standing in the Liang Kingdom.


    Based on Lan Chang''an''s experience and intuition, Ye Fei''s life was likely not in immediate danger. At worst, he might lose some money or suffer a little.


    To better understand the situation, Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi headed over to Little Pill Peak to inspect the scene.


    [1] Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice that involves arranging the environment to harmonize with the natural energy (qi). It is believed to influence well-being, fortune, and spiritual bnce.

 Chapter 190: The True Dan’s Request

    Chapter 190: The True Dan¡¯s Request


    At Little Pill Peak, it wasn''t just Ye Fei who had been taken. All the aged, high-quality medicinal herbs on the peak had also been swept away.


    The other items, however, remained untouched¡ªlikely due to ack of time.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong exchanged nces, their minds turning with possible exnations.


    There were two main possibilities behind He Yuanwu''s actions:


    "First, He Yuanwu might need Ye Fei to treat a patient whose condition must remain hidden."


    Ye Fei had resided at Wuqi Mountain for several decades, and his medical skills had gained some renown in the surrounding areas. Particrly, his sess in saving the eldest daughter of the Tengxing Merchant Association had greatly boosted his reputation.


    "Second, He Yuanwu might want to prevent Ye Fei from treating someone, thus preemptively eliminating that possibility."


    Considering He Yuanwu''s parting words, Lan Chang''an leaned toward thetter exnation.Recently, He Yuanwu had been overtly targeting Huanglong Mountain.


    "ording to the intelligence, the remnants of the Huanglong Mountain lineage, after fleeing Huanglong Immortal City, haven''t been pursued on arge scale."


    "On one hand, me Departing Pce intervened to mediate and maintain order, making it difficult for those major forces to openly continue the pursuit."


    "On the other hand, with Huanglong Mountain''s lineage giving up their core interests, many private grudges were likely settled during that one battle. Continuing the pursuit would be unprofitable and could lead to a deadly bacsh."


    However, there were still a few cultivators unwilling to let the remnants of Huanglong Mountain go.


    He Yuanwu was a prime example.


    Having betrayed Huanglong Mountain, no one was more determined than him to prevent Fu Xuemei''s lineage from making aeback.


    ...


    "Could it be that a high-ranking member of Huanglong Mountain''s lineage, seriously injured, has sought refuge in this area?"


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong returned to the cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak, where they secretly began to discuss their countermeasures.


    "Huanglong Mountain had a decent rtionship with us in the past. Now that they''re weakened, if theye seeking help, we can simply tell the truth. It shouldn''t cause any conflict."


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong weren''t particrly worried about Huanglong Mountain.


    "On the contrary, He Yuanwu has a terrible reputation and could pose a potential threat to Wuqi Mountain." Lan Chang''an mused.


    He Yuanwu had unreasonably ¡°taken away¡± Herbalist Ye, and he might also take action against them for a certain reason.


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi had been spared mainly due to their strength and protective arrays¡ªquasi-third-rank formations¡ªbut also because their connections were far more extensive than Ye Fei''s.


    "These past years, He Yuanwu doesn''t seem to have joined any sect or organization?" Lan Chang''an asked to confirm.


    "No, he hasn''t."


    Shi Manrong shook her head. "After he betrayed Huanglong Mountain, he only temporarily allied with those opposing Huanglong Mountain. Once Fu Xuemei formed her True-Dan, that alliance naturally fell apart."


    "He Yuanwu has a bad reputation and an unpleasant personality. No respectablerge sect would want to take in a traitor like him. And smaller factions wouldn''t dare amodate him either."


    In the cultivation world, a person''s character and reputation were crucial factors for any faction when recruiting talents.


    For example, someone like Lan Chang''an, who was known as a "nice guy" and had valuable skills, would be wee in most factions.


    "Revelling against Huanglong Mountain hasn''t made life any better for He Yuanwu."


    Lan Chang''an chuckled. A Fake-Dan cultivator without strong backing was nothing to be afraid of.


    In recent years, He Yuanwu had mainly coborated withrge merchant associations and ck market forces.


    Essentially, he was still a loose cultivator.


    ...


    The next morning.


    An unremarkable spirit-horse-drawn carriage broke through the misty formations surrounding Wuqi Mountain.


    A hunched old servant, looking lifeless and weary, guided the reins while staring nkly at the three main peaks.


    "Young Master Dong, we''ve arrived at Wuqi Mountain. Which peak should we head to?"


    "I can''t trust the others, let''s go to Little Turtle Peak first."


    The man inside the carriage seemed to have already made up his mind and responded without hesitation.


    As the formation glowed, the carriage lifted smoothly into the air and headed directly for Little Turtle Peak.


    From inside the carriage, the faint sound of a woman''s pained groans could be heard, though it was muffled by a protective barrier, making it inaudible to the outside world.


    "Miss Lan, please inform Talisman Master Lan that I have urgent matters to discuss."


    A weary-looking middle-aged man, appearing around thirty or forty years old, showed his face from the carriage and handed over a token to the maid, Lan Rou.


    Lan Rou took the token and went inside to inform Lan Chang''an.


    "Brother Fu, pleasee in."


    Soon, a white-robed man with a gentle demeanor came out to greet the guest and opened the formation for him.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan."


    The middle-aged man, who was actually Fu Dong in disguise, breathed a sigh of relief as he greeted Lan Chang''an. Behind him, the servant drove the carriage into Little Turtle Peak.


    Through a gap in the carriage''s curtain, Lan Chang''an glimpsed a slender figure lying inside, seemingly unconscious.


    "Your sister''s situation, Lan knows a little about it. In order to avoid wasting time, I''ll let you know in advance: just yesterday, Herbalist Ye of Little Pill Peak, was taken captive by He Yuanwu." Lan Chang''an sighed deeply.


    The disguised middle-aged man was indeed Fu Dong, and the injured and unconscious woman inside the carriage was none other than Fu Xuemei.


    This was the first time the Little Turtle Peak had weed a True-Dan cultivator as a guest, even if they came lying down.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an met with Fu Dong, instructing the maid to keep her distance and activating the illusionary formation around Little Turtle Peak to shield them from prying eyes.


    "That beast, He Yuanwu! Even Huanglong Mountain''s old enemies wouldn''t pursue us this relentlessly."


    Fu Dong cursed angrily but quickly took a deep breath to calm himself, mindful of his unconscious sister.


    "My sister''s injuries can''t be dyed any longer. Fellow Daoist Lan, is there another skilled healer nearby?"


    "I''m afraid not."


    Lan Chang''an knew that relying on any half-baked practitioner would be futile in treating a True-Dan cultivator.


    Even if Ye Fei were still at Wuqi Mountain, he probably wouldn''t be able to do much.


    "Brother Lan''s wood nourishing technique is good at healing and nurturing wounds, can you take a look at my sister?"


    Fu Dong bit the bullet and suggested, seemingly treating it as ast-ditch effort.


    "Me? Where did you hear that rumor?" Lan Chang''an was momentarily taken aback, thenughed.


    He indeed knew some basic medical techniques, but he wasn''t a specialist.


    "Well... I heard it from Miss Shen of the Tengxing Merchant Association."


    Fu Dong''s eyes flickered as he forced an exnation.


    Lan Chang''an silently noted that while he had once treated Shen Bixin''s injuries, he hadn''t mentioned anything about the nurturing effect to her.


    Even if Shen Bixin knew, she wasn''t the type to gossip.


    Clearly, the information Fu Dong had was the result of Huanglong Mountain''s intelligence gathering.


    That was understandable, though. Huanglong Mountain investigating Lan Chang''an made sense.


    After all, Fu Xuemei had once traded a Foundation Establishment Pill with him, and their rtionship had been amicable since then. Huanglong Mountain had even considered recruiting Lan Chang''an.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, we''ve been betrayed and can''t find a suitable healer nearby. At least you''re someone we can trust."


    After speaking, Fu Dong bowed deeply.


    "Please, Talisman Master Lan, help save my young mistress."


    The hunched old servant brought the carriage to the edge of the pond, sping his hands together in a raspy plea.


    Lan Chang''an nced at the old servant and sensed the aura of someone nearing the end of their life.


    "Only a few days of lifespan left, yet still holding on... what a loyal servant!" He sighed inwardly.


    Ssh!


    The Profound Water Turtle, who had beenzily basking by the pond, instinctively shuddered when the old servant approached and quickly dove into the water.


    "Let''s head inside."


    Lan Chang''an felt a chill run down his spine as he looked at the old servant before finally nodding in agreement.


    The old servant visibly rxed, then nced at the Profound Water Turtle, which was peeking at him from the pond, and whispered approvingly:


    "Just by looking at this turtle''s attainments in its turtle breath ability, its master is no ordinary cultivator. We may have made the right choice after all."


    "Really?" Fu Dong''s eyes brightened with a glimmer of hope.


    Their private conversation was beyond Lan Chang''an''s hearing.


    Lan Chang''an led Fu Dong into the cave mansion, with the old servant driving the carriage inside.


    Perhaps because of Fu Xuemei''s severe injuries, Fu Dong didn''t move her out of the carriage.


    As the doors of the cave mansion closed, Lan Chang''an''s expression became solemn, his thoughts racing.


    He could hardly have imagined that this legendary figure, renowned throughout the region, woulde to Little Turtle Peak on the brink of death, seeking his help.


    If not for his ability to sense lifespan, he wouldn''t have been able to discern the truth of the situation.


    With only a few days left of his lifespan and such a terrible physical state, if he were a Foundation Establishment Cultivator, he would have already been lying on a hospital bed dying and falling into a mortal state.


    "Over a decade ago, after the great battle at Huanglong Mountain, Huanglong Immortal''s strength had already fallen to the early Core Formation stage, and now he''s even weaker..."


    "Xiang Jinglong might not know the extent of Fu Xuemei''s condition, or perhaps he has some suspicions, which is why he''s only acting behind the scenes."


    As for Huanglong Immortal faking his death to deceive others, Lan Chang''an wasn''t particrly surprised.


    He himself could have done the same in his previous life.


    After all, the fact that no top-level representatives from the major sects attended the funeral was telling.


    Facing an irreversible trend, Huanglong Immortal had no choice but to give up Huanglong Mountain and secretly preserve his true heir.


    ...


    "Let me be clear: I have very limited medical skills and no confidence whatsoever in treating a True-Dan cultivator." Lan Chang''an emphasized before taking any action.


    "No matter. As long as your wood-based technique has good healing properties, and with my guidance, there''s a decent chance of sess." The old servant smiled reassuringly.


    At this point, both sides understood each other well enough that they didn''t need to mince words.


    Lan Chang''an sighed, then stepped into the carriage, where he found the pale-faced Fu Xuemei, a True-Dan cultivator who looked as fragile as a ghost orchid.


    Even in a state of unconsciousness, with her eyes closed, Fu Xuemei''s beauty and aura surpassed that of most female cultivators in the world.


    Lan Chang''an took her pulse, feeling the cool, jade-like skin of her delicate wrist, faintly tinged with blue veins.


    Carefully, he probed with his Evergreen mana.


    In her prime, a True-Dan cultivator''s Core power would automatically repel foreign forces, capable of instantly shattering an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator to death.


    However, Fu Xuemei was now so weak that even amon Foundation Establishment cultivator could easily kill her.


    After a few moments of probing, Lan Chang''an''s expression grew grave, filled with doubt and concern.


    Fu Xuemei had sustained severe internal injuries, concentrated in her abdomen, where several types of True-Dan-level foreign energies were intertwined, and continued to wreak havoc.


    Fu Xuemei''s faint life force, along with several rare third-rank secret medicines, barely managed to keep the injuries in check, preventing further harm to her True-Dan.


    That area, apart from housing her True-Dan, was also connected to a specific organ of hers.


    Lan Chang''an quickly realized that Fu Xuemei had lost the ability to bear children.


    The damage there was irreversible.


    In a crisis, something had to be sacrificed.


    For a True-Dan cultivator, it was a choice between the True-Dan and that particr organ.


    This was likely a decision made by both Huanglong Immortal and Fu Xuemei on instinct.


    "Senior, why didn''t you treat her yourself? You would be far more reliable than an amateur like me."


    Lan Chang''an asked, though he already knew the answer.


    From his previous life''s perspective, he understood that, given the right circumstances, Huanglong Immortal, with the aid of secret medicines, could indeed save Fu Xuemei.


    "The technique I practice is powerful but not suited for healing."


    The old servant paused, then continued to exin.


    "More importantly, the enemy is watching from the shadows. I have unfinished business and only one chance to take action."


    "I see."


    Lan Chang''an nodded.


    Huanglong Immortal only had one chance to act.


    If he used it, he would die!


    If he used it to save someone, it would only bring Fu Xuemei back from the brink.


    Having just awakened, Fu Xuemei''s strength would be less than ten percent of her full power, and it would take at least a year or two for her to recover to her peak.


    If Huanglong Immortal rashly used his one chance to save her, they might both end up dead.


    Although Fu Xuemei''s injuries were severe, they weren''t fatal.


    If a skilled healer could treat her, it would be safer for Huanglong Immortal to retain his one chance to act.


    "Time is short, Little Friend Lan, please take action. After this is aplished, this old man will offer a gift of thanks."


    The old servant sped his hands together and bowed slightly.


    Looking at the hunched figure before him, Lan Chang''an recalled a time long ago, standing before the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, where he had dared not look directly at Huanglong Immortal, only daring to glimpse him out of the corner of his eye, fearing any attention.


    But today, this legendary Core Formation Immortal, now on the brink of death, was earnestly requesting his help.


    "Given the circumstances, I have no choice."


    Lan Chang''an took a deep breath, as if steadying his nerves.


    His hands trembled slightly as he channeled his Evergreen mana, pressing them against Fu Xuemei''s abdomen through her pale blue dress.


    This was a grave injury, one that even a Foundation Establishment-level healer would need to approach with extreme caution, leaving no room for error¡ªthere could be no attempt at treating her from a distance.


    "Ah~!"


    As soon as his hands made contact, a pained expression crossed Fu Xuemei''s face, as if it was tearing her heart and lungs apart, herplexion grew paler and paler.

 Chapter 191: Huanglong’s Final Wish

    Chapter 191: Huanglong¡¯s Final Wish


    "Sister..."


    Fu Xuemei''s painful reaction caused Fu Dong''s heart to leap into his throat.


    The hunched old servant''s eyelid twitched, but he remained silent.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an had intentionally applied pressure, causing the female True Dan cultivator pain.


    It wasn¡¯t because he bore a grudge and sought to take revenge on Fu Xuemei.


    Treating a severely injured True Dan female cultivator was already stressful enough.


    Let alone with a legendary Core Formation big brother watching intently from the side, like a tiger eyeing its prey.


    For any Foundation Establishment cultivator, this situation was akin to walking on thin ice, with no room for error, a single mistake could lead to a disaster with unimaginable consequences.Having just struck out, Lan Chang''an¡¯s state of mind and control over his energy couldn¡¯t be too perfect, so showing a slight w was appropriate.


    "No need to be nervous."


    The old servant''s voice was calm, possessing a soothing power that naturally settled one''s mind.


    "Alright."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, calming his emotions. The hand ced on Fu Xuemei''s abdomen gradually rxed.


    Her injuries were indeed severe, and her body was exceedingly weak, with a massive loss of vitality.


    Fortunately, a potent secret medicine had stabilized her, so her life was not in immediate danger.


    "Her injuries aren''t an urgent matter. The strength of Evergreen mana itself is effective enough, no need to sacrifice any lifespan."


    "The difficulty lies in this: near Fu Xuemei''s abdomen, several strands of True Dan energy are interwoven. When healing, I must avoid them at all costs, without disturbing these forces."


    With his knowledge from his previous life regarding True Dan cultivators,bined with his Evergreen Technique, Lan Chang''an was actually more suitable for this task than even the herbalist, Ye Fei.


    This time, Lan Chang''an''s role was to assist in guiding and enhancing the effects of the healing medicine inside Fu Xuemei''s body.


    Otherwise, using Foundation Establishment methods to treat True Dan-level injuries would be severelycking.


    The injuries caused by different levels of power couldn¡¯t bepared.


    In some cases, the wounds inflicted by a high-level cultivator on a lower-level one could leave a lifelong scar.


    "Avoid the strand of Core power on the left. Yes, just like that..."


    During the treatment, the hunched old servant asionally offered reminders.


    Lan Chang''an understood and cooperated seamlessly, progressing steadily through the healing process, which was going smoother than expected.


    "Little friend Lan¡¯s energy is pure, skilled in healing, and your control is impressive." The old servant let out a breath of relief and unconsciously praised him.


    "It''s nothing worth mentioning."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t have to worry about revealing too much.


    At this moment, although his Evergreen Technique had developed to a significant degree,pared to the level of the Huanglong Immortal, it was just able to enter the picture.


    The wood-based cultivation techniques were renowned for their healing properties, so his performance wasn¡¯t surprising¡ªthere had been ample foreshadowing leading up to this.


    Were it not for the circumstances, Lan Chang''an would¡¯ve preferred not to get involved in Huanglong Mountain''s matters.


    However, with the pressure from a True Dan cultivator, it was hard for a Foundation Establishment disciple to disobey.


    Considering the promised "heavy reward" from the Core Formation Immortal, and the fact that treating the injury posed little risk, Lan Chang''an reluctantly agreed.


    ...


    Several li away from Wuqi Mountain.


    Two figures, a man and a woman, stood concealed beneath a canopy of greenery.


    "Given the rtionship between Huanglong Mountain and Wuqi Mountain, it¡¯s no surprise that Fu Dong found this ce." He Yuanwu''s eyes flickered, a smile ying on his lips.


    "With Herbalist Ye captured in advance, there''s no skilled healer to treat Fu Xuemei. Her injury will only worsen over time."


    "You only captured Herbalist Ye. Are you certain there''s no second healer at Wuqi Mountain capable of treating Fu Xuemei?"


    A crisp, bell-like female voice came from the young woman in the yellow dress beside him.


    "What does Miss Zhou mean by this?" He Yuanwu frowned, not daring to show any contempt for the yellow-robed, veiled maiden.


    They were equal partners in this endeavor.


    Although Miss Zhou was only at thete Foundation Establishment stage, she had a quasi-third-rank spiritual beast, capable of rivaling a Fake-Dan cultivator.


    The remnants of the Huanglong Mountain''s direct lineage had scattered after their retreat. The outside world spected that Fu Xuemei carried with her the core assets of the Huanglong lineage.


    However, no one knew where the severely injured head of the mountain, Fu Xuemei, had fled.


    Since the Huanglong lineage wasn¡¯t officially wanted by the sects, even those who were brave enough to investigate could not openly search or hunt them.


    Those with weak strength, unsure of the severity of Fu Xuemei''s injuries, had the heart but not the guts.


    However, this Zhou girl, was able to keep locking down Fu Xuemei''s hidden destination, this ability exceeded that of a usual Core Formation Immortal.


    "You don¡¯t understand Lan Chang''an of Little Turtle Peak well enough." Miss Zhou chuckled lightly.


    "The Turtle Talisman Master?"


    "This man¡¯s wood-attribute cultivation technique excels in healing. Though he doesn¡¯t specialize in medical arts, his abilities aren¡¯t widely known. I suspect that, in terms of healing power, Lan Chang''an is not inferior to Herbalist Ye."


    "Even so, he¡¯s not skilled in medicine. How could he treat the severe injuries of a True Dan cultivator?" He Yuanwu''s expression shifted slightly, but then he shook his head with a faint smile.


    "What if there were a True Dan elder guiding him?" Miss Zhou replied casually.


    "Are you still suggesting that the old man from Huanglong Mountain might still be alive?"


    "That old man''s body was cremated in front of many witnesses. And besides, the experts from Tian Zhi Pavilion confirmed that his life essence had indeed run dry¡ªthere was no trickery involved." He Yuanwu found it hard to believe.


    "I don¡¯t doubt the intelligence from Tian Zhi Pavilion."


    "But in the cultivation world, there are many methods of feigning death and creating substitutes. During the funeral, note-stage Core Formation great cultivators were present. If Huanglong Immortal still has one breath left, he could be protecting from the dark or hiding beside Fu Xuemei." Miss Zhou spected.


    "Even if that¡¯s true, the old man is at the end of his life. His threat is less than that of an early True Dan cultivator. But if Fu Xuemei¡¯s injury is effectively treated, that could pose a problem for us..."


    He Yuanwu was clear that in the long run, the biggest threat was Fu Xuemei. However, the benefits on this woman were enough to move him.


    "As long as you understand, we cannot ignore this possibility."


    "What n does Miss Zhou suggest?"


    "Let¡¯s observe for a day. If Fu Xuemei and her brother stay at Wuqi Mountain, we will..."


    "Must... this Immortal take the lead again?" He Yuanwu grumbled.


    "Those with ability work harder! Once everything is done, the bulk of the hundreds of years¡¯ worth of Huanglong Mountain''s inheritance will be yours. I only want the sealed and slumbering Huang Dragon Beast."


    Miss Zhou¡¯sughter carried a teasing charm.


    ...


    Back at Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an let out a long sigh, cold sweat trickling down his forehead as he took a bottle of Qi Recovery Pills from Fu Dong.


    Inside the carriage, Fu Xuemei''s clothes were soaked with sweat, and her delicate figure appeared even more striking through her damp attire.


    Her pale face had regained a hint of color, her eyshes fluttering slightly as if her consciousness was slowly returning.


    "Her condition has improved! Once Xuemei regains some vitality, she¡¯ll be able to dissolve the remaining strands of True Dan energy on her own." The hunched old servant spoke with relief, his murky eyes turning toward Lan Chang''an.


    During this short time at Little Turtle Peak, he hade to recognize Lan Chang''an¡¯s extraordinary abilities.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s calm demeanor and the seamless cooperation during the healing process had impressed him.


    With such pure energy and solid foundations, this young man would undoubtedly advance to thete Foundation Establishment stage and possibly even tread the path to Core Formation.


    After taking the pill and resting for a quarter of an hour, Lan Chang''an resumed the treatment.


    From morning until afternoon, Fu Xuemei''s condition steadily improved, with her Core power slowly recovering.


    "Little Dong... Master..."


    By evening, Fu Xuemei¡¯s eyelids fluttered, and she murmured softly.


    It seemed it wouldn¡¯t be long before this True Dan female cultivator would fully awaken.


    Fu Dong was overjoyed and repeatedly expressed his gratitude to Lan Chang''an.


    Originally, Lan Chang''an was just a reluctantst resort in their ns, but the oue far exceeded their expectations.


    "From now on, all Fu Xuemei needs is to rest, absorb the secret medicine, and gradually recover." Lan Chang''an withdrew his hand, looking exhausted.


    He could continue treating her and speed up the process, but such strenuous effort didn¡¯t seem worthwhile.


    He wasn¡¯t a professional healer, and he had no deep ties to Fu Xuemei. There was no reason for him to stay by her side, tending to her day and night.


    "Little friend Lan,e with me for a talk."


    Leaving Fu Dong to care for his sister, the hunched old man and Lan Chang''an went to a tea room within the cave.


    ...


    "Senior Huanglong, my humble abodecks quality tea."


    Lan Chang''an cupped his hands in greeting and began preparing the tea for the other party.


    At this moment, the hunched old servant had already resumed his original appearance as Huanglong Immortal.


    With white hair, deeply lined wrinkles, sunken eyes, and a gaunt frame, it was hard to associate him with the imposing presence of the number one loose cultivator of Liang Kingdom that Lan Chang''an had once encountered.


    "Take this tin of ''Immortal Mist Tea'' and use it."


    Huanglong Immortal sat trembling on a stool, lifting a hand to retrieve a jar of tea leaves.


    "Third-rank spiritual tea."


    Lan Chang''an epted the jar, feeling a surge of delight.


    Huanglong Immortal wasn¡¯t an ordinary Core Formation cultivator, and this third-rank spiritual tea was nomon treasure, and it was quite beneficial for a Foundation Establishment stage to take.


    Just this tin of tea alone far exceeded the price of hiring Herbalist Ye to personally treat her, and this wasn¡¯t even the true reward Huanglong Immortal had mentioned.


    Before long, for the first time in this lifetime, Lan Chang''an drank the third-rank tea he had longed for. His mind immediately cleared, his thoughts bing sharp and vivid.


    He soon realized that this Immortal Mist Tea subtly enhanced one¡¯s spiritual consciousness.


    Each time it was consumed, there was a considerable increase in the state of alchemy and drawing talismans.


    With the help of Immortal Mist Tea, once he reachedte Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an could attempt to craft third-rank talismans.


    "Little friend Lan brewed the third-rank tea with such ease. Ordinary Foundation Establishment loose cultivatorsck this kind of depth and confidence." Huanglong Immortal¡¯s murky eyes gleamed with a trace of admiration.


    "Senior praises me too much. This junior¡¯s rough methods surely spoiled the tea."


    Lan Chang''an felt a jolt of caution. As expected of a True Dan powerhouse who had dominated for centuries, Huanglong Immortal could discern subtleties from even the smallest details.


    "I''ve heard rumors about you in the past, but it''s a pity that I didn''t meet you soon. Had I met you earlier, I would¡¯ve definitely invited you to join Huanglong Mountain..." Huanglong Immortal sighed with regret.


    At this proximity, he could sense Lan Chang''an''s inner jade-like quality, that temperament and elegance exceeded the typical elites of major sects.


    Particrly notable was Lan Chang''an¡¯s tranquil state of mind. He remained unmoved by both honor and disgrace, there is a kind of transcendent sense of watching the world''s tides rise and fall.


    It was only through close observation that Huanglong Immortal could faintly perceive this.


    Lan Chang''an, having observed that Huanglong Immortal didn¡¯t have much longer to live and posed no threat to him, no longer felt the need to put on an act too deliberately. He resumed his usualid-back demeanor in the Little Turtle Peak on weekdays.


    "I¡¯m surprised Senior Huanglong knows of someone as insignificant as me." Lan Chang''an expressed mild shock.


    After decades of being here, Huanglong Immortal had known of him, even if he hadn¡¯t paid much attention.


    "Little friend Lan, here is my token of thanks for your help."


    After chatting for a while, Huanglong Immortal reached for his waist and ced three items on the table.


    They were a segment of greyish-white spiritual wood and two jade slips.


    "A third-rank spirit bamboo, a third-rank talisman master inheritance, and a third-rank puppet master inheritance!"


    Upon inspecting the items, Lan Chang''an was visibly moved.


    Huanglong Mountain had no idea that Lan Chang''an didn¡¯tck a third-rank talisman master inheritance.


    Nevertheless, this reward was more than generous.


    "Are you satisfied with this, little friend Lan?"


    "It fits my needs perfectly."


    Lan Chang''an knew that Huanglong Mountain had investigated him in the past, which was how they managed to present him with such fitting rewards.


    "I have one more request."


    Huanglong Immortal coughed lightly, his hand resting on his chest as even his breathing seemedbored.


    "Please speak, Senior."


    Lan Chang''an became curious. With Huanglong Mountain in retreat, they must have carried a lot of rare resources with them.


    "Little friend Lan, you¡¯ve interacted with Xuemei. What do you think of her?"


    "Miss Fu? Oh no, Fu Immortal! She¡¯s naturally a proud daughter of the heavens, a national beauty..."


    "The old man only asks one thing¡ªdo you hold any grudge against her?"


    "Any past grievances with Fu Immortal have already been resolved, and I owe her much care."


    "Good. Once Xuemei wakes up, this Immortal will arrange for you two to be Daopanions." Huanglong Immortal pped his hands and smiled.


    "At that point, you¡¯ll both share part of Huanglong Mountain¡¯s inheritance and head to the neighboring country. You¡¯ll surely achieve great things together. It¡¯s definitely far better than staying alone at Wuqi Mountain."


    "To be Daopanions with a True Dan female cultivator?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He hadn¡¯t expected the dying Huanglong Immortal to think so highly of him.


    He was actually nning to entrust his most cherished disciple to him.


    Of course, it would be a lie to say that Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t tempted. But it wasn¡¯t Fu Xuemei¡¯s unmatched beauty that enticed him¡ªit was the vast resources of Huanglong Mountain.


    Taking this step, he may be able to struggle for a hundred years less in the future.

 Chapter 192: The Petrified Huang Dragon

    Chapter 192: The Petrified Huang Dragon


    After a brief moment of temptation, Lan Chang''an quickly regained hisposure and saw through Huanglong Immortal''s intentions.


    "Fu Xuemei¡¯s injury has only just stabilized, and her strength is less than ten percent of its peak. It¡¯ll likely take at least half a year for her to fully recover."


    "For such a long period of weakness, she¡¯d need me to stay by her side day and night, using my nurturing methods to elerate her healing."


    "And during the journey to the neighboring country, I¡¯d have to share the burden of any unknown dangers and pursuers. This isn¡¯t a Daopanion¡ªit¡¯s a free doctor, bodyguard, and nanny all in one."


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but admire Huanglong Immortal¡¯s shrewdness.


    "Even if we survive all of this, once we reach the neighboring country and Fu Xuemei regains her full Core Formation powers, as a mere Foundation Establishment loose cultivator, would I have any say in matters? At that point, everything would depend on her goodwill, and I¡¯d be at her mercy."


    With that in mind, Lan Chang''anpletely dismissed the idea.


    After all, in this world, where could one find such an easy meal?Of course, while Huanglong Immortal was painting a big cake, he might genuinely appreciate Lan Chang''an. In the future, Fu Xuemei might not treat him so harshly, and perhaps they could truly share the inheritance of Huanglong Mountain as Daopanions.


    But Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t see the need to gamble on that.


    "I greatly appreciate your good intentions, Senior," Lan Chang''an sighed. He couldn¡¯t reject the offer too bluntly, so he gave a more justifiable excuse: "The cultivation world is full of uncertainty. A Foundation Establishment cultivator has only just begun to find their footing. Without the magical treasures and abilities of a Core Formation cultivator, I can barely maintain my own path. How could I dare to take a wife or form a Daopanionship?"


    Hearing this, Huanglong Immortal gazed at him for a moment before nodding in admiration. "To think someone of your cultivation and experience holds such a perspective."


    "Even as a True Dan cultivator, there are many times when I have no control over my fate. In this vast world of cultivation, without reaching the Nascent Soul Realm, we are all merely pieces on the chessboard."


    Lan Chang''an felt a deep resonance with this statement.


    In his past life, as a Core Formation expert, he understood that Huanglong Immortal''s words were truly heartfelt.


    As their conversation continued, Huanglong Immortal didn¡¯t bring up the topic of forming a Daopanionship again, perhaps because he realized that Lan Chang''an had already seen through the pros and cons.


    Huanglong Immortal found himself unexpectedly enjoying their conversation. Despite the gap in their cultivation levels, there was no natural barrier between them.


    It was important to note that Huanglong Immortal was no ordinary Core Formation cultivator.


    Even early and mid-stage Core Formation cultivators would typically have to show him respect and deference.


    "Unfortunately, I don¡¯t have much time left to have a deeper conversation with you, little friend Lan."


    Huanglong Immortal¡¯s eyes glimmered with a meaningful look, as if he faintly sensed that Lan Chang''an had an extraordinary background or some hidden secret.


    "To sit and converse with a legendary figure like you, Senior Huanglong, is a first for me, and an honor as well," Lan Chang''an said with a smile.


    In this life, after over a hundred years, it was rare to have a conversation with someone at a simr level to his previous life. For him, this was also a source of emotional sce.


    And since Huanglong Immortal was close to death, there was no need for him to restrain his demeanor or be overly cautious.


    ...


    "When I first arrived at your abode, I noticed that Profound Water Turtle of yours. Its cultivation growth is quite impressive. I had heard that when you first obtained the egg, its life signs were weak, and it was likely to be a sickly creature," Huanglong Immortal remarked with interest.


    "From this, it can be seen that you have unique expertise when ites to nurturing spirit pets."


    "I wouldn¡¯t say expertise, just some insights," Lan Chang''an already had a reasonable exnation prepared for this.


    "My life-nurturing technique excels at nurturing and nourishing. In addition, I was fortunate to acquire a rare heavenly material in my early years, and by a stroke of luck, I managed to help the Profound Water Turtle grow smoothly."


    The true cultivation level of the Profound Water Turtle was often concealed at thete first rank, so ordinary cultivators couldn¡¯t discern it. However, under the sharp gaze of someone like Huanglong Immortal, it couldn¡¯t escape notice during close contact.


    "Little friend Lan, if you really possess unique means or are perhaps a hidden expert, I implore you to save my oldpanion," Huanglong Immortal suddenly rose, his tone earnest, bowing slightly as he spoke.


    The "oldpanion" he referred to was, of course, the Huang Dragon Beast.


    "Please, Senior, don''t overwhelm me with praise! I am merely an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator, not some reclusive master," Lan Chang''an chuckled bitterly.


    It seemed that even a slight disy of demeanor or insight was enough for Huanglong Immortal to make such associations.


    However, in the cultivation world, such stories did circte.


    There were rumors of certain ancient, mysterious old monsters who, for unknown reasons or goals, would conceal their identities and wander the world in secret.


    One series of texts from the Heaven Honoured Continent, Legends of Hidden Experts, recorded simr tales.


    One popr ount mentioned a legendary Deity Transformation cultivator who, due to special circumstances, couldn¡¯t act freely or reveal their identity.


    At least, in Lan Chang''an''s three lifetimes, he had yet to witness any definitive proof of a Deity Transformation cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, whether or not those rumors are true, I still ask that you take a look."


    After saying this, Huanglong Immortal took out a spirit pet pouch from his waist.


    The two moved to the spacious main hall of the cave mansion.


    As the restriction was lifted, the surface of the spirit pet pouch rippled with a pale yellow light.


    Soon, a petrified creature, resembling a cross between a crocodile and a dragon, appeared before Lan Chang''an.


    "A petrification seal?"


    Lan Chang''an''s expression shifted slightly as he examined the creature.


    From what he could sense, the Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s heartbeat had ceased, and its life force was nearly extinguished.


    He ced his hand on the creature¡¯s stone-like exterior, feeling the cold, marble-like texture of its petrified scales.


    His spiritual sense prated inside, barely detecting a faint, dormant consciousness.


    "Powerless!"


    Lan Chang''an sighed and shook his head.


    From what he could tell, the Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s physical body was almost entirely dead. Before its death, it had used a secret technique to seal itself, preserving its body and thest remnants of its spirit and vitality.


    His healing abilities of the Evergreen mana were far from sufficient to save it.


    Even if he were to use the secret spell of the Evergreen Technique, at the cost of his own lifespan, the price would still be significant.


    After all, the Huang Dragon Beast''s life force was on apletely different level from his own.


    This was far more difficult than when he had saved Mu Xiuyun back then.


    "Little friend Lan, is there really no way?"


    Huanglong Immortal seemed to hold onto a sliver of hope as he watched for any subtle changes in Lan Chang''an''s expression.


    "If you can seed, I promise a heavy reward. I am willing to offer my life-bound magical treasure in exchange, as well as one of the main ingredients for the Crystal Condensation Pill¡ªthe ''Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower.''"


    To sweeten the deal, Huanglong Immortal brought out his famed treasure, the Huanglong Mountain Seal.


    The main ingredient for the Crystal Condensation Pill was sealed inside a jade box, a rare third-rank, seven-hearted mystical flower.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart stirred.


    There were three primary ingredients needed for the Crystal Condensation Pill, and the rarest and most crucial of them all was the "Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower."


    By chance, the materials he had gathered from Senior Brother Zhuo made up about seventy percent of the total required, with the "Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower" being the most difficult to acquire.


    If he obtained this flower, there would be no real obstacles left in refining a Crystal Condensation Pill in the future.


    As for Huanglong Immortal¡¯s life-bound magical treasure, though it was immensely powerful, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t use it for now, and it wasn¡¯t well-suited to his cultivation technique.


    "This ''Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower'' still has several decades to reach its five-hundred-year maturity, but it¡¯s already sufficient for the Crystal Condensation Pill. With the right rare spiritual liquids, its growth can be elerated," Huanglong Immortal added, noticing Lan Chang''an''s interest.


    "It¡¯s a pity, but I truly cannot help," Lan Chang''an sighed again, not hiding his desire for the Crystal Condensation Pill¡¯s ingredient.


    Though Huanglong Immortal was a dying man, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t willing to reveal the secrets of the Evergreen Technique.


    Unless he was desperate for the Crystal Condensation Pill, it wasn¡¯t worth taking the risk. And even if he went ahead with the transaction, he¡¯d need to flee the Liang Kingdom as quickly as possible afterward.


    Seeing Lan Chang''an''s reaction, Huanglong Immortal was more or less convinced that Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t have the means to save the Huang Dragon Beast.


    After all, when faced with the opportunity to advance to the Core Formation Realm, how could a Foundation Establishment cultivator resist?


    ...


    "Sister... you¡¯re awake!"


    Not far away, Fu Dong¡¯s voice trembled with joy, tears of relief streaming down his face.


    Huanglong Immortal put away his treasure and the Crystal Condensation Pill ingredient, then followed Lan Chang''an to the carriage to check on Fu Xuemei.


    "Master... Master, forgive your disciple¡¯s ipetence. I couldn¡¯t save Huanglong Mountain..."


    Inside the carriage, Fu Xuemei slowly opened her eyes, her face still deathly pale. She tried to sit up but found herself weak and in pain, her abdomen still throbbing.


    "The situation was beyond your control. You¡¯ve done your best. For now, just focus on resting and recovering," Huanglong Immortal said gently, his face marked by deep, aging wrinkles.


    Lan Chang''an remained silent at the side.


    However, Fu Xuemei¡¯s clear and ethereal eyes soonnded on him. She smiled faintly, saying, "Fellow Daoist Lan, thest time we met was over sixty years ago. In recent years, I had thought of meeting you again, but the opportunity never arose."


    Around fifteen years ago, Lan Chang''an, under the identity of "Junior Brother Cheng," had crossed paths with Fu Xuemei.


    Back then, by sheer coincidence, he had acted as her "protector" during her breakthrough. He had ended up trading an inferior-quality Crystal Condensation Pill for the real deal, which ultimately resulted in Fu Xuemei forming a bottom tier True Dan.


    "Seeing you again today, Fellow Daoist Lan, you haven¡¯t aged a day. You¡¯re still as elegant andposed as ever. Living peacefully at Wuqi Mountain, raising turtles and cultivating nts¡ªhow envious."


    Gazing at the ageless man in white, Fu Xuemei seemed to return to that scene in Huanglong Immortal City, at the residence of Alchemist Hua, over sixty years ago.


    What happened back then had gone against her own heart, even leaving a crack in her mental state.


    "Fu Immortal, you tter me. My unchanging appearance is simply a sign of stagnation. How could Ipare to you? Not only are you still as beautiful as ever, but having achieved True Dan, your brilliance surpasses even the past," Lan Chang''an responded, though his words carried a slight hint of ttery, they were also true.


    Fu Xuemei was younger than Zhao Siyao, and she had formed her Core earlier. As a result, she appeared to be no older than a woman in her twenties.


    With the enhancement of her Core Formation cultivation, her allure far surpassed that of her youth.


    "If my impression of myself is even a tenth as good as what you¡¯ve described, Fellow Daoist Lan, I would have no regrets," Fu Xuemei said softly, a faint blush coloring her pale face, and a slight smile ying on her lips.


    Lan Chang''an inwardly wondered whether this woman had some sort of sharp intuition and had perhaps suspected something about his true identity back then.


    "Was it Fellow Daoist Lan who saved me just now?" Fu Xuemei asked, shifting the topic.


    "Sister, how did you know?" Fu Dong looked surprised.


    Fu Xuemei had only just woken up and had been unconscious throughout their journey. She couldn¡¯t possibly know what had transpired.


    "It was all thanks to your master¡¯s guidance that I was able to assist the secret medicine inside Fu Immortal¡¯s body and stabilize the injuries," Lan Chang''an replied modestly.


    "I owe you my life, Fellow Daoist Lan. Forgive me for being unable to rise and express my gratitude properly," Fu Xuemei said solemnly.


    During her time in unconsciousness, she had been trapped in a void of darkness. But she had faintly sensed a gentle, pale green warmth, like that of an ancient Evergreen tree, endlessly sustaining and responding to her True Dan.


    "Fu Immortal, you¡¯re too polite. Senior Huanglong has alreadypensated me. Even without my intervention, you would have recovered safely," Lan Chang''an said.


    He knew that Huanglong Immortal still had one more opportunity to act.


    This time, his intervention had been purely transactional; it wasn¡¯t really a life-saving favor.


    Huanglong Immortal had already given him third-rank spirit wood and a third-rank puppet inheritance, all things he needed.


    "Little friend Lan, it seems you¡¯re slightly older than Xuemei, is that right?" Huanglong Immortal suddenly asked.


    Lan Chang''an nodded and replied humbly, "Age matters little on the path of cultivation. Though I may be older by a few years, I cannotpare to Fu Immortal in terms of achievements."


    "Haha! No need for modesty, little friend Lan. You and Xuemei knew each other in the past, and you''ve both shared in each other¡¯s fortunes and debts. Such karmic ties cannot be measured by cultivation level or seniority."


    "Master is right. Fellow Daoist Lan, there¡¯s no need to address me as ''Fu Immortal'' with every sentence. We should speak as equals," Fu Xuemei quickly grasped her master¡¯s intentions.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t object. If she wanted to treat him as an equal, that was fine¡ªafter all, it wasn¡¯t him who would be at a disadvantage.


    "Xuemei, for you and your brother, this karmic debt is like a second chance at life. You should address Fellow Daoist Lan as ''Big Brother,''" Huanglong Immortal said with a serious expression, his tone firm.


    Fu Xuemei paused for a moment, her ethereal, lonely eyesnding on Lan Chang''an as she softly said, "Greetings, Big Brother Lan."


    Though she wasn¡¯t entirely sure of her master¡¯s reasoning, Fu Xuemei didn¡¯t resist.


    To have a True Dan female cultivator address him so gently and respectfully¡ªespecially one who had once been a peerless genius with a rare earth spiritual root¡ªLan Chang''an could only feel a shiver run down his spine.


    "This... this won¡¯t do," he stammered, suddenly flustered, realizing Huanglong Immortal¡¯s intentions.


    Taking a nce at the delicate True Dan female cultivator, who exuded an aura like an orchid in a secluded valley, he silently mused: Even if you call me ''Father,'' there¡¯s no way I¡¯m letting you stay overnight at Little Turtle Peak.

 Chapter 193: An Old Letter

    Under the insistence of both Core Formation cultivators, Lan Chang''an had no choice but to reluctantly ept Fu Xuemei¡¯s new way of addressing him as "Big Brother Lan."


    For a female True Dan cultivator to lower herself and treat him as an equal was an extraordinary gesture of respect. If he refused, it would appear ungrateful.


    Huanglong Immortal, nearing the end of his life, likely saw the extraordinary potential in Lan Chang''an. After failing to arrange a Daopanionship between him and Fu Xuemei, he perhaps hoped to leave some sort of bond between them.


    Half an hourter, Fu Xuemei had recovered enough of her strength to stand.


    "Miss Fu''s injuries are no longer life-threatening. What are your ns now?" Lan Chang''an asked, ncing at the setting sun outside the cave.


    Huanglong Immortal and Fu Xuemei immediately understood the meaning of his words.


    "This time we''ve caused trouble for you, little friend Lan. We''ll leave Wuqi Mountain before nightfall," Huanglong Immortal cupped his hands, his tone apologetic.


    Lan Chang''an let out a small sigh of relief. At least the two Core Formation cultivators still cared about saving face and weren¡¯t nning to overstay their wee.The two understood well enough that staying too long at Wuqi Mountain could bring unwanted trouble to Lan Chang''an.


    Wuqi Mountain was a neutral, small-scale trading hub. If it were merely business transactions or treating injuries, no one would bat an eye.


    After all, Huanglong Mountain¡¯s people were not fugitives¡ªthey had simply lost power.


    However, if Wuqi Mountain were to shelter injured members of Huanglong Mountain, it would imply that they were taking sides, potentially putting Lan Chang''an at odds with Huanglong Mountain''s enemies.


    With about an hour left before nightfall, Lan Chang''an arranged rooms for the three to rest briefly, especially Fu Xuemei, who was still weak and needed every moment to recover.


    "I won''t hide it from you, little friend Lan, we may have been followed by enemies, and leaving now is not without risk. Before we go, could you assist Xuemei with onest healing session to help her recover faster?" Huanglong Immortal asked frankly.


    "Very well."


    Since he and Fu Xuemei were already in a doctor-patient rtionship, this request was within reason. As long as they didn¡¯t stay overnight, Lan Chang''an had no objections.


    The room he prepared for Fu Xuemei was the same one that Mu Bingyun had stayed in years ago, furnished and decorated to suit a female cultivator''s tastes.


    Huanglong Immortal exchanged a nce with Fu Dong, and the two quietly left the room, leaving only Lan Chang''an and Fu Xuemei inside.


    Fu Xuemei sat cross-legged on the cushion, her long pale-purple hair cascading around her like silk, her delicate face as cold and pristine as the moon goddess.


    "If Big Brother Lan feels embarrassed, we can simply sit for an hour and chat," Fu Xuemei said softly, her expression serene.


    She faintly sensed that her master¡¯s arrangements weren¡¯t solely about hastening her recovery¡ªthere seemed to be deeper intentions behind them.


    "No need. If I can help give Miss Fu a better chance at survival, an hour of my time is nothing," Lan Chang''an replied as he stepped toward her.


    Fu Xuemei smiled faintly and nodded. She didn¡¯t seem to feel the usual awkwardness that came with a man and woman being left alone in a room together.


    To avoid any perceived impropriety¡ªgiven that healing often involved cing his hand on her abdomen¡ªLan Chang''an thought for a moment, then moved behind her, sitting cross-legged as well. He ced his hand on her back, sending his Evergreen mana through her body to reach the injury in her abdomen.


    Seeing his considerate gesture, Fu Xuemei¡¯s eyes flickered with a trace of admiration.


    Even though Lan Chang''an was mindful of propriety, his palm, through the thin fabric of her white gown, could still feel the smooth, soft skin of the Core Formation female cultivator beneath.


    The hour passed swiftly.


    During that time, the two exchanged very few words.


    Fu Xuemei silently controlled her True Dan energy, cooperating seamlessly with Lan Chang''an''s healing efforts, making the process go even smoother.


    "It¡¯s done. Miss Fu, for the next few months, try to avoid using your magical power as much as possible."


    "Thank you, Big Brother Lan."


    The two stood up together, and because they had both exerted some effort, faint beads of sweat could be seen on their foreheads. They were also acutely aware of the lingering presence of each other¡¯s breath.


    Perhaps due to the sess of the healing session, Fu Xuemei¡¯s once pale cheeks now carried a faint flush of color.


    Seeing the two walk out side by side, Huanglong Immortal smiled and nodded, expressing his gratitude once again.


    By this time, night had nearly fallen.


    The three visitors from Huanglong Mountain made no further dys and prepared to take their leave.


    "One more thing¡ªplease do not disclose the specifics of today¡¯s healing session to anyone," Lan Chang''an requested as they prepared to leave.


    "I won¡¯t live much longer, so you can be assured that I won¡¯t bring any more trouble to you, Fellow Daoist Lan. If the opportunity arises, I might even help remove a potential threat to Wuqi Mountain," Huanglong Immortal said with a light cough as his figure shifted back into the appearance of the hunched old servant.


    "You have my word, Big Brother Lan. My brother and I will keep this secret," Fu Xuemei said seriously, bowing alongside her brother.


    ...


    In thest rays of the setting sun, Lan Chang''an watched as the carriage carrying the three from Huanglong Mountain left Little Turtle Peak.


    Squeak squeak!


    Therge Earth Burrowing Rat scurried out from the cave, its gaze fixed intently on the distant carriage.


    Seeing the drool at the corner of its mouth, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help butugh. He patted the thick fur on its head and said, "Don¡¯t dream too big. That mid-third-rank Huang Dragon Beast is far beyond your reach."


    It turned out that when Huanglong Immortal had brought out the "petrified specimen" of the Huang Dragon Beast earlier, the Earth Burrowing Rat had sensed it.


    The Huang Dragon Beast was a pure earth-element spiritual beast, even containing a trace of dragon bloodline. Its strength slightly surpassed many demonic beasts of the earth rank bloodlines.


    Whether it was the Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s core or its flesh and blood, it would be a massive tonic for the Earth Burrowing Rat, greatly increasing its chances of advancing to the third rank Great Demon.


    However, even in his previous life, Lan Chang''an had never owned such a precious spiritual beast.


    Back then, even though he had reached the peak of Core Formation, his foundation was still inferior to those of therge sects at the same level.


    At the height of its power, Huanglong Immortal, paired with his mid-third-rank Huang Dragon Beast, could contend withte-stage Core Formation cultivators.


    Huanglong Immortal had spent centuries with the Huang Dragon Beast, and their bond was deep¡ªhe was known for his fierce protectiveness of his pet.


    Though the Huang Dragon Beast wasn¡¯t entirely dead, it retained only a sliver of vitality and intelligence.


    If a Nascent Soul cultivator intervened, with the help of fourth-rank spiritual medicines, there was a slim chance the beast could be revived.


    That¡¯s why Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t propose any unrealistic trades.


    Besides, he was progressing steadily in his cultivation. If the Earth Burrowing Rat advanced too quickly, it might not be a good thing.


    After the trio from Huanglong Mountain departed, Lan Chang''an took the Earth Burrowing Rat and carefully inspected his cave once again, just to be cautious.


    After all, two Core Formation cultivators had just visited, one of whom was a legendary figure with hundreds of years of renown.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t afford to be careless¡ªwhat if they left behind some hidden means?


    The Earth Burrowing Rat sniffed around meticulously in every corner where the guests had stayed, not missing a single spot.


    After multiple checks, they confirmed there were no issues.


    Squeak squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from the room where Fu Xuemei had rested, carrying a letter in its mouth.


    "What¡¯s this?"


    Lan Chang''an noticed the letter looked old, as if it had been stored away for many years.


    The elegant handwriting on the envelope was also familiar¡ªit wasn¡¯t something left behind by Fu Xuemei.


    Instead, the room where Fu Xuemei had rested was once used by Mu Bingyun, who had lived here as a maid.


    "Uncle Lan, when you read this letter, I don¡¯t know how many years will have passed. Perhaps you¡¯ll never see it¡­"


    This letter had been left behind secretly by Mu Bingyun years ago after she was attacked by the "Night Fisherman" outside Wuqi Mountain.


    The words in the letter had the shyness and apprehension of a young girl spilling her heart out.


    "...It was Master¡¯s dying wish that gave me the courage to express my feelings. If Uncle Lan doesn¡¯t care, just pretend this letter never existed."


    After reading the letter, Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression remained unreadable as he sat in silence for a moment.


    He had never expected that the great miss of the Mu Family, before her death, had left such a request for her disciple.


    If Lan Chang''an and Mu Bingyun had feelings for each other, they wouldn¡¯t need to worry about any differences in seniority. As the deceased had wished, her spirit in the heavens would not me them and would silently give them her blessing.


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly. Mu Xiuyun had devoted her entire life to her family and had ced all her regrets in the hands of her disciple.


    ...


    Night fell, and Lan Chang''an had yet to fully recover from the memories of the past.


    Once again, Little Turtle Peak received an unexpected visitor.


    "Miss Zhou, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit thiste at night?"


    In the cave, Lan Chang''an looked at the young girl in the yellow dress standing across from him, her face as wless as jade, innocent yet beautiful.


    It had been many years since he¡¯dst seen Zhou Qingxuan of the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    Her family had since trained a new generation of talisman masters, so her dealings with Lan Chang''an had be less frequent over the years.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, did the siblings from Huanglong Mountain, Fu Xuemei and Fu Dong, recently visit Little Turtle Peak?" Zhou Qingxuan asked directly, her tone urgent.


    "They did."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind raced. The Beast Taming Zhou Family had no enmity with Huanglong Mountain; in fact, they had cooperated on several asions.


    So, what was Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s purpose ining here?


    "The Beast Taming Zhou Family... Is she after the Huang Dragon Beast?"


    In an instant, Lan Chang''an understood Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s real reason for her visit.


    "How are Fu Xuemei¡¯s injuries? Did you treat her?" Zhou Qingxuan asked, her bright eyes fixed intently on Lan Chang''an.


    The spiritual pressure radiating from her, apanied by her soul force, was far greater than that of an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Miss Zhou, what do you mean by these questions? Are you here to use me of something or to teach me how to do my job?" Lan Chang''an replied calmly, his tone carrying a trace of displeasure.


    He wasn¡¯t sure where Zhou Qingxuan got the nerve to confront him like this. Even if she was at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, she had no right to act superior in Wuqi Mountain.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t aware that Zhou Qingxuan had a quasi-third-rank spiritual beast, making her capable of rivaling even Fake Dan cultivators.


    "I apologize if I was too forward."


    Zhou Qingxuan met his gaze and saw that Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t backing down in the slightest. She gave a small, apologetic smile and said, "I don¡¯t mean to use you of anything, Fellow Daoist Lan. I¡¯m simply here to inquire about Huanglong Mountain."


    "If you can provide urate information, I¡¯d be happy to offer you a gift¡ªa supply of beast feed and pills suitable forte second-rank earth-element demonic beasts."


    Zhou Qingxuan shed a charming smile as she handed over a jade box.


    Lan Chang''an epted the jade box, nced inside, and said slowly, "I made a deal with Huanglong Mountain, so I cannot reveal sensitive information. However, I can share some general details."


    "Fu Xuemei¡¯s injuries were severe, and she¡¯s been relying on secret medicines to stay alive. Out of goodwill and due to the circumstances, I treated her, but my medical skills are limited. All I could do was help her regain consciousness."


    "How much strength do you estimate she has left? How long will it take for her to fully recover?" Zhou Qingxuan asked thoughtfully.


    "It¡¯s hard to say. I¡¯m not well-versed in assessing the injuries of True Dan cultivators."


    "Did Huanglong Immortal make an appearance?"


    "Huanglong Immortal? Isn¡¯t he dead?" Lan Chang''an responded in surprise.


    "Other than the Fu siblings, were there any suspiciouspanions?"


    "There was an old servant with them, but he didn¡¯t seem like Huanglong Immortal."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t appreciate Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s attitude, and due to his professional ethics, he refrained from revealing any private details about his clients.


    "Thank you for sharing what you could, Fellow Daoist Lan. Please, keep my visit tonight a secret."


    Zhou Qingxuan stood up to leave after gathering some information.


    "Rest assured, Miss Zhou. I will keep this to myself," Lan Chang''an said as he put away the jade box, promising to remain discreet.


    "Interesting. Is the Beast Taming Zhou Family involved in the hunt for Huanglong Mountain, or is this just Zhou Qingxuan acting on her own?"


    Watching the yellow-dressed girl leave on her flying beast, Lan Chang''an''s interest was piqued.


    Since both sides had offered him rewards, he had no intention of getting further involved. He would stay neutral and not assist either party.


    ...


    Late into the night.


    As Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged in meditation, he suddenly sensed a terrifying surge of magical power.


    Boom!


    A distant rumbling shook the earth,ing from several hundred li away. Wuqi Mountain was swept by a sudden cold wind.

 Chapter 194: The Flying Beast Calls for Help

    Chapter 194: The Flying Beast Calls for Help


    "A mid-stage Core Formation attack!"


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes snapped open, a flicker of astonishment crossing his face.


    Judging by the burst of magical energy he had just sensed, the one who made the move was most likely Huanglong Immortal.


    From what he knew, Huanglong Immortal only had onest opportunity to strike, and his strength was supposed to be severely weakened.


    However, the intensity of the attack he just sensed far exceeded that of an ordinary mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, even approaching the power of ate-stage Core Formation expert.


    Given Huanglong Immortal''s dying state, no matter how potent the pills or secret techniques at his disposal, it shouldn¡¯t have been possible for him to unleash such a powerful strike.


    With only a few days left to live, his body should have had no life force or vitality left to be squeezed out of it.


    "Could it be¡­ Huanglong Immortal self-destructed his life-bound magical treasure?"Lan Chang''an, a formerte-stage Core Formation expert in his previous life, had a sudden sh of insight. It was a usible scenario.


    Huanglong Immortal¡¯s life-bound magical treasure, the Huanglong Mountain Seal, had been nurtured for hundreds of years. Even without sufficient magical power to support it, the destruction of such a magical treasure would produce extraordinary power.


    Lan Chang''an waited in silence for a moment.


    He didn¡¯t sense any further magical fluctuations of the same level, as if the burst of power had been a fleeting moment of brilliance.


    He let out a long sigh, filled with a mix of emotions.


    The once-renowned number-one loose cultivator of the Liang Kingdom, a legendary figure who had dominated for hundreds of years, had finally reached the end of his era.


    Not long ago, that elderly man had shared tea and conversation with Lan Chang''an, and the two had gotten along quite well.


    Yet Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t feel any particr grief or pity.


    Huanglong Immortal had been a man of great fortune. His life, filled with hundreds of years of brilliance, had taken him to heights that ny-nine percent of cultivators could never dream of.


    Lan Chang''an simply felt a sense of shared experience.


    The level and status Huanglong Immortal had attained were very simr to Lan Chang''an''s own position in his previous life.


    Hundreds of years of life, only to meet the limit of one¡¯s lifespan, unable to touch the path to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, did you sense that disturbance just now?"


    Not long after, the white-robed Fairy Shi arrived at Little Turtle Peak.


    "Yes," Lan Chang''an nodded, exchanging a brief discussion with Shi Manrong.


    Fairy Shi spected that the disturbance was likely rted to the remnants of Huanglong Mountain.


    After all, in recent days, the area surrounding Wuqi Mountain had been rtively peaceful, with the only major upheaval being the conflict involving Huanglong Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an, knowing the truth, didn¡¯t disagree with her assessment.


    "Did the carriage that came to Little Turtle Peak yesterday belong to Huanglong Mountain?" Fairy Shi¡¯s gaze was clear and faintly amused as she asked, her tone light.


    Fu Dong and Huanglong Immortal had both disguised themselves, so it would have been difficult for ordinary cultivators to recognize them.


    "Yes, they were originally looking for Herbalist Ye. Since he wasn¡¯t around, they had no choice but to settle for my half-baked skills, treating a dying horse as if it were still alive¡­"


    Lan Chang''an gave a brief ount of the situation, omitting certain key details.


    There was no need to hide the general facts¡ªpeople who were paying attention would eventually figure things out.


    Fu Xuemei¡¯s injury wasn¡¯t something incurable, and it wasn¡¯t a case of bringing someone back from the dead. Exactly how much Lan Chang''an¡¯s treatment had helped was something only those involved could know for sure.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, would you be interested in apanying me to investigate?" Fairy Shi suggested.


    After some discussion, the two deduced that He Yuanwu, along with other cultivators, might have been tracking the severely injured Fu Xuemei, hoping to seize the inheritance of Huanglong Mountain.


    The magical fluctuation they sensed earlier was likely the result of a life-or-death struggle between two powerful figures.


    "If He Yuanwu has been killed or severely injured, we might have a chance to rescue Herbalist Ye," Fairy Shi added.


    "Oh, I almost forgot about Herbalist Ye! In that case, we should definitely investigate," Lan Chang''an agreed, adopting a serious tone.


    He was almost certain that the magical fluctuation hade from Huanglong Immortal, who had now perished.


    That meant there was no longer any Core Formation-levelbatants on the scene.


    Any Fake-Dan cultivators still alive were either dead or grievously wounded.


    If there had been any active True Dan cultivators left, they wouldn¡¯t have needed to be so cautious¡ªthey could have easily dealt with the gravely injured Fu Xuemei.


    Investigating such aftermath posed little risk to Lan Chang''an, especially with the powerful Fairy Shi as his ally, and the potential rewards were substantial.


    First, they could take advantage of the chaotic situation to "scavenge" valuable items from the battlefield.


    Second, if they encountered He Yuanwu, they might have a chance to eliminate this threat.


    Lastly, they could potentially rescue Herbalist Ye.


    "For someone as cautious as you, Fellow Daoist Lan, to be willing to risk yourself for Herbalist Ye¡ªit seems the two of you must share a deep friendship?" Fairy Shi teased as they departed Wuqi Mountain on a flying boat, her lips curling into a yful smile.


    Both of them knew well enough that the real motivation for this venture was not merely to save a friend.


    "My friendship with Fairy Shi is even deeper. If you were ever in danger, I would certainly give it some thought," Lan Chang''an responded with a straight face.


    "Oh, to have Fellow Daoist Lan consider my safety even for a moment¡ªwhat an honor that would be," Fairy Shiughed softly, a hint of charm slipping through her dignified demeanor.


    The two had a close personal rtionship, so their conversations often had a casual, lighthearted tone.


    ...


    The moon was high, and it was still an hour before dawn.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong approached the scene of the earlier conflict.


    Dust still lingered in the air, not yet settled.


    Looking closer, they saw that an entire hill had been ttened, with a massive crater nearly a hundred zhang wide at its center, the edges scorched ck.


    The surroundingnd was covered in spiderweb-like cracks as if the earth had been shaken by a tremendous shockwave.


    The scale of destruction was so vast that it was difficult to spot any significant traces of blood.


    "Greetings, Fairy Shi."


    "Greetings, Talisman Master Lan."


    Several Qi-Refining cultivators who had been drawn to the scene greeted them, though they dared not venture too close to the central area, still in awe of the powerful energies that had been unleashed.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong carefully approached, keeping an eye out for each other as they began their investigation.


    "Just as I thought¡­"


    Lan Chang''an uncovered a palm-sized shard of a magical treasure from the dirt, its surface dull and yellow, devoid of any remaining spiritual energy.


    This fragment confirmed his earlier suspicion.


    He released the Earth Burrowing Rat, allowing it to burrow into the rubble in search of more spoils.


    Huanglong Immortal¡¯s life-bound magical treasure was made of high-grade materials. Even if it had lost its spiritual essence, the raw materials could still be melted down and repurposed.


    Some of these materials were valuable enough to be used in the refinement of new magical treasures for Lan Chang''an in the future.


    And if nothing else, selling them would certainly attract the interest of Core Formation cultivators.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, take a look over here."


    Shi Manrong used a spell to lift arge boulder, revealing bloodstains beneath it, along with a broken, deformed arm bone.


    "The deceased must have been physically robust, with impressive body cultivation. Judging by the lingering magical energy on the blood, this was likely a Fake-Dan cultivator," Lan Chang''an concluded after a quick examination.


    The two exchanged a nce, both suspecting that the dead person was none other than He Yuanwu, the traitor of Huanglong Mountain.


    Further investigation confirmed their hypothesis.


    Near the arm bone, they discovered more fragments of the corpse, along with pieces of a shattered storage pouch and a broken axe-shaped magical treasure.


    Some of the items, including the broken axe, were clearly associated with He Yuanwu.


    Unfortunately, most of the items in the storage pouch had been destroyed, with only a few of the sturdier materials surviving the explosion.


    "Well, that''s one less problem to worry about," Lan Chang''an chuckled.


    He couldn¡¯t help but recall Huanglong Immortal''s words before he left: "If the opportunity arises, I might even help remove a potential threat to Wuqi Mountain."


    It wasn¡¯t as though Huanglong Immortal had set out with the specific goal of helping Wuqi Mountain.


    Eliminating He Yuanwu, the traitor, had likely been his dying wish.


    In the battle at Huanglong Mountain more than a decade ago, He Yuanwu''s betrayal had inflicted severe losses on the mountain.


    After Huanglong Immortal''s "death" and Fu Xuemei''s escape, He Yuanwu had been more aggressive than any external enemy, relentlessly pursuing them for the mountain''s inheritance.


    "But why is there only He Yuanwu''s body here?"


    Lan Chang''an used his spiritual sense to scan the area and found it odd.


    Huanglong Immortal had only one chance to strike, and using it would have cost him his life.


    His body was likely taken away by the Fu siblings.


    But Lan Chang''an found it hard to believe that He Yuanwu would have acted alone.


    At the very least, tracking Huanglong Mountain¡¯s people shouldn¡¯t have been something He Yuanwu could manage on his own.


    He remembered that Zhou Qingxuan had visited Little Turtle Peak earlier, and he suspected that the Beast Taming Zhou Family might have been cooperating with He Yuanwu.


    The Zhou Family specialized in controlling spirit beasts. If they had special beasts or insects capable of tracking the Huanglong trio, it wouldn¡¯t be too surprising.


    Back during the beast tide, when the Huang Dragon Beast was gravely injured, Huanglong Immortal had offered a substantial reward to find experts, and Zhou Qingxuan had been one of those invited to help treat the beast.


    ...


    Swoosh! Swoosh!


    The sound of air being torn apart signaled the arrival of more Foundation Establishment cultivators, drawn to the scene.


    "Let¡¯s go find Herbalist Ye," Lan Chang''an said to Shi Manrong, and the two moved on.


    Since they were the first Foundation Establishment cultivators to arrive and had a good grasp of the situation, they boldly explored the area and were able to "collect" the most valuable items without much interference.


    As for the remaining scraps, they left them for the other cultivators.


    "Judging by your expression, Fellow Daoist Lan, it seems like you have a lead on where Herbalist Ye might be?" Shi Manrong asked with a yful smile, noticing the calm and confident look on Lan Chang''an''s face.


    "He Yuanwu was lurking nearby, and he had taken Herbalist Ye hostage. It¡¯s unlikely he would have kept him too far away."


    "Just now, I found traces of Herbalist Ye¡¯s belongings in the debris of He Yuanwu¡¯s storage pouch. The Earth Burrowing Rat has memorized the scent of both," Lan Chang''an exined with a smile.


    With the victim nearby and a means of tracking them, finding Herbalist Ye had just be much easier.


    ...


    More than half a dayter, from early morning untilte afternoon, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong finally narrowed down their search to a deste forest about sixty li away.


    A small wooden cabin, hidden beneath thickyers of foliage, came into view.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong didn¡¯t rush in.


    First, they swept the area with their spiritual senses and found a simple barrier in ce. However, it seemed to have gone without maintenance for quite some time and was no longer particrly powerful.


    Suddenly, Lan Chang''an sensed something and looked up toward the sky.


    A small ck dot flickered in and out of sight through the clouds.


    "A second-rank flying beast?"


    Lan Chang''an''s sharp senses picked up on the creature for a brief moment, making him thoughtful.


    Squeak squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat climbed up a nearby tree and pried open the door to the cabin.


    A faint, musty smell immediately wafted out.


    "Herbalist Ye!"


    Inside the cabiny a short-haired young man, motionless on the floor.


    Rotting fruits were scattered around him, and a blue centipede crawled across his distinctively handsome face.


    If not for the faint pulse of lifeing from him, Lan Chang''an might have mistaken him for a corpse.


    "¡­"


    Upon seeing Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong, Herbalist Ye¡¯s eyes rolled slightly, revealing a mix of surprise and relief.


    "Herbalist Ye has been hit with a restrictive seal. His body ispletely immobilized," Shi Manrong observed after a quick inspection.


    The seal was something ced by the Fake-Dan cultivator He Yuanwu. Fortunately, while it was beyond Foundation Establishment cultivators to break, it wasn¡¯t a particrlyplex seal.


    As a quasi-third-rank formation master, Shi Manrong would be able to lift it with a bit of effort.


    "Thank you, Fairy Shi. I¡¯ll keep watch outside," Lan Chang''an said as he stepped out of the cabin.


    He stationed the Earth Burrowing Rat by the door, then circled around the cabin, searching for anything suspicious.


    Once again, he sensed something in the sky and looked up to see the ck dot pass through the clouds once more.


    "It¡¯s the same second-rank flying beast as before."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t bother chasing after it.


    It would be difficult for a human cultivator to match the speed of a flying beast of the same rank.


    Whoosh!


    A feather fell from the sky.


    Lan Chang''an caught the feather and noticed amunication talisman tied to it.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Huanglong Immortal and He Yuanwu perished together. I barely escaped with my life, but I¡¯m severely injured and in need of assistance."


    "Please meet me in the bamboo forest ten li to the north. I have important information to share."

 Chapter 195: Attack of the Soul Gu

    Lan Chang''an destroyed themunication talisman in his hand, his eyes shing with contemtion as he fell into deep thought.


    Judging from the contents of the talisman, it was clear that He Yuanwu and Zhou Qingxuan had indeed been working together.


    However, for an experienced Fake Dan cultivator like He Yuanwu to have been utterly obliterated, while this woman managed to survive¡ªthere was something unusual about that.


    "Given the situation, He Yuanwu was either used as a pawn, or Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s true strength surpasses that of an average Fake Dan cultivator," Lan Chang''an spected. Both possibilities seemed equally usible.


    Moreover, Huanglong Immortal had only one chance to strike, and his primary target had been He Yuanwu, not Zhou Qingxuan.


    For a genius beast-tamer like Zhou Qingxuan, possessing a quasi-third-rank spirit pet wasn¡¯t out of the question.


    But having a fully-fledged third-rank spirit pet capable of rivaling a True Dan cultivator was unlikely.


    It wasn¡¯t just a matter of control or the risk of being devoured by the pet.If she truly had that kind of strength, she wouldn¡¯t need to be so cautious, scheming from the shadows, and going through all this trouble.


    "Zhou Qingxuan is asking for help now because she isn¡¯t confident in dealing with the remaining Fu siblings. She ims to be heavily injured, but this may be a disy of weakness, thinking I wouldn''t daree otherwise."


    "Does she think I¡¯m going to y the role of He Yuanwu number two?"


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but consider the worst-case scenario.


    Based on the current information, Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s strength might beparable to a Fake Dan cultivator, and her condition was likely less than perfect.


    If he only went to talk without delving too deeply into cooperation, the risks were manageable.


    That is, assuming there were no traps lying in wait.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s interest in the escaping Fu siblings stemmed primarily from two things: the Crystal Condensation Pill¡¯s main ingredient and the petrified body of the Huang Dragon Beast.


    After weighing the pros and cons, he decided to take action.


    He moved several li north, found a shaded spot under a tree, and closed his eyes. His consciousness merged with the second life sealed within the Nine Seal Stele.


    With the support of the second lifetime, his powerful spiritual sense instantly swept across four to five li, reaching the bamboo forest Zhou Qingxuan had mentioned.


    ...


    "There are no traps or ambushes."


    In the bamboo forest, Lan Chang''an only detected a temporary warning array.


    Inside the bamboo grove, a simple bamboo hut stood, where a delicate-looking young woman in a yellow dress sat cross-legged, herplexion pale and her energy weak.


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s once wless face now bore a scar the length of a finger, and her shoulder and dress were stained with blood.


    "She¡¯s indeed injured, and not lightly."


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his spiritual sense, reaching a preliminary conclusion.


    On arger scale, Zhou Qingxuan hadn¡¯t lied. She had a legitimate need for assistance and cooperation.


    Lan Chang''an nced toward the bamboo grove a few li away but chose not to approach.


    He turned back and headed to the wooden hut where he had left Shi Manrong and Ye Fei.


    After waiting for a while, Shi Manrong finally managed to lift the restrictive seal ced on Ye Fei by the Fake Dan cultivator.


    "True feelings are revealed in times of hardship! For Fairy Shi and Fellow Daoist Lan to risk their lives to rescue me¡ªYe Fei is deeply grateful," Ye Fei said as he struggled to his feet and gave them a deep bow.


    Facing the intimidation of an Immortal, even a blood brother would not necessarily dare toe over to save someone.


    "For today''s matter, I owe both of you a significant favor," Ye Fei promised sincerely.


    "Fellow Daoist Ye, there¡¯s no need to be so formal. We only acted because we were certain that He Yuanwu was either dead or severely injured," Lan Chang''an exined, detailing the general situation.


    Ye Fei understood, however, that even with those circumstances in their favor, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong''s actions were stillmendable.


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong were close, perhaps even lovers. If they had harbored any malicious intent, they could have easily killed him and ced the me on the now-deceased He Yuanwu, with no one left to dispute it.


    Ye Fei had suffered quite a bit during his captivity, leaving him weak.


    After taking two pills to stabilize his condition, he rested for a short while.


    With the night sky overhead, the three of them boarded a flying boat and began their return journey.


    "Fellow Daoist Ye, while you were imprisoned, did you notice any other aplices besides He Yuanwu?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "No, after imprisoning me, He Yuanwu interrogated me, but I had no contact with anyone else from the outside," Ye Fei replied.


    "Well, it¡¯s good that you made it back safely."


    Compared to the fate of the former peak master of Little Pill Peak, Ye Fei had been much more fortunate.


    He Yuanwu had captured him merely to hinder Huanglong Mountain, depriving Fu Xuemei of a capable healer.


    It was a simple, brutal n, but it had nearly seeded.


    ...


    Ten li away, inside the bamboo grove.


    Zhou Qingxuan, who had been sitting cross-legged in meditation, suddenly opened her eyes as she sensed the disturbance in the protective array outside.


    In the dark, there was a faint "squeak," followed byplete silence.


    Momentster, a small ck bird darted into the bamboo hut, holding amunication talisman in its beak.


    Zhou Qingxuan activated the talisman, and a calm male voice echoed in her ears:


    "I am grateful for Miss Zhou''s trust. However, I owe a debt to Huanglong Mountain, and given my past cooperation with the Zhou Family, I am reluctant to involve myself in the fight between you two."


    "If Miss Zhou is truly injured and in need of aid, feel free toe to Wuqi Mountain."


    After hearing the contents of the message, Zhou Qingxuan''s expression darkened, her eyes gleaming coldly like ice.


    "Lan Chang''an, you¡¯ve disappointed me greatly! I sincerely offered you a once-in-a-lifetime cooperation, and you don¡¯t even know how to grasp it," she muttered through gritted teeth, frustration and resentment evident in her voice.


    From her perspective, the greatest threat¡ªHuanglong Immortal¡ªhad already fallen.


    Yet her own strength had been diminished.


    Facing the heavily injured Fu Xuemei alone, her chances of sess were now slim.


    "Huanglong Immortal¡¯s final blow was truly vicious. If I can¡¯t obtain Huanglong Mountain¡¯s magical treasure or the Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s inner core, I''m afraid that it will be difficult for this body of mine to hope for True Dan¡­"


    Zhou Qingxuan murmured, her expression flickering with uncertainty.


    ...


    Late at night, back at Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, his brows furrowing as he stepped outside.


    Cough, cough! "Fellow Daoist Lan, I have urgent matters to discuss¡­" A familiar figure in a yellow dress appeared at the gates of Little Turtle Peak, pale-faced and coughing blood.


    "Miss Zhou, who hurt you so badly?" Lan Chang''an asked in surprise.


    He hadn¡¯t expected Zhou Qingxuan toe to him directly.


    Lan Rou, his maid, helped Zhou Qingxuan into the cave mansion.


    Little Turtle Peak was protected by a quasi-third-rank formation, and since this was Lan Chang''an¡¯s territory, he didn¡¯t mind negotiating with Zhou Qingxuan here.


    "It¡¯s nothing, just some internal injuries ring up," Zhou Qingxuan forced a smile, circting her magical power to restore some color to her face.


    Once inside, Lan Chang''an dismissed his maid.


    At Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s request, they came to a secret room, and Lan Chang''anid down restrictions.


    Taking a deep breath, Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s chest rose and fell as she steadied herself before speaking:


    "Fu Xuemei, the True Dan heir of Huanglong Mountain, is gravely injured. To deal with me, she has used up herst life-preserving card, a third-rank talisman."


    "This True Dan cultivator is carrying the treasures of Huanglong Mountain, including the petrified Huang Dragon Beast and even the chance of forming a Dan!"


    "Due to her severe injuries and her need to protect her brother, Fu Xuemei¡¯s escape has been slow. I have a unique beast-taming technique that allows me to sense the Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s aura from a distance."


    Without any pleasantries, Zhou Qingxuan got straight to the point,ying out the situation.


    Lan Chang''an could sense her inner urgency. It seemed she truly wanted to work with him, and at least she wasn¡¯t here to deceive him.


    "Such a grand inheritance and the key to forming a Core¡­ Why would Miss Zhoue to me instead of working with your family?" Lan Chang''an asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "There¡¯s no time. The Zhou Family is several days¡¯ journey from Wuqi Mountain. Besides, our family¡¯s old ancestor has already made it clear that they don¡¯t want to get involved in the Huanglong Mountain affair, fearing the repercussions."


    "So, Miss Zhou is acting independently?"


    "That¡¯s right," Zhou Qingxuan nodded. "To increase my chances, I initially partnered with He Yuanwu. All I want is the Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s inner core¡ªeverything else can ceded to my coborator."


    "Oh? So, if He Yuanwu died, how is it that you managed to escape unscathed?" Lan Chang''an asked pointedly.


    "I didn¡¯t escape unscathed. My quasi-third-rank spirit pet is gravely injured and unconscious. Though my injuries aren¡¯t fatal, they¡¯ve destabilized my dantian," Zhou Qingxuan replied, her eyes blinking as she tried to appear pitiful.


    "If you don¡¯t believe me, Fellow Daoist Lan, you can examine my body for yourself."


    Her eyshes fluttered, and she looked up at him, her expression soft and vulnerable.


    "I¡¯ll take your word for it."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head, showing no interest in examining her body.


    The fact that Zhou Qingxuan had returned alive was already impressive enough, and her injuries, while serious, didn¡¯t warrant close inspection.


    "How did Miss Zhou, as the party that was tracking, encounter Huanglong Immortal?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "I was tracking the Huang Dragon Beast. Earlier, it must have been in Huanglong Immortal¡¯s possession, and he was with Fu Xuemei and her brother.


    "Then, sensing that something was wrong, Huanglong Immortal must have handed the Huang Dragon Beast over to Fu Xuemei. He then attacked us from behind¡­"


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s expression was bitter, and fear lingered in her eyes as she recalled the ambush.


    Lan Chang''an was momentarily stunned. He hadn¡¯t expected the renowned Huanglong Immortal to y such a cunning trick at the end of his life.


    In hindsight, it made sense. Huanglong Immortal had only one chance to strike.


    If he had attacked head-on, he might not have achieved such a decisive oue.


    Instead, he had managed to kill the traitor He Yuanwu, seriously injure Zhou Qingxuan, and even damage her cultivation foundation.


    Of course, this was also the opportunity gained by going to Little Turtle Peak and trading with Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, have you made your decision? If we dy much longer, Fu Xuemei will recover some of her magical power, and we¡¯ll miss out on a once-in-centuries opportunity."


    Zhou Qingxuan smiled, her delicate features aglow with beauty.


    Her radiant face was as captivating as the tale she had woven.


    "Miss Zhou, I enjoy listening to your stories, but I have no intention of bing a character in one of them," Lan Chang''an chuckled, finishing his tea in one gulp.


    Hearing this, Zhou Qingxuan fell silent, her gaze locking onto the youthful-looking man in white before her.


    At that moment, it felt as though she were staring at an immovable stone, weathered by countless years and the tides of the world.


    "Miss Zhou, Little Turtle Peak does not entertain guests overnight," Lan Chang''an said as he rose to his feet.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I won¡¯t force cooperation. However, given my severe injuries, I hope you¡¯ll at least help me recover," Zhou Qingxuan pleaded softly.


    "My medical skills are mediocre. If your injuries aren¡¯t life-threatening, I suggest you visit Herbalist Ye at Little Pill Peak tomorrow." Lan Chang''an politely declined.


    After all, he was a talisman master, not a healer, and he didn¡¯t want to deviate from his path.


    Restoring people to full health and saving lives sounded noble, but it often entangled one in unwanted karmic ties and grudges.


    "I don¡¯t trust anyone else, and time is of the essence. There¡¯s no room forplications."


    "If you could heal Fu Xuemei, why won¡¯t you help me? We¡¯ve known each other for years, and I¡¯m more than willing to pay for your services," Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s voice trembled as she bit her lip, tears threatening to spill.


    Between them, Zhou Qingxuan certainly had a longer history with Lan Chang''an.


    "Is it because Fu Zhenren is prettier than I am, or because her cultivation is higher?"


    "That was a special case."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t bother to exin further. He simply raised his hand to signal that it was time for her to leave.


    With a look of deep resentment, Zhou Qingxuan turned to walk out.


    But just as she reached the door of the chamber, the girl in the yellow dress suddenly staggered and copsed to the ground.


    "You¡­"


    Lan Chang''an was speechless, suspecting that she might be faking it.


    But when he bent down to take a closer look, he saw blood trickling from Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s lips, and her forehead was drenched in cold sweat, making her appear genuinely unconscious.


    "Miss Zhou, are you alright?" Lan Chang''an asked warily, preparing to check on her condition.


    He leaned in, but just before he could touch her, he hesitated, sensing that something was off.


    Cough!


    Zhou Qingxuan coughed again.


    Puh!


    Her pink lips parted, and she suddenly spat out a stream of blue-tinged blood, aimed directly at Lan Chang''an¡¯s face.


    rmed, Lan Chang''an instinctively activated his protective barrier and dodged the main force of the blood. However, small droplets sttered onto his shield, causing it to corrode with a faint "sizzle."


    "Zhou Qingxuan!"


    Lan Chang''an shouted angrily, immediately summoning a stack of talismans.


    Just as he steadied himself, he noticed Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s expression had be eerie, her eyes glowing with a strange greenish light.


    Boom!


    A sharp chill shot through Lan Chang''an''s mind, and the next moment, his sea of consciousness was flooded with a cold, piercing sensation.


    In his sea of consciousness, he saw a small, jade-green translucent insect with countlesspound eyes and long, whip-like antennae, crawling into his sea of consciousness.


    "Jie Jie Jie¡­ Let us share this body of boundless vitality, together."


    "Hundred Abodes Soul Gu!"


    Lan Chang''an gasped in shock, immediately circting his spiritual sense to fortify his mind.


    Within seconds, he calmed himself and considered his options.


    The first was to use the spiritual sense techniques from his past life to counterattack.


    The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu was a soul-based creature, and ordinary spells had little effect against it.


    However, the bloodline of this insect far exceeded his expectations. At the very least, it was of a heavenly-grade bloodline, as its presence radiated a soul-level pressure that made Lan Chang''an''s sea of consciousness tremble.


    His spiritual sense techniques might work.


    The second option was to summon the full power of the Nine Seal Stele''s second life, a peak Core Formation stage existence. On the soul level, he was confident he could suppress the creature.


    "Hehehe¡­ Let this seat explore the deepest secrets of your mind," the green, ghostly insect cackled as it expanded in his vision, with a sense of recklessness that encroached on heaven and earth.


    Lan Chang''an''s thoughts turned, he made the decision to use his ultimate weapon.


    Just then, from the depths of his mind, the ancient and dormant Nine Seal Stele let out a faint hum.


    Hum!


    The ancient, mysterious stele, weathered and dark, suddenly emitted a pale gray light. In an instant, it enveloped the jade-green insect, pulling it away from Lan Chang''an¡¯s sea of consciousness.


    "No¡ª!"


    The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu''s voice was abruptly cut off as it vanished from Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind, leaving no trace behind.


    "Is¡­ that it?"


    Lan Chang''an blinked, momentarily stunned by the unexpected oue.


    He let out a slow breath of relief, knowing that it was the Nine Seal Stele that had just struck.


    His heart raced with excitement. This was the first time the Nine Seal Stele had ever acted like this in either of his previous lives.


    As he focused his mind on the Nine Seal Stele, he quickly discovered a new change!

 Chapter 196: The Transformation of the Nine Seal Stele

    The first three imprint frames on the Nine Seal Stele showed no change.


    The image of the refined man from the first life and the white-bearded elder from the second life were both illuminated.


    The third life, represented by a flowing white-robed man, had the exact appearance and demeanor of Lan Chang''an.


    However, the true transformation urred in the fourth nk frame on the Nine Seal Stele.


    ording to past spection, this nk frame symbolized Lan Chang''an''s "Fourth Life."


    At this moment, on the previously dark and silent fourth nk frame, a swirling pale white light shredded a vibrant green, crystalline Gu insect into fragments.


    Strands of pure white crystal light formed and began pouring into the fourth nk frame.


    The once lifeless and dim imprint slowly lit up a small portion at the top."The ''Fourth Life'' of the Nine Seal Stele... can be illuminated ahead of time?"


    Lan Chang''an''s mind trembled.


    Even though only a corner had lit up, it shattered his understanding from his past two lives, marking a breakthrough from nothingness into something tangible.


    Lan Chang''an had always believed that only after dying in his current life could the next reincarnation cycle be activated.


    But judging by the current situation, that might not be the case.


    "If I fully light up the fourth nk frame, does that mean I can control a new reincarnation at will? Or perhaps there''s another unknown power to be unlocked?"


    Spections filled Lan Chang''an''s mind.


    "Why did the Nine Seal Stele light up after devouring the ''Hundred Abodes Soul Gu''? What conditions are necessary for this?"


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had made many attempts to explore the powers of the Nine Seal Stele.


    He had captured vengeful spirits and malicious ghosts, but the stele showed no reaction.


    He also used some rare precious materials he could gather.


    Recalling what had just happened, Lan Chang''an pinpointed two key factors.


    First, his sea of consciousness had been invaded and inhabited, resembling an attempted possession.


    This was something Lan Chang''an had never experienced in his previous two lives.


    Possession carried great risk, with many limitations, depending heavily on the caster¡¯s cultivation and soul strength.


    Thoughmon in the vast world of cultivation, the actual chance of encountering it was rtively low for individual cultivators.


    Second, the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu was a legendary insect of the world, a rare soul-path creature with some connection to divine reincarnation arts.


    "That Soul Gu just now wasn''t particrly powerful, barely reaching the third-rank. However, its bloodline was extraordinary, and the essence contained in its soul far surpassed ordinary creatures."


    The bloodline of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu might even exceed the realm of heavenly-grade, approaching the level of a true spirit bloodline.


    The fact that the "Fourth Life" of the Nine Seal Stele had partially lit up could be rted to one or more of these traits.


    "Wait... did the Nine Seal Stele also steal memories when it devoured the ''Hundred Abodes Soul Gu''?"


    A sudden thought struck Lan Chang''an as he observed the small illuminated portion of the fourth nk frame.


    This idea arose because in his previous two lives, the soul imprints engraved on the stele had given him memories and abilities, including a feedback loop that strengthened his soul.


    However, there was no immediate response from the fourth frame, perhaps due to its ipleteness, or perhaps because it didn¡¯t belong to Lan Chang''an.


    "I''ll explore itter."


    With this thought, Lan Chang''an exited the Nine Seal Stele and returned to reality.


    The events that transpired in his consciousness took only a brief moment in the real world.


    ...


    In the secret room, the protective barriers remained intact.


    A delicate girl in a yellow dressy not far away, blood seeping from the corner of her mouth.


    "Her sea of consciousness is wounded, and she''s fallen unconscious?"


    Lan Chang''an nced at the girl and murmured softly.


    Zhou Qingxuan''s face was pale, her eyes tightly shut, and her brow furrowed in pain.


    Her condition was terrible. Not only had her body suffered injuries, but the separation of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu from her consciousness had inflicted severe damage on her mind.


    The Soul Gu and its host existed in a state of symbiosis, distinct from possession.


    Thus, when the Soul Gu was forcibly removed, it severely wounded Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sea of consciousness without killing her.


    Lan Chang''an was certain that the Soul Gu had likely left some contingencies in Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sea of consciousness, a backup n in case the parasitism failed.


    After all, the powers of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu were mainly dependent on its host.


    Without a host, the Soul Gu was like a rootless weed.


    "She won''t wake up for a while¡­"


    After confirming Zhou Qingxuan''s condition, Lan Chang''anid severalyers of restrictive spells on her body.


    As for how to deal with her, he hadn¡¯t made a decision yet.


    Setting aside the matter of the Soul Gu, he had no personal grievances with Zhou Qingxuan herself. In fact, they had a decent rtionship, as Lan Chang''an had once enjoyed a favorable period with the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    If he killed Zhou Qingxuan, Lan Chang''an would likely have to flee.


    Even though her visit to the Little Turtle Peak was discreet, there were still traces that could be followed.


    After a moment of contemtion, Lan Chang''an reached out and ced a hand on Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s forehead to examine her sea of consciousness.


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s cultivation was stronger than his, and as a genius beast tamer, her spiritual sense was only slightly inferior to his.


    In her weakened state, it would be easy for Lan Chang''an to nt deep restrictions in her sea of consciousness.


    "Sure enough¡­"


    Delving into Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sea of consciousness, Lan Chang''an discovered a transparent green insect egg radiating a sinister and dangerous aura.


    This was a high-level Gu insect restriction, one that even ate-stage Core Formation Immortal would struggle to resolve.


    The dangerous energy from the insect egg was slowly dispersing. Once it reached a certain threshold, it would explode, iming Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s life.


    This Gu insect restriction was far more advanced than any methods Lan Chang''an had used in his previous life.


    As such, nting his own restrictions in Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sea of consciousness was now pointless.


    Unless Lan Chang''an could gain control over the method to undo the Gu insect restriction.


    "Live or die, it¡¯s all up to fate now."


    Without any emotion on his face, Lan Chang''an closed his eyes and returned his consciousness to the Nine Seal Stele.


    The protective spells of the secret room remained intact, and themotion from earlier had not leaked to the outside world.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an''s consciousness attempted to merge with the "Fourth Life" of the Nine Seal Stele.


    The vast, dark, silent space showed no response.


    When his consciousness touched the small lit area, Lan Chang''an felt his mind reel, his body sinking into an endless abyss.


    In the next instant, he felt himself transform into a Gu insect, experiencing a flood of fragmented memories that kept pouring in.


    The immersive sensation was akin to a fleeting dream.


    Inparison to the reincarnations of his first and second lives, this was far less impactful.


    The biggest difference was that in his previous two lives, the skills and instincts he had mastered had naturally integrated into his current life.


    But as for the life memories of the Soul Gu, Lan Chang''an was more like a spectator, unable to carry those skills or experiences into reality.


    "The Heaven Honoured Continent... the Central State¡­ the pursuit by the Three Saints Temple¡­"


    "The strongest host of the main Soul Gu perished, forcing the Gu to split and flee. One fragment of the Soul Gu, by chance, passed through a spatial rift and escaped to the remote Qingzhou region."


    The memory Lan Chang''an experienced wasn¡¯tplete, likely due to the small size of the illuminated area, which limited the capacity.


    Most of the scenes were from the time after the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu had parasitized Zhou Qingxuan.


    There were fewer memories from earlier, especially regarding the main Soul Gu before it split in the Central State.


    Lan Chang''an had heard of the Central State in his past life after reaching the Core Formation Realm.


    It was said to be the oldest hub of cultivation civilization on the Heaven Honoured Continent, home to fifth-rank spiritual veins.


    Inparison, the Fenghua Continent where the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty resided was a more recent cultivation area, with a history less ancient than that of the Central State.


    The Three Saints Temple was a top-tier cultivation force in the Central State, and they had onceunched a hunt for the main body of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu.


    Unfortunately, the rted memories were iplete.


    From what Lan Chang''an could gather, the main host of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu had been a Nascent Soul cultivator who could easily kill ordinary Nascent Souls, capable of overturning heaven and earth.


    Yet, when pursued by the Three Saints Temple, the Soul Gu stood no chance.


    One memory fragment showed a Nascent Soulte-stage great cultivator''s towering figure, striking with a sky-shaking blow that turned the heavens and earth upside down.


    "The Central State is truly terrifying!"


    Even this fragmented memory left Lan Chang''an trembling with fear.


    That Nascent Soulte-stage expert from the Three Saints Temple might have been at the level of the legendary great cultivator, Yan Doni. Even the mighty Hundred Abodes Soul Gu had to flee in terror, splitting itself to survive.


    "So that¡¯s how it is¡­ Decades ago, in the ck Fog Mountain Range, that Heavenly Moon Wolf I encountered had been parasitized by one of the Soul Gu¡¯s fragments. That fragment may have been the only survivor, bing the new main Soul Gu."


    "The new main Soul Gu then split off a portion, first parasitizing the body of ¡®Chen Fuhai¡¯ from the Qingzhu Sect, hiding in the sect while it quietly developed."


    "I¡¯m not sure who leaked the news, but Chen Fuhai''s actions in the ''Green Underworld Mysterious Realm'' were very unsessful, obstructed at every turn, and very irritated."


    "Chen Fu Hai simply went crazy and let''s shift to the younger, more talented Zhou Qingxuan amidst the chaotic situation."


    As more memory fragments surfaced, Lan Chang''an gradually pieced together the story.


    "The Nine Seal Stele devoured a fragment of the Soul Gu and lit up a small part of the ''Fourth Life.'' If I could devour more fragments, or even the main Soul Gu..."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart was on fire.


    This was an opportunity to unlock the secrets of the Nine Seal Stele.


    His goal in this life was to reach the Nascent Soul Realm, ultimately to uncover the mystery of this reincarnation stone stele.


    To that end, even if he took a little risk, he would not hesitate to do so.


    In the past, Lan Chang''an had been wary of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, keeping his distance.


    But from what he had just experienced¡­


    The Nine Seal Stele seemed to be the nemesis of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, at least ensuring he didn¡¯t need to fear being parasitized.


    Even his second life''s overwhelming soul power hadn''t been this effective.


    "From the memories of this fragment, the main Soul Gu is limited by its cultivation level and distance, unable to perceive the specific details of what happens here. It can only sense a general state¡­"


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes flickered as he considered the possibility of using this to his advantage.


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf currently had a third-rank early-stage cultivation. Progressing further at that level would take a long time.


    As a demon beast, it wouldn¡¯t dare to cause trouble in the human world openly. At most, it would try to sneak in to probe the situation.


    "If my body-refinement manual reaches quasi-third-rank and I advance to thete-stage Foundation Establishment, I might be able to lure this underdeveloped main Soul Gu into a trap."


    The thought shed through Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind, but he quickly shook his head.


    It wasn¡¯t a question of whether it could be done.


    He suspected that the cunning and cautious Heavenly Moon Wolf, after losing a fragment in such a mysterious way, wouldn¡¯t dare to probe so recklessly.


    Even if it did, it would likely send more fragments in its ce, minimizing risk.


    "Wait¡­ There was something about the Gu insect restriction in Zhou Qingxuan''s sea of consciousness within the memories¡­"


    After a long while, Lan Chang''an found useful information in the Gu insect¡¯s memories.


    The restriction was difficult to cast and belonged to the innate abilities of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, something human cultivators couldn¡¯t easily learn.


    Completely dispelling it would be incredibly difficult.


    However, if it was just a matter of mastering the control switching method of the restriction, with Lan Chang''an''s realm insight of peak Core Formation in his previous life, it was not difficult toprehend it.


    ...


    In a deep valley within the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    A giant wolf with silver frost-like fur and long, muscr limbs crouched at the valley''s bottom, absorbing moonlight from the nine heavens above.


    "Instant annihtion? No information at all? It must have been the work of a Nascent Soul True Monarch or an Immortal Golden Dan expert!"[1]


    The Heavenly Moon Wolf shivered, its fur standing on end.


    "With this kind of ability, could it be that that brat is the reincarnation of the legendary great cultivator ''Yan Doni'' himself?"


    Yan Doni was one of the most mysterious and longest-livedte-stage Nascent Soul cultivators on the Heaven Honoured Continent.


    Rumors had it that this great cultivator had not truly died and had somehow left behind a legacy inter generations.


    "The n failed! I can''t stay in the ck Fog Mountain Range near Liang Kingdom any longer¡­"


    [1] Immortal Golden Dan = Core Formation cultivators with Golden Dan.

 Chapter 197: The Perfect Disguise

    Chapter 197: The Perfect Disguise


    The next morning, inside the secret room on Little Turtle Peak.


    Zhou Qingxuan slowly regained consciousness, her body stiff and sore, and her sea of consciousness throbbing with excruciating pain.


    "My mana... it''s sealed."


    Her pure, delicate face and yellow dress were stained with blood as shey on the cold floor.


    Instinctively, she reached for her waist, only to find that her storage pouch and pet pouch had disappeared.


    Momentster, the door to the secret room opened.


    A tall, jade-like man in white robes brushed past the girl in the yellow dress and sat cross-legged on a meditation cushion not far away.


    Zhou Qingxuan lifted her head to gaze at the familiar face of the man, his ck eyes deep and calm like a still well."Congrattions, Lord Gu Emperor, for getting what you wanted."


    Zhou Qingxuan forced a smile, her jade hands supporting the ground as she strained to get up.


    As a result, her injuries red up.


    Her knees buckled with a thump, leaving her in a half-kneeling position on the floor.


    Lan Chang''an gazed at the once-proud and pristine Zhou Family''s genius, who now looked pitiful and disheveled, her expression filled with awe and ttery.


    Once upon a time, as a mere Qi-Refining cultivator, Lan Chang''an had sought an audience with the Foundation Establishment Zhou Qingxuan, treating her with utmost respect as a junior, never daring to defy her.


    "Heh, so this was the rtionship between Miss Zhou and the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu?"


    Lan Chang''an chuckled lightly, a mocking smile on his face.


    "You¡­ you weren¡¯t taken over¡­?"


    Zhou Qingxuan''s expression shifted in disbelief.


    "You¡¯ve misunderstood, Miss Zhou. I was not controlled by the Soul Gu. Thanks to a unique talent, I managed to maintain a stalemate with it, retaining partial control over my body."


    Lan Chang''an exined in an unhurried manner.


    "So, the one speaking to me now... is the real Fellow Daoist Lan?"


    Zhou Qingxuan was still skeptical, her bright eyes fixed on him.


    "Indeed."


    After receiving confirmation, the yellow-dressed girl, still kneeling on the floor, flushed with embarrassment and shame.


    Previously, she and the Soul Gu had coexisted in a symbiotic rtionship, but the Soul Gu had dominated her body, keeping her fully subdued.


    In theory, if one''s attainments in the soul path were high enough, or if they possessed certain mystical abilities, they could suppress the Soul Gu and force it to serve them.


    As a beast-taming genius, Zhou Qingxuan was well aware of this fact.


    She had tried to regain partial control of her body, but had miserably failed.


    Lan Chang''an, who was targeted by the Soul Gu for parasitism, was obviously no ordinary cultivator, and evidently far more valuable and promising than she had been.


    For him to achieve what she couldn¡¯t implied that he possessed extraordinary potential, beyond even the Soul Gu¡¯s expectations.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, what do you n to do with me?"


    After a moment, Zhou Qingxuan calmed herself and knelt properly, smiling gracefully.


    Lan Chang''an replied, "ording to the Soul Gu''s n, after parasitizing me, it was going to activate the restriction in your sea of consciousness to eliminate any threats and keep its secrets safe."


    Upon hearing this, Zhou Qingxuan''s heart skipped a beat.


    It made sense for the Soul Gu to discard her after finding a more valuable host. The host before her, Chen Fuhai, had also died in the chaos of the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    "Given our long-standing acquaintance, I negotiated with the Soul Gu to win you a chance to live."


    Lan Chang''an exined his reasoning.


    He had initially considered impersonating the Soul Gu and directly intimidating Zhou Qingxuan into submission.


    However,cking the various abilities of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, he knew it would be easy to expose his ruse.


    If Zhou Qingxuan realized the truth, she would demonize him, lose all hope of survival, and potentially resort to desperate measures like a self-destructive, all-or-nothing approach.


    By portraying himself as someone in opposition to the Soul Gu, Lan Chang''an offered her a sliver of hope for survival.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I am eternally grateful for your life-saving grace. I will never forget this debt."


    Zhou Qingxuan knelt and bowed in gratitude.


    "Qingxuan is willing to serve as your concubine or maidservant if you would save me."


    The restriction in her sea of consciousness terrified Zhou Qingxuan deeply.


    Even if she managed to escape, the restriction would eventually activate and kill her.


    "Miss Zhou, you''re a once-in-a-century genius of the Zhou Family, with the potential to reach Core Formation. Your status is far too distinguished for me to dare offend."


    Lan Chang''an smiled.


    "To save Miss Zhou, I¡¯ve had to pay a hidden price. We might as well strike a deal."


    "Please, tell me what you have in mind."


    Zhou Qingxuan rxed slightly.


    Falling into Lan Chang''an¡¯s hands offered her a greater chance of survival than remaining under the control of the terrifying Soul Gu.


    "If I ever reach the Core Formation Realm, I¡¯ll return your freedom. But you must agree to two conditions."


    "First, you must swear an oath on your inner demons to never reveal anything about the Soul Gu''s parasitism of me."


    "Second, for the next sixty years, you will obey mymands and provide me with resources and protection for my cultivation."


    Lan Chang''anid out his conditions.


    At this stage, killing Zhou Qingxuan would be risky, forcing him to flee to another country.


    Thebination of an oath sworn on her inner demons and the Gu insect restriction would ensure Zhou Qingxuan kept his secrets, eliminating his concerns.


    In addition, he would gain a Foundation Establishment-level female servant.


    Or more urately, an "all-purpose assistant" who would follow his orders, supply resources, and offer protection as needed.


    Zhou Qingxuan wasn¡¯t just an individual; she represented the entire Zhou Family, a powerful beast-taming family dominating one part of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    ...


    After a brief moment of contemtion, Zhou Qingxuan agreed to the terms.


    "I trust Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s character and believe you will keep your word."


    She reasoned that, given her value to Lan Chang''an, her life wouldn¡¯t be in danger in the short term.


    Zhou Qingxuan could see a glimmer of hope and a chance to negotiate for her survival.


    Shortly after, Zhou Qingxuan swore her oath on her inner demons.


    "You''ve suffered enough, Miss Zhou."


    Lan Chang''an stepped forward, removing the restrictions on her body and returning her storage pouch and pet pouch.


    Zhou Qingxuan regained her spiritual power and gracefully stood, bowing slightly.


    "From now on, Fellow Daoist Lan may treat Qingxuan as his humble servant."


    "There''s no need for that. Just don¡¯t slip up when we¡¯re in front of others."


    Lan Chang''an reminded her.


    "I understand."


    Zhou Qingxuan smiled sweetly, surprised by Lan Chang''an¡¯s politeness.


    At this moment, she was entirely at his mercy.


    Lan Chang''an could clearly take whatever he wanted, but he didn''t reveal the so-called ¡°true colors¡± and act in a rude and angry manner.


    On the contrary, Zhou Qingxuan was a little disappointed in her heart.


    It meant that there wasn¡¯t an easy weakness she could exploit in him.


    Aside from her family background and cultivation, her beauty and youth were weapons she could use.


    "I¡¯ll arrange a guest room for you to recuperate."


    Lan Chang''an said.


    "Thank you for your trouble, Fellow Daoist Lan."


    Before long, Zhou Qingxuan settled into a guest room on Little Turtle Peak.


    "By the way, I should mention, Miss Zhou, while I haven¡¯t fully grasped the method to break the Gu insect restriction, the Soul Gu did pass on the technique to control it."


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an left her with this parting message.


    Alone in her guest room, Zhou Qingxuan sat in silence for a long time. Her delicate face showed a trace of bitterness and helplessness.


    "Lan Chang''an can coexist with the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, even using its powers. He¡¯s no ordinary cultivator. If he¡¯s truly blessed by fortune, he might actually have a chance at reaching Core Formation¡­"


    "Only, his cultivation speed is far too slow!"


    Zhou Qingxuan sighed and checked her storage pouch and pet pouch.


    The items in her storage pouch had clearly been searched.


    Most of her spirit stones and resources were still there.


    Only a few items were missing, including a rare material for Crystal Condensation Pills, two quasi-third-rank beast hides, and a few bottles of top-grade second-rank beast pills.


    As for her pet pouch, her severely injured quasi-third-rank spirit pet and several other second-rank pets were untouched.


    These spirit pets had been tamed by Zhou Qingxuan and bound to her through contracts. Even if someone else forcibly took them, they wouldn¡¯t be able to use them as battle power in the short term.


    "At least he knows his limits and didn¡¯t take too much¡­"


    Feeling somewhat reassured, Zhou Qingxuan took a few pills and began recuperating.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Zhou Qingxuan''s injuries had somewhat improved, but the wounds in her sea of consciousness would take much longer to heal.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want her staying in his cave for too long, as it might arouse suspicion from the outside world.


    Inside the secret room, the two conversed at length.


    Lan Chang''an took the opportunity to ask about the Zhou Family''s secrets, and Zhou Qingxuan answered candidly.


    For instance, the Zhou Family¡¯s trump card was an aging, quasi-third-rank spirit beast that served as the n¡¯s guardian.


    She also revealed details about the family''s treasured resources.


    Some of these treasures would be beneficial for Lan Chang''an''s spirit beast, the Earth Burrowing Rat, especially for its future attempt to break through to the third rank.


    Of course, she couldn¡¯t freely ess these resources and would need to apply for them, lest the Zhou Family Elders be suspicious.


    Lan Chang''an was quite satisfied with Zhou Qingxuan''s cooperation.


    "Given the severity of your injuries, it¡¯ll take some time to fully recover. You should go to Little Pill Peak or return to your family for healing."


    Lan Chang''an suggested.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, since we¡¯ll be working together for some time, why be so distant and cautious? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to rx a bit?"


    Zhou Qingxuan smiled mischievously.


    Having just bathed, her long, waterfall-like hair was slightly damp, and her pale yellow dress was spotless.


    "What are you suggesting?"


    "How about I pretend to be Fellow Daoist Lan''s lover?"


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s eyes sparkled mischievously as she leaned closer, her fragrance faint but captivating.


    "An interesting idea."


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment, not giving an immediate response.


    "Aren¡¯t you afraid the Zhou Family elders will object?"


    "In the Zhou Family, Qingxuan is the future ruler under one person and above ten thousand. As long as I don¡¯t marry anyone officially, they don¡¯t care about my private affairs."


    Zhou Qingxuan smiled charmingly, her eyes both pure and alluring as she wrapped her arm around Lan Chang''an¡¯s and leaned into him.


    "Miss Zhou, you mentioned ¡®pretending¡¯ earlier."


    Lan Chang''an pointed out.


    Zhou Qingxuan whispered softly, "Of course, I¡¯d like it to seem more real, so there¡¯s no risk of exposure."


    "Qingxuan has been cultivating for over a hundred years. I''ve taken Youth Retaining Pills and remain youthful. I¡¯m still untouched. If I were to pretend to be your lover, my inexperience might make it difficult. It would be a great honor to serve you."


    "It wouldn¡¯t be an imposition."


    Lan Chang''an replied thoughtfully, his hand naturally sliding to her slender waist.


    "Miss Zhou, you should think carefully. No matter how well you act, there won¡¯t be any extra benefits for you."


    "As long as Fellow Daoist Lan is satisfied with my performance, that¡¯s enough."


    Zhou Qingxuan''s bright eyes shimmered with a misty allure, and her face flushed as she tiptoed closer.


    The two embraced for a long moment. Zhou Qingxuan''s hand lightly moved to her waist, and her dress began to slip off.


    "Your injuries aren¡¯t healed yet."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head, stopping her.


    His physical body was strong, and he didn¡¯t want to engage in something that wouldn¡¯t be fully enjoyable.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s care is touching."


    Zhou Qingxuan''s gaze became more seductive, her half-undone dress draping as she knelt by his side, her graceful curves disyed submissively.


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an escorted the graceful, radiant girl in the yellow dress out of the cave.


    "Miss Zhou, stay at Little Pill Peak for now to heal. Once you''ve recovered most of your strength, you can return to your family."


    Lan Chang''an instructed.


    "I¡¯ll follow Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s arrangement."


    Zhou Qingxuan smiled, covering her lips delicately with her hand.


    ...


    A monthter.


    Having mostly recovered from her injuries, Zhou Qingxuan left Wuqi Mountain.


    Those paying close attention noticed that her rtionship with Lan Chang''an seemed closer than before.


    During this time, thete-stage Foundation Establishment Elder from the Zhou Family paid several visits to Little Turtle Peak.


    But considering their near-century-long acquaintance, no one found it particrly odd.


    ...


    In the blink of an eye, two years passed.


    Nothing major happened in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world, and the sects that had ventured into Feng Kingdom had all returned home.


    The major sects began consolidating their power, issuing tasks to eliminate rogue and evil cultivators who had risen to prominence.


    Some mid-tier and small sects, having colluded in rebellions, were purged by the dominant sects.


    Business at Wuqi Mountain gradually improved.


    During these two years, Zhou Qingxuan visited Wuqi Mountain several times, staying at Little Turtle Peak for a few days on each asion, signaling an unusual rtionship.


    Each time she came, Lan Chang''an received some cultivation resources or materials, at the very least of superior second-rank quality.


    The resources she brought often included pills that aided in Foundation Establishment cultivation, some of which were of superior quality.


    Lan Chang''an understood that Zhou Qingxuan was growing impatient with his slow cultivation progress and was trying to help him speed things up.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an, now 137 years old, was getting closer to reaching thete-stage Foundation Establishment.


    His body refinement manual was progressing even faster.


    Most of the third-rank spirit sand stones that Shen Bixin had helped collect had already been consumed.


    On this day, Lan Chang''an''s Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual finally broke through its shackles, reaching its highest, seventhyer!

 Chapter 198: Scheming for Core Formation

    Chapter 198: Scheming for Core Formation


    Inside the secret room of Little Turtle Peak.


    Boom!


    A palm, coursing with crystalline energy, mmed against the wall, causing the restriction¡ªcapable of withstanding multiple attacks from ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator¡ªto flicker violently before shattering.


    On the wall, made of second-rank ore, a deep handprint remained, about an inch deep.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes zed like torches, his aura so powerful it could rival that of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Once the glow of the restriction stabilized, he threw a punch into the air, and several zhang away, a cloud-like explosion of energy erupted.


    Squeak!


    In the corner, the Earth Burrowing Rat trembled, too scared to meet its master¡¯s gaze.Lan Chang''an quickly reined in the surging blood and qi of his powerful body, dismissing the idea of testing his strength on the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    "The seventhyer of the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual...this body refining manual has finally been cultivated to the highest level!"


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t hide the joy in his heart.


    Having quasi-third-rank body refinement was exceedingly rare in the entire Liang Kingdom.


    Even He Yuanwu in his heyday hadn¡¯t reached this level.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯sbat strength had undergone a qualitative leap!


    While he was not a pure ancient body cultivator, his strength wasn¡¯t far behind a fully-formed Fake Dan cultivator.


    Especially in terms of self-defense, his capabilities had increased significantly.


    Barring the use of talismanic treasures and other hidden trump cards, even a Fake Dan cultivator posed little threat to him now.


    "If I advance to thete-stage Foundation Establishment andbine it with my body refinement manual, I could easily dominate within the Liang Kingdom, and have the freedom to venture almost anywhere in the world."


    After a brief moment of pride, Lan Chang''an¡¯s mood became calm and focused once more.


    Aware of how vast the heaven and earth were, he understood his own insignificance even more profoundly.


    Especially after gaining fragmented memories about the Central State¡¯s cultivation world from the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu.


    "In the next few years, I just need to continue cultivating step by step until I reach thete-stage Foundation Establishment."


    Lan Chang''an set his goal.


    Additionally, his puppet-crafting skills had reached the peak of the second rank two years ago.


    In the years toe, he could start exploring higher levels of the craft.


    Bing a third-rank puppet master was unrealistic anytime soon. However, crafting a quasi-third-rank puppet while at thete-stage Foundation Establishment wasn¡¯t out of reach.


    The rewards he had received from Huanglong Immortal, after treating Fu Xuemei, included a third-rank puppet-crafting inheritance.


    This would save him a lot of trouble.


    ...


    "Master, Fairy Shi has returned."


    A few dayster, after leaving seclusion, Lan Chang''an¡¯s maid Lan Rou promptly came to report.


    Shi Manrong had recently gone to the me Departing Pce to attend the wedding of Song Wenshu and Shen Bixin.


    The me Departing Pce boasted a Nascent Soul True Monarch,te-stage Core Formation great cultivators, and even a Golden-Dan Immortal.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want to be there in person and found an excuse to excuse himself, instead sending Shi Manrong with avish gift in his ce.


    "Go to Xiao Pan Peak and invite Fairy Shi toe to my residence for a chat."


    Lan Chang''an instructed.


    Momentster, Lan Rou returned from Xiao Pan Peak, her expression hesitant.


    "Master, Fairy Shi said the journey was long, and she¡¯s feeling tired. She isn¡¯t in the mood to visit these next few days."


    "Hmm, we¡¯ll arrange it for another day then."


    Lan Chang''an mused, sensing a growing distance between them.


    In the past, when Lan Chang''an invited her, Shi Manrong rarely refused.


    Since Lan Chang''an had started pretending to be romantically involved with Zhou Qingxuan, their rtionship had subtly changed, growing more distant.


    Of course, their overall friendship remained intact, but it was no longer as close or candid as before.


    This didn¡¯t bother Lan Chang''an too much.


    Rtionships born from fleeting passions were never destined tost.


    In this world, how many immortal couples could truly staymitted and unchanging throughout their lives?


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an personally visited Xiao Pan Peak.


    This time, Shi Manrong did not refuse his visit.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you''re usually so busy. What brings you to my humble abode today?"


    Shi Manrong, dressed in a simple yet elegant moon-colored gown, had her hair neatly tied in a bun. She greeted him warmly, her voice soft and her smile gentle.


    "You tter me, Fairy Shi."


    Lan Chang''an maintained aposed demeanor and followed her into the cave residence on Xiao Pan Peak.


    Shi Manrong maintained her poise and grace, personally brewing a pot of spiritual tea for Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s visit wasn¡¯t without purpose, and after some small talk, the conversation eventually shifted to the recent wedding of Song Wenshu and Shen Bixin.


    "Fellow Daoist Song and Miss Shen¡¯s wedding at the me Departing Pce was grand and festive, with many distinguished guests attending. Over ten immortals were present."


    "The couple was deeply grateful for the gift Fellow Daoist Lan sent, and asked me to pass along their thanks."


    "Oh, and Jiang Yechen also attended the wedding. He got so drunk he was barely standing."


    "Jiang Yechen?"


    Lan Chang''an raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised.


    Jiang Yechen dared toe to the wedding, his guts were not small.


    But as long as he didn¡¯t cause trouble, the me Departing Pce likely wouldn¡¯t take action against him.


    After all, Jiang Yechen had once been in love with Shen Bixin, and Song Wenshu was, technically, the third party who cameter.


    If something happened to Jiang Yechen after the wedding, Song Wenshu would be the prime suspect.


    "Hmm, I spoke with Fellow Daoist Jiang. Given his past temperament, it was surprising to see him so restrained at the wedding."


    Shi Manrong recalled Jiang Yechen¡¯s pale face, his eyes bloodshot.


    "Fairy Shi, during your time at the me Departing Pce, did you hear any news about the war in Feng Kingdom?"


    Lan Chang''an shifted the conversation to a topic of concern.


    More than a year ago, the Liang Kingdom sects had begun withdrawing their forces from Feng Kingdom.


    Those who hadn¡¯t returned by now were most likely nevering back.


    "There¡¯s been a temporary ceasefire on the Feng Kingdom battlefield."


    Shi Manrong shared the information she had gathered.


    "ording to some rumors, Feng Kingdom, Yan Kingdom, and Chen Kingdom have sent representatives to begin peace negotiations."


    "Peace negotiations?"


    Lan Chang''an was taken aback.


    The war in Feng Kingdom had raged for over twenty years without a clear victor.


    Feng Kingdom, as the strongest of the neighboring cultivation nations, had a long history and incredible resilience.


    It had three Nascent Soul-level sects.


    Had it not been for the rise of a peerless genius like Chu Tianfeng in Yan Kingdom, who allied with Chen Kingdom tounch a surprise attack early on, the resistance would have been far greater.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s surprise was more out of admiration for Tian Zhi Pavilion¡¯s foresight.


    Three years ago, Tian Zhi Pavilion had already predicted this potential oue, mentioning that there might be a turn of events in the future, and that peace talks were not out of the question.


    Tian Zhi Pavilion had also spected that, in the distant future, the Liang Kingdom itself might face war.


    This was tied to the eastward expansion of the Six Sect of the Devil''s Path.


    The news brought back by Shi Manrong allowed Lan Chang''an to have a clearer n for the future.


    ...


    Confirming the developments on the neighboring battlefield was only one reason for Lan Chang''an¡¯s visit.


    "So, Fairy Shi, have you made a decision regarding that matter?"


    Lan Chang''an suddenly turned to voice transmission.


    Shi Manrong understood the hint and immediately set up a soundproof barrier around them.


    "I¡¯ve nearly reached the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage. In about two years, I¡¯ll have the chance to break through to the Core Formation Realm. To grasp that opportunity, we¡¯ll need to explore that ancient ruin within the next few years."


    Shi Manrong shared her decision.


    "However, the key memories about the ancient ruins still haven¡¯t resurfaced. All I¡¯ve managed to do is pinpoint arge area in the ck Fog Mountain Range."


    "And has Jiang Yechen agreed to help restore your memories?"


    "No, we couldn¡¯t reach an agreement."


    Shi Manrong shook her head and sighed softly.


    "Restoring my memories would drain the spiritual essence of an important treasure Jiang Yechen possesses."


    "Back then, I couldn¡¯t sessfully reconcile Fellow Daoist Jiang and Miss Shen. Because of that, he¡¯s unwilling to help for free, and the price he¡¯s asking for is quite steep."


    "Oh? What does Jiang Yechen want?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s curiosity was piqued.


    "He¡¯s asking for one of the main ingredients for Core Formation, or two rare auxiliary herbs. Alternatively, a high-quality Core Formation spiritual item would also suffice."


    Shi Manrong¡¯s lips pursed, and a faint frown appeared on her delicate face.


    "Core Formation items?"


    Lan Chang''an chuckled, "Perhaps Fellow Daoist Jiang is still upset about the past and feels that you, as the ''matchmaker,'' didn¡¯t do your job well enough."


    "Stop making fun of me! Fellow Daoist Lan, give me some advice."


    Shi Manrong rolled her eyes at him, her tone half-exasperated.


    "It seems to me that Jiang Yechen is only asking for such a high price because he doesn¡¯t want to drain the spiritual essence of his treasure. He has no intention of making a deal."


    Lan Chang''an spected.


    "We have two options."


    "First, we can pay the exorbitant price and purchase the materials Fellow Daoist Jiang needs, or find another way to persuade him."


    Shi Manrong remained expressionless.


    Lan Chang''an smiled, knowing full well that at this stage, no one would willingly give up materials needed for Core Formation.


    "Second, we could take it by force, killing him and seizing the treasure."


    Lan Chang''an spoke in a calm tone.


    Shi Manrong¡¯s eyes shed with surprise as she looked at him, but she remained silent.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that she might have already considered this.


    When the opportunity for Core Formation arose, even a righteous cultivator with a century of good deeds might be willing to break their moral boundaries.


    Forming a True Dan would grant one the status of a high-level cultivator, with a lifespan of five or six hundred years.


    For any Foundation Establishment cultivator, this was an irresistible temptation.


    "I have a sense of unease about taking action against Fellow Daoist Jiang."


    After a long pause, Shi Manrong sighed deeply.


    "In recent years, Fellow Daoist Jiang has gained quite a reputation, even killing ate-stage Foundation Establishment evil cultivator who was wanted by the sects head-on. That evil cultivator wasn¡¯t much weaker than the Night Fisherman."


    "Jiang Yechen is growing so quickly?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered this new information.


    "Secondly, even if we were to seize the treasure, I¡¯m not sure it would work for me. Restoring my memories might require a special method or a unique bond with the treasure."


    Shi Manrong shared her concerns.


    "You¡¯re right to be cautious."


    Lan Chang''an acknowledged her reasoning. Certain special treasures could be bound to a specific individual or require unique techniques to use.


    There was also the possibility that if Jiang Yechen were cornered, he might destroy the treasure before he died, preventing anyone else from benefiting.


    "Let¡¯s do this, you continue trying to persuade Fellow Daoist Jiang. Whether we act or not can wait until after I¡¯ve broken through to thete-stage Foundation Establishment."


    Lan Chang''an suggested.


    Shi Manrong nodded in agreement.


    She had not yet reached the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage. With more preparation, her chances of sess, whether dealing with Jiang Yechen or exploring the ancient ruin, would improve.


    After their serious discussion, Lan Chang''an suddenly chuckled.


    "Why are youughing, Fellow Daoist Lan?"


    "Ahem! I just realized that our ¡®scheming¡¯ earlier was rather amusing."


    Lan Chang''an realized he had let his guard down.


    The scene from earlier had felt like two scheming viins plotting the downfall of the true protagonist.


    From his experience before transmigrating, this kind of plot would fail nine out of ten, often resulting in more harm than good.


    Shi Manrong thought for a moment, and as a certain phrase came to mind, her cheeks flushed slightly.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, please behave. Our rtionship isn¡¯t what it used to be. Don¡¯t tarnish my reputation."


    She huffed in mock anger, lightly scolding him as she escorted him out of her cave.


    ...


    Three monthster.


    At the lotus-scented pool on Little Turtle Peak.


    After finishing his daily cultivation routine, Lan Chang''any on the back of his massive Profound Water Turtle.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat scurried across the water, delivering a letter to Lan Chang''an¡¯s hand.


    Thanks to the Zhou Family¡¯s beast pills and resources over the past two years, the Earth Burrowing Rat had been cultivating at a significantly faster pace.


    Even the Profound Water Turtle had benefited somewhat.


    However, the Profound Water Turtle shared a simr trait with Lan Chang''an in its cultivation: it progressed slowly.


    With a steady supply of resources, the turtle¡¯s cultivation would gradually increase.


    But if overloaded with too many resources at once, the effects would diminish, and it would lose efficiency.


    In terms of age limits, the Profound Water Turtle only fared slightly better than Lan Chang''an.


    If he were willing to spend ten or even a hundred times more resources, the turtle could elerate its growth.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao¡¯s efforts to gather Core Formation materials aren¡¯t going well..."


    Lan Chang''an murmured as he read through the letter.


    The letter from Zhao Siyao didn¡¯t explicitly ask for help but subtly conveyed her struggles.


    Over the years, Zhao Siyao and Zhang Tieshan, having returned from the battlefield, had been preparing for Core Formation.


    The two had earned great merits on the battlefield and had even worked together to y a Fake Dan cultivator.


    However, Zhao Siyao¡¯s achievements in the war paled inparison to Zhang Tieshan¡¯s.


    Zhang Tieshan had been part of the first batch sent to the battlefield and had umted considerable merit, with rewards far surpassing Zhao Siyao¡¯s.


    Even before going to the battlefield, Lan Chang''an knew that Zhang Tieshan was already well-off.


    Coupled with his ster performance during the war and the favor he had gained from senior elders, Zhang Tieshan had managed to secure a Crystal Condensation Pill from Jin Yun Valley. His Core Formation was almost guaranteed.


    Zhao Siyao, on the other hand, fell short in terms of reputation, strength, and merit.


    Despite reaching the peak of thete-stage Foundation Establishment, Zhao Siyao was unlikely to receive a Crystal Condensation Pill from her sect within the next ten years, let alone the other spiritual items needed for Core Formation.


    At the age of 130, every passing year would slightly lower her chances of sess in Core Formation.


    After 150, the chances would drop drastically.


    ...


    "A century of cultivation to reach this point¡ªjust having the qualifications to attempt Core Formation puts her ahead of 99% of cultivators."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze deepened as he reflected on the passage of time.


    Old acquaintances like Lin Yi, Li Erqing, Mu Xiuyun, and Mu Maode had all fallen behind.


    Some had died or passed away. Others had stagnated, losing their potential.


    To outsiders, Lan Chang''an, who had yet to reach thete-stage Foundation Establishment at his age, seemed to have no hope of forming a Core.


    Compared to Zhao Siyao or Zhang Tieshan, he was decades behind in cultivation progress.


    However, no one knew that Lan Chang''an had already secured a near-certain path to Core Formation in this life.


    His goal now was to ensure the highest possible quality of the Core to maximize his chances of forming a Nascent Soul.


    After a while, Lan Chang''an snapped back to reality.


    He gestured for the Earth Burrowing Rat to bring over writing materials, which it did, scampering across the back of the Profound Water Turtle.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, every cultivator who reaches this point has faced countless hardships. None of us have had it easy."


    "Three parts depend on the person, seven parts depend on Heaven''s destiny. When ites to Core Formation, there¡¯s only so much I can do to help."


    With that, Lan Chang''an finished writing a reply letter.

 Chapter 199: An Old Friend Becomes an Immortal

    Chapter 199: An Old Friend Bes an Immortal


    Half a yearter.


    At the top of Little Turtle Peak, by the poolside pavilion.


    "Big Brother Lan! Upon seeing you this time, I can sense that your spiritual power is close to breaking through to thete-stage Foundation Establishment."


    A young girl in a yellow dress, beautiful as jade, spoke with a crisp voice, her eyes shining brightly. She acted like a devoted concubine, massaging Lan Chang''an''s shoulders and back.


    "In seven years, the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm will open once again."


    "With your extraordinary strength, Big Brother Lan, once you reach thete-stage Foundation Establishment, few will be your match in the secret realm. At that time, you¡¯ll have a good chance to obtain opportunities for Core Formation."


    "Green Underworld Mysterious Realm?"


    Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred as he calcted the time.Thest time the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm had opened, he had been 96 years old, just at the early-stage Foundation Establishment.


    Most of the cultivators who participated in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm were mid- tote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators with deep roots.


    "Are you so certain that I will break through to thete-stage Foundation Establishment? Besides, it''s not easy for non-sect cultivators to secure a spot in the secret realm."


    Lan Chang''an''s tone remained calm and unperturbed.


    Due to the prediction from Tian Zhi Pavilion several years ago, he had a feeling that he might not make it to the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm in time.


    "Big Brother Lan, your magical power is pure, and your foundation is solid. Although your cultivation progress has been slow, it''s not stagnant. I believe not only will you reach thete-stage Foundation Establishment, but if you try to form a Core one day, your chances will far exceed those of ordinary people."


    Zhou Qingxuan''s smile was sweet, her dimples blooming as she beamed at him.


    Her confidence in Lan Chang''an stemmed from his ability to resist and take control over his body from the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, a feat that even the true disciples of Nascent Soul-level sects would most likely not be able to do.


    "As for the spot in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, if Big Brother Lan is willing, my Zhou Family can help you secure one."


    Compared to loose cultivators, sects and cultivation families had better ess to such opportunities, but they also had to fight for it and pay a small price.


    Moreover, each sect¡¯s Foundation Establishment cultivators only had one chance in their lifetime to enter the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    For example, Zhao Siyao, who had entered the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm forty years ago, would not be qualified this time.


    "Miss Zhou, I appreciate your kindness. If that timees, we can discuss it further."


    Lan Chang''an nced at the obedient and thoughtful girl in the yellow dress.


    She was young, beautiful, from a prestigious family, highly talented, and exceedingly powerful. She was taking the initiative to please him, nning for his future¡ªan ideal partner in the eyes of most men.


    However, Lan Chang''an was well aware that there was no such thing as kindness without reason, nor was there any such thing as a perfect partner.


    Zhou Qingxuan''s attempts to tter him were due to the double constraints of the Gu insect''s restriction and her heart demon oath.


    Her life and future were firmly in his hands.


    The real Zhou Qingxuan was cunning and resourceful, with a tendency to scheme, and never soft when it came to pitting people.


    Years ago, outside the Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market, in order to survive, she had not hesitated to cut off her uncle''s arm.


    She had also sold Lan Chang''an a defective pill at a discount.


    Of course, her character wasn¡¯t particrly malevolent.


    Back in Huanglong Immortal City, when Lan Chang''an, still in the Qi-Refining stage, visited to help the Mu Family purchase a second-rank spirit beast, Zhou Qingxuan showed a pragmatic attitude. Though she had been somewhat aloof, she had ultimately honored the favor.


    "I have some good news for you, Big Brother Lan."


    Zhou Qingxuan smiled sweetly and, snuggling up next to Lan Chang''an, sat down. A delicate fragrance filled the air.


    "My Zhou Family''s ''Blood Spirit Pool'' has the effect of purifying the physique of spirit beasts, and in addition to significantly boosting cultivation, it can also slightly promote the bloodline."


    "However, the Blood Spirit Pool only opens once every few years, consuming a lot of rare materials. The spots are limited, and it¡¯s rarely open to outsiders. After much effort, I managed to convince my grandfather to consider squeezing out a spot."


    "What does your grandfather want in return?"


    Lan Chang''an knew that Zhou Qingxuan''s grandfather was none other than the Zhou Family''s Fake Dan ancestor, a well-established figure.


    "My grandfather wants to meet you."


    Zhou Qingxuan nced at him and quickly added, "This is not my idea; it¡¯s my grandfather¡¯s personal wish. If you don¡¯t want to go, no one will force you."


    "When will the Blood Spirit Pool open? And is there only one spot?"


    Naturally, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want to visit the Zhou Family. He wondered if there was a more flexible way¡ªperhaps if the price was right, he could buy a spot without owing any favors to the Zhou Family.


    "Probably within a year or two," Zhou Qingxuan answered.


    "Thepetition within the Zhou Family is fierce, and there is only one spot. I suggest sending the Profound Water Turtle, as its earth-grade bloodline could benefit the most."


    ...


    Three dayster, Zhou Qingxuan left Little Turtle Peak on her flying beast.


    Before parting, she mentioned that arge auction would be held at Liaoyuan Immortal City in two months.


    This auction was a once-in-a-decade event, and items rted to Core Formation would be avable for bidding.


    Lan Chang''an declined Zhou Qingxuan''s invitation to attend the auction together, citing his need to focus on cultivation.


    Regarding this auction, more than one friend mentioned it to Lan Chang''an.


    One monthter.


    A woman with a cold, elegant demeanor, dressed in fluttering immortal robes, arrived as scheduled. She was ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, you¡¯ve arrived."


    Lan Chang''an smiled as he weed Zhao Siyao to the pavilion by the pool.


    Zhao Siyao took in the refreshing scent of lotus flowers, nced at the blooming lotuses, and noticed the Profound Water Turtlezily floating in the pool. She couldn¡¯t help but feel her mood lighten.


    She smiled and said, "Every time I visit Little Turtle Peak, I feel particrly rxed, as if my mind is at peace."


    Zhao Siyao was on her way to attend the auction in Liaoyuan Immortal City. Although it wasn¡¯t exactly on her way, she had kept her promise to visit Little Turtle Peak.


    "If you like, Fellow Daoist Zhao, you¡¯re wee to stay at Little Turtle Peak for a few days."


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t just making small talk.


    Normally, he wouldn¡¯t allow female cultivators to stay overnight.


    But Zhao Siyao was the cultivator he trusted most in this life. They had known each other since their youth and had walked this path together to where they stood today.


    "Thank you for the offer, but I must decline."


    Zhao Siyao politely refused.


    In over a hundred years of acquaintance, she had never spent the night at Lan Chang''an¡¯s residence.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao has reached the peak of the Foundation Establishment Realm and is preparing for Core Formation. Have there been any recent developments?"


    After some idle conversation, Lan Chang''an got to the heart of the matter.


    "Among the Foundation Establishment cultivators of Jin Yun Valley, my aptitude isn¡¯t exceptional, and I don¡¯t have the backing of a True Dan elder. It¡¯ll be impossible to exchange for a Crystal Condensation Pill from the sect within the next ten years. Even after waiting more than a decade in line, someone could easily cut in."


    Zhao Siyao spoke candidly about her situation in Jin Yun Valley.


    She confided these frustrations only to Lan Chang''an, someone she could trust. To others, she remained the aloof, untouchable Fairy Jade Moon.


    Lan Chang''an knew that in her early years at Jin Yun Valley, Zhao Siyao had rejected certain unspoken rules, particrly when she was at the cusp of the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    And now, she faced a simr dilemma at the threshold of Core Formation.


    Opportunities for Core Formation in Jin Yun Valley were top-tier strategic resources.


    Even female cultivators willing to trade their bodies would often find their efforts fruitless, and it was very likely that they would be cheated.


    "I¡¯ve only gathered about thirty percent of the materials for the Crystal Condensation Pill. The most critical ingredient, the ¡®Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower,¡¯ and two rare auxiliary herbs are nearly impossible to find."


    "On the bright side, I did manage to acquire a regr Core Formation spiritual item two years ago, though it only slightly improves the quality of the Core."


    Zhao Siyao no longer expected to exchange for a Crystal Condensation Pill from her sect and was hoping to seek external help, much like she had during the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Lan Chang''an understood that Zhao Siyao, given her aptitude and age, couldn¡¯t afford to wait more than ten years.


    The longer she waited, the lower her chances of sess in Core Formation.


    "The uingrge-scale auction in Liaoyuan Immortal City may offer a chance. If Fellow Daoist Lan is interested, you could join us. Even Tan''er and the others will be attending soon..."


    Zhao Siyao extended an invitation.


    "I¡¯ve already secured a breakthrough pill for thete-stage Foundation Establishment, so I¡¯ll skip the auction."


    As he spoke, Lan Chang''an took out a silk pouch and handed it to Zhao Siyao.


    "This is a small token from me. I hope Fellow Daoist Zhao will gain something worthwhile at the auction."


    In hisst letter, Lan Chang''an had mentioned that he couldn¡¯t offer much help but could lend a few thousand spirit stones as a gesture of goodwill.


    "Since returning from the war in Feng Kingdom, I¡¯ve been unable to repay you. I feel ashamed to ept these spirit stones..."


    Zhao Siyao bit her lip, her face showing signs of embarrassment as she epted the pouch.


    Lan Chang''an recalled a particr moment.


    Outside Jin Yun Valley, the two had shared a private conversation, almost breaking through the boundary between them.


    "Lan Chang''an, such a great favor, how do you expect me to repay you?"


    At that time, Zhao Siyao had gazed into his eyes and asked those very words.


    Lan Chang''an naturally understood the implication.


    It had been the closest they¡¯d evere to something more, but in the end, they hadn¡¯t crossed that line.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, there¡¯s no need to feel burdened. This is just a loan. You¡¯ll repay the spirit stonester."


    Lan Chang''an rified.


    "If I fail to form a Core and end up dying, Fellow Daoist Lan will be making a rather poor investment."


    Zhao Siyaoughed lightly.


    Catching her yful tone, Lan Chang''an responded calmly, "If you can¡¯t repay me, I trust Zhao Tan¡¯er will take on her master¡¯s debt. With her potential, a few thousand spirit stones shouldn¡¯t be much of an issue."


    Zhao Siyao found herself at a loss for words.


    For someone of Lan Chang''an¡¯s current status, the risk of losing a few thousand spirit stones was negligible.


    "Is Fellow Daoist Zhang nning to attend the auction?"


    Lan Chang''an shifted the topic, curious about Zhang Tieshan¡¯s progress toward Core Formation.


    "Senior Brother Zhang has nearly gathered all the materials for Core Formation and is only waiting to exchange for a Crystal Condensation Pill. He doesn¡¯t n to leave Jin Yun Valley until after he forms his Core."


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s tone carried a hint of envy.


    Lan Chang''an was taken aback by Zhang Tieshan''s rapid progress.


    The two had entered Jin Yun Valley at the same time in their youth.


    While Zhang Tieshan had always possessed great willpower, winning first ce in the illusion heart tform, he hadn¡¯t been superior to Zhao Siyao in other aspects.


    Both had entered the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm and participated in the same wars.


    However, Zhang Tieshan consistently gained more from every opportunity.


    Through over a hundred years of cultivation and numerous experiences, the gap between them had gradually widened.


    On further reflection, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t too surprised.


    After all, he had suspected early on that Zhang Tieshan had some hidden fortuitous encounters.


    ...


    At Little Turtle Peak, after bidding farewell to Zhao Siyao, Lan Chang''an once again declined the invitation to attend the auction.


    Half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an quietly left Wuqi Mountain, using the Hundred Illusions Mask to disguise himself before heading to Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    Given the auction¡¯s scale, it presented many business opportunities.


    Lan Chang''an wanted to act discreetly, selling off some of his handmade puppets and pills, as well as clearing out a batch of old talismans.


    He also nned to acquire various resources.


    For instance, Life Extension Pills, materials for quasi-third-rank puppets, and talisman-making materials.


    If the opportunity arose, he wouldn¡¯t pass up third-rank talisman materials either.


    Once he advanced to thete-stage Foundation Establishment, his spiritual sense would improve even further.


    At that point, with the help of Immortal Mist Tea, he could attempt to craft third-rank talismans.


    "At 138 years old..."


    Upon arriving in Liaoyuan Immortal City, Lan Chang''an sensed the subtle passage of time on his body. He had been cultivating in this life for 120 years.


    The auction was still a few days away.


    The city¡¯s inns were fully booked, packed with cultivators from across the Liang Kingdom.


    Shops had also stocked up on high-end items.


    At this time, ordinary goods were cheap, while rare resources had be even more expensive.


    Disguised, Lan Chang''an sold his puppets, talismans, and pills in batches.


    His stock of puppets, in particr, fetched the most spirit stones, amounting to over twenty thousand.


    Lan Chang''an kept only two top-grade second-rank puppets.


    Before the auction began, he had managed to purchase a batch of talisman and puppet materials, including a small amount of quasi-third-rank resources.


    As for third-rank materials, those would have to wait for the auction, where he could bid ordingly.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an left Liaoyuan Immortal City with a palpitating heart.


    "Midway through the auction, ate-stage Core Formation great cultivator unexpectedly joined the bidding and bought away a high-quality Core Formation item. No one daredpete."


    Reflecting on the event, Lan Chang''an felt fortunate that there hadn¡¯t been any danger, but the theoretical risk was still present.


    In past auctions, the highest-ranking participants were usually mid-stage Core Formation cultivators.


    With his Evergreen Technique''s level and the Hundred Illusions Mask, there was no certainty that he would be able to hide from the deliberate probing of ate Core Formation cultivator.


    The effect of the Hundred Illusions Mask was tied to the spiritual sense of its user.


    Fortunately, with so many cultivators present, the Core Formation elder hadn¡¯t taken the trouble to investigate a seemingly insignificant Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The Core Formation item,parable to "Tianjing Water," was something Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t dared to bid on. Even without thete-stage Core Formation great cultivator, there had been dozens of other Core Formation cultivators present.


    Core Formation items were primarily used to improve the quality of one¡¯s Core or offered unique benefits. Different types of Core Formation items could theoretically be used together.


    Lan Chang''an had gained a few valuable items from the auction.


    Before thete-stage Core Formation cultivator appeared, he had managed to purchase a Life Extension Pill and a piece of mid-grade third-rank spiritual wood.


    Many rare resources had been tempting, but Lan Chang''an¡¯s caution stopped him from making further bids. Otherwise, he risked drawing the attention of Core Formation cultivators.


    Several familiar faces, such as Zhao Siyao and her disciples, Li Congren, and members of the Zhou Family, were present at the auction, but Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t greeted any of them.


    ...


    Upon returning to Wuqi Mountain, Lan Chang''an stored the mid-grade third-rank spiritual wood for future use.


    Afterward, he consumed the Life Extension Pill he had obtained at the auction.


    This was the fifth second-rank Life Extension Pill Lan Chang''an had taken.


    "Extended lifespan by eight years."


    After a moment, Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, feeling the diminishing effects of second-rank Life Extension Pills.


    The first pill he had taken had extended his life by 23 years.


    The previous pill had extended his life by 11 years.


    Still,pared to other cultivators, being able to stack Life Extension Pills of the same rank was already rare.


    At this point, Lan Chang''an¡¯s lifespan had reached 469 years and six months.


    The only regret was that he had yet to take a superior Life Extension Pill.


    "Taking multiple Life Extension Pills has had its benefits. With the extension of my lifespan, my magical power quality has also slightly improvedpared to my mid-stage Foundation Establishment self."


    Lan Chang''an sat in meditation for half a day, reflecting on the changespared to 30 years ago.


    For most cultivators, magical power only increased in quantity within a given minor stage.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s Evergreen mana had grown stronger, enhancing his Foundation Establishment spiritual fire and even his healing abilities.


    His cultivation speed had also improved slightly.


    This exined why, after reaching the Foundation Establishment Realm, Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation speed wasparable to that of someone with mid-grade spiritual roots.


    Of course, this was only when measuring by normal speed.


    If a mid-grade spiritual root cultivator received top-tier resources, they would still outpace Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    Lan Chang''an sensed that his cultivation was nearing the upper limit of the mid-stage Foundation Establishment.


    He estimated that by the time he reached 140 years old, he would be able to attempt the breakthrough to thete-stage Foundation Establishment.


    After finishing his daily cultivation and nurturing his treasure talismans, Lan Chang''an stepped out of his cave mansion.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat delivered two letters to Lan Chang''an.


    One was an invitation.


    Both came from Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an looked at the invitation, noting the name on it¡ª"Tianfeng Immortal."


    The title was unfamiliar, but the handwriting was familiar.


    In the center of the invitation were four gilded characters: "Core Formation Celebration!"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression shifted slightly in surprise.


    First, Zhang Tieshan had achieved Core Formation much faster than expected.


    Lan Chang''an even felt it was somewhat rushed.


    Given Zhang Tieshan¡¯s usual methodical approach, even after obtaining a Crystal Condensation Pill, he should have taken the time to fine-tune everything to perfection before attempting the breakthrough.


    Second, the invitation¡¯s wording was strangely modest.


    "A small Core Formation Celebration?"


    If Zhang Tieshan had sessfully formed a True Dan, it would undoubtedly have been a grand Core Formation ceremony.


    Most Fake Dan cultivators would host a grand ceremony and invite many fellow cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an opened the second letter, which was from Zhao Siyao.


    "Senior Brother Zhang obtained an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill and recently attempted Core Formation. In the end, he achieved a Grey Dan and took the Daoist title of ''Tianfeng Immortal''..."


    Zhao Siyao detailed Zhang Tieshan¡¯s Core Formation process in her letter.


    "Zhang Tieshan only managed to form a Fake Dan?"


    Given Zhang Tieshan''s potential, this should have been considered a decent achievement, yet Lan Chang''an felt something was off.


    "Something strange is going on..."


    Lan Chang''an furrowed his brow, deep in thought.


    He and Zhang Tieshan had known each other for over a hundred years, and his instincts told him that something about this Core Formation didn¡¯t seem right.

 Chapter 200: Border Closure

    Chapter 200: Border Closure


    The letter did not provide detailed information about Zhang Tieshan¡¯s Core Formation process.


    For instance, why did he only obtain an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill?


    Given Zhang Tieshan¡¯s battle merits, wealth, and connections within the sect, it was expected that he would be awarded a genuine Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Zhao Siyao might not have beenfortable divulging such sensitive information in her letter.


    ¡°The quality of one¡¯s Core can theoretically be hidden,¡± Lan Chang''an thought.


    Having reached the peak of Core Formation in his previous life, he was privy to many secrets.


    For example, if Lan Chang''an were to achieve a superior-quality True Dan in the future, he could use the Evergreen Technique¡¯s aura-concealing abilities to disguise it as a middle or low-quality Core.


    However, this scenario likely didn¡¯t apply to Zhang Tieshan.The difference between a True Dan and a Fake Dan was significant, and the phenomena during Core Formation were difficult to conceal.


    Zhang Tieshan hadn¡¯t secretly formed his Core in some isted ce; he did it at Jin Yun Valley¡¯s third-rank spirit vein, under the watchful eyes of many, including the sect¡¯s True Dan Elders.


    Therefore, Lan Chang''an was nearly certain that Zhang Tieshan had indeed formed a Gray Dan, and there was no deception involved.


    After a long period of contemtion, a thought shed through Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind:


    ¡°Could it be that he¡¯s using an extremely dangerous Core Dissolution Technique?¡±


    In Lan Chang''an¡¯s previous life in Great Kun, certain Nascent Soul-level sects possessed secret arts for dissolving and reconstituting one¡¯s Core.


    Core Formation was essentially the process of condensing the liquid magical power of the Foundation Establishment Realm into a solid Core.


    This process wasn¡¯t entirely irreversible.


    If a cultivator was dissatisfied with their Core¡¯s quality, they could theoretically shatter the Gray Dan and revert their magical power to its liquid state.


    Some ancient sects held secret techniques that could ¡°dissolve the Core and return to liquid,¡± allowing the cultivator to purify their spiritual power and attempt to form a Core again, with the possibility of slightly improving the quality.


    However, such techniques were almost legendary due to the extreme conditions required!


    The process of dissolving one¡¯s Core was incredibly dangerous and unstable.


    From Lan Chang''an¡¯s perspective, based on his knowledge from before his transmigration, the Core of a Core Formation cultivator was akin to a miniature nuclear bomb.


    Without the proper Core Dissolution Techniques, an average cultivator attempting to dissolve their Core had a 99% chance of blowing themselves up.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had only obtained a fragmented version of the Core Dissolution Technique that had been circted, and without the help of any external force, the sess rate was less than 10%, which could be said to be a nine out of ten chance of death.


    Such high risks meant that Lan Chang''an had never even considered trying it.


    Those ancient sects that possessed intact secret techniques had a sess rate of over 30%.


    With a Nascent Soul True Monarch personally overseeing the process and the use of rare medicinal elixirs, the sess rate could be quite reasonable.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then Zhang Tieshan likely has ess to a high-level Core Dissolution Technique,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    He was intrigued. His long lifespan and the Evergreen Technique, which excelled at healing, meant he had a naturally higher tolerance for failure than other cultivators.


    The process of dissolving the Core would gravely injure the cultivator, leading to varying degrees of bacsh.


    This would damage their foundation, requiring a long period of recovery and the use of many rare resources.


    When Guan Qiaozhi was attempting Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an had discreetly tested this theory while assisting her.


    When Guan Qiaozhi failed, Lan Chang''an had used the Evergreen Technique to spend a small portion of his lifespan, quickly healing her wounds and preventing any damage to her foundation.


    After just a few months of rest, she had been ready to make another attempt.


    Lan Chang''an had long wondered if this method could be applied to Core Formation.


    Poor Core quality?


    Then keep dissolving the Core and starting over!


    Theoretically, with a long enough lifespan, one could eventually wash out a superior-quality Core.


    However, this hypothesis was predicated on having a reliable Core Dissolution Technique.


    The key was ensuring that each dissolution and return to liquid didn¡¯t result in catastrophic failure.


    ¡°Wait! Even if Zhang Tieshan has a top-tier Core Dissolution Technique, without a Nascent Soul True Monarch at Jin Yun Valley to oversee the process, the sess rate wouldn¡¯t be very high.¡±


    With this hypothesis in mind, Lan Chang''an identified a possible w.


    The quality of the Core Dissolution Technique was one thing, but external help was just as crucial.


    If one had ess to the legendary Yin Yang Water, they could safely dissolve their Core even without a Nascent Soul elder¡¯s assistance.


    If Zhang Tieshan truly intended to go down this path, Lan Chang''an suspected that he had ess to some other fortuitous opportunity.


    ¡°It seems this Tianfeng Immortal¡¯s small Core Formation celebration is worth attending.¡±


    Lan Chang''an decided to attend the event and investigate.


    ...


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s Core Formation celebration was scheduled for two monthster.


    It was said to be a rtively private affair, with only a small circle of sect members and close friends invited.


    Lan Chang''an arrived at Jin Yun Valley a day ahead of the event.


    At the sect¡¯s entrance, he encountered some other celebrants, including two individuals who hade without invitations.


    "Fellow Daoist, could you help us out by passing a message? We fought alongside Immortal Zhang in the past and took down a wanted criminal together. We¡¯re really close!"


    "Really close? Then why didn¡¯t Immortal Zhang send you an invitation?"


    The gatekeeping disciple sneered, looking at the pair as if they were clowns.


    "Immortal Zhang¡¯s Core Formation celebration isn¡¯t open to the public. Only those with invitations are allowed in!"


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t surprised to see this.


    Zhang Tieshan had been cultivating for over 120 years, and there were countless cultivators that he knew or had dealt with.


    "Please enter, Talisman Master Lan."


    The disciple recognized Lan Chang''an and, after ncing at his invitation, warmly weed him through the gates.


    "Talisman Master Lan? Isn¡¯t that the ¡®Turtle Talisman Master¡¯ from Wuqi Mountain?"


    "I heard this man has known Immortal Zhang since their youth. They¡¯ve been friends for over a hundred years."


    "This Talisman Master Lan is quite reputable. When I was still in the Qi-Refining stage, I heard that he was ate bloomer, reaching Foundation Establishment at an old age."


    "Oh, it¡¯s him. That makes him a senior worthy of respect."


    As they watched the white-robed man walk away, the cultivators at the gate whispered among themselves, showing a few moments of respect.


    ...


    At Jin Yun Valley¡¯s core, atop the mountain with the third-rank spirit vein, there stood an elegant and ancient mansion.


    This was Zhang Tieshan¡¯s new Daoist residence, situated in an environment with spiritual energy far superior to that of Wuqi Mountain.


    "Talisman Master Lan, we have many guests today, and my master is currently meeting with two Core Formation cultivators. He really doesn¡¯t have any free time."


    A young man with a stern face, dressed in a pale blue robe, greeted Lan Chang''an with an apologetic bow.


    The young man¡¯s name was Yu Qinghai, a disciple of Zhang Tieshan with early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation. He had average aptitude and wasn¡¯t particrly noteworthy.


    Lan Chang''an had only met Yu Qinghai once or twice, unlike Zhao Tan¡¯er or Lin Lu from the past, with whom he had been closer.


    "No problem. It¡¯s not the day of the celebration yet. Just inform your master when you have time."


    Lan Chang''an nodded.


    "I will! Tomorrow, you¡¯ll be able to meet my master. In the meantime, I¡¯ll arrange a guest room for you on the mountain."


    As Yu Qinghai spoke, two more visitors arrived, one of whom was at thete-stage Foundation Establishment.


    Yu Qinghai couldn¡¯t attend to everyone, so he called over a Qi-Refining servant girl to show Lan Chang''an to his quarters.


    "Qinghai, you go on. I¡¯ll drop by to visit Fellow Daoist Zhao."


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t upset.


    With the influx of guests celebrating Zhang Tieshan¡¯s Core Formation, the master and disciple were undoubtedly overwhelmed.


    Lan Chang''an understood the situation.


    From Foundation Establishment to Core Formation, a cultivator¡¯s status and standing changed drastically.


    At Jin Yun Valley¡¯s peak, there were fewer than ten True Dan cultivators at any given time.


    During lean periods, the sect might have only two or three True Dan cultivators.


    Fake Dan cultivators weren¡¯t at the absolute top but were certainly part of the upper echelon.


    Whoosh!


    Just as Lan Chang''an was leaving Zhang Tieshan¡¯s residence, a streak of light shot through the sky, radiating the aura of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    "Martial UncleTan¡­"


    Yu Qinghai greeted the neer with a smile, allowing the Fake Dan elder to enter the mansion without announcement.


    ...


    Inside a picturesque cave residence in Jin Yun Valley, birds chirped and a gentle stream flowed.


    Three Foundation Establishment cultivators¡ªone man and two women¡ªsat facing each other.


    "I bet Uncle Lan didn¡¯t get to see Uncle Zhang just now."


    Zhao Tan¡¯er covered her mouth as sheughed, her crescent-shaped eyes sparkling with amusement.


    "Tan¡¯er!"


    Zhao Siyao lightly reprimanded her, urging her disciple to behave.


    "What Tan¡¯er said is true. Now that Fellow Daoist Zhang has be a Fake Dan cultivator, his social circle has changed. It¡¯s only natural that casual visits won¡¯t be granted."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was calm, showing no signs of offense.


    "Tan¡¯er, Uncle Lan''s mentality is worth learning from you."


    Zhao Siyao, with over a century of experience in the sect, had seen many cases where cultivators struggled to adjust to this widening gap in social status.


    "Uh-huh! I¡¯ve always admired Uncle Lan¡¯s calm temperament. He¡¯s like a thousand year old tortoise¡ªsteady and patient, with deep reserves."


    Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s rosy cheeks and respectful demeanor couldn¡¯t fully hide her mischievous intent.


    Lan Chang''an chuckled, recognizing the yful jab in her words.


    The metaphor of the ¡°thousand year old tortoise¡± was a yful reference to his slow pace, both in personality and cultivation.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er herself had already reached mid-stage Foundation Establishment and was on the cusp of breaking through to the sixth level, nearly catching up to Lan Chang''an in cultivation.


    After some light-hearted conversation, the topic shifted to Zhang Tieshan¡¯s Core Formation process.


    "Originally, Fellow Daoist Zhang had been ted to receive a genuine Crystal Condensation Pill, awaiting the next round of pill refinement at Jin Yun Valley."


    "However, this batch of pills was quite subpar, producing only one genuine and one inferior Crystal Condensation Pill."


    "At that time, Fellow Daoist Zhang faced two choices: he couldpete for the genuine pill, or wait for the next round of refinement, which would take several more years."


    By this point, Lan Chang''an had a clear understanding of the situation.


    Zhang Tieshan was only three years younger than Lan Chang''an and couldn¡¯t afford to dy much longer.


    Perhaps due to some pressure or obligation, he had settled for the inferior Crystal Condensation Pill.


    "There¡¯s a rumor within the sect that one of the otherpetitors for the superior pill was a personal disciple of a True Dan Elder. Out of gratitude for his mentor, Zhang Tieshan made a magnanimous gesture and gave up the pill."


    "A magnanimous gesture? Did Fellow Daoist Zhao personally ask Fellow Daoist Zhang about this matter?"


    Lan Chang''an raised an eyebrow, skeptical.


    Zhao Siyao hesitated for a moment before replying, "Matters like this are quite private. I wouldn¡¯t dare inquire directly with Immortal Zhang."


    "Indeed, I spoke out of line."


    Lan Chang''an realized that hisck of reverence for Fake Dan cultivators had caused him to let his guard down in front of Zhao Siyao.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s mentality was only considered normal.


    Even though she and Zhang Tieshan were fellow sect members and had known each other for a long time, she was still cautious in her interactions with him.


    By evening, Lan Chang''an was settled in his guest quarters atop the mountain.


    "Regarding the Core Dissolution Technique, there¡¯s a saying: the higher the quality of the Core, the more difficult and dangerous it is to dissolve."


    "If Zhang Tieshan chose this path, it wasn¡¯t just a matter of magnanimity¡ªit was a clever move that killed two birds with one stone!"


    With this realization, Lan Chang''an grew more confident in his earlier suspicions.


    ...


    The next day, Zhang Tieshan¡¯s Core Formation celebration proceeded as scheduled.


    Although the number of attendees wasn¡¯trge, their status was impressive.


    Manyte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators and Fake Dan Immortals were present.


    Lan Chang''an, along with Zhao Siyao and her disciple, made their way to the mansion atop the third-rank spirit vein.


    This time, they were able to meet Zhang Tieshan in person.


    The newly ascended Tianfeng Immortal personally greeted them outside his residence.


    For a Fake Dan cultivator to personally wee Foundation Establishment guests was a considerable honor.


    "Immortal Zhang."


    Lan Chang''an and hispanions cupped their hands in salute, presenting their gifts and offering congrattions.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s gaze lingered on Lan Chang''an a little longer than the others as he offered an apology:


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Qinghai mentioned that you visited yesterday. I apologize for not being able to host you properly."


    "You¡¯re too kind! Immortal Zhang has justpleted Core Formation and is bound to have many obligations."


    Lan Chang''an responded with appropriate modesty.


    "Heh, there¡¯s no need for such formality, Fellow Daoist Lan. After the celebration, let¡¯s find time to catch up."


    Zhang Tieshanughed heartily. Hisplexion, though slightly tanned, was no different from before. However, to those observing him closely, there was a subtle, imposing presence that hadn¡¯t been there before.


    Seeing the interaction between the two, Zhao Tan¡¯er couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit surprised.


    She sensed that Zhang Immortal¡¯s warmth towards Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t just pleasantries; it seemed he valued Lan Chang''an even more than her master.


    After weing Lan Chang''an and the others into his residence, Zhang Tieshan excused himself to attend to other important guests.


    Sipping his spiritual tea, Lan Chang''an discreetly observed Zhang Tieshan, noting that the newly ascended Fake Dan Immortal exuded a calm and steady aura.


    That sense of "stability" was something Lan Chang''an could deeply rte to.


    Having known Zhang Tieshan for over a hundred years, Lan Chang''an had long recognized his firm resolve and lofty ambitions.


    Achieving a Fake Dan typically led to a period of stagnation, where the path to further advancement seemed uncertain.


    Under normal circumstances, there would be some joy, but also an underlying sense of disappointment and confusion.


    The celebration itself was rtively low-key, mostly centered around socializing andworking.


    During the event, Zhang Tieshan shared his insights into the Core Formation process, candidly discussing his shorings.


    This act earned him much praise from the attending Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Zhao Siyao and her disciple listened attentively.


    Lan Chang''an appeared equally engrossed, showing signs of admiration.


    ...


    After the celebration, Lan Chang''an bid his farewells and left.


    He did not stay behind to follow up on Zhang Tieshan¡¯s earlierment about catching up privately.


    His decision was based on two factors:


    First, he had already confirmed his suspicions and saw no need for further probing.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s actions and mindset were one clue.


    Analyzing his Daoist title ¡°Tianfeng¡±, it was evident that he still had high aspirations.


    For most Foundation Establishment cultivators who formed a Fake Dan, their chosen titles tended to be more modest, in line with their limitations.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s title wasn¡¯t particrly mboyant.


    It was only through careful observation that Lan Chang''an could infer deeper meaning from such a detail.


    Second, Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation level and status were still far below Zhang Tieshan¡¯s.


    There was no certainty that Zhang Tieshan¡¯s offer to "catch up" wasn¡¯t just a polite gesture.


    Had he stayed on the mountain and waited for the other party''s ¡°summons¡±, he might be a joke.


    While Lan Chang''an was certainly intrigued by the Core Dissolution Technique, he wasn¡¯t in a hurry.


    Once he reached thete-stage Foundation Establishment and had more leverage to offer, he could revisit the topic with Zhang Tieshan.


    ...


    A few monthster.


    The three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain gathered at Little Turtle Peak, the atmosphere tense.


    "The borders of Liang Kingdom have been sealed by the sects?"


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, are you sure this information is urate?"


    Ye Fei looked doubtful, staring at the calm andposed white-robed man who hadn¡¯t changed much in decades.


    The news of the important border checkpoints being sealed by Liang Kingdom¡¯s major sects had arrived so suddenly¡ªit was shocking.


    Had it been anyone else, the two peak masters would have immediately questioned the validity of the information.


    Shi Manrong, though initially taken aback, had regained herposure. Her chest rose and fell as she asked:


    "In recent days, we haven¡¯t seen Fellow Daoist Lan leave Wuqi Mountain. Where did this informatione from?"


    "This newses from the Zhou Family, as well as the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t hide the source.


    The Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain was a family of cultivators founded by Li Congren, the grandson of Li Erqing. Their territory was close to the northwestern border of the Liang Kingdom.


    Li Congren¡¯s family had even engaged in trade with merchants from the neighboring Jing Kingdom.


    As soon as the border was sealed, Li Congren had been informed and immediately ryed the news to both Feiyue Lake and Lan Chang''an.


    Combining information from both sources, Lan Chang''an was confident that the border closures were real.


    The three peak masters fell into a brief silence.


    The closure of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s borders signaled a major event.


    Such drastic measures often indicated a conflict on the scale of a national war, which could impact not only Wuqi Mountain but also the fate of individual cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an had his own theories, but he kept them to himself.


    ...


    Back at Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an nced at thezily swimming Profound Water Turtle and the Earth Burrowing Rat, busy loosening the soil in the spirit field.


    "Forget it, I¡¯ll wait and see how things unfold."


    Originally, Lan Chang''an had nned to visit Liaoyuan Immortal City to purchase information from Tian Zhi Pavilion.


    However, given the current situation, it was better to prepare for the worst.


    He had mentally prepared himself for such an event years ago.


    With such significant developments, more news would undoubtedly follow soon.


    "For now, I¡¯ll focus on maintaining my territory. Even in the worst-case scenario, it¡¯ll take time for the situation to spread to Liang Kingdom¡¯s hearnd and pose a threat to Wuqi Mountain."


    Lan Chang''an, who was already 139 years old, quickly quieted his mind.


    He took out his writing materials and penned letters to Zheng Centipede and Jin Yun Valley.


    Soon after, Lan Chang''an immersed himself in cultivation and the study of his skills.


    From age 139 to 140, this final year marked Lan Chang''an¡¯s transition from mid-stage tote-stage Foundation Establishment.


    It was also a turning point in the history of Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    And that year passed in the blink of an eye!


    200 chapsplete!


    <img /DXL84KB6lscAAAAi/confetti-cute.gif" alt="a cartoon of a cat holding a basket of candy and a bunch of confetti.">

 Chapter 201: Golden Sun Moving North

    One yearter.


    In the depths of the Liang Kingdom, within the dense forests to the north of Fox Valley.


    Huff! Huff!


    A muscr man with a broad back and bear-like stature was gasping for breath as he held a stealth talisman, hiding among the thick foliage.


    "Qi Feng! There''s no point in resisting!"


    "ording to the sect¡¯s summons, a wanted criminal like you can redeem yourself by fighting on the frontlines. If you''re fortunate enough to make a meritorious contribution, you might even be rewarded, it''s a blessing in disguise!"


    A man and a woman¡¯s voices echoed from above the forest.


    They were two disciples of the sect, wearing uniforms of ck robes embroidered with gold, riding on flying weapons. Their sharp gazes carefully monitored the movements within the forest below.Qi Feng remained silent, swallowing two pills without a word.


    His hair was scorched and disheveled, and his body was littered with wounds. Gritting his teeth against the pain, he focused on treating his broken ribs.


    "Qi Feng, if you don¡¯te out soon, don¡¯t me us for setting the forest on fire."


    The two sect disciples exchanged a nce, their expressions impatient, though neither dared to recklessly enter the woods.


    Qi Feng was at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining, simr in cultivation to the pair. However, with his richbat experience and status as a Martial Innate in the mortal world, his battle prowess far exceeded that of ordinary loose cultivators.


    Boom! Boom!


    A few fireballs descended from the sky, igniting the forest, and filling the air with thick smoke.


    Thud!


    A loud crash came from within the woods, followed by a surge of magical energy, and arge tree toppled over.


    "His position¡¯s exposed!"


    The female sect disciple¡¯s eyes lit up, and together with herpanion, they nked the location, slowly closing in.


    "Wait, it''s a trap!"


    Using a flying weapon, they cut through the branches, only to freeze in surprise. There, lying beneath the crushed trees, was nothing but a damaged humanoid puppet.


    Meanwhile, at the far end of the forest...


    Whoosh!


    Arge, agile figure darted through the smoke and sprinted a good distance. Then, standing atop a ck de weapon, he shot into the sky.


    "After him!"


    The two sect disciples hurriedly turned in pursuit, but the ck smoke obscured their vision, preventing them from catching him right away.


    "Qi Feng! Why are you so stubborn? Do you really want to live your life as a fugitive, hiding in the shadows like a rat?"


    The female sect disciple yelled in frustration.


    "Guarding the Liang Kingdom¡¯s borders and redeeming yourself¡ªthis is the sect''s mercy, giving you a chance at rebirth!"


    "Redeeming myself?"


    Qi Feng smirked mockingly. Ignoring his injuries, he pushed his magical power to the limit, speeding up his escape.


    He had read history books in the mortal world and learned that criminals sent to the frontlines were often used as cannon fodder, thrown into suicide missions. The sect forcing wanted criminals to fight in defense of the Liang Kingdom¡ªhow was that any different from the mortal dynasties?


    Most importantly, he hadn¡¯tmitted any crime at all.


    He had been wronged!


    "I''m injured. With my current magical reserves, I won¡¯t be able to run for long. If I run into other sect patrols..."


    Flying over a hundred li, Qi Feng¡¯s body ached, and his face grew grim.


    Recalling the map of the Liang Kingdom in his mind, he desperately sought an escape route.


    "Fox Valley... if I head northeast, there¡¯s the Huanglong Immortal City. To the northwest is..."


    Suddenly, a familiar location shed in his memory, causing both relief and hesitation to appear on his face.


    "Aunt Guan! Qi Feng is ipetent, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll have to go against your wishes."


    Taking a deep breath, Qi Feng gritted his teeth and adjusted his flight path.


    Aunt Guan had once warned him that unless it was a life-or-death situation, he must never go to that ce.


    If she ever passed away, only then could he take her ashes there for burial.


    ...


    "Ha! That criminal''s mana is depleting!"


    An hourter, the two sect disciples had gradually closed the distance.


    Just ahead loomed a mist-shrouded mountain range, teeming with spiritual energy.


    Qi Feng, barely managing to control his flying weapon, wobbled as he plunged into the mist.


    "Senior Brother Yue, that criminal has fled into Wuqi Mountain."


    The female disciple hesitated for a moment, then spoke.


    "Wuqi Mountain? That¡¯s where the spiritual vein of our Jin Yun Valley lies! Get the cultivators on the mountain to assist us in arresting him. If they refuse..."


    Senior Brother Yue stopped mid-sentence, suddenly considering something.


    "Let¡¯s go in first. We can handle this ourselves."


    Senior Brother Yue, at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, was the first to pierce through the fog and enter the mountain range.


    Within Wuqi Mountain.


    It wasn¡¯t long before they spotted Qi Feng again. He was struggling, flying toward a rtively low, t peak.


    Suddenly!


    Qi Feng seemed to hit an invisible wall of wind. His body stumbled, rolling down the mountainside.


    Senior Brother Yue and hispanionughed, speeding up to capture their target.


    Just as they approached within a hundred zhang...


    Both sect disciples'' expressions changed drastically, their flight interrupted by a powerful tremor.


    "What is this..."


    They sensed an overwhelming spiritual pressure emanating from the mountain peak, apanied by turbulent waves of spiritual energy.


    Under this immense pressure, they felt as insignificant as small boats in a storm, one wrong move away from being utterly destroyed.


    "Foundation Establishment-level spiritual power! It seems they are at the final stage of breakthrough!"


    "This pressure rivals that of Elder Dongmen! Could it be someone who¡¯s just advanced to thete Foundation Establishment stage?"


    The two sect disciples were filled with dread and hesitation, too afraid to approach any closer.


    They feared disturbing thete stage great cultivator breakthrough.


    If it were an ordinary Foundation Establishment loose cultivator, they wouldn¡¯t be so intimidated.


    But ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator was an entirely different matter¡ªone of the rare elites in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, capable of dominating several cultivation families.


    Moreover, this was the famous Wuqi Mountain, home to three exceptionally powerful peak masters who kept the surrounding loose cultivators in check andmanded significant influence.


    ...


    "Senior Brother Yue, that criminal seems to have fallen onto Little Turtle Peak¡ªthe cultivation site of the ''Turtle Talisman Master.''"


    The female disciple lowered her voice.


    "How do you know?"


    Before Senior Brother Yue could finish his sentence, a massive, deep green turtle, glowing with blue water light, descended from the top of Wuqi Mountain.


    "A second-rank spiritual turtle?"


    "Could it be the rumored Profound Water Turtle?"


    Under their watchful eyes, the dark green turtle flew to the mountainside, where it caught the fallen Qi Feng with its enormous body.


    "Is it really the Profound Water Turtle?"


    Qi Feng was overjoyed, seated on the wide back of the turtle as it ascended smoothly toward the mountaintop, with the wind and thete Foundation Establishment spiritual pressure enveloping them.


    The turtle in front of him was muchrger than what Aunt Guan had described, and its shell was at least eighteen feet wide.


    Qi Feng nced back.


    The man and woman remained far behind, their expressionsplex, unwilling to take another step forward.


    Qi Feng let out a sigh of relief. The weight in his heart lightened, and he felt a surge of respect for the renowned ancestor on this mountain.


    "Senior Brother Yue, what should we do now? Should we go to Little Turtle Peak and negotiate?"


    The female disciple was visibly uneasy.


    Seeing that the Profound Water Turtle hade to rescue Qi Feng, it was clear that he had some connection to Little Turtle Peak.


    "Let¡¯s go."


    Senior Brother Yue hesitated for a moment before flying away from Wuqi Mountain.


    Watching his clenched fists, the female disciple suddenly understood.


    Negotiating wasn''t the problem.


    The issue was that they weren¡¯t qualified to speak to ate-stage Foundation Establishment great cultivator.


    After a brief pause, Senior Brother Yue took out a green talisman with gold markings from his storage pouch and infused it with mana.


    The green talisman glowed faintly as an invisible ripple passed through the air.


    ...


    At the top of Little Turtle Peak.


    The Profound Water Turtlended by a pool, and Qi Feng climbed off its back without needing to be told.


    "Senior, thank you for saving... Ah!"


    Without warning, the Profound Water Turtle bumped Qi Feng, knocking him to the ground.


    He gasped in pain, his vision swimming.


    The turtle gave him an innocent look, then stretched itsrge head, nuzzling his chest.


    A momentter, Qi Feng seemed to realize something. He fumbled with his robes, revealing a smooth, dark pendant hanging around his neck, shaped like a half-oval.


    Upon closer inspection, the sheen and texture of the pendant were almost identical to the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s shell.


    "What¡¯s your rtionship with Qi Jingyun?"


    A calm, gentle male voice echoed in Qi Feng¡¯s ear.


    At that moment, the spiritual energy that had been in turmoil above Little Turtle Peak finally began to settle.


    Startled, Qi Feng quickly straightened up and bowed deeply toward the cave.


    "Replying to senior! Qi Jingyun is my great-great-grandfather."


    The gentle voice asked only one question, then fell silent.


    Just as Qi Feng was growing anxious, a poised maid in a blue robe approached him.


    "Young Master, please stay on the mountain and tend to your injuries. Here are some healing medicines."


    "What is your name, miss?"


    "My name is Lan Rou." The maid, seemingly around thirty-five or thirty-six, was no longer in her prime, yet her beauty and grace remained undiminished.


    Qi Feng thought to himself, "Even a maid on Little Turtle Peak has an air more refined than most female cultivators outside. And her cultivation isn¡¯t weaker than mine."


    ...


    "He really does resemble him..."


    Inside a secret chamber on Little Turtle Peak, a low murmur echoed.


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense lingered on the broad-shouldered man for a moment.


    This Qi Feng bore at least a seven-tenths resemnce to his adoptive father in his youth, ording to his memories of this life.


    It had been more than thirty years since Guan Qiaozhi left Wuqi Mountain.


    In the early years after her departure, Guan Qiaozhi asionally sent letters.


    In one of those letters, she mentioned a boy named Qi Feng with spiritual roots, said to be a descendant of Qi Jingyun, the leader of the Angry River Gang and Lan Chang''an''s adoptive father.


    This boy with spiritual roots had, by some twist of fate, begun cultivating Lan Chang''an''s Origin-Opening Scripture. By the time Guan Qiaozhi discovered him, he had already been practicing for several years.


    Guan Qiaozhi had noted the boy¡¯s background, talent, and temperament, all of which bore simrities to Lan Chang''an. As a result, she had taken on the role of his immortal guide, offering him some instruction and care, much as the Daoist Guan had once done for her.


    "One hundred and forty years old, at the seventh level of the Foundation Establishment Realm!"


    Three dayster, Lan Chang''an concluded his cultivation session. Sensing his magical power had doubled, he was in high spirits.


    As his cultivation advanced, his spiritual sense had also grown significantly, now rivaling that of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    He could now extend his spiritual sense to cover an area of two or three li.


    It was worth noting that an ordinary peak Foundation Establishment cultivator¡¯s spiritual sense could only extend a hundred or so zhang.


    With the rise in both his magical power and spiritual sense, Lan Chang''an could now utilize techniques that far surpassed what he had been capable of before.


    For example, the prototype magical treasure he had been nurturing within his body for years was now ready to be used as a powerful offensive weapon.


    Its destructive potential would far exceed that of the Night Fisherman from years past.


    "Now, with my refined body and enhanced spiritual sense, I¡¯ve reached the Fake Dan stage. Even my weakest point¡ªmy magical power¡ªhas now surpassed the inner disciples of Jin Yun Valley, nearing the level of their core disciples."


    Even in these times of war, Lan Chang''an felt a sense of security.


    Putting aside his talisman treasures and the Nine Seal Stele, his raw strength alone was nowparable to a Fake Dan cultivator.


    In the broader context of Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, the majority of wandering ''Immortals'' were Fake Dan cultivators.


    These Fake Dan experts could even safely travel to neighboring countries.


    ...


    Aftering out of seclusion.


    Lan Chang''an summoned Qi Feng to his cave.


    "This junior, Qi Feng, pays respects to Grandfather Lan..."


    Qi Feng¡¯s sturdy figure, with his broad shoulders and thick waist, made him appear to be in his mid-thirties, though his actual age was over fifty.


    At this moment, he resembled a clumsy bear cub as he knelt, prostrating himself on the ground.


    Qi Feng was overwhelmed with shock. He could hardly believe that this young man, dressed in elegant white robes and appearing so youthful, was his ''half-ancestor.''


    Lan Chang''an was the adopted son of Qi Jingyun. In terms of seniority, this made him Qi Feng¡¯s non-blood-rted great-grandfather.


    "Stand."


    After the customary bow, Qi Feng didn¡¯t dare to sit. He repeatedly imed that he had brought trouble upon Wuqi Mountain by being wanted by the sect.


    "Tell me about your situation first."


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly, reserving judgment.


    "Grandfather Lan, I¡¯ve been wanted by the sect since a certain escort mission a few months ago..."


    Qi Feng¡¯s expression darkened as he recalled the events, his eyes filled with bitterness and resentment.


    Over the past decade, Qi Feng had been cultivating around the markets controlled by the Jiang Family, one of the seven great families in the southwest of the Liang Kingdom.


    His primary source of spirit stones came from two avenues.


    First, he was skilled at processing materials for talisman crafting, making talisman paper and spirit ink.


    This was a low-threshold skill passed down to him by Aunt Guan.


    Qi Feng wasn¡¯t as deft as Aunt Guan, so he didn¡¯t earn much from processing materials alone.


    Thus, he asionally took on work as a "guard-for-hire," providing his second source of ie.


    This job had its risks but paid well.


    As a guard, Qi Feng worked under legitimate escort organizations, mostly undertaking collective missions to provide protection and escort services.


    "That escort mission to Liaoyuan Immortal City... all the merchants and the dozen or so guards were killed by rogue cultivators. Even the Foundation Establishment leader of the team perished!"


    As he spoke, Qi Feng shuddered.


    "You were the only survivor?"


    Lan Chang''an looked at him thoughtfully.


    "Yes." Qi Feng braced himself to answer.


    "I survived thanks to abination of luck and two main factors."


    "First, I¡¯m a martial arts grandmaster. From the mortal world to the cultivation world, I¡¯ve been through countless battles, and I have ample experience in escaping. Second, Aunt Guan had given me life-saving talismans, which allowed me to narrowly escape death."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, not pressing further.


    He had already used his Fake Dan spiritual sense to scan Qi Feng earlier and found no obvious signs of extraordinary fortune or lucky encounters.


    Qi Feng¡¯s advantagey mainly in his strong martial foundation and natural talent forbat.


    In the cultivation world, fighting was also a form of talent.


    Some cultivators were inherently better atbat than others, with sharper instincts and stronger adaptability in battle.


    Qi Feng might just be one of those cultivators, naturally suited for the profession of an escort.


    "So, you were suspected of colluding with rogue cultivators and became wanted by the sect?"


    Lan Chang''an smiled.


    "Yes! They didn¡¯t care about evidence at all. They just put me on the sect¡¯s wanted list, branding me a criminal."


    Qi Feng clenched his teeth, deeply aggrieved.


    "Do you have any evidence to clear your name?"


    "Uh..."


    Qi Feng hesitated, shaking his head.


    Lan Chang''an found it amusing. In these troubled times, it wasn¡¯t unreasonable for the sect to put someone like him on the wanted list.


    In the cultivation world, there was no presumption of innocence.


    After all, there are far too many ways to investigate suspected crimes.


    ...


    At this very moment, the Liang Kingdom''s borders were under siege by the Feng Kingdom, led by Golden Sun Sect¡¯s army of cultivators.


    In just one short year, the Liang Kingdom had transformed from an opportunistic invader a few years ago to the invaded party, now a weak cultivation nation.


    No one could have predicted that after over twenty years of warfare, Feng Kingdom would suddenly engage in peace talks¡ªand with unexpected ease.


    The Nascent Soul realm True Monarchs of Feng Kingdom, Yan Kingdom, and Chen Kingdom had reached a secret agreement, even signing a fourth-rank soul blood pact.


    The details of how and why this happened were unclear.


    But the final result was that, while the broader power structure remained unchanged, the Golden Sun Sect was moving northward.


    Of course, Feng Kingdom¡¯s Golden Sun Sect branded this move as a "counter-attack in self-defense."


    This was all information Lan Chang''an had gathered over the past year through his connections with Zheng Centipede and friends from other sects.


    Golden Sun Sect had deployed only one Nascent Soul True Monarch for this campaign, while another remained to guard the sect.


    Along with a massive force of affiliated cultivation factions, the Golden Sun Sect was steadily advancing toward the Liang Kingdom''s borders.


    In the small skirmishes along the frontlines, Liang Kingdom had suffered several defeats, losing one True Dan stage cultivator and four or five Fake Dan experts.


    To resist the Feng Kingdom¡¯s "counter-attack in self-defense," the frontlines in the Liang Kingdom were desperate for reinforcements. The sects were conscripting cultivators from every major immortal city, family, and business, with methods far harsher than in previous campaigns.


    A few disobedient cultivation families had been severely punished.


    One Foundation Establishment family that attempted to flee had been used of colluding with the enemy and waspletely eradicated.


    Even Lan Chang''an¡¯s Little Turtle Peak, though a loose cultivator¡¯s cultivation site, was assigned a quota of talisman-making tasks each month. Fortunately, the sect provided the materials.


    Essentially, it was freebor for the war effort.


    However, Lan Changan''s sess rate in drawing talismans was very high. While other talisman masters struggled just to break even on their assigned quotas, Lan Chang''an could even make a small profit.


    Given this backdrop of war...


    Who would care about a loose cultivator like Qi Feng being wrongfully used and wanted?


    Liang Kingdom''s sects would love nothing more than for more criminals like him to exist, so they could all be conscripted to fight on the frontlines.

 Chapter 202: Late Bloomer

    Lan Chang''an now understood Qi Feng¡¯s predicament. Changing the topic, he asked, ¡°How is your Aunt Guan doing?¡±


    Guan Qiaozhi had left Little Turtle Peak thirty-three years ago at the age of seventy-five. At that time, her cultivation had stalled, and she was gradually aging and losing her beauty.


    Back then, Lan Chang''an had predicted that, given her good care of herself and the absence of any significant conflicts, Guan Qiaozhi might live close to the lifespan limit of a Qi-Refining cultivator.


    "Over the years, Aunt Guan has settled in a secluded mountain vige in the mortal realm. She¡¯s adopted some orphans, and the ce is picturesque, self-sufficient, and free from worldly strife..."


    As Qi Feng spoke of Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s situation, a hint of warmth shed in the eyes of this burly man.


    Guan Qiaozhi had initially appeared in his life as his immortal guide to the immortal path, andter her care and guidance made her like a mentor to him.


    To Qi Feng, Aunt Guan was practically a second mother.


    "Living out her days in the mortal realm... not a bad way to spend her remaining years," Lan Chang''an mused.A cultivator living in the mortal realm, as long as they kept a low profile and didn¡¯t cause trouble, could enjoy a peaceful life.


    During times of war in the cultivation world, some cultivators chose to hide in the mortal realm to avoid the dangers of conflict.


    This choice had both advantages and disadvantages.


    In the mortal realm, there were no spiritual veins to aid in cultivation, and the presence of too much mortal energy could stagnate a cultivator¡¯s progress or even cause them to regress.


    The higher the cultivator¡¯s level, the more they would feel this gap when staying in the mundane.


    Thus, the mortal world was only suitable as a temporary refuge for low-level Qi-Refining cultivators, and even then, not for too long.


    It wasn¡¯t umon for wars in the cultivation world tost ten or twenty years.


    Qi-Refining cultivators already had limited lifespans, and wasting ten years during their prime would almost guarantee they¡¯d never advance to the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Moreover, hiding in the secr world wasn¡¯t always safe.


    Cultivation sects had many ways to detect a cultivator¡¯s magical fluctuations. Unless they had a powerful method to suppress their aura, they couldn¡¯t escape notice.


    Of course, the current state of war in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world wasn¡¯t so dire that they needed to round up cultivators hiding in the mortal world.


    The quality of low-level cultivators hiding there wasn¡¯t worth the effort.


    For now, Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects were focusing their efforts on spiritual vein strongholds.


    The various cultivation forces, including ns, immortal cities, and business associations, all had spiritual vein strongholds.


    You can run, but you can¡¯t hide.


    Especially for those cultivation families tied by bloodlines, dragging along their families. They had no choice but to contribute manpower and resources.


    ...


    "Qi Feng, what are your ns from here?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "I¡¯ll recover from my injuries first, then..." Qi Feng hesitated, feeling lost.


    Little Turtle Peak was merely a temporary refuge.


    With the Liang Kingdom embroiled in a cultivation war and him being a wanted Qi-Refining cultivator drifting aimlessly, he had no stable ce to settle. His fate was entirely at the mercy of the tides.


    Lan Chang''an offered, "Little Turtle Peak needs a caretaker to handle odd jobs and errands. Would you be willing to stay and work here?"


    "Stay on Little Turtle Peak as a caretaker?"


    Qi Feng froze for a moment, then, overwhelmed with joy, knelt down in gratitude.


    "I¡¯m willing! Grandfather Lan, I¡¯ll never forget this kindness!"


    Upon first entering Little Turtle Peak, Qi Feng had felt as though he¡¯d stepped into a peaceful haven, protected by spiritual beasts and surrounded by beautiful scenery.


    Deep down, he had longed to live in such a spiritual vein stronghold, but he had never dared to entertain such ambitions.


    Aunt Guan had forbade him from visiting Little Turtle Peak easily, clearly not wanting to trouble this senior ancestor, who was a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "You cultivating the Origin-Opening Scripture that I left behind is your fated opportunity to walk the path of immortality."


    Lan Chang''an raised his hand, signaling Qi Feng to stand.


    A century ago, out of gratitude to his adoptive father, Lan Chang''an had left the Origin-Opening Scripture at the Angry River Gang, leaving behind this immortal opportunity for his descendants.


    And with Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s rtionship as well...


    Remembering these two old connections, Lan Chang''an decided to make an exception and keep Qi Feng around.


    "Qi Feng, you¡¯ve cultivated to the eighthyer of Qi-Refining. Have you ever used breakthrough pills?"


    Lan Chang''an inquired about his cultivation progress.


    "No, I haven¡¯t," Qi Feng answered honestly.


    Seeing that his foundation was solid, Lan Chang''an nodded in satisfaction.


    "Here, take these bottles of pills. In the future, if you encounter any difficulties in cultivation, feel free to ask me for guidance."


    "Thank you, Grandfather Lan, for your kindness."


    Qi Feng suppressed his excitement and humbly epted the bottles of pills.


    The opportunity to cultivate in a second-rank spiritual vein stronghold and receive guidance from ate-stage Foundation Establishment great cultivator was a dreame true for someone who had endured the hardships of life as a loose cultivator.


    The pills Lan Chang''an had given were some he had refined in the past while practicing alchemy. Though not of the highest quality, they were still decent.


    With the current state of war in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world, Lan Chang''an was making preparations to possibly flee to a foreignnd.


    In this transitional period, he didn¡¯t mind offering a bit of help to his adoptive father¡¯s descendant.


    ...


    As Qi Feng walked out of the cave-dwelling, he took a deep breath of the fresh air at this mountain peak.


    The pure spiritual energy of the second-rank spiritual vein stronghold filled him with a sense offort, and even the flow of his magical power seemed smoother.


    "Sister Lan," Qi Feng called out.


    Although his injuries hadn¡¯t fully healed, he took the initiative to seek out the maid Lan Rou to learn more about the daily affairs on the mountain.


    There was only one maid on the mountain, so there wasn¡¯t much manpower.


    Fortunately, the mountain was home to spiritual pets and puppets that handled most of thebor-intensive tasks.


    After a brief discussion, the two of them worked out a division ofbor.


    "Given the unrest in the world outside, you¡¯ll be responsible for keeping watch over the mountain, running errands for the master when he goes out, and helping with some of the misceneous tasks on the mountain."


    "That¡¯s no problem. I used to work as an escort," Qi Feng replied, feeling a sense of familiarity with the role.


    Besides his wealth ofbat experience, he had no other specialized skills to rely on.


    As they chatted, a second-rank flying boat appeared, carrying three cultivators directly toward Little Turtle Peak.


    At the bow stood a man with a long beard, appearing to be in his thirties or forties. He was a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Behind him stood a man and a woman, both at the eighth and ninthyers of Qi-Refining, respectively.


    "Sect patrol cultivators!"


    Qi Feng¡¯s heart skipped a beat as he instantly recognized the two Qi-Refining cultivators behind the bearded man¡ªthey were the same pair who had been chasing him not long ago.


    The two sect disciples also noticed Qi Feng and whispered something to the bearded Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The bearded man nced at Qi Feng with a cool indifference.


    Panic surged through Qi Feng, and he didn¡¯t dare make eye contact with the sect¡¯s Foundation Establishment expert.


    Just as he was about to report to the cave-dwelling, Lan Rou¡¯s calm voice rang out beside him:


    "Senior Liu, my master has been informed of your visit. Please follow me to the residence."


    "Thank you, Miss Lan, for your guidance."


    The bearded man smiled kindly and, under Lan Rou¡¯s escort, entered the cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak.


    During the entire encounter, he didn¡¯t give Qi Feng another nce.


    Once Qi Feng calmed down, he noticed two subtle details.


    First, despite the arrival of a Foundation Establishment sect cultivator, Grandfather Lan hadn¡¯t personallye out to greet him.


    Second, the bearded cultivator was exceedingly polite to Lan Rou, who was merely a maid.


    Outside the cave.


    Qi Feng found himself face-to-face with the two sect disciples, and the three of them stared at each other in awkward silence.


    However, Qi Feng soon realized that the two sect disciples, who had chased him relentlessly just days before, no longer harbored much hostility toward him.


    "Fellow Daoist Qi, what is your rtionship with Senior Lan?"


    The female disciple broke the silence with a gentle smile, clearly probing.


    "Grandfather Lan and I..."


    Qi Feng¡¯s mind raced, and he responded smoothly, his demeanor calm and poised despite his earlier nerves.


    Before he knew it, the three of them had fallen into casual conversation, the former hostility melting away.


    Half an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an and the bearded man emerged from the cave-dwelling, clearly enjoying their conversation.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, we¡¯re family. No need for such formality in seeing me off," the bearded man said cheerfully, his face glowing with satisfaction.


    Before leaving, he nced at Qi Feng and said,


    "Little friend Qi, you can rest assured on Little Turtle Peak. The evidence against you is insufficient. Once it¡¯s presented to the Law Enforcement Hall, Elder Zhang will ensure your name is cleared from the wanted list."


    "Thank you, Senior, for your care."


    Qi Feng bowed deeply, both overjoyed and filled with shock.


    Without any investigation or interrogation, he, a major suspect, was just removed from any charges?


    Perhaps they didn¡¯t care about the truth at all.


    ...


    After a busy half day, Qi Feng presented a beautifully arranged fruit tter to Lan Rou,plimenting her as he did so.


    "Sister Lan, why are the Foundation Establishment cultivators from Jin Yun Valley so polite to Grandfather Lan?"


    Qi Feng dared not ask Lan Chang''an directly, so he turned to Lan Rou instead.


    "Inspector Liu has a favor to ask of the master," Lan Rou replied leisurely, eating her spiritual fruit.


    "Two months ago, Inspector Liu requested that the master craft some quasi-third-rank talismans for the sect¡¯s tasks, but the master refused, iming it was beyond his ability and didn¡¯t give him any face."


    "And he didn¡¯t bear a grudge for that?"


    "Master¡¯s close friend, ¡®Tianfeng Immortal,¡¯ is an elder of Jin Yun Valley¡¯s outer sect and the Vice Hall Master of the Law Enforcement Hall. Inspector Liu can''t even wait to tter him, how would he dare to be angry?"


    "Jin Yun Valley Elder?"


    Qi Feng¡¯s mind reeled. His non-blood-rted ancestor had such powerful connections!


    As evening approached.


    Two Foundation Establishment cultivators, one man and one woman, flew from the neighboring peaks toward Little Turtle Peak.


    These two cultivators, with their extraordinary presence and faint spiritual pressure, clearly surpassed Senior Liu from earlier.


    Especially the Foundation Establishment female cultivator, who wore a flowing silver-blue gown. Tall and graceful, she exuded elegance and tranquility, her beauty refined and serene.


    Qi Feng was stunned by her. As a loose cultivator, he had never seen a Foundation Establishment female cultivator with such bearing.


    "Fairy Shi and Herbalist Ye are here," Lan Rou said as she tidied her appearance and hurried forward to wee them.


    Even Lan Chang''an emerged from his cave mansion to greet them.


    "Congrattions to Fellow Daoist Lan for advancing to thete stage of Foundation Establishment," Fairy Shi and Ye Fei said in unison,ing to offer their congrattions.


    Earlier, when Lan Chang''an had just broken through and needed time to stabilize his cultivation, they hadn¡¯te immediately.


    Ye Fei, in particr, had mixed feelings¡ªsurprised, and envious.


    No matter one¡¯s age, taking this crucial step meant Lan Chang''an had surpassed most Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    For over half of Foundation Establishment cultivators, advancing to thete stage was something they could never achieve in their lifetime.


    Fairy Shi, however, smiled knowingly. As someone who had once fought alongside Lan Chang''an as his partner, she understood him well and was not surprised.


    To break through to thete stage at one hundred and forty years old was indeed rare.


    But Lan Chang''an had always cultivated at a steady pace, one step at a time, without showing any extraordinary talent.


    Years ago, he had requested materials from Huanglong Mountain to refine breakthrough pills for thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    With ample resources, solid foundations, a strong mentality, and the aid of the breakthrough pill... all these factors contributed to Lan Chang''an¡¯s breakthrough, which stood up to scrutiny.


    At most, outsiders might specte that he had encountered some fortuitous opportunities, but nothing too outrageous.


    After all, which Foundation Establishment cultivator didn¡¯t need a bit of luck to reach thete stage?


    Now, with Lan Chang''an¡¯s protective abilities greatly enhanced and strong connections to sect elders, he no longer needed to hide the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s second-rank cultivation.


    ...


    Inside the cave mansion, Lan Chang''an hosted a banquet to celebrate, offering second-rank spirit wine to entertain the two peak masters.


    After a few rounds of drinks...


    Ye Fei¡¯s face flushed as he let out a burp and asked,


    "With Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s skill in crafting talismans, why not make more high-quality talismans and strive to earn war merits to exchange for rare resources?"


    "It¡¯s not worth it," Lan Chang''an replied, shaking his head. "To earn war merits, I¡¯d have to exceed the basic task quota, and the talismans would need to meet certain grade requirements. Right now, I¡¯m notcking spirit stones or cultivation resources."


    "Besides, at my age, I¡¯ve given up on forming a core. There¡¯s no point in working myself to the bone."


    During the war, the sects of the Liang Kingdom had opened up war merit exchanges for both cultivators who went to the frontlines and those tasked with logistics and crafting.


    However, the exchange system was quite cunning.


    Cultivators fighting on the front lines earned far more war merits, and it was rtively easier to umte them.


    However, such cultivators were also more likely to die in battle, never living to enjoy the rewards.


    For artisans and craftsmen who provided logistical support, the merit exchange ratios were much lower, and there were strict requirements on the quality of the items they provided.


    If Lan Chang''an could consistently produce quasi-third-rank talismans, he could amass significant military merits, possibly even enough to exchange for most of the rare materials needed for a Crystal Condensation Pill.


    But having lived several lifetimes, Lan Chang''an knew the danger of being too capable.


    If he performed too well, he might find himself burdened with additional responsibilities and greater expectations.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an chose to lie low and y the role of a cker.


    He onlypleted the basic tasks assigned to him, with no ambition to earn war merits.


    He had no use for a small amount of war merit.


    Too much, however, would draw unwanted attention from the sect¡¯s leadership, making it harder for him to leave quietly if he ever needed to.


    "Given up on forming a core?"


    Fairy Shi smiled subtly, as if there were more to her words.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯re the very embodiment of ate bloomer in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world. You still have a hundred years of life left. If you encounter a great opportunity, who¡¯s to say you can¡¯t break through another major barrier?"


    The theoretical maximum lifespan of a Foundation Establishment cultivator could reach two hundred and forty years.


    However, nine out of ten Foundation Establishment cultivators, assuming they didn¡¯t die prematurely, only lived to around two hundred.


    Over the course of one or two centuries, most cultivators experienced ups and downs, moments of great joy and sorrow, and various unexpected events.


    In addition to fighting, even small oversights in cultivation techniques would all affect life expectancy.


    "Thank you for your kind words, Fairy Shi. If I can achieve Fake Dan in this lifetime, that would already be a blessing from eight lifetimes," Lan Chang''an replied with a smile, understanding the hidden meaning behind her words.


    The so-called "great opportunity" she referred to was the ancient ruin in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    ording to their prior agreement, now that Lan Chang''an had advanced to thete stage of Foundation Establishment, the timeline for exploring the ruins was drawing nearer.


    Ye Fei chimed in, "Fellow Daoist Lan, with your strength and perseverance, and with a hundred years of time, there should be some hope of achieving Fake Dan."


    ...


    Later that night.


    Lan Chang''an personally saw off the two peak masters from the cave mansion.


    Fairy Shi stayed behind to have a private conversation with him.


    "I haven¡¯t seen your Earth Burrowing Rat around recently," Fairy Shi remarked, her clear eyes scanning the mountain in surprise.


    In the past, whenever she visited Little Turtle Peak, even if the Earth Burrowing Rat didn¡¯t show itself, she could always sense its presence watching from the shadows.


    "A few months ago, the Earth Burrowing Rat was taken by Miss Zhou to the Zhou Family to undergo the ''Blood Spirit Pool'' baptism. It should be returning soon," Lan Chang''an exined.


    After much deliberation, Lan Chang''an had decided to give the Blood Spirit Pool spot to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    The Blood Spirit Pool could significantly increase the cultivation and improve the physique of spiritual beasts, as well as slightly enhance their bloodline.


    The Profound Water Turtle¡¯s bloodline was already high-end, so the improvement in bloodline would have been negligible and not worth the investment.


    As for boosting its cultivation level, the Profound Water Turtle didn¡¯t need the extra help.


    It had long been piggybacking on Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation of the Evergreen Technique, and its progress was already swift.


    Recently, Zhou Qingxuan had written back, saying that the Earth Burrowing Rat was enjoying its time at the Zhou Family, with plenty ofpanions, so it hadn¡¯t returned immediately.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t worried about the rat encountering any danger.


    As long as he stayed safe and avoided crossing paths with the Zhou Family, Zhou Qingxuan wouldn¡¯t dare y any tricks.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, now that you¡¯ve just advanced to thete stage of Foundation Establishment, it would be wise to spend a year or two stabilizing your cultivation and preparing more techniques," Fairy Shi suggested through voice transmission.


    "During this time, I¡¯ll contact Jiang Yechen and negotiate with him."


    "Oh? Which approach do you n to take?"


    The two strategies Lan Chang''an had previously suggested were merely from the perspective of an observer.


    The actual approach they took, including whether or not to resort to force, was ultimately up to Fairy Shi.


    "I am prepared to be polite first and try not to make a move," Fairy Shi pondered aloud. "However, Jiang Yechen recently returned to his family and is facing some difficulties. Reaching him might not be easy."


    "The Jiang Family... one of the Seven Great Families?"


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment, recalling the Jiang Family¡¯s location on the Liang Kingdom map. He had a rough idea of the trouble Jiang Yechen was facing.

 Chapter 203: The Flames of War Spread

    The Jiang Family resided in the southwestern region of the Liang Kingdom, near the border with the Feng Kingdom. If the frontlines were to copse, the Jiang Family¡¯s territory would inevitably be part of the battlefield.


    "The Jiang Family¡¯s marketces and many of their assets have been requisitioned by the sect to support the frontlines. To defend their ancestralnds, the Jiang Family has paid a steep price. Even Jiang Yechen, despite his strained rtions with the family, has been summoned back," Fairy Shi exined, detailing the current predicament of the Jiang Family.


    This was no ordinary trouble; it was a cmity.


    "Jiang Yechen cut ties with the Jiang Family years ago, yet they¡¯re calling on him now for help in such a crucial time?" Lan Chang''an asked in surprise.


    "His rtionship with the upper echelons of the Jiang Family hasn¡¯t truly improved, but he has a younger brother in the family with whom he¡¯s very close."


    "It¡¯s said that, years ago, Jiang Yechen killed his foster mother and crippled his birth father¡¯s cultivation due to his younger brother being humiliated." Fairy Shi spoke with some uncertainty, as these were only rumors.


    Back when the Tengxing Merchant Association opposed Jiang Yechen¡¯s rtionship with Shen Bixin, one of the reasons given was his extreme temperament.


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself, "Jiang Yechen really has had some bad luck¡ªlosing the woman he loved and now his family is facing disaster."However, Jiang Yechen and the Jiang Family¡¯s misfortune was good news for Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi.


    Jiang Yechen¡¯s poor situation meant he was on weaker footing, making him more likely to agree to their terms.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    "Big Brother Lan."


    Apanied by the sound of wind chimes, a delicate voice called out as a young girl in a yellow dress descended onto Little Turtle Peak, riding arge bird.


    Qi Feng, who was on guard duty, sensed the faint spiritual pressure emanating from the girl. It seemed even stronger than Grandfather Lan¡¯s, which left him stunned.


    "Ah Feng! That¡¯s Miss Zhou. Quickly, open the formation," Lan Rou reminded him from beside the pool.


    Qi Feng hurriedlyplied, retrieving the formationmand token and allowing Zhou Qingxuan to enter.


    Squeak, squeak!


    A small, orange-purple rat demon scurried out of Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s spirit pouch.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The rat demon was about the size of a small dog, its eyes gleaming coldly as it red at the unfamiliar, burly man in front of it.


    Hiss!


    Qi Feng felt a sudden jolt to his mind, his face turning pale.


    The aura of murderous intent from the rat demon was overwhelming¡ªit had clearly reached the peak of the second rank!


    Qi Feng had never encountered such a powerful demonic beast in his life.


    "Not bad. In just a few months, its cultivation has improved significantly, and it¡¯s even learned the ¡®Shrinking Technique,¡¯" Lan Chang''an said as he appeared not far away, smiling as he observed the now more "petite" Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Previously, as the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s cultivation had increased, its size had grownrger than that of a mortal tiger or leopard.


    But after returning from the Zhou Family¡¯s beast-taming grounds, it had learned a demonic technique.


    The Shrinking Technique was amon technique among demonic beasts, but it wasn¡¯t easy for a low-intelligence second-rank demonic beast to master.


    Whoosh!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat left a blurry afterimage as it darted toward Lan Chang''an, affectionately rubbing against his pant leg, as if expressing how much it had missed him during the past few months of separation.


    "I heard you were living the good life at the Zhou Family¡¯s ce, and got yourself a few girlfriends? You still know how toe home, huh?"


    Lan Chang''an chuckled as he patted its head, secretly inspecting it for any hidden tampering left by the Zhou Family.


    Fortunately, the Earth Burrowing Rat showed no signs of any subtle tricks or traps nted by the Zhou Family.


    After undergoing the "Blood Spirit Pool" baptism, its bloodline had been slightly improved, though the enhancement wasn¡¯t too obvious.


    Its bloodline was now considered quite good, roughly at the upper-middle level of the superior grade.


    "Big Brother Lan, the Earth Burrowing Rat ultimately chose toe back on its own. For a demonic beast, showing this level of self-control is already quite remarkable," Zhou Qingxuan said with a softugh as she covered her mouth.


    She then recounted some of the details about the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s time at the Zhou Family.


    Even among the other beasts in the Zhou Family¡¯s menagerie, the Earth Burrowing Rat was among the strongest, and it had ruled over the other rat demons like a king.


    Originally born in the Zhou Family¡¯s beast-taming grounds, the Earth Burrowing Rat had reconnected with some of its former kin, which made it feel right at home.


    Those other rat demons eagerly catered to the Earth Burrowing Rat, making sure it was well taken care of.


    "By the way, did the Earth Burrowing Rat leave behind any offspring while it was at the Zhou Family?" Lan Chang''an suddenly asked, realizing that he had forgotten to mention this earlier or hadn¡¯t paid much attention to it.


    "Ugh, our Zhou Family certainly tried to breed it. But despite all our efforts, it didn¡¯t manage to sire even one offspring," Zhou Qingxuan said bitterly.


    Given the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s mutated bloodline and formidablebat abilities, the Zhou Family had naturally wanted to breed it to pass down its lineage. Unfortunately, their attempts were in vain.


    "In that respect, it¡¯s a bit like..." Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s eyes sparkled with amusement as she trailed off, catching herself mid-sentence.


    "Like what?" Lan Chang''an stared at her nkly.


    "Ah! I meant that the Earth Burrowing Rat is self-taught, highly intelligent, and bears a striking resemnce to Big Brother Lan in that regard," Zhou Qingxuan said with a mischievous smile as she coyly wrapped her arm around his.


    ...


    Five dayster.


    Inside the cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak.


    Zhou Qingxuan, dressed in light white silk, adjusted her disheveled hair.


    With a teasing nce at the white-robed man before her, she sighed softly, "Big Brother Lan, Liang Kingdom has already sunk into the quagmire of this war. In theing years, the mes of conflict will likely spread throughout thend."


    "Our Zhou Family, with the ck Fog Mountain Range at our back and the Jing Kingdom not far away, can retreat or advance with ease. Won¡¯t you reconsider...?"


    "No need to say more. I have my own ns."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was firm.


    Rationally, joining the Zhou Family was a viable option.


    The Zhou Family had long been interested in his secrets concerning the cultivation of spirit beasts.


    Zhou Qingxuan, constrained by her heart demon oath, wanted to draw closer to him, ideally by bearing his child, which would make her feel more secure.


    However, both Lan Chang''an and the Earth Burrowing Rat had refused to leave any offspring with the Zhou Family.


    "In the next few years, the family will need to prepare for war and help me n for Core Formation. During that time, I likely won¡¯t have many opportunities to meet with Big Brother Lan..."


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s delicate lips quivered as she spoke cautiously.


    "Go ahead and take care of your business. As long as you uphold your heart demon oath, I won¡¯t go back on my word."


    Lan Chang''an understood her concerns.


    Zhou Qingxuan was worried that Lan Chang''an might try to control her and prevent her from forming a core.


    Once she sessfully formed a core, especially if she reached the True Dan stage, she would have a chance to reverse her situation.


    Hearing his reassurance, Zhou Qingxuan let out a long breath.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s decision not to hinder her Core Formation showed that he truly didn¡¯t harbor malicious intentions.


    "Big Brother Lan, you saved my life. If I¡¯m fortunate enough to seed in Core Formation, I will repay you."


    "Please, take care of yourself, Big Brother Lan."


    Before leaving, Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s eyes misted with tears as she gave Lan Chang''an a heartfelt embrace.


    "Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not going to die."


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t be sure how much genuine affection Zhou Qingxuan had for him, but he knew one thing for certain¡ªshe didn¡¯t want him dead.


    If Lan Chang''an were to die, the Gu insect restriction nted in Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sea of consciousness would activate without his magic to stabilize it, causing it to explode.


    The restriction, left by the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, was a high-level restriction that even ate-stage Core Formation Immortal would struggle to remove.


    Even if Zhou Qingxuan managed to reach Core Formation, she wouldn¡¯t be able to deal with it.


    Only if Lan Chang''an himself formed a core and obtained the corresponding techniques would it be possible to lift the curse.


    The ck Fog Mountain Range wasn¡¯t far from Wuqi Mountain.


    In the future, Lan Chang''an would extend the interval between the curse¡¯s activation. Zhou Qingxuan would only need to visit once a year, or Lan Chang''an could approach the Zhou Family and cast his spell from afar to maintain the restriction.


    ...


    "This woman¡¯s chances of forming a True Dan are slim."


    After Zhou Qingxuan left, Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes flickered as he fell into deep thought.


    After the removal of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sea of consciousness had been damaged. On top of that, she had suffered injuries to her foundation from Immortal Huanglong, which would hinder her Core Formation.


    The presence of the Gu insect restriction was also a constant psychological burden.


    It was like an invisible sword hanging over her head, always threatening to fall.


    "I wonder how far along the Zhou Family¡¯s ns for Core Formation are," Lan Chang''an mused with some curiosity.


    Out of a sense of propriety, he hadn¡¯t been greedy enough to force Zhou Qingxuan to hand over her Core Formation materials.


    Besides, most of those resources hade from the Zhou Family¡¯s efforts, not Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s personal stash.


    The Zhou Family¡¯s influence wasn¡¯t weak. They had a third-rank spirit beast at the True Dan level, even if it was nearing the end of its life. They probably had more than one quasi-third-rank spirit beast as well.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t short on Crystal Condensation Pills.


    Unless it was a superior Crystal Condensation Pill that could improve the quality of the core formed, there wasn¡¯t much that would tempt him.


    He already had one genuine Crystal Condensation Pill, as well as more than 80% of the materials needed to refine another.


    These materials had originallye from Senior Brother Zhuo, the Night Fisherman.


    Initially, it had been about 70% of the required materials, but over the years, Lan Chang''an had gathered one or two more rare ingredients, bringing the total to over 80%.


    The most critical ingredient, the "Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower," had been spotted in the hands of Immortal Huanglong during a transaction, but there had been no further news since then.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t overly fixated on obtaining the Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower.


    He had enough rare auxiliary ingredients in his collection to potentially coborate with others in refining the pill, or he could directly trade for a Crystal Condensation Pill.


    For ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, trading Crystal Condensation Pills with others involves considerable risk. However, if it''s with a Fake Dan cultivator, it would be somewhat safer.


    ...


    Six monthster.


    At the summit of Little Turtle Peak, a surge of Qi-Refining ninthyer magical power erupted.


    "A breakthrough!"


    In a small wooden cabin on the mountain, Qi Feng sat cross-legged, channeling his energy with a joyful expression on his face.


    Beforeing to Wuqi Mountain, he had spent years stabilizing himself at the eighthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Over the past year, his life had been a rollercoaster¡ªfrom being hunted and wanted by the sect, to narrowly escaping death, and then bing a caretaker on Little Turtle Peak.


    With ess to the superior environment of a second-rank spiritual vein cultivation site and the guidance and rewards of ate-stage Foundation Establishment expert, Qi Feng, who had a solid foundation, had made rapid progress, breaking through to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining sooner than he had expected.


    "This boy¡¯s aptitude is average, just near mid-grade spiritual roots, but his determination and mental fortitude aren¡¯t bad. He still has some potential left in him."


    In the talisman-making room, Lan Chang''an had taken note of Qi Feng¡¯s breakthrough.


    He felt a slight sense of gratification that one of his adoptive father¡¯s descendants was turning out to be a decent immortal seedling.


    In the talisman room.


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his attention and focused on the ancient, greenish-gray talisman brush in his hand, dipping it into the crimson spiritual ink. With swift, fluid strokes, he began inscribing a talisman on the quasi-third-rank talisman paper.


    After a long while, intricate runes and patterns formed on the talisman paper, a brilliant light connecting the entire design.


    A powerful spiritual pressure shed across the room, enough to make any Foundation Establishment cultivator¡¯s heart tremble with fear.


    A quasi-third-rank talisman had been sessfully crafted.


    With Lan Chang''an¡¯s current cultivation and spiritual sense, his sess rate for crafting quasi-third-rank talismans was quite high. The only limitation was the scarcity of materials.


    As for true third-rank talismans, both his spiritual sense and magical power were stillcking¡ªespecially his magical power.


    Two years ago, he had purchased a piece of middle-grade third-rank spiritual wood at an auction, but he had yet to use it. asionally, he would nurture it with his magical power.


    Lan Chang''an had already deduced that, given his current condition, he could at best craft a low third-rank treasure talisman or talisman, though the result would be unstable and somewhat wasteful.


    The treasure talismans he had been nurturing over the years had already reached the power of low third-rank talismans, and he had more than ten of them. They weren¡¯t particrly scarce.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an nned to wait a few more years until he was in better condition and the circumstances were more favorable before attempting it.


    For example, recing his current quasi-third-rank talisman brush with a true third-rank talisman pen would increase his chances of sess.


    ...


    "Grandfather Lan, the ancestor of the Zheng Family is here to visit."


    Three dayster, Qi Feng, having stabilized his new cultivation level, came into the cave mansion to report.


    "Let them in," Lan Chang''an said calmly, sweeping his spiritual sense over the outer gate.


    For years, the Zheng Family had acted as his eyes and ears, running errands, gathering materials, and asionally handling tasks that required discretion.


    "Zheng Sheng greets Talisman Master Lan."


    Zheng Centipede looked old and haggard, his skin dark and weathered, his once-burly frame now hunched over.


    Standing behind him was a middle-aged schr, handsome and refined. He was the newly risen Foundation Establishment ancestor of the Apricot Vi¡¯s Zheng Family¡ªZheng Sheng, now serving as the family¡¯s Grand Elder.


    Zheng Sheng was in the early stage of Foundation Establishment and a second-rank talisman master, having crossed paths with Lan Chang''an once or twice.


    He was the sessor Zheng Centipede had painstakingly cultivated for years.


    "Fellow Daoist Zheng, you¡¯ve made your decision?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "When I was young, I fought and dueled with others frequently, leaving behind many hidden injuries. I have only twenty or thirty years left to live. If I can reduce the burden on my family by taking this old life to the battlefield, then it will be worth it." Zheng Centipede grinned, though his smile, once fierce and frightening, now looked weary on his aged face.


    "Then I wish you sess on the frontlines, for the defense of Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, and for the benefit of your descendants."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t try to dissuade him.


    He could feel Zheng Centipede¡¯s resolve to die.


    For both the Zheng Family and Zheng Centipede, this was likely the best option.


    Three months ago...


    The Liang Kingdom¡¯s army had suffered a devastating defeat at the frontlines, and the southern border had been breached by Feng Kingdom¡¯s cultivator forces.


    The Feng Kingdom army, led by the Golden Sun Sect, had officially invaded the Liang Kingdom¡¯s territory.


    One of the seven great families, the Jiang Family, had its ancestralnds conquered, suffering heavy losses. Had they not evacuated in time, they would have been wiped out.


    The Jiang Family¡¯s ancestralnds had since be a key base for Feng Kingdom¡¯s forces.


    With the mes of war spreading deep into the Liang Kingdom, the fate of every cultivation force was now intertwined with the oue of the conflict.


    The Liang Kingdom sects had ramped up their recruitment efforts.


    Foundation Establishment families like the Zheng Family were required to either send one Foundation Establishment cultivator or severalte-stage Qi-Refining cultivators, including talisman masters, alchemists, and other skilled individuals, to support the frontlines.


    Zheng Centipede, being a Foundation Establishment cultivator, would allow his family to send fewer people if he personally went to the frontlines.


    Otherwise, the loss of many young cultivators would shake the foundation of the family.


    "Talisman Master Lan, here is thetest war intelligence we¡¯ve gathered."


    Zheng Sheng respectfully handed a jade slip to Lan Chang''an.


    In the past, Zheng Centipede had always handled these tasks personally.


    Lan Chang''an epted the jade slip and examined the information within.


    The Zheng Family was only one of many sources from which he gathered intelligence.


    For more critical updates, Lan Chang''an would asionally visit the Tian Zhi Pavilion himself.


    "Up until now, there¡¯s been no direct confrontation between Liang Kingdom and Feng Kingdom''s Nascent Soul True Monarchs?"


    "That¡¯s right. We¡¯ve only heard that the ¡®Master Lihuo¡¯ had a brief standoff with Golden Sun Sect¡¯s Nascent Soul True Monarch, but both sides were cautious," Zheng Sheng replied.


    Lan Chang''an nodded slightly. If Nascent Soul True Monarchs were to fight, the sheer power and devastation would be impossible to conceal.


    Years ago, through top-tier intelligence from the Tian Zhi Pavilion, Lan Chang''an had learned that the Nascent Soul True Monarch of the Fire Departure Pce had been gravely injured, barely escaping death. It would take at least twenty years for him to fully recover.


    Based on the current timeline, Master Lihuo¡¯s injuries were likely still not fully healed, leaving him far from peak condition.


    The Nascent Soul True Monarch of the Golden Sun Sect, on the other hand, had no known injuries and was in a much better state, yet he hadn¡¯t taken advantage of the situation.


    Lan Chang''an sensed that Golden Sun Sect was aiming to achieve its strategic goals while conserving its strength, likely in anticipation of future developments.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an concluded a trade with the two Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Zheng Family.


    He sold them some second-rank talismans, along with a second-rank low-grade puppet.


    Before leaving, Zheng Centipede made a request, asking Lan Chang''an to continue looking after the Zheng Family in the future.


    Now that Lan Chang''an had reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment, he was considered a great cultivator within his rank and had strong connections within Jin Yun Valley.


    The Zheng Family saw Lan Chang''an as their pir of support, treating him with utmost respect and following his lead.


    However, Lan Chang''an could only silently apologize. His assistance to the Zheng Family would likely end here.


    Zheng Centipede¡¯s fate reminded Lan Chang''an of the Mu Family from Feiyue Lake.


    The Mu Family had many young cultivators and had sent several of them to the frontlines.


    Li Erqing had also been conscripted. Fortunately, he hadn¡¯t been sent to the most dangerous parts of the battlefield. Instead, he had been assigned to maintain order and security at the rear, clearing out enemy scouts from Feng Kingdom¡¯s cultivation forces.


    This was thanks to his connections within the sect, which had helped him secure a safer role.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    A transmission talisman flew over from Xiao Pan Peak.


    Lan Chang''an caught it and listened to the voice contained within, a smile spreading across his face.


    "Jiang Yechen was severely injured on the frontlines and narrowly escaped with his life?"


    The Jiang Family had lost their ancestralnds, with some n members fleeing and others dead.


    This time, Jiang Yechen had softened his tone considerably, sending word through his rtives that he was willing toe to Wuqi Mountain to sincerely discuss matters.


    Recalling how audacious Jiang Yechen had been in his demands before, Lan Chang''an seemed to see a youth thoroughly beaten down by the harsh realities of life.

 Chapter 204: Seven Days and Seven Nights

    Five or six monthster.


    Lan Changan''s first year ofte stage Foundation Establishment passed, reaching the age of one hundred and forty-one.


    Certain rising Foundation Establishment geniuses of the sect might have been born a hundred yearster than him.


    At the same time, the Profound Water Turtle was nearing its 100th birthday.


    With its slow-growth nature, it would typically take one to two hundred years for the Profound Water Turtle to advance to the second rank. Of course, there were exceptions, such as encountering legendary treasures of the heavens and earth, which could significantly elerate its cultivation.


    Some spectors, such as the Beast Taming Zhou Family, wondered if Lan Chang''an possessed a special method or secret.


    However, with Lan Chang''an¡¯s current strength and connections, protecting a few secrets was no longer a challenge.


    The advancement speed of a Profound Water Turtle such as this one was still rtively slow, far from the majority of spirit pets or demonic beasts of the same bloodline rank.The Profound Water Turtle¡¯s greatest strength was its defense, though its offensive capabilities werecking. Forrger powers and elite cultivators, its appeal wasn¡¯t very high¡ªraising it didn¡¯t yield much benefit. Its biggest advantage was its longevity, far exceeding that of most living creatures.


    Shortly after the Profound Water Turtle turned a hundred years old, Jiang Yechen finally arrived at Wuqi Mountain.


    He didn¡¯te alone. Apanying him were a few young Qi-Refining cultivators from the Jiang Family.


    ...


    "I apologize for making Fairy Shi wait so long. I spent several months recovering from my injuries, and after settling the affairs of my family, I was dyed further."


    At Xiao Pan Peak, Jiang Yechen cupped his hands apologetically.


    d in a luxurious purple robe, his sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes retained their handsomeness, though he now appeared more fatigued, as if he had aged five or six years since theyst met.


    While his features weren¡¯t as youthful as before, the once delicateness had also significantly diminished.


    "It¡¯s understandable. I¡¯ve heard of the misfortunes that have befallen the Jiang Family."


    With an elegant smile, Fairy Shi gracefully led Jiang Yechen into the cave dwelling.


    Lan Chang''an, watching from Little Turtle Peak, observed the scene but did not immediately join them.


    The matter of Fairy Shi recovering her memories was a personal affair, the true nature of which was unknown to outsiders.


    Inside the cave-dwelling on Xiao Pan Peak, after a secret discussionsting nearly an hour, Shi Manrong escorted Jiang Yechen out.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang, please wait here at Wuqi Mountain for two more days while I consider everything."


    That night, Jiang Yechen and his entourage were settled into guest quarters at Wuqi Mountain.


    Later in the evening, Fairy Shi came to Little Turtle Peak for a private discussion with Lan Chang''an.


    "This time, Jiang Yechen didn¡¯t make any outrageous demands, such as asking for core formation materials. However, his requests are still far from modest," Shi Manrong reported.


    Jiang Yechen had two conditions.


    The first was to purchase a batch of war supplies at a discounted price. These included formations, talismans, and pills, with a total value exceeding 20,000 spirit stones.


    However, Jiang Yechen offered to pay only 60% of the market price.


    The second request was to have a few of the younger, more promising Qi-Refining descendants of the Jiang Family relocated to Wuqi Mountain.


    During the war, Fairy Shi would need to ensure their safety and provide them with ess to the spiritual vein for cultivation, for a period not exceeding twenty years.


    The conditions Jiang Yechen proposed aligned with the current situation of the Jiang Family.


    "Jiang Yechen has a keen eye. Wuqi Mountain¡¯s location makes it an ideal ce for the younger nsmen to seek refuge," Lan Chang''an remarked after a brief moment of thought.


    Wuqi Mountain was located in the central region of the Liang Kingdom, to the northwest. Just north of it was the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Currently, the war in the cultivation world was concentrated along the southern border of the Liang Kingdom, so it wouldn¡¯t reach the core areas controlled by the me Departing Pce anytime soon.


    Wuqi Mountain was also not far from the center of the Liang Kingdom, with easy routes for retreat to the north and west, and it was well-connected in terms of information.


    Additionally, as a stronghold for loose cultivators, even if Liang Kingdom suffered a major defeat, Wuqi Mountain was unlikely to be a primary target of Feng Kingdom¡¯s cultivators.


    After discussing the matter, Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi agreed to Jiang Yechen¡¯s conditions in principle, though they nned to negotiate for a better price.


    "By the way, on his way to Wuqi Mountain, Jiang Yechen was intercepted by spies from Feng Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world. He was temporarily conscripted by me Departing Pce cultivators, which dyed him," Fairy Shi added.


    "Spies from an enemy country?"


    Lan Chang''an realized that the Liang Kingdom was now more chaotic than in past years, with hidden dangers lurking everywhere.


    Even in the rear, safety was not guaranteed.


    As the war dragged on, more spies and scouts from Feng Kingdom¡¯s cultivation forces would infiltrate deep into Liang Kingdom¡¯s territory, stirring up trouble and creating chaos.


    This suggested that there was room for formation tools and talismans to appreciate in value.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    After further negotiations between Fairy Shi and Jiang Yechen, they reached an agreement.


    Both parties were sincere in their dealings, and neither were the type to haggle endlessly over every little detail, so the negotiations didn¡¯t take long.


    Fairy Shi agreed to protect the Jiang Family¡¯s younger members for fifteen years, to the best of her abilities.


    The war supplies, primarily consisting of formations and talismans, were sold at a 30% discount from market prices.


    This time, Lan Chang''an was present and alsomitted to providing some talismans at rtively low prices.


    As for the memory restoration process, Fairy Shi asked Lan Chang''an to act as her protector, to guard against any potential idents.


    The term "protector" was more of a euphemism for "watcher."


    Jiang Yechen reluctantly agreed, saying, "In ordinary circumstances, I wouldn¡¯t disy this treasure to outsiders, let alone risk depleting its spiritual energy."


    "I hope the two of you will keep this to yourselves and swear a heart demon oath."


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi agreed and, in return, asked Jiang Yechen to make a corresponding oath to keep the details of their transaction confidential.


    After the oaths were sworn, Fairy Shi activated a secret chamber for Jiang Yechen to use in restoring her memories.


    Inside the chamber, the three of them sat cross-legged on meditation mats.


    Jiang Yechen and Shi Manrong sat facing each other.


    "Activate!" Jiang Yechen chanted, forming hand seals as a surge of spiritual energy rippled from him, far exceeding the typical range of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator¡¯s spiritual sense.


    Buzz!


    A pale green, translucent jade stone hovered above his palm, radiating gentle waves of verdant light.


    Jiang Yechen pointed a finger, and the jade shrank to the size of a palm, pressing itself against Fairy Shi¡¯s forehead.


    "A soul Dao treasure? At least middle-grade third-rank," Lan Chang''an noted, observing the tiny cracks on the surface of the jade, indicating its diminished spiritual energy.


    "What a waste of a precious item."


    Lan Chang''an inwardly sighed, guessing the general function of this soul Dao treasure.


    It likely had the ability to nourish and repair the soul, temporarily enhance spiritual sense, or defend against spiritual attacks duringbat.


    However, due to Jiang Yechen¡¯s own limitations, he had continually drained the jade¡¯s power without being able to nurture it back to its full potential, leading to the gradual loss of its spiritual essence.


    Perhaps the treasure had already been damaged when Jiang Yechen first acquired it.


    As Jiang Yechen cast his spell, the translucent waves of green light flowed like water into Fairy Shi¡¯s forehead, entering her sea of consciousness.


    Fairy Shi remained calm andposed, showing no signs of difort.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense was much stronger than Jiang Yechen¡¯s, and he kept a close watch to ensure that Jiang Yechen didn¡¯t attempt any tricks.


    Jiang Yechen had a soul Dao treasure, his senses were sharp, and he vaguely detected the presence of a spiritual sense that was beyond his own.


    His heart was in shock, making his back break out in a cold sweat. His actions became even more cautious, not daring to touch the deeper parts of Fairy Shi¡¯s sea of consciousness.


    Jiang Yechen had dared toe to Wuqi Mountain alone, confident in his abilities to face twote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, particrly because of his strong spiritual sense.


    A powerful spiritual sense often gave cultivators an advantage inbat, allowing them to anticipate an opponent¡¯s moves and enhance the power of their magical weapons or treasures.


    Now, sensing a spiritual presence even stronger than his own, possibly at the Fake Dan level, Jiang Yechen realized that Wuqi Mountain was far more formidable than he had anticipated.


    This realization made him aware of the significant risk he had taken.


    Lan Chang''an was aware that Jiang Yechen might have noticed the presence of his spiritual sense, but he wasn¡¯t particrly concerned.


    First, Jiang Yechen couldn¡¯t be sure that the powerful spiritual sense came from Lan Chang''an. It was entirely possible that a Fake Dan cultivator was hidden within Wuqi Mountain.


    Second, Lan Chang''an had only two important matters left to resolve within Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, both rted to his Core Formation ns, with the ancient ruin being one of them.


    Once those matters were dealt with, he nned to flee to another country. Even if his true strength was partially revealed, it wouldn¡¯t matter much.


    As Jiang Yechen continued his efforts to restore the memories, he expended a considerable amount of mental energy.


    Every half-day or so, he needed to stop and meditate for several hours to recover.


    ...


    Before they knew it, seven days had passed.


    At the adjacent Little Pill Peak.


    "It¡¯s been seven days, and Fairy Shi and the others still haven¡¯te out?" Ye Fei muttered in confusion as he nced at the sealed formation surrounding Xiao Pan Peak.


    Fairy Shi¡¯s cave dwelling at Xiao Pan Peak was known for not allowing male cultivators to stay overnight, except for Lan Chang''an, who had once been her lover.


    Even then, Lan Chang''an had never stayed more than a single night.


    Now, it had been seven days and seven nights. Two men and one woman had been cooped up in the cave without emerging, which was quite unusual.


    Just as the sun began to set, three figures finally emerged from Xiao Pan Peak¡¯s cave dwelling.


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi smiled as they escorted Jiang Yechen out.


    "I hope the two of you will keep your word," Jiang Yechen said, looking pale and unwell. He shot a final nce at the two of them before flying away from Xiao Pan Peak.


    "Fellow Daoist Jiang!"


    As Jiang Yechen passed by Little Pill Peak, Ye Fei greeted him and exchanged a few polite words.


    Hiss!


    "Jiang Yechen looks so pale, and his movements seem unsteady as if he¡¯s suffered a loss of vitality?" Ye Fei gasped in shock as he watched the handsome cultivator fly away.


    His mind raced, piecing together the fact that the three of them had been inside the cave for seven days and seven nights. His expression grew increasingly colorful.


    "Fellow Daoist Shi, take some time to rest and recover," Lan Chang''an said to Fairy Shi after exchanging a few words. He then flew away from Xiao Pan Peak.


    Sensing someone watching him, he nced toward Little Pill Peak.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan," Ye Fei called out awkwardly, offering a distant greeting.


    After Lan Chang''an returned to Little Turtle Peak, Ye Fei couldn¡¯t help but admire him.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s cultivation of the life-nurturing technique must be extraordinary. After seven days and seven nights, he lookspletely unfazed, unlike Jiang Yechen, who¡¯s clearlycking in stamina. Truly a man of great endurance," Ye Fei thought with deep respect.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Shi Manrong visited Little Turtle Peak to discuss the situation with Lan Chang''an in private.


    "How are you feeling, Fellow Daoist Shi?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "My sea of consciousness has stabilized, and I¡¯ve recovered many of my memories, including some details about the interior of the ancient ruin," Shi Manrong replied. After a brief hesitation, she added, "But I can¡¯t be certain that all of my memories have returned."


    "Recovering the key memories is what¡¯s important."


    Lan Chang''an reassured her.


    "I¡¯d like to confirm something, though."


    Shi Manrong¡¯s voice was soft and gentle, carrying a certain warmth and allure despite her typically dignified demeanor.


    "How do you n to confirm it?" Lan Chang''an asked, maintaining hisposure.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, do you think I¡¯m beautiful?"


    Shi Manrong gently leaned closer, her silver-ted face flushed with a hint of pink.


    Dressed in a moon-white gown, her graceful and refined figure exuded an air of high-ss elegance. She lifted the hem of her skirt slightly and, with a delicate sway of her hips, sat on Lan Chang''an¡¯sp.


    Lan Chang''an felt a wave of familiarity wash over him.


    He quickly recalled that this was exactly how she had behaved years ago, during their first intimate encounter.


    Back then, Shi Manrong, in order to break the restriction in the sea of consciousness, had tried to seduce Lan Chang''an.


    "Are you sure about this, Fairy Shi?" Lan Chang''an asked with a wry smile, wrapping his arm around her waist.


    The scene mirrored that of the past.


    But this time, there was no pretense of ying hard to get.


    Shi Manrong¡¯s cheeks glowed with the brightness of morning dew as she leaned her head against Lan Chang''an¡¯s chest, her scent like the fragrant night-blooming jasmine filling the room.


    Outside the cave, the moonlight was especially enchanting.


    As time passed, Shi Manrong¡¯s hairpins fell askew, her delicate breath carrying a soft fragrance as her face grew more radiant with flushed intensity.


    At the end, shey limp in Lan Chang''an¡¯s arms. One of her slender, graceful legs raised in a beautiful arc, her embroidered shoe slipping off, revealing her pale jade foot wrapped in silken white stockings.


    The next morning.


    Lan Chang''an watched as Shi Manrong straightened her gown, lookingpletely pristine and dignified.


    Ever since he had pretended to be in a rtionship with Zhou Qingxuan, this was the first time he had been intimate with Fairy Shi again.


    Perhaps it was the restoration of her memories, with feelings from both their shared past and present merging, that had broken the barrier between them.


    "Last night was the final time."


    Shi Manrong¡¯s clear gaze was unusually serene, and in that moment, she resembled the same calm andposed formatoin master he had met seventy years ago at Wuqi Mountain, when she was as tranquil as a chrysanthemum in bloom.


    "I understand. From now on, we¡¯ll be nothing more than fellow Daoists."


    Lan Chang''an had already sensed thatst night¡¯s indulgence was a final farewell to their fleeting romance.


    With the immense allure of the ancient ruin, even cultivators who had been truepanions for a hundred years could turn on each other in pursuit of greater power.


    To be honest, Lan Chang''an was already relieved that Fairy Shi hadn¡¯t tried to stab him in the back during their intimate moments.


    Having lived through multiple lifetimes and witnessed countless betrayals, Lan Chang''an had remained wary the entire time.


    His body, refined to the level of a Fake Dan cultivator, and his Evergreen Technique¡¯s resistance to poison ensured that, even with precautions in ce, he would not fall victim to any foul y.


    "Private matters and business are two separate things¡ªthat¡¯s what Fellow Daoist Lan once said."


    Fairy Shi smiled charmingly.


    "The ancient ruin was something I discovered. Without profound knowledge of formations, it would be impossible to break through its defenses. As for the gains inside, we¡¯ll split them sixty-forty. Do you have any objections, Fellow Daoist Lan?"


    "As someone who joined midway as an assistant, I¡¯m more than satisfied with forty percent," Lan Chang''an replied without issue.


    In truth, verbal agreements like these held little weight. Unless the entire expedition went smoothly without any contention, there was no guarantee.


    Within the ancient ruin, unexpected situations could arise at any time. In the end, strength was what truly mattered.


    "Very well. Let¡¯s spend the next two months preparing. After that, we¡¯ll head for the ck Fog Mountain Range together."


    With that, Fairy Shi gracefully left.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment. With her memories restored, Fairy Shi now had a better understanding of the ancient ruin and would likely make certain preparations in advance.


    From this perspective, she now held more control over the situation.


    "Years ago, that Fake Dan cultivator known as ¡®Qi Immortal¡¯ had nted a restriction on Fairy Shi, attempting to control her. In the end, he met his demise in the ancient ruin."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes flickered as he contemted the past.


    At that time, Fairy Shi had denied any involvement in the cultivator¡¯s death, iming it wasn¡¯t her doing.


    But considering that her life had been threatened, even if it had been her scheme, no one could me her.


    ...


    In the two months that followed, Lan Chang''an began making preparations.


    He took inventory of his magical weapons, treasures, talismans, puppets, and pills.


    At present, he had about twenty regr quasi-third-rank talismans.


    He also had more than forty treasure talismans, all of which exceeded the power of quasi-third-rank talismans. Among them were ten or so treasure talismans created using third-rank spirit wood as the medium, all with power at least equivalent to low third-rank.


    He also had several top-grade second-rank puppets.


    While Lan Chang''ancked the expertise and materials to craft true third-rank puppets, he had managed to create one puppet with defensive capabilities equivalent to a quasi-third-rank treasure.


    In addition, he had several precious pills that could temporarily boost his magical power.


    A monthter, his preparations wereplete.


    It was at this time that an urgent letter arrived from the Apricot Vi, delivered to Little Turtle Peak.


    "Zheng Centipede died on the frontlines."


    Lan Chang''an read the letter aloud, his voice soft as he murmured the words.

 Chapter 205: Beaten to the Punch

    Northwest of Huanglong Immortal City.


    A light mist shrouded the boundless, dark mountain range.


    A second-rank spirit boat streaked through the sky, gradually slowing down as it approached the outskirts of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Onboard, a man and woman stood side by side, both dressed in ck robes and appearing like a middle-aged Foundation Establishment couple.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, the risks of this trip might be no less than venturing into a battlefield. Have you made any final arrangements?"


    Shi Manrong, dressed in a ck gown, had disguised herself, making her features less conspicuous.


    "I have no family or descendants, so there¡¯s nothing to arrange," Lan Chang''an replied indifferently.


    "Why? After attending Fellow Daoist Zheng''s funeral, did seeing it stir something in you, Fairy Shi? Have you left matters unresolved?"Just days ago, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong had departed from Wuqi Mountain to attend the funeral of Zheng Centipede.


    Though Shi Manrong didn¡¯t know Zheng Centipede well, she used the funeral as an excuse to step out, allowing the two of them to secretly head toward the ancient ruin in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    During the funeral, the appearance of twote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators¡ªeven briefly¡ªgave the Zheng Family great face and deterred potential enemies.


    At the Zheng Family¡¯s ancestral home, the two learned a grim detail:


    Zheng Centipede had died on the battlefield, and no one had even recovered his body. His bones had vanished without a trace.


    The dangers of exploring ancient ruin rivaled those of the battlefield. If they encountered misfortune, they might die without leaving a body behind, suffering the same fate as Zheng Centipede.


    "Like you, Fellow Daoist Lan, I am also without attachments," Shi Manrong smiled lightly, then suggested, "Why don¡¯t we make a pact? If one of us meets an untimely end, the other will help to recover the body and offer burial, as long as it doesn¡¯t endanger their own life. And of course, the surviving party will inherit the deceased¡¯s possessions."


    Lan Chang''an agreed to the pact and reassured her, "With your talent in formations, and assuming you don¡¯t let greed get the better of you, I believe we¡¯ll both make it out alive."


    ...


    As they ventured deeper into the ck Fog Mountain Range, the two slowed down, flying just above the treetops.


    "There seem to be more cultivators here than usual," Lan Chang''an muttered.


    The ck Fog Mountain Range, typically devoid of human activity, now showed clear signs of increased traffic.


    Along the natural cracks in the mountains and the ck Blood Road carved by ancient sages, they even saw sect cultivators guarding certain points.


    This phenomenon was a direct result of the ongoing cultivation war.


    Some cultivators, seeking to escape the conflict, had fled to the outer reaches of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Among the figures they passed, a few emanated a strong killing intent, likely fugitives wanted by their sects.


    Half a monthter.


    As they pressed deeper, the number of cultivators they encountered dwindled.


    The area they now traversed was far more dangerous than the outskirts of the mountain range. The asional demonic beasts they encountered were basically of the second rank, with no shortage of powerful demonic beasts of thete second rank.


    Their most perilous encounter was when a quasi-third-rank demonic bird streaked through the sky nearby.


    Such beasts were much faster than Fake Dan cultivators. If ched onto them, it would be almost impossible to escape.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an reacted quickly, and together with Shi Manrong, they concealed themselves and suppressed their auras in time.


    "When I came here in the past, the surrounding beasts weren¡¯t nearly this powerful," Shi Manrong said, her heart still pounding from the close call. She continued leading the way based on her memory of the ruins¡¯ location.


    ...


    "We¡¯re close," Shi Manrong said half a dayter as a jagged peak came into view.


    Deep within the towering peaks ahead, Lan Chang''an sensed a foreboding aura. It was possible that a Fake Dan or even a true third-rank great demon lurked nearby.


    Thankfully, they wouldn¡¯t need to venture much deeper, as the ancient ruins Shi Manrong remembered were located not far from their current position.


    The two descended into a valley surrounded by the towering peaks.


    Below, a vast, rotting swamp stretching across hundreds of acres appeared before them.


    Even from a distance, Lan Chang''an could smell the foul stench emanating from the swamp, a result of the poisonous gases it emitted.


    Even a Foundation Establishment cultivator would feel dizzy after inhaling just one breath of the swamp¡¯s noxious fumes.


    The swamp was home to various poisonous creatures, such as snakes, insects, and scorpions, as well as hidden monstrosities.


    Both humans and demonic beasts tended to avoid this ce.


    Perhaps it was the poisonous environment, but the swamp seemed to block out spiritual sense far better than ordinary rocky terrain.


    "Someone¡¯s been here before," Shi Manrong said, her gaze fixed on a steep peak adjacent to the swamp, her expression changing drastically.


    The mountain walls were covered with thorny vines and weeds.


    At that moment, Lan Chang''an felt a cold, covert spiritual sense probing the area.


    "Careful!"


    Before his warning had fully left his mouth, several figures appeared on the steep peak adjacent to the swamp, their movements blurred by light and shadow.


    Shhh! Shhh! Shhh!


    A dozen strange, ck-glowing lotus seeds flickered through the air, enclosing Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong.


    The hastily activated protective barrier of Lan Chang''an¡¯s mana managed to block only two of the lotus seeds before being shattered.


    Rip!


    Shi Manrong¡¯s ck robe was torn, revealing a glimpse of her fair skin, though she hadn¡¯t been injured.


    The surface of those ck lotus seeds was clearly coated in a deadly poison.


    "A set of special supreme-grade magic weapons!" Shi Manrong¡¯s face grew serious as she formed a hand seal. The inneryer of her ck gown, a supreme-grade defensive robe, emitted a ck water-like barrier that enveloped her entire body.


    Lan Chang''an summoned a silver shield that spun around him at high speed, deflecting several more of the iing ck lotus seeds with a series of sharp ding sounds.


    However, the lotus seed attack was only the first wave.


    Following right behind it, a fire-sheathed flying sword sliced through the air, creating a massive me sword shadow five or six zhang long.


    At the same time, a cloud-like silk veil expanded in the air above them, forming a rotating umbre that emitted a powerful suction force, threatening to engulf the two of them from above.


    These two supreme-grade magical weapons were being wielded by mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, but their coordination in this ambush made them a significant threat to Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong.


    And that wasn¡¯t the end of it.


    Above the swamp, a powerful fluctuation of spiritual energy suddenly burst forth.


    "Toe out unscathed from Lady Wei¡¯s ''ck Lotus sh''... you¡¯re no ordinary cultivators," a tall, high-nosed youth in a cloak, standing on the steep mountainside,mented with a hint of surprise. His hands were forming seals as his magical power surged.


    In the air, a bronze spear with ancient patterns floated ominously, exuding pressure close to that of a true magical treasure.


    "A magical treasure prototype! Peakte-stage Foundation Establishment!"


    Now Lan Chang''an could see his attackers clearly.


    They were four Foundation Establishment cultivators, their forms previously hidden by a third-rank formation. They only revealed themselves afterunching their surprise attack.


    Aside from the high-nosed peakte-stage Foundation Establishment youth wielding the magical treasure prototype, there was a long-haired, cold, and beautiful woman who controlled the set of ck lotus tools. Her cultivation aura rivaled that of a true disciple from one of the major sects, though she practiced demonic cultivation methods.


    The other two were mid-stage Foundation Establishment, an elderly man and a middle-aged woman, wielding the fire-shrouded sword and the cloud veil respectively.


    Earlier, it was only the three lower-level cultivators who had attacked, and they had almost injured Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong.


    Now, the strongest among them¡ªthe high-nosed youth¡ªhad activated his magical treasure prototype.


    Crack!


    The air trembled with a thunderous sound.


    The bronze spear blurred and shot forward, tearing through space as lightning crackled around it, hurtling toward Lan Chang''an with Fake Dan level pressure.


    This attack, following the rhythm of the ambush, had the potential to kill an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator on the spot.


    "Did they take me for an easy target?"


    Lan Chang''an, who had only recently broken through to the seventh level of Foundation Establishment, had noticeably less spiritual energy than Shi Manrong, who was at the peak ofte-stage Foundation Establishment. It was clear he had been chosen as the weaker link to be swiftly killed or severely injured.


    Feigning panic, Lan Chang''an pped a top-grade second-rank defensive talisman onto himself, adding ayer of golden earth armor around his body.


    Boom!


    The earth armor cracked immediately, pierced by the bronze spear.


    The silver shield hovering in front of Lan Chang''an flickered, its light dimming rapidly, on the verge of falling.


    At the critical moment, Lan Chang''an summoned a heavily armored second-rank puppet, which wielded arge shield. With a heavy ng, the puppet managed to block the bronze spear, now down to just two or three-tenths of its original power.


    Shh!


    Lan Chang''an tilted his head just in time to avoid a ck lotus seed that had been fired stealthily at him.


    The ck lotus seed missed its mark, piercing through arge stone behind him, leaving a deep, corroded hole.


    Shi Manrong couldn¡¯t help but secretly sweat for Lan Chang''an.


    And this was with her doing her utmost to fend off the other three Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "Hmm? Quick reflexes!"


    The cold, long-haired woman blinked in surprise, clearly not expecting her stealthy lotus seed to miss its mark after Lan Chang''an had seemingly exhausted himself blocking the magical treasure prototype.


    "The kid¡¯s life-saving techniques aren¡¯t bad,"


    The high-nosed youth controlling the bronze spear was also secretly shocked.


    Ordinarily, any otherte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator would have been forced to drink bitter defeat, perhaps even dying on the spot. At the very least, they would have had to pay a steep price.


    Yet, Lan Chang''an¡ªdespite appearing to be in a panic¡ªwas still unscathed.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, let¡¯s set up a formation to deal with them,"


    Shi Manrong sent a message, her delicate hand waving as she dropped a formation disk on the ground, followed by several formation gs.


    In an instant, a haze of wind and sand enveloped the area around them.


    Fairy Shi, a master of formations, had quickly set up a temporary top-grade second-rank formation.


    This temporary formation would rapidly deplete the spirit stones in the array disk and couldn¡¯tst long.


    The cloaked youth with the bronze spear struck the formation with his magical treasure prototype, causing it to shake but failing to break through quickly.


    With the formation as their shield, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong no longer feared being overwhelmed by the group of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    They summoned their own magical weapons to counterattack, with Lan Chang''an also deploying several superior-grade second-rank puppets to strike back from within the safety of the formation.


    "Fairy Shi, it seems someone has already found this ce. Didn¡¯t you say before that aside from Qi Immortal, no one else knew the location of these ruins?"


    "It¡¯s been decades since I wasst here. I don¡¯t know the current situation. The concealment array I left at the entrance of the ruins must have long since disappeared."


    Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong secretly exchanged thoughts.


    "It seems someone has reestablished a third-rank formation here. The ancient ruins have likely been discovered. I suspect these cultivators aren¡¯t even the ones in charge," Fairy Shi added.


    In their fight, both had been holding back out of a sense of caution.


    Shi Manrong had not yet used any of her trump cards, like her talismanic treasure or hidden magical treasure prototype.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s powerful Earth Burrowing Rat had also not joined the battle.


    "After so many years, it¡¯s no surprise someone found this ce, especially with the recent influx of cultivators into the ck Fog Mountain Range."


    ...


    In the valley beside the swamp, both sides reached a temporary stalemate, unable to decisively overpower the other.


    "You useless fools!"


    An irritable, displeased voice echoed from beneath the swamp.


    Boom!


    A powerful Fake Dan aura burst forth as the poison-filled swamp was torn apart, revealing a towering figure bathed in a blue light.


    "Tan Immortal!"


    The four Foundation Establishment cultivators bowed deeply toward the neer.


    The blue light faded, revealing a middle-aged man with a square face and a thick beard.


    "Tan Immortal? Could he be the infamous traitor from me Departing Pce?"


    Shi Manrong¡¯s face paled as she scrutinized the figure in the sky, her breathing bing erratic.


    "So there really is a Fake Dan cultivator involved! The four just now were just minions guarding the gate."


    Lan Chang''an noticed Shi Manrong¡¯s tension.


    This Fake Dan Immortal was the strongest Fake Dan cultivator she had encountered yet.


    In Shi Manrong¡¯s view, she and Lan Chang''an could hold their own against an ordinary Fake Dan cultivator, and they had ways to escape with their lives.


    But this man was no ordinary Fake Dan cultivator.


    Tan Immortal, a defector from me Departing Pce, had once defeated two Fake Dan cultivators single-handedly, killing one of them in the process.


    On top of that, there were still fourte-stage and mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators supporting him, all of whom were no weaker than the two of them.


    "Break!"


    Tan Immortal gave a cold nce at the formation below and casually struck downward with his palm, unleashing a flood of Fake Dan energy in the shape of a giant hand.


    Boom!


    The top-grade second-rank formation instantly shattered, exposing Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong.


    Both grunted in pain as their blood churned, their bodies forcibly pushed back by the residual shockwaves, but they barely managed to regain their footing.


    "Tan Immortal, this humble one¡ª"


    Shi Manrong began to speak, bowing slightly as if to negotiate.


    Tan Immortal sneered in disdain and formed another hand seal.


    Roar!


    A massive torrent of water in the shape of a dragon¡¯s head surged through the air, roaring as it raced toward Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong, its overwhelming force shaking their very blood.


    The protective lights around their supreme-grade defensive magical weapons flickered and dimmed in an instant, shattering within two breaths under the assault.


    However, both Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong had protective talismans as backup, allowing them to block the remaining force of the water dragon¡¯s attack.


    "This man¡¯s strength is close to the early Core Formation stage," Lan Chang''an assessed internally.


    Tan Immortal frowned slightly and spat out a stream of cold light, which transformed into a dark, ancient-looking ruler.


    This was a true magical treasure, exuding a pressure close to that of a True Dan cultivator.


    The ck ruler spun above them, gathering deep blue light as it hovered over their heads, creating the suffocating feeling of an impending mountain copse.


    One strike from this ruler could easily crush a mountain.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression turned grim. This man was far more dangerous than either He Yuanwu or Xiang Jinglong had been.


    He doubted even his quasi-third-rank defensive talismans could withstand a full strike from the man¡¯s magical treasure.


    Shi Manrong¡¯s face paled as well. Her delicate hand produced arge blue talisman engraved with an intricately detailed ice spear.


    Even so, she didn¡¯t feel fully secure and secretly prepared another quasi-third-rank protective talisman.


    "Are you trying to make such a ruckus that the whole world knows about this ce?"


    Suddenly, a grumpy voice cut through the tension.


    "Hu Immortal!"


    "Master Hu!"


    From the steep mountainside connected to the swamp, a stone door swung open, and a short, ck-bearded elder stepped out.


    "A second Fake Dan cultivator?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart sank.


    If he wasn¡¯t mistaken, this second cultivator was a third-rank formation master, likely the one in charge of breaking through the defenses of the ancient ruins. Who knew how much progress they had already made?


    Had they arrived even a year or twoter, they might have found that the best spoils had already been imed.


    "Master Hu? Why are you here?"


    Shi Manrong¡¯s eyes lit up as she recognized the short, ck-bearded elder, her voice filled with surprise.


    "Huh? Little Shi, is that you?"


    Master Hu squinted at Shi Manrong, momentarily confused, before realizing who she was, his expression shifting to surprise.


    Both Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong had used disguises beforeing here.


    "Hu Immortal, what¡¯s your connection with these two?"


    Tan Immortal withdrew his ck ruler and gave Hu Immortal a questioning look.


    "Ah, there¡¯s no need to worry, Tan Immortal. Little Shi here is a talented formation master I once taught, and this meeting is nothing more than a coincidence,"


    Hu Immortal exined, then sent a few discreet voice transmissions to Tan Immortal.


    After their exchange, Tan Immortal¡¯s expression eased slightly. He nced at Shi Manrong and asked, "How did you two know about this ce?"


    "To tell the truth, Tan Immortal, I actually knew about this ce long before you did..."


    Shi Manrong realized there was no point in trying to deceive them. Even if she pretended to be ignorant of the ancient ruins, neither Fake Dan cultivator would believe her, and they certainly wouldn¡¯t let her and Lan Chang''an walk away.


    "I see. It seemsing early isn¡¯t as good as arriving at the right time."


    Hu Immortal stroked his beard with a chuckle.


    He turned to Tan Immortal and suggested, "Little Shi has great talent in formations and is quite familiar with the ruins. Why not let her join us and assist in breaking through the formations? What do you think, Tan Immortal?"


    "That works."


    Tan Immortal nodded. Adding another formation master would indeed expedite the process, and he didn¡¯t mind giving Hu Immortal some face.


    "What about this man? What¡¯s his rtionship to you?"


    Tan Immortal¡¯s gaze fell on Lan Chang''an.


    "This is Talisman Master Lan of Wuqi Mountain. He¡¯s a close friend of mine, and we originally nned to explore the ruins together,"


    Shi Manrong replied truthfully.


    "Talisman Master Lan¡¯s skill with talismans is impressive. I believe he could be of use to the two seniors."


    "We already have enough people. There¡¯s no need for a talisman master."


    Tan Immortal¡¯s tone turned cold as his gaze swept over Lan Chang¡¯an, his killing intent in for all to see.


    "Hu Immortal, could you make an exception...?"


    Shi Manrong pleaded softly.


    "Little Shi, I¡¯m afraid Tan Immortal has already made a concession by allowing you to join. The more people we bring along, the greater the variables,"


    Hu Immortal refused firmly, shaking his head.


    With a subtle movement of his hand, he manipted his Fake Dan power to separate Shi Manrong from Lan Chang''an.


    The four Foundation Establishment cultivators who had attacked earlier moved to encircle Lan Chang''an without needing further instruction.

 Chapter 206: Ancient Ruins

    Lan Chang''an naturally wouldn¡¯t sit idly by.


    As the four Foundation Establishment cultivators surrounded him, he pped the storage pouch at his waist.


    A leather-armored puppet, armed with a bow, appeared beside him, along with a top-grade second-rank heavy-armored puppet, which nked Lan Chang''an on either side.


    Swoosh!


    The heavy-armored puppet moved first, swiftly charging toward the cold, long-haired woman in thete Foundation Establishment stage. Forced into closebat, she was unable to easily use her ck Lotus sh for a sneak attack.


    The tall, high-nosed young man, dressed in arge cloak, smiled faintly as he put away his heavily energy-consuming prototype magic treasure and summoned a giant axe, a supreme-grade magic weapon.


    Suddenly, the peak Foundation Establishment youth with the high nose felt a faint sense of danger.


    Zzz! Swoosh!The leather-armored puppet, which had just appeared, drew its bow. The bowstring crackled with blue arcs of lightning as a silver-gray arrow shot forth, whistling like wind and thunder, aimed directly at the high-nosed young man''s face.


    ¡°A peak second-rank puppet?¡±


    The young man was startled, realizing he had underestimated Lan Chang''an. He had thought that ganging up on him would be an easy victory.


    Sensing the threat from the arrow, the young man had no choice but to retract his half-thrown giant axe and ce it in front of him as a shield.


    Boom!


    The arrow exploded like thunder, raising a whirlwind in its wake.


    A few blue arcs of lightning danced across the surface of the giant axe, dimming its spiritual light, rendering it ineffective in threatening Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°I misjudged him.¡±


    ¡°This kid¡­ he''s a top grade second-rank puppet master?¡±


    Hu Immortal and Tan Immortal exchanged surprised nces.


    Simultaneously controlling two second-rank high-quality puppets to such a degree was not something amon cultivator could achieve. Only a puppet master of the same level could pull it off.


    When a puppet was controlled by an ordinary cultivator versus a puppet master, there was a clear difference in both attack power and flexibility.


    Of course, given it was a one-versus-many situation, the two puppets could only hold off twote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators for a short time.


    But Lan Chang''an¡¯s goal was already achieved.


    A silver shield, a supreme-grade magic weapon, circled around him, blocking the attacks from the remaining two mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    With a hand seal, ck-green thorny vines sprouted from the swamp beneath him, growing wildly like fanged serpents, pouncing toward the two mid-stage cultivators.


    Given Lan Chang''an¡¯s current mana strength, his wood-element spells carried extraordinary power, not to mention the suppression from his higher cultivation realm.


    The elderly man with graying hair and the middle-aged woman, both at mid-stage Foundation Establishment, were caught off guard and began to struggle frantically to defend themselves.


    Hmph!


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze sharpened, his cheeks puffed, and he exhaled sharply.


    Boom!


    A thunderous sound, which seemed to strike at the soul itself, reverberated in the ears of the two mid-stage cultivators. Their eardrums buzzed, blood surged through their bodies, and their internal organs twisted in pain. Their bodies stiffened for a brief moment.


    This spell, the Thunder Roar Technique, was a difficult spell for Foundation Establishment cultivators to master. Its power depended on the strength of one''s mana and spiritual sense.


    When used by a higher-realm cultivator against a lower-realm opponent, the effects were even more pronounced.


    Ah!


    The middle-aged woman, whose foundation was slightly weaker, staggered as her body sank, entangled by the ck-green thorny vines. They quickly dragged her into the poisonous swamp.


    Gurgle gurgle!


    As the woman sank into the toxic swamp, the thorny vines coiled tightly around her body, which began to decay at a visible rate. Even when she regained her senses, it was toote to reverse the damage.


    ¡°Immortals, save me!¡±


    The graying old man, having regained his senses, performed a secret technique. A cloud of blood mist exploded from his legs, shattering the two vines wrapped around them.


    But the remaining vines quickly surged forward, closing in on him.


    ¡°How dare you kill my subordinate!¡±


    Tan Immortal, a tall and imposing figure, wore a dark expression. With a wave of his hand, a burst of blue light surged forward, crushing therge cluster of thorny vines emerging from the swamp.


    ¡°Thank you, Tan Immortal, for saving my life.¡±


    The old man, still at mid-stage Foundation Establishment, wiped the sweat from his brow, relieved to have survived.


    "Immortals, I wonder if you could use another ally?"


    With a calm smile, Lan Chang''an ceased his attacks.


    Since revealing his mastery as a peak second-rank puppet master, the two Immortals¡¯ attitudes had shifted noticeably.


    If not, his act of killing one of their subordinates would certainly have led to his immediate execution in their fury.


    The two Immortals red coldly at Lan Chang''an, their expressions grim.


    Discovering Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppet mastery had already made them hesitant to act.


    But what they hadn¡¯t expected was for him to turn the tables, killing a mid-stage Foundation Establishment subordinate while fighting four opponents at once.


    It was a tant p in the face for the two Immortals.


    Fairy Shi, her face pale, looked at the familiar young man in shock and disbelief.


    Having spent time with him at Wuqi Mountain, she had always suspected that Lan Chang''an was no ordinary cultivator. But she hadn¡¯t expected him to be hiding such formidable abilities.


    Not only was he a talisman master, but he had also reached the top of second-rank puppet mastery¡ªa much more difficult skill to perfect.


    However, considering how steadily Lan Chang''an had advanced over the years, it was conceivable that he could reach a high level in another skill of the Hundred Immortal Arts.


    ...


    After a brief exchange of nces, Tan Immortal spoke.


    "Lan kid, you being a puppet master could be of some use to us in exploring the ruins and breaking the formations.¡±


    ¡°However, killing this Immortal''s subordinate is a grave offense. I¡¯ll give you two options.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Please, Tan Immortal, do tell.¡±


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t surprised. By revealing his puppet mastery, he had already anticipated the situation.


    He had other options, of course, like using a treasure talisman to escape. After all, even a Fake Dan Immortal wouldn¡¯t be able to catch up to him.


    However, doing so carried too many uncertainties and risks¡ªhe might miss the opportunity to explore the ancient ruins.


    If he chose to fight the Immortals head-on¡­


    This area was deep within the ck Fog Mountain range. Arge-scale battle would likely attract the attention of nearby powerful demonic beasts.


    ¡°The first option: You die to atone for your arrogance and disrespect!¡±


    ¡°The second option: Kneel, admit your mistake, and submit to us. Let Hu Immortal nt a restriction on you.¡±


    Tan Immortal¡¯s eyes shed with killing intent. His Fake Dan-level spiritual sense locked onto Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Hu Immortal, can you show a bit of mercy? Lan¡¯s puppetry would be a great asset in breaking the formations within the ruins.¡±


    Shi Manrong, bowing low, pleaded to the short ck-bearded Immortal in front of her.


    p!


    Fairy Shi¡¯s head snapped to the side, a red handprint blooming on her fair cheek.


    ¡°Who do you think you are?¡±


    Hu Immortal¡¯s face darkened as he withdrew his hand.


    ¡°You don''t know how to be thankful for sparing your life, and you dare to plead for others?¡±


    Feeling the stinging pain on her face, Shi Manrong¡¯s heart sank to rock bottom.


    The worst-case scenario had arrived.


    Not only would Lan Chang''an have to submit to the restriction, but so would she.


    In the past, Hu Immortal had been kind to her, even offering guidance on formation techniques.


    As a third-rank formation master, Hu Immortal had a good reputation and wasn¡¯t known for bullying the weak.


    But here, within the ruins, with vast fortunes at stake and no human rules to constrain them, even once-gentle seniors revealed their darkest sides.


    ¡°Lan kid, hurry and make your choice. Our time is precious.¡±


    Tan Immortal¡¯s expression was indifferent as he summoned his ancient ruler-shaped magic treasure.


    Lan Chang''an furrowed his brow and flipped out a talisman engraved with lightning patterns.


    The faint, dangerous aura from the talisman made the three Foundation Establishment cultivators back away, their faces filled with dread.


    ¡°This is a quasi-third-rank ¡®Thunderbolt Talisman.¡¯¡±


    Lan Chang''an held the talisman between his fingers, mana swirling faintly at his fingertips.


    The two Immortals paused before quickly reacting.


    ¡°Stop!¡±


    Tan Immortal shouted in anger.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, we can talk about this!¡±


    Hu Immortal forced a smile, attempting to cate Lan Chang''an.


    A quasi-third-rank talisman wasn¡¯t a fatal threat to a Fake Dan Immortal.


    However, the Thunderbolt Talisman was a different case. The noise produced by this talisman was extremely loud!


    Once activated, it would startle the demonic beasts from at least a radius of several hundred li around them.


    The demonic beasts in the ck Fog Mountain range had keen senses and could detect disturbances from even greater distances.


    In the surrounding areas, there were demonic beasts quasi-third-rank, and even deeper, there were third-rank demonic monsters.


    If Lan Chang''an activated the Thunderbolt Talisman, it would expose the location of the ancient ruins, inevitably attracting the attention of powerful demonic beasts in the surrounding area.


    As the attention of the two Immortals was momentarily diverted, Fairy Shi moved swiftly, her figure shing as she returned to Lan Chang''an''s side.


    Clenching her teeth, her face resolute, she summoned a prototype of a golden ring-shaped magical treasure. She then moved behind Lan Chang''an, pressing her back against his, preventing any sneak attacks from the two Immortals.


    Seeing her actions, Lan Chang''an nodded to himself. It seemed that Fairy Shi had given up on the idea of defecting to the Immortal''s side.


    If she had chosen to ally with the two Immortals, her life and fate would be at their mercy. Decades ago, one of the Immortals, Qi Immortal, had ced a restriction on her, leaving a deep shadow in her heart.


    Now, by working with Lan Chang''an, there was still a chance for resistance.


    "Two Immortals, if you do not wish for the location of the ancient ruins to be exposed, listen to what I have to say," Lan Chang''an said slowly.


    "Please speak, Little Friend Lan," said Hu Immortal, his tone warm. He exchanged nces with Tan Immortal, both of them feeling somewhat helpless.


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi''s strength had far exceeded the averagete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators. As Fake Dan Immortals, they couldn''t easily kill them off quickly.


    "Besides the Thunderbolt Talisman, I, Lan, have other methods that can threaten even Fake Dan Immortals," Lan Chang''an continued calmly.


    Hearing this, the two Immortal''s faces showed contemtion, unsure of how much to believe.


    Lan Chang''an pressed on, "We are willing to assist the two Immortals in exploring the ancient ruins. When the timees, whatever is gained will be determined by one''s own luck and ability."


    "We have no objections to Little Friend Lan''s proposal," Tan Immortal and Hu Immortal quickly agreed.


    For now, they had to stabilize Lan Chang''an and keep him in check.


    ...


    "Little Friend Lan, Fairy Shi, please proceed," said Tan Immortal.


    On the mountainside, level with the swamp, stood a stone gate leading underground.


    The two Fake Dan Immortals, along with three Foundation Establishment cultivators, formed one group. Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi stood off to the side.


    The three Foundation Establishment cultivators castplicated nces toward the newly joined duo.


    "Let''s go," Lan Chang''an exchanged a nce with Shi Manrong.


    They had waited for many years for this moment, and now, advancing into the ruins was the best option.


    The two Fake Dan Immortals would never allow them to leave.


    Together, the pair entered the stone gate.


    Inside the gate, a tunnel led deep underground, bing increasingly spacious the further they went.


    As they descended, Lan Chang''an caught a faint whiff of the swamp''s decaying stench. It was clear that the ancient ruins they were heading toward were located beneath the poisonous gas swamp.


    As they continued downward, Tan Immortal, Hu Immortal, and the others followed behind without any sign of attack.


    Before closing the stone gate, Hu Immortal reinforced the third-rank concealment formation outside, adding further restrictions.


    Not long after, they reached the end of the tunnel, revealing a vast, brightly lit underground space.


    Before themy an expansive, exotic ancient architecturalplex, covered in the faint glow of a damaged formation, stretching for dozens of li.


    Over the ages, the power of the formation had faded, and the surfaces of the ancient buildings showed signs of weathering. Some areas had already copsed into ruins.


    At first nce, it looked like a forgotten ancient city.


    "This ruin was once the dwelling ce of an ancient civilization. Over the countless years of change, it was discovered by a sect from the near-ancient era, who then repurposed it as a refuge and backup treasury," Lan Chang''an recalled the information from the jade slip.


    After entering the ck Fog Mountain Range, Shi Manrong had given him a jade slip summarizing the general situation of the ruins.


    "The outer formation of the ruins is mostly broken, less than one-tenth remains. However, we must still be cautious of any hidden restrictions or traps."


    "The inner and central areas of the ruins contain rtively intact fourth-rank formations, more powerful than ordinary third-rank ones, making them difficult to break by force. Besides formations and restrictions, there are also other unknown risks."


    "Years ago, Qi Immortal managed to breach a critical formation gate within the ruins, discovering ''Yin Yang Water'' and the ''Xuanmu Vine'', only to fall victim to a trap and die."


    ...


    "Fairy Shi, the path through this area is about six or seven li long. We''ve previously scouted and confirmed there are no dangers," said Hu Immortal, the shorter of the two, stroking his beard and squinting as he pointed to a gap in the formation on the outskirts of the ruins.


    "The gap in the formation here is quiterge. I also entered through this point decades ago. However, the formation within the ruins has some degree of self-repair," Fairy Shi responded as the two Immortals began discussing the formation''s restrictions at a distance.


    From the look of things, Tan Immortal and Hu Immortal had no immediate ns to attack. After all, Shi Manrong and Lan Chang''an were valuable assets in helping to conquer and explore the ancient ruins.


    If they were to force a confrontation now, and Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong decided to fight to the death, the loss would outweigh the gain.


    Once inside the ruins, it would be difficult to leave easily.


    At that point, should they stumble upon a great opportunity, wouldn''t it alle down to who had the stronger fist?


    They could always settle things after extracting every bit of their usefulness.


    "Two Fake Dan Immortals, including a third-rank formation master, along with three Foundation Establishment experts exploring the ancient ruins¡ªthis increases both the odds of sess and the margin for error."


    "Where else would you find such a team?" Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    Tan Immortal led the way, following a previously explored path toward the central area of the ancient ruins.


    Along the way, Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi asionally paused to examine nearby ancient buildings, gardens, and ruins, which caused the two Immortals to grow impatient.


    "This area has been scouted for months. There''s nothing of value here, no need to waste time," Tan Immortal said bluntly.


    Lan Chang''an understood this reasoning. This particr route had already been explored twice in the past few decades.


    Shi Manrong and Qi Immortal had explored it once, and this was now the second time.


    If there had been any treasures, the Immortals would have imed them long ago.


    However, for the sake of caution, Lan Chang''an wanted to familiarize himself with the surrounding geography and rule out potential threats, especially trapsid by Hu Immortal, the third-rank formation master.


    A formation set by a third-rank master could pose a significant threat even to a True Dan cultivator.


    After scouting several li, Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi found nothing unusual.


    Most of the restrictions and remnant formations along the path had already been breached. The few that could not be broken were simply bypassed.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, about the size of a small dog, emerged from Lan Chang''an''s spirit pet pouch. Following its master''s orders, it scurried off to investigate the corners of the ruins.


    "What is thisdy''s name?" Lan Chang''an''s gaze shifted to the cold and aloof woman with long hair standing behind Tan Immortal.


    This woman cultivated demonic techniques and was the only one among the three Foundation Establishment cultivators who hadn''t been subjected to a restriction.


    Tan Immortal, though domineering, treated her with rtive courtesy.


    Lan Chang''an had noticed that ever since the woman had learned of his identity, she had subtly paid attention to him. However, she was careful not to stare directly, as if both wary and curious.


    "You may call me Miss Wei, Fellow Daoist Lan," the long-haired woman smiled slightly, bowing gracefully.


    Tan Immortal cast a strange nce at Miss Wei. Her demure and courteous demeanor was out of character for her usual behavior. Could it be that she was interested in that pretty boy?


    Given Lan Chang''an''s handsome appearance and the strength he''d shown earlier in the face of danger, it was no wonder he had a certain charm.


    As they progressed along the explored path, about two-thirds of the way through, Lan Chang''an suddenly halted.


    Squeak squeak!


    At the base of a thick half-copsed ancient wall, the Earth Burrowing Rat scratched its paws, looking puzzled.

 Chapter 207: The Formation Gate of the Palace Pavilion

    The actions of the Earth Burrowing Rat caught the attention of the gathered cultivators. However, the two Fake Dan Immortals paid it little heed.


    Every corner of this path had been thoroughly investigated by them multiple times, yielding little of value, with few omissions.


    Scritch~


    The Earth Burrowing Rat lifted its paw and lightly scratched the half-crumbled wall, producing a sound that sent shivers down the spine.


    A faint crack appeared on the ancient wall.


    The hardness of the wall surpassed that of ordinary magical weapons.


    Upon seeing this, Tan Immortal''s eyes gleamed with a hint of mockery.


    ¡°The materials used in the ancient structures of this ruin are rtively hard, but they aren''t high-grade. They''re simply low-grade ores that were refined andpressed through spells,¡± Hu Immortal exined, slightly annoyed.¡°Hmm.¡±


    Lan Chang''an had already discerned as much.


    The materials of the buildings here, including the floor, were just purely tough butcked the spiritual essence needed for refining weapons or secondary use.


    ¡°I trust the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s sense of smell,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile as he walked to the half-crumbled wall.


    In reality, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s actions were guided by Lan Chang''an¡¯s subtlemands.


    Lan Chang''an retrieved a pickaxe-shaped magical weapon, infused it with mana, and began striking at the wall.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, seeing this, also raised its paw and started pounding on the wall.


    Bang bang!


    A rhythmic knocking and patting echoed as the wall slowly began to crumble and crack.


    The expressions of the five cultivators varied from strange to disdainful.


    Until¡­


    At a certain point, Lan Chang''an¡¯s pickaxe struck a spot on the wall that caused his hand to go numb from the recoil.


    The same happened to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Both man and beast avoided that small section of the wall.


    "Huh?"


    Hu Immortal''s expression shifted, and he sent his spiritual sense to carefully probe the area. Finally, he discovered something unusual.


    Upon closer inspection, he determined that this particr section of the wall was far tougher, impervious even to the attacks of ate-second-rank demonic beast.


    Additionally, this section of the wall seemed to partially block spiritual sense, making it easy to overlook.


    Lan Chang''an and the Earth Burrowing Rat quickened their pace, stripping away the surrounding wall.


    Soon, a grayish-white stone b, about the size of a washbasin, fell into Lan Chang''an¡¯s hands.


    Part of the gray-white stone revealed a faint dark metallic sheen.


    ¡°What kind of material is this? It even blocked my spiritual sense?¡± Tan Immortal narrowed his eyes, staring at the stone in Lan Chang''an¡¯s hand.


    ¡°This is Shadowstone! It can obscure spiritual energy and block spiritual sense¡ªan excellent material for crafting stealth and shadow-rted magic treasures.¡±


    The long-haired Lady Wei scanned the stone with her spiritual sense and eximed in surprise, her eyes gleaming.


    "Shadowstone?"


    ¡°At the very least, this stone is third-rank. Considering how it repeatedly concealed itself from us, it¡¯s likely a superior-grade third-rank material, suitable for crafting mid-grade magical treasures.¡±


    Tan Immortal and Hu Immortal exchanged nces, their eyes shing with desire.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, we¡¯re not entirely sure whether this is truly Shadowstone. Let me examine it,¡± Tan Immortal said, raising his hand.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for verification. It¡¯s definitely Shadowstone. Lady Wei¡¯s keen insight speaks for itself,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a smile.


    ¡°Bring it to this Immortal for a look,¡± Tan Immortal demanded, his face darkening.


    ¡°Haha! It seems that this stone was destined to find its way to me,¡± Lan Chang''an said as he stored the Shadowstone, ignoring the oppressive Fake Dan spiritual pressure emanating from Tan Immortal.


    Hu Immortal held Tan Immortal''s arm, giving him a meaningful look.


    ¡°Don''t act rashly. While Shadowstone is rare, it doesn¡¯t hold the same appeal for us Fake Dan cultivators as it does for a True Dan cultivator.¡±


    Hearing this transmitted through spiritual sound, Tan Immortal suppressed his dissatisfaction.


    Fake Dan cultivators could barely utilize the lowest-ranked magical treasures, and even then, they couldn¡¯t wield them to their full potential.


    In the world of cultivation, magical treasures, like magical weapons, weremonly categorized into low, mid, superior, and top grades.


    They were primarily used by Core Formation cultivators and most Nascent Soul stage cultivators.


    Low-grade magical treasures were most often used by early-stage Core Formation and Fake Dan cultivators.


    Mid-grade magical treasures were generally wielded by mid- tote-stage Core Formation cultivators.


    Therefore, this superior-grade third-rank Shadowstone, though valuable and rare, was more useful for trading with a True Dan cultivator than for their own personal use.


    ¡°Well, let him hold onto it for now.¡±


    Tan Immortal quickly came to terms with the situation.


    For the two Fake Dan cultivators, their greatest hope within the ancient ruins was to find an opportunity to break through from the Fake Dan stage. Such opportunities were exceedingly rare in the current cultivation world and often required the assistance of a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    However, in the ancient world of cultivation, opportunities for Fake Dan cultivators to advance were rtively easier to obtain than today.


    ...


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, it¡¯s your fortune to have found this Shadowstone. I won¡¯t pursue it further. But any treasures we find while working together to break the formations will be divided based on cultivation level and contribution.¡±


    Hu Immortal stepped forward, reminding Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Thank you, Hu Immortal, for your magnanimity.¡±


    Lan Chang''an cupped his hands respectfully.


    He had been prepared for Tan Immortal to forcefully seize the Shadowstone.


    If that had happened, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have minded handing it over temporarily.


    After all, the Shadowstone wouldn¡¯t be of much use to him until he reached the Core Formation Realm.


    That said, he did have a personal interest in crafting stealth-rted magic weapons, such as the Invisible Needle or Shadow Split Sword, both of which were suitable for his style.


    In his previous life, when Lan Chang''an reachedte-stage Core Formation, he had spent a considerable sum to acquire a piece of Shadowstone. Although it was also superior-grade third-rank, it was smaller than this one.


    Because he had worked with Shadowstone before, he was familiar with its properties. That¡¯s why, upon scanning the wall with his spiritual sense earlier, he had sensed something off.


    ording to the records of the cultivation world, the highest-rank Shadowstone could reach fifth rank and was known as Shadowstone Essence, a material rumored to be used in crafting legendary spiritual treasures.


    ...


    "Go search the area."


    After witnessing Lan Chang''an''s discovery, Tan Immortal and Hu Immortal ordered the other three Foundation Establishment cultivators to scour the nearby ruins.


    ¡°This section of the ancient buildings was once home to a cksmithing workshop.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps the Shadowstone Lan Chang''an found was hidden away by a cksmith working here.¡±


    The two Immortals were full of theories.


    But in the end, nothing significant was found¡ªjust a few scraps of metal in the underground ruins, worthless leftovers from past refining efforts.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, could it be that your Earth Burrowing Rat has some bloodline from a Treasure-Seeking Rat?¡± Hu Immortal smiled as he examined the Earth Burrowing Rat, his eyes betraying a hint of envy.


    The Shadowstone had been so well hidden that it had escaped the spiritual senses of even Immortals, yet the Earth Burrowing Rat had managed to locate it.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat shivered and scurried off into a corner of the ruins, ignoring Hu Immortal.


    ¡°Perhaps it was just luck,¡± Lan Chang''an said casually.


    In truth, the Earth Burrowing Rat had only acted on hismands. Without those instructions, it would have been impossible for the creature to find the Shadowstone.


    If Lan Chang''an had discovered the stone on his own, it would have aroused suspicion from the two Immortals, leading them to be more cautious and distrustful of him.


    ...


    For the remainder of their exploration, Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi continued their slow, methodical inspection.


    Tan Immortal and Hu Immortal, surprisingly, no longer rushed them.


    Every time the Earth Burrowing Rat extended its paw to examine something, it drew the attention of the entire group.


    But the rest of the journey revealed nothing of significance.


    Atst, the group reached the end of the previously explored path.


    They came to a stop in front of a bridge.


    On the far side of the bridge, there were faint ripples of formation light and hidden restrictions.


    The ruins beyond were shrouded in mist, appearing like a mirage.


    Lan Chang''an could feel a faint sense of danger emanating from the area.


    ¡°Fairy Shi, did you encounter this bridge during yourst exploration?¡± Hu Immortal asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s strange! I didn¡¯t cross this bridgest time. I found a garden instead, where we noticed an obvious w in the formation. It took us a long time, but we managed to pass through.¡±


    Fairy Shi studied the bridge with some confusion.


    ¡°That¡¯s normal. Formations above the fourth rank often defy logic and can easily manipte the surroundingndscape. Some legendary formations can even distort space itself.¡±


    Hu Immortal nodded thoughtfully.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, send one of your puppets to explore that area,¡± Hu Immortal instructed.


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    Lan Chang''an had prepared some expendable puppets specifically for testing the formations in these ruins.


    Given his past life¡¯s experience, Lan Chang''an knew that using puppets to probe formations wasn¡¯t foolproof.


    Certain formations and restrictions wouldn¡¯t be triggered by puppets, but if a cultivator stepped into it, they would die.


    Boom!


    An orange me of unknown origin ignited on the puppet, quickly spreading and consuming it.


    The puppet, as tough as a second-rank demonic beast, was reduced to ash in an instant.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, send another puppet.¡±


    Lan Chang''anplied.


    And thus began the long, tedious process of breaking through the formation.


    The ancient formations within the ruins would retaliate if brute force was used, potentially causing a bacsh and creating unpredictable oues.


    Even the Fake Dan Immortals couldn¡¯t afford to risk such dangers.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that only ate-stage Core Formation expert would have a chance at forcibly breaking the formations.


    It would only be safer if it was a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Crack!


    The second puppet was sliced to pieces by a few arcs of light that appeared out of nowhere.


    ¡°Lan, since you''re a puppet master, you can sense the state of your puppets. Try to ry any useful information as they explore further.¡±


    Hu Immortal instructed.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Lan Chang''an had lost more than twenty expendable puppets.


    The group had managed to cross about half of the bridge.


    In the most recent attempts, the puppets had almost reached the end of the bridge.


    ¡°Fairy Shi, your strategy this time was brilliant! Breaking formations isn¡¯t always about direct confrontation. Often, you need to be clever, perhaps even retreat to advance, to deceive the formation¡¯s detection.¡±


    Hu Immortal stroked his beard with satisfaction, his face glowing with contentment.


    With Fairy Shi¡¯s help, his progress in breaking through the formations had significantly elerated.


    Of course, this was only possible because Fairy Shi¡¯s formation mastery was nearly on par with Hu Immortal¡¯s, allowing their coboration to produce greater results.


    At the same time, Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppet mastery had provided valuable assistance in their efforts to break the formations.


    Tan Immortal nodded secretly in approval. The addition of Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi had indeed been helpful.


    The remaining half of the bridge took only another month to break through.


    Buzz!


    At the end of the bridge, a white light fissure, about a meter long, appeared.


    This was the result of three months of effort.


    Fairy Shi felt a mix of joy and anxiety. She couldn¡¯t deny that this time, they had progressed far more than she and Qi Immortal had decades ago.


    Back then, Qi Immortal had spent years trying to break the formations, only to reach the core of the ruins by the time of his death.


    Lan Chang''an controlled a humanoid puppet, sending it through the white light fissure to the other side of the bridge. The puppet walked a dozen steps, encountering no issues.


    The puppet served only as a preliminary test.


    ¡°You, go in and scout the way!¡±


    Tan Immortal¡¯s tone turned cold as he pointed to the graying old man in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage.


    The old man gave a bitter smile and was the first to step forward, passing through the fissure and into the ancient formation¡¯s interior.


    Nothing untoward happened.


    The remaining six cultivators followed suit, passing through the fissure to the other side of the bridge.


    Tan Immortal, the strongest among them, took the rear.


    Once everyone had crossed, the white light fissure began to close, soon shrinking to a point where it could no longer amodate an adult human.


    Since they had only exploited a w in the formation, the core of the formation had not been destroyed.


    Now, the previously fog-shrouded ruins came into clear view.


    The ancient buildings before them were majestic and towering, with exquisitely detailed carvings, and had been rtively well-preserved.


    From the architecture, most of the structures appeared to be residential mansions, along withmercial and administrative buildings.


    Near the center stood a six-sided pce pavilion. Hovering above it were two rings of light, at the center of which was a blue crystal sphere, radiating a powerful spiritual glow.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan,¡± Fairy Shi whispered, ncing meaningfully at him.


    Lan Chang''an immediately understood. That location was likely where Qi Immortal had fallen into the formation¡¯s trap and met his end.


    ¡°That six-sided pce pavilion is the eye of the formation within the ruins. Judging from its architectural style, it likely dates back to the original ancient civilization that built these ruins. Later, it was modified by a more recent Nascent Soul sect to serve as a sanctuary.¡±


    Hu Immortal''s sharp gaze quickly identified the pce pavilion as the key to the ruins.


    He had a guess in his heart, based on theyout of the formation and the buildings, the pavilion seemed like a prime candidate for a treasury or storage vault.


    ...


    On their way to the pavilion, they passed through several ancient buildings, all of which were empty.


    Of course, it wasn¡¯t a total loss.


    In certain rooms and corners, they found misceneous items that had been abandoned long ago. Most were so weathered by time that they held little value.


    Lady Wei picked up a set of chess pieces in a courtyard. After cleaning off the dust, she found them to bepletely intact.


    The chessboard didn¡¯t seem to be a magical treasure but rather some kind of strange artifact.


    Lan Chang''an, meanwhile, noticed something unusual on the top floor of a pavilion.


    One of the rooms was still protected by a restriction that had yet to degrade, sustained by the remnants of the ancient formation.


    Boom! Boom!


    Lan Chang''an sent two puppets to probe the area. Before they could even touch the door, they were shredded into dust by an invisible force.


    ¡°Don¡¯t waste your time. You can¡¯t break that restriction,¡± Tan Immortal said sternly.


    The two Immortals were more interested in the six-sided pce pavilion, guessing that it, being the core of the formation, held the most valuable opportunities.


    The surrounding buildings were likely to contain only remnants of minor value, not worth the risk or effort.


    Lan Chang''an agreed, for the time being, deciding to leave the area.


    In fact, he had several high-quality Restriction-Breaking Talismans, including some treasure talismans.


    These were among the reasons he felt confident enough to explore the ancient ruins.


    Before long, the group of seven arrived at the foot of the six-sided pce pavilion, which stood over twenty to thirty zhang tall.


    The surface of the pavilion glimmered with obvious formation ripples, exuding a powerful spiritual pressure that made even the two Immortals hesitate to approach.


    ¡°Six gates? The formation here seems to have six entrances? Could they each lead to a different path?¡±


    From a distance of nearly ten zhang, Hu Immortal observed the pavilion closely, his gaze fixed on the bronze doors.


    Above the six bronze doors were formation gates, visible only to those with formation expertise.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan.¡±


    Hu Immortal nced behind him.


    He frowned slightly, realizing that Lan Chang''an was actually standing behind the crowd?


    If not for the fact that the formation fissure had already sealed after the bridge had been crossed, leaving no retreat, the two Immortals would not have allowed such behavior.


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    Lan Chang''an summoned another expendable puppet, this one the size of a small child, and sent it forward to the bronze door indicated by Hu Immortal.


    The puppet touched the door.


    In an instant!


    A bolt of blue lightning shot out, leaving a charred patch of remains where the puppet had stood.


    The two Immortals felt a chill in their hearts.


    Even though the ancient formation had only retained a fraction of its original power, a single strike could still kill a True Core cultivator outright.


    Lan Chang''an exchanged a puzzled nce with Fairy Shi.


    How had Qi Immortal managed to temporarily open a formation gate back then?


    Although Qi Immortal was also a formation master, his skills were far below those of Hu Immortal.


    Fairy Shi shook her head slightly, equally mystified.


    ...


    ¡°This gate is the one.¡±


    After much discussion with Fairy Shi, Hu Immortal selected one of the gates, where the formation¡¯s power had weakened the most.


    The gate was located just above one of the bronze doors.


    Time passed slowly.


    asionally, Lan Chang''an would manipte a puppet to assist in probing the formation, while still finding time to cultivate daily.


    Another month slipped by.


    By this time, Lan Chang''an had exhausted his supply of expendable puppets.


    The other cultivators had also damaged several of their backup magical weapons.


    Through various methods of breaking the formation, the w in the formation gate expanded, and the formation¡¯s power continued to weaken.


    ¡°It¡¯s too slow! The other five formation gates are linked to this one, supplying it with power for recovery.¡±


    Hu Immortal was dissatisfied.


    With the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom embroiled in war, the longer it took to break through the ruins, the greater the potential for unforeseenplications.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, you¡¯re a well-known talisman master in the Liang Kingdom. Do you have any high-quality Restriction-Breaking Talismans?¡±


    Hu Immortal asked, his tone softening as he turned to negotiate with Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Restriction-breaking talismans are incredibly difficult to craft and extremely rare. I only have a few second-rank mid- to superior-grade ones, and some purchased from the Immortal City.¡±


    Lan Chang''an responded, sounding troubled.


    ¡°Very well, everyone, use whatever restriction-breaking talismans you have. Follow my timing tounch a coordinated attack.¡±


    Hu Immortal quickly organized the group, ensuring that each person had something capable of breaking the formation.


    Hu Immortal himself had a restriction-breaking orb, a superior tool for the task, more effective than talismans of the same grade.


    Tan Immortal had a quasi-third-rank restriction-breaking talisman.


    The other cultivators had at least second-rank superior-grade restriction-breaking talismans.


    Boom! Boom!


    The distorted beams of light from their restriction-breaking tools struck the formation gate one after another, growing stronger with each sessive hit.


    Above the bronze door,yers of white shadows rippled and trembled until, atst, they copsed with a loud crack.


    ¡°It¡¯s open!¡±


    A powerful gust of wind surged forth, throwing the Foundation Establishment cultivators off bnce.


    The two Immortals stabilized themselves and looked ahead.


    The bronze door, which was as stable as a mountain, had loosened, revealing a narrow gap that emitted a soft, pearl-like glow.


    ...

 Chapter 208: The Treasury Space

    At that moment, everyone held their breath, eyes fixed on the slight crack that had appeared in the bronze door. Standing at the back of the group, Lan Chang''an faintly caught a whiff of a musty herbal scent.


    ¡°Could it be a storage room for medicinal herbs and pills?¡±


    Hu Immortal''s beard twitched slightly, his eyes gleaming with excitement.


    It seemed likely that the six doors of this pavilion each led to different types of treasure vaults.


    If the first vault they unlocked happened to be a medicinal vault, their luck was quite good.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, please send one of your puppets in first,¡± Hu Immortal said after a brief exchange with Tan Immortal. Both suppressed their inner excitement and urgency.


    In such critical moments, they knew better than to act recklessly.


    ¡°My scouting puppets have all been used up. The puppets I use from here on are more valuable, so about the potential losses¡­¡±Lan Chang''an hesitated deliberately.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry! Any puppets lost in this exploration will be fullypensated by Tan Immortal and me. Moreover, if we do find a medicinal vault, you¡¯ll be allowed to pick an extra item aspensation,¡± Hu Immortal promised generously.


    ¡°I hope the Immortals will honor their word,¡± Lan Chang''an nodded, then retrieved ate second-rank heavy-armored puppet and directed it toward the bronze door.


    The puppet pushed open the door with great effort and stepped inside.


    Its figure was quickly swallowed by the bright light inside, like that of a luminous pearl.


    Due to the pavilion¡¯s unique materials and its formation, the area was shielded from spiritual sense.


    Even the Immortals couldn¡¯t probe inside.


    ¡°It is indeed a medicinal vault,¡± Lan Chang''an confirmed. As a puppet master, he could receive basic feedback from his puppets, confirming some general details.


    Not long after, the heavy-armored puppet returned, holding an empty medicine basket.


    ¡°Not bad.¡±


    Tan Immortal¡¯s eyes lit up, and in the blink of an eye, his body turned into a streak of light, darting into the vault.


    ¡°Tan Immortal!¡± Hu Immortal¡¯s expression changed. He had nned to send a Foundation Establishment cultivator to scout the area first, but Tan Immortal had rushed in without warning.


    Tan Immortal was the strongest of them all. If he got his hands on the most important opportunities first, the rest would be at a disadvantage.


    However, Tan Immortal did not trigger any traps upon entering.


    Seeing this, Hu Immortal hurried into the medicinal vault as well, followed closely by Lady Wei.


    The high-nosed, peak Foundation Establishment youth, and the elderly mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, remained outside, keeping a close eye on Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi.


    Since entering the ruins, the two Immortals had not allowed Lan Chang''an or Fairy Shi to act alone.


    After all, there were still unexplored dangers within the ruins. If the two acted independently, they might cause uncontrobleplications.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, aren¡¯t you going to check it out?¡± Fairy Shi seemed tempted, noticing that Lan Chang''an remained motionless, standing idly by with azy expression.


    ¡°No rush. It won¡¯t do any good to hurry,¡± Lan Chang''an chuckled.


    Fairy Shi thought for a moment. If one didn¡¯t have enough strength, even if they were the first to seize rare pills or herbs, they might not be able to hold onto them.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, the formation gate that opened this time ispletely different from the one that Qi Immortal broke through all those years ago,¡± Fairy Shi transmitted her thoughts to him while the two Immortals were still searching the vault.


    ¡°Oh? You mean the gate Qi Immortal opened back then wasn¡¯t one of these six?¡±


    ¡°Correct. Qi Immortal had discovered this ruin long before I did. He had explored it for some time and may have known key information that we don¡¯t,¡± she nodded.


    The two of them exchanged these thoughts only briefly.


    Lan Chang''an stayed outside on guard, sending the Earth Burrowing Rat to apany Fairy Shi into the vault.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s keen sense of smell,bined with its bond with Lan Chang''an, allowed him to receive some information about the interior of the vault.


    The vault''s interior was muchrger than it appeared from the outside.


    It was divided into several sections, with hundreds of medicine cabs stacked floor to ceiling, stretching dozens of zhang high.


    However, over 90% of the cabs werepletely empty.


    The two Immortals and Lady Wei found a few herbs and jars containing pills and potions.


    But most of the herbs had long since withered or rotted.


    Only a few herbs and pills, preserved by ancient restrictions, had survived rtively well, but their medicinal potency had significantly diminished.


    ¡°A Foundation Establishment Pill? Too bad its potency has mostly faded,¡± Lady Wei sighed, shaking her head as she held a jade bottle containing dimly colored pills.


    Most of the pills in the vault were second-rank.


    asionally, they found some third-rank herbs and pills.


    This was more or less what Lan Chang''an had expected.


    This ancient ruin, which served either as a sanctuary or a backup vault, had likely been abandoned long ago, lost to the annals of time.


    Before its abandonment, the most valuable and portable treasures were probably taken by its original owners.


    Even if there were still treasures hidden, they would likely be in more secretive locations, not out in the open in a vault that could be breached by a third-rank formation master like Hu Immortal.


    ...


    After half a day of exploration, the disappointment on the two Immortals¡¯ faces grew more apparent.


    It wasn¡¯t that they hadn¡¯t gained anything.


    The herbs and pills they found, despite their lost potency, were still valuable. Selling them could easily tens of thousands of spirit stones.


    But for a vault of this size, they had barely explored half of it.


    However, this haul fell far short of the expectations of the two Immortals.


    What they sought was an opportunity to help them advance from the Fake Dan stage.


    In the world of cultivation, certain rare heavenly treasures or specially refined pills could help Fake Dan cultivators fully form their Cores.


    Such treasures were incredibly rare in the current cultivation world, but they were somewhat easier to obtain in ancient times.


    Given the current situation, it seemed unlikely that such valuable items existed in this abandoned medicinal vault.


    ¡°Thieving rat! Leave that demon core behind!¡±


    Suddenly, a thunderous shout echoed from inside the vault.


    Squeak squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat bolted out of the vault in a panic, clutching a dark purple, egg-sized orb in its mouth, roughly the size of a human fist.


    ¡°A third-rank demon core?¡±


    Lan Chang''an''s spiritual sense swept over it, immediately recognizing the object.


    The demon core was covered in dust, making it difficult to discern its exact origin and quality for now.


    Demonic beast cores were often used as materials in alchemy, so it wasn¡¯t unusual to find one in a medicinal vault within ancient ruins.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, have your spirit pet hand over the third-rank demon core,¡± Tan Immortal said sternly as he stepped out of the vault.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, trembling in fear, handed the core to Lan Chang''an before hiding behind him.


    Lan Chang''an inspected the core, determining it belonged to a mid-tote third-rank demonic beast.


    Unfortunately, its demonic energy had significantly weakened, and it wasn¡¯t an earth-attribute core.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, that¡¯s not something you should keep.¡±


    Hu Immortal emerged from the vault, his face sullen, his tone displeased, likely frustrated by their overallck of sess.


    ¡°If I recall correctly, Hu Immortal, you promised topensate me for any puppets I lost during this exploration, and you also said I could pick an extra item once inside the medicinal vault,¡± Lan Chang''an said calmly, holding the demon core.


    Hu Immortal paused for a moment, then exined, ¡°That¡¯s a different matter! Once we¡¯ve fully explored the ruins, we¡¯ll settle everything together.¡±


    ¡°And why can¡¯t I pick this as my item?¡±


    Hu Immortal chuckled, ¡°A third-rank demon core is certainly more valuable than just one item.¡±


    ¡°How about this: you and Tan Immortal can both have a share of the core. I¡¯ll hold onto it for now,¡± he suggested.


    ¡°That works.¡±


    After some thought, Lan Chang''an tossed the core to Hu Immortal.


    The two Immortals were in a foul mood. If Lan Chang''an insisted on pushing the issue, it could lead to a premature conflict, which wouldn¡¯t benefit his ns.


    Hu Immortal caught the demon core, his expression brightening as he scanned it with his spiritual sense.


    A high-quality demon core was a strategic resource in the cultivation world. It could be traded with Core Formation cultivators or sects for rare treasures needed to solidify one¡¯s Core.


    Squeak squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat nudged Lan Chang''an''s clothes, looking a bit aggrieved.


    Lan Chang''an patted its head, giving it aforting look.


    In truth, the demon core¡¯s attribute wasn¡¯t a perfect match for the Earth Burrowing Rat, so its benefit would¡¯ve been limited.


    The rat was just upset that its prize had been taken.


    ¡°Little Friend Lan, you may return to the vault and choose another item,¡± Hu Immortal said generously after putting away the demon core.


    Lan Chang''an epted the offer and returned to the vault with the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    At this point, only about two-thirds of the vault had been explored.


    Thanks to his spiritual sense, experience, and the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s keen nose, Lan Chang''an had an advantage in finding valuable items that others might overlook.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an found a ck medicine jar on the top shelf of the vault. After a brief inspection, he quietly stored it in his storage pouch.


    The two Immortals noticed but didn¡¯t think much of it.


    To them, the potency of any pills or medicines in the vault had long since deteriorated.


    Even if Lan Chang''an had found a rare third-rank treasure, its value would not be much.


    ...


    By the end of the day, the vault had been fully explored.


    Though it didn¡¯t meet their initial expectations, the value of their findings was considerable enough to ease the moods of the two Immortals.


    Lan Chang''an exchanged a meaningful nce with Fairy Shi.


    Fairy Shi understood and took the initiative to discuss the next steps of breaking the formations with Hu Immortal.


    ¡°You''re suggesting that there may be a hidden formation gate at the top of the pavilion?¡±


    Hu Immortal looked up at the six-sided pavilion, where two rings of light hovered above, centered around a blue crystal orb radiating powerful spiritual energy.


    ¡°My guess is that the six formation gates we''ve seen so far, while impressive, only protect ordinary vaults. The real treasury is likely hidden elsewhere,¡± Fairy Shi exined logically.


    ¡°Six gates, linked together, yet no hidden gate has been found¡­¡± Hu Immortal frowned in thought.


    ¡°Huh! The center of the six gates should be where the core of the formation lies. The core must be well-concealed, shielded by the six gates. If there is a hidden gate, it would be¡­¡±


    A sudden sh of insight crossed Hu Immortal¡¯s mind. After a brief discussion with Fairy Shi, they reached a tentative conclusion.


    Fairy Shi¡¯s eyes gleamed with understanding.


    ¡°Everyone, step back,¡± Hu Immortal and Tan Immortal exchanged a few words before instructing the five Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an exchanged a nce with Fairy Shi, then retreated a dozen zhang along with the others.


    Up ahead, Hu Immortal retrieved an ancient, rusted bronze token from his storage pouch.


    ¡°Half a year ago, I found this under a corpse within the ruins. I never figured out its use¡ªit''s beenpletely unresponsive,¡± Hu Immortal murmured to himself, his expression solemn.


    Holding the token in his hand, he nced back at the Foundation Establishment cultivators, his face showing hesitation.


    ¡°If your guess is correct, this chance may onlye once. We shouldn¡¯t let others test it first,¡± Tan Immortal said through a spiritual transmission.


    ¡°If you''re unwilling to take the risk, I can give it a try,¡± he offered boldly.


    ¡°You¡¯re no formation master, Tan. Leave this to me.¡±


    Hu Immortal sighed, finally making up his mind.


    Tan Immortal smiled, making no further attempts topete. He knew that such risks carried inherent dangers.


    For Fake Dan cultivators, their path ahead was uncertain. If there was even a small chance of advancing further, many would willingly take the risk.


    Hu Immortal held the bronze token, slipping it into his sleeve and secretly channeling his core energy into it.


    The token remained unresponsive.


    But Hu Immortal¡¯s face suddenly brightened with excitement.


    Through the token, he sensed the presence of a hidden seventh formation gate located at the center of the six-sided pavilion.


    ¡°One of the six outer gates has already been broken, making this the perfect entry point,¡± he thought.


    After a long moment, Hu Immortal opened his eyes, a sharp glint shing within.


    Before Tan Immortal could ask, he stepped forward, summoning his restriction-breaking orb and sending it toward the already-broken gate above the bronze door.


    The restriction-breaking orb transformed into a twisting beam of ck and white light, weaving through the ws in the formation. Waves of blue and red mes rippled from the impact.


    Boom!


    A massive hole was torn open in the formation above the pavilion.


    Beyond the hole, a strange scene flickered like a mirage, casting a shadow in Hu Immortal¡¯s eyes.


    The chaotic light of the formation obscured the view, making it impossible for the cultivators behind him to see clearly.


    ¡°Could this be a small, artificially created space, serving as a hidden treasury within the ancient ruins?¡±


    Lan Chang''an peered at the hole from a distance, unable to make out the details within. Still, he sensed traces of spatial ovep.


    The atmosphere reminded him of when the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm had opened, though this was far weaker.


    ¡°Hu Immortal is truly a skilled third-rank formation master. His precision is leagues beyond that of Qi Immortal from years ago. He hit the mark with a single strike.¡±


    Fairy Shi silently admired Hu Immortal¡¯s expertise,mitting the details to memory.


    ...


    ¡°Yin Yang Water¡­ Superior Crystal Condensation Pills¡­¡±


    Hu Immortal¡¯s voice trembled with excitement as his face flickered in the shattered formation light, alternating between light and shadow.


    Ovee with joy, he activated his protective barrier and, holding the bronze token, flew toward the gaping hole in the formation.


    The token glowed faintly red.


    The formation around Hu Immortal coalesced into a web of intertwined blue and white strands, forming a vortex that began to envelop him.


    ¡°Hu Immortal, watch out!¡±


    Tan Immortal¡¯s eyes widened as he immediately swung the golden rope weapon he had prepared.


    Whoosh!


    The golden rope shot forward like a serpent, coiling around Hu Immortal¡¯s waist and yanking him back.


    In a sh, Hu Immortal''s small figure was pulled out of the vortex.


    But Tan Immortal¡¯s heart sank when he looked closely.


    The golden rope, a supreme-grade magical weapon, had snapped into pieces.


    And the Hu Immortal he had pulled back was nothing more than a charred corpse.


    ¡°Luckily, I reacted quickly. If I had been swallowed by that formation trap, there would¡¯ve been no escape,¡± a hoarse voice said, filled with lingering fear.


    Whoosh!


    The charred corpse transformed into a ckened straw dummy, crumbling into dust.


    The real Hu Immortal stood beneath the remains, his face pale.


    ¡°A life-saving substitute?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes gleamed with interest. He had only seen such miraculous items twice in his past life in the Great Kun.


    Of course, such life-saving tools often had limitations.


    If not for Tan Immortal¡¯s timely intervention, Hu Immortal might not have survived even with the dummy.


    ¡°Hu Immortal, what was that scene just now? Is there truly Yin Yang Water and superior Crystal Condensation Pills in there?¡±


    Tan Immortal, his breath quickened, couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°The hole I opened in the formation leads to an independent space. Inside, I saw the view of an ancient garden, with several stone tforms covered by light shields.¡±


    ¡°Light-shielded tforms?¡±


    The gathered cultivators were instantly captivated.


    ¡°Each stone tform had a treasure floating above it, with its name and usage inscribed¡­¡±


    Hu Immortal¡¯s voice trailed off as Tan Immortal cast a sound-blocking spell, cutting off the rest of the conversation.


    ¡°Hu Immortal, judging by your earlier reaction, I suspect you were influenced by illusions,¡± Tan Immortal said bluntly.


    ¡°Illusions? If it were an illusion, I would have noticed after clearing my mind. But what I saw was perfectly real, with no ws,¡± Hu Immortal insisted, shaking his head after swallowing a pill.


    ¡°Immortals.¡±


    Outside the sound barrier, Lan Chang''an approached.


    ¡°What is it?¡± The two Immortals frowned, their conversation interrupted.


    Lan Chang''an noticed their increasingly cold attitudes.


    At this point in the exploration, he and Fairy Shi had almost exhausted their usefulness.


    ¡°Hu Immortal, just a friendly reminder: that token you used to sense the hidden formation gate¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an lowered his voice.


    Though he spoke softly, the others could still hear him.


    ¡°The token? Oh no!¡±


    Hu Immortal¡¯s face paled as he instinctively checked his body, only to find the token missing.


    ¡°The token is gone?¡±


    Everyone¡¯s gaze turned toward the hole in the pavilion¡¯s formation.


    ¡°Hu Immortal, you should rest. I¡¯ll help you look for it,¡± Tan Immortal offered kindly.


    Without waiting for a reply, he strode toward the formation gate.


    Hu Immortal couldn¡¯t sit still.


    Ignoring his injuries, he hurried after Tan Immortal.


    It was then that he sensed a faint ripple of spiritual energy. A chill ran down his spine.


    Shh¡ª


    An invisible needle, carrying the sharpness of a near-magical treasure, pierced through Hu Immortal¡¯s back and out his chest.


    ¡°Ugh¡­¡±


    Hu Immortal¡¯s body stiffened. He struggled to turn around, unbelief written all over his face.


    ...

 Chapter 209: The True Monarch’s Relic

    Hu Immortal''s eyes were bloodshot with rage as he stared at the young man a few zhang behind him, whose expression remained calm.


    Whoosh!


    A blood-stained invisible needle darted through the air, tracing a sharp arc before transforming into a needle-shaped talismanic treasure and returning to Lan Chang''an''s hand, hidden within his sleeve.


    "Despicable... treacherous..."


    Hu Immortal''s shocked face was sttered with the blood from his chest. His eyes were filled with hatred and unwillingness as he stared at his attacker from behind.


    Struggling to utter a few words, his chest suddenly exploded, blood clogging his throat as he continuously spat out blood.


    "Hu Immortal!"


    Several cries rang out, and the others finally reacted.With a heavy thud, Hu Immortal copsed to the ground. His vitality plummeted, and he became critically weak, teetering on the brink of death.


    Lan Chang''an nonchntly stored away the needle-shaped talisman.


    To kill Hu Immortal, he hadn¡¯t even used his strongest treasure talismans.


    The needle-shaped talismanic treasure had been a gift from Bai Ling Immortal when Fu Xuemei was breaking through to the Core Formation Realm. While it wasn''t much of a threat in directbat against a Fake Dan cultivator, it excelled in stealth attacks, being small and silent.


    Hu Immortal, having narrowly survived and stumbled upon a great opportunity, had just lost a crucial token. With his emotions in turmoil, his attention waspletely torn.


    This allowed Lan Chang''an tounch a sneak attack from behind, killing him with one strike.


    "Lan Chang''an! How dare you assassinate Hu Immortal?"


    Tan Immortal, who had reached the six-sided pavilion in front of them, turned back in shock. His expression quickly shifted to anger as he shouted.


    Tan Immortal wasn¡¯t as furious as one might expect, more so bewildered and surprised.


    "Hu Immortal broke his promise. Not only did he fail topensate me for the loss of my puppet, but he also stole the demon core my spirit pet obtained."


    Lan Chang''an spoke in a t tone, as though it was only natural:


    "So, I killed him."


    Hearing this, the other cultivators were stunned. It sounded reasonable, yet something felt off.


    There wasn¡¯t the slightest trace of anger in Lan Chang''an¡¯s voice as he made his exnation, making it seem a bit insincere.


    Pfft!


    Hu Immortal, who was lying on the ground, spat out a mouthful of blood and died, his eyes wide open in death.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat darted forward, snatching Hu Immortal''s storage pouch before quickly returning.


    Tan Immortal''s face darkened as murderous intent flickered in his eyes.


    Lan Chang''an, being the closest to Hu Immortal, naturally seized the opportunity to take the spoils of victory as the one who had nned the attack.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan,"


    Fairy Shi floated over to Lan Chang''an''s side, her eyes cautious as she watched Tan Immortal''s group of four.


    After the initial shock, Fairy Shi looked at the familiar man in front of her, unable to calm her turbulent thoughts.


    The low-profile cultivator who had quietly raised turtles and nted herbs for years had just killed a Fake Dan Immortal with one strike.


    Thispletely shattered her previous perception of him.


    ...


    Why did Lan Chang''an kill Hu Immortal?


    As the only remaining formation master on the scene, Fairy Shi quickly realized his intention.


    Now that the ancient ruins had been breached to this point, with each obstacle broken down one by one, Hu Immortal, as a third-rank formation master, had outlived his usefulness.


    There might still be some minor issues to deal with, such as returning to the entrance of the ruins, but as a formation master nearing the third rank herself, Fairy Shi¡¯s formation skills were not much weaker than Hu Immortal¡¯s. The difference mainlyy in their cultivation levels.


    With Hu Immortal dead, Fairy Shi''s position naturally rose. By teaming up with Lan Chang''an, they would hold more power.


    In fact, another reason Lan Chang''an killed Hu Immortal was his wariness of third-rank formation masters.


    A third-rank formation master could use the terrain to set up formations, which posed a greater threat and introduced more variables.


    With Hu Immortal dead, the only threat left was Tan Immortal, whose individual strength alone wasn''t as worrisome to Lan Chang''an.


    "Lan Chang''an, Hu Immortal was a close friend of mine. No matter what reason you had for killing him, I, Tan, cannot turn a blind eye."


    Tan Immortal, who still hadn''t found the key token, turned back, approaching Lan Chang''an step by step, his expression cold and full of malice.


    "What does Tan Immortal intend to do?"


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself, "You didn¡¯t seem so aggressive before I took Hu Immortal¡¯s storage pouch."


    "Insidious junior! I want you to thank me with your death!"


    Tan Immortal enunciated each word carefully, his body erupting with Core power, exuding a powerful pressure far beyond that of an ordinary Fake Dan cultivator.


    He opened his mouth and spat out a dark-colored ruler, which glowed with brilliant light.


    Boom!


    The ruler magical treasure expanded rapidly in the wind, growing to over ten zhang in length, gathering a vast amount of dark blue energy as it crashed down towards Lan Chang''an with the force of a copsing mountain.


    The faces of the surrounding cultivators changed dramatically. Tan Immortal was fighting for real now.


    It wasn''t just about Hu Immortal''s storage pouch.


    Lan Chang''an had killed a Fake Dan cultivator in an underhanded way. How could Tan Immortal tolerate such a threat lurking near him?


    As Tan Immortalunched his attack, Lan Chang''an moved as well. The Evergreen mana surged within him like a tidal wave as he summoned a magical treasure prototype.


    It was a simple, curved de with a flowing ck-gold sheen, emitting the faint spiritual energy characteristic of a magic treasure.


    With the infusion of his Evergreen power, the simple curved de vibrated with a sharp cry, its energy surging toward the sky as it transformed into a massive ck crescent-shaped de.


    ng! Boom!


    The golden-edged ck crescent shed head-on with the ruler magical treasure, sending shockwaves rippling through the surroundings.


    In less than a second, the ck de''s light dimmed rapidly, reverting to its simple curved form and falling to the ground.


    The blue spiritual light on the ruler magical treasure also dimmed significantly, shrinking in size.


    "Such power?"


    Tan Immortal was secretly shocked. He hadn''t expected Lan Chang''an''s magical treasure prototype to possess such strength,parable to the full force of a magic treasure wielded by a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Normally, Lan Chang''an¡¯s magical treasure prototype wouldn¡¯t have such power.


    However, the curved de had been tempered and nurtured by him for so long that its spiritual nature was on par with a real magic treasure.


    This was its first "unsheathing," the moment when all its stored energy erupted in a powerful burst.


    Bang!


    The shrunken ruler was blocked by arge turtle puppet over a zhang tall, absorbing the remaining energy of the attack.


    The turtle puppet remained unmoved, its surface glowing faintly with patterns, showing no damage whatsoever.


    "A quasi-third-rank puppet? No, just its defense reaches quasi-third rank..."


    Tan Immortal''s brows furrowed as he realized the situation had be moreplicated.


    Beside Lan Chang''an, Fairy Shi had also summoned a golden ring-shaped magical treasure prototype, ready to help defend against the ruler attack, but it had turned out to be unnecessary.


    "What are you all standing around for?"


    Tan Immortal urged his three Foundation Establishment followers, who stood there with uncertainty written on their faces.


    "Tan Immortal, it seems the restrictions on those two Foundation Establishment Fellow Daoists were ced by Hu Immortal. Now that Hu Immortal is gone, they have the right to decide their own fate."


    Lan Chang''anughed lightly as he stood behind the turtle puppet.


    Of the three remaining Foundation Establishment cultivators, only Lady Wei hadn¡¯t been subjected to any restrictions.


    The remaining two, the high-nosed young man and the elderly man, had been bound by restrictions ced by Hu Immortal. Since third-rank formation masters were often skilled in restrictions, it was a more secure method of control.


    Now that Hu Immortal was dead, Tan Immortal couldn¡¯t control their life and death directly.


    As Lan Chang''an and Tan Immortal exchanged blows, Lady Wei quietly retreated a few steps.


    The other two hesitated, but after witnessing Lan Chang''an sessfully fend off an attack from a Fake Dan cultivator, they were astonished.


    Seeing the situation, they realized that with Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi working together, they could indeed fight against Tan Immortal.


    In that case, there was no need for them to serve Tan Immortal and risk their lives for him.


    ...


    "Tan Immortal, if you kill Fellow Daoist Lan and hispanion, are you certain you''ll be able to ess the hidden formation gate leading to the treasure vault? Can you ensure your safety on the way back?"


    Lady Wei¡¯s voice, calm as the night, spoke up at just the right moment.


    "Lady Wei has a point."


    Tan Immortal''s expression softened. He was quite courteous toward Lady Wei, using her words as a graceful way to back down.


    The power that Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi had just disyed, capable of challenging a Fake Dan Immortal, was not something that could be dealt with easily. Furthermore, Fairy Shi, as the only formation master, was now indispensable.


    "Little theif Lan! The grudge between us¡ªlet¡¯s settle it after we leave the ruins!"


    Tan Immortal stowed away his ruler magical treasure, leaving with harsh words.


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly and also put away his magical treasure prototype and turtle puppet.


    Humiliated, Tan Immortal made his way back to the six-sided pavilion, bringing Lady Wei with him to search for the token Hu Immortal had lost earlier.


    Lan Chang''an had no interest in joining them.


    When Hu Immortal broke through the formation earlier, Lan Chang''an had merged with the Nine Seal Stele, allowing his powerful spiritual sense to observe critical details.


    The token had actually been swept away by the formation¡¯s power into a separate treasure vault.


    At the time, Tan Immortal had been focused on saving Hu Immortal and, without the advantage of the Nine Seal Stele, hadn¡¯t noticed this subtle detail.


    "Fairy Shi, did you manage to figure out how to break the seventh hidden formation gate?"


    Lan Chang''an set up a soundproof barrier and beganmunicating with Shi Manrong through voice transmission.


    "After witnessing it twice, my formation skills have improved significantly. Breaking through the gate is no longer an issue. Besides, the gate was just breached earlier, so it''s in a weakened state with even more apparent ws."


    Shi Manrong smiled gently, her confidence evident.


    "And the killing traps behind the seventh formation gate? How should we deal with those?"


    "I¡¯ve already figured out the basics. That token is only a key to enter the vault¡ªit serves to verify identity. Without the right identity, even if you have the token, the killing traps will still activate."


    "Fortunately, the ancient formation is iplete, with many ws. When the timees, we just need to destroy the rted formation nodes in advance to cut off the trap''s sensing mechanisms."


    "I see."


    Lan Chang''an understood the general principle.


    Then, he sighed, "It''s a pity that Hu Immortal''s restriction-breaking orb was destroyed earlier in the killing array."


    "That orb was already mostly depleted. With the gate now in a weakened state, a quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talismanbined with a Fake Dan-level attack will suffice."


    Shi Manrong remainedposed and assured.


    "Breaking the formation isn''t hard, but where will we find another token?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered aloud.


    Hu Immortal had used one token, and Qi Immortal had used another decades ago.


    There were still unexplored areas in the ancient ruins. If one was willing to spend time and take some risks, it was possible to find another token.


    Shi Manrong nced at Tan Immortal in the distance.


    Her lips curved subtly, and with a soft scent wafting, she leaned in close to Lan Chang''an''s ear.


    "You...have one?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart leapt with joy. This former pillow partner of his had kept her own secrets.


    Shi Manrong had indeed acquired a token, one that she found while exploring the outskirts of the ruins after Qi Immortal¡¯s death years ago.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, prepare yourself. Once I break the formation and enter the vault, you¡¯ll be in charge of covering me. If we''re sessful, we¡¯ll split the treasures fifty-fifty. How does that sound?"


    "Fifty-fifty? No problem."


    Lan Chang''an agreed without hesitation, feeling a newfound respect for her.


    Breaking the formation and entering the vault carried unknown risks.


    It was Shi Manrong who had provided the opportunity by discovering the ruins, and she had to both break the formation and risk her life to obtain the treasure.


    The fifty-fifty split was because of Lan Chang''an¡¯s role in killing Hu Immortal and his demonstrated ability to hold his own.


    "Before we go for the treasure, there''s a ce I want to visit first."


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment and nced toward an area they had passed earlier, beyond the bridge.


    At this point in the ruins, no one could restrict their movements.


    ...


    A short whileter.


    At the top floor of a pavilion deep within the ruins.


    "The restriction on this room is connected to the remnants of an ancient formation. Even after all these years, it still retains formidable power. Even a True Dan cultivator would struggle to break it, and it could lead to a dangerous bacsh."


    Fairy Shi scrutinized the room in front of them, noting the restriction embedded into the structure.


    "Meaning, it can''t be broken?"


    When they passed through here earlier, Lan Chang''an had noticed something unusual. He sent two puppets to test it out, but they were instantly shredded to pieces by an invisible force.


    "No, if we had a third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman, I¡¯d be confident in breaking it. Time has eroded the restriction considerably, and there are obvious weak points."


    "A third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman?"


    Lan Chang''an flipped his hand, producing a Restriction-Breaking Treasure Talisman, slightlyrger than an ordinary talisman.


    This treasure talisman¡¯s power slightly exceeded that of a low-grade third-rank talisman.


    Shi Manrong took the talisman from him, sensing the terrifying energy within. She nced at Lan Chang''an but asked no questions.


    After observing the room for a while longer, Fairy Shi retreated a safe distance and activated the talisman.


    Fwoosh!


    A twisted beam of ck and white light surged forward, dragging arcs of destructive lightning as it struck the surface of the room, triggering a shimmering wave of blue and white light.


    Lan Chang''an summoned his turtle puppet to shield himself, secretly gripping a handful of talismans in his sleeve.


    "It worked."


    The blue and white light rippling over the surface of the room was torn open, temporarily cutting off the power source from the ancient remnant formation.


    Fairy Shi exhaled slightly in relief and gestured for Lan Chang''an to move quickly.


    Instead of entering the room himself, Lan Chang''an sent his puppets and the Earth Burrowing Rat inside to scavenge whatever they could.


    The room held no living presence, and there weren¡¯t many items inside.


    After a few dozen breaths, the restriction began to recover.


    The puppets and the Earth Burrowing Rat retreated.


    Lan Chang''an sorted through the gathered items, picking out a jade slip and a dark gold token.


    This token was simr to the one Hu Immortal had used earlier, but its quality was clearly superior.


    "Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Lan,"


    Fairy Shi said cheerfully.


    Lan Chang''an pocketed the dark gold token, then examined the jade slip with a look of surprise.


    He handed the jade slip to Shi Manrong.


    "The ''Tinghai Pavilion'' from the near ancient sects? Was this pavilion once ce where a Nascent Soul True Monarch sat?"


    Shi Manrong gasped.


    No wonder the room¡¯s restriction had been so strong. Even earlier, when two Fake Dan cultivators passed by, they hadn¡¯t dared to attempt breaking it and had moved on instead.


    The jade slip resembled a journal, documenting the basic situation of the ancient ruins during a certain period.


    While there wasn¡¯t any confidential information, the details recorded gave the two of them greater insight into the ruins and the six-sided pavilion.


    ...


    On their way back to the six-sided pavilion.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Tan Immortal, Lady Wei, and the others were searching through nearby structures, likely hunting for tokens or any other opportunities.


    "Little Friend Lan, it seems you¡¯ve just broken through a restriction. Did you find another token?"


    Tan Immortal flew over, probing with a question.


    "I did, and I¡¯m nning to let Fairy Shi use the token to break the formation and retrieve the treasure."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t bother hiding the truth.


    "Oh? That¡¯s wonderful news. Do you need assistance from me, Tan?"


    Tan Immortal¡¯s eyes gleamed, and he offered.


    "With Tan Immortal''s help, breaking the formation and obtaining the treasure would indeed be much more secure."


    Lan Chang''an smiled.


    Tan Immortal was briefly taken aback, not expecting Lan Chang''an to ept his offer so easily.


    Following Fairy Shi¡¯s instructions, he summoned his ruler magical treasure, surging with Core power, and aimed it at a certain point above the bronze door.


    Boom!


    The array formation above the six-sided pavilion trembled, opening arge hole simr to the one earlier.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, be cautious of Tan Immortal,"


    Fairy Shi said in a voice transmission to Lan Chang''an as she produced an ancient bronze token.


    Swoosh!


    She stepped on a beam of light, flying through therge gap in the formation.


    On the other side of the gap, the outline of another dimension flickered faintly.


    Fairy Shi held the token tightly, closed her eyes, and activated a quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman aimed at a point above her head.


    Sizzle! Boom!


    The blue and white lightning shed with the talisman¡¯s power, both forces canceling each other out.


    The red glow on the token in Fairy Shi¡¯s hand quickly returned to normal.


    The trap¡¯s sensing mechanism had been sessfully cut off!


    Fairy Shi passed safely through the gap, soon enveloped in a beam of white light. Her figure blurred and disappeared from sight.


    Lan Chang''an sensed her presence enter another space, and he exhaled in relief.


    He had been prepared for Tan Immortal to interfere or snatch the token, though it seemed unlikely.


    As a genius formation master, Fairy Shi had a much higher sess rate of breaking the formation and retrieving the treasure than anyone else, especially with Hu Immortal¡¯s earlier failure serving as a lesson.


    After Fairy Shi entered, the gap in the array didn¡¯t immediately close, and it was healing even more slowly than before.


    Tan Immortal and Lan Chang''an stood facing each other from a distance.


    Now that Fairy Shi was inside the treasure vault, if Tan Immortal wanted to kill Lan Chang''an, this would be the perfect opportunity!


    Tan Immortal¡¯s eyes sharpened as his Core power surged, enveloped in a blue glow as he shot forward like a storm, covering dozens of zhang in an instant.


    "No¡­ Immortal, spare me!"


    A few momentster, an elderly man in the middle stage of Foundation Establishment, who had been hiding in a nearby building, was dragged out by Tan Immortal like a chicken.


    "This is the opportunity that I, Tan Immortal, am giving you!"


    Tan Immortal, without giving him any choice, hurled the old man into the gap in the array.


    With his cultivation sealed and his body out of his control, the old man closed his eyes as he helplessly passed through the array¡¯s gap.


    Unexpectedly, something shocking happened.


    Shwoosh!


    A beam of white light enveloped the old man, and in a sh, he disappeared into the hidden treasure vault.


    "Haha! Is the ancient formation malfunctioning?"


    Tan Immortal was first stunned, then overjoyed, and he shot toward the still-open gap.


    But he wasn¡¯t the only one moving¡ªLady Wei and the high-nosed young man also rushed eagerly toward the opening.


    "Eh, Tan Immortal, don¡¯t be so hasty."


    Suddenly, a heavy and oppressive wind, like a fierce beast trampling a mountain, intercepted Tan Immortal¡¯s path.


    The gust mmed into Tan Immortal''s protective aura, making it groan and crackle.

 Chapter 210: The Mysterious Gourd Vine

    "Little thief! How dare you¡ª"


    Tan Immortal roared sternly, having his guard up against Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an had previously used a needle-shaped talismanic treasure to kill Hu Immortal, its power rivaling that of a Fake Dan level. It was perfect for unexpected sneak attacks.


    However, if used in direct confrontation or against a prepared target, its threat to a Fake Dan cultivator was not significant. Let alone someone as powerful as Tan Immortal, who was at the peak of Fake Dan.


    As Tan Immortal flew towards the treasure vault space, he immediately activated a protective barrier around his body, wary of the needle-shaped talismanic treasure.


    In his eyes, Lan Chang''an was a sinister schemer.


    He was like a turtle shell¡ªhard to crack, alwaysunching sneak attacks when least expected.


    Yet this time, Lan Chang''an''s attackpletely exceeded his expectations.Like a wild beast, he charged head-on.


    Whoosh!


    A ck shadow shed across the field of vision. Lan Chang''an''s speed was even faster than that of a Fake Dan cultivator. A fierce wind surged as his legs flickered with a blue glow.


    His figure seemed to grow slightly taller, exuding the oppressive pressure of a ferocious beast''s blood and Qi. In the blink of an eye, he was right in front of Tan Immortal.


    "Your Excellency Tan Immortal, you are a Fake Dan Immortal, can you receive a strike from me?"


    With a swift motion, Lan Chang''an wielded the ck-gold scimitar that exuded magic treasure level spirituality as a melee weapon, and with the addition of Evergreen Mana under the weight of terrifying strength and speed, he shed out with a sword that was as powerful as a thunderbolt.


    In an instant, the dazzling crescent-shaped de light filled Tan Immortal''s pupils.


    Boom! Crack!


    The protective barrier, which he had confidently believed could withstand the talismanic treasure, trembled violently. The spiritual light rapidly dimmed before splitting open with a crack.


    "You¡ª"


    Tan Immortal''s face showed shock as the powerful impact churned his blood and Qi, sending him flying backward towards the ground.


    "Terrifying!"


    The twote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators flying towards the formation gate couldn''t help but feel their scalps tingle.


    "A single strike pushed back a Fake Dan cultivator? Could Lan Chang''an be a genius of this era?"


    The young man with a high nose bridge, at the peak of Foundation Establishment, broke out in cold sweat. He had dared to attack such a figure earlier.


    Lady Wei, both astonished and secretly relieved, she was secretly d that she had luckily avoided shing with Lan Chang''an before.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The twote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators didn''t dare linger. Without looking back, they seized the opportunity to fly through the rapidly closing formation gate.


    Both hoped that Lan Chang''an and Tan Immortal would engage in a prolonged battle, buying them more time to take the treasure.


    ...


    "Lan Chang''an, you''ve hidden so deeply. Who would have thought that a mere ''Turtle Talisman Master'' could cultivate his body to the level of quasi-third-rank?"


    Tan Immortal growled, blue light surging from his body like a torrent as hisrge figure suddenly froze in midair.


    Buzz!


    He spat out the ck ruler magical treasure from his mouth, which rapidly expanded to over ten zhang in length, condensing vast blue radiance. The ruler came crashing down towards Lan Chang''an with the force of a thunderp.


    At the same time, Tan Immortal summoned a ck iron shield, a supreme-grade magical weapon, to defend against any further sneak attacks from Lan Chang''an.


    "Heh, without some means of self-preservation, how could I live up to the title of ''Turtle Talisman Master''?"


    Lan Chang''an chuckled lightly.


    Seeing the enormous magical treasure ruler crashing down, his legs stirred up a gust of wind, and his figure blurred like a phantom as he swiftly retreated.


    While retreating, he swung his ck-gold scimitar to meet the ruler head-on. However, after just one or two breaths, the scimitar dimmed and was forced to withdraw.


    The difference between a magical treasure prototype and a genuine magical treasure, and between ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator and a Fake Dan cultivator, was not easily bridged.


    Seizing the opportunity, Lan Chang''an retreated further out of the ruler¡¯s range, using the ancient structures around him to constantly dodge and avoid battle.


    If Tan Immortal had been an ordinary Fake Dan cultivator, Lan Chang''an wouldn''t have minded relying on his body refinement and spell attainments to exchange a few more blows.


    But this person was at the pinnacle of the Fake Dan realm. Engaging him head-on was unnecessary.


    Most Fake Dan cultivators could only wield one magical treasure, but Tan Immortal could simultaneously control a supreme-grade magical weapon for defense.


    "Lan Chang''an! Stop hiding like a coward! Weren¡¯t you quite bold just now?"


    "Do you dare to face me head-on?" Tan Immortal roared angrily as he chased after Lan Chang''an, wielding his magical treasure and magical weapon.


    The embarrassing thing was¡ªhe couldn''t catch up.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s body refinement technique emphasized speed, andbined with his spell enhancement, he was just a bit faster than Tan Immortal.


    In the air, Tan Immortal might still have a slim chance.


    But near the ground, theplex ancient buildings formed natural barriers.


    The materials used in these ancient ruins were extremely sturdy. Even a Immortal would struggle to casually destroy them.


    "Tan Immortal, with your deep reserves of mana and your longsting energy as a Fake Dan Immortal, if you keep chasing me, you¡¯ll eventually wear me out."


    Lan Chang''anughed mockingly.


    Tan Immortal hesitated. That made sense.


    But something felt off. There was no reason for Lan Chang''an to be so kind as to remind him that.


    Suddenly.


    As Tan Immortal was flying, he stumbled, feeling his blood and Qi stagnate, and his mana be sluggish.


    "Not good! When did I get poisoned?"


    A trace of greenish-ck blood appeared on his forehead, and his breathing became hot and painful, with a faint ache in his chest.


    "That third-rank poison from the medicine vault... I wonder how much of its potency has been lost, but it''s finally taking effect."


    Seeing this, Lan Chang''an sighed and shook his head.


    If it hadn''t been for the poisoning,


    he wouldn¡¯t have put on a show of "heroism," breaking through Tan Immortal''s protective barrier with a direct strike.


    It was during that brief close-range encounter that Lan Chang''an had secretly administered the poison.


    Earlier, while selecting items in the medicine vault, he had acquired a ck jar containing a colorless and odorless third-rank poison.


    Though the potency of normal third-rank elixirs in the medicine vault had significantly diminished, Lan Chang''an had identified that the poison in this jar had retained more of its original potencypared to the other elixirs.


    Over time, even poisons can degrade, resulting in unpredictable changes in toxicity.


    Lan Chang''an could only specte that it would be effective against a Fake Dan cultivator, to what extent, it needed to be proven in practice.


    ...


    "Insidious little thief!"


    Tan Immortal was livid. After confirming that he was poisoned, he suppressed his anger and refrained from pursuing Lan Chang''an further.


    Earlier, when Lan Chang''an had charged at him head-on, he had thought they were going to have an honorable fight.


    But just like with Hu Immortal, he had fallen into a trap again.


    Whoosh!


    Tan Immortal stepped on his escape light and turned to flee.


    Silently circting his mana, he tried to suppress the third-rank poison in his body.


    "Something''s wrong! The more I circte my mana, the faster the poison spreads."


    The greenish-ck blood patterns on Tan Immortal''s face expanded further.


    He quickly realized that he had been afflicted with a slow-acting poison. Initially subtle, ity dormant in his body.


    But once activated by their duel, it began to spread at an rming rate.


    Tan Immortal swallowed several antidote pills, but they had little effect.


    His condition continued to deteriorate, with his blood vessels and internal organs gradually corroding.


    A chill ran down Tan Immortal''s spine. He suspected that he had been poisoned by a rare ancient poison, and only a specific third-rank antidote would be effective in neutralizing it.


    "Hmm, this third-rank poison is quite effective."


    Lan Chang''an raised an eyebrow in surprise, following Tan Immortal from a distance.


    Through practical use, he now understood the nature of the poison. If detected early in thetent stage, it could be expelled or isted, leaving room for resistance.


    At that time, Lan Chang''an had posed a direct threat to Tan Immortal, which had distracted thetter, preventing him from noticing the poison.


    Tan Immortal found a corner to hide and tried to purge the poison from his system.


    "Sit down and heal your wounds? How could it be that easy?"


    Lan Chang''an sneered as his powerful spiritual sense easily located Tan Immortal''s hiding ce.


    He didn¡¯t need to take any direct action.


    From a distance, Lan Chang''an controlled a puppet to harass Tan Immortal, preventing him from concentrating on detoxification.


    If Tan Immortal retaliated with spells or magical treasures, it would only elerate the spread of the poison.


    Tan Immortal had no choice but to flee in embarrassment, using talismans to defend himself while constantly searching for new ces to heal.


    To avoid the risk of Tan Immortal retaliating desperately, Lan Chang''an didn''t press too hard, instead focusing on harassment.


    Before long, Tan Immortal''s mana had weakened to the point where it was noticeably inferior to that of a typical Fake Dan cultivator.


    "Not a threat anymore."


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly. Even if Tan Immortal managed to detoxify himself, his strength would be greatly diminished.


    Lan Chang''an then shifted his gaze toward the six-sided pavilion.


    Above it, the hole in the seventh formation gate had already sealed up.


    By now, Lan Chang''an had sessfully poisoned and forced back Tan Immortal, which meant he had achieved his desired oue.


    ...


    After waiting for a while longer.


    The blue crystal orb suspended above the six-sided pavilion shed with spiritual light.


    Buzz!


    The hidden formation gate opened, and a beam of white light descended. A familiar, graceful figure emerged from within.


    "Fellow Daoist Shi, how did it go?"


    Lan Chang''an exhaled in relief as he looked at the joyful face of Fairy Shi.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I entered a miniature secret space, and indeed, it was the secret treasure vault left behind by the near-ancient sect, Tinghai Pavilion."


    "The treasure vault contained some valuable items, but they were divided into different tiers. My token only allowed me to retrieve one item, and I couldn''t ess the highest-grade treasures..."


    "Oh, was there anything inside that could help with Core Formation? What did you take?" Lan Chang''an inquired without suspicion.


    "There was something that could aid in Core Formation. However, I chose a formation technique inheritance instead."


    As she spoke, Shi Manrong produced a jade slip.


    "A formation inheritance?" Lan Chang''an was surprised.


    "I made the right choice." Shi Manrong smiled, exining, "This formation inheritance is among the best in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world. With some study, I¡¯m confident I can be a third-rank formation master at the peak of the Foundation Establishment Realm."


    "I see."


    Lan Chang''an nodded, understanding her reasoning. With her status, Shi Manrong had likely already prepared several resources for Core Formation. Once she became a third-rank formation master, obtaining Core Formation resources would be much easier.


    At that point, her status and influence would rival that of a True Dan cultivator, surpassing that of a Fake Dan expert.


    "I''ll make a copy of this jade slip for youter, Fellow Daoist Lan. If you don''t believe what I''ve said, you¡¯re wee to search me."


    Shi Manrong spoke seriously.


    "There''s no need. We''ve known each other for years, so there''s no need for such measures."


    Lan Chang''an chose to trust her.


    The key point was that he had his own token¡ªan ancient relic left behind by Tinghai Pavilion¡¯s Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    This token had been acquired with the help of Fairy Shi when she had broken through the restrictions.


    Even if they ended up obtaining separate treasures, Lan Chang''an was fine with it.


    "Hmm? Where''s Tan Immortal?"


    Fairy Shi scanned the surroundings, looking surprised.


    "Tan Immortal is currently detoxifying or preparing to break the formation and escape the ruins..."


    Lan Chang''an briefly exined Tan Immortal''s situation.


    Fairy Shi¡¯s expression wasplex. Her clear eyes locked onto Lan Chang''an, and her body instinctively tensed up, as if preparing to step back.


    "Fairy Shi, what is the meaning of this? Do you not trust me?"


    "Fellow Daoist Lan has misunderstood." Fairy Shi forced a smile. "I¡¯m just overwhelmed. I never expected that two Fake Dan experts would be defeated by your... brilliant strategies."


    "It was merely luck. The special environment here,bined with their overconfidence, worked in my favor."


    Lan Chang''an replied humbly.


    "By the way, I''m heading into the treasure vault soon. Fairy Shi, please keep an eye on Tan Immortal for me. I''ll have the Earth Burrowing Rat assist you."


    "I understand."


    Fairy Shi agreed readily.


    By now, Tan Immortal was a defeated dog, no longer a serious threat.


    ...


    Once everything was arranged, Lan Chang''an took out the dark gold token left behind by Tinghai Pavilion''s Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Compared to the ancient bronze tokens that Shi Manrong and Hu Immortal had acquired, Lan Chang''an''s token appeared of much higher quality.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, the hidden seventh formation gate is loosening further. A strong attack, near the level of a Fake Dan cultivator, should be enough to break through. Afterward, I''ll help you cut off the trap formation''s sensory nodes."


    Shi Manrong exined.


    "Understood."


    Lan Chang''an soared into the air, summoning his ck-gold scimitar, a magical treasure prototype.


    Thanks to his powerful spiritual sense and the decades spent nourishing the magical treasure prototype with his mana, the cost of controlling it was much lower than for an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Whoosh!


    The ck-gold scimitar shed out a crescent de, striking the w in the formation gate that Fairy Shi had indicated.


    Boom!


    Ripples of formation light appeared, then shattered, creating an evenrger hole.


    Fairy Shi then activated a superior-grade second-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman to help Lan Chang''an sever the trap formation''s sensory nodes.


    What surprised her, however, was that the token in Lan Chang''an''s hand did not emit the faint red light it had before.


    "Just as I thought."


    Lan Chang''an remained calm as he passed through the hole in the formation gate. A white light enveloped his body, and his figure disappeared in an instant.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an felt his body sink, a sensation akin to falling into an abyss.


    "So much spiritual energy."


    In the next moment, he found himself in a miniature secret space spanning about a li in radius. In the center was an ancient, deste garden from ancient times.


    At the heart of the garden stood a spiritual well, several zhang in width, from which clear spiritual springs bubbled forth.


    Radiating outward from the well were numerous stone tforms, totaling more than eighty.


    Some of the tforms were covered by transparent barriers, with various items floating inside.


    There were three circles of tforms.


    The innermost circle had only four tforms.


    The second circle had sixteen tforms.


    The third circle had sixty-four tforms.


    However, most of the tforms were without barriers and werepletely empty.


    Among the four tforms in the innermost circle, only one had a barrier.


    The second and third circles had about a dozen tforms with items still encased within barriers.


    ording to Fairy Shi, her token had only allowed her to take one item from the third circle.


    "Xuanmu Vine... Yin Yang Water... Superior Crystal Condensation Pills... Demonizing Mirror..."


    Each tform had a brief description of the item''s name and its uses. Lan Chang''an quickly skimmed through, his eyes burning with desire.


    Of the many treasures, what caught his attention the most were the "Yin Yang Water" and the "superior Crystal Condensation Pills," both located within the second circle.


    The tforms in the third circle contained ordinary treasures, Core Formation items, jade slips, and other items.


    Taking a deep breath, Lan Chang''an approached a tform in the second circle. The one containing the superior Crystal Condensation Pills. His gazended on the jade bottle floating within the barrier.


    The superior pills inside were a luxury that Lan Chang''an could barely dream of even after three lifetimes.


    Not far from the tform stood another barrier containing a crystal bottle, within which ck-and-white liquid beads swirled¡ªa rare treasure of the heavens and earth, the Yin Yang Water.


    The Yin Yang Water could help a cultivator dissolve their Fake Dan or True Dan, returning their mana to the Foundation Establishment''s liquid form.


    This would allow for a second attempt at Core Formation, slightly improving the quality of the core.


    "If I could obtain both the Yin Yang Water and the superior Crystal Condensation Pills, I¡¯d have a real chance at forming the Immortal Golden Dan."


    Lan Chang''an''s breathing became heavier as he circted his Evergreen Technique to calm his mind.


    At such a critical juncture, he had to remain steady and not let his guard down.


    Communicating with the token in his hand, he quickly received a simple message.


    "You can take one item from the first circle."


    "You can take two items from the second circle. And four items from the third..."


    This was the method that Fairy Shi had figured out earlier.


    To im an item, one simply needed to touch the barrier with the token.


    If the token wasn''tpatible, the barrier would remain sealed, and the treasure would be inessible.


    Anyone attempting to touch the barrier without a token would trigger the formation''s attack.


    The power of these formations was said to rival a Nascent Soul expert''s strike.


    ording to Fairy Shi, the high-nosed youth at the peak of Foundation Establishment had been obliterated by the formation when he tried to take a treasure. Not even ashes remained of him.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t immediately im a treasure. Instead, he scanned the miniature secret space and said lightly:


    "Come out."


    "Senior Lan! This junior meant no offense, please show mercy."


    From behind an ancient tree a hundred zhang away, a long-haired, cold beauty dressed in a gauzy dress crawled out, appearing disheveled.


    It was none other than Lady Wei, who had entered earlier.


    "Why aren''t you dead?" Lan Chang''an''s tone was cold. He had little fondness for Wei, who practiced demonic cultivation.


    "I... I can''t get out! Without a token, I''m enduring immense pressure from this space. If I stay much longer, I''ll explode."


    Lady Wei''s face flushed red, drenched in cold sweat as shey on the ground, struggling even to breathe.


    "Why are you calling me Senior Lan?" Lan Chang''an frowned, his face thoughtful.


    "My master once mentioned you in passing. He told me that if I ever encountered you, I must show respect."


    "Your master is Liang Shaotian?" Lan Chang''an''s gaze sharpened. From her demonic cultivation, he could sense a simr aura, suggesting a shared lineage.


    "Yes! Please... please show mercy, Senior... take me out of here. I¡¯m willing to¡ª"


    Before she could finish, Lady Wei''s eyes rolled back, and she fainted, blood trickling from her mouth and nose.


    After a brief probe with his spiritual sense, Lan Chang''an approached.


    After a moment''s hesitation, he nted a restriction in her dantian.


    Then, he took out the lowest quality second-rank protective talisman he had and pped it on her face, conveniently covering her eyes.


    "Let''s see how your fate turns out."


    Lan Chang''an then returned to the first circle of tforms.


    ...


    The token''s feedback indicated that Lan Chang''an could only take one item from the tforms in the first circle.


    However, only one tform in the entire circle had an item protected by a barrier.


    And that was the legendary heaven-and-earth spiritual item, the Xuanmu Vine.


    Inside the barriery a withered, yellowed vine nted in dull five-colored soil.


    A hole in the tform next to the soil was continuously spraying spiritual spring water, nourishing the vine, but it seemed like it could no longer revive it.


    The Xuanmu Vine had only a small remaining sliver of green, less than one-tenth of its total size.


    Lan Chang''an also noticed a small, shriveled gourd fruit attached to one of its withered branches.


    As he examined the vine, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but recall a previous transaction with Daoist Tianshu, where he had burned his lifespan to help sustain the vitality of a peachwood branch.


    There was a faint simrity in the aura between the two, though there were some differences.


    ording to Daoist Tianshu, that peachwood branch had been one of the materials used in crafting the "Nine-Five Supreme Treasure Dragon Artifacts," a treasured artifact of the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty in the Fenghua Continent.


    "Xuanmu Vine, obtained from a mysterious ancient cave dwelling. Said to be apanion vine from the beginning of the world..."


    "Failed in nurturing the Xuantian Gourd. Over 90% of its life force is gone. Survival after transntation is unlikely."


    The stone tform had a simple inscription carved into it.


    "What is this ''Xuantian Gourd''?"


    Even after three lifetimes of cultivation, Lan Chang''an had never heard of it.


    "This withered Xuanmu Vine, even Tinghai Pavilion couldn¡¯t save it. Though my Evergreen Technique is unique, reviving it as a wood-based magic treasure embryo would likely require an enormous price."


    Based on the information from the jade slip, Lan Chang''an estimated that Tinghai Pavilion¡¯s strength far exceeded that of any Nascent Soul-level force in the vicinity of the Liang Kingdom.


    In fact, the jade slip had mentioned that there were more than three Nascent Soul True Monarchs within Tinghai Pavilion alone.


    If such a behemoth couldn¡¯t save the vine, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want to take the risk.


    "Forget it, not worth it."


    Shaking his head, Lan Chang''an turned away and headed for the second circle of tforms.


    Compared to the near-dead Xuanmu Vine, the Yin Yang Water and superior Crystal Condensation Pills were much safer bets.


    Extra chap today, cause why not ;)

 Chapter 211: Taking the Treasure Out

    As he turned around, Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred with a faint sense of unease, as if he had missed something important. His gaze naturally swept over the adjacent empty stone tform.


    Although there was no protective barrier or treasure on it, an item name was engraved there.


    "Superior... Infant Transformation Pill!?"


    Lan Chang''an''s heart pounded, and he couldn''t help but exim.


    On the adjacent empty stone tform, there had once been a legendary Infant Transformation Pill!


    This was a sacred pill that had been beyond his wildest dreams in his previous life.


    The Infant Transformation Pill could assist Core Formation cultivators shatter their Cores and transform into an infant more smoothly, turning them into True Monarchs.


    In this life, after cultivating in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world for over a hundred years, Lan Chang''an had never heard of an Infant Transformation Pill appearing anywhere.Not to mention a superior-grade one.


    Lan Chang''an realized that he had underestimated the value of the four stone tforms in the first circle.


    "The treasures in this space are all of superior quality."


    "And the four stone tforms in the first circle hold treasures that could be considered the sacred items of a Nascent Soul-level ancient sect, determining its rise or fall."


    Taking a deep breath, Lan Chang''an''s mind raced as he fell into brief contemtion.


    His gaze once again fell on the protective barrier surrounding the Xuanmu Vine, studying it carefully and weighing the pros and cons.


    This time, he made a new discovery.


    Among the four stone tforms in the first circle, the Xuanmu Vine''s location had the highest regard.


    A spiritual spring from the very center of the space had been diverted to continuously nourish the withered, yellow vine.


    The soil in which the vine was nted shimmered faintly with five colors.


    "Could this soil be the legendary Five Element Spirit Soil?"


    Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred as he spected.


    The Five Element Spirit Soil, also known as Five Element Earth, was something he had never seen before but had read about in ancient records from his previous life.


    He guessed this because the Five Element Earth was reputed to be a "universal soil source," capable of cultivating nearly all spiritual nts in the world.


    Many rare immortal nts and herbs, which had extremely demanding growth environments, could survive in the Five Element Spirit Soil and even benefit from significant growth enhancements!


    Aside from cultivating spiritual nts, the Five Element Earth was also a top-tier material for refining tools, capable of harmonizing with almost any material, enhancing the quality of magical weapons and increasing the sess rate of crafting.


    The withered Xuanmu Vine was notoriously difficult to cultivate and sustain.


    For the Tinghai Pavilion to nt it in the universal soil source, the Five Element Earth, made perfect sense.


    "As a legendary spiritual soil, even a small portion of this would surpass the value of a superior Crystal Condensation Pill. It might even hold higher strategic significance..."


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes gleamed, and his previous decision for "stable gains" wavered.


    He made a preliminary judgment that the Xuanmu Vine, along with the potential Xuantian Gourd it could produce, was far more valuable than the superior Infant Transformation Pill.


    It might hold secrets beyond the Nascent Soul Realm.


    This item had not been taken because transnting it would make it even more difficult to survive. The higher-ups of Tinghai Pavilion were not confident in its survival.


    This ruin had once served as Tinghai Pavilion''s refuge and secret treasury, leaving behind the Xuanmu Vine in hopes of a future chance for revival.


    From the information Lan Chang''an had gleaned from the jade slip, it seemed that Tinghai Pavilion was not a sect from the surrounding cultivation nations. They had been hunted and were evading some unknown force.


    After countless years, since no one had returned to reim the items from the ruin, it was likely that they had either been exterminated, or there was a break in their inheritance.


    ...


    "If I have the Five Element Earth as a foundation, along with my Evergreen secret spell and spiritual power to nourish it, keeping the Xuanmu Vine alive shouldn''t be a problem."


    Lan Chang''an murmured.


    This insight came from his past dealings with Daoist Tianshu.


    The peach wood branch that the Daoist Tianshu had presented to him back then was of such a high grade that it exceeded Lan Chang''an''s understanding¡ªit was likely at least fifth rank.


    Even that kind of spiritual wood had been sustained by Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen secret spell for a period of time.


    Now, with his spiritual power far stronger than when he had first entered the Foundation Establishment Realm, his healing and nurturing abilities were tied to the quality of his spiritual power.


    Combined with the Five Element Earth, Lan Chang''an was confident that he could transnt and sustain the Xuanmu Vine.


    As for reviving it and cultivating the Xuantian Gourd, Lan Chang''an had no guarantees.


    Perhaps he could seed, but the cost was incalcble.


    However, while there were no guarantees now, that didn''t mean there wouldn''t be in the future.


    In a few decades, once Lan Chang''an sessfully reached the Core Formation Realm, with superior-grade core quality, his spiritual power would undergo a qualitative leap, and his lifespan would extend to over a thousand years, significantly increasing the odds of sess.


    The one thing Lan Chang''an wasn''tcking was time.


    He had already nurtured the Profound Water Turtle, whose growth cycle spanned centuries. One more mysterious vine wouldn''t be too much of a burden.


    The chance for a great fortune above the Nascent Soul Realm¡ªif he missed this opportunity, it might nevere again.


    Since Tan Immortal and others knew about and had explored this ancient ruin, there was no guarantee that the information hadn''t leaked.


    As war spread within the Liang Kingdom, the likelihood of exposure would only increase.


    "Even if I miss out on the Yin Yang Water and the superior Crystal Condensation Pill, I still have the genuine Crystal Condensation Pill and the Tianjing Water, it wouldn''t be difficult to achieve Core Formation."


    "If I can trade for a superior Core Dissolution Technique from Zhang Tieshan,bined with the advantages of my Evergreen secret spell, the quality of my core could still improve..."


    With that thought, Lan Chang''an decided to take a gamble.


    He stepped back, pulled out the dark gold token, and hurled it towards the protective barrier surrounding the Xuanmu Vine.


    Thud!


    As the dark gold token touched the stone tform''s barrier, a trace of golden lines flickered across its surface, and the powerful barrier shattered in response.


    Lan Chang''an breathed a sigh of relief and put away a few treasure talismans.


    As the barrier dissipated, the vibrant spiritual energy within began to spread.


    Lan Chang''an caught the faint scent of rot emanating from the withered vine, mixed with an indescribable and mysterious aura.


    It was like the beginning of heaven and earth, the intersection of yin and yang, a mysterious continuation from the primordial era.


    But Lan Chang''an didn''t immediately retrieve the Xuanmu Vine and the Five Element Earth.


    To ensure the sess of the transnt, he sacrificed half a year''s worth of lifespan and used the Evergreen secret spell at the root of the Xuanmu Vine.


    With his current cultivation and extended lifespan, the effect of the Evergreen secret spell was iparable to before.


    Now, half a year''s worth of lifespan was worth more than a full year when he was at the early Foundation Establishment stage.


    Buzz!


    Lan Chang''an''s palm glowed with an ancient, verdant light, emanating the aura of ancient trees and the passage of time, infusing new life force into the Xuanmu Vine.


    A few momentster.


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his hand and carefully observed the vine.


    The Xuanmu Vine was still withered and yellow, showing no obvious changes.


    Thest bit of green on the vine had not increased by much, covering less than five percent of the entire nt.


    But Lan Chang''an sensed a slight improvement in its life force.


    If, when he first saw the Xuanmu Vine, it had been on the verge of death, ready to return to the earth, now it had a faint glimmer of life¡ªa sign that it could be saved.


    "Good, it worked."


    Lan Chang''an let out a deep breath.


    As long as the life force could be maintained, and the cost wasn''t too great, he hadn''t made a wrong move.


    Next, Lan Chang''an began transnting the Xuanmu Vine.


    First, he retrieved arge porcin vat that had once been used to store spirit sand stones for body refining.


    Then, he took out a shovel and began to dig up the Five Element Earth along with the vine from the stone tform.


    The Five Element Earth didn''t look like much, but it was a few zhang thick, filling therge vat to the brim.


    Lan Chang''an took out two more jars, finally storing all the remaining Five Element Spirit Soil.


    In fact, even if the transnt of the Xuanmu Vine failed, just the value of the Five Element Earth alone was enough to make up for the loss of the Yin Yang Water and the superior Crystal Condensation Pill.


    This was the guaranteed reward.


    After the vine was transnted, its life force fluctuated for a moment.


    Fortunately, the life force only diminished by twenty or thirty percent before gradually stabilizing.


    This was thanks to the Five Element Spirit Soil and Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen secret spell.


    Without the Five Element Earth, Lan Chang''an''s rudimentary knowledge of spiritual nts wouldn''t have been enough to seed.


    Lan Chang''an then took some of the spiritual spring water and poured it over the Xuanmu Vine.


    After thinking for a moment, he held the dark gold token and walked towards the ancient well at the center of the space.


    The well''s protective formation opened automatically for him, revealing about half a yard of spiritual spring water still slowly being nurtured within.


    Lan Chang''an took all the spiritual spring water, leaving only a shallowyer.


    The spiritual spring water had maintained nearly third-rank quality after all these years, containing not only pure spiritual energy but also a trace of life force that could nourish spiritual nts.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that with his Evergreen magical power, nourishing the vine daily couldpletely rece the effect of the spiritual spring.


    ...


    "Almost done."


    After confirming the sess of the Xuanmu Vine transnt and its stable condition, Lan Chang''an stored therge vat into his storage pouch.


    He then turned his gaze to the stone tform in the second circle, attempting to throw the token towards the Yin Yang Water barrier, only for it to be bounced back.


    Slightly disappointed, Lan Chang''an picked up the dark gold token.


    He guessed that the token''s owner had once been the guardian of this ancient ruin.


    The token itself likely had many permissions rted to the ancient ruin''s formation and restrictions.


    However, due to the damage to the formation, and without knowing the token''s control techniques, Lan Chang''an could only make rudimentary use of it.


    Holding the token, Lan Chang''an sensed a faint pulling force from the space.


    As long as he injected his spiritual power into the token and connected with that pulling force, he would be teleported out.


    Aside from this method, Fairy Shi had also mentioned breaking through the formation gate directly as an alternative exit.


    "Hm? She''s still alive?"


    Lan Chang''an walked over to Lady Wei''s side.


    The protective talisman covering her eyes had already lost its spiritual light. Her body had been heavily suppressed by the space, and blood oozed from her nose, ears, and mouth.


    Even in her unconscious state, the remnants of her demonic cultivation were automatically protecting her, struggling for survival with an unyielding will to live.


    Lan Chang''an had originally intended to leave her to her fate but suddenly thought of something, and his expression shifted slightly.


    "This woman cannot die just yet. There are still things I need to ask her."


    Lan Chang''an temporarily changed his mind.


    If Lady Wei held a status in the remnants of the Demonic Sect equivalent to that of a true disciple, her death could immediately alert Liang Shaotian.


    In the years since the cultivation war, the remnants of the Demonic Sect had seized a prime opportunity to recover and develop. In remote areas of the Liang Kingdom and even neighboring nations, there were signs of their resurgence.


    Liang Shaotian had now grown into a formidable demonic figure, even stronger than Huanglong Immortal at his peak.


    Aside from Nascent Soul True Monarchs, there were few in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world who could say with certainty that they could defeat him.


    If it wasn''t absolutely necessary, Lan Chang''an didn''t want to make an enemy of such a person of destiny.


    In a way, he even owed Liang Shaotian a favor.


    Back then, Liang Shaotian had been bluffed by him, and the consequences had rippled down even to his disciples.


    Maintaining this delicate bnce might prove beneficial in the future.


    In the cultivation world, "three hundred years east, three hundred years west."


    Right now, the demonic path was in decline in the surrounding nations, but who could predict the tides of fate?


    "This miniature space seems to have signs of gradual copse?"


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an scanned every corner of the treasure vault, making sure nothing was missed.


    He discovered that this miniature secret realm wasn''t entirely stable. After some more years, it would likely copse and disappear.


    "Time to go."


    Grabbing Lady Wei by the arm, Lan Chang''an poured his spiritual power into the dark gold token.


    Ayer of white radiance descended, enveloping him and the surrounding area.


    In the next moment, Lan Chang''an, with Lady Wei in tow, was shifted out of the treasure vault by the ancient formation''s power.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you''ve returned."


    Not long after Lan Chang''an reappeared in front of the six-sided pavilion, Fairy Shi flew over from the direction of the bridge.


    Shi Manrong let out a small sigh of relief, her lips parting slightly before swallowing back the question she had intended to ask.


    Lan Chang''an''s gains in the treasure vault were his own secrets. His spoils of war didn''t involve her.


    However, she spected that Lan Chang''an would most likely have chosen an opportunity rted to Core Formation.


    For a Foundation Establishment cultivator, nothing was more tempting.


    "You saved her?"


    Shi Manrong''s clear eyes nced over at Lady Wei, whoy unconscious on the ground, on the verge of death.


    Previously, outside the ruin, Lady Wei had been involved in an attack on them, which was why Fairy Shi had not gone out of her way to save her.


    "Yes."


    Lan Chang''an exined Lady Wei''s identity and his concerns to Shi Manrong.


    "I underestimated this situation. I didn''t realize this woman had such a significant background. If she dies in the ruin and has a soulmp or other tracking artifact, it could alert the remnants of the demonic sect."


    Shi Manrong''s expression turned serious.


    "Once she wakes up, we''ll question her. We need to find out how exposed this ruin is and whether Liang Shaotian is aware of it."


    Lan Chang''an squatted down and fed Lady Wei two healing pills.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that Liang Shaotian probably didn''t know about this ancient ruin. Lady Wei was likely caught up in the situation by coincidence.


    Otherwise, the two Fake Dan Immortals would not have been in charge earlier.


    "What about Tan Immortal?"


    Lan Chang''an channeled a trace of Evergreen mana into Lady Wei''s body, elerating the healing of her internal injuries and preventing her from dying from the severe injuries.


    "His poison is out of control, and his condition is worsening. Earlier, he attempted to break through the formation at the bridge but failed."


    "Did he try to negotiate with you?"


    "He did." Fairy Shi took out a sound transmission talisman and handed it to Lan Chang''an.


    Within the talisman, Tan Immortal''s weak and conciliatory voice could be heard.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression shifted. He hadn''t expected the expired third-rank poison to be so effective.


    Even if Tan Immortal was scheming, it was a helpless move from the weaker side.


    "Keep an eye on this woman. I''ll be back shortly."


    Lan Chang''an stood up.


    In truth, the longer he dyed, the safer it would be.


    He could even wait for Tan Immortal to sumb to the poison.


    But Lan Chang''an had obtained a great fortune in the ancient ruin and wanted to leave as soon as possible.


    To avoidplications, he decided to personally take action.

 Chapter 212: Leaving Alone

    In the courtyard by the riverbank inside the ancient ruin, a hunched middle-aged many half-reclined among the grass and trees. His face and skin were oozing purplish-green pus and blood.


    "Cough cough... Lan Chang''an, show some mercy!"


    Tan Immortal feigned calmness, but blood continued to spurt from his mouth, and his voice sounded exceptionally weak.


    "You''ve already gained the opportunity from the ruin. Why must you push things to the point of life and death between us?"


    His eyes were tightly shut, and purplish-red toxic blood seeped from the cracks in his eyelids. It made one suspect that the poison had already rendered him blind.


    It was hard to imagine that the once-dominant and overbearing Immortal had fallen to such a pitiful state.


    "Fight? Fight what? In your dying condition, defeat my puppets first, then we¡¯ll talk."


    Lan Chang''an stood dozens of zhang outside the courtyard, controlling three or four puppets, steadily pushing them forward into the courtyard.The four puppets, without exception, were all at least superior-grade second-rank, with the highest reaching the top of second-rank.


    Among them, there was a heavy-armored puppet, a flying puppet, and two ranged puppets equipped with bows and arrows.


    Such a lineup could go toe-to-toe with a Fake Dan Immortal in peak condition.


    "You... You can control so many puppets at once?"


    Tan Immortal was utterly horrified, his heart filled with unprecedented despair.


    Only a puppet master at the quasi-third rank could simultaneously control this many superior-grade second-rank puppets, allowing them to operate in an organized and flexible manner.


    Lan Chang''an''s puppet mastery had not quite reached the level of a true third-rank puppet master¡ªhe was still a bit short of the mark, mainly because he hadn''t had enough opportunities to practice.


    However, his spiritual sense was powerful, at least at the Fake Dan level, and he had reached the quasi-third rank level in puppet control technique.


    Under the coordinated assault of the four puppets, Tan Immortal was struggling. He summoned a supreme-grade magical weapon and activated some talismans, barely holding on.


    "He''s so weakened that he can''t even control a magical treasure properly."


    Lan Chang''an noted inwardly.


    Tan Immortal''s strength had fallen far below that of a Fake Dan Immortal, and using his mana would only elerate the eruption of the poison in his body.


    If not for a few quasi-third-rank talismans, including a talismanic treasure, he would''ve already been overrun by the puppets.


    Lan Chang''an remained cautious, keeping his distance and letting the puppets handle the frontline battle.


    "Lan! Chang! An!"


    At the final moment, Tan Immortal spat out a mouthful of toxic blood, his face suddenly showing a hint of healthy redness.


    He opened his bloodshot, purple-ck eyes, exuding a terrifying Fake Dan-level spiritual pressure, almost returning to his peak state.


    "A life-forcing secret technique?" Lan Chang''an''s expression shifted as he quickly summoned a turtle-shell puppet with defensive capabilitiesparable to a quasi-third-rank, cing it in front of him.


    Boom! Crash!


    Tan Immortal once again controlled his magical treasure, the ancient ruler, and unleashed all of his remaining talismans and talismanic treasure in one go, instantly destroying the three puppets at the forefront.


    Seeing this, Lan Chang''an decisivelymanded thest flying puppet to rush forward and self-destruct. The fierce explosion of fragments and firelight engulfed Tan Immortal.


    rg!


    Tan Immortal spat out another mouthful of blood, the poison in his body erupting further, causing his momentum to falter. With bloodshot eyes, he charged at Lan Chang''an, determined to do as much damage as possible¡ªeven if it meant mutual destruction.


    "The end of a strong crossbow."


    Lan Chang''an remained expressionless, flipping his hand to reveal a treasure talisman engraved with cold frost patterns, which he activated with his mana.


    Hiss!


    Tan Immortal, who was rushing forward in madness, felt a bone-chilling cold.


    Whoosh! Boom¡ª


    In an instant, a massive blue frost wave, like a swirling waterfall, swallowed everything in his field of vision.


    Tan Immortal roared in fury, but his movements froze as his entire body became encased in frost.


    His dimly lit magical treasure, the ruler, was also covered in ayer of blue ice. It shook in mid-air, only a few zhang away from Lan Chang''an, before tumbling to the ground with a crisp crack.


    "Lan Chang''an... you cowardly turtle..."


    Tan Immortal, frozen solid, used his spiritual sense to send out his final words, filled with extreme resentment and unwillingness.


    Even in death, he hadn''te close to touching the hem of Lan Chang''an''s robe.


    Crack!


    The frozen body of the Immortal fell to the ground, shattering like a porcin figure.


    ...


    In front of the six-sided pavilion.


    Shi Manrong shivered involuntarily, ncing toward the riverbank and bridge.


    "Lan Chang''an..."


    At that moment, she sensed a True Dan-level surge of spiritual power, terrifying beyond words, it made her heart race.


    Due to the limitations of her spiritual sense, she couldn''t clearly see the distant battle.


    After a short while.


    A familiar young figure leisurely flew back.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, was everything resolved smoothly?"


    Shi Manrong let out a sigh of relief, seeing that Lan Chang''an was unharmed.


    "Solved!"


    Lan Chang''an smiled with a sense of relief.


    "Fortunately, Tan Immortal''s injuries from the poison were severe. He could only unleash one or two full-power attacks. Otherwise, even a low-grade third-rank talisman wouldn''t have been enough to take his life."


    Not long ago, Lan Chang''an had used an ice spell treasure talisman that had been nurtured for decades.


    The talisman was made from the earliest batch of second-rank superior-grade spirit wood. Its potency exceeded the limits of its materials, making itparable to a low-grade third-rank talisman.


    Treasure talismans, using talisman to nurture treasure, was a nearly lost art in the talisman world.


    Lan Chang''an had drawn upon his past life''s knowledge and had started scheming from the time he had just entered the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    Through decades of consistent daily nurturing, using his Evergreen mana, the results had been quite impressive.


    The only regret in defeating Tan Immortal was that due to the intense battle, his storage pouch had burst open, and most of his belongings were destroyed.


    Fortunately, the most valuable ck Ruler magical treasure had only suffered minor damage.


    There was also an exceptional defensive magical item and a few quasi-third-rank ore materials that remained intact.


    Unlike Hu Immortal, who Lan Chang''an had ambushed and killed earlier, leaving his storage pouchpletely unscathed.


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself: It''s still better to y it safe; fewer losses and higher gains.


    ...


    "Ugh... so cold!"


    Seemingly affected by the lingering ice spell, Lady Wei gradually woke up, her face pale.


    "Senior Lan, did you save me?"


    Lady Wei, enduring the pain from her injuries, soon realized she had been ced under a restriction, forcing a bitter smile.


    What terrified her was that aside from Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi, there were no other cultivators in sight.


    The lingering chill in the distance made her heart tremble with fear.


    "Tan Immortal..."


    "At this moment, there are only the three of us left in this ancient ruin," Lan Chang''an confirmed, verifying her suspicions.


    If it had been any other Foundation Establishment cultivator achieving such a feat, Lady Wei would have been shocked beyond belief.


    But given her master''s previous mention of a mysterious figure, she epted it as a matter of course.


    "Senior Lan spared my life, do you have any orders?"


    Lady Wei asked respectfully.


    "I have some questions for you," Lan Chang''an replied, satisfied with her cooperation, which saved him much trouble.


    "Senior Lan, feel free to ask. I will answer everything to the best of my knowledge."


    Lady Wei didn''t attempt to bargain.


    "Does anyone else know about this ancient ruin aside from your group?"


    This was a matter of concern not just for Lan Chang''an but even more so for Fairy Shi.


    The ruin still had unexplored areas, and many of the remaining array formations and restrictions were of great value for Shi Manrong''s studies and future breakthroughs.


    "For the most part, the secret hasn¡¯t been leaked, but I can''t guarantee it withplete certainty," Lady Wei paused before exining further.


    ording to her, Tan Immortal had been a traitor of the me Departing Pce, who had been hunted by his sect. He had burned through life-saving third-rank talismans to escape into the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    In a fit of anger, Tan Immortal had sought refuge with the demonic sect, eventually getting in touch with Lady Wei after some twists and turns.


    As one of Liang Shaotian''s personal disciples, bringing in an Immortal-level traitor like Tan Immortal would have been considered a significant contribution to the demonic sect.


    During their journey, the two hade across Hu Immortal and two Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The discovery of the ancient ruin had been a stroke of luck, stumbled upon by the two Foundation Establishment cultivators while fleeing, which had attracted Hu Immortal, who was hunting nearby.


    One of the Foundation Establishment cultivators, a high-nosed young man, was an enforcer from the Liuyun Sect, the leading sect in the northern region of the Liang Kingdom.


    Coincidentally, Tan Immortal and Hu Immortal had known each other in the past. Upon discovering the ruin, they had immediately restrained all the nearby Foundation Establishment cultivators and sealed off the area.


    "At first, I didn''t think much of this ruin. I thought it was simply the legacy of a third-rank formation master or perhaps some True Dan force. I never expected it to be so difficult to conquer, nor that it seemed to have been explored by others before..."


    Lady Wei recounted the whole story.


    Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi exchanged nces and slightly shook their heads.


    The exposure of this ancient ruin was inevitable.


    Even though the two Immortals had blocked any news from getting out, the people involved were of considerable status, and their backgrounds were significant.


    Tan Immortal and the high-nosed Foundation Establishment cultivator were from the top two sects in the Liang Kingdom.


    Lady Wei was from the demonic sect and was a personal disciple of Liang Shaotian.


    Besides the human cultivators, this ce was located deep within the ck Fog Mountain Range, where many demonic beasts roamed.


    Several groups of human cultivators had alreadye here, and past battles might have caught the attention of some intelligent beasts.


    "By the way, I left a soulmp at the demonic sect''s main altar. If I were to die, my master or senior brother could lock onto a general area."


    Lady Wei added cautiously.


    "I''m not threatening you, Senior Lan. It''s just that if something were to happen to me, my master would definitely send people to investigate, and this ruin would be exposed."


    Lan Chang''an''s expression remained unreadable as he said, "Since you''re being so cooperative, I''ll let you live."


    "Thank you, Senior, for your mercy. I''ll ept whatever decision you make."


    Lady Wei bowed low in gratitude.


    Shi Manrong was slightly surprised. This Lady Wei, as Liang Shaotian''s disciple, had been cold and arrogant when they first met, but now she waspletely devoid of pride, obediently calling Lan Chang''an "Senior" without a hint of rebellion.


    "Fairy Shi and I have gained significant opportunities here. We don''t want any outsiders to know the details. You will open your sea of consciousness and allow me to erase your recent memories."


    Lan Chang''an''s tone was firm, leaving no room for negotiation.


    If the target cooperated, it would not be difficult for him, with his Fake Dan-level spiritual sense, to precisely erase a Foundation Establishment cultivator''s recent memories.


    "Please proceed, Senior Lan."


    Lady Wei didn''t hesitate and closed her eyes.


    Lan Chang''an extended his index finger and touched Lady Wei''s forehead, activating a secret technique from his past life to manipte the sea of consciousness.


    Erasing memories was easier than restoring them, especially when the memories were recent and still shallow.


    Older memories would be more deeply buried in the sea of consciousness, and attempting to erase them with precision would be ten times more difficult.


    Unless it was a violent erasure that would heavily damage the sea of consciousness and turn the target into an idiot.


    After a few moments, Lan Chang''an withdrew his finger, his spiritual sense somewhat depleted.


    Lady Wei''s forehead was drenched in sweat, her robes soaked through, and at one point, she had fainted from the process.


    "On ount of Liang Shaotian, I''ll spare your life."


    Lan Chang''an stood with his hands behind his back, his voice calm.


    "Where... where am I?"


    Lady Wei stood dazed for a moment, looking around.


    At this point, all she could vaguely recall was encountering Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi outside the ancient ruin a few months ago.


    Beyond that, her mind was aplete nk regarding what had happened after they entered the ruin.


    Lan Chang''an''s technique for erasing memories could only go so far. More distant memories were often deeply rooted in the sea of consciousness.


    In any case, the ruin''s exposure was a matter of time. As long as Lady Wei didn¡¯t return to the demonic sect too soon, the secret could be maintained for a while longer.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t bother exining and gave Fairy Shi a knowing nce.


    ...


    Seven dayster.


    Under Fairy Shi''s lead, the three returned to the passage that led back to the surface from the ancient ruin.


    Lan Chang''an stood at the entrance of the passage, while Fairy Shi and Lady Wei remained on the other side of the ruin.


    Lady Wei''s injuries were severe, and it would take at least a year or more for her to recover. Now, with Fairy Shi cing restrictions on her, Lady Wei was merely assisting with various tasks inside the ruin.


    "Fairy Shi, although there are still some opportunities here, you must not stay for too long."


    Lan Chang''an advised.


    It turned out that Fairy Shi nned to stay in the ancient ruin for another two months to study its array formations and restrictions, hoping to speed up her advancement to the third-rank formation master level.


    The jade slip she had obtained from the treasure vault contained formation inheritance that was directly rted to many of the formations and restrictions within the ruin.


    It was a third-rank top-grade, possibly even quasi-fourth-rank, formation inheritance.


    When Fairy Shi obtained this formation inheritance, she was very satisfied with it and even made a copy of it for Lan Chang''an.


    This level of formation inheritance was something Lan Chang''an, in his three lifetimes, had nevere across. It was indeed a precious find.


    A few days ago, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong had searched the explored areas of the ruin, attempting to find other tokens but to no avail.


    Hu Immortal''s token had been swallowed by the ancient formation or perhaps reimed by the ruin itself, and it too could not be found.


    To avoid unnecessary risks, Lan Chang''an decided to leave the ruin as soon as possible.


    Back in the Liang Kingdom, there was still one final task rted to his Core Formation preparations.


    He needed to meet Zhang Tieshan to trade for the Core Dissolution Technique.


    Before venturing into the ancient ruin, Lan Chang''an had mentally prepared for the possibility of failure.


    The Core Dissolution Technique was his backup n, as repeatedly "melting the core back to liquid" and refining it anew could theoretically greatly enhance the quality of his Core.


    Once this matter was resolved, Lan Chang''an would begin preparations to leave the war-torn cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, rest assured. Once I be a third-rank formation master andbine that with my understanding of this ruin, even if a True Dan Immortales, they won''t be able to do anything to me."


    Fairy Shi spoke confidently, her voice filled with self-assurance.


    "Fairy Shi, take care. I will take my leave now."


    Lan Chang''an smiled warmly, and with a final solemn bow he turned to enter the passage leading back to the surface.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, be careful on your journey."


    Fairy Shi was puzzled, bowing in return.


    Given their close rtionship, such formal goodbyes were rare between them.


    Moreover, Shi Manrong would be able to return to Wuqi Mountain within just a few months.


    Watching Lan Chang''an''s lone figure as he left, Shi Manrong furrowed her brows slightly, deep in thought, sensing something she couldn''t quite put into words.


    Though she faintly sensed something, she could not foresee:


    This parting would bring changes as vast as the sea turning into mulberry fields.

 Chapter 213: Journey on the Profound Water Turtle

    In the swamp valley, under the cover of a third-rank concealment formation, a stone gate creaked open, revealing the silhouette of a man in ck robes.


    ¡°The concealment formation is intact.¡±


    Lan Chang''an scanned the surroundings, observing the poisonous swamp, the vast mountains, and the eerie silence.


    asionally, a terrifying beast¡¯s roar echoed from the misty depths of the mountains.


    On his way back to the surface, Lan Chang''an had already extended his spiritual sense to probe the area, confirming that there was nothing unusual for the surrounding few li.


    Before leaving, he checked the storage pouches on his person, making sure that the restrictions were still in ce.


    He reinforced the istion seals on the storage pouch containing the greatest prize of this trip¡ªthe Xuanmu Vine.


    Over the past few days, Lan Chang''an had pondered over it and suspected that Tinghai Pavilion¡¯s refuge back then might have been rted to this vine.That was why he was being so cautious.


    Half a day ago, he had ced severalyers of istion seals on the porcin vat that held the Xuanmu Vine and the Five Element Earth.


    During this process, when his hand had brushed against the small, withered gourd on the vine, the Nine Seal Stele in his mind had trembled slightly, emitting a faint grayish-white light. It was the same precursor that had urred when he absorbed the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu.


    Lan Chang''an instinctively restrained himself and quickly withdrew his hand, causing the Nine Seal Stele to settle down.


    It was clear to him now that the Xuanmu Vine contained a certain quality that the Nine Seal Stele could absorb.


    Perhaps, like the split Gu from the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, it could elerate the unlocking of the stele¡¯s Fourth Life.


    This discovery delighted and surprised Lan Chang''an.


    It gave him even more reason to nurture the withered Xuanmu Vine.


    Even if the vine¡¯s cultivation didn¡¯t meet his expectations, it could at least serve as some kind of "nourishment" for the Nine Seal Stele.


    At present, the vine¡¯s life force was too weak, and Lan Chang''an estimated that it wouldn¡¯t speed up the unlocking of the Fourth Life by much.


    ¡°When I return to Little Turtle Peak, I can use the Shadowstone to create an istingyer.¡±


    Lan Chang''an made a mental note.


    The Xuanmu Vine had been stored in the ancient ruin for so long without being tracked down by the enemies of Tinghai Pavilion, so he didn¡¯t worry too much about being hunted because of it.


    His primary concern was preventing high-level cultivators from identally discovering it.


    Finally, Lan Chang''an activated his Evergreen Technique, allowing a subtle wave of energy to cloak his entire body, greatly diminishing his presence.


    Whoosh!


    His figure turned into a shadow, leaping out of the third-rank concealment formation and flying low through the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Despite his current strength, Lan Chang''an still didn¡¯t dare to fly openly through the skies of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    ...


    A monthter.


    Lan Chang''an returned to Wuqi Mountain.


    Before entering Little Turtle Peak, he swept his spiritual sense over the area and was slightly surprised by what he sensed.


    In just a few months, the gatekeeper Qi Feng and his maid Lan Rou had developed an unusually close rtionship.


    However, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t care much about this.


    His n to flee the country didn¡¯t involve taking his adoptive father¡¯s descendants with him.


    Lan Chang''an called the two over and asked a few simple questions.


    During the few months he¡¯d been away, the sect had issued a batch of talisman-drawing tasks, for which Lan Chang''an had prepared six months¡¯ worth of stock.


    During that time, Qi Feng and Lan Rou had handled the tasks without any issues.


    ¡°The sect has increased the number of missions again.¡±


    From this, Lan Chang''an inferred that the pressure on the frontlines had intensified.


    Although Wuqi Mountain was far from the frontlines, the region was starting to show signs of chaos.


    Afterward, Lan Chang''an reviewed a few letters, confirming his suspicions.


    On the frontlines, the sects of the Liang Kingdom were at a disadvantage, struggling under significant pressure.


    The only good news was that they had the home-field advantage, and there had been no catastrophic defeats.


    However, the hearnd of the Liang Kingdom was now facing infiltration by enemy cultivators from neighboring nations.


    Spies from the Feng Kingdom had infiltrated the rear, gathering intelligence, sabotaging supplies, and attempting to turn local cultivation forces against their own country.


    Sects were conducting strict inspections, raiding major marketces, cultivation families, and individual cultivator territories, creating widespread panic.


    Wartime order couldn¡¯t bepared to peacetime.


    Many medium and small cultivation factions, even if not guilty, found themselves forced to offer bribes to avoid trouble.


    Those few factions caught "coborating with the enemy" all loudly protested their innocence, but none were spared.


    How many were actually guilty, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t say.


    Fortunately, Wuqi Mountain was strong, and Lan Chang''an¡¯s connections with the elders of Jin Yun Valley spared him from much of the trouble.


    ...


    In the secret room of his cave mansion on Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an began sorting through the spoils from the ancient ruin.


    During his time in the ruin, he had only screened out suspicious items, but now he was taking the time to catalog everything.


    ¡°Xuanmu Vine, its grade might surpass the Nascent Soul True Monarch level, though its exact use is unknown. I¡¯ll have to look up more ancient texts in the future.¡±


    ¡°One vat and two jars of Five Element Soil.¡±


    ¡°A jade slip containing formation inheritance close to fourth-rank. This kind of inheritance is a rare and precious resource, even for cultivation families with thousands of years of history.¡±


    ¡°Two low-grade magic treasures. Tan Immortal¡¯s ruler is a high-quality item of this grade, enough for use by early True Dan cultivators.¡±


    ¡°One superior-grade third-rank demon core, its demonic power has severely deteriorated but remains a rare and valuable material.¡±


    ¡°Onerge chunk of superior-grade third-rank Shadowstone, capable of concealing spiritual energy and blocking spiritual sense, perfect for crafting stealth and shadow-based magical treasures.¡±


    ¡°A deteriorated third-rank poison, effective even against Fake Dan Immortals.¡±


    ¡°Tworge vats of Spiritual Spring Water.¡±


    ¡°Formation inheritance notes from Hu Immortal.¡±


    ¡°Six or seven pieces of third-rank and quasi-third-rank materials.¡±


    ¡°Twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones¡ªunfortunately, Tan Immortal¡¯s storage pouch was destroyed...¡±


    Lan Chang''an only bothered to count the spoils of superior-grade second-rank and above.


    Common second-rank pills, materials, even supreme-grade magical weapons, and other misceneous items held little attraction for him now.


    ¡°Hm? This is... a special demon core that can be used as a primary material for a Foundation Establishment Pill?¡±


    As he carefully inventoried the spoils, Lan Chang''an made a new discovery.


    Among the spoils were two mid-to-superior-grade second-rank demon cores, one of which came from a demon beast with an earth-grade bloodline.


    Back in the day, Lan Chang''an had risked his life entering the ck Fog Mountain Range with Zhao Siyao to obtain a special demon core for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Now, after killing two Fake Dan Immortals, he had casually obtained two of them.


    Among the many spoils, this didn¡¯t seem particrly remarkable, and to Lan Chang''an, it no longer held the same allure as it once did.


    There were several other simr items, such as superior-grade second-rank beast pelts.


    ...


    After tallying the spoils, Lan Chang''an retrieved therge vat filled with Five Element Soil.


    The withered gourd vine nted in the soil showed no changes in its life force, but at least it hadn¡¯t deteriorated further.


    During his return, Lan Chang''an had watered the vine with spiritual spring water or nourished it with Evergreen mana every day.


    He had confirmed that the Evergreen mana was as effective, if not more so, than the spiritual spring water from the small ruin space.


    This was one of the key reasons he had sessfully transnted the vine.


    However, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t be expected to maintain the constant care of nurturing treasure talismans or the vine every single day.


    For the vine to grow better, it couldn¡¯t be left in a storage pouch indefinitely¡ªit needed to take root in actual soil.


    To this end, Lan Chang''an decided to have the Profound Water Turtle assist him.


    As a water- and wood-attribute creature, its innate ability to manipte clouds and rain far surpassed that of most spiritual nt caretakers of the same cultivation level.


    Typically, when the Profound Water Turtle watered the mountain, it held back its full power.


    After a few days of experimenting, Lan Chang''an found that if the Profound Water Turtle used its innate cloud rain spell at full force for just one hour each day, it could replicate the effect of the spiritual spring water.


    Increasing the dose further yielded no additional benefits.


    Lan Chang''an nodded to himself. This task could asionally be delegated to the Profound Water Turtle.


    The turtle was more than happy to oblige. The withered gourd vine seemed to have an instinctive attraction to it.


    Each time after nourishing the vine, the Profound Water Turtle appeared to be in a state of bliss.


    At one point, Lan Chang''an even suspected that the turtle was benefiting from the process.


    However, after careful observation, he found no evidence of any change.


    ¡°Oh well...¡±


    Unable to figure it out, Lan Chang''an decided to stop worrying about it.


    For the next couple of months, he assigned the task to the Profound Water Turtle.


    In the meantime, Lan Chang''an focused on refining and processing some Shadowstone to create a newyer of concealing material.


    As a puppet master, the process of refining materials was not difficult for him.


    Though, with his Foundation Establishment-level spiritual fire, refining superior-grade third-rank Shadowstone was still quite taxing and time-consuming.


    Fortunately, with his longsting spiritual power from the Evergreen Technique, he had the stamina for it.


    After nearly two months, Lan Chang''an had crafted a half-inch thick sheet of metal leather using the Shadowstone as the primary material, along with some special beast hide.


    This metal leather had a dull, unassuming appearance.


    By attaching it to a storage pouch or lining the walls of a secret room, it could block spiritual sense scans from True Dan Immortal.


    As for Nascent Soul True Monarchs, it probably wouldn¡¯t work against them, but the Liang Kingdom only had one such powerhouse in its entire cultivation world.


    Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t even have the opportunity to meet someone of that level, let alone be targeted by one.


    And even if he did encounter a Nascent Soul True Monarch, as long as they didn¡¯t focus their attention on him, he should be fine.


    Being a reincarnated cultivator with many secrets, Lan Chang''an had always avoided interacting with cultivators of that caliber, even in his previous life at the Core Formation Realm.


    Back then, despiteing into contact with a Nascent Soul True Monarch, the secret of the Nine Seal Stele had remained undiscovered.


    This time around, things were moreplicated. The Evergreen Technique, an ancient cultivation art, had an unusual origin and might be noticed by a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Therefore, when choosing a nation to form his core in, Lan Chang''an preferred one without a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    If he ended up forming a Gray Dan, it wouldn¡¯t matter much.


    But if he managed to form a True Dan, especially if the quality of the dan was good, he might attract the attention of a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    With this in mind, the Jing Kingdom seemed the most suitable option among the surrounding cultivation nations.


    Jing Kingdom was a trade-oriented nation, known for its neutrality over the centuries. There was said to be a special reason behind this stability.


    ...


    One day.


    Two months after returning to Wuqi Mountain, Lan Chang''an began harvesting the high-grade, long-aged medicinal herbs he had nted on the mountain.


    When he had first settled on Little Turtle Peak, Lan Chang''an had nted a batch of herbs and spiritual trees, many of which required long years to mature to their highest value.


    Of course, he couldn¡¯t be too obvious about it.


    He only transnted the most valuable, long-aged nts.


    He left behind the lower-value and ordinary spiritual trees and herbs on Little Turtle Peak.


    Even the portion he transnted would be considered a fortunerge enough to make ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator envious.


    With the help of the Earth Burrowing Rat, a third-rank earth-elemental demon beast, Lan Chang''an finished the entire transntation in just one day.


    The quasi-third-rank mountain-protecting formation had already been disassembled. He left behind only some parts of the outer formation, which functioned at the level of a mid-grade second-rank formation.


    To any cultivators from the outside, unless they were second-rank formation masters, it would be impossible to notice any differences.


    ...


    Everything was ready.


    The next morning, Lan Chang''an sought out Qi Feng for a private conversation.


    ¡°Grandpa Lan, how long will you be gone this time?¡±


    Qi Feng was somewhat surprised.


    Given that the Liang Kingdom was embroiled in a cultivation war, the outside world was in turmoil, and Wuqi Mountain was one of the few sanctuaries left.


    Furthermore, Lan Chang''an had harvested all the valuable herbs from the mountain overnight.


    It was hard not to make certain assumptions.


    ¡°I¡¯m going out to pursue a chance for Core Formation. I may return in six months, or it could take longer. It¡¯s hard to say...¡±


    Lan Chang''an exined that he had harvested the herbs in order to gather resources to n for Core Formation and purchase a magical treasure prototype.


    Whether or not the outside world believed him, he didn¡¯t care.


    ¡°I¡¯ve left a letter in the study. If I don¡¯t return within six months, or if you encounter any trouble, open it.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was serious as he gave his instructions.


    ¡°Yes, Grandpa Lan.¡±


    Qi Feng hesitated, unsure of what else to say.


    At that moment, he felt as though Grandpa Lan were "making arrangements for the future," and it left him with aplicated feeling.


    As a loose cultivator who had wandered the world for years, he had finally found a peaceful ce to cultivate, under the care of a senior.


    Now, it seemed as though all of that was about to be taken away.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Little Turtle Peak is rented for another decade. Even if I don¡¯t return soon, it won¡¯t affect your cultivation.¡±


    Seeing his unease, Lan Chang''an smiled faintly, offering some reassurance.


    Hearing this, Qi Feng sighed with relief and hurriedly thanked him.


    In addition to the letter, Lan Chang''an had also left behind a simple cultivation manual for his adoptive father¡¯s descendant, along with thest Foundation Establishment Pill he had saved from years ago.


    ¡°Grandpa Lan...¡±


    Qi Feng wanted to say something else.


    Lan Chang''an waved his sleeve and gestured toward the lotus-filled pond.


    ...


    Ssh!


    A massive dark-green turtle leaped out of the water, surging into the sky with waves of blue rippling beneath its feet.


    The shadow of therge turtle made Qi Feng, who was at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, feel a strong sense of oppression.


    The serene and elegant figure of the white-robed man floated down onto the back of the Profound Water Turtle, standing with his hands behind his back as the turtle soared through the air, cutting through the waves like a figure from a legend.


    Qi Feng and Lan Rou were left in a daze.


    Chitter chitter!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat rushed out from its burrow, leaping onto the back of the turtle just before it left.


    Whoosh!


    The Profound Water Turtle, nearly two zhang wide, propelled by blue light, carried one man and one beast as it left the peak that had been Lan Chang''an¡¯s home for seventy years.


    Thismotion caught the attention of Ye Fei, from the nearby Little Pill Peak.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, where are you going, riding your turtle?¡±


    Ye Fei was shocked.


    He had often seen the Profound Water Turtle, a beast with an earth-grade bloodline, lounging on Little Turtle Peak like a mascot.


    However, seeing Lan Chang''an actually riding it out on a journey was a first.


    There was no question that something unusual was happening.


    ¡°Haha, I¡¯m going to visit some friends and seek an opportunity for Core Formation. Fellow Daoist Ye, take care.¡±


    Lan Chang''an chuckled, turning his head to cup his hands in salute.


    He took onest look at the angr, sharp-featured, middle-aged Ye Fei.


    ¡°Take care, Fellow Daoist Lan.¡±


    Ye Fei was momentarily stunned but returned the salute.


    At this moment.


    Many cultivators from Wuqi Mountain watched as the Profound Water Turtle rode the waves into the air, carrying the calm,posed figure of Lan Chang''an in white robes. He gradually disappeared into the fog of the mountain¡¯s protective formation.


    Suddenly, Ye Fei¡¯s heart stirred, and his expression shifted.


    ¡°Turtles aren¡¯t known for speed, but they excel in endurance and are perfect for long journeys, not to mention howfortable they are to ride.¡±


    ¡°Is Fellow Daoist Lan... preparing for a long journey on his turtle!?¡±

 Chapter 214: Cultivators from Feng Kingdom

    A few dayster.


    A massive dark-green turtle skimmed across the water and flew toward Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market.


    ¡°The situation doesn¡¯t look good.¡±


    Sitting cross-legged on the turtle''s broad back was a refined, handsome man dressed in white robes. Lan Chang''an observed the deste, nearly ruined market below.


    Lan Chang''an was heading to Jin Yun Valley to find Zhang Tieshan and negotiate for the Core Dissolution Technique.


    Although Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market, and the Mu Family by Feiyue Lake, were not on his direct path, they were in roughly the same direction.


    Before leaving Liang Kingdom, Lan Chang''an nned to visit these familiar ces and see an old friend from his younger days, Li Erqing.


    Lan Chang''an had spent more than ten years cultivating at Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market when he was in the mid Qi-Refining stage. He had guarded a shop there, quietly drawing talismans and umting a solid foundation.It was in this market where he had his first romantic encounter with a female cultivator, sharing a beautiful and fleeting rtionship.


    The prosperity of the auction back then was vivid in his mind.


    Even the Profound Water Turtle was sessfully hatched in this very market.


    ¡°Could you be Senior Lan...?¡±


    A man in green robes, at the early Foundation Establishment stage, cautiously gazed at Lan Chang''an from inside the remnants of a second-rank formation that surrounded the market.


    ¡°You know of me?¡±


    Standing a hundred zhang away, Lan Chang''an nced at the man who didn¡¯t dare to exit the formation. He guessed this was the market¡¯s guardian cultivator.


    ¡°My name is Zhao Gang. I¡¯m a newly promoted Foundation Establishment cultivator from Jin Yun Valley. When I was younger, I once saw Senior Lan at Huanglong Immortal City.¡±


    The green-robed Foundation Establishment cultivator spoke respectfully, positioning himself as a junior.


    Although both were Foundation Establishment cultivators, there was a vast difference in their strength and status.


    Lan Chang''an was almost a century older than him, so it was perfectly natural to address him as ¡°Senior.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s happened recently in Bamboo Leaf Mountain?¡±


    Lan Chang''an asked casually.


    The shops in the market were mostly destroyed, and scorch marks and dried blood were visible everywhere.


    ¡°Replying to Senior Lan, not long ago, the Maple Leaf Huang Family was wiped out in a night raid by enemy cultivators from Feng Kingdom, leading to the further copse of Bamboo Leaf Mountain Market. It was ransacked by rogue cultivators and others from nearby.¡±


    ¡°After that, enforcers from the sects arrived and restored order. Currently, the market is guarded by myself and Foundation Establishment cultivators from nearby cultivation families,¡± the green-robed cultivator exined the events that led to the destruction.


    ¡°Cultivators from Feng Kingdom are running wild even this deep into our territory?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone turned cold with anger.


    Although the area around Bamboo Leaf Mountain wasn¡¯t the hearnd of the Liang Kingdom, it was still well within the interior and far from the frontlines.


    ¡°Sigh, the main issue is that the frontlines are strained. The major sects are trying their best to hold the enemies off, but inevitably, some slip through.¡±


    The green-robed cultivator smiled wryly.


    Lan Chang''an already understood the reason behind this.


    About a month ago, on the frontlines, Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects had suffered another minor defeat, creating several openings in their defenses.


    Now, small groups of elite enemy cultivators had infiltrated the Liang Kingdom, striking at the rear to plunder wealth and resources.


    They specifically targeted mid- to small-sized cultivation families, spiritual veins, spiritual vein sites, and poorly-guarded markets.


    These small groups of enemy elite cultivators, mostly at the Foundation Establishment stage, spread out to disrupt the Liang Kingdom¡¯s logistics and create chaos.


    Having grasped the situation, Lan Chang''an prepared to leave and head toward Feiyue Lake.


    Seeing his intent to leave, the green-robed cultivator, looking anxious, bowed deeply and requested:


    ¡°Senior Lan, the sect¡¯s forces are tied up at the frontlines. We are severelycking enforcers in this area. I humbly request your assistance in guarding this region. I believe the elders of Jin Yun Valley would not fail to reward you generously.¡±


    ¡°I have urgent matters to attend to. I¡¯m afraid I cannot help.¡±


    Lan Chang''an refused without hesitation.


    On his journey, he had already encountered sect patrols several times, and this was not the first time he had turned down such requests.


    He had even seen ordinary, lone cultivators being forcibly conscripted by the sect.


    As ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator with a strong reputation, Lan Chang''an¡¯s turtle mount alone was enough to deter sect enforcers from troubling him.


    Besides his connections with sect elders, the enforcers he encountered along the way were mostly weaker than him and treated him with courtesy and respect.


    Seeing Lan Chang''an decline, the green-robed Foundation Establishment cultivator was slightly disappointed but quickly understood, recalling the stories he had heard about the reclusive "Turtle Talisman Master."


    ¡°Senior Lan, perhaps you might be willing to sell us some talismans?¡±


    The man had a sh of inspiration and proposed.


    ¡°That can be arranged.¡±


    This time, Lan Chang''an nodded, agreeing.


    A short whileter, another Foundation Establishment cultivator from the market flew out to join them.


    The two Foundation Establishment cultivators made a deal with Lan Chang''an, purchasing a dozen or so of his lesser-quality second-rank talismans.


    In addition, they bought a slightly damaged mid-grade second-rank puppet.


    Nowadays, Lan Chang''an rarely carried puppets below superior-grade second-rank.


    Before leaving Wuqi Mountain, he did not take away the batch of early puppets that were always on guard at Little Turtle Peak, which included two second-rank puppets.


    These would help protect Qi Feng during his vulnerable pre-Foundation Establishment period.


    ...


    ¡°By the way, is Elder Zhang currently in Jin Yun Valley?¡±


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an asked.


    In recent months, he had written letters to Zhang Tieshan, expressing his intent to visit, but he hadn¡¯t received any replies.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that Zhang Tieshan was on the frontlines and had never received the letters.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. I left the sect two months ago and didn¡¯t see Elder Zhang at that time.¡±


    The green-robed cultivator¡¯s gaze flickered, giving a vague reply.


    Lan Chang''an understood. As a sect disciple, the man likely wasn¡¯t allowed to reveal the whereabouts of high-ranking members.


    Lan Chang''an flew off on his turtle, deep in thought.


    ¡°It seems Zhang Tieshan is indeed not in Jin Yun Valley recently, likely serving on the frontlines orpleting an external mission.¡±


    Lan Chang''an felt a headacheing on. Even if he went to Jin Yun Valley, he might not be able to meet Zhang Tieshan anytime soon.


    Going to the frontlines to find him?


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t foolish enough to do that and immediately dismissed the idea.


    As ate-stage Foundation Establishment talisman master, going to the frontlines would be like feeding himself to the wolves.


    He would most likely be conscripted by the sect elders.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait for six months at most.¡±


    Lan Chang''an quickly made up his mind.


    Sects often rotated their cultivators on the frontlines. If someone was injured too severely, they might return to the sect to recover and take on duties guarding the rear.


    Zhang Tieshan had been on the frontlines for quite some time, so there was a decent chance he would return within six months.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an could also ask his acquaintances within the sect to send a message to the frontlines, attempting to contact Zhang Tieshan.


    ...


    By midday, Lan Chang''an arrived at the shimmering waters of Feiyue Lake.


    It was the middle of the night, and the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake was heavily guarded, their defensive arrays fully activated.


    Before Lan Chang''an even approached, he detected the hidden vignce arrays.


    Any fluctuation in spiritual power near the Mu Family¡¯s territory would immediately alert them.


    By thekeside, Mu Family cultivators patrolled with serious expressions, not letting their guard down for a moment.


    Clearly, the recent annihtion of the Maple Leaf Huang Family had sent shockwaves through the region, putting the Mu Family on high alert.


    It wasn¡¯t just the Mu Family.


    With the sects¡¯ resources stretched thin, their control over the region had weakened significantly, leaving many local cultivation forces feeling vulnerable, fearing they might be the next target.


    ¡°The Mu Family¡¯s n-protecting formation was reinforced by Fairy Shi years ago. With proper defense, even a squad of enemy Foundation Establishment elites would find it difficult to breach it quickly.¡±


    After observing the situation for a while, Lan Chang''an nodded in approval.


    Compared to the nearby markets and cultivation families, the Mu Family¡¯s defensive arrays were far superior.


    Since it waste and a sensitive time, Lan Chang''an refrained from disturbing anyone.


    The next morning.


    Lan Chang''an, riding his Profound Water Turtle, formally visited the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    The person who came to greet him wasn¡¯t Li Erqing, but a familiar figure.


    ¡°Uncle Lan.¡±


    It was a graceful and familiar voice, tinged with a hint of surprise.


    Mu Bingyun, dressed in a loose ck robe, approached with a smile. Her appearance hadn¡¯t changed much; she still looked like she was in herte twenties, though more mature andposed.


    Her voice no longer carried the girlish tone of years past but instead had the poised and maic quality of an experienced female cultivator. Despite her calm demeanor, there was still the unmistakable dignity of a Foundation Establishment Ancestor in her bearing.


    ¡°Bingyun, you¡¯ve made significant progress.¡±


    As they drew closer, their eyes met, and Lan Chang''an maintained a calm smile.


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s emotions briefly fluctuated before she quickly regained herposure. She smiled gracefully, exchanging pleasantries with ease.


    ¡°The Profound Water Turtle has grown sorge that it can now carry people in flight?¡±


    Soon, Mu Bingyun¡¯s attention shifted to the massive turtle, her eyes sparkling with delight as she approached and stroked its huge head.


    The Profound Water Turtle recognized Mu Bingyun and affectionately nudged her hand.


    Afterward, Mu Bingyun climbed onto the turtle¡¯s back, and the two of them rode it back to Moonheart Ind, where her cave-dwelling was located.


    ¡°Li Erqing isn¡¯t at the family?¡±


    ¡°Uncle Erqing is patrolling the surrounding areas with Jin Yun Valley¡¯s enforcers, searching for enemy cultivators.¡±


    Through their conversation, Lan Chang''an learned that Mu Bingyun was currently the only Foundation Establishment cultivator guarding Feiyue Lake.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t in a rush to see Li Erqing.


    Since he would have to wait for Zhang Tieshan to return, staying as a guest at the Mu Family for a while wasn¡¯t a problem.


    In addition to defending the family, Mu Bingyun, a seasoned second-rank talisman master, also took on many talisman-drawing tasks for Jin Yun Valley.


    Thanks to her connection with Zhang Tieshan, neither of Feiyue Lake¡¯s Foundation Establishment cultivators had been sent to the frontlines, though many of the family¡¯s mid-tote-stage Qi-Refining members had been.


    Mu Bingyun had reached the Foundation Establishment sixth level, and through years of practice, she had already touched the threshold of a second-rank superior-grade talisman master.


    In her cave-dwelling, the two spent the morning chatting over tea, their conversation continuing until sunset.


    During this time, Mu Bingyun excused herself from all family duties.


    Lan Chang''an gave her a few pointers on cultivation and talisman-making, but nothing beyond what was appropriate for her current level.


    When night fell, Lan Chang''an got up to leave, not wishing to stay in Mu Bingyun¡¯s cave.


    ¡°Uncle Lan, there¡¯s no need to be so reserved. Back when I was attacked by the Night Fisherman, I stayed overnight in your cave-dwelling as well.¡±


    Mu Bingyun smiled warmly, her expression calm and poised.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. The Mu Family has plenty of guest rooms. As a Foundation Establishment ancestor, you should maintain your dignity and image.¡±


    Lan Chang''an waved her off with a smile.


    At that moment, he noticed the change in Mu Bingyun¡¯s demeanor. She no longer had the youthful uncertainty of a young girl and could now confidently manage her family¡¯s affairs, including her personal emotions.


    ¡°Then please stay as our guest for a few days at Feiyue Lake, Uncle Lan.¡±


    Mu Bingyun didn¡¯t insist and arranged for Lan Chang''an to stay in a private courtyard on Moonheart Ind.


    ...


    Over the next two weeks, Lan Chang''an stayed as a guest on Moonheart Ind.


    Because of his status, he only visited thekeside courtyard where he had lived during his Qi-Refining days once, just to reminisce.


    Mu Bingyun asionally came to visit him, but she always left before sunset.


    Even so, Lan Chang''an¡¯s Fake Dan-level spiritual sense asionally picked up some gossip from around the ind.


    Then, one day, Li Erqing finally returned to Feiyue Lake.


    ¡°Big Brother Lan!¡±


    The white-bearded Li Erqing rushed to Lan Chang''an¡¯s courtyard as soon as he returned to the family, unable to hide his excitement.


    It had been years since the war had cut off most contact between Lan Chang''an and the Mu Family, so Li Erqing hadn¡¯t seen him in a long time.


    Li Erqing looked much older now, well into his fifties. His smile deepened the lines on his face, his once plump features now more weathered and showing his age.


    Lan Chang''an realized that Li Erqing¡¯s prime years were behind him, and he was transitioning into old age.


    ¡°Erqing, you¡¯ve been supporting the Mu Family all these years without returning to the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain. That¡¯s impressive.¡±


    Lan Chang''an patted his shoulder, feeling proud of his old friend.


    ¡°Big Brother Lan, you haven¡¯t changed at all over the years.¡±


    Li Erqing gazed at the ageless, familiar figure of the white-robed man standing before him, a swirl ofplex emotions running through his heart.


    Not only had Lan Chang''an¡¯s appearance remained unchanged, but he had also reached thete-stage Foundation Establishment.


    Who would¡¯ve thought that back in the Qi-Refining stage, Li Erqing had once surpassed Lan Chang''an in cultivation and had even been the first to advance to Foundation Establishment?


    But now, Li Erqing was stuck at the peak of the early Foundation Establishment stage, unable to progress any further.


    ¡°s, if I had known earlier, Little Brother would also cultivate the life nurturing technique back then,¡± Li Erqingmented.


    ¡°Haha, staying young isn¡¯t just about cultivating a life nurturing technique. You need to maintain a good mindset and steadily improve your cultivation.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s easier said than done.¡±


    ¡°And of course, it also helps if you take a Youth Retaining Pill like your Big Brother did.¡±


    Lan Chang''an added with a smirk.


    Li Erqing: "..."


    In the courtyard¡¯s main hall.


    Lan Chang''an and Li Erqing talkedte into the night, reminiscing about the past, discussing their descendants, and worrying about the war.


    During the conversation, Li Erqing frequently mentioned the name Li Congren, unable to hide his pride.


    Lan Chang''an had to admit that Li Congren had indeed be quite capable.


    He had led a branch of the family to establish a stronghold in a remote, harshnd, creating a respectable cultivation family in just a few decades.


    The Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain had rooted itself in the northwest of the Liang Kingdom, forming close ties with the Beast Taming Zhou Family, while also building business rtionships with merchants from neighboring countries.


    When Lan Chang''an prepared to go to Jing Kingdom to form his core, he would need to rely on Li Congren¡¯s connections to make the journey easier.


    However, Lan Chang''an had not mentioned this to Li Congren in their correspondence, though he had hinted at it indirectly years ago.


    ...


    ¡°By the way, how is Mu Jiuan doing these days?¡±


    Lan Chang''an suddenly remembered Li Erqing¡¯s ninth son, Mu Jiuan, who had been taken as a disciple by a Core Formation cultivator in his youth andter joined the Golden Sun Sect of Feng Kingdom.


    Now, it was the Golden Sun Sect and its affiliated forces leading the invasion of the Liang Kingdom.


    Golden Sun Sect had two Nascent Soul True Monarchs and was one of the oldest sects in the neighboring cultivation nations.


    ¡°Jiuan, he...¡±


    Mentioning Mu Jiuan, Li Erqing¡¯s face clouded with hesitation.


    A sh of understanding passed through Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind.


    ¡°If it¡¯s difficult to talk about, you don¡¯t have to. I understand,¡± he said.


    After knowing Li Erqing for over a hundred years, there were many things he was willing to share with Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°This matter... I haven¡¯t told anyone else, not even Bingyun or Congren...¡±


    Li Erqing took a deep breath, as if making a decision, and set up a soundproofing barrier around them.


    He sensed that with Lan Chang''an¡¯s wisdom and experience, his friend had likely guessed part of the truth from his earlier reaction.


    Seeing this, Lan Chang''an added anotheryer of istion around them.


    ¡°Jiuan has infiltrated the Liang Kingdom. He contacted me in secret.¡±


    Li Erqing¡¯s voice was low, his forehead beaded with sweat as he revealed the long-held secret.


    Even though Lan Chang''an had suspected it, he couldn¡¯t help but be shocked!


    ¡°Jiuan said that Liang Kingdom is doomed to lose this war... and that I should make my decision soon.¡±


    ¡°Have you... given him an answer?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t hard to guess why Mu Jiuan had reached out to his father.


    ¡°Betraying Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world and colluding with enemy sects... I dare not do such a thing.¡±


    Releasing this long-held secret seemed to lift a great weight off Li Erqing¡¯s shoulders.


    His current decision was critical to the Mu Family¡¯s survival, and the pressure he was under was immense.


    If he chose to coborate with the enemy and bide his time, he could ensure the family¡¯s survival when the Golden Sun Sect arrived, possibly even receiving great rewards.


    But if he refused, Mu Jiuan might not have the ability to protect the entire Mu Family when the time came, and at best, he could only save his closest kin.


    If the Liang Kingdom sects discovered their betrayal, the Mu Family would face total annihtion.


    Lan Chang''an sighed, refraining frommenting on Li Erqing¡¯s choice.


    As an outsider, he couldn¡¯t offer any advice.


    No matter what choice was made, the risks and uncertainties were enormous.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    Lan Chang''an left Feiyue Lake, riding his turtle.


    The night before his departure.


    Lan Chang''an, Li Erqing, and Mu Bingyun had gathered in the family¡¯s forbidden grounds for a long and private discussion.


    Once again, Lan Chang''an made a deal with the Mu Family.


    This time, the transaction involved a quasi-third-rank talisman, a high-quality second-rank puppet, and one Youth Retaining Pill.


    The Youth Retaining Pill wasn¡¯t for Mu Bingyun, but as a possible offering for the future.


    If the day came when the Golden Sun Sect attacked, the Youth Retaining Pill, delivered through Mu Jiuan¡¯s connections, could be offered to curry favor with the sect¡¯s higher-ups.


    This was the only strategy Lan Chang''an had suggested, or rather, a fallback n.


    The transaction was priced at cost, and before leaving, Lan Chang''an quietly gifted Li Erqing a talismanic treasure.


    Ordinary talismanic treasures were no longer a significant asset to Lan Chang''an.


    Activating his magical treasure prototype or using his body refinement technique for a close-range strike could rival the power of most talismanic treasures.


    Years ago, Lan Chang''an had given Zhao Siyao a treasure talisman. To avoid drawing attention, this time he opted for a different approach.


    ...


    After flying thousands of li from Feiyue Lake.


    Lan Chang''an looked toward the direction of Jin Yun Valley, still a few days away. He wasn¡¯t sure if he¡¯d be able to contact Zhang Tieshan.


    ording to Li Erqing, Zhao Siyao was currently in Jin Yun Valley, preparing for Core Formation.


    As Lan Chang''an passed over a bay, a sudden sense of foreboding washed over him.


    The Profound Water Turtle beneath him shuddered slightly, as if reacting to the tension in the air.


    ¡°What a strong killing intent.¡±


    Lan Chang''an caught a faint whiff of blood in the air.


    Looking down at the bay, he saw a cultivation family¡¯s residence on a second-rank spiritual vein.


    The formation was broken, buildingsy in ruins, and smoke still lingered in the air.


    ¡°Could it be...?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s face darkened, recalling the fate of the Maple Leaf Huang Family, and immediately veered off course.


    After flying for half a li, he felt a Fake Dan-level spiritual sense lock onto him.


    ¡°Heh heh, seems we¡¯ve found ourselves an interesting little fish.¡±


    An old voice echoed from near the ruined family estate.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Six or seven Foundation Establishment cultivators rushed out from behind the dunes, where a concealment array had been hiding them.


    These Foundation Establishment cultivators were all elites, their spiritual power far purer than those of Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects. Most of them were in the mid-tote Foundation Establishment stage.


    In addition, there was a Fake Dan Immortal who had yet to reveal themselves.


    ¡°Cultivators from Feng Kingdom?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s brows furrowed. He had encountered a group of elite enemy cultivators, likely the ones responsible for wiping out the family below.


    ¡°Tsk tsk, riding a second-rank Profound Water Turtle? This one must have some background.¡±


    The six or seven Foundation Establishment cultivators surrounded him, smirking as if they had cornered a stray fish.


    Lan Chang''an, still under the watchful spiritual sense of the unseen Fake Dan Immortal, was trying to pinpoint their location.


    Just then, a voice broke the silence:


    ¡°...Uncle Lan, is that you?¡±


    Ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator from Golden Sun Sect suddenly gasped, his face filled with shock and disbelief as he stared at the white-robed man on the turtle¡¯s back.

 Chapter 215: Thunderous Execution

    ¡°...You are Uncle Lan?¡±


    Lan Chang''an followed the voice and turned to look at the Foundation Establishment cultivator from Feng Kingdom who had spoken.


    It was a man in histe twenties, dressed in a long robe. His face was handsome and pale, and his posture was upright and imposing.


    If this man were a few years younger, his appearance and temperament would have somewhat resembled Lan Chang''an.


    "Nephew Jiuan?"


    Lan Chang''an showed a surprised expression. He hadn''t expected that the person he had discussed with Li Erqing a few days ago, "Mu Jiuan," would cross paths with him under such circumstances.


    Thest time he met Mu Jiuan was more than sixty years ago.


    At that time, Mu Jiuan had apprenticed under an elder of the Golden Sun Sect, and along with his Daoistpanion Yu Yufu, they had visited Lan Chang''an at Wuqi Mountain, bringing along valuable gifts as a token of respect.However, it was only under his father''s pressure that Mu Jiuan begrudgingly went to visit Lan Chang''an.


    There was no genuine uncle-nephew rtionship between them.


    Having been taken to Feng Kingdom at a young age, where he married and cultivated in the Golden Sun Sect, Mu Jiuan naturally felt distant from his kin and friends back in the Liang Kingdom, including his elders.


    Moreover, with the two nations being enemies and the distance between them great, their ties had essentially been severed.


    "Junior Brother Jiuan, you know this person?"


    In the group, a tall man in a red robe, a Foundation Establishment cultivator in thete stage, furrowed his brow and asked.


    Mu Jiuan looked troubled. He forced a smile and transmitted a message:


    "Senior Brother Guang, this man is an elder from my home in Liang Kingdom. Uncle Lan is just a wandering cultivator and not affiliated with any sect. Can we let him go?"


    "As your elder, he looks so youthful despite his age, rides a Profound Water Turtle as a mount, and his power exceeds that of ordinary sect disciples. Are you certain he''s just some insignificant loose cultivator?"


    Senior Brother Guang sneered, his tone filled with doubt and malice.


    "Junior Brother Jiuan! We previously decided to attack the Maple Leaf Huang Family as a warning to others, and we refrained from targeting your father''s family, already giving you plenty of face."


    "And now, not only have you failed to turn the Mu family of Feiyue Lake to our side, but you''re also trying to protect an elder who isn¡¯t even blood-rted to you?"


    Mu Jiuan opened his mouth but was left speechless.


    In his earlier years, Mu Jiuan had been epted as a disciple by an elder of the Golden Sun Sect, andter married the elder''s granddaughter. In the sect, he had flourished, receiving ample resources.


    However, twenty years ago, his master, a True Dan cultivator in thete stage, had unfortunately fallen in a war between cultivators.


    Although he still had some connections with his senior brothers and fellow disciples, his status and treatment within the sect were no longer what they used to be.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t have had to undertake a dangerous mission deep within enemy territory.


    Still, he was hoping to earn some battle merits andpete for resources to reach the Core Formation Realm.


    "Jiuan, since it''s an old person you know, this old man will make the decision to give him a way out."


    An aged voice sounded from the dense forest half a li behind Lan Chang''an.


    A green-robed elder appeared out of thin air on the treetop.


    "A Fake Dan cultivator adept in concealment techniques?"


    Lan Chang''an''s back went cold. He had only just detected this person¡¯s presence.


    For someone to infiltrate deep into enemy lines and lead a team on a mission, the leader was bound to possess exceptional abilities.


    "Thank you, Master Lu!"


    Mu Jiuan''s face lit up with joy, and the other Foundation Establishment cultivators respectfully bowed.


    "However, sparing his life is already an exception. If we let this man leave without any cost, it will be difficult for me to convince the public!"


    Master Lu''s tone shifted, and his narrow eyes focused coldly on Lan Chang''an, who was seated on his Profound Water Turtle.


    "Hand over your storage pouch, leave the Profound Water Turtle behind... and get lost!"


    Mu Jiuan''s face changed slightly at these words, but he didn''t plead any further.


    A spiritual pet and a storage pouch filled with valuables were all external possessions.


    Saving Lan Chang''an''s life, Mu Jiuan felt, was already the limit of his duty.


    "Nephew Jiuan, I''ll see youter."


    Lan Chang''an smiled as he bid farewell to Mu Jiuan.


    The Feng Kingdom cultivators all thought he had surrendered.


    However, Lan Chang''an didn''t hand over his storage pouch. Instead, he took out a blue talisman, just shy of being a third-rank, and fired it toward the Profound Water Turtle''s belly.


    Whoosh! Boom!


    A massive dark-blue wave surged forward, carrying both Lan Chang''an and the Profound Water Turtle, crashing through the left front side.


    The Fake Dan cultivator from Feng Kingdom was stationed behind him. Lan Chang''an chose to break through the front.


    Mu Jiuan was positioned on the right side, and Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want to put him in a difficult position, so he decided to break through on the left.


    The quasi-third-rank water-type spell unleashed a terrifying momentum, causing the three Foundation Establishment cultivators in that direction to turn pale.


    Taking advantage of the water element, the Profound Water Turtle''s speed surged, surpassing even that ofte Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "Stop him!"


    Senior Brother Guang, who didn¡¯t get along with Mu Jiuan, shouted angrily. He summoned a magical treasure prototype, an iron ring, which transformed into a massive wheel about six or seven zhang in size, radiating a dazzling light as it intercepted Lan Chang''an.


    Apanying Senior Brother Guang, three other mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators also attacked.


    Pfft! Pfft! Chirp!


    The massive dark-blue wave was blocked by Senior Brother Guang''s magical treasure prototype and the supreme-grade magic weapons of the three Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "As expected of elite Foundation Establishment cultivators from a Nascent Soul sect, handling a Fake Dan spell with such ease."


    Lan Chang''an remained calm. He lightly tapped his storage pouch.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Three puppets floated above the blue wave.


    At the forefront was a top second-rank turtle puppet.


    Behind it were two archer puppets, one superior-grade and the other top-grade second rank.


    Bang!


    The turtle puppet charged forward, knocking aside Senior Brother Guang¡¯s magical treasure prototype by several zhang.


    Senior Brother Guang was shocked. As he stabilized his now-dim magical treasure prototype, he realized that the turtle puppet waspletely unharmed.


    "So tough! The defense of this turtle puppet isparable to that of a quasi-third-rank demonic beast!"


    Despite being ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, Senior Brother Guang could only barely defend against the turtle puppet''s aggressive assault, forcing him to retreat step by step.


    At the same time, the long-range attacks from the two archer puppets,bined with the Profound Water Turtle''s water ripple spell, suppressed the other three mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Seeing this, Mu Jiuan and the other two Foundation Establishment cultivators on his side were stunned.


    Lan Chang''an, alone, was able to suppress four elite Foundation Establishment cultivators from their sect, including Senior Brother Guang, who wielded a magical treasure prototype.


    Mu Jiuan knew that Senior Brother Guang''s strength surpassed his own by a good margin.


    Mu Jiuan did not intervene due to his rtionship with Lan Chang''an. The two Foundation Establishment cultivators beside him, who had a good rtionship with him, hesitated as well, especially since Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t breaking through on their side.


    The next moment, they would be immensely thankful for their decision.


    "Those who dare stand in my way, die!"


    Lan Chang''an shouted loudly. With a wave of his sleeve, a half-moon-shaped ck scimitar, gleaming with a golden sheen, surged forward like a tidal wave, slicing toward the Feng Kingdom cultivators.


    "Not good!"


    Master Lu, who had been slowly approaching from the rear, suddenly turned pale.


    The power of this strike far surpassed that of an ordinary magical treasure prototype, on par with a Fake Dan expert.


    "Ahh! Ahh!"


    Wherever the scimitar passed, protective shields shattered, blood sprayed, and bodies were cleaved in two.


    Two of the mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, who had been suppressed by the puppets, were caught off guard and fell on the spot.


    "Hiss!"


    The third mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator hastily activated a life-saving talisman, barely fending off the remnants of the ck-gold scimitar, but still lost an arm in the process.


    However, before he couldst much longer, an arrow from the top-grade archer puppet pierced his skull, and his lifeless body fell to the ground.


    In just two breaths, Lan Chang''an had in three mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The only one left blocking his path was Senior Brother Guang, ate Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Junior Brother Jiuan, save me¡ª"


    Senior Brother Guang''s scalp tingled as he desperately cried out for help.


    With three Foundation Establishment cultivators dead, Senior Brother Guang was left alone, besieged by three powerful puppets and the Profound Water Turtle. His control over his magical treasure prototype was waning as his magical power drained.


    He activated a quasi-third-rank protective talisman, but the protective shield rapidly dimmed under the relentless assault, on the verge of copsing within moments.


    Shh!


    At that moment, Lan Chang''an¡¯s ck-gold curved scimitar magical treasure prototype shed toward Senior Brother Guang¡¯s face.


    "Stop!"


    Master Lu, the Fake Dan cultivator, rushed forward from behind, his voice filled with both shock and rage.


    "Hmph!"


    Lan Chang''an snorted coldly, his voice resonating like thunder.


    For an instant, Senior Brother Guang froze as he was about to activate a second talisman.


    The next moment, his vision went ck, and he lost consciousness.


    "Senior Brother Guang!"


    Mu Jiuan gasped, a chill running down his spine.


    He watched in horror as the estranged Senior Brother Guang, from head to torso, was cleaved in two by a single strike.


    In the brief moment after Lan Chang''an had in four Foundation Establishment cultivators, a squeaking sound echoed.


    Squeak! Squeak!


    An orange-purple demon rat scurried across the ground and through the air, swiftly collecting the storage pouches of the fallen cultivators one by one.


    Almost immediately after Lan Chang''an finished his ying, the Earth Burrowing Rat delivered the loot onto the turtle''s back.


    "Hmm."


    Lan Chang''an smiled and nodded, epting the loot before casting a nce toward Mu Jiuan on the right.


    "Uncle Lan..."


    Mu Jiuan¡¯s pupils contracted, his throat tightening as he forced a smile. Instinctively, his body began to retreat.


    Looking at the eternally youthful and serene Uncle Lan, Mu Jiuan felt an overwhelming sense of shock, coupled with an indescribable fear and unfamiliarity.


    His father, Li Erqing, had always shown immense gratitude and respect toward this Uncle Lan, but Mu Jiuan had never taken it seriously, begrudgingly visiting him in the past.


    If not for that reluctant visit years ago, the two would not even have known each other.


    And if not for that, today¡¯s encounter would have ended with Mu Jiuan sharing the same fate as the four dead cultivators.


    ...


    "Who are you, daring to kill the disciples of my Golden Sun Sect?"


    With the overwhelming spiritual pressure of a Fake Dan cultivator, the green-robed elder finally arrived at the scene, his ghostly figure hovering in the air.


    "This Lan is just a loose cultivator."


    Lan Chang''an positioned the turtle puppet behind him, with the two archer puppets nking his sides.


    The power he had disyed earlier,bined with his formidable puppets, was enough to put him on equal footing with a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Forcing down the killing intent within his heart, Master Lu hesitated, summoning his magical treasure but not daring to attack recklessly.


    He couldn''t believe that Lan Chang''an was merely an ordinary loose cultivator. He must have a significant background.


    Had he known Lan Chang''an possessed such strength, Master Lu would never have made the decisions he did.


    Their team of cultivators was deep in enemy territory, primarily tasked with subversion and covert sabotage. They were in no position to confront the sects of Liang Kingdom head-on.


    Their mission was essentially guerri warfare, avoiding direct confrontation with stronger forces.


    "Master Lu."


    Mu Jiuan and the remaining three Foundation Establishment cultivators breathed a collective sigh of relief and quickly regrouped with the elder.


    Lan Chang''an made no move to stop them.


    "In consideration of my nephew Jiuan, I will spare your lives today."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze swept indifferently over Master Lu and Mu Jiuan.


    Swish!


    With a wave of his sleeve, Lan Chang''an retracted his puppets and sat atop the Profound Water Turtle.


    Following his original route, the massive dark-green turtle carried the calm andposed white-robed man as they rode the waves into the sky.


    Watching the distant figure of the man and his turtle, Master Lu''s face darkened with indecision.


    Even though Lan Chang''an had withdrawn his puppets, Master Lu still didn''t dare to make a move.


    From Lan Chang''an¡¯s unhurried demeanor, he could sense that the man still had strength to spare, making him unfathomable.


    "Master Lu, what should we do now?"


    "Collect the bodies and leave the scene!"


    Master Lu gritted his teeth and made a firm decision.


    Given Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength and tactics, if he had chosen to stall them, reinforcements from the sects of Liang Kingdom would eventually arrive, and this elite squad of Feng Kingdom cultivators deep in enemy territory would face certain doom.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s parting words were no exaggeration.


    Gathering their fallenrades, the elite cultivators from Feng Kingdom quickly retreated.


    "Master Lu..."


    As they made their way back, Mu Jiuan noticed Master Lu¡¯s deep, probing gaze on him, and he lowered his head in shame.


    Master Lu looked at him meaningfully and said,


    "Don''t me yourself. If not for the fact that you are this man¡¯s junior, we might all have perished in Liang Kingdom today..."

 Chapter 216: Trading Secret Method

    Lan Chang''an flew several li away, scanning the surroundings with his spiritual sense.


    The battle just now hadsted only a few breaths.


    For the time being, only a few cultivators from the Golden Sun Sect were aware of a part of his strength.


    Such a humiliating scandal was not something Mu Jiuan and the others would want to spread to outsiders.


    Lan Chang''an didn''t want a direct confrontation with a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Dragging things out and revealing too much of his power could easily attract the attention of the higher-ups in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    Of course, in these chaotic times, trying to conceal one¡¯s cultivation level and travel low-key was impractical.


    The mere fact of encountering sect patrol cultivators along the way was already a difficult hurdle.Once your identity was unclear and your cultivation unremarkable, even with reason on your side, you could still find it hard to exin things to the sect¡¯sw enforcement cultivators.


    It was easy to be branded as a "spy from an enemy country" or be taken as aborer under some pretext.


    Moreover, the ambushing rogue cultivators across various regions often targeted the weak, seeking easy prey.


    In such special times, it was easy to attract trouble by keeping a low profile.


    Lan Chang''an had been able to travel smoothly in recent days thanks to histe Foundation Establishment cultivation and the hundred years of reputation and connections he had built up in Liang.


    The sect patrol cultivators he encountered along the way were respectful to him and did not give him any trouble.


    So far, no rogue cultivators had attacked him either.


    ...


    Flying dozens of li further, Lan Chang''an used his spiritual sense to search the area andnded in a remote, deserted ravine.


    He needed to quickly dispose of and destroy any suspicious items in the four storage pouches.


    Among the storage pouches of the Feng Kingdom¡¯s sect cultivators he had killed were some items formunication and correspondence.


    With his powerful spiritual sense and broad experience, Lan Chang''an swiftly finished his inspection.


    Among the spoils, the items that caught his eye included the prototype of a magical treasure, a quasi-third-rank talisman, and even a talismanic treasure that hadn¡¯t been used yet.


    Talismanic treasures were highly powerful, but they required some guidance from spiritual sense and its activation speed was half a beat slower than that of a normal talisman.


    He had also collected twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones.


    Without realizing it, the spirit stones Lan Chang''an had umted now exceeded one hundred thousand.


    Even an early-stage True Dan cultivator wouldn¡¯t be able to produce that many spirit stones.


    A significant portion of these spirit stones came from the profits he had made over the years from war spection, talisman-making, and puppetry.


    Spirit stones were just liquid assets and could not fully measure a cultivator¡¯s true wealth.


    Especially for a cultivator like Lan Chang''an, who possessed many treasures, as well as high-quality talismans and puppets.


    After a short time, Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze turned southwest.


    "Finally arrived."


    A squad of sectw enforcement cultivators was flying toward the bay where the Feng Kingdom cultivators had wiped out a family n.


    There were five or six members in this squad, the leader being ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, while the rest were at the early and middle stages.


    Due to a shortage of personnel in the sect, the squad also included family cultivators who had been conscripted.


    Two of them were holding special magical weapons that could sense the fluctuations of magical power within a certain range.


    If any cultivator engaged inbat or was flying nearby, they would be detected.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an was stationary and not flying. Using the concealment ability of his Evergreen Technique, he could avoid detection.


    The Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects used this method to guard key checkpoints and monitor the movement of cultivators from various cultivation forces.


    Simr techniques were used near the border to prevent cultivators from escaping to other countries. The consequences of being caught were severe.


    Of course, the border was vast and inevitably had loopholes, so it couldn¡¯t bepletely foolproof.


    This was mainly aimed at preventing medium and small-sized cultivation forces from relocating their entire ns.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an sensed that thew enforcement squad was flying toward the area near the bay where the massacre had urred.


    Although it was beyond his spiritual sense range, the noise of their flight and the fluctuations of their magical power allowed him to roughly judge their position.


    ¡°Could it be that the elite cultivators of the Feng Kingdom were originally nning to ambush this squad ofw enforcement cultivators?¡±


    A sh of insight crossed Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind as he guessed.


    The nearby sectw enforcement cultivators were far inferior in quality to Mu Jiuan¡¯s group from the Golden Sun Sect.


    Even if they were at the same cultivation level, there would still be a significant gap in strength.


    Of course, for Lan Chang''an, it made no difference.


    Anyone below thete Foundation Establishment stage was as easy to handle as cutting vegetables or ughtering chickens.


    Unless they were a sect''s heavenly pride, a Core Formation seed, like Tuoba Jin in the past.


    But such prodigies wouldn¡¯t be carrying out high-risk missions deep in enemy territory.


    ¡°Before Mu Jiuan and his group withdrew, they collected the bodies. This sectw enforcement squad shouldn¡¯t be able to trace anything back to me. At least, not in the short term.¡±


    Lan Chang''an muttered to himself, confident that he had left no loose ends.


    Half an hourter.


    On their way back, Lan Chang''an took the initiative to approach the sectw enforcement squad.


    ¡°Are you the Talisman Master Lan from Wuqi Mountain?¡±


    Upon seeing thete Foundation Establishment cultivator riding a giant turtle, the squad ofw enforcement cultivators rxed slightly after recognizing him.


    Ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator with a second-rank spirit pet as a mount was nothing out of the ordinary, so the group of fellow cultivators was not surprised.


    ¡°That¡¯s me.¡±


    Lan Chang''an stood up on the turtle¡¯s back, cupped his hands in greeting, and began to converse with the elderly woman leading the squad.


    Over the past hundred years, Lan Chang''an had frequently visited Jin Yun Valley and had encountered this elderly woman once or twice, particrly during Zhang Tieshan¡¯s small Core Formation celebration.


    Moreover, his reputation as a "Talisman Master on a Giant Turtle" had spread somewhat in the surrounding area.


    ¡°I have urgent matters to attend to with Tianfeng Immortal, and I regret that I cannot help you guard the Liang Kingdom¡¯s borders or capture enemy cultivators together.¡±


    ¡°These second-rank talismans are a small token of my appreciation.¡±


    Lan Chang''an handed over six talismans to the elderly woman: five mid-grade second-rank talismans and one superior-grade second-rank talisman, just enough for each person to receive one.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯re too kind!¡±


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s contributions in crafting arge number of talismans for the sect are no less valuable than fighting on the frontlines.¡±


    Thete-stage Foundation Establishment woman¡¯s tone became much friendlier.


    Lan Chang''an took the opportunity to inquire about Zhang Tieshan¡¯s situation.


    ¡°Zhang Immortal is fighting on the frontlines and hasn¡¯t returned for over half a year. However, his direct disciple, Yu Qinghai, is currently at the sect.¡±


    ¡°And Sister Zhao? She¡¯s recently been in seclusion preparing for Core Formation. Her disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er, is stationed at the frontlines for defense¡­¡±


    Since Lan Chang''an was a well-known figure with a good reputation, and he had offered them some small favors, the Foundation Establishment cultivators from Jin Yun Valley were quite open in their responses, without too much reservation.


    Thete-stage Foundation Establishment woman even quietly informed Lan Chang''an that Zhang Tieshan was very likely to return within the next two or three months.


    This was due to an unwritten rule for cultivators sent from Jin Yun Valley to the frontlines:


    If a cultivator achieved significant military merit, they could be reassigned back to the sect after one year to guard the sect or perform tasks behind the battlefield.


    ¡°This jade token can serve as an identity certificate around Jin Yun Valley, Fellow Daoist Lan.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, fellow Daoists.¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled warmly, chatting pleasantly with the Jin Yun Valleyw enforcement squad before finally bidding them farewell.


    The information he had gathered, as well as the identity token he received, would be very useful to him.


    Having spent a hundred years cultivating in the Liang Kingdom, building connections and a modest reputation, along with his low-profile and reliable demeanor, gave him a unique advantage in negotiations.


    If it had been an ordinary low-level Foundation Establishment cultivator wandering around outside, encountering this squad ofw enforcement cultivators, they would be lucky not to be conscripted by the sect.


    ...


    A few dayster, holding the identity token, Lan Chang''an traveled smoothly and unhindered to Jin Yun Valley.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan.¡±


    After reporting his arrival, a tall, stern-faced Foundation Establishment youth wearing a pale blue robe personally came out to greet him.


    This person was none other than Yu Qinghai, Zhang Tieshan¡¯s direct disciple.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that after Zhang Tieshan¡¯s Core Formation celebration, Yu Qinghai had treated him with much more respect.


    ¡°Qinghai, given the current special circumstances, I won¡¯t be entering the sect.¡±


    Lan Chang''an said with a smile.


    Due to the ongoing war within the country, the major sects had heightened their security measures, making it difficult for external cultivators to enter and leave.


    This was also to prevent infiltration by enemy cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an preferred not to enter the sect to avoid the risk of being noticed by some Immortal and conscripted for sect duties.


    The two sat down outside the sect¡¯s reception pavilion and talked for a long time.


    From Yu Qinghai, Lan Chang''an received confirmation that Zhang Tieshan would be making a trip back to Jin Yun Valley in two or three months.


    ¡°Qinghai, when your master returns to Jin Yun Valley, please hand him this letter.¡±


    Before parting, Lan Chang''an left behind a letter sealed with a restriction.


    The letter didn¡¯t mention anything specific, only asking Zhang Tieshan to meet him for a conversation.


    A superior secret method for reforming a Core was undoubtedly a major secret for Fake Dan cultivators.


    Given the sensitive nature of this matter, if Zhang Tieshan decided to flip the script and conduct the transaction within the sect, Lan Chang''an would be in a vulnerable position.


    Even though they had a friendship spanning over a century, Lan Chang''an trusted Zhang Tieshan¡¯s character, believing that he was a man of loyalty and fairness, particrly within the sect.


    However, it didn¡¯t hurt to n for the worst.


    In case the transaction fell through or some taboo was vited of the other party, Lan Chang''an could make a swift retreat without getting trapped deep within the sect.


    ...


    Three monthster.


    A thousand li away from Jin Yun Valley, atop the summit of a towering pir-shaped mountain.


    A man in white robes sat cross-legged, his eyes suddenly opening with a slight smile on his lips.


    From the clouds came a loud screech.


    A top second-rank golden eagle flew down, carrying a calm andposed man in dark robes, whoseplexion was slightly tanned.


    The golden eagle slowly descended before the pir-shaped mountain peak.


    ¡°I appreciate Tianfeng Immortal personallying out to meet me.¡±


    Lan Chang''an stood up and greeted him.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s Daoist title was ¡°Tianfeng,¡± a respectful yet familiar form of address used by close acquaintances.


    ¡°Haha, it''s rare for Fellow Daoist Lan to arrange a meeting. Of course, I had toe.¡±


    Zhang Tieshan waved his sleeves and returned the greeting, sitting down across from Lan Chang''an without any airs of a Fake Dan Immortal.


    ¡°This ce is quite a scenic spot.¡±


    Looking at the surrounding peaks and clouds, Zhang Tieshan smiled and nodded in approval.


    The location Lan Chang''an had chosen for the meeting was at the top of a solitary peak, not suitable for ambushes.


    After some small talk.


    Zhang Tieshan congratted Lan Chang''an on reaching thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    With his vision and cultivation, Zhang Tieshan could sense that Lan Chang''an¡¯s magical power was pure and his foundation solid, surpassing most of the Jin Yun Valley¡¯s cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t immediately bring up the topic of the transaction, first leading into a conversation about the frontline battlefield.


    As a sect elder, Zhang Tieshan was privy to some confidential information about the war, but he kept some secrets to himself. However, he didn¡¯t hide any of the broader intelligence.


    asionally, Zhang Tieshan¡¯s subtle hints gave Lan Chang''an insight into the cruelty of the battlefield and the severity of the situation.


    From his own judgment and the information provided by the Tian Zhi Pavilion, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t hold much hope for the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    However, Zhang Tieshan¡¯s words carried a calm confidence. He hadn¡¯t lost faith in this war against the enemy¡¯s invasion.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, I presume you didn¡¯t arrange this meeting just to discuss the war, did you?¡±


    Zhang Tieshan said with a faint smile.


    ¡°Haha, I want to make a deal with Tianfeng Immortal.¡±


    Lan Chang''an chuckled softly and waved his sleeve.


    In the open space between the two of them appeared two pieces of third-rank gold-iron ore.


    A glint shed in Zhang Tieshan¡¯s eyes as he smiled, ¡°It seems Fellow Daoist Lan has done his homework.¡±


    Third-rank gold-iron ore was a precious material for forging magical treasures, highly valuable even for Fake Dan cultivators.


    Naturally, before approaching Zhang Tieshan for this transaction, Lan Chang''an had done some research.


    It was said that Zhang Tieshan had been collecting superior-grade gold-iron ore for many years.


    To an ordinary cultivator, this might seem peculiar.


    However, Zhang Tieshan was a highly skilled artifact refiner with exceptional talent in this area, at least a quasi-third-rank refiner, so such a demand was reasonable.


    ¡°What does Fellow Daoist Lan want to trade for?¡±


    Zhang Tieshan withdrew his gaze and asked calmly.


    Lan Chang''an looked directly at him and, with his lips barely moving, transmitted a message:


    ¡°I want Tianfeng Immortal¡¯s secret method for reforming a Core.¡±


    As soon as he spoke, Lan Chang''an felt a powerful spiritual pressure envelop him, and the surrounding winds instantly stilled.


    A sharp glint shed in Zhang Tieshan¡¯s eyes.


    The two stared at each other in silence for a long time.


    Lan Chang''an remainedposed,pletely unfazed by the spiritual pressure of the Fake Dan cultivator, even releasing his own spiritual sense that wasparable to a Fake Dan level.


    When it came to a major transaction involving such a secret as the Core Dissolution Technique, Lan Chang''an naturally had to show some of his strength.


    Whether the deal seeded or not, he nned to leave the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, so he had fewer concerns than before.


    ...


    ¡°Where did you learn this from?¡±


    The spiritual pressure surrounding Zhang Tieshan slowly dissipated.


    ¡°I guessed,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a warm smile. ¡°My intuition tells me that Brother Zhang¡¯s achievements shouldn¡¯t be limited to a Fake Dan.¡±


    Zhang Tieshan shook his head. ¡°Two pieces of third-rank ore are not enough.¡±


    ¡°Besides, even if you obtain the secret method, without a Nascent Soul True Monarch to assist with the process, the risk of shattering the core and liquefying it is immense.¡±


    ¡°No need for Tianfeng Immortal to worry about that. Even if there¡¯s only a ten or twenty percent chance, it¡¯s better than having no hope at all for forming a True Dan.¡±


    Lan Chang''an detected Zhang Tieshan¡¯s probing.


    He thought to himself, "Don¡¯t you alsock a Nascent Soul True Monarch for protection?"


    ¡°How about adding this magical treasure crafted primarily from gold-iron materials? Would that be enough to satisfy Tianfeng Immortal?¡±


    Lan Chang''an had prepared well in advance and produced a ck treasure ruler.


    This treasure ruler was one of the spoils he had gained from killing Tan Immortal and was of decent quality for a low-grade magical treasure.


    After all, Tan Immortal had been a wanted criminal of the sect, so this magical treasure ruler, as a spoil of war, couldn¡¯t be considered stolen goods.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s eyes brightened slightly as he looked at the magical treasure ruler, clearly interested.


    However, in the end, he shook his head and sighed. ¡°Zhang wants something else from you.¡±


    ¡°Oh? What does Tianfeng Immortal desire?¡±


    Lan Chang''an felt a tinge of surprise.


    ¡°The Five Element Spirit Soil,¡± Zhang Tieshan said, looking straight at him.


    ¡°How did you know about that?¡±


    This time, it was Lan Chang''an¡¯s turn to be surprised, his eyes turning sharp.


    Zhang Tieshan knew he had Five Element Spirit Soil?


    Most of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Five Element Spirit Soil was stored in arge porcin vat used where cultivating the Xuanmu Gourd Vine was nted, sealed with severalyers of advanced restrictions and isted with shadowstones.


    In addition, there were two jars of Five Element Spirit Soil stored separately with only a standard restriction in ce.


    The former was sealed so tightly that a True Dan cultivator''s spiritual sense sweeping through would ignore it.


    Once probed by spiritual sense and touched the restriction system, Lan Chang''an would be able to detect it but it did not react just now.


    It seemed more likely that thetter had been exposed.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan needn¡¯t overthink it. I have a special talent for sensing the materials I need for refining. I bear no ill will.¡±


    Zhang Tieshan hurriedly exined.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s sharp gaze gave him a vague sense of danger.


    ¡°Five Element Spirit Soil is extremely precious! Brother Zhang, as a sect artifact refiner, should know that very well.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression turned cold, his tone assertive.


    In his past life, he had never seen Five Element Spirit Soil and had no idea what its exact value was.


    ¡°Well... actually, I don¡¯t need that much.¡±


    Zhang Tieshan seemed somewhatcking in confidence and spoke in a negotiating tone:


    ¡°If Fellow Daoist Lan agrees to the trade, I can offer you a superior secret method for Core Formation. Even without a Nascent Soul True Monarch, it guarantees a sess rate of over thirty percent for Fake Dan cultivators.¡±

 Chapter 217: Borderland Demonic Cult

    Lan Chang''an''s heart stirred. As expected, Zhang Tieshan truly possessed a Core Dissolution Technique, and it was a superior one at that.


    A thirty percent sess rate was still a significant risk for individual cultivators.


    Even if one sessfully dissolved the Fake Dan into liquid and had a chance to re-condense the core, there was no guarantee that the second attempt would result in a True Dan.


    After all, those who achieved the Fake Dan were often not the top-tier geniuses in terms of qualifications.


    However, with the assistance of a Nascent Soul True Monarch and the support of rare heavenly treasures, the sess rate of this method would be much more promising.


    This was precisely why mostplete and reliable Core Dissolution Techniques were controlled by Nascent Soul-level sects.


    "May I take a look at a portion of this Core Dissolution Technique first, to verify its authenticity?" Lan Chang''an asked after some thought.


    "Of course."Zhang Tieshan took out a nk jade slip, ced it against his forehead for a moment, and then tossed it to Lan Chang''an.


    The "Returning Dust Core Transformation Method."


    After examining the content of the secret method in the jade slip, Lan Chang''an nodded to himself.


    In his previous life, he had obtained a fragmented Core Dissolution Technique. When cross-referencing it with what Zhang Tieshan provided, it was clear that Zhang''s method was far more advanced andplete.


    "How does Tianfeng Immortal n to conduct this transaction?"


    After a preliminary verification, Lan Chang''an handed the jade slip back to Zhang Tieshan, not bothering with any more pleasantries.


    Then, Lan Chang''an took out a jar of Five Element Spirit Soil and spoke directly:


    "Without the protection of a Nascent Soul True Monarch, this Core Dissolution Technique still has considerable limitations on its own."


    "And the Five Element Spirit Soil, known as the ''Universal Soil Source,'' has extensive uses. Not only can it cultivate nearly all rare immortal nts with enhanced effects, but it is also a premium neutral material in artifact refining, capable of improving the quality and sess rate of magical treasures."


    Lan Chang''an spected that Zhang Tieshan¡¯s demand for the Five Element Spirit Soil was likely rted to artifact refining.


    However, since artifacts refined using the Five Element Spirit Soil would be of a high grade, Zhang Tieshan, with his current Fake Dan cultivation, wouldn¡¯t benefit much from them.


    Additionally, Lan Chang''an also considered the possibility that the soil might be used to repair high-grade treasures, given its properties.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan speaks the truth. The Five Element Spirit Soil is indeed a rare and strategic resource. However, the Core Dissolution Technique is directly rted to the path of immortality, something no external material canpare to."


    "My ''Returning Dust Core Transformation Method'' is superior even to the methods possessed by surrounding Nascent Soul sects. Besides myself, you won¡¯t find another source."


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s tone was calm, but his words hit the nail on the head.


    Lan Chang''an understood clearly. Even if he could find another source, it wouldn¡¯t be as secure.


    Those in possession of aplete and reliable Core Dissolution Technique were, at the very least, elders of Nascent Soul sects, if not Nascent Soul True Monarchs themselves.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want to drag things out and risk losing more than he gained.


    While ensuring the sess of the transaction, he also sought to gain some additional benefits.


    Zhang Tieshan was willing to trade the Five Element Spirit Soil for the Core Dissolution Technique and even offeredpensation in the form of spirit stones or high-level cultivation techniques.


    However, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t agree to this. He only offered to sell half a jar of the Five Element Spirit Soil.


    The soil wasn¡¯t the primary material for artifact refining; it was more like a rare additive, simr to rare earth elements, used to neutralize or enhance the refining process. Normally, not much was needed to craft a magical treasure.


    To avoid suffering a loss, Lan Chang''an limited the quantity of soil he was willing to trade.


    However, for an artifact refiner, the more Five Element Spirit Soil, the better.


    "Fine, I hope Fellow Daoist Lan will refrain from selling the remaining Five Element Spirit Soil to others."


    Zhang Tieshan sighed, clearly in urgent need of the soil, and made a concession.


    Lan Chang''an smiled. "Rest assured, Tianfeng Immortal. I''m no artifact refiner. I¡¯ll reserve the remaining soil for you for the next few decades."


    Zhang Tieshan was clearly blessed with fortuitous encounters and had great potential, wielding a Core Dissolution Technique but only reaching the Fake Dan stage. His ambitions were great.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind doing more business with him in the future to obtain other rare resources.


    ...


    "I hope Fellow Daoist Lan will swear an oath to the Heart Demon that, after acquiring this Core Dissolution Technique, you won¡¯t leak it to a third party."


    Zhang Tieshan engraved theplete "Returning Dust Core Transformation Method" into the jade slip.


    "Tianfeng Immortal, this request aligns perfectly with my own intentions. As for the contents of this transaction, including the acquisition of the Five Element Spirit Soil, I hope Tianfeng Immortal will likewise swear a Heart Demon oath not to reveal it to outsiders."


    Lan Chang''an added this use.


    Both parties swore Heart Demon oaths, and the transaction waspleted.


    Zhang Tieshan inspected the half jar of Five Element Spirit Soil, and a hint of joy appeared on his face.


    Lan Chang''an also examined the Core Dissolution Technique within the jade slip using his spiritual sense and was satisfied with the result.


    Neither party delved into the other''s secrets.


    Zhang Tieshan didn¡¯t ask how Lan Chang''an had acquired the Five Element Spirit Soil, and Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t inquire about what Zhang Tieshan needed it for or where he had obtained the Core Dissolution Technique.


    Both of them had less-than-ster aptitudes, and their ability to reach this stage was likely due to fortuitous encounters. No one in the outside world would believe otherwise.


    "I n to retreat to a remote ce to prepare for Core Formation. I¡¯m not sure when I¡¯ll return. After Fellow Daoist Zhao emerges from seclusion, I hope Tianfeng Immortal can inform her."


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an cupped his hands and made his request.


    In this life, his two closest friends were Li Erqing and Zhao Siyao.


    He had already met with Li Erqing at Feiyue Lake.


    Zhao Siyao was still in seclusion, and her disciple had gone to the frontlines, so they hadn¡¯t been able to meet.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, please take care. I will certainly pass on your message."


    Zhang Tieshan nodded solemnly.


    Standing atop the lonely peak, he watched as Lan Chang''an rode off into the distant horizon atop his turtle, vanishing into the sky.


    Swish!


    The half jar of Five Element Spirit Soil in Zhang Tieshan¡¯s hands suddenly vanished, though the jar itself remained.


    "Not bad. With this portion of Five Element Spirit Soil, plus the gold-iron materials and magical treasures collected over the years, the spiritual treasure fragment where this artifact spirit resides will be able to be repaired by sixty or seventy percent, which should speed up its restoration."


    A childish yet deliberately mature voice echoed in his mind.


    "With your artifact spirit¡¯s spiritual awareness, were you able to discern any clues about Fellow Daoist Lan?" Zhang Tieshan asked curiously.


    "This child¡¯s cultivation aura feels somewhat familiar to me."


    The artifact spirit''s tone carried a hint of doubt.


    "Unfortunately, due to the self-destruction of the spiritual treasure back then, it shattered into several pieces, and I was newly reborn. I¡¯ve forgotten ny percent of my memories."


    "The strange thing is, during this meeting, that boy seemed to have some sort of obscure and unknown mystery that blocks deduction and spiritual perception. I couldn¡¯t probe any deeper."


    "An unknown mystery?"


    "I¡¯m not sure either. Perhaps once we gather the remaining fragments and I restore my peak state, we can investigate further."


    Hearing this, Zhang Tieshan was shocked. It seemed that Lan Chang''an was hiding some mystery that even the artifact spirit couldn¡¯tprehend for now.


    ...


    A monthter.


    A dark green giant turtle carried a white-robed man as it approached the northwest border of the Liang Kingdom.


    "Senior Lan, the area beyond this point prohibits entry by our nation''s cultivators, unless they hold a passage token signed by the major sects."


    A squad of enforcement cultivators blocked Lan Chang''an''s path. The mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator leading them spoke politely.


    The identity token Lan Chang''an had obtained from Jin Yun Valley was no longer effective in this region.


    "I¡¯m not heading to the bordends. I¡¯m traveling north to visit an old friend," Lan Chang''an exined calmly.


    The highest cultivation among these patrol cultivators was only at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment. Lan Chang''an was confident he could wipe them out.


    However, the sect¡¯s enforcement cultivators near the border had means of transmitting messages.


    Even a minor skirmish could be detected by special artifacts from afar, which would summon higher-level cultivators from the sect.


    Two dayster.


    Lan Chang''an arrived at a snow-covered mountain range, where the air was filled with the fragrance of plum blossoms.


    It was his first time visiting thend of the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain.


    "Grandpa Lan!"


    Soon, a burly young man in a fur cloak greeted him warmly.


    Having lived in the bitterly cold northern region for many years, Li Congren was no longer the refined young man he once was. He had be more rugged and hearty, with a calm steadiness to him.


    It had been many years since theyst met, and Li Congren had already reached the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment. Though nearly a decade younger than Mu Bingyun, his Foundation Establishment fifth-level cultivation was not far behind hers.


    In the main hall of the Li Family¡¯s ancestralnd at Snow Plum Mountain, Lan Chang''an also met a female cultivator at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment.


    "This is my wife, Wu Yue¡¯e."


    Li Congren¡¯s wife was ordinary in appearance, simply dressed, with slightly darker skin.


    At first nce, she didn¡¯t seem like a match for Li Congren.


    "Greetings, Grandpa Lan."


    Wu Yue¡¯e greeted him with neither arrogance nor submission. Though her appearance was unremarkable, her bright eyes and pearly white teeth stood out.


    Lan Chang''an knew that during Li Congren¡¯s difficult years of pioneering in the north, this wife had been a great help to him.


    Due to the ongoing war, their marriage had been very low-key, without a public ceremony.


    At their first meeting, Lan Chang''an took out a set of high-grade second-rank talismans as a gift to Li Congren¡¯s wife.


    After a bit of polite refusal, the couple epted the gift with thanks.


    Several years ago, Li Congren had paid off his grandfather¡¯s debts and had shown filial respect to Lan Chang''an. At a critical moment, he had also passed on important information about the border blockade to Lan Chang''an.


    This time, Lan Chang''an came to the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain, intending to use Li Congren¡¯s connections to obtain more information and find a way to travel to the neutral cultivation country of Jing.


    "Congren, your Li Family has developed well here in Snow Plum Mountain. No wonder your grandfather praised you so many times."


    Lan Chang''an spoke sincerely.


    Besides Li Congren and his wife, the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain had another Foundation Establishment cultivator, someone with a life-and-death bond with Li Congren.


    When it came to managing the n, Li Congren was far more capable than his grandfather, Li Erqing.


    Not only that, but he also had a knack for diplomacy, maintaining good rtionships with the Beast Taming Zhou Family and Jin Yun Valley.


    He had even established business ties with merchants from neighboring countries.


    Before the war broke out, Li Congren had invested in mining rights, making a fortune from war-rted profits.


    ...


    Squeak! Squeak!


    As they chatted, the Earth Burrowing Rat became restless, crawling out of its storage pouch and baring its teeth at Li Congren.


    The aura of a peak second-rank demon beast startled Li Congren and his wife.


    "The Earth Burrowing Rat is well-behaved. It won¡¯t cause any trouble."


    Lan Chang''an smiled.


    Li Congren hesitated for a moment before patting his spirit pet pouch.


    Squeak!


    A sharper squeak was heard, and a pale golden rat demon with jewel-like eyes and sleek fur leapt out of the pouch.


    In terms of looks, this rat demon was far more appealing.


    Byparison, the Earth Burrowing Rat looked more like a scruffy rebel in the world of rat demons.


    "A second-rank mid-stage rat demon with traces of treasure-seeking rat bloodline."


    Lan Chang''an quietly observed.


    The pale golden rat demon was slightly smaller than the Earth Burrowing Rat and appeared timid and uneasy.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat let out a few soft calls, and after somemunication, the treasure-seeking rat lowered its guard.


    Before long, the two rat demons scurried off happily to y outside.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, though female, was the stronger of the two.


    A short whileter, the pale golden rat demon was dragged into the woods by the Earth Burrowing Rat, half willingly, half reluctantly.


    Li Congren¡¯s eyelid twitched.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t pay much attention to this and shifted the conversation to the situation on the border between the two countries.


    "Yue¡¯e, go check on the little golden rat."


    Following Lan Chang''an''s voice transmitted instructions, Li Congren had his wife Wu Yue¡¯e step outside to keep watch.


    No longer concealing his intentions, Lan Chang''an revealed his purpose and asked Li Congren about the route to Jing Kingdom.


    Li Congren nced at Lan Chang''an without showing much surprise.


    "Grandpa Lan, to be honest, I have contacts within the Jing Kingdom¡¯s ''Merchant Alliance.'' Two years ago, we even had a stable channel to send people to Jing Kingdom as refugees, but it required a hefty fee."


    "What¡¯s the current situation?"


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself that he had indeed found the right person. Thanks to his business dealings with neighboring countries, Li Congren had established ties with cultivators from the Jing Kingdom¡¯s Merchant Alliance.


    Jing, as a neutral country, had a powerful merchant presence that could rival the influence of its cultivation sects.


    "Over the past year, the sects of the Liang Kingdom have tightened their control. In the past, the Merchant Alliance¡¯s caravans could bring a few cultivators back to Jing with each transaction. There were even dedicated escort organizations that used giant spirit ships to smuggle people across, selling tickets. But now, such activities have been severely cracked down."


    "Just a few days ago, a spirit ship smuggling people was caught by the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects. Everyone aboard was ughtered."


    Li Congren¡¯s tone was grave.


    Lan Chang''an understood that he had missed the optimal window for escape.


    One or two years ago, when he had just advanced to thete Foundation Establishment stage and hadn¡¯t yet entered the ancient ruins, things would have been much easier.


    "If it¡¯s just a matter of the sects cracking down, that would merely increase the risk. There would still be room for maneuvering."


    "But in the past six months, a significant portion of the key border regions leading to Jing have fallen under the control of demonic sect forces."


    "The Xuan Yin Demonic Sect?"


    Lan Chang''an mused. Due to the surrounding wars between cultivation nations, the demonic forces led by Liang Shaotian had made a resurgence in the past two decades, taking advantage of the chaotic situation to thrive.


    "Exactly! Merchants from the alliance only need to pay a toll to pass through demonic sect territory. But for Liang Kingdom refugees seeking to flee to Jing, it¡¯s a different story. Even if they give up all their possessions, their lives may not be spared. Some are captured, others are killed outright..."


    Li Congren sighed.


    Between the sects¡¯ crackdowns, the threat of demonic sects, and the predatory rogue cultivators, the situation was bleak.


    Lan Chang''an began to piece together the bigger picture.


    "One of the key routes from our area to Jing is controlled by a significant figure in the demonic sect. This person is brutish and unpredictable, making him particrly troublesome."


    "Oh? And who might this demonic sect figure be?"


    "His name is Xiang Jinglong. He was once a notorious rogue cultivator in the Liang Kingdom. Grandpa Lan, you¡¯ve probably heard of him."


    "I have."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change, but a strange feeling stirred in his heart.


    Li Congren continued, "Years ago, Xiang Jinglong was wanted by the me Departing Pce. He then sought refuge in the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, where he received training and favor from the sect leader. His strength has since surged."


    "Now, his body-refining has reached the quasi-third rank. He¡¯s far stronger than most Fake Dan cultivators, nearly unmatched below the True Dan stage."

 Chapter 218: Third Rank Formation Master

    "Indeed, he''s a troublesome figure," Lan Chang''an muttered. Of course, he couldn¡¯t openly admit that Xiang Jinglong''s troubles with the me Departing Pce and his eventual alliance with the demonic sect were all indirectly caused by him.


    Now, Xiang Jinglong had be a major obstacle in Lan Chang''an''s journey to Jing.


    But even if it wasn¡¯t Xiang Jinglong, there would be a Xiang Dalong or Xiang Shaolong. The demonic sect would always dispatch a formidable figure to the chaotic bordends to seize control of the resources and exert their influence in this region.


    "Is it possible for a lone cultivator to cross the border and reach Jing without relying on these merchant associations or escort organizations?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "Very difficult!" Li Congren shook his head. "Between the two nations lies a vast stretch of low-spirit or even spirit-deprived zones, including dangerous natural barriers. The best method is to travel by giant spirit ships, which are driven by formation arrays powered by spirit stones. This allows cultivators to conserve their own energy and provides protection against external threats..."


    Lan Chang''an nodded in understanding.


    Low-spirit or spirit-deprived zones meant that long-distance travel would drain a cultivator¡¯s mana with little to no opportunity for replenishment. A weary cultivator would be much more vulnerable to the dangers along the way.


    Even without the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sect crackdowns or the demonic sect¡¯s threats, the rogue cultivators and bandits lying in ambush on the route would still be a major problem.The bandits, ouws, and fugitives who roamed the borders between the two nations were far more savage than those within the Liang Kingdom.


    "Before the war, a Fake Dan cultivator could easily cross the border, and ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator would also have a fair chance. But in these turbulent times, even Fake Dan cultivators face considerable risks traveling alone."


    "About half a year ago, a Fake Dan cultivator attempting to cross the border was ambushed and killed..."


    Li Congren did not rmend attempting to cross the border alone.


    From what he had gathered, most Fake Dan cultivators traveling between Liang and Jing these days were doing so by riding on giant spirit ships.


    The reasons were twofold: first, thefort of not having to expend their own energy over a long journey, and second, the greater safety provided by the ship¡¯s defensive formations and the strength of the group.


    Lan Chang''an mused, ¡°So, my n to disguise myself as a Fake Dan cultivator and cross the border might not work after all.¡±


    With histe-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation, his spiritual sense was alreadyparable to that of a Fake Dan cultivator. Using the Hundred Illusions Mask, he could disguise himself as one.


    He had previously considered using this high-profile approach to deceive others and safely cross the border.


    ¡°The Hundred Illusions Mask slowly drains spiritual sense while maintaining the disguise. The higher the simted cultivation, the greater the spiritual sense consumption. Combining that with the constant drain of mana on such a long journey, if I got ambushed¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an shook his head, dismissing the idea for now.


    "If you wish to go to Jing, Grandpa Lan, I rmend the Jiuchen Merchant Association. Of all the forces in the two cultivation nations, only they can reliably transport people to Jing."


    "The Jiuchen Merchant Association?" Lan Chang''an had heard of the organization in passing.


    "The Jiuchen Merchant Association is one of the ''Three Great Merchant Associations'' of the Jing Kingdom¡¯s Merchant Alliance. They¡¯ve been around for over a thousand years, and their guild leader is a deputy leader of the Merchant Alliance. This guild has major business dealings with the sects of the Liang Kingdom, and they are rarely subjected to thorough inspections."


    "Whenever they make a trip, the Jiuchen Merchant Association spends a great deal of money hiring powerful escort organizations for protection. To offset the costs and increase their profits, the Jiuchen Association secretly sells ''tickets'' to a limited number of Liang Kingdom cultivators, allowing them to return to Jing."


    ¡°Oh? Would the demonic sect not interfere with the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ships?¡±


    "The demonic sect gives the guild some face. Even when encountered, they can usually pay a ransom to avert disaster. It¡¯s said that on thest two trips back to Jing, over half of the Liang Kingdom cultivators aboard survived."


    "And what happened to the other half?"


    "I''m not entirely sure about the details," Li Congren admitted. "Perhaps it was due to the dangers of the journey¡ªlike running into the demonic sect and being unable to pay enough ransom. But cultivators with strong backing and wealth tend to make it through safely."


    Lan Chang''an understood. To the eyes of this junior, he must appear to be a cultivator with ample wealth and considerable connections.


    "How would one go about purchasing a ticket from the Jiuchen Merchant Association?"


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t worried about wealth¡ªhis liquid assets alone exceeded one hundred thousand spirit stones.


    "You¡¯ll need a mid-level or higher Merchant Alliance cultivator to introduce you to the guild. Including intermediary fees, a ticket would cost at least four or five thousand spirit stones."


    "Four or five thousand spirit stones?"


    Lan Chang''an was a bit surprised. That was almost the price of a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill at an auction.


    "Congren, do you have the means to help Grandpa Lan obtain a ticket?"


    "I can manage, but our Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain holds little sway with the major merchant associations of Jing. It would be more reliable to ask the Beast Taming Zhou Family to help, since Grandpa Lan has a connection with them."


    Li Congren suggested.


    The Zhou Family, being one of the seven great families of the Liang Kingdom, had connections with the merchant associations of Jing and could exert more influence.


    A ticket purchased through the Zhou Family would alsoe with better protection during the journey.


    Lan Chang''an thought for a moment. "I don¡¯t trust the Zhou Family."


    "Congren, I¡¯ll trouble you to handle this. Whatever fees are needed, Grandpa Lan will cover them."


    "Don¡¯t worry, Grandpa Lan. I¡¯ll take care of it."


    Li Congren agreed without hesitation.


    ...


    Securing a ticket would take at least a month, as there weren¡¯t open slots avable every month.


    During this time, Lan Chang''an stayed at the Li Family¡¯s estate in Snow Plum Mountain.


    The Li Family was located fairly close to the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    ¡°Zhou Qingxuan... So she¡¯s now a Fake Dan cultivator and a Grand Elder of the Zhou Family?¡±


    At Snow Plum Mountain, Lan Chang''an received news from recent reports.


    Zhou Qingxuan possessed high-grade spiritual roots and had an outstanding talent for beast taming. Her aptitude and opportunities were even better than Zhao Siyao¡¯s.


    Originally, she had a fair chance of achieving True Dan.


    However, the bacsh from Huanglong Immortal had damaged her foundation.


    The separation of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu had injured her sea of consciousness, and the unaddressed gu worm restriction still left lingering effects.


    Achieving Fake Dan was something Lan Chang''an had expected.


    ...


    More than half a monthter.


    Li Congren had not yet returned.


    His wife, Wu Yue, came to see Lan Chang''an to discuss something.


    "Grandpa Lan, over the past few days, the Earth Burrowing Rat and the Golden Rat have be quite close. If the Earth Burrowing Rat bes pregnant, could we keep some of the offspring here at Snow Plum Mountain?"


    Wu Yue asked respectfully.


    Rat-type demon beasts typically give birth to litters of offspring once they are pregnant.


    This was one of the advantages demon beasts had when it came to reproduction. Though their initial intelligence and cultivation skills were not on par with humans, their ability to reproduce quickly was a clear advantage.


    Of course, for species that reproduced rapidly, it was harder to ensure that the offspring would inherit the full bloodline of their parents. There was a higher chance of lower-grade bloodlines appearing among the young.


    "Has Congren¡¯s spirit rat never produced offspring before?" Lan Chang''an nced at the in-looking yetposed Foundation Establishment female cultivator.


    "The Golden Rat has high standards and has never gotten close to ordinary rats before. Even this time, it was¡­"


    Wu Yue blushed and swallowed the rest of her words.


    Lan Chang''an chuckled inwardly.


    Li Congren¡¯s spirit rat had basically been forced into this pairing...


    Back when Li Congren had first visited Little Turtle Peak, the Earth Burrowing Rat had caught the scent of the Golden Rat and immediately showed interest. At the time, Lan Chang''an had asked Li Congren whether his spirit rat was male or female, and Li had replied that it was male.


    Later, when the Earth Burrowing Rat went to the Beast Taming Zhou Family for "training," it had been pampered by the other rat demons and enjoyed afortable life.


    The Zhou Family had even tried to breed the Earth Burrowing Rat due to its mutated bloodline, but the rat had never gotten pregnant during that time.


    Zhou Qingxuan had even remarked that the Earth Burrowing Rat was a lot like Lan Chang''an in that regard.


    "If the Earth Burrowing Rat does get pregnant, I¡¯ll let you have some of the offspring. However, the Earth Burrowing Rat will have the right to pick its favorites first."


    Lan Chang''an replied.


    He wasn¡¯t entirely sure whether the Earth Burrowing Rat would get pregnant this time.


    Based on past behavior, it likely wouldn¡¯t.


    But Li Congren¡¯s spirit rat had a high bloodline grade and was particrly attractive to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Li Congren returned safely and came to meet Lan Chang''an alone in his guest room.


    After Lan Chang''an set up a barrier to iste their conversation, Li Congren handed him a white jade token.


    "Grandpa Lan, I didn¡¯t let you down."


    "Thank you for your efforts."


    Lan Chang''an inspected the white jade token. His spiritual sense entered the token and found basic information rted to the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    The Xinyue Association was likely the Jing merchant association with which Li Congren had the most dealings.


    Lan Chang''an inquired about the situation and then handed Li Congren a pouch of spirit stones.


    In addition to the spirit stones needed for the ticket and bribes, Lan Chang''an also gifted Li Congren a superior-grade second-rank puppet.


    Li Congren was overjoyed, but after a few rounds of polite refusal, he bought the puppet at half price.


    In the early days of establishing his family in the frigid northern region, the puppets Lan Chang''an had sold him had been instrumental in helping him gain a foothold.


    "Grandpa Lan, in twenty days, you can board the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship bound for Jing with this identity token."


    Li Congren provided Lan Chang''an with the time and location.


    ...


    After securing the ticket, Lan Chang''an immediately called back the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Over the past few days, the Earth Burrowing Rat had been out roaming, barely showing itself.


    "Not pregnant?"


    Soon, Li Congren, Wu Yue, and a beast tamer arrived to examine the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    The results left Li Congren and his wife somewhat disappointed.


    After multiple checks, it was confirmed that the Earth Burrowing Rat had not be pregnant by the Golden Rat.


    Li Congren nced at the weary, significantly thinner Golden Rat at his feet.


    The Golden Rat had worked tirelessly day and night, nearly exhausting its vitality.


    Li Congren forced a smile, his heart aching.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, on the other hand, looked full of energy, its fur glossy and bright.


    Squeak!


    It bared its teeth slightly, and the Golden Rat, legs trembling, retreated into its owner¡¯s spirit pet pouch.


    "Congren, Yue¡¯e, since the Earth Burrowing Rat isn¡¯t pregnant, let¡¯s leave this matter for now. Grandpa Lan will take his leave."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t stay any longer. He packed up the Earth Burrowing Rat and bid them farewell.


    Wu Yue seemed as if she wanted to say something, but Li Congren held her hand, stopping her.


    Wu Yue didn¡¯t know where Lan Chang''an was heading.


    The Golden Rat had been put through all that effort with nothing to show for it. She felt they had been shortchanged and had wanted to invite Lan Chang''an to stay a bit longer.


    ...


    Five dayster.


    Several hundred li away from the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    Sitting atop therge turtle, Lan Chang''an closed his eyes, his hands forming a seal as he cast a spell from a distance.


    "Now that she¡¯s advanced to the Fake Dan stage, her lifespan has increased by a hundred years, and her sea of consciousness has strengthened significantly. In the future, the gu worm restriction should no longer need to be stabilized annually."


    "However, I¡¯ll be gone for at least several decades on this journey."


    Lan Chang''an stayed in ce for half a day.


    At some point, he opened his eyes, withdrew his Profound Water Turtle, and changed his appearance.


    He then flew westward along a branch of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    After a short time, the sound of something breaking through the air echoed nearby.


    Apanied by the pressure of a Fake Dan cultivator, a young woman with features as delicate as jade and eyes like obsidian descended on a cloud of light,nding at the very spot where Lan Chang''an had just been sitting.


    "Didn''t you agree to meet me here? Why did you leave early?"


    Zhou Qingxuan furrowed her nose and murmured softly.


    Even before forming her Fake Dan, Zhou Qingxuan had already possessed a quasi-third-rank beast that could rival ordinary Fake Dan cultivators.


    Now that she had advanced to Fake Dan, her strength had increased several times over.


    Suddenly, out of the corner of her eye, she spotted a jade slip lying on the ground where the lingering aura still remained.


    She picked it up and scanned it with her spiritual sense.


    After a brief moment, Zhou Qingxuan put away the jade slip, her expression a mix of joy and concern.


    The jade slip contained a method to stabilize the gu worm restriction. As a Fake Dan cultivator, her soul was strong enough toprehend it.


    Additionally, Lan Chang''an had left a message in the slip, stating that he was going to a remote location to prepare for Core Formation. He reminded her to be mindful of her actions and not to break the oath she had made all those years ago.


    "The method left behind by Lan Chang''an can only stabilize the gu restrictions and prevent them from acting up¡ªit can¡¯tpletely dissolve them. I¡¯ll have to wait for him to sessfully form his Core..."


    After a long moment of contemtion, Zhou Qingxuan turned and headed toward Wuqi Mountain.


    Two dayster, she arrived at Wuqi Mountain.


    Sweeping the area with her spiritual sense, she found that, as expected, Lan Chang''an was no longer at Little Turtle Peak. Both the Profound Water Turtle and the Earth Burrowing Rat were nowhere to be found.


    Only a gatekeeper and a maid remained on the mountain.


    Zhou Qingxuan descended onto Little Turtle Peak and chatted with the gatekeeper for a while, learning that the man had a bit of a connection with Lan Chang''an.


    She presented the gatekeeper, Qi Feng, with a meeting gift before taking her leave.


    "Hmm? A third-rank protective formation?"


    As she flew away from Little Turtle Peak, Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s spiritual sense instinctively swept over the nearby main peaks.


    Her scan was blocked by the formation around Xiao Pan Peak, and she nearly suffered a bacsh.


    Zhou Qingxuan was stunned. "Has a third-rank formation master appeared at Wuqi Mountain?"

 Chapter 219: Spirit Ship Crossing Nations

    In the western region of the Liang Kingdom stood a major cultivation town known as Zijing Immortal City. This city was situated near the kingdom¡¯s border and had trade rtions with the neighboring Jing Kingdom to the west.


    Especially during wartime, the Merchant Alliance of Jing Kingdom suppliedrge amounts of war materials and resources to the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom.


    The current war, led by the Golden Sun Sect and its allies, was essentially a defensive retaliation, though their deeper strategic intention seemed to be a "northern migration."


    Meanwhile, the Chen and Yan Kingdoms were observing from the sidelines, having struck some sort of agreement, and were not intervening.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    In the mountain range several hundred li north of Zijing Immortal City, a middle-aged man with a medium build, round face, and yellow beard flew toward the area on a spirit boat.


    ¡°There are no sect patrol cultivators nearby? The Jiuchen Merchant Association certainly has considerable influence,¡± the round-faced man mused, narrowing his eyes as he surveyed the area.This round-faced cultivator was none other than Lan Chang''an, who had disguised himself using the Hundred Illusions Mask and taken on a new identity.


    He flipped his hand and took out a white jade token, injecting his spiritual sense into it.


    A signal from the token pointed him to a steep, forested mountain several hundred zhang ahead.


    Lan Chang''an hesitated for a moment and did not rush in.


    Whoosh!


    Behind him came the sound of another cultivator flying over. A burly man with a purple face and a heavy murderous aura approached, one arm bandaged tightly in a sling.


    ¡°You here for the gathering too?¡± The purple-faced man nced at Lan Chang''an and pulled out his own white jade token.


    ¡°Mm,¡± Lan Chang''an nodded slightly,gging a little behind as they flew toward the steep mountain.


    Pop!


    The purple-faced man gripped his token and broke through an invisible illusion formation, entering a hidden area at the mountain peak.


    The supposed dense forest was actually an illusion. The mountain itself was bare, with only a few sparse trees.


    At the center of the area were severalrge rocks, scattered among which were thirty to forty cultivators.


    They varied in age and gender, with most being at the Foundation Establishment stage. There were also a few young Qi-Refining cultivators who had apanied their elders.


    ¡°Is the representative from the Jiuchen Merchant Association here?¡± the purple-faced man asked, looking toward the center of the gathering.


    No one responded, and an awkward silence fell over the group.


    ¡°Heh¡­¡± In one corner, a group of cultivators let out a few mocking chuckles, as if amused by the situation.


    The purple-faced man¡¯s expression darkened as he suppressed the violent aura radiating from him. He forced a grin and turned to chat with Lan Chang''an, who hade in with him.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name, Fellow Daoist?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Wu Fan, just a nameless wandering cultivator,¡± Lan Chang''an said casually.


    The purple-faced man introduced himself as Fang but didn¡¯t reveal his full background.


    Lan Chang''an assessed the man: his injuries were obvious, but his pure mana was stronger than that of most loose Foundation Establishment cultivators. The heavy murderous aura around him suggested he could be a deserter from the frontlines.


    Deserters like him were not umon in times of war, often bing wanted by their sects. If caught, their fates would be grim.


    The two struck up some small talk, asionally probing each other with cautious questions.


    ¡°The Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s representatives haven¡¯t shown up yet, even though this is the gathering point. What do you make of that, Fellow Daoist Wu?¡± Fang asked.


    ¡°The guild¡¯s representatives might not show up in person. They could simply arrive with the spirit ship to take us aboard. That way, if anything goes wrong, they don¡¯t have to take responsibility or leave any evidence behind,¡± Lan Chang''an replied, his insight offering little new information.


    Fang¡¯s eyes glinted as he lowered his voice. ¡°The Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s people could be mingling among us, watching each of the cultivators who have gathered here.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps.¡± Lan Chang''an remained expressionless.


    As they conversed, Lan Chang''an felt a subtle spiritual sense sweep over him and Fang.


    This spiritual sense was stronger than that of a typical Fake Dan cultivator, suggesting it came from someone skilled in spiritual probing.


    Fang¡¯s remark drew the attention of that Fake Dan-level spiritual sense, lingering on him for a moment longer than usual.


    Lan Chang''an, who had disguised himself as a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, disyed a mana aura fitting for a loose cultivator¡ªnot drawing much attention but not appearing weak either.


    ...


    Two hourster.


    As the sun dipped toward the horizon, the number of cultivators on the mountain peak had grown to over fifty, with more than half being at the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Lan Chang''an had identified the location of the Fake Dan cultivator who had been spying on them using spiritual sense.


    It was a kindly-looking elder dressed in a dark blue long robe, who spent most of his time with his eyes closed, seemingly resting.


    Lan Chang''an suspected this elder was a representative of the Jiuchen Merchant Association.


    As night fell, a sense of restlessness crept through some of the gathered cultivators.


    After all, most of those traveling to Jing were either fleeing or seeking refuge, and many were understandably anxious.


    ¡°It¡¯s here!¡±


    A low voice suddenly called out.


    Whoosh!


    The clouds overhead parted, and the air currents surged like waves.


    A blue spirit ship, about fifty or sixty zhang long, encircled in the glow of formation lights, rapidly descended from the sky.


    ¡°Fellow Daoists, please present your tokens and line up to board the ship.¡±


    A deep male voice came from the ship, apanied by the pressure of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    ¡°Anyone who disrupts order will forfeit their chance to board.¡±


    As the voice faded, the ship hovered about ten zhang above the mountain peak, lowering two gangways.


    At one gangway, four sharp-eyed cultivators in armor¡ªranging from mid- tote-stage Foundation Establishment¡ªstood guard, checking the boarding tokens. They appeared to be the ship¡¯s guards.


    The other gangway was guarded by two beautiful female Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    This second entrance was not open to the general group of cultivators.


    ¡°Master Wang, the upper-level suite on the third deck has been prepared for you.¡±


    Under the gaze of the crowd, a young man in a gold robe, with slicked-back hair and a paleplexion, boarded the ship with the assistance of two hunchbacked old servants and a young maid.


    The scene drew the attention of the surrounding cultivators.


    The golden-robed youth held not a white jade token, but a purple token!


    ¡°Who could this be? A descendant of some influential figure in the Liang Kingdom?¡±


    ¡°To be treated with such respect by the Jiuchen Merchant Association, he must be directly rted to a True Dan cultivator.¡±


    The cultivators on the mountain spected silently, feeling a mix of envy and resentment but not daring to show it.


    Lan Chang''an nced at the "Master Wang," noting that he had likely used a secret method to alter his appearance. Despite his early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation, he appeared to be in his thirties.


    The maid following him was at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment.


    As for the hunchbacked old servants, their true cultivation was unclear.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t dare use his spiritual sense to investigate further.


    With the war raging in the Liang Kingdom, even those fleeing to neighboring countries for refuge were ranked by priority. Important figures enjoyed much better treatment than ordinary cultivators.


    After the golden-robed youth, several more groups boarded through the second gangway.


    Some were individuals, while others were in small groups of two or three.


    Most of these people held green tokens and were given private rooms aboard the ship.


    It was easy to imagine that these people either came from powerful backgrounds or possessed extraordinary skills or knowledge.


    One of theter boarders was a white-browed elder in thete stage of Foundation Establishment. Lan Chang''an found him familiar¡ªhe had seen the man at an auction in Huanglong Immortal City, likely a quasi-third-rank artifact refiner.


    Such individuals would be treated as honored guests by the Jiuchen Merchant Association, even if they were seeking refuge in a foreign country.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an, who was headed to Jing with ns to achieve Core Formation, had no desire to draw attention to himself. He hadn¡¯t asked the Beast Taming Zhou Familys for help precisely for this reason.


    The secret of the ancient ruins and the news of killing the Golden Sun Sect cultivators were potential risks he couldn¡¯t control.


    Perhaps he would never be hunted for these acts, and the matters would simply be forgotten.


    After all, Mu Jiuan and the others would likely keep the Golden Sun Sect killings under wraps to avoid the embarrassment and scandal of their defeat, especially since they had been operating in enemy territory, which was already risky.


    As for the ancient ruins, there were even more variables.


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an had handed Lady Wei¡ªthe disciple of Liang Shaotian¡ªto Fairy Shi to deal with.


    If Fairy Shi had killed Lady Wei, the demonic sect might detect her death and begin investigating the ruins in the ck Fog Mountain Range. It would take them some time.


    If she had released Lady Wei, the demonic sect would still take time to hear her report, and since Lady Wei¡¯s memories of the ancient ruins were iplete, the demonic sect¡¯s leader might not even take it seriously.


    Moreover, the two Fake Dan cultivators who had died in the ruins were unlikely to have leaked any information, though it couldn¡¯t be ruled out entirely.


    On his way back from the ruins, Lan Chang''an had given Fairy Shi two suggestions.


    First, if she chose to release Lady Wei, she should make her swear a heart demon oath.


    Second, if possible, destroy the core of the ruins¡¯ formation to elerate the copse of the treasure vault.


    Fairy Shi had stated that only a third-rank formation master with expertise in the same school of formations would be able to attempt such a feat, and even then, without full confidence.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t sure what decision Fairy Shi had ultimately made.


    As for himself, his knowledge of formations was limited. He didn¡¯t have the ability to destroy an ancient formation without worrying about the bacsh.


    ...


    ¡°Xinyue Merchant Association? What¡¯s your name? Where are you from in the Liang Kingdom?¡±


    After waiting for a while, it was finally Lan Chang''an¡¯s turn to board.


    A heavily armoredte-stage Foundation Establishment man checked his jade token and asked a few questions.


    After presenting the token, Lan Chang''an underwent a simple inquiry and identity registration.


    The token provided by the merchant guild didn¡¯t have his name or other identifying information on it.


    This was quitemon. Most of the cultivators seeking refuge in Jing preferred to keep their identities hidden, using aliases instead of their real names.


    ¡°I¡¯m Wu Fan, from Huanglong Immortal City.¡±


    It was a formality. They simply recorded his cultivation and name, even if the information was false.


    Once the registration wasplete, a tall and thin guild cultivator led Lan Chang''an and four other Foundation Establishment cultivators to their amodations on the ship.


    ¡°Fellow Daoists, due to a shortage of cabins, we¡¯ll have to ask you to stay in the lower cargo hold.¡±


    The tall, thin guild cultivator apologized with a smile.


    ¡°The cargo hold?¡± The purple-faced man traveling with Lan Chang''an looked displeased.


    Most of the cultivators here had spent considerable effort and spirit stones to secure their ¡°tickets¡± for this cross-border journey.


    ¡°Our Jiuchen Merchant Association typically carries over a hundred cultivators from various factions in the Merchant Alliance on these cross-border trips. Given the number of honored guests from your kingdom, it''s natural that cabins are limited.¡±


    The guild cultivator smiled politely.


    He was only a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, but he seemed calm and confident in front of Lan Chang''an¡¯s group.


    There were more than just a few Fake Dan cultivators aboard the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship. They had a formidable escort team, as well as over a hundred cultivators from the Merchant Alliance.


    If any of the Liang Kingdom cultivators caused trouble, they could be expelled from the ship.


    And if anyone dared to resort to violence, the consequences would be severe.


    ¡°This spirit ship is fifty or sixty zhang long, with three levels of cabins. How could there not be enough single rooms?¡± Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    Not long after.


    Lan Chang''an and the other four were taken to the dim cargo hold below the deck.


    At this point, the cargo hold was already crowded with twenty or thirty cultivators, their varying auras mixing together.


    More cultivators were brought in afterward.


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly. Being crammed into a public cargo hold with so many other cultivators, safety, privacy, andfort were all in question.


    ¡°If you¡¯re dissatisfied with the cargo hold, there are still a few regr cabins avable on the upper deck. These cabins offer a second-rank spiritual vein environment, even when passing through spirit-deprived zones,¡± the guild cultivator offered in a low voice.


    Lan Chang''an exchanged a nce with the purple-faced man, who looked angry but eventually sighed and restrained himself.


    ...


    A quarter of an hourter.


    The spirit ship ascended into the sky, and the cross-border journey began.


    In a regr cabin on the ship¡¯s first deck.


    Lan Chang''an brewed a pot of tea and sat at a table, gazing out the window at the endless sea of clouds.


    For the price of three thousand spirit stones, he had upgraded from the grim cargo hold to a private cabin about ten square meters in size.


    Nearly half of the Liang Kingdom cultivators remained crammed into the dark cargo hold below deck.


    Three thousand spirit stones was not a trivial amount for a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Many of the cultivators had already spent four to five thousand spirit stones to secure their tickets, often using up favors and resources.


    By the time they reached the gathering point, they still needed to bribew enforcement cultivators along the way. Those who were unlucky might even have to sell their magical weapons to afford the trip.


    Most ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators had their spirit stones practically drained by the time they boarded the ship.


    Some were even traveling with younger rtives at the Qi-Refining stage. If they wanted to upgrade to a cabin, they would need to pay double the price.


    Each regr cabin could only amodate one person.


    As for the "Master Wang" who had boarded earlier, he was staying in a luxury suite.


    ¡°For some, this journey is an escape from disaster. For others, it¡¯s just a cross-border vacation,¡± Lan Chang''an mused, sipping his fragrant tea, a warmth spreading through him.


    ¡°Hm? Why is the ship veering northward?¡±


    Half a dayter, Lan Chang''an stood on the deck, gazing at thendscape through the shimmering formation light.


    He could sense a familiar aura from the direction of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Normally, the spirit ship should have continued westward toward Jing.


    To the northy the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    In fact, there was another, more dangerous route to Jing from the Liang Kingdom.


    That route led deep into the ck Fog Mountain Range, looping around before eventually heading south to Jing.


    However, this path was much longer and involved venturing deep into the mountains, where encounters with powerful demon beasts were a real possibility.


    Additionally, the outer edges of the mountains were patrolled by sectw enforcement cultivators, bandits, and the ever-elusive demonic sect members.


    ...


    As suspicion began to rise in Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind.


    The massive spirit ship slowly hovered to a stop near arge river at the edge of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    On the riverbank, a second-rank spirit boat carrying a man and a woman flew toward the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship.


    ¡°Are they picking someone up?¡±


    The cultivators aboard the ship, both from the Liang Kingdom and the Jing Merchant Alliance, were taken by surprise.


    For the cultivators of the Merchant Alliance, it was unusual for the spirit ship to deviate from its course to pick up additional passengers.


    It was extremely rare for the ship to change direction mid-journey.


    The cultivators on board eyed the pair on the spirit boat with curiosity.


    The boat¡¯s driver was a ck-d man in thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    In the center of the boat sat a long-haired woman, her face covered by a veil.


    Her veil concealed her aura and blocked spiritual sense from probing.


    Clearly, the two boarding midway had some significant backing, as none of the cultivators dared to use their spiritual sense to investigate.


    ¡°Please head to the third-floor cabin.¡±


    Several of the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s officials greeted the pair with courtesy as they boarded.


    Out of caution, Lan Chang''an refrained from using his spiritual sense to probe them.


    However, just by observing the woman¡¯s posture and figure, Lan Chang''an felt a sudden sense of familiarity.


    ¡°Why is she boarding the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship?¡±


    ...

 Chapter 220: Negotiations with the Merchant Association

    Chapter 220: Negotiations with the Merchant Association


    Upon recognizing the identity of the veiled long-haired woman, Lan Chang''an''s heart tightened, and he couldn''t help but feel a bit surprised.


    He recalled what Li Congren had mentioned about the Jiuchen Merchant Association:


    "The demonic sect gives this merchant association some leeway. Even if they encounter the demonic sect, they can pay off their troubles and avoid being wiped out."


    At the time, Lan Chang''an had merely thought that the Jiuchen Merchant Association had considerable influence, managing to navigate between both righteous and demonic paths.


    Now, however, he had the distinct feeling that he had boarded a ¡°pirate ship.¡±


    Who would have expected that the veiled woman, boarding midway, would turn out to be a direct disciple of the Demonic Sect¡¯s leader?


    "So, Fairy Shi ultimately decided to release this woman."


    Lan Chang''an mused silently. Given the increasingly chaotic situation at the borders in recent years, the demonic sect, which had been recuperating for decades, had now be a force to be reckoned with, wielding significant influence in the surrounding regions.The identity of Lady Wei carried even more weight than that of a direct disciple from one of the major sects in this area.


    Fairy Shi¡¯s decision made sense to Lan Chang''an. Even if she had killed Lady Wei, it wouldn''t have erased the threat. Once the demonic sect discovered her death, they would certainly seek revenge, as she was a direct disciple of their leader.


    Even if she hadn¡¯t killed Lady Wei, Lan Chang''an had already erased her memories of the events within the ancient ruin. Allowing her to leave had likely involved making her swear a heart demon oath.


    Even if the truth came to light one day, Fairy Shi¡ªbeing a third-rank formation master¡ªwould be a highly sought-after talent by major forces.


    Even as a Fake Dan cultivator, a third-rank formation master had a statusparable to that of a True Dan cultivator. In such a case, it wouldn¡¯t be easy for the demonic sect to move against her, and they might even consider recruiting her instead.


    "I wonder if Fairy Shi took my advice and destroyed the core formation of the ancient ruin, triggering the copse of the treasure vault before leaving."


    Back in his cabin, Lan Chang''an was curious about this. If Fairy Shi had managed to be a third-rank formation master, she would have had the ability to set off a chain reaction in the ancient formation and elerate its destruction.


    The woman who had just boarded the spirit ship, Lady Wei, would likely know the answer to this question.


    In the past, Lan Chang''an had casually held Lady Wei''s life in his hands, but now, he dared not reveal his identity to question her directly.


    From Lady Wei¡¯s treatment, he suspected that the Jiuchen Merchant Association had deep ties with the demonic sect.


    Decades ago, although the demonic sect had suffered defeat in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, they had learned from their mistakes and appeared to have gained a foothold in the neutral cultivation nation of Jing. There, they had likely infiltrated the Merchant Alliance.


    The structure of Jing¡¯s cultivation world differed from that of the Liang Kingdom.


    In the Liang Kingdom, sects held supreme power and absolute authority.


    In Jing, however, the Merchant Alliance was incredibly powerful, even capable of standing on equal footing with the kingdom¡¯s sects.


    The Merchant Alliance was a coalition of various merchant associations that banded together for mutual benefit. They upheld a belief in trade and freedom, controlling most of the immortal cities and marketces across the kingdom.


    Compared to the sects, the Merchant Alliance had a more flexible attitude toward the demonic sect and was more profit-driven.


    "If the Jiuchen Merchant Association is indeed coborating with the demonic sect, that might not be entirely bad for this cross-border journey."


    After thinking it over for a moment, Lan Chang''an felt a bit more at ease with the situation.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    The Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship had returned to its intended course and was gradually leaving the Liang Kingdom¡¯s borders.


    Lan Chang''an sensed the spiritual energy outside the ship growing increasingly thin, to the point of near depletion.


    Under such conditions, the effectiveness of many spells would be severely diminished.


    With slow flight speeds and difficult mana recovery, traveling alone during these chaotic times would indeed be dangerous and uncertain.


    At the very least, the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship had the strength to ward off the various robbers and bandits that gued the bordends.


    Looking out the window of his cabin, Lan Chang''an gazed back in the direction of the Liang Kingdom. The destendscape filled his view, stirring aplex mix of emotions.


    He was now 142 years old, having spent over 120 years cultivating in the Liang Kingdom. He inevitably had some ties to the people and ces in thatnd.


    However, Lan Chang''an had obtained aplete opportunity for Core Formation, including spiritual items, and now needed a stable environment to cultivate.


    He nned to reach the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage before seeking out a third-rank spiritual vein to form his Core.


    His departure had been rtively smooth, having met with old friends and sessfully traded for a Core Dissolution Technique.


    The only regret was that he hadn¡¯t been able to meet Zhao Siyao.


    When he arrived at Jin Yun Valley, Zhao Siyao was still in seclusion, preparing for her own Core Formation.


    Even her disciple, Zhao Tan, had been stationed on the frontlines, assisting in the war effort.


    ...


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Wu.¡±


    The restriction on his door was touched, and the purple-faced man from the neighboring cabin hade to visit.


    This burly man had been injured and had begrudgingly spent three thousand spirit stones to move into a cabin next to Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    Carrying a heavy murderous aura, he didn¡¯t mingle much with the other cultivators on the ship, but he seemed to get along with Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Please,e in, Fellow Daoist Fang.¡±


    Inside the cabin, the two chatted for a while about the ongoing war.


    During their conversation, the purple-faced man revealed his dissatisfaction with the upper echelons of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects.


    ¡°If the sects of the Liang Kingdom hadn¡¯t rashly started the war by invading another country, things wouldn¡¯t have turned out this way.¡±


    ¡°The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm was supposed to open in another three or four years. That was an important opportunity for many Foundation Establishment cultivators to gain ess to Core Formation resources¡­¡±


    The purple-faced man¡¯s tone was bitter, and there was a hint of hatred in his eyes.


    Because of the war, he had been forced to the frontlines and had nearly lost his life. Later, he became a deserter and was now wanted by his sect.


    Had it been peacetime, he would have had another few years to reach thete stage of Foundation Establishment and could have participated in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, where his strength would have been among the top.


    ¡°Because of the war, I fear the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm may not open as nned,¡± Lan Chang''an sighed, unsure of the situation himself.


    Given the war¡¯s developments, he had long since made his decision, opting to explore the ancient ruins instead of waiting for the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    There was one thing he didn¡¯t mention to the purple-faced man.


    Even if the sects of the Liang Kingdom hadn¡¯t invaded Feng, war would have eventuallye their way. That much had been clear from the intelligence reports Lan Chang''an had obtained from Tian Zhi Pavilion.


    ...


    ¡°Cultivators from the sect patrol!¡±


    As they chatted, amotion erupted from the rear of the spirit ship.


    Lan Chang''an and the purple-faced man stepped out of their rooms to investigate.


    Two spirit boats, each about ten meters long, were approaching from behind the ship.


    On each boat sat a Fake Dan cultivator, leading a team of twenty Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    ¡°Spirit ship ahead, prepare to be inspected!¡±


    The two spirit boats moved much faster than therger spirit ship, making it impossible to escape.


    The Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship didn¡¯t resist and came to a stop.


    Unless they were prepared to cease all trade, spirit ships from Jing would typicallyply with routine inspections from the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects.


    High-ranking True Dan cultivators from the sects patrolled the border, and the sect patrol cultivators could send out emergency distress signals if they encountered resistance.


    ¡°Two venerable seniors, our spirit ship was already inspected when we left Zijing Immortal City,¡± a middle-aged man in a schr¡¯s robe stepped forward, smiling but maintaining hisposure.


    The schr-robed man was a Fake Dan cultivator stationed on the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship.


    In fact, the ship had been given free passage since leaving the Liang Kingdom, and this was the first inspection it had encountered.


    ¡°We¡¯ve received new information suggesting that fugitives from the sect may have boarded your ship.¡±


    ¡°Rest assured, we¡¯re only here to apprehend fugitives. We have no intention of causing trouble for your guild.¡±


    The sect patrol cultivators were still rtively respectful toward the Jiuchen Merchant Association.


    After all, the three great merchant associations of Jing were backed by True Dan cultivators, with immense financial power and significant influence.


    ¡°Our Jiuchen Merchant Association will cooperate with the investigation. However, we ask that you avoid disturbing the important guests on the upper decks,¡± the schr-robed man said as he opened a passage through the ship¡¯s protective formation.


    One of the sect patrol¡¯s Fake Dan cultivators led a team of Foundation Establishment cultivators aboard the spirit ship to conduct their search.


    ...


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Wu, I¡¯ll return to my room for now.¡±


    The purple-faced man, his heart trembling and his legs growing weak, forced himself to remain calm as he hurried back to his neighboring cabin.


    The purple-faced man wasn¡¯t the only one who seemed nervous.


    Of the dozens of Liang Kingdom cultivators who had boarded the ship, many were fugitives or had identities they couldn¡¯t reveal.


    The next hour was a nerve-wracking ordeal for many of the passengers.


    The only good news was that the sect patrol cultivators didn¡¯t conduct a thorough search. They only asked a few simple questions in each room.


    Most of the cabins were upied by cultivators from the Jing Merchant Association.


    Only a portion of the passengers were Liang Kingdom cultivators.


    Soon, two patrol cultivators entered Lan Chang''an¡¯s room, their expressions wary.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Wu Fan.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s your purpose in traveling to Jing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a wandering merchant, traveling between the two nations to do some small business.¡±


    Lan Chang''an spoke calmly, showing no signs of nervousness.


    Strictly speaking, loose cultivators weren¡¯t subject to the same oversight as sect members.


    The two patrol cultivators studied Lan Chang''an for a moment, finding nothing suspicious, and left his room.


    They didn¡¯t even bother searching the luxury cabins.


    When two Foundation Establishment cultivators approached Young Master Wang¡¯s cabin, they seemed to receive a voice transmission of some sort, and immediately bowed and withdrew.


    An hourter, the sect patrolpleted their search.


    They apprehended seven fugitives and suspicious individuals, one of whom resisted and was killed on the spot.


    The Jiuchen Merchant Association not only did nothing to stop the arrest but even assisted in maintaining order.


    Of the seven arrested cultivators, two had been staying in cabins, while five had been in the cargo hold.


    Whew!


    The purple-faced man in the neighboring room let out a long breath, his back drenched in cold sweat as he watched the patrol cultivators leave.


    Lan Chang''an visited his room to inquire about the situation, but the purple-faced man¡¯s answers were vague.


    In truth, Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense had already revealed the truth.


    The purple-faced man, heavily injured and carrying a strong murderous aura, had drawn suspicion. When questioned by the sect patrol, he had bribed the cultivators with arge sum of money to escape arrest.


    ¡°The cabins offer a private space with formation restrictions, making it possible for bribes and negotiations to take ce discreetly,¡± Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    Half the cultivators on the ship were crammed into the cargo hold, while the other half had cabins.


    Of the seven arrested, five had been taken from the cargo hold, while only two had been taken from cabins.


    In the cargo hold, under the watchful eyes of others, it was impossible to openly offer bribes.


    Once you became a primary suspect, you would be arrested, with little room for maneuvering.


    Moreover, the patrol cultivators were selective in whom they targeted.


    Those staying in cabins were typically wealthier and more powerful. Some tough individuals, with hidden trump cards like talismanic treasures, could pose a real threat if they fought back, risking injury to the patrol.


    Of course, staying in a cabin didn¡¯t guarantee safety, but it did give passengers more control over their fate.


    Not all patrol cultivators were open to bribery, and some might not be so easily swayed.


    Lan Chang''an even suspected that each patrol might have a quota for arrests.


    ...


    The sect patrol¡¯s inspection was just a minor episode for the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s crew. They were used to such interruptions and didn¡¯t pay it much mind.


    However, over the next two days, several cultivators from the cargo hold approached the guild, hoping to pay spirit stones to move into the cabins.


    It had be clear that staying in a cabin offered greater safety and a higher chance of sessfully reaching Jing.


    ¡°What! Six thousand spirit stones to move into a cabin? It was only three thousand before!¡±


    The Liang Kingdom cultivators who tried to negotiate felt a chill in their hearts.


    The price of the cabins had doubled!


    ¡°I won¡¯t lie to you all, the cabins are nearly full.¡±


    ¡°The price increase is simply a fair way to screen those who can afford it,¡± the guild¡¯s steward said nonchntly.


    Most of the cultivators in the cargo hold were strapped for cash. After paying to board the ship, they had little left.


    In the end, only a handful of cultivators could afford to pay six thousand spirit stones to move into a cabin.


    To put it into perspective, a supreme-grade magic weapon was worth only two thousand spirit stones.


    Among Foundation Establishment cultivators, there were very few who could afford the kind of wealth that someone like Lan Chang''an possessed.


    ...


    In the following half month, the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship sailed smoothly.


    There were no further patrols from the sect, and no bandits dared to target the ship.


    During this period, the lives of many Liang Kingdom cultivators aboard the ship took a turn.


    Especially those in the cargo hold.


    Some of them, skilled in certain arts, signed indenture contracts with guild members in exchange for safety and a legitimate status in Jing.


    For example, they might agree to work for a guild for twenty years, earning a legal identity and safe passage to Jing.


    Some female cultivators from the cargo hold even resorted to selling their bodies to wealthy passengers in the cabins to scrape together enough spirit stones to move out of the hold.


    In the Liang Kingdom, a Foundation Establishment female cultivator might have been regarded as a high and noble figure, perhaps even the head of her n.


    Yet now, they humbled themselves and served at the feet of others.


    Even Lan Chang''an¡¯s door had been knocked on by such a female cultivator.


    ¡°Fleeing to another country, the journey is perilous, and it feels likembs being led to ughter. This path is truly unsuitable for ordinary cultivators¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an sighed to himself.


    While the cultivators in the cargo hold struggled for survival, Young Master Wang on the third deck was enjoying a life of luxury. Even as he fled to another country, he had beautiful maids attending to his every need.


    Lan Chang''an had been curious about Young Master Wang¡¯s identity and how he couldmand such deference from the sect patrol cultivators.


    At one point, he had considered using his spiritual sense to probe Young Master Wang¡¯s true face, but ultimately, he refrained.


    If the other party carried any special treasures that could sense the probe, it would only cause unnecessary trouble.


    ...


    One day.


    A trade fair was held in the assembly hall on the second deck of the spirit ship.


    All cultivators staying in the cabins were eligible to participate.


    The Liang Kingdom cultivators made up only a small portion of the attendees. Most of the participants were from the various merchant associations of Jing.


    Now that the ship was far from the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, there was no need to worry about another sect patrol.


    Lan Chang''an and the purple-faced man, Fang, attended the trade fair together.


    After bribing the patrol during thest inspection, Fang had few spirit stones left.


    He attended the trade fair mainly to make connections with cultivators from the merchant associations of Jing or to curry favor with influential Liang Kingdom cultivators.


    The assembly hall was spacious, with dozens of wooden tables set up for the participants.


    Cultivators could sell or purchase various items at these tables.


    During the fair, Lan Chang''an spotted Young Master Wang and Lady Wei.


    Young Master Wang¡¯s table had attracted quite a crowd, including both Jing merchants and Liang Kingdom cultivators.


    Lady Wei, however, wasn¡¯t selling anything. She wandered through the trade fair, asionally pausing at a table to inspect its offerings.


    From what Lan Chang''an could see, Lady Wei still hadn¡¯t fully recovered from her injuries.


    It seemed that after leaving the ancient ruins, she had encountered some trouble and sustained further injuries along the way.


    ...


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Wu, have you considered the offer I madest time?¡±


    As Lan Chang''an passed by a table, a sharp-eyed, wiry old man in his fifties smiled and greeted him.


    This old man, surnamed Jia, was a steward of the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    The Xinyue Merchant Association was the Jing guild that had sponsored Lan Chang''an¡¯s passage aboard the spirit ship.


    Of course, this had been arranged by Li Congren in secret. The contact person was someone else entirely.


    The steward Jia before him had no idea who Lan Chang''an truly was; he only knew that the Xinyue Merchant Association had rmended this ¡°Wu Fan¡± as a Jing cultivator.


    ¡°I¡¯m just a wandering cultivator, Fellow Daoist Jia. I¡¯m used to my freedom and have no desire to sign a twenty-year contract to serve under someone else,¡± Lan Chang''an replied frankly, declining the offer.


    A few days earlier, Steward Jia had approached him with a proposal to sign a twenty-year indenture contract to work as a guard for the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    During the contract period, the guild would provide him with ess to spiritual veins and cover his basic needs, such as spirit stones and spiritual rice.


    The biggest benefit of the offer was a legitimate guild identity, ensuring his safe passage to Jing.


    ¡°Think it over carefully, Fellow Daoist Wu. Today is yourst chance. I¡¯m offering you this opportunity out of goodwill, seeing as you¡¯re connected to our Xinyue Merchant Association,¡± Steward Jia said, his expression turning cold.


    ¡°If your guild is willing to offer me a position as a guest elder, then I might consider it,¡± Lan Chang''an said after some thought, not rejecting the offer outright.


    A guest elder position offered a higher status and much more freedom.


    Since Lan Chang''an nned to stay in Jing and cultivate to the peak of Foundation Establishment, he would need ess to a second-rank spiritual vein for quite some time.


    For his Core Formation attempt, he would require a third-rank spiritual vein.


    If he could establish good rtions with one of Jing¡¯s merchant associations, it could benefit his Core Formation n.


    ¡°A guest elder?¡± Steward Jia blinked in surprise, then asked, ¡°What skills do you possess?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re a second-rank mid-grade alchemist or formation master, or if your skills in any other field reach the second-rank superior grade, then we might be able to negotiate. However, you would still need to sign a twenty-year contract.¡±


    Lan Chang''an considered his options. Among his various abilities, only his puppet mastery and talisman-making skills had reached second-rank superior grades.


    ¡°I possess a second-rank low-grade skill. I¡¯m not insisting on bing a guest elder, but I¡¯m willing to serve as an external contractor for your guild. The contract should not exceed ten years, and it cannot restrict my personal freedom.¡±


    Lan Chang''an replied after some deliberation.


    Steward Jia chuckled dryly, a hint of mockery shing in his eyes, and he didn¡¯t bother responding further.


    ...


    At the trade fair, Lan Chang''an negotiated with two other guilds, but the terms they offered were just as harsh.


    Lan Chang''an began to suspect that these merchant associations felt confident in their ability to corner him, as if they weren¡¯t worried about him rejecting their offers.


    ...

 Chapter 221: Deceiving the Spirit Contract

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    This gathering resembled more of a social exchange than a typical trade event.


    Take for example, Young Master Wang. His background was astonishingly powerful, with ess to key resources. Merchants from the Jing Kingdom were all scrambling to befriend him.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu! I just heard that Young Master Wang is looking to recruit two guards, preferably cultivators from Liang Kingdom. This way, he¡¯ll have some subordinates at his disposal once we arrive in Jing Kingdom."


    The burly man with a purple face spoke with noticeable excitement.


    "Oh? If that¡¯s the case, perhaps you should give it a try, Fellow Daoist Fang."


    Lan Chang''an responded, going along with the flow of the conversation.


    The purple-faced man was one of the fewte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators among the Liang Kingdom cultivators on board the ship.


    Being recruited as a guard offered him a certain advantage due to his cultivation level. If he could secure such a powerful connection, not only would he ensure safe passage to Jing Kingdom, but there might also be opportunities to rise through influence in the future."Why don¡¯t you try, Fellow Daoist Wu?"


    "My abilities are average, and my temperament dull. I fear I wouldn¡¯t be able to serve someone of importance well."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head, uninterested. He had no desire to be bound by a contract that would restrict his freedom.


    During the trade fair, some of the cultivators from the Liang Kingdom had signed contracts with the Jing Kingdom''s Merchant Associations. Though they were exploited as cheapbor, it was still preferable to dying in the Liang Kingdom or being forcibly conscripted into the battlefield of immortal cultivators.


    For example, the purple-faced man, who was a deserter from the battlefield and was now wanted by his sect. Staying in the Liang Kingdom would only lead to certain death.


    Lan Chang''an spected that the guilds likely had a limited number of contracts they could issue, and would have to pay a price to the Jiuchen Merchant Association to acquire them. Thus, they would naturally aim to maximize their benefit when signing these contracts.


    At the trade fair, Lan Chang''an noticed the actions of Lady Wei. She had been negotiating with several skilled Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    These cultivators matched the qualifications the Xinyue Merchant Association had mentioned earlier regarding "offerings." They possessed mid-grade second-rank skills, which were highly sought after by major guilds. For such skilled individuals, the contract terms offered by the guilds were often more lenient.


    Lady Wei''s behavior caused Lan Chang''an to ponder deeply, and he started to form some theories.


    ...


    The next afternoon, the purple-faced man returned to his room, visibly dejected.


    Lan Chang''an quickly learned that the man had failed to secure a position as a guard for Young Master Wang and didn¡¯t even make it through the preliminary selection.


    After a brief moment of thought, Lan Chang''an understood why.


    The hunchbacked servant beside Young Master Wang was an enigma, but at the very least, he was likely a Fake Dan cultivator, with sharp instincts. The purple-faced man exuded a murderous aura, and as a deserter from the battlefield, his background was dubious at best, making him appear untrustworthy.


    The purple-faced man soon gave up on the idea of bing Wang''s guard. The following day, he joined the Xinyue Merchant Association and signed a servitude contract, bing one of their bodyguards.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, signing a contract with the guild may mean losing your freedom for a while, but it''s better than losing your life," the man tried to persuade Lan Chang''an after joining the guild.


    "Besides, sheltering under a big tree provides good shade. The guild will also provide cultivation grounds and resources."


    "Steward Jia even mentioned that about ten years ago, a cultivator from Liang Kingdom performed exceptionally well during his contract and ended up marrying the guild master''s daughter. Heter became one of the guild¡¯s leaders. His life now is far better than it ever was in Liang Kingdom!"


    Lan Chang''an chuckled silently. This story likely had a grain of truth, but it was surely an extreme exception.


    If the guild didn¡¯t asionally present such grand prospects, would anyone willingly sell themselves into hardbor?


    "Fellow Daoist Fang, would you mind letting me take a look at your spirit contract?"


    Lan Chang''an had a sudden thought and made the suggestion.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, what are you implying?" The purple-faced man, Fang Zhong, raised an eyebrow in hesitation.


    "There¡¯s a saying in the mortal world: ''There''s no such thing as an honest merchant.'' I just want to check if there are any hidden uses in the contract."


    Lan Chang''an said cautiously.


    Fang Zhongughed, "I¡¯m not inexperienced. The terms in that spirit contract are straightforward."


    With that, he pulled out a scroll made of yellowed leather and handed it over for Lan Chang''an to examine.


    "A second-rank spirit contract... Fang Zhong... Xinyue Merchant Association¡­"


    Lan Chang''an scrutinized the wording and the obligations of both parties but found nothing suspicious.


    From the contract, Lan Chang''an learned Fang Zhong''s full name, though it could easily be an alias. However, that didn¡¯t affect the binding nature of the contract. As long as a cultivator left their mana imprint on the contract, it became effective.


    This mana imprint contained a unique trace of the cultivator¡¯s soul. Its binding force was nearly as strong as a heart demon oath, with additional effects of mana bacsh and location tracking within a certain range.


    Even if someone managed to escape, they would find it impossible to survive in Jing Kingdom, effectively bing fugitives.


    A second-rank spirit contract like this one, due to its effectiveness, cost between one and two thousand spirit stones, and was protected by the Jing Kingdom''s Merchant Alliance.


    "Indeed, there''s nothing wrong here."


    Lan Chang''an nodded and returned the contract scroll to Fang Zhong.


    After Fang Zhong left, a faint smile crept onto Lan Chang''an''s lips.


    This type of second-rank spirit contract mainly restricted cultivators at or below the Foundation Establishment stage. If someone at the Fake Dan stage signed it, the penalties for breaking the contract were minimal.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense and body refinement had both reached the Fake Dan level, so he naturally didn¡¯t fear signing such a contract.


    Moreover, his "Hundred Illusions Mask" could simte someone else''s mana signature, allowing him to deceive the spirit contract. After all, it was only a second-rank contract and had exploitable loopholes.


    Lan Chang''an made up his mind to find a rtively lenient guild and sign a contract.


    ...


    After several days of private interactions, Lan Chang''an found a suitable target.


    A guest room on the second floor of the spirit ship.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu ims to be a second-rank alchemist. Can you concoct some pills as proof?"


    The man sitting in the main seat, a handsome young master dressed in silk robes and wearing a jade crown, spoke directly. He was the representative of the "Wufu Merchant Association," and the apanying guild cultivators addressed him as Young Master Xia.


    "Wu''s skills are humble. I¡¯ll refine a batch of second-rank recovery pills, which should be quick toplete."


    Lan Chang''an had no intention of letting them set the challenge, mainly because his alchemy skills were rathercking.


    He avoided revealing his abilities in talisman crafting or puppetry, as he feared it would expose his identity.


    After all, the ancient ruins and the incident where he killed a Golden Sun Sect cultivator still posed potential dangers. Since he was heading to an unfamiliar Jing Kingdom, it was better to be cautious.


    In the Liang Kingdom, people only knew Lan Chang''an as a talisman master. Only a select few close to him knew that he also dabbled in puppetry.


    As for his attainments as a second-rank alchemist, no one knew about it.


    "Young Master Xia, please take a look."


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an sessfully refined a batch of three second-rank, low-grade Recovery Pills.


    After inspecting the quality of the pills, Young Master Xia remained expressionless. He passed the pills to an elderly man with a thin mustache.


    The mustached elder carefully examined the pills, sniffing them before furrowing his brows slightly.


    "Young Master, Wu Fan is indeed a second-rank alchemist, but his techniques are rather mediocre, and he likely doesn¡¯t have any particrly exceptional skills."


    The mustached elder, ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, whispered through a sound transmission to Young Master Xia.


    "Well, as long as he¡¯s a second-rank alchemist, that¡¯s good enough for the guild and my n. If he were any more skilled, the Wufu Merchant Association wouldn¡¯t even stand a chance of recruiting him."


    Young Master Xia sighed inwardly, replying via voice transmission.


    After confirming Lan Chang''an''s abilities, Young Master Xia proceeded to ask more questions, subtly probing into his background.


    When recruiting cultivators from the Liang Kingdom, the guild had to guarantee their identities. If it turned out they were spies from enemy nations or notorious criminals causing trouble within Jing Kingdom, the guild would be held ountable.


    "Young Master Xia, isn¡¯t a twenty-year contract period a bit too long?"


    Lan Chang''an voiced his dissatisfaction.


    Young Master Xia exined, "All cultivators signing contracts on this ship, especially from your nation, have a minimum contract term of twenty years. This cannot be changed."


    "Moreover, we¡¯re offering you a second-rank spiritual vein cultivation ground, as well as basic spirit stones and resources. You¡¯ll even have attendants and concubines to serve you if you wish..."


    "We can also reduce your required annual pill output by thirty percent. Any extra pills you refine will bepensated at the standard rate."


    Lan Chang''an engaged in some token bargaining. After some discussion between Young Master Xia and the mustached elder, they eventually agreed to his terms.


    Lan Chang''an reflected that although this deal didn¡¯t match the conditions of a full consecration, it was still a fair employment contract within reason. The only drawback was the low basepensation and the lengthy contract duration.


    However, recruiting a cultivator required the Wufu Merchant Association to guarantee his identity and pay a fee to the Jiuchen Merchant Association. Purchasing a second-rank spirit contract was also an additional expense.


    Therefore, among the guilds Lan Chang''an had negotiated with, Wufu Merchant Association''s terms were rtively lenient.


    This leniency was partly because the Wufu Merchant Association wasn¡¯t very powerful and had a need for second-rank alchemists. In contrast, otherrger guilds had far more stringent conditions.


    ...


    A quarter of an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an signed a second-rank spirit contract with Young Master Xia, who represented the guild.


    The terms of this contract were much more flexible than the one Fang Zhong had signed.


    Using the "Hundred Illusions Mask," Lan Chang''an simted someone else¡¯s mana signature and left his imprint on the spirit contract.


    Thus, once they reached Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, whether he honored the contract would depend entirely on Lan Chang''an''s mood.


    "Young Master Xia, now that I¡¯m an external cultivator contracted to your guild, can you guarantee my safe passage to Jing Kingdom?"


    Lan Chang''an asked.


    "As long as we don¡¯t encounter demonic cultivators, our guild guarantees your safe arrival in Jing Kingdom. Once you enter our nation¡¯s borders, there will be a final identity check. With the spirit contract in hand, you¡¯ll pass through easily."


    Young Master Xia¡¯s tone softened considerably as he patiently answered.


    "What are the chances we¡¯ll encounter demonic cultivators?"


    Lan Chang''an had already inquired about this earlier on the ship and learned that the greatest danger came from encounters with demonic sects.


    The Jiuchen Merchant Association had enough influence to buy their way out of trouble, but it wasn¡¯t always a sure thing.


    "Perhaps a ten to twenty percent chance."


    Young Master Xia remained calm.


    "If we¡¯re unfortunate enough to encounter them, don¡¯t panic. As long as you¡¯re not a high-priority target for them, you can always pay a ransom to avoid trouble."


    "Ten to twenty percent?"


    Lan Chang''an thought of Lady Wei and felt that the probability was likely far higher than that.


    ...


    Before he knew it, the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship had been flying through the destends between the two nations for a full month.


    They were already halfway through the journey.


    Lan Chang''an felt somewhat relieved. With less than half the journey remaining, even if they encountered unexpected danger and he had to make his way to Jing Kingdom alone, the risk would be significantly lower.


    This region, closer to the Jing Kingdom, was less affected by the cultivation wars and posed fewer riskspared to the areas near the Liang Kingdom.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, you actually joined the ''Wufu Merchant Association''?"


    "That guild¡¯s prospects are bleak. Their businesses have been under pressure from the Xinyue Merchant Association for years and have suffered consecutive losses. They¡¯re on the verge of copse."


    Fang Zhong had apparently gotten wind of the news from somewhere and felt that Lan Chang''an had made a poor choice.


    Initially, Fang Zhong had invited Lan Chang''an to join the Xinyue Merchant Association alongside him, but thetter had refused and instead joined the weaker Wufu Merchant Association.


    It was only now that Lan Chang''an learned that the Wufu Merchant Association and Xinyue Merchant Association were actually rivals.


    Lan Chang''an chose the Wufu Merchant Association because they seemed more flexible and their terms were lenient¡ªnothing more. He had no particr interest in joining the Xinyue Merchant Association, even if their terms had been less stringent.


    After all, his ticket onto this ship had been obtained through the Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s channels, thanks to Li Congren. If Lan Chang''an joined the Xinyue Merchant Association, they would likely investigate his background. A deep enough investigation might lead to them discovering his true identity.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, I toast to you! Whatever the future holds, before we reach Jing Kingdom, I consider you a friend."


    Fang Zhong downed a cup of spirit wine, speaking in a hearty, forthright manner, his face turning even more purple from the alcohol.


    Lan Chang''an could sense the underlying meaning behind his words and responded with a smile, raising his own cup in return.


    Meanwhile...


    On the deck at the front of the spirit ship.


    A refined young man in golden robes stood side by side with a veiled woman, both gazing at the sea of clouds below them.


    "Young Master Wang, in just over ten days we¡¯ll reach Jing Kingdom. Do you think the demonic sects will attempt to strike?"


    Lady Wei brushed her hair aside, her dark eyes and smooth forehead faintly visible beneath the veil. Her cold, delicate features were slightly obscured, but still enough to hint at her beauty.


    "Lady Wei, you need not worry."


    Young Master Wang spoke confidently, his voice resolute:


    "As long as I am here, even if demonic cultivatorse, what of it?"


    Boom!


    A deafening, earth-shaking roar reverberated from the distant sky.


    Young Master Wang''s heart trembled violently, and his face turned pale in an instant, filled with a sudden sense of dread.


    At that moment, every cultivator aboard the spirit ship felt their blood surge and ears ring.


    "Not good!"


    The hunchbacked elder, who had been meditating not far away, abruptly stood up, his expression changing drastically.


    Whoosh!


    He quickly rose to his feet, shielding Young Master Wang alongside a beautiful maiden, and hurried him back to the upper-ss cabin.


    "Ah..."


    Lady Wei covered her face with her hands, seemingly panicked.


    No one noticed the mocking smile tugging at the corners of her lips beneath her veil.


    ...


    Inside the cabin on the lower deck, both Lan Chang''an and Fang Zhong were startled by the suddenmotion.


    "What was that sound?"


    Fang Zhong hurried out of the room, anxiously looking toward the distance.


    "A third-rank Great Demon? And it''s apanied by intense demonic energy?"


    Lan Chang''an closed his eyes and used his spiritual senses to probe, his expression shifting.


    Buzz!


    The Jiuchen Merchant Association''s spirit ship activated all of its formations, slowing down to maintain internal stability.


    Moo¡ª


    From about six to seven li away, a ck storm, mixed with strange mists, swirled in the sky, apanied by a bone-chilling roar.


    The cultivators aboard the spirit ship used their spiritual vision techniques to peer into the distance, their hearts pounding in fear.


    In the distance, a massive dark iron-colored demon bull, as tall as a tower with hooves like giant pirs, stomped through the sky amidst ck winds and fiery wrath. Its every step sent tremors through the earth, leaving trails of destruction for over a li.


    Boom! Crack!


    Under its enormous hooves, a Merchant Association''s spirit ship over thirty zhang long began to split apart, the sound of tearing wood and metal resonating as the ship buckled under the pressure.


    Inside the spirit ship, ck winds and mes roared, and the agonized screams of dying cultivators were slowly swallowed by the chaos.


    "The ck Wind Demon Bull! It''s the sacred beast of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect!"


    Several knowledgeable Merchant Association cultivators turned pale, their voices trembling as they spoke.


    The ck Wind Demon Bull possessed an upper earth-grade bloodline. Its body was as tough as steel, and its strength was overwhelming. It excelled in dark wind magic, making its attacks devastating.


    Nearby, two teams of dark-robed cultivators were mercilessly ughtering the injured survivors who had escaped from the wrecked spirit ship.


    "Xiang Jinglong! You''ve joined the demonic sect and are aiding their atrocities! Liang Kingdom''s sects will one day cut you down!"


    A green-robed woman with a Fake Dan cultivation level, blood dripping from her lips and her spiritual energy dim, copsed to the ground, powerless.


    "Pah! Old hag, how mighty you were when you hunted me down back then!"


    The wheat-skinned Xiang Jinglong, dressed in a golden-embroidered wide robe, stomped down on the female Fake Dan cultivator from the me Departing Pce.


    The woman''s ribs cracked as shey there, her voice filled with despair: "Xiang Jinglong... you killed the descendant of an Elder... you won¡¯t escape your doom..."


    "What elder¡¯s descendant? What are you talking about?"


    Xiang Jinglong''s face darkened, his expression growing sinister.


    Years ago, he¡¯d gotten into trouble at the Mo Family¡¯s marketce, his identity almost exposed over a trivial matter. Though the evidence wascking, he was inexplicably ced on me Departing Pce¡¯s wanted list.


    Over the years, he had firmly established his demonic sect, trying to uncover the reasons behind this grudge, but had found no clues.


    Now, hearing this from the green-robed woman, he felt he was closing in on the truth.


    Xiang Jinglong lifted the woman, intending to question her further.


    But to his dismay, she had already be a corpse, her body still warm.


    To prevent further humiliation and torture, the woman had used herst remaining bit of spiritual power to shatter her heart meridian, ending her own life.


    "How infuriating!"


    Xiang Jinglong''s face twisted with rage. He cast his gaze toward the massive spirit ship hovering several li away.


    "Xiang Immortal, that¡¯s the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship."


    The leader of the other team of dark-robed cultivators, a mid-aged Fake Dan cultivator, gave a knowing smile.


    ...


    Onboard the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship, the crew braced themselves for battle, trying to steer clear of the disaster zone.


    However, the spirit ship was massive and far slower than Fake Dan cultivators or smaller, more agile flying vessels.


    Moo¡ª


    The third-rank demon, the ck Wind Demon Bull, was impossibly fast. In just a few breaths, it had caught up.


    Xiang Jinglong and the other demonic Fake Dan cultivator led their teams to encircle the spirit ship.


    With Lan Chang''an''s extensive experience in escaping danger, he knew this was no time for rash actions. Otherwise, they might attract the full attention of the third-rank demon and the Fake Dan demonic cultivators.


    For now, the spirit ship had at least two or three hidden Fake Dan experts, both in the open and in the shadows.


    It was best to wait until the situation escted and the major yers'' attention was diverted. Only then would it be the optimal time to act.


    Moreover, as long as Lady Wei was still on board, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t overly concerned for his own safety.


    The rest of the cultivators on the spirit ship, however, were in a state of panic.


    Unlike Lan Chang''an, they were unaware of the underlying dynamics at y.


    To their knowledge, the Jiuchen Merchant Association only had one visible Fake Dan cultivator aboard¡ªthe Confucian-robed middle-aged man who was currently inmand.


    "Xiang Immortal, we are legitimate merchants from Jing Kingdom. We¡¯ve paid our dues every time we pass through. Could we not¡­"


    The Confucian-robed middle-aged man greeted them with a strained smile.


    He nced up at the enormous shadow cast by the ck Wind Demon Bull overhead, his eyelids twitching.


    "Cut the nonsense! Lower the formation! I¡¯m only here to capture suspicious cultivators from Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects!"


    Xiang Jinglong growled impatiently.


    The Confucian-robed middle-aged man gave a helpless smile and exchanged a few words with the stewards of the major guilds before finally ordering the formation to be deactivated.


    "Everyone stay inside the spirit ship. Anyone who dares to step outside will be killed on sight!"


    Xiang Jinglong and the other Fake Dan demonic cultivator boarded the spirit ship from the front and back, inspecting every room.


    This inspection was far more thorough than the one conducted by the sects of the Liang Kingdom.


    Every corner of every room, from the most modest to the most luxurious, was scrutinized without exception.


    The ck Wind Demon Bull hovered menacingly in the sky, its terrifying, chilling wind sorcery suffocating the cultivators below.


    The two demonic Fake Dan cultivators closely monitored the inspection process in each room.

 Chapter 222: Identity in Jing Kingdom

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Once they took control of the spirit ship, the two teams of demonic cultivators began their search from the lower levels, working their way up.


    At first, several screams echoed from the cargo hold below.


    "Liang Kingdom sectckeys, kill them!"


    "Can''t pay the ransom?"


    "I''m contracted to a merchant guild. Could I borrow some spirit stones from the guild?"


    Lan Chang''an silently observed the situation. Other than cultivators suspected of belonging to sects, most people were able to ransom their lives by paying a fee.


    In general, a loose cultivator''s status was better than a family-affiliated one, and much better than someone tied to a sect.


    For Liang Kingdom cultivators under contract, if they couldn¡¯te up with enough spirit stones, they could borrow from their merchant guild.Of course, this added debt gave the guild further control over them, tightening the grip of their indentured servitude.


    Because there was still hope for survival, and due to the overwhelming power of the demonic sects, hardly any cultivators chose to resist.


    Cultivators from Jing Kingdom''s merchant guilds, who had to do long-term business, preferred to spend money to avoid cmity.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an suspected that the Jiuchen Merchant Association, who ran the ship, had some secret dealings with the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect.


    The demonic sect''s search was extremely thorough.


    It took half an hour before Lan Chang''an finally heard footsteps approaching his room.


    Two demonic cultivators entered.


    At that same moment, Lan Chang''an sensed the spiritual sense of a Fake Dan cultivator lingering over him.


    "Name, identity, origin?"


    One of the demonic cultivators, ate-stage Foundation Establishment practitioner, held a special magical weapon and questioned him.


    "I am Wu Fan, a loose cultivator from Liang Kingdom, now contracted to the Wufu Merchant Association of Jing Kingdom."


    Lan Chang''an produced the spirit contract he had signed earlier.


    The demonic cultivator took the contract, examined it carefully, and asked a few more probing questions to verify his identity as a loose cultivator.


    Since Lan Chang''an truly was a loose cultivator, his answers were wless.


    With no issues regarding his identity, he was not a primary target of the demonic sect, meaning his life wasn¡¯t in immediate danger.


    "Loose cultivators at the Foundation Establishment level must pay six thousand spirit stones. For those associated with Jing Kingdom''s merchant guilds, only half is required."


    "Here is the ransom."


    Lan Chang''an responded promptly, producing three thousand spirit stones.


    He carried over a hundred thousand spirit stones¡ªan amount far exceeding what most Fake Dan cultivators possessed¡ªso parting with a mere three thousand was inconsequential.


    Still, every unnecessary expense on this journey was noted in his mind.


    Paying for the ticket had been unavoidable. However, the excessive room fees and now the ransom payment felt like exploitation, and Lan Chang''an made a mental note to settle this debt someday. It wasn''t deep hatred, but life was long, and the path of cultivation tedious. There would be chances to repay this treatment.


    "Open your storage pouch!"


    A glint of interest shed in the demonic cultivator¡¯s eyes.


    The Liang Kingdom cultivators they''d inspected earlier had been thoroughly squeezed dry¡ªeither stripped of most of their valuables or forced to borrow from their guilds.


    It was rare to encounter a cultivator like Lan Chang''an who could still produce three thousand spirit stones without hesitation.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression shifted, and he hesitated briefly.


    "Hurry up! What are you waiting for?"


    Urged on by the demonic cultivators, he opened his storage pouch.


    After checking its contents, the two demonic cultivators looked disappointed.


    The pouch had few remaining spirit stones, and the other items were only of average value for a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    What little was there wasn¡¯t worth extorting or pressing further.


    Lan Chang''an remained expressionless, watching as the two demonic cultivators left.


    This situation had been anticipated long before he moved into the cabin.


    His more valuable items, including another storage pouch and a spirit beast bag, were wrapped in shadowstone materials that blocked detection. They were hidden in a corner of the room under concealment wards.


    Unless a True Dan cultivator personally examined the room, they wouldn''t be able to detect anything.


    Lan Chang''an had passed the inspection with ease.


    Next door, however, the purple-faced man, Fang Zhong, wasn''t so lucky.


    The demonic cultivators, using their special weapon, discerned that the techniques he practiced originated from a Liang Kingdom sect.


    "I am a sect traitor! A battlefield deserter! I¡¯m listed on the wanted boards... I beg the holy sect to investigate!"


    Fang Zhong¡¯s face turned deathly pale as he confessed everything.


    "A sect traitor on the wanted list? Let him go."


    Nearby, Xiang Jinglong, now one of the demonic sect''s Fake Dan cultivators, pulled out a jade slip for verification before issuing the order.


    Fang Zhong was as relieved as if he had received a royal pardon. His spirit stones were almost depleted, so he offered up his magic weapons, pills, and talismans as coteral, barely scraping together the ransom.


    ...


    Two hourster, the demonic cultivators had finished searching the rooms on the first and second floors of the spirit ship.


    Almost none of the Jing Kingdom merchant guild cultivators had been harmed.


    However, some Liang Kingdom cultivators had been killed, and several "suspicious individuals" were taken away.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that many of those taken were particrly skilled Liang Kingdom cultivators.


    Some of these skilled artisans had even negotiated with Lady Wei at the earlier trade fair.


    Because Lan Chang''an had deliberately concealed his true skills, he avoided attracting any unwanted attention.


    The Liang Kingdom cultivators on this ship were, in essence, illegal stowaways, dependent on others for their survival.


    Being able to safely reach Jing Kingdom would already be a stroke of luck.


    There was no way they could expect to receive the same treatment they might have enjoyed back in the Liang Kingdom, regardless of whether they were once powerful Foundation Establishment patriarchs or respected craftsmen.


    Only if they reached the Jing Kingdom and gained legal status could they hope to regain their former prestige.


    "They¡¯re finished with the second floor. Now they¡¯re heading to the third."


    Lan Chang''an observed Xiang Jinglong and another Fake Dan demonic cultivator leading most of the team to the third floor.


    The third floor of the spirit ship housed many high-end cabins, and the cultivators staying there, regardless of their nation of origin, had significant backgrounds.


    Even the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect had to proceed with caution when dealing with them.


    During the search, the demonic cultivators were noticeably more courteous, conducting themselves ording to proper etiquette.


    "Take her away!"


    Lady Wei, the veiled woman staying in one of the luxury cabins, was taken by the demonic cultivators as a "suspicious individual."


    Lan Chang''an spected: When Lady Wei boarded the ship, she had injuries. Perhaps she had encountered some trouble and was using the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship to flee from the Liang Kingdom and return to the demonic sect.


    At the same time, she acted as an informant on the ship, gathering intelligence on various cultivators and identifying valuable targets.


    "Hmm? Young Master Wang''s cabin... Why are they leaving that forst?"


    Lan Chang''an noticed the route the two Fake Dan demonic cultivators were taking and made a guess.


    Based on the position of Young Master Wang''s room, it shouldn¡¯t have been left forst.


    It seemed the demonic sect was doing so deliberately.


    "They''re searching from the bottom up."


    "Once a cultivator is searched, although they¡¯ve been bled dry by the ransom, they¡¯re out of danger and have no reason to resist further."


    A gleam shed in Lan Chang''an''s eyes as he began to specte on the demonic sect''s motives.


    Crash!


    The window of Young Master Wang¡¯s luxury cabin on the third floor was shattered with a single palm strike.


    "How dare you!"


    Xiang Jinglong and the other Fake Dan demonic cultivator had already been on guard. They immediatelyunched a punch and a palm strike, unleashing a torrent of powerful Core energy that sealed off the window and blocked any escape route.


    "Young Master, save me!"


    A beautiful Foundation Establishment maid screamed in terror as she was thrown out the window.


    With a loud boom, she was caught by the violent Core energy and reduced to a bloody mist.


    Boom!


    Young Master Wang¡¯s room exploded, the impact shaking the entire ship.


    The spirit ship''s main framework was made from top second-rank materials and was incredibly sturdy.


    The rest of the building materials, while of slightly lower quality, were reinforced with spells, making them difficult to damage for ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    However, under the assault of Fake Dan cultivators, these buildings were like fragile paper.


    "Demonic scum! How dare you challenge the authority of the me Departing Pce!"


    A thunderous roar erupted like a spring storm.


    The hunchbacked elder apanying Young Master Wang unleashed a dazzling blue me, resembling a zing furnace, which incinerated and evaporated the Core energy attacks from Xiang Jinglong and the other Fake Dan cultivator.


    "Old fool! The me Departing Pce can barely fend for itself, yet you dare act all high and mighty!"


    "Tsk tsk, the war isn¡¯t even over, yet your pce¡¯s elders are sending their descendants to neighboring nations. Won¡¯t the frontline cultivators feel betrayed when they find out?"


    Xiang Jinglong and his partner showed no panic as they split up and engaged the hunchbacked elder from both sides.


    Moo¡ª


    The ck Wind Demon Bull above let out a deep, unsettling bellow and opened its maw to unleash a wave of dark wind, engulfing the hunchbacked elder.


    The hunchbacked elder grabbed Young Master Wang, preparing to escape using a secret technique, but the terrifying force of the wind pulled him back, as if he were sinking into a quagmire.


    "Young Master, go on ahead!"


    The elder pushed Young Master Wang away with a mighty shove.


    His face flushed red, his abdomen swelling as his Core mes suddenly contracted and took on a blood-red hue.


    His spiritual pressure surged, nearing the early stage of the True Dan level.


    Boom! Whoosh!


    The hunchbacked elder spat out a protective treasure, which expanded into a giant wall of mes, burning fiercely as it blocked the dark wind from the ck Wind Demon Bull for a brief moment.


    "Capture Young Master Wang!"


    Xiang Jinglong led several Foundation Establishment cultivators in an attempt to surround and kill him.


    Magic treasures, tools, and beams of light from various spells converged on Young Master Wang, who had flown a hundred zhang away.


    Boom!


    With a loud bang, his body shattered into thousands of splintered wooden pieces.


    "A substitute puppet!"


    Xiang Jinglong''s face darkened as his spiritual sense swept through every corner of the area, searching for Young Master Wang¡¯s true form.


    "Young Master Wang used a Minor Teleportation Talisman."


    Suddenly, a voice transmitted into his ear, it was Lady Wei¡¯s voice.


    "A Minor Teleportation Talisman? We''ve been watching the whole time. When did he escape?"


    Xiang Jinglong couldn¡¯t believe it.


    "In the instant when you three Fake Dan powers shed, it masked his movements."


    "Fortunately, I had contact with Young Master Wang earlier and, using the Void Spirit Pearl, locked onto his aura."


    Though she appeared to have been captured, Lady Wei was secretly coordinating the entire operation.


    "That old fool is fighting to the death. Leave him to the ck Wind Demon Bull."


    "You two, follow me. Let¡¯s capture Young Master Wang alive. If we seed, the sect master will surely reward us!"


    ...


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Two teams of demonic cultivators sped off on flying boats, heading southwest in pursuit.


    Gasp!


    The hunchbacked elder shed several times with the ck Wind Demon Bull, his protective treasure shattering, and he spat blood.


    His face grew pale, his aura weakened, and he had to use a third-rank escape talisman, transforming into a zing meteor as he fled in the direction of Liang Kingdom.


    The ck Wind Demon Bull, however, unleashed its ferocious dark winds, kicking up a sandstorm as it locked onto the elder and quickly gained ground.


    "Even with several third-rank life-saving talismans, if you run into a powerful True Dan cultivator or a Great Demon that specializes in speed, escape is still unlikely."


    Watching from the first-floor cabin, Lan Chang''an took in the scene, silently noting the warning signs.


    At his current strength, he was only unafraid of Fake Dan cultivators, but if he attracted the attention of a True Dan cultivator, the risks would be substantial.


    At the Core Formation stage, the gap between minor realms was immense, a mid-stage True Dan cultivator was more than twice as powerful as an early-stage one.


    The ck Wind Demon Bull, with its upper Earth-grade bloodline, possessed strength nearly on par with a mid-stage True Dan cultivator.


    This demon bull wasn¡¯t like the specialized Profound Water Turtle; it was theplete package, a well-rounded powerhouse excelling in strength, spells, defense, and speed, with almost no weaknesses.


    Even Lan Chang''an''s most powerful treasure talismans would struggle to inflict serious harm on it.


    Above the True Dan stage,te-stage Core Formation cultivators represented the pinnacle of a sect''s strength.


    Even the weakest sects in the Liang and Jing Kingdoms had at least e-stage Core Formation cultivator as their pir.


    "That hunchbacked elder is doomed. I wonder if Young Master Wang will be able to escape the demonic sect¡¯s pursuit."


    As Lan Chang''an pondered this, the Jiuchen Merchant Association''s spirit ship resumed its course.


    Order was restored within the ship, as the guild cultivators and bodyguards worked to calm the passengers.


    ...


    A few dayster, the spirit ship entered a dangerous area gued by perpetual icy rain.


    As far as the eye could see, a vast expanse of pale gray rain filled the sky. The rain carried a chilling, corrosive force.


    These treacherous zones between the Liang and Jing Kingdoms had appeared before, though it wasn¡¯t the first time they had encountered such natural hazards.


    Fortunately, though this spirit ship wasn¡¯t particrly fast, its protective capabilities were strong, allowing it to pass through these zones smoothly.


    However, the spirit stones required to power the ship¡¯s defenses consumed a significant amount of resources.


    The ship''s speed also slowed considerably.


    It was these vast distances,bined with spiritual energy depleted zones and natural danger zones, that had kept Jing Kingdom, a mid-tier cultivation nation, from being easily swallowed up by its neighbors.


    Half a monthter...


    The spirit ship''s speed noticeably increased.


    "We¡¯re getting close to Jing Kingdom."


    Lan Chang''an sensed the spiritual energy in the surrounding area beginning to stir, as if awakening.


    Spiritual energy depleted zones affected the power of spells, including a cultivator''s ability to fly and the efficiency of formations.


    If they had been traveling through a normal cultivation nation, the journey would have taken just half a month.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Along the way, they asionally encountered Jing Kingdom cultivators flying through the sky.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, once we reach ''Lonely Sun Immortal City,'' I¡¯ll help you apply for a merchant guild-certified identity token."


    Young Master Xia of the Wufu Merchant Association took the initiative to visit Lan Chang''an''s cabin, extending some courtesy with his words.


    The journey¡¯s dangers were now behind them.


    For the merchant guilds, their only leverage over these cultivators was the second-rank spirit contracts they had signed.


    Other than the high-end guests in the luxury cabins, most of the Liang Kingdom cultivators, who had essentially stowed away, were under contract with the merchant guilds.


    The contract Lan Chang''an had signed was rtively lenient, closer to a typical employment agreement. This was fundamentally different from the indentured servitude contracts signed by people like Fang Zhong.


    "Then I¡¯ll trouble Young Master Xia."


    Lan Chang''an cupped his hands in thanks.


    During their conversation, Lan Chang''an learned more about the Wufu Merchant Association.


    The Wufu Merchant Association had originally been established by five Foundation Establishment families who had banded together.


    At the time, the families had been weak, with most having only a single Foundation Establishment ancestor as their protector.


    By joining forces and intermarrying, the five families had weathered hundreds of years of trials and had earned a stable position within Jing Kingdom¡¯s Merchant Alliance. Their strength was not to be underestimated.


    Young Master Xia¡¯s full name was Xia Mingqu, and he was the current heir to the Wufu Merchant Association, belonging to the Xia Family¡ªthe most powerful of the five.


    "Dare I ask, does your guild possess a second-rank high-grade spiritual vein?"


    "My Xia family and the main headquarters of the guild both have second-rank high-grade spiritual veins."


    Xia Mingqu answered with a smile.


    This young master, with his fair skin and jade-like features, had an appearance and demeanor that stood out even among the cultivators Lan Chang''an had encountered.


    Half a dayter...


    The Jiuchen Merchant Association''s spirit ship descended upon a towering mountain city shrouded in white light.


    Lonely Sun Immortal City was a major border town in Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, boasting a thriving trade scene. Its scale even surpassed that of Huanglong Immortal City.


    The Liang Kingdom cultivators disembarking from the ship had to undergo identity verification by the merchant guilds.


    Thanks to Xia Mingqu¡¯s assistance, Lan Chang''an presented his second-rank spirit contract and passed the inspection smoothly.


    When Lan Chang''an¡¯s feet touched the ground of this neutral cultivation nation, he felt an unfamiliar sense of security.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu! It seems we part ways here."


    Fang Zhong, speaking in a neutral tone, bid farewell to Lan Chang''an before returning to the Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s ranks.


    Lan Chang''an responded with a faint smile and waved him off, watching as they went their separate ways.


    ...


    Half an hourter...


    Lan Chang''an stepped out of the merchant guild¡¯s main hall in the center of Lonely Sun Immortal City, examining a bronze token in his hand.


    "This is your identity token within the merchant guilds. Carrying this token allows you to travel freely within Jing Kingdom¡¯s various immortal cities and marketces, and engage inwful trade."


    Xia Mingqu exined.


    Lan Chang''an nodded in understanding, expressing his gratitude once more.


    Without the Wufu Merchant Association¡¯s contract and assistance, he wouldn¡¯t have been able tond so easily and obtain the status of a Jing Kingdom merchant guild cultivator.


    ncing at the Jing Kingdom cultivators bustling around the city, many of whom were dressed as wandering merchants, he smiled and asked, "Young Master Xia, how do you n to arrange my next steps? Will I be heading to the Xia family¡¯s territory or to the Wufu Merchant Association?"


    Having sessfully settled in Jing Kingdom...


    The Hundred Illusions Mask had sessfully disguised his aura, fooling the second-rank spirit contract.


    In reality, Lan Chang''an could now find an opportunity to slip away. The Wufu Merchant Association would be powerless to stop him.


    However, he had just arrived in Jing Kingdom, an unfamiliarnd. What he needed now was a stable ce to cultivate, preferably one with a second-rank high-grade spiritual vein.


    The Wufu Merchant Association had helped him solve many problems and spent both money and effort on him.


    Aside from the contractual obligations, Xia Mingqu had also treated him with respect.


    Lan Chang''an decided to go along with things for now.


    He would temporarily honor the contract and join the Wufu Merchant Association as a second-rank alchemist, albeit a mediocre one, to spend a few years cultivating.

 Chapter 223: The Master of Autumnwind Isle

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Two hourster, Lan Chang''an boarded a flying boat from the Wufu Merchant Association and departed from Lonely Sun Immortal City, a prominent border town of Jing Kingdom.


    There were six cultivators aboard the flying boat, three of whom were in the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Besides Lan Chang''an, there was Xia Mingqu and the elderly man with the mustache whom he had seen on the spirit ship earlier. This elder, ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, was addressed as "Uncle Chen" by Xia Mingqu.


    At first, Lan Chang''an assumed this elder was a senior member of the Xia Family, but after Xia Mingqu¡¯s introduction, he learned that the man¡¯s name was Wu Chen, and he was one of the elders of the Wufu Merchant Association¡¯s Elder Council.


    Additionally, Wu Chen was the patriarch of the Wu Family, one of the five families that made up the Wufu Merchant Association. The Wu and Xia families had a close rtionship, often intermarrying.


    A few days into the journey, the three Qi-Refining cultivators aboard the boat disembarked at a marketce where the Wufu Merchant Association had a storefront.


    "Uncle Chen, no need to escort us any further. I¡¯m confident I can bring Fellow Daoist Wu safely to our family''s territory," Xia Mingqu said via sound transmission.


    They had now arrived near Elder Wu Chen¡¯s family grounds, and it would be out of the way to continue on to the Xia Family¡¯s territory."It¡¯s not far. I¡¯ve got nothing else to do, so taking a few extra days won¡¯t matter," Wu Chen replied, ncing at Lan Chang''an before rying his thoughts via sound transmission.


    Six dayster¡­


    The flying boat arrived at Changhong River in the southeastern region of Jing Kingdom, near Qingsha Bay.


    Lan Chang''an could feel the strong spiritual energy in the area, far surpassing what he had sensed back at Wuqi Mountain.


    Passing through an illusion formation surrounded by mist, the flying boat entered the heart of Qingsha Bay, where the Xia Family¡¯s territoryy.


    The area boasted a scenicbination of water bays, riverbanks, small inds, and mountains. This natural beauty was nourished by a mid-grade second-rank spiritual vein, forming an enchantingndscape of vibrant greenery and serene waters.


    The heart of the family¡¯snd was protected by a powerful quasi-third-rank formation.


    "Young Master," a patrolling Xia Family cultivator greeted as he flew over.


    "Nephew Xia, I¡¯ll be off then," Elder Wu Chen didn¡¯t stay long after delivering Lan Chang''an and Xia Mingqu to the Xia Family¡¯s grounds. He left with peace of mind.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, this way, please."


    Xia Mingqu led Lan Chang''an deeper into the Xia Family''s core territory.


    As they flew past, the Xia Family cultivators they encountered curiously nced at Lan Chang''an, though their reactions were indifferent.


    Disguised as "Wu Fan," Lan Chang''an appeared as an unremarkable middle-aged man with a round face and a in demeanor. His looks and aura were somon that he didn¡¯t spark much interest.


    Even the young female cultivators of the Xia Family, who briefly nced at him, lost interest and paid him no further attention.


    A short whileter...


    Xia Mingqu led Lan Chang''an to a steep peak, from which a waterfall cascaded down.


    This was the most spiritually concentrated area in the Xia Family¡¯s territory, nearly at the level of a quasi-third-rank spiritual vein.


    "The Water Curtain Cave?"


    Lan Chang''an noticed a cave behind the waterfall, with a stone tablet nearby carved with three ancient characters.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, please wait here. I¡¯ll inform the patriarch."


    Xia Mingqu left a quick instruction before entering the cave.


    Before long, Xia Mingqu returned and invited Lan Chang''an inside.


    The interior of the Water Curtain Cave was filled with stgmites, with night pearls scattered throughout, illuminating the cave like a starry sky.


    In a stone hall within the cave, Lan Chang''an finally met the Xia Family''s patriarch, Xia Hongyu, the most senior member of the family.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, let¡¯s speak in private."


    Xia Hongyu was over two hundred years old, but with a body like a jade tree and a handsome face, at first nce, he looked less than forty years old.


    This Fake Dan Immortal had only a hint of gray at his temples. But upon closer inspection, one could sense the weight of years and experience in his presence.


    Lan Chang''an understood that he was facing a fellow cultivator who was also skilled in the arts of longevity, but whose cultivation far surpassed his own.


    "I heard from Mingqu that you are a loose cultivator from the Liang Kingdom, hailing from Huanglong Immortal City?" Xia Hongyu asked, a hint of curiosity in his tone.


    His calm and unblinking gaze fell upon Lan Chang''an.


    "That¡¯s correct."


    Lan Chang''an sensed a faint ripple of spiritual sense. Xia Hongyu¡¯s eyes gleamed subtly, using a probing technique to inspect him.


    If Lan Chang''an¡¯s disguise had been an ordinary form of facial alteration or bone-shrinking technique, no matter how expertly done, it would still have been exposed under the deliberate scrutiny of a Fake Dan expert.


    "Several decades ago, I visited Huanglong Immortal City myself and even had the chance to meet ¡®Huanglong Immortal¡¯ once or twice."


    Xia Hongyu smiled as he brought up Huanglong Immortal City, steering the conversation in that direction.


    As they conversed, Lan Chang''an quickly realized that Xia Hongyu did indeed have some familiarity with Huanglong Immortal City.


    Not only had he met Huanglong Immortal, but he also had knowledge of important figures in Huanglong Mountain, like Ji Yifeng and Fu Xuemei.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had indeed spent time as a loose cultivator in Huanglong Immortal City. When faced with Xia Hongyu''s probing questions, he responded wlessly.


    "I only advanced to a second-rank alchemist in recent years. At the time, Huanglong Immortal City was in turmoil, so I left early to avoid getting caught in the chaos."


    Lan Chang''an added some details to solidify his fabricated background.


    In these wartime conditions, verifying the identity of a random Foundation Establishment loose cultivator across nations would be troublesome.


    There were countless loose cultivators in Huanglong Immortal City. It would be impossible to trace the exact details of every Foundation Establishment cultivator, and there would always be some who hid their identity and cultivated in a low-key manner.


    However, being a second-rank alchemist was different. Alchemists were more easily traceable.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, our family and the guild will need you to help with the production of basic second-rank pills going forward. Of course, your primary responsibilities will be to the Xia Family, and it would be ideal if you could also mentor a few alchemy apprentices."


    After Xia Hongyu¡¯s probing techniques and casual questioning, he was now fairly confident in Lan Chang''an¡¯s identity.


    More importantly, Lan Chang''an had signed a second-rank spirit contract. Breaking the contract woulde at a great cost, making it nearly impossible for him to operate within the Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    "Rest assured, Patriarch Xia. I will honor the contract. However, alchemy is only my secondary focus. Cultivation is my main path, and I can only dedicate part of my time to alchemy."


    In the contract Lan Chang''an had signed, there were specific limitations on the amount of alchemy he was required to perform.


    If the demand for pills exceeded the basic requirements, he had the right to charge extra or even refuse. He could also raise prices if the workload became too heavy.


    Xia Hongyu was not upset by Lan Chang''an¡¯s bargaining. In fact, it reassured him.


    After all, protecting one¡¯s own interests showed that Lan Chang''an intended to fulfill the contract with sincerity.


    "This jade slip contains a second-rank alchemist''s inheritance, including some pill recipes. Since Fellow Daoist Wu recently became a second-rank alchemist, you may find it useful for reference."


    As a gesture of goodwill, Xia Hongyu presented a jade slip with an alchemical inheritance as a weing gift.


    The inheritance he offered was only for low-grade second-rank alchemists, but it would still be beneficial for someone who had only recently advanced to that level. Higher-grade inheritances could be offeredter.


    However, Lan Chang''an had been a second-rank alchemist for many years and wasn¡¯tcking in alchemical knowledge.


    "At present, there are two cultivation grounds within the Xia Family¡¯s territory that would be suitable for Fellow Daoist Wu. I¡¯ll have Mingqu show you around."


    Xia Hongyu finished the conversation and called Xia Mingqu back in.


    Xia Mingqu then led Lan Chang''an into the skies above Qingsha Bay to show him the avable cultivation grounds.


    ...


    After surveying the area, Lan Chang''an rejected Xia Mingqu¡¯s first rmendation, a cultivation ground deep within the family¡¯s core territory, which boasted a high-grade second-rank spiritual environment.


    "Wu prefers a quieter setting. I think the location of ''Autumnwind Isle'' suits me better."


    Lan Chang''an pointed to a wide bay dotted with small inds, some of which were clearly man-made.


    Among these inds, the most remote one, surrounded by turbulent waters, was called "Autumnwind Isle."


    The ind was less than two li in circumference and covered with trees bearing orange leaves.


    Although the spiritual energy wasn¡¯t as abundant as at the first location, the wood-elemental energy was stronger here.


    "Autumnwind Isle?"


    Xia Mingqu hesitated for a moment but ultimately said nothing and flew with Lan Chang''an toward the ind.


    Autumnwind Isle was shrouded by a formation, and it appeared that someone was living there.


    "Aunt Wenyue."


    Xia Mingqu called out as he sent in a voice transmission talisman.


    Seeing Lan Chang''an¡¯s curious expression, he exined, "This cultivation ground is currently being looked after by one of my senior rtives."


    After a brief wait, the formation on Autumnwind Isle opened, and out flew a delicate young woman in a light blue gauze dress. Her eyebrows were thin as willow leaves, and herplexion was as pale as jade.


    "Mingqu, you¡¯re here?" The young woman coughed lightly, her sickly white face tinged with a hint of frailty.


    Her starry eyes darted anxiously toward Lan Chang''an, and a faint sorrow lingered between her brows, giving her an air of vulnerability and fragility.


    Lan Chang''an was a bit surprised. Xia Mingqu had referred to this woman as "Aunt," so he had assumed she would be much older.


    However, sensing her lifespan, he realized that she was likely several decades younger than Xia Mingqu.


    Such situations weren¡¯t umon in cultivation families. For instance, a Foundation Establishment ancestor over a hundred years old might take a young concubine, and their children would be born with a high seniority rank.


    "Aunt Wenyue, this is Alchemist Wu, a newly recruited Foundation Establishment cultivator for the family," Xia Mingqu introduced.


    "Greetings, Alchemist Wu." Xia Wenyue bowed respectfully, casting a brief nce at the in-looking, round-faced middle-aged man.


    "From now on, Autumnwind Isle will be Alchemist Wu''s cultivation ground."


    "Understood." Xia Wenyue lowered her head, biting her lip gently as she replied in a soft voice.


    Xia Mingqu, feeling a pang of sympathy, sighed inwardly before turning to Lan Chang''an with a smile.


    "Alchemist Wu, shall we take a look inside?"


    Xia Wenyue stood still, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears as she watched the two men step onto Autumnwind Isle.


    Lan Chang''an examined the ind below. In the center was arge courtyard, with buildings that were exquisitely designed, clearly once used by a female cultivator.


    Behind the courtyard was a deep pond, over ten zhang wide¡ªan ideal ce for his Profound Water Turtle to inhabit.


    Lan Chang''an nced around. The peaceful and secluded atmosphere of this ce suited him well.


    "Young Master Xia, what¡¯s the story behind this ce and the young woman just now?" Lan Chang''an asked, wanting to rify any lingering issues before making his decision.


    "Aunt Wenyue¡¯s mother was my great-aunt, a former elder of the Xia Family who made great contributions to both the family and the guild. Ten years ago, she passed away under tragic circumstances..."


    "ording to family rules, the descendants of Foundation Establishment elders can only reside in their family estates for up to five years. However, out of respect for her mother¡¯s contributions, the patriarch allowed Aunt Wenyue to stay here for over ten years. For thest few years, she has remained here under the pretext of caring for the estate."


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, you can rest assured that there are no unresolved issues here. Aunt Wenyue is reasonable and won¡¯t harbor any resentment."


    After hearing Xia Mingqu¡¯s exnation, Lan Chang''an nodded, refraining from further inquiry.


    He sensed that Xia Mingqu was reluctant to discuss Xia Wenyue¡¯s mother in detail.


    Moreover, Xia Wenyue followed her mother¡¯s surname, and Xia Mingqu had made no mention of her father.


    ...


    As they entered the courtyard in the center of Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an noticed several items and pieces of furniture clearly intended for female use.


    "Alchemist Wu, could you give me half an hour to pack my belongings?"


    Xia Wenyue followed them, her pale, delicate face flushing slightly with embarrassment as she hurriedly gathered her personal items.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t bothered by this and stepped outside the courtyard with Xia Mingqu to wait.


    While they waited, Lan Chang''an inspected the ind¡¯s spiritual environment. On the surface, the ind was a mid-grade second-rank area, but the deep pond in the center seemed connected to the earth¡¯s spiritual veins, with lively spiritual energy flowing through it.


    If he set up a spirit-gathering formation and infused spirit stones, it could easily reach the level of a high-grade second-rank spiritual ground.


    "Alchemist Wu, Aunt Wenyue has lived here for a long time and is quite attached to the ce. Would you consider allowing her to stay on as the estate¡¯s caretaker or as a servant? She could help manage the ce more efficiently."


    Xia Mingqu made a request on her behalf.


    Although Xia Wenyue was a Qi-Refining cultivator with mediocre aptitude, serving as a mere servant seemed a bit degrading for the daughter of a deceased family elder.


    However, this was Xia Wenyue¡¯s personal request.


    If the ind were ever assigned to another family elder, she hoped to remain here, even if only as a servant.


    Lan Chang''an hesitated. "I¡¯ve always preferred solitude. I¡¯ve just arrived in the Xia Family¡¯s territory and don¡¯t fully understand the situation. Perhaps we can consider this matterter."


    "My apologies for being presumptuous."


    Xia Mingqu smiled apologetically, not pressing the issue.


    He assumed Lan Chang''an was simply cautious about Xia Wenyue¡¯s background or didn¡¯t want the family assigning him a servant.


    "Congrattions, Fellow Daoist Wu, on bing the new master of Autumnwind Isle."


    Xia Mingqu didn¡¯t linger long, politely taking his leave.


    A short whileter¡­


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s frail figure emerged from the courtyard.


    "Alchemist Wu."


    She forced a smile, her face growing even paler as she bowed to Lan Chang''an, then reluctantly left the ind.


    As she departed, Lan Chang''an extended his spiritual sense to observe her condition.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s body was frail and prone to cold, likely suffering from a long-term illness. She wasn¡¯t well-suited to living on such a damp ind.


    ...


    That same day, Lan Chang''an began making ns to set up his new cultivation ground.


    The ind¡¯s existing formations and spirit-gathering array would remain untouched, covering the entire Autumnwind Isle as the outeryer of defense.


    Focusing on the courtyard and the deep pond behind it, Lan Chang''an nned to set up his own formations.


    Before leaving Little Turtle Peak, he had dismantled the coreponents of the quasi-third-rank formation.


    This formation had originally been set up by Fairy Shi.


    Now, Lan Chang''an intended to transnt the core of this formation to the courtyard of Autumnwind Isle.


    A quasi-third-rank formation might attract too much attention, so Lan Chang''an nned to divide it into twoyers¡ªan obvious outer formation and a concealed inner one.


    The outer formation would be a superior-grade second-rank formation, while the inner one would have stronger concealment properties.


    Together, thebination of the twoyers would form a quasi-third-rank formation.


    With this formation in ce, no one in the Xia Family would be able to spy on Lan Chang''an¡¯s activities within his own cultivation ground.


    Ten dayster¡­


    Lan Chang''an had made considerable progress in setting up the formation at his new cultivation site.


    The deep pond behind the courtyard was now part of the formation.


    His Profound Water Turtle would dwell in the pond. If visitors arrived, the turtle could use its aura-concealing abilities to dive to the bottom of the pond, where the formation would help it remain undetected, even by most True Dan cultivators.


    As for his Earth Burrowing Rat, it would stay within the courtyard or underground, quietly practicing its shapeshifting technique.


    Once the rat mastered its technique, it could transform into a different type of rodent and work around the ind without raising suspicion.


    Earth Burrowing Rats weren¡¯t particrly rare, so as long as it didn¡¯t appear alongside the Profound Water Turtle at the same time, and as long as no cultivators from the Liang Kingdom happened toe by, Lan Chang''an¡¯s identity would remain hidden.


    "The Xuantian Gourd Vine needs to take root in the ground to truly grow. Hmm, I¡¯ll need to find a safe, hidden spot to work on this¡­ no rush for now."


    "The cultivation world of Jing Kingdom has a more advanced economy than Liang Kingdom. It should be easier to find Life Extension Pills and materials for a quasi-third-rank puppet."


    "The Earth Burrowing Rat will soon reach the peak of the second-rank. Once I¡¯ve settled down in Jing Kingdom, I¡¯ll need to n for its Core Formation."


    "Additionally, I¡¯ll need to stay informed about the cultivation war in the Liang Kingdom, as well as any news about Fairy Shi, the ancient ruins, and the Golden Sun Sect¡­"


    Having newly arrived in Jing Kingdom, Lan Chang''an had many ns for the future.


    However, for now, he hadn¡¯t yet established a firm footing, and hecked connections and knowledge of the local environment. It wasn¡¯t wise to move too quickly.


    ...


    One monthter¡­


    Lan Chang''an had fully settled into his new identity as an external cultivator for the Xia Family and the master of Autumnwind Isle,pleting his first peaceful month in Jing Kingdom.


    Soon, the Xia Family sent over the first batch of materials for him to begin alchemy.


    In truth, the Wufu Merchant Association already had a superior-grade second-rank alchemist as an elder, but the elder was old andcked the energy to meet all the demand for pills.


    The Xia Family had once nurtured a new-generation alchemist, but that person had defected and been poached by another faction.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s arrival was intended to help with the production of ordinary second-rank pills, easing the pressure on the guild''s supply.


    If he could mentor and train some alchemy apprentices, that would be even better.


    Alchemy required a great deal of talent and insight.


    Without a teacher¡¯s guidance, even with an inheritance, it would be difficult for an apprentice to learn on their own.

 Chapter 224: Three Years in Jing Kingdom

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Time flew by, and in the blink of an eye, two or three years had passed. Lan Chang''an, who had initially arrived in the cultivation world of Jing Kingdom, had spent his time cultivating quietly in the Xia Family''s territory within the Wufu Merchant Association, specifically in their ¡°Qingsha Bay¡± area.


    Apart from his main duty of alchemy, Lan Chang''an rarely interacted with others, spending most of his time at his Autumnwind Isle cultivation ground. His presence became a familiar but distant one to the Xia Family¡¯s cultivators, who gradually grew ustomed to the quiet, middle-aged alchemist from a neighboring nation.


    Compared to his early years, the higher-ups of the Xia Family were far less wary of him now. Their surveince and scrutiny had significantly diminished.


    Several months ago, the Xia Family''s leadership had invited Lan Chang''an to participate in an important internal meeting. However, he declined without hesitation, citing that it had nothing to do with his alchemical responsibilities outlined in his spirit contract.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s purpose foring to Jing Kingdom was to secure a stable cultivation ground, advance to the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage, and ultimately seek Core Formation. He had no interest in the internal affairs of the Wufu Merchant Association or the Xia Family.


    Besides, the invitation was likely just a test from the family to gauge his intentions.


    "Up!"


    On this day, inside the alchemy room of Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an performed a series of incantation gestures, activating his alchemy technique.Buzz!


    Therge, purple-copper cauldron in front of him, about a zhang tall, flickered with spiritual patterns and emitted a wave of heat. The cauldron¡¯s lid trembled before being lifted smoothly by a stream of spiritual light.


    As the rich fragrance of medicinal herbs filled the air, three sparkling, plump purple pills flew out from the cauldron¡¯s heat andnded in Lan Chang''an¡¯s palm.


    Lan Chang''an carefully examined the three pills. Two of them had four distinct Dao lines on their surface, indicating they were low-grade second-rank pills. The third pill had only three and a half lines, making it a inferior substandard pill.


    Of course, inferior pills were not unusable. They simply had lower efficacy, more impurities, and a higher likelihood of containing some residual pill toxins.


    "Little Ming, take these three Tranquil Heart Pills to the storeroom," Lan Chang''an said, handing the bottle containing the pills to a round-faced, fair-skinned young man dressed as an alchemy apprentice.


    This youth was Xia Mingcheng, one of the two apprentices who assisted Lan Chang''an in his alchemy.


    Alchemy was not only a matter of skill but also required significant physical endurance. Many high-quality pills took more than a few days toplete, and having skilled apprentices was indispensable for any dedicated alchemist.


    This allowed the alchemist time to cultivate without significant interruptions.


    When refining simpler pills or those with lower value, Lan Chang''an would often delegate the more stable, repetitive steps to the apprentices, allowing them to watch over the process. This saved him energy and gave the apprentices valuable training opportunities.


    "Yes, Alchemist Wu," Xia Mingcheng respectfully epted the task and retreated.


    Thoughbeled as an apprentice, Xia Mingcheng was actually a first-rank mid-grade alchemist, and Lan Chang''an regarded him as a half-disciple of sorts.


    In terms of alchemical talent, Xia Mingcheng also surpassed Lan Chang''an.


    "The number of opportunities and experience I''ve umted in these past few years far exceeds the past two decades of closed-door training," Lan Chang''an mused.


    His alchemy skills had improved significantlypared to when he first arrived in Jing Kingdom.


    Although he had achieved the level of a second-rank alchemist many years ago, his progress had stagnated due to ack of natural talent and insufficient practice. The opportunities to refine pills were scarce, and his skills had barely advanced.


    However, in the Xia Family, opportunities to practice alchemy were plentiful. The Xia Family or the Wufu Merchant Association provided all the necessary materials, and the variety of pills he had refined here far exceeded what he had ever attempted before.


    In such an environment, Lan Chang''an''s alchemy skills had naturally improved. Though advancing to the level of a mid-grade second-rank alchemist remained difficult, he could at least feel his steady progress.


    Most of his alchemy duties involved refining pills for the Xia Family, with some additional tasks for the Wufu Merchant Association. On paper, Lan Chang''an was a member of the Wufu Merchant Association, as he had signed a spirit contract with them. However, in practice, he was an external cultivator hired by the Xia Family.


    After all, the Xia Family provided his cultivation ground, his daily resources such as spiritual rice, and his remuneration for alchemy. Additionally, the Xia Family had paid a sum of spirit stones to the Jiuchen Merchant Association when they signed Lan Chang''an¡¯s spirit contract three years ago on the spirit ship.


    Purchasing the second-rank spirit contract had been another significant expense.


    "That said, the materials provided by the Xia Family and the Wufu Merchant Association are mostly formon types of pills," Lan Chang''an reflected.


    High-value pills such as Foundation Establishment Pills or second-rank pills for breaking through bottlenecks were never included in the materials he received.


    Without the opportunity to practice with these rare ingredients, Lan Chang''an knew his sess rate and quality for refining such pills would be hard to guarantee.


    The Wufu Merchant Association had a more advanced second-rank top-grade alchemist, but that elder was too old andcked the energy to handle all of the guild''s alchemical needs. Hence, important pills were left to the elder, whilemon second-rank pills were entrusted to Lan Chang''an or other alchemists in the guild.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an stepped out of his alchemy room and entered the peaceful courtyard of Autumnwind Isle.


    "Alchemist Wu, this is the intelligence that the young master recently gathered from the Merchant Alliance," a soft, feminine voice called out.


    Dressed in a simple skirt, Xia Wenyue, the pale-faced young woman, had just returned to Autumnwind Isle. She bowed and handed Lan Chang''an a jade slip.


    Since settling on Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an had requested only two apprentice positions. Xia Wenyue filled the second one.


    She also served as his attendant, handling mundane matters on the ind, such as receiving guests and managing daily affairs.


    Sickly from childhood, Xia Wenyue possessed a vast knowledge of medicinal herbs and followed a path simr to that of Ye Fei from Wuqi Mountain¡ªa path that emphasized herbology and healing, but also included basic alchemy.


    "Mm, you may rest now," Lan Chang''an said, taking the jade slip and ncing at Xia Wenyue¡¯s pale face andbored breathing.


    Even after flying only a short distance, she appeared visibly exhausted.


    During his two or three years on Autumnwind Isle, Xia Wenyue¡¯s delicate appearance had always been the same¡ªpale and frail, with an air of mncholy that seemed to linger between her brows.


    Despite her sickly constitution, Xia Wenyue¡¯s beauty and temperament were unmatched within the Xia Family.


    To remain on Autumnwind Isle, she had willingly taken on the role of a servant. In addition to assisting with alchemy, she handled many of the ind¡¯s affairs, including menial tasks like serving tea or running errands.


    Yet her frail body often struggled with the demands of the job, and her weak spiritual power made things even harder for her.


    On one asion, Xia Wenyue had copsed while working on the ind.


    Impressed by her diligence and humility, Lan Chang''an had grown to have a favorable opinion of her.


    During a casual conversation on one of his better days, Lan Chang''an had kindly suggested, "Little Yue, your body is weak and cold-natured. It seems you have some underlying illness. I have some knowledge of medicine and can take a look for you."


    This suggestion came from both goodwill and curiosity.


    Even with his spiritual sense, Lan Chang''an had been unable to determine the root cause of Xia Wenyue¡¯s illness. He suspected she might possess a special constitution.


    A deeper examination would require direct contact with her spiritual power and an internal scan of her meridians.


    To his surprise, however, Xia Wenyue had politely declined his offer.


    "Thank you for your kindness, Alchemist Wu. My frail condition has been with me since birth. Before she passed, my mother consulted a third-rank healer, but even they couldn¡¯t cure me. I can only rely on medicines to suppress the cold energy within me and barely maintain my cultivation."


    "I¡¯ve alreadye to terms with it and no longer have any unrealistic expectations," Xia Wenyue had said at the time, ncing at the round-faced, slightly oily-looking middle-aged man in front of her.


    She had declined his offer with grace.


    Lan Chang''an naturally didn¡¯t insist. While still curious, he never brought up the topic again.


    He couldn¡¯t help but think that if he had presented himself with his real appearance, the result might have been different.


    Disguised by his Hundred Illusions Mask, Lan Chang''an had adopted another person¡¯s appearance and mannerisms. Though his current image wasn¡¯t exactly ugly or unsightly, it did carry the slightly greasy air typical of many middle-aged men.


    ...


    "One-quarter of Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation sites have been captured by the Golden Sun Sect? Now, even more Liang Kingdom cultivators are fleeing to the neutral Jing Kingdom..."


    Back in his room, Lan Chang''an reviewed the intelligence contained in the jade slip.


    Although he rarely left Autumnwind Isle in the past two or three years, he had kept a close eye on the ongoing war in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    The Jing Kingdom¡¯s Merchant Alliance had extensive intelligenceworks, and the Wufu Merchant Association frequently conducted business in the Liang Kingdom.


    Lan Chang''an had asked Xia Mingqu, the young master of the Xia Family, to bring him back any news rted to the war.


    At the same time, Lan Chang''an was particrly interested in whether the secrets of the ancient ruins had been exposed.


    He couldn¡¯t ask about the ruins directly, so he instead expressed concern for the situation in and around Huanglong Immortal City, asking the Wufu Merchant Association to help keep him informed.


    "Still no mention of the ancient ruins. I can reasonably conclude that the secret hasn¡¯t been widely leaked," Lan Chang''an thought.


    "Fairy Shi became a third-rank formation master a few years ago and has remained safe since. She must have taken care of any loose ends before leaving the ruins, keeping the most crucial secrets hidden."


    Lan Chang''an reached a conclusion.


    The Xuanmu Vine he had retrieved from the ruins involved a major opportunity, one rted to Nascent Soul-level cultivation or higher.


    If that core secret had been exposed, not even Fairy Shi¡¯s identity as a third-rank formation master could protect her.


    For an ordinary ruin or a typical opportunity, her advancement to the Fake Dan stage and status as a third-rank formation master would have been more than enough to safeguard her.


    At present, Fairy Shi was considered a big shot in the cultivation world of Liang Kingdom.


    About a year ago, the Wufu Merchant Association had brought back some intelligence mentioning this newly-risen third-rank formation master from the area around Huanglong Immortal City.


    Interestingly, the Wufu Merchant Association had business dealings with the Beast Taming Zhou Family in the Liang Kingdom.


    Some of the intelligence came from cultivators within the Zhou family.


    "There¡¯s been no bounty posted for the ¡®Turtle Talisman Master¡¯ from the Golden Sun Sect in Feng Kingdom. Could it be that Mu Jiuan and his group concealed the matter, avoiding pursuit by the sect?"


    Lan Chang''an had also been keeping an eye on this other hidden danger.


    He was fairly certain that the tiny Turtle Talisman Master had not entered the eyes of the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s upper echelons.


    Had it been an important figure, the sect would have issued an inter-nation bounty through their Nascent Soul-level leadership.


    "At present, neither of these hidden dangers seems to pose much of a problem."


    Lan Chang''an reflected, thinking, "Once I¡ªor perhaps the Earth Burrowing Rat¡ªseeds in reaching Core Formation, these issues will no longer be a concern. I might even be able to cultivate openly under my real name in Jing Kingdom."


    After reviewing the intelligence, Lan Chang''an felt more at ease.


    In the three sets of intelligence reports provided by the Wufu Merchant Association, there had never been any mention of the Turtle Talisman Master.


    The name "Turtle Talisman Master" had only gained minor recognition in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, and no one outside of the Liang Kingdom seemed to be aware of it.


    Unless you were a figure of significant renown¡ªlike Huanglong Immortal, whose reputation extended beyond Liang Kingdom¡ªor a third-rank formation master like Fairy Shi, foreign intelligenceworks wouldn¡¯t bother paying attention to you.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that the Xia Family had likely investigated the identity of "Wu Fan" within his first two years.


    The results might have led to suspicions that he was using an alias, but this was no longer important.


    As long as Lan Chang''an maintained no ill intentions toward the Xia Family and continued refining pills as expected, what trouble could a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator on the run from a neighboring nation cause?


    In the short term, Lan Chang''an had little concern about his true identity being exposed.


    First, cross-border investigations were difficult, and the Wufu Merchant Association¡¯s influence was limited.


    With the chaos of the ongoing war, it wasmon for cultivators to disappear in the Liang Kingdom. No one would find it unusual for a Foundation Establishment cultivator to vanish.


    Second, no one knew that Lan Chang''an was a second-rank alchemist.


    Even if someone made a connection to the Turtle Talisman Master, the fact that he was a mid-stage Foundation Establishment alchemist would be enough to rule him out.


    After all, it was difficult for a Foundation Establishment cultivator to conceal their true cultivation level from the Xia Family''s Fake Dan elders.


    ...


    Late at night.


    Lan Chang''an dismissed Xia Wenyue and went alone to the basement beneath Autumnwind Isle¡¯s main residence.


    On Autumnwind Isle, the two apprentices lived in separate housing near the outskirts.


    Lan Chang''an''s residence, along with the deep pond behind it, was shrouded by the quasi-third-rank formation.


    Beneath the basement, there was a secret tunnel leading to the deep pond behind the residence.


    This tunnel had been quietly excavated by the Earth Burrowing Rat within the first few months of arriving on Autumnwind Isle.


    The Profound Water Turtle usually resided on the other end of the tunnel, in the deep pond. It surfaced asionally, but whenever visitors arrived, it would dive back into the depths.


    Thanks to thebination of both the outer and inneryers of the formation, the secret tunnel and the Profound Water Turtle had remained undiscovered by the Xia Family¡¯s cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an had instructed the turtle to disguise itself as an ordinary spirit turtle.


    Squeak, squeak!


    A rat demon with yellowish fur lifted the hidden door of the tunnel and led the way for Lan Chang''an.


    This yellow-furred rat demon bore a striking resemnce to a species known as the ¡°Yellow Rock Rat,¡± amon variety closely rted to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    This transformation was the result of the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s practice in the shapeshifting technique.


    Due to the simrity in their bloodlines, even a seasoned beast tamer would find it difficult to discern the difference.


    Normally, it worked around the ind as a second-rank mid-stage spirit beast, disguised as a Yellow Rock Rat. It handled basic tasks and guarded the estate.


    As long as it didn¡¯t encounter Xia Hongyu, the patriarch of the Xia Family, there would be no issues.


    Momentster¡­


    Lan Chang''an followed the tunnel to the other side, arriving at the bottom of the deep pond.


    Within the pond, there was a hidden stone chamber protected by a formation that blocked out the water.


    Ssh!


    The Profound Water Turtle surfaced, carrying Lan Chang''an and the rat demon into the hidden stone chamber.


    The ground inside the chamber was dry and firm, with patches of soil here and there.


    In the center of the chamber stood arge porcin jar filled with multicolored soil, in which a withered vine was nted.


    This was none other than the Xuanmu Vine that Lan Chang''an had brought out from the ancient ruins.


    A hole had been made at the bottom of the porcin jar, allowing the soil inside to make contact with the earth beneath it, connecting the gourd vine to the earth¡¯s spiritual energy.


    Though it wasn¡¯t truly "rooted in the earth," this setup provided a simr effect.


    Lan Chang''an had carefully considered the cement of the Xuanmu Vine.


    First, this deep pond was connected to the earth''s spiritual veins, with abundant spiritual energy and strong earthly qi.


    Second, the natural terrain of the deep pond,bined with the quasi-third-rank formation¡¯s hiddenyer and the materials crafted from shadowstone, ensured high levels of concealment.


    Third, the Profound Water Turtle resided in the pond and could keep a watchful eye on the gourd vine.


    When Lan Chang''an was too busy, the turtle would use its water-control abilities to nourish the vine and maintain its vitality.


    The Profound Water Turtle was very happy to do this job.


    "Leaving the Xuanmu Vine here to grow is far more secure than carrying it around with me."


    Based on his past-life knowledge, Lan Chang''an had repeatedly examined the Xuanmu Vine, even attempting some basic calctions.


    He had concluded that the gourd vine had the ability to shield itself from divination and spiritual calctions.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t skilled in divination, and his attempts had been rudimentary at best. Using his mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation, his divination results were unreliable.


    Lan Chang''an approached the withered gourd vine, observing it for a while before shaking his head.


    Despite its connection to the earth¡¯s spiritual energy, the vine showed no signs of growth.


    Since being removed from the ruins, the Xuanmu Vine had shown no improvement under his care. All Lan Chang''an could do was maintain its current state of vitality.


    If he were willing to expend his own lifespan and use the Evergreen Technique, he could slightly increase the vine''s vitality.


    Perhaps, by sacrificing a significant amount of lifespan, he might even reverse its withering.


    However, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t willing to gamble with his own lifespan for an uncertain result.


    Even if he were to experiment with this method, he would wait until he reached the True Dan stage, when his lifespan would increase dramatically.


    ...


    "Let¡¯s go."


    Lan Chang''an waved his hand, storing the porcin jar filled with the five-element soil and the Xuanmu Vine into his storage pouch, temporarily severing its connection to the earth.


    He was preparing for a journey to seek Core Formation opportunities for the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Although keeping the Xuanmu Vine hidden here was secure, Lan Chang''an felt safer carrying it with him.


    As long as it was nourished by the five-element soil and the Evergreen Technique, the vine¡¯s vitality would be preserved.


    "After three years, I¡¯ve gained the Xia Family¡¯s initial trust. It¡¯s time to move forward..."


    Lan Chang''an patted the Earth Burrowing Rat on the head.


    Then, he returned through the secret tunnel and emerged back into the courtyard of Autumnwind Isle¡¯s main residence.


    The following morning...


    Lan Chang''an sought an audience with Xia Mingqu, the young master of the Xia Family, and exined his intentions.

 Chapter 225: Superior Life Extension Pills

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Within Qingsha Bay, inside the Xia Family''s young master''s abode.


    "Alchemist Wu, may I ask the reason for your trip this time?"


    Xia Mingqu, dressed in a dark brocade robe, his face as wless as jade and posture elegant, showed a hint of surprise upon hearing Lan Chang''an''s request. Still, it wasn''tpletely unexpected.


    After all, Lan Chang''an had stayed at Autumnwind Isle for nearly three years, rarely leaving, and had never gone on a long trip.


    The spirit contract Lan Chang''an signed with the Wufu Merchant Association mainly required him to perform alchemical duties for a period of twenty years. Beyond that, there were no restrictions on his personal freedom.


    Of course, the second-rank spirit contract had strong binding effects on Foundation Establishment cultivators. Breaking it would incur severe bacsh, and the contract, protected by the Merchant Alliance, carried a mark of his spiritual power, enabling tracking within a certain range.


    "Wu has already lived for over a century and has been stuck in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage for many years. I can''t afford to dy any longer. This trip is to seek out either the Xuanwu Pill to break through to thete Foundation Establishment stage or the key ingredients for refining it."


    Lan Chang''an spoke solemnly, clearly exining his purpose.Xia Mingqu was silent for a moment, contemting Lan Chang''an''s request. He didn¡¯t have a valid reason to refuse. If it had been a moremon resource, Xia Mingqu could have arranged it using the guild''s vast channels. However, a breakthrough pill for thete Foundation Establishment stage was a strategic resource.


    Even if the Wufu Merchant Association had some, it would first prioritize its own family members or use it to secure favors and benefits. It would not be made avable to an outsider like Lan Chang''an.


    "Half a month from now, there will be an auction at Cloudsmoke Immortal City. Rarely seen superior second-rank Life Extension Pills will be for sale, and the Xuanwu Pill should also be avable," Xia Mingqu suggested after some thought. "If you''re not in a rush, why not join my father and me for the trip? That way, it¡¯ll be safer."


    "I already have other ns, but I appreciate the offer," Lan Chang''an politely declined.


    "Then be careful on the road, Fellow Daoist Wu," Xia Mingqu said, handing over a jade slip. "This contains aplete map of the Jing Kingdom cultivation world."


    "Many thanks, young master," Lan Chang''an replied, recognizing the subtle meaning in Xia Mingqu¡¯s tone.


    Although Jing Kingdom was at peace and Foundation Establishment cultivators traveling alone wouldn¡¯t typically encounter danger, there were always exceptions. Lan Chang''an recalled the current state of the Wufu Merchant Association, which was rumored to be suppressed by the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    Just months ago, a Wufu elder had been ambushed and gravely injured while traveling alone. The merchant guild suspected the Xinyue Merchant Association was behind this butcked solid evidence.


    Xia Mingqu''s offer wasn''t solely out of concern for Lan Chang''an fleeing; there was also genuine goodwill behind it. The young master personally escorted Lan Chang''an out of the estate, watching him leave.


    ¡°Wu Fan is still rtively unknown within the Wufu Merchant Association and isn¡¯t a key figure, so he shouldn¡¯t be targeted by enemy forces,¡± Xia Mingqu thought.


    ¡­


    "Superior Life Extension Pills?"


    After leaving the Xia Family¡¯s Qingsha Bay, Lan Chang''an''s eyes lit up.


    In all the years he had spent in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, he had never encountered superior Life Extension Pills. Yet, after only three years in Jing Kingdom, he had alreadye across an opportunity to obtain one.


    This wasn¡¯t to say that such pills didn¡¯t exist in Liang Kingdom; they did. However, the sects monopolized most rare resources, keeping them for internal use or as offerings to upper-level figures. As a result, they rarely appeared in the open market, and opportunities to obtain them were fleeting.


    Jing Kingdom, however, was different.


    Here, the merchant guilds held considerable power, and the tradeworks were well-developed. Resources flowed more freely, and skilled artisans were abundant. While certain resources were still controlled, it wasn''t as restrictive as in the Liang Kingdom.


    "Aside from theck of Nascent Soul-level powers, the mid-tier cultivators and factions in Jing Kingdom are not weaker than those in Liang Kingdom," Lan Chang''an mused.


    Even though he hadn¡¯t traveled much, he had learned plenty about the state of affairs in Jing Kingdom from conversations with the Xia Family¡¯s cultivators.


    Without the absolute rule of a Nascent Soul-level power, there was a more bnced distribution of power, and resources weren¡¯t overly concentrated in the hands of a few.


    ¡°Without a Nascent Soul power it¡¯s surprising that Jing Kingdom has maintained its prosperity and neutrality for so many years without being dragged into any major wars,¡± Lan Chang''an had initially been puzzled by this before arriving.


    However, it came down to three main factors.


    First, Jing Kingdomcked fourth-rank spiritual veins, making it less attractive to Nascent Soul True Monarchs.


    Second, the country''s geography yed a role. Jing Kingdom was nestled between Chen Kingdom and Liang Kingdom, two countries with roughly equal cultivation strength. The bnce between these neighboring nations ensured that neither would easily risk a conflict, allowing the Jing Kingdom to maintain neutrality.


    Third, there was a rumor.


    It was said that the Jing Kingdom had once given birth to a "child of fortune" who traveled to the very center of the Great Qing cultivation world and ascended to Nascent Soul True Monarch. This individual was so powerful that he was able to join an ancient Nascent Soul sect, and the neighboring countries, wary of this powerful figure, were reluctant to touch Jing Kingdom.


    Lan Chang''an remained skeptical of the rumor.


    It might have been true, or it could simply be a fabrication spread by the Jing Kingdom Merchant Alliance to bolster its reputation.


    ¡­


    Half a dayter, Lan Chang''an had already left the Xia Family¡¯s territory.


    Along the way, he discreetly checked to see if he was being followed but found no signs of surveince.


    His impression of the Xia Family improved slightly.


    Aside from the spirit contract¡¯s constraints, Lan Chang''an¡¯s three years of low-key behavior had earned him the family''s trust.


    As for the potential threat from rival merchant guilds, Lan Chang''an was unconcerned. Wufu and Xinyue were not top-tier merchant guilds within the Merchant Alliance. Neither guild had any Core Formation cultivators, and their strongest members were Fake Dan cultivators.


    Fake Dan cultivators posed no real threat to Lan Chang''an, whose body cultivation had reached the quasi-third-rank level.


    Moreover, Fake Dan cultivators were typically the highest-ranking members of these guilds and wouldn¡¯t easily make a move.


    "Superior Life Extension Pills¡­ Cloudsmoke Immortal City, the closest immortal city to the Xia Family."


    Lan Chang''an whispered to himself as he descended into a small forest along his route.


    A short whileter, an old man in a rain cloak, now Lan Chang''an¡¯s disguised form, emerged from the forest, flying on a small boat toward Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    In truth, Cloudsmoke Immortal City hadn''t been his original destination. He had initially nned to visit the Merchant Alliance headquarters in thergest city of Jing Kingdom, seeking resources to help the Earth Burrowing Rat with its Core Formation breakthrough.


    However, after learning about the superior Life Extension Pills, Lan Chang''an decided to adjust his n and stop by Cloudsmoke Immortal City first.


    Cloudsmoke Immortal City was still a sizable city.


    The avability of superior Life Extension Pills would undoubtedly attract powerful Foundation Establishment cultivators and possibly even some Fake Dan cultivators.


    For a short while, the city would be a hotspot, and the major merchant guilds would likely bring out more high-tier resources to make a name for themselves.


    "Regr Life Extension Pills can only be used once per rank, and their effects don¡¯t stack."


    "But superior Life Extension Pills are different. Even if you''ve taken a regr pill of the same rank, you can still gain two to three-tenths of the benefits from a superior version. Although it¡¯s not cost-effective to take them repeatedly, it¡¯s still useful¡­"


    Due to his unique cultivation method, Lan Chang''an could stack the effects of regr Life Extension Pills, though the effects would diminish with each use.


    He was curious to see what kind of effect a superior Life Extension Pill might have on him.


    Life Extension Pills could not only boost his Evergreen power but also aid in nurturing the mysterious Xuanmu Vine, which required life essence to grow.


    ¡­


    Three dayster.


    A mist-shrouded city built atop a vastke came into view.


    The entire city was constructed from a grayish-white stone with cloud-like patterns, and from a distance, it looked like a pure white gem floating in the middle of a boundlesske.


    This was Cloudsmoke Immortal City, a city governed by several merchant guilds within the Merchant Alliance.


    With the Jing Kingdom at peace and trade flourishing, the city wasn¡¯t under strict control.


    Lan Chang''an, as a Foundation Establishment cultivator, was not even questioned upon entering the city, nor was he charged any entry fee.


    The loose regtions applied mainly to nonmercial cultivators. Merchants, on the other hand, had toply with various taxes, identity checks, and other rules.


    With more than ten days until the auction, the number of visitors to Cloudsmoke Immortal City was steadily increasing.


    Being unfamiliar with the city, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t act hastily. That same day, he checked into a luxurious inn called Xunxian Residence, located in the heart of the city.


    Althoughbeled an inn, Xunxian Residence was more akin to avish estate. The upper-ss rooms were individual courtyards, each with its own private quarters.


    With plenty of wealth and a preference for privacy, Lan Chang''an opted for one of the exclusive courtyard suites, paying a steep sixty spirit stones per day.


    In his room, alongside the usual amenities like cleansing talismans and personal items, he found a jade slip on the table.


    "Cloudsmoke Immortal City Guide?"


    The jade slip contained aprehensive guide to the city, offering details on the city''s major powers, shops, stall areas, and the uing auction.


    Even the more hedonistic venues, like the city''s various "Immortal Lounges," were listed.


    Xunxian Residence, as a high-end establishment, also partnered with these lounges to provide "delivery services" right to your doorstep.


    There was even a booklet on the table, showcasing portraits of beautiful female cultivators, each with a unique charm.


    "The service here is quite... thorough," Lan Chang''an muttered, impressed by the open-minded and business-savvy atmosphere of Jing Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    However, the services provided by Xunxian Residence didn''t stop there.


    Guests staying in the upper-ss rooms also enjoyed a few perks, including aplimentary local guide.


    Later that evening, Lan Chang''an contacted the inn¡¯s attendant and scheduled a guide for the following day.


    The Cloudsmoke Immortal City Guide provided only a basic overview of the city. To understand the finer details, one needed to interact with the local cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t in a rush to acquire resources for the Earth Burrowing Rat''s Core Formation and was willing to take his time.


    "Over thest three years, my puppet-crafting skills have reached quasi-third-rank level in theory. However, I¡¯ve nearly exhausted my stock of materials."


    Lan Chang''an was confident that with another round of material purchases, he would soon be a true quasi-third-rank puppet master.


    A quasi-third-rank puppet would beparable to a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Once he sessfully crafted two or more of them, Lan Chang''an would even have a chance of contending with a True Dan cultivator.


    Compared to gathering resources for Core Formation, acquiring quasi-third-rank puppet materials was a less daunting task.


    ...


    The next morning.


    Outside Lan Chang''an¡¯s courtyard suite, a pair of young cultivators, one male and one female, waited patiently.


    "Ah Feng, remember not to pry into our guests¡¯ personal affairs. If the innkeeper finds out, the consequences won¡¯t be pretty..." the woman in a white dress, her makeup carefully applied, whispered in warning.


    "Sister Ting, I know. Last time, I was just curious. I¡¯d never met a guest from a Liang Kingdom merchant guild before, so I asked a few too many questions," the young man replied with a wry smile, subconsciously touching his cheek, which still ached faintly.


    He had been fortunate that thest guest had only pped him and didn¡¯t lodge a formalint with the inn.


    "The elder is ready to see you," a maid from the inn said, leading the pair into the courtyard.


    "Greetings, senior," the two of them said in unison.


    Sitting at a stone table in the courtyard was an elderly man with a frail figure and cloudy eyes.


    The old man nced over the young man and woman who had been assigned as his guides.


    The inn provided oneplimentary guide per upper-ss suite.


    If they performed well, they might be rewarded with a tip, which could easily amount to half a year¡¯s earnings for them.


    The woman in white was poised and elegant, her demeanor mature and refined.


    The young man, on the other hand, seemed a bit more inexperienced and kept his head lowered.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze lingered on the woman for a moment before shifting to the young man.


    "Hmm?"


    A strange sense of familiarity struck Lan Chang''an.


    He was sure he hadn¡¯t seen this young man before¡ªnot his appearance, at least.


    The familiarity seemed to stem from the young man¡¯s aura.


    "What are your names?" Lan Chang''an asked casually, while secretly probing the young man''s condition with his spiritual sense.


    To his surprise, he discovered that the young man had suffered severe internal injuries, leavingsting damage to his dantian and meridians. These injuries had caused his cultivation to regress to the Qi-Refining stage.


    Not only that, but the young man had an earth spiritual root!


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind lit up, suddenly recalling the young man¡¯s identity.


    "My name is Lu Shuting," the woman introduced herself.


    "Junior Wang Feng," the young man said.


    The two of them nced nervously at Lan Chang''an, hope glimmering in their eyes.


    After a brief pause, Lan Chang''an nodded and said, "Little Wang, you will apany me around the city."

 Chapter 226: The Intervention of an Immortal

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    The Wang Feng before him was the same "Young Master Wang" from three years ago, the distinguished guest aboard the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spiritual ship.


    At that time, Young Master Wang resided in a premium cabin, attended by beautiful Foundation Establishment maidservants and protected by an old Fake Dan servant.


    The cultivators of the Jing Kingdom''s Merchant Alliance treated him with great enthusiasm, even to the point of ttery.


    Even the patrol cultivators of major sects dared not enter Young Master Wang''s room.


    But in the end, Young Master Wang fell into the hands of the Demonic Sect, with Lady Wei, Liang Shaotian''s disciple, acting as an inside agent to scout him out beforehand.


    Based on the Demonic Sect''s remarks at the time, it was suspected that Young Master Wang¡¯s background was tied to a high-ranking elder of the me Departing Pce.


    Of course, Young Master Wang¡¯s appearance and demeanor were entirely different from Wang Feng''s now.


    On the spiritual ship, it was likely that Young Master Wang had used advanced means to disguise himself.Only Lan Chang''an, with his powerful spiritual sense, was able to catch some simrities between the two. However, even he wasn''t fully sure.


    After all, that Young Master Wang had never used any spiritual powers on the ship. His escape method back then was likely a third-rank Minor Teleportation Talisman.


    "Senior, I am very familiar with the shops and establishments in Cloudsmoke Immortal City. Wherever you wish to go, I can help guide you and make introductions," Wang Feng said with a fawning smile, diligently leading the way ahead.


    Lan Chang''an was staying in the top-ss guest room of the Xunxian Residence, which offered free transport by spirit horse-drawn carriage.


    At some partnered shops, he could even enjoy VIP treatment.


    "Little Wang, how long have you been in Cloudsmoke Immortal City?" Lan Chang''an asked casually, reclining on the soft, wide beast hide chair inside the spirit horse-drawn carriage.


    "Replying to Senior, I have been here for almost two years," Wang Feng answered promptly, sharing his circumstances in full detail.


    During their small talk, Lan Chang''an probed subtly, making some guesses about Young Master Wang¡¯s past.


    Wang Feng imed to be a loose cultivator from a remote area of Jing Kingdom, who had inadvertently stepped onto the path of immortality and arrived in this region two years ago.


    This was obviously bullshit.


    Lan Chang''an had previously used his spiritual sense to investigate and discovered that Wang Feng had fallen from the Foundation Establishment stage to the Qi-Refining stage, with severe internal injuries that left hidden ailments in his body.


    Such concealed injuries could only be detected if a Fake Dan cultivator deliberately investigated.


    Lan Chang''an had arrived in the Jing Kingdom''s cultivation world three years ago, while Wang Feng came to Cloudsmoke Immortal City two years ago.


    The year before, Wang Feng had probably been recuperating from his injuries, and only when his condition stabilized did hee to Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    "This young man¡¯s cultivation fell, and he¡¯s powerless to return to the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world. He might be secretly hunted by the forces of the Demonic Sect and the Merchant Alliance. His only chance of survival is to associate with mid-to-high level cultivators from the Liang Kingdom," Lan Chang''an spected about Wang Feng¡¯s intention to serve as a local guide at the Xunxian Residence.


    As a top-tier inn in the heart of the city, the cultivators who stayed there were either wealthy or noble. The probability of meeting mid-to-high level cultivators from the Liang Kingdom was higher than in other ces.


    Being a local guide was a rtively easy job, certainly better thanboring as a low-level cultivator.


    With Wang Feng¡¯s experience and knowledge, he had an advantage over ordinary Qi-Refining stage cultivators in interacting with distinguished guests.


    ...


    On the first day, Lan Chang''an didn''t probe too much. He simply had Wang Feng guide him around the various parts of the city.


    First, he familiarized himself with the local guilds'' power structure and the situation in the high-end shops.


    To his pleasant surprise, in this immortal city, materials for quasi-third-rank puppets were easier to acquire than in the Liang Kingdom.


    The merchant guilds in the Jing Kingdom''s major immortal cities were prosperous, with fast resource cirction.


    Resource monopolization wasn''t as severe as in the Liang Kingdom.


    As a distinguished guest of the Xunxian Residence, as long as he had enough spirit stones, he could buy almost any non-strategic resource below third rank.


    Within the Merchant Alliance¡¯s sphere of influence, money was power.


    Lan Chang''an silently affirmed thating to the cultivation world of Jing Kingdom had been the right move.


    He had brought a vast fortune with him, making him feel like a fish in water.


    The next day, Lan Chang''an had Wang Feng apany him to the "Xuan Weapon Workshop," where he purchased a portion of the materials for his quasi-third-rank puppets.


    The "Xuan Weapon Workshop" was thergest crafting establishment in the city, and they also bought and sold various materials.


    Lan Chang''an took the opportunity to sell a few top-tier magical weapons and some excess materials, earning over ten thousand spirit stones, while he paid a few thousand more out of pocket.


    For the specifics of the transaction, Lan Chang''an did not have Wang Feng apany him.


    Given therge transaction amount, Lan Chang''an deliberately leaked some of histe Foundation Establishment stage spiritual power during his private negotiations with the workshop manager to reduce potential risks.


    This transaction fulfilled less than half of Lan Chang''an''s material needs.


    He nned to use a different identity to visit other high-end shopster to acquire the rest of the materials.


    "Little Wang, take me to the Lingtong Pavilion," Lan Chang''an said in a good mood as they left the Xuan Weapon Workshop. With enough materials, it would only be a matter of years before he became a quasi-third-rank puppet master.


    As for his Earth Burrowing Rat, with its excellent bloodline potential, even if he didn¡¯t obtain any major Core Formation resources, it would still be able to reach the Fake Dan stage without any problems.


    By that time, he would have quasi-third-rank puppets and a Fake Dan stage spirit pet, greatly enhancing his ability to protect his Dao.


    "Lingtong Pavilion?" Wang Feng was momentarily stunned but quickly agreed.


    The Lingtong Pavilion was the most powerful intelligence organization native to the Jing Kingdom, and it was rumored that its backers were the higher-ups of the Merchant Alliance.


    In fact, there was also a "Tian Zhi Pavilion" in the Jing Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    But the Tian Zhi Pavilion wasn¡¯t a native intelligence agency of the Jing Kingdom; its business covered multiple neighboring cultivation nations, and its background was mysterious.


    In Cloudsmoke Immortal City, there was no branch of the Tian Zhi Pavilion. You¡¯d have to go to one of the top immortal cities in the Jing Kingdom to find it.


    Even if it were avable, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t keen on going to the Tian Zhi Pavilion unless absolutely necessary.


    Not only was the Tian Zhi Pavilion well-informed, but it also had experts skilled in divination and prediction.


    ...


    A short whileter, Lan Chang''an arrived at the Lingtong Pavilion.


    This time, he didn¡¯t avoid Wang Feng, letting him guide the way and stay by his side as he purchased two pieces of information.


    One piece pertained to the ongoing cultivation war in the Liang Kingdom.


    The other concerned the uingrge-scale auction in Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an wanted to know what valuable items would be for sale at this auction and whether the superior Life Extension Pills truly existed.


    These two pieces of information were hot topics, and they weren''t expensive. Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t worry about revealing anything by buying them.


    The first piece of information was almost identical to the one provided by the Wufu Merchant Association.


    Lan Chang''an had bought it mainly to fill in any gaps in his knowledge, but also to let Wang Feng see it.


    Wang Feng remainedposed on the surface, but his heart skipped a beat.


    There were two reasons why someone would care about information rted to the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world:


    First, the senior in front of him, or the merchant guild behind him, might have business dealings with the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, and the value of their goods could be affected by the war.


    Second, this senior might have some personal ties to the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    Rtively speaking, the former seemed more likely.


    "The Demonic Sect and Merchant Alliance forces have not given up on secretly hunting me. I can¡¯t risk exposing myself by being reckless," Wang Feng thought, suppressing his urge to probe further.


    He had avoided staying in the border cities because the hunting pressure there was much greater and extremely dangerous.


    Luckily, he had concealed his true appearance and spiritual aura back on the ship.


    Additionally, in recent years, more and more cultivators from the Liang Kingdom had migrated to the Jing Kingdom¡¯s side.


    Even though Wang Feng wasn¡¯t staying in a border city, as long as he was patient, he still had hope of connecting with cultivators from the Liang Kingdom.


    However, the Liang Kingdom cultivators he aimed to connect with had strict criteria.


    Not only did they have to be of high standing, but they also needed to be trustworthy.


    It was thetter that made things difficult¡ªhuman hearts are unpredictable.


    After all, most of the Liang Kingdom cultivators who migrated to the Jing Kingdom harbored little goodwill towards the sects of the Liang Kingdom.


    "Hmm! There¡¯s actually a third-rank low-grade demonic core as the grand finale for this auction?"


    Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised when he read the second piece of information regarding the auction.


    Unfortunately, the demonic core was of the water attribute.


    If it had been of the earth attribute, Lan Chang''an would have definitelypeted for it.


    For his Earth Burrowing Rat to break through to third-rank and form its core, Lan Chang''an had three possible ns:


    First, he could trade for an earth attribute demonic core.


    A demonic beast consuming a same-attribute third-rank demonic core could increase the chances of forming its own core.


    The effectiveness depended on the purity and quality of the demonic core.


    If he were lucky enough to acquire a third-rank demonic core from a higher-grade bloodline beast, its effects could even surpass those of the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Second, he could trade for a Crystal Condensation Pill, even an inferior one.


    The Crystal Condensation Pill was more suited for human cultivators, with rtively stable effects.


    However, such strategic resources were extremely rare in the human world and were rarely used for spirit pets.


    Third, he could seek out a specialized third-rank pill for demonic beasts to condense their cores known as the Sha Yuan Pill.


    This pill was rather niche, with a fierce medicinal property and containing baleful energy, making it unsuitable for human cultivators.


    Among these three ns, Lan Chang''an¡¯s current resources were sufficient to pursue any of them.


    In the ancient ruins, Lan Chang''an had obtained a third-rankte-stage demonic core from the medicine vault of the six-sided pce pavilion.


    Unfortunately, after countless years, much of the core¡¯s demonic power had dissipated, and it wasn¡¯t of the earth attribute.


    Even so, its value was still slightly higher than that of an ordinary low-grade third-rank demonic core.


    Besides this core, Lan Chang''an also had materials to make a Crystal Condensation Pill, over 80%plete.


    The main ingredient hecked was the rare "Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower."


    With these materials alone, Lan Chang''an had the qualifications to coborate with others to refine the Crystal Condensation Pill, or even attempt to trade for one.


    At worst, he could lower his standards and trade for a low-grade Crystal Condensation Pill, which would be more than enough.


    ...


    "Little Wang, which merchant guild in the city deals the most in demonic beast materials?" Lan Chang''an asked while on the way back to the Xunxian Residence.


    He was asking about a merchant guild, not just a shop.


    Materials like third-rank demonic cores couldn¡¯t be found in regr stores.


    They were rarely even seen in auctions.


    Outside of auctions, onlyrge merchant guilds would have such resources.


    The third-rank demonic core in Lan Chang''an''s possession was more valuable than an ordinary low-grade one.


    If he found the right merchant guild, he could easily trade it for an earth attribute third-rank low-grade demonic core.


    "The Snow Fox Merchant Association would meet your requirements, Senior. They primarily deal in demonic beast parts, beast cores, and medicinal ingredients, and they also dabble in the path of beast taming¡­" Wang Feng answered respectfully, providing a detailed response.


    "The Snow Fox Merchant Association is one of the joint rulers of Cloudsmoke Immortal City, but their business extends beyond this city, and they have considerable influence throughout the entire Merchant Alliance."


    "Oh? Does the Snow Fox Merchant Association have any Core Formation cultivators in charge?"


    "They do have one Core Formation ancestor," Wang Feng replied affirmatively.


    "However, that ancestor doesn¡¯t reside at the guild¡¯s city headquarters and instead sits at the ancestral grounds year-round. There''s a rumor that the Core Formation ancestor only has thirty years of lifespan left and is growing weaker with age."


    Lan Chang''an nodded slightly.


    A True Dan ancestor theoretically had five to six hundred years of life.


    With only thirty years left, it was akin to a mortal living past ny¡ªdefinitely far from their prime.


    Even celestials are subject to the Five Decays.


    Cultivators weren¡¯t true immortals, at their core, they were still human.


    As their lifespan approached its limit, their physical functions would inevitably deteriorate, leading to a decline in their magical power.


    No matter how powerful their magical power, even if they maintained their body well, the state of their soul would continue to decline, making it impossible topare to their younger days.


    At the Xunxian Residence, Lan Chang''an returned to his high-ss, private courtyard.


    "The Snow Fox Merchant Association has a history spanning nearly a thousand years, and with its focus on demonic beast materials, it¡¯s highly likely they have third-rank demonic cores in storage."


    After pondering for a long while, Lan Chang''an concluded that the Snow Fox Merchant Association was a suitable trade partner.


    The guild was indeed powerful, but with the sitting Core Formation ancestor growing old, the threat to Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t too great.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Having be familiar with Cloudsmoke Immortal City, Lan Chang''an no longer needed Wang Feng to personally apany him.


    Acting on his own, he used a different identity to purchase another batch of quasi-third-rank puppet materials, finally meeting his expectations.


    By this time, there were only three days left until the auction.


    The city¡¯s poption had reached its peak.


    While walking around the city, Lan Chang''an even encountered members of the Xia Family.


    Xia Mingqu and a few other Foundation Establishment cultivators, including his father, were staying at another inn not far away.


    Lan Chang''an, in disguise, wasn¡¯t recognized by them.


    He had no intention of meeting with them.


    That evening, dressed as a cloaked elder, Lan Chang''an left the Xunxian Residence and headed to the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s headquarters for a visit.


    This time, he didn¡¯t bring Wang Feng.


    Wang Feng¡¯s identity was somewhat special.


    There might be opportunities tied to this person.


    But with the situation still unclear, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t want to get entangled with him.


    He hadn¡¯t forgotten the reason he came to the Jing Kingdom. Nothing was more important than plotting for his Core Formation.


    ...


    The Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s headquarters was located in the central district of the immortal city, a luxurious, sprawling estate.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, Lan Chang''an was naturally not treated with disdain and would certainly be received.


    "Old me wishes to conduct a major transaction with your guild. Please send a person of authority to negotiate," Lan Chang''an said with a tone of seniority.


    Hismanding attitude left the guild cultivators at the headquarters with no room for disrespect.


    "Honored Daoist, you seem unfamiliar. How should we address you?"


    A plump middle-aged man at thete Foundation Establishment stage led Lan Chang''an into the guild¡¯s headquarters. His name was Gao Songbai, an elder of the Snow Fox Merchant Association responsible for the business around Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    "This old man''s name is Xiang. The items I wish to trade with your guild are no trifling matter. I doubt you have the authority to make the decision," Lan Chang''an said with an air of arrogance.


    "Haha, Fellow Daoist Xiang¡¯s tone is quite bold. May I ask what you intend to trade?" Gao Songbai chuckled lightly, showing no signs of anger.


    The two sat down in a side hall, and Gao Songbai waved the servants away.


    Without wasting words, Lan Chang''an took out an oval-shaped demonic core, dark purple in color.


    "A third-rank demonic core?"


    Gao Songbai¡¯s smile vanished, his expression turning serious as he lost his earlier nonchnce.


    At Lan Chang''an''s gesture, he carefully received the core and began examining its quality and attributes.


    "A demonic core imbued with lightning energy? Such pure demonic power within..."


    The Snow Fox Merchant Association specialized in demonic beast materials, and Gao Songbai was an expert in this field. A quick inspection told him the general details of the core.


    "Haha! The quality of this demonic core isn¡¯t bad, but it¡¯s been stored for too long, causing a significant loss of its demonic power. I wonder where Fellow Daoist Xiang obtained this core?"


    Gao Songbaiughed heartily, masking a hint of greed in his eyes as he looked at the elderly Foundation Establishment cultivator before him.


    "This demonic core was found by me in an unmarked cave within the ck Fog Mountain Range," Lan Chang''an said indifferently, his gaze sweeping lightly across Gao Songbai while emitting a faint but powerful fluctuation of magical power, his spiritual sense also briefly swept over the other party.


    "A Fake Dan Immortal!" Gao Songbai¡¯s heart froze, feeling the brief but overwhelming spiritual pressure.


    Any improper thoughts he might have entertained immediately vanished, reced by a cold sweat.


    No wonder this person was so confident, acting so senior in the negotiation.


    While a third-rank low-grade demonic core was indeed valuable, a Fake Dan cultivator was more than qualified for such a high-level trade.


    "Please wait, Senior Xiang. I cannot make the decision on this transaction," Gao Songbai said respectfully, quickly sending out a transmission talisman to notify the resident True Dan cultivator of the guild.


    "Hmm."


    Lan Chang''an maintained his dignified demeanor, responding nonchntly.


    He had anticipated this situation.


    nning for Core Formation involved items of great value.


    If he had tried to downy his importance or act modestly, he would have invited trouble upon himself.


    Instead, he chose to take the opposite approach, leveraging the Hundred Illusions Mask to elevate his status.


    The Hundred Illusions Mask¡¯s ability to disguise one''s cultivation level was tied to the user''s spiritual sense. With Lan Chang''an''ste Foundation Establishment cultivation and a spiritual senseparable to a Fake Dan stage cultivator, he could convincingly pose as a Fake Dan cultivator.


    In theory, if his spiritual sense was a bit stronger, even a high and grand True Dan Immortal could make an asional appearance.

 Chapter 227: Successful Transaction

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Not long after, a powerful spiritual pressure at the Fake Dan level descended upon the side hall where the two were seated.


    ¡°Guild Master,¡± Gao Songbai stood up to greet the neer.


    It was a beautiful woman, draped in snow-white robes with silver hair, exuding an icy elegance. Her skin was as smooth as jade, and she appeared to be in her early twenties.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s Hanyu Immortal! What an honor for someone like me to be received by the president of the Snow Fox Merchant Association herself,¡± Lan Chang''an spoke with a humble tone, though his body exuded a matching Fake Dan level of spiritual power.


    Their spiritual pressures briefly shed in the air before they both withdrew them.


    Before arriving, Lan Chang''an had already gathered information on the key figures of the Snow Fox Merchant Association. He knew that the most prominent cultivator stationed in the city was Hanyu Immortal, who had taken over as the guild¡¯s president a few years ago.


    ¡°Xiang Immortal, you¡¯re too polite,¡± Hanyu Immortal¡¯s expression remainedposed as her icy blue eyes sized up the elderly man in the straw raincoat across from her.


    After exchanging pleasantries, they both took their seats.Gao Songbai, who had initially received Lan Chang''an, discreetly exited the side hall.


    Lan Chang''an maintained his Fake Dan aura, but the Hundred Illusions Mask continued to slowly drain his spiritual sense.


    Disguising himself at a lower level of cultivation required minimal energy, almost negligible. However, posing as a higher-level cultivator was a different story, making it unsustainable for long periods. Nevertheless, maintaining the disguise for a short transaction like this wasn¡¯t too taxing.


    ¡°I¡¯m familiar with almost every Immortal in the Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, but I don¡¯t believe I¡¯ve heard of Xiang Immortal before. May I ask where youe from?¡± Hanyu Immortal¡¯s voice was clear and pleasant, her tone conveying curiosity.


    ¡°I am but a wandering loose cultivator from a small, insignificant ce. Not worth mentioning,¡± Lan Chang''an responded dismissively.


    Within the Jing Kingdom''s cultivation world, while there were many Fake Dan cultivators, those who were well-known had either made a name for themselves or were part of major sects. If a Fake Dan cultivator was still unknown, they were either in hiding or from an obscure background.


    Hanyu Immortal could see that the other party didn¡¯t wish to reveal his true identity, so she didn¡¯t press the issue.


    In fact, the surname "Xiang" triggered some associations for her.


    However, the man before her was vastly different from the one in those rumors, so she couldn¡¯t jump to conclusions based solely on a name.


    Lan Chang''an had deliberately chosen to use the surname "Xiang" for a reason.


    If the Snow Fox Merchant Association suspected he was Xiang Jinglong, they would be even more cautious in their dealings.


    On one hand, Xiang Jinglong was a formidable figure, having reached quasi-third-rank in body cultivation, a rarity even among Fake Dan cultivators.


    On the other hand, with the Demonic Sect being a powerful force, the Snow Fox Merchant Association wouldn¡¯t want to risk making an enemy of them.


    If the transaction went awry, Lan Chang''an could always use the identity of "Xiang Immortal" as a fallback.


    It was worth noting that Lan Chang''an himself had also cultivated his body to quasi-third-rank, an extremely rare feat among Fake Dan people.


    Three years ago, when he was on the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship, Xiang Jinglong had led a group of Demonic Sect cultivators who had intercepted the ship and forced Lan Chang''an to pay 3,000 spirit stones as a "ransom."


    That unjust expense was something Lan Chang''an had silently kept track of ever since.


    ...


    ¡°This third-rank demonic core, our Snow Fox Merchant Association is willing to purchase. Does Xiang Immortal prefer payment in spirit stones or a trade in kind?¡± Hanyu Immortal got straight to the point afterpleting her appraisal.


    During this appraisal, the demonic core remained in Lan Chang''an¡¯s hands, and he allowed her to inspect it with her spiritual sense. Coupled with Gao Songbai¡¯s earlier evaluation, Hanyu Immortal had already formed a solid judgment on the core¡¯s quality and value.


    ¡°I would like a third-rank earth-attribute demonic core,¡± Lan Chang''an was equally direct.


    He didn¡¯t bring up the Crystal Condensation Pill¡ªit wasn¡¯t realistic. Such a strategic resource, even if the Snow Fox Merchant Association had one, they would never sell it to an outsider.


    ¡°An earth-attribute demonic core?¡± Hanyu Immortal¡¯s delicate brows furrowed slightly as she responded with a bit of hesitation, ¡°Our guild doesn¡¯t currently have any earth-attribute third-rank demonic cores in stock. However, if Xiang Immortal is willing to wait for a year or so, we can definitely acquire one through other channels.¡±


    From Hanyu Immortal¡¯s tone, Lan Chang''an surmised that the Snow Fox Merchant Association likely had other types of third-rank demonic cores.


    A year or so was short inparison to Lan Chang''an¡¯s long lifespan, but for a transaction, it was rather lengthy.


    He didn¡¯t want to let too much time pass and risk unforeseenplications, so he adjusted his n.


    ¡°Does your guild have any third-rank Sha Yuan Pills?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    The Sha Yuan Pill was a pill made primarily from third-rank demonic cores. It could help demonic beasts break through to third-rank.


    This pill required fewer rare supplementary ingredients, with the demonic core itself containing demonic energy. Its alchemical process was rtively simple.


    However, due to its fierce medicinal properties, the risk of bacsh from a failed breakthrough was extremely high.


    For this reason, the Sha Yuan Pill was only suitable for demonic beasts, and it was considered a cruder, stripped-down version of the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    In terms of suitability and value, the Sha Yuan Pill was inferior to the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Nevertheless, for demonic beasts, the effects of the Sha Yuan Pill were not much weaker than the Crystal Condensation Pill; it was just that the risk and potential bacsh were far greater.


    ¡°We do have one Sha Yuan Pill in stock, but it would take up to ten days to have it delivered from one of our other branches,¡± Hanyu Immortal said after a brief moment of thought.


    Ten days was eptable to Lan Chang''an.


    After attending the auction, waiting a few more days for the trade would be manageable.


    ¡°However, one third-rank low-grade demonic core alone wouldn¡¯t be enough to trade for a Sha Yuan Pill,¡± Hanyu Immortal added.


    ¡°You must understand that the main ingredient in a Sha Yuan Pill is a third-rank demonic core, but there are also supplementary ingredients and the fee for the third-rank alchemist who refines the pill¡­¡± Hanyu Immortal remainedposed and elegant, but she didn¡¯t yield an inch when it came to negotiating the value of the transaction.


    ¡°That¡¯s not entirely urate,¡± Lan Chang''an shook his head. ¡°The difficulty in refining a Sha Yuan Pill is rtively low. Using a third-rank demonic core as the primary ingredient, a single batch yields more than just one pill.¡±


    ¡°Besides, the demonic core I¡¯m offeringes from ate-stage third-rank demonic beast with a lightning attribute, making its demonic energy extremely pure and more valuable than an ordinary low-grade third-rank core.¡±


    ¡°In my opinion, your guild should not only provide a genuine Sha Yuan Pill but also offer some additionalpensation,¡± Lan Chang''an countered firmly.


    Hanyu Immortal smiled slightly, her lips curving in acknowledgment, ¡°Xiang Immortal is quite knowledgeable about the market. However, as a business, we must at least break even on our acquisitions. A deal without profit is a loss.¡±


    ¡°What profit? Your guild can¡¯t make friends?¡± Lan Chang''an, disguised as the elderly man, smirked, a bit shamelessly.


    Hanyu Immortal was momentarily taken aback, but her icy demeanor didn¡¯t falter, and she wasn¡¯t offended.


    In the end, the two sidespromised.


    Lan Chang''an would trade his third-rank demonic core for a genuine Sha Yuan Pill.


    ¡°I am staying at the Xunxian Residence. You may contact me within ten days, or the deal will be void,¡± Lan Chang''an said as he prepared to leave, the deal now finalized.


    ¡°Xiang Immortal, could you provide a deposit? It need not be of significant value, just a small token to show your sincerity,¡± Hanyu Immortal suggested.


    For major transactions, merchant guilds sometimes signed spirit contracts to bind both parties.


    However, binding a Fake Dan cultivator would require a third-rank spirit contract, which was costly to create.


    ¡°This supreme-grade magical weapon, your guild can hold onto it for now,¡± Lan Chang''an casually produced a metallic orb, gently pinched it, and lightly tossed it to Hanyu Immortal.


    He understood Hanyu Immortal¡¯s request¡ªit was mainly to prevent him from backing out and seeking out other guilds for the same transaction.


    ¡°Take care, Xiang Immortal,¡± Hanyu Immortal epted the magical weapon and took a quick nce at it, only for her expression to shift slightly.


    She noticed that the metallic orb had a perfectly imprinted handprint about an inch deep, still radiating residual heat.


    What was even more astonishing was that she hadn¡¯t sensed any magical fluctuations when it happened.


    ¡°He did that effortlessly with just his physical strength¡­¡±


    ¡°Could he really be¡­ that person from the rumors?¡±


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s once calm heart was now disturbed, and her icy blue eyes followed the departing Fake Dan cultivator.


    She realized that this disy of strength was a warning¡ªtelling the Snow Fox Merchant Association not to try any tricks during the transaction.


    A Fake Dan cultivator who had refined his body to quasi-third-rank was an elite among his peers.


    Even a True Dan cultivator in the early stage wouldn¡¯t be able to deal with him quickly.


    ...


    That evening, Lan Chang''an returned to his room at the Xunxian Residence.


    Earlier in the day, using the Nine Seal Stele, he had secretly monitored the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s headquarters with his spiritual sense.


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s actions showed no signs of suspicion¡ªshe had indeed sent out orders to contact higher-ups within the guild to rush the delivery of the pill.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Hanyu Immortal seemed to hold a certain amount of fear regarding his strength and identity, and she had not disclosed anything to any juniors.


    ¡°The Demonic Sect¡¯s influence has taken root in the border regions of the Jing Kingdom, even infiltrating the upper echelons of the Merchant Alliance. Moreover, by controlling key trade routes, they have significant sway within the Jing Kingdom¡¯s Merchant Alliance,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    He knew that most merchant guilds within the alliance were reluctant to make enemies of the Demonic Sect; some even had close partnerships with them for profit.


    In the cultivation world of the Jing Kingdom, sects didn¡¯t wield as much power. Though they held some enmity towards the Demonic Sect and had asional minor conflicts, for the most part, they kept out of each other¡¯s way.


    The main reason was that the Demonic Sect¡¯s influence had grown too strong, and dealing with them was not an easy task. They hadn¡¯t made any moves to seize control of third-rank spirit veins within the nation¡¯s borders yet.


    Moreover, the leader of the Demonic Sect, Liang Shaotian, was extremely powerful. The ¡°ck Dipper Demon me¡± he wielded was one of the ten great demonic mes of Great Qing. Upon cultivating it to the Small Aplishment stage, there would be few opponents below the Nascent Soul Realm.


    ...


    Three dayster, the auction at Cloudsmoke Immortal City was held as scheduled.


    Third-rank demonic cores, Foundation Establishment Pills, superior Life Extension Pills¡­ various rare items attracted the attention of many surrounding cultivation forces.


    At the Xunxian Residence, Lan Chang''an unexpectedly received a VIP invitation, delivered by the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    It turned out that the Snow Fox Merchant Association was one of the main organizers of this auction.


    The scale of the Cloudsmoke Immortal City auction was slightlyrger than that of the Huanglong Immortal City.


    With the VIP invitation in hand, Lan Chang''an was led by an attendant to an elevated VIP box overlooking the auction hall.


    ¡°In an auction of this scale, Foundation Establishment cultivators are the main participants, while Fake Dan cultivators are among the elite. At most, two or three True Dan cultivators will attend, and they¡¯ll likely be in the early stages,¡± Lan Chang''an observed the situation in the hall and felt reassured.


    Having purchased the information in advance, he was already aware of most of the auction items, with about 90% uracy.


    Among all the items, the one that piqued his interest the most was the second-rank superior Life Extension Pill.


    Lan Chang''an spected that his mainpetitors would bete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators and Fake Dan cultivators.


    Life Extension Pills were primarily sought after by the elderly.


    Ordinarily, older Foundation Establishment cultivators sought ordinary second-rank Life Extension Pills for their high cost-effectiveness.


    As for True Dan cultivators, with their lifespans of five to six hundred years, they usually sought third-rank Life Extension Pills. Most of the elder True Dan cultivators had already consumed second-rank Life Extension Pills.


    In addition, those who had already consumed regr second-rank Life Extension Pills would see greatly diminished effects from taking superior ones.


    Therefore, Lan Chang''an predicted that the chances of True Dan cultivators bidding on the second-rank superior Life Extension Pill were slim.


    Even if they did, so what? There were still Fake Dan cultivators with limited lifespans who would dare topete.


    After all, the difference between Fake Dan and True Dan stages was only half a major realm.


    In actualbat, three Fake Dan cultivators working together could barely stand their ground against an early-stage True Dan cultivator.


    In the VIP box to Lan Chang''an¡¯s left, three boxes away:


    ¡°Father, the patriarch is interested in the second-rank superior Life Extension Pill, but he didn¡¯t attend the auction in person. Could he be worried about the Xinyue Merchant Association making a move on our family¡¯s estate?¡± Xia Mingqu remarked, sensing the strong auras of several Fake Dan cultivators in the hall and feeling somewhat uneasy.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that serious,¡± responded Xia Mingqu¡¯s father, a tall, thin middle-aged man with a whiteplexion and a cloth cap on his head.


    Xia¡¯s father, Xia Yongzhong, was the president of the Wufu Merchant Association.


    ¡°The patriarch has already taken a regr second-rank Life Extension Pill. This time, he mainly sent us to try our luck. If thepetition is too fierce, we don¡¯t need to force it,¡± Xia Yongzhong exined with a smile.


    ¡°Hmm? Isn¡¯t Alchemist Wu here for this auction?¡±


    The hall was almost full, and both Xia Yongzhong and Xia Mingqu scanned the crowd but didn¡¯t spot Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°That¡¯s odd. I told him about the auction days ago. He¡¯s been searching for ate-stage Foundation Establishment breakthrough pill, and this auction happens to have one. Why wouldn¡¯t hee to try his luck?¡± Xia Mingqu wondered.


    The Xia family cultivators, of course, didn¡¯t realize that Lan Chang''an was nearby in another VIP box, attending the auction under the guise of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    ...


    An hourter, the auction entered its second half, and the atmosphere became increasingly intense.


    ¡°The next item up for auction is a highly anticipated treasure for many elderly cultivators: the holy elixir for prolonging life, the second-rank Life Extension Pill!¡±


    On stage, an old auctioneer with dark skin announced with excitement.


    ¡°This auction features three second-rank Life Extension Pills, one of which is the extremely rare superior second-rank Life Extension Pill! A superior Life Extension Pill can increase the longevity effect by more than 30%¡­¡±


    Before the auctioneer even finished speaking, the eyes of several elderly Foundation Establishment cultivators and a few Fake Dan cultivators lit up with anticipation.


    ¡°As everyone knows, a Life Extension Pill of the same rank only works once, and its effects cannot be stacked.¡±


    ¡°However, the superior Life Extension Pill is different. After taking a regr Life Extension Pill, consuming a superior one can still provide an additional two or three years of life.¡±


    After the auctioneer finished the introduction, the bidding for the superior Life Extension Pill began.


    ¡°The starting bid for the superior second-rank Life Extension Pill is 4,000 spirit stones, with a minimum increment of 100 spirit stones per bid.¡±


    Rare as it was, the superior second-rank Life Extension Pill only offered 30% more effectiveness than the regr version. Yet its starting price was already more than double what Lan Chang''an had encountered in the auction back in the Liang Kingdom.


    Lan Chang''an understood that this was due to marginal utility.


    Besides, the fact that a superior Life Extension Pill could slightly extend lifespan even after taking a regr one made it especially valuable.


    ¡°4,500!¡±


    ¡°5,000 spirit stones!¡±


    ¡°5,300¡­ 5,800¡­ 6,000 spirit stones!¡±


    In a short time, the price of the superior Life Extension Pill surged past 6,000 spirit stones.


    One had to know that even second-rank Foundation Establishment Pills, as strategic resources, often sold for this range at auctions.


    ¡°7,000 spirit stones!¡± Lan Chang''an decisively raised the bid by 1,000 spirit stones, his bold move drawing murmurs of discontent from several of the elderly cultivators.


    A few spiritual senses scanned him, probing his intentions.


    Lan Chang''an snorted coldly, unleashing his Fake Dan spiritual pressure and using his formidable spiritual sense to shake off any impolite probes.


    Severalte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators paled as their spiritual seas trembled, suffering a bacsh.


    ¡°What a strong spiritual sense!¡±


    Among the few Fake Dan cultivators who had beenpeting fiercely, two now regarded him with trepidation.


    The spiritual sense that Lan Chang''an had revealed was clearly stronger than that of an ordinary Fake Dan cultivator.


    ¡°7,200,¡± came a familiar voice, young and confident. Lan Chang''an recognized it as Xia Mingqu.


    ¡°8,000 spirit stones!¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s voice was domineering, and the bid had now far exceeded the pill¡¯s base value.


    ¡°Mingqu,¡± Xia Yongzhong signaled to his son to stop bidding.


    ¡°Child understands,¡± Xia Mingqu sighed.


    The Fake Dan cultivatorpeting for the pill was clearly powerful and mysterious, and not someone they could afford to offend.


    Besides, it was very worthless to raise the price any further. A regr second-rank Life Extension Pill typically sold for no more than 3,000 spirit stones at auction.


    ¡°Congrattions to this esteemed Daoist for winning the auction''s only superior Life Extension Pill,¡± the auctioneer announced enthusiastically.


    In the end, Lan Chang''an secured the superior second-rank Life Extension Pill for 8,000 spirit stones.


    Most of the remainingpetitors either feared Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength or simply felt that it wasn¡¯t worth pushing the price any higher.


    Fake Dan cultivators generally had wealth far exceeding 10,000 spirit stones, but having a liquid cash flow of that size to spend on a mere three years of extended life was rare.


    Moreover, there were other factors to consider¡ªresponsibilities, familial obligations, and so on.


    ¡°A regr second-rank Life Extension Pill can extend a normal cultivator¡¯s life by more than ten years with the first dose, but further doses have no added effect. When I first took one, it extended my life by over 20 years. However, subsequent doses diminished in effectiveness,¡± Lan Chang''an recalled.


    The fifth second-rank Life Extension Pill he had taken had still granted him an impressive 8-year extension.


    As of now, Lan Chang''an had 469 years left to live.


    ¡°Normally, a regr cultivator could expect a superior Life Extension Pill to offer an additional 30% extension, possibly even more.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was curious to see how much extra life he could gain from his first-ever superior second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    ...


    Just before sunset, Lan Chang''an returned to his suite at the Xunxian Residence.


    In addition to sessfully bidding on the superior Life Extension Pill, he had also acquired two third-rank materials.


    These third-rank materials could be used in the future to craft third-rank puppets or enhance the durability of his quasi-third-rank puppets.


    During the auction, Lan Chang''an had been quite assertive, drawing the attention of several factions.


    However, a powerful Fake Dan cultivator could easily bear the weight of such wealth exposure.


    After the auction ended, several factions sent representatives to visit Lan Chang''an, some probing, others attempting to curry favor.


    Lan Chang''an, remaining aloof, declined all visits, including those from other Fake Dan cultivators.


    Among the visitors was none other than Xia Yongzhong, the president of the Wufu Merchant Association, and Xia Mingqu¡¯s father.


    Lan Chang''an naturally made no exceptions, leaving the Xia father and son eat a closed door.

 Chapter 228: A Triumphant Return

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Two dayster.


    The flow of people in Cloudsmoke Immortal City greatly diminished after the auction concluded.


    In the Xunxian Residence.


    Inside the high-ss guest room in a secluded courtyard, Lan Chang''an set up a temporary formation and istion barrier.


    He sat in meditation, eyes closed, and consumed the superior second-rank Life Extension Pill he had bid for at a high price.


    Suddenly, a mysterious aura of the cycle of time began to surround him.


    It felt as though he had transformed into an ancient towering tree, experiencing the passing of seasons¡ªspring to autumn, withered wood rejuvenated, life cycles turning again and again.


    This time, the medicinal effectsted far longer than any previous instance.¡°An increase of twenty-eight years!¡±


    Lan Chang''an opened his deep, ink-ck eyes, now exuding an aura of ancient wisdom and timeworn experience.


    His state of mind had deepened, and even his magical power had subtly improved.


    Truthfully, the effects of the superior Life Extension Pill had exceeded his expectations.


    A flicker of surprise crossed his face as he pondered, ¡°Ordinary cultivators gain just over ten years from a regr second-rank Life Extension Pill, and at most fifteen years from a superior version.¡±


    Due to the unique nature of his Evergreen Technique, the effects of the Life Extension Pill on Lan Chang''an were doubled, and its life-extending benefits could even stack, although the potency of subsequent doses would gradually diminish.


    ¡°So, the superior second-rank Life Extension Pill''s effect is equivalent to resetting the benefits?¡±


    Lan Chang''an reached a preliminary conclusion.


    For ordinary cultivators, gaining this level of longevity would require taking a third-rank Life Extension Pill or consuming life-extending spiritual treasures of the same level.


    Reflecting further, Lan Chang''an realized that a superior Life Extension Pill was effectively half a rank higher than a regr one.


    If even ordinary cultivators could experience an additional extension of life from it, it was no surprise that he, with his special cultivation technique, would receive such a significant boost.


    ¡°My lifespan now stands at four hundred ny-seven years.¡±


    This was the sixth second-rank Life Extension Pill he had taken.


    He estimated that taking one more regr second-rank Life Extension Pill would push his lifespan beyond the five-hundred-year mark.


    "The medicinal effect is indeed good! Unfortunately, superior Life Extension Pills are exceedingly rare, as both the materials and the alchemists required to make them are in short supply."


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a tinge of addiction to the sensation.


    Having more years of life carried immense advantages for him.


    It not only increased his magical power but gave him more time to n for major breakthroughs, allowing him to avoid risking his life topete for resources.


    Furthermore, the Evergreen secret spell consumed lifespan to cultivate Xuanmu Vine and rapidly grow precious medicinal herbs.


    In the cultivation world, there were many powerful techniques that also consumed lifespan.


    For instance, the arts of divination and calction.


    In his second life, Lan Chang''an had only scratched the surface of this path. Besides not having the energy to pursue it further, he was also wary of the lifespan costs involved.


    The effects of the superior Life Extension Pill made Lan Chang''an have more expectations and ns for the future.


    ...


    After waiting three more days in Cloudsmoke Immortal City, Lan Chang''an finally received word from the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    Eight days had passed since their agreement, but Hanyu Immortal had not exceeded the deadline.


    Lan Chang''an made his way alone to the Snow Fox Merchant Association''s headquarters.


    This time, he was greeted not only by Hanyu Immortal but also by another Fake Dan cultivator from the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡ªa white-haired elder who had only about twenty years left to live and was the previous president of the guild.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that Hanyu Immortal, wary of "Xiang Immortal¡¯s" strength and identity, had invited apanion to back her up.


    "Xiang Immortal, here is the ''Sha Yuan Pill'' our guild expedited to Cloudsmoke Immortal City."


    Dressed in her silver robe, Hanyu Immortal¡¯s voice was cold and clear. With a graceful wave of her sleeve, she produced a jade bottle.


    When she removed the cap, a grayish-white pill surrounded by demonic energy came into Lan Chang''an¡¯s view.


    Lan Chang''an used his spiritual sense to inspect it and gave a slight nod.


    Inside his spirit pet bag, the Earth Burrowing Rat stirred excitedly.


    ¡°If Xiang Immortal is satisfied, we can proceed with the trade as agreed.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Lan Chang''an took out the dark purple third-rank demonic core.


    The two items floated toward each other under the control of their respective magical powers.


    No unexpected incidents urred; Lan Chang''an sessfully received the Sha Yuan Pill, smiling with satisfaction and feeling reassured.


    The smoothness of this transaction was due to the powerful image and potential identity Lan Chang''an had cultivated.


    Had it been an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator without any background, a transaction at this level might have been fraught with risks.


    Sha Yuan Pills were strategic resources controlled by major forces, given their ability to help demonic beasts break through to third rank.


    "Xiang Immortal is truly trustworthy! The Snow Fox Merchant Association is d to count you as a friend," Hanyu Immortal said with a rare smile, her expression softening like the melting of winter snow as she verified the demonic core.


    Although Lan Chang''an¡¯s demonic core had been downgraded to low-grade third-rank, its rare lightning attribute and pure demonic energy made it quite valuable.


    It would slightly improve the sess rate and quality of future Sha Yuan Pills refined with it.


    If they found the right True Dan cultivator, they might even be able to sell it at a high price.


    Lan Chang''an was well aware of this but didn¡¯t mind. This was simply the guild¡¯s reasonable margin of profit.


    Large merchant guilds had more extensiveworks and resources, including ess to master craftsmen¡ªan advantage that lone cultivators couldn¡¯t match.


    "I¡¯m honored by Hanyu Immortal''s kindness!"


    Lan Chang''an understood her implied message.


    ¡°Unfortunately, I am not from this region, so there may not be many opportunities for us to form a deeper friendship in the future.¡±


    If it weren¡¯t for the need to conduct high-level transactions like this one, Lan Chang''an had no intention of unting the identity of Xiang Immortal.


    At this point, the Snow Fox Merchant Association only suspected his identity¡ªthey couldn¡¯t bepletely sure.


    As for the other cultivators at the auction, they didn¡¯t even know his surname.


    ...


    After the transaction, the three of them sat down for some casual conversation.


    ¡°Xiang Immortal, you traded for the Sha Yuan Pill. Is it to help a spirit pet form its core?¡±


    The white-haired elder next to Hanyu Immortal stroked his beard and smiled as he asked.


    Lan Chang''an nodded. ¡°That¡¯s correct.¡±


    ¡°Demonic beasts forming their cores is different from our own process as cultivators. Has Xiang Immortal found a suitable location for the breakthrough?¡±


    ¡°This is still undecided.¡±


    Lan Chang''an hesitated briefly and then shook his head.


    Foundation Establishment cultivators needed to rely on third-rank spiritual veins to form their cores.


    For demonic beasts, their physical strength and bloodline yed arger role, so their need for a top-tier spiritual environment was somewhat reduced.


    In most cases, a quasi-third-rank spiritual vein was sufficient.


    However, ifbined with a Demonic Fiend Formation, supplemented by spirit stones and specific precious materials, it would create an ideal environment¡ªone akin to the demonic energy-infused spiritual veins found in ces like the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    In contrast, for a human cultivator to reach Core Formation, the environment of a third-rank spiritual vein was indispensable, unless they had rare treasures or unique natural treasures to assist them.


    In the Jing Kingdom''s cultivation world, Foundation Establishment cultivators typically had to borrow the third-rank spiritual veins of major merchant alliances¡¯ immortal cities to break through.


    This required applying through the merchant guilds, gaining their endorsement, and paying a fee in spirit stones.


    Breaking through to the third rank required vast amounts of heaven and earth spiritual energy, which could affect a city¡¯s protective formations. No matter where in the cultivation world it happened, it would require the local authorities'' approval.


    This was one reason Lan Chang''an had chosen to align himself with the Xia Family.


    With the Wufu Merchant Association backing him, it would be easier to get approval when he needed to form his core in the Jing Kingdom.


    "Our Snow Fox Merchant Association, which deals in demonic beast materials, has partnered with another guild to control a secret site within the ck Fog Mountain Range. It¡¯s a special spiritual vein particrly suitable for demonic beasts attempting to form their cores. There are even some small additional benefits.¡±


    Hanyu Immortal exchanged a nce with the white-haired elder before speaking.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s interest was piqued, so he listened attentively.


    ¡°This special spiritual vein isn¡¯t typically open to other merchant guilds or individual cultivators. However, if someone is on good terms with our two guilds and is willing to pay a certain price, exceptions can be made.¡±


    ¡°What is the price?¡±


    Lan Chang''an asked bluntly.


    Hanyu Immortal answered, ¡°It could be rare spiritual materials or perhaps a favor¡­¡±


    ¡°Hmm, I¡¯ll think it over once I return.¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood that the Snow Fox Merchant Association valued his strength and background, and since the transaction had gone smoothly, they were offering this as a gesture of goodwill.


    While the special spiritual vein in the ck Fog Mountain Range would indeed be a good ce for his Earth Burrowing Rat to form its core, it wasn¡¯t strictly necessary.


    Lan Chang''an could still use the Xia Family¡¯s quasi-third-rank spiritual vein,bined with a Demonic Fiend Formation and the right materials, to help his Earth Burrowing Rat breakthrough.


    Of course, the Xia Family would likely impose their own conditions if they found out about his ns.


    Moreover, if they investigated afterward, Lan Chang''an¡¯s true identity would likely be exposed.


    In the surrounding cultivation worlds, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t an especially important figure, nor was he wanted by any sects. As long as the Earth Burrowing Rat sessfully formed its core, even if his identity was revealed, it wouldn¡¯t matter much.


    ...


    Back at the Xunxian Residence, Lan Chang''an pondered for a while.


    ¡°I still have some time before I reach the ninth level of Foundation Establishment. I should first help the Earth Burrowing Rat form its core, ensuring it at least reaches the Fake Dan stage. Then, when I attempt my own core formation in the future, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s cultivation and strength will help protect me.¡±


    Lan Chang''an had already decided how he would approach core formation in the Jing Kingdom.


    After all, in this foreignnd, he had no trusted friends to rely on.


    If the Earth Burrowing Rat formed its core, it would serve as his protector.


    During the crucial moments of core formation, a cultivator''s focus would be entirely absorbed, making them unable to fight, and leaving them vulnerable.


    He recalled that when Fu Xuemei formed her core, external battles couldn¡¯t affect her at all. At most, others could offer talismans or talismanic treasures to protect her from outside.


    Lan Chang''an had spent over a hundred years with the Earth Burrowing Rat, and with their spirit pet contract in ce, he wasn¡¯t worried about betrayal.


    His spiritual sense and body were also exceptionally strong, and he had the Nine Seal Stele as a trump card.


    Even if the Earth Burrowing Rat reached third rank and formed a true core, without a great gulf in its spiritual soul, it would be difficult for it to devour its master and forcibly get rid of the spirit contract.


    Before leaving Cloudsmoke Immortal City, Lan Chang''an summoned Wang Feng.


    ¡°Senior, do you have any instructions?¡±


    Wang Feng bowed respectfully, not daring to breathe too loudly.


    Only after the auction had ended did Wang Feng learn that the old man in the straw raincoat he had been guiding was actually a Fake Dan cultivator.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving Cloudsmoke Immortal City. This is your reward.¡±


    Lan Chang''an flicked his sleeve.


    Twenty spirit stones and a jade slipnded in Wang Feng¡¯s hands.


    ¡°Thank you, Senior, for the reward!¡±


    Wang Feng expressed his gratitude sincerely and bowed again.


    His appreciation wasn¡¯t just for show. As a low-level cultivator now, he couldn¡¯t go anywhere without spirit stones.


    After being hunted by the Demonic Sect andter robbed by bandits, Wang Feng hadn¡¯t managed to retrieve his storage pouch when he fled to the Jing Kingdom.


    After escorting Lan Chang''an out of the Xunxian Residence, Wang Feng returned to his own quarters, where he examined the jade slip he had been given.


    ¡°A prescription for treating my injuries?¡±


    Wang Feng¡¯s heart trembled as he read its contents.


    The jade slip contained a medicinal recipe tailored to treat the hidden injuries that had caused his cultivation to regress and damaged his meridians and dantian. The ingredients listed were rare and precious.


    Realizing that the senior had seen through his condition, Wang Feng felt a wave of fear.


    ¡°Could this senior be a true expert? Has he already discovered my true identity?¡±


    Wang Feng had a gut feeling that he might have missed a chance to return to the me Departing Pce in the Liang Kingdom.


    The other party had seen through his identity but hadn¡¯t made things difficult for him, indicating that there was no malice involved.


    Wang Feng quickly rushed out of the inn, but by then, the old man in the straw raincoat had already disappeared.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an had no desire to get entangled with "Young Master Wang," even though there were secrets that could potentially be uncovered from him.


    Young Master Wang¡¯s background involved a high-ranking elder in the me Departing Pce, likely ate-stage Core Formation Immortal, cing him at a level simr to Lan Chang''an¡¯s peak in his previous life.


    Thus, instead of making things difficult, Lan Chang''an chose to extend a small gesture of goodwill before leaving.


    The prescription would require quite a few rare materials, but if Wang Feng managed to gather the necessary spirit stones, there was a chance he could recover his cultivation.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    Having left Cloudsmoke Immortal City, Lan Chang''an reverted to his original appearance as the alchemist "Wu Fan."


    Now brimming with sess, Lan Chang''an flew toward the Xia Family''s estate in Qingsha Bay.


    The next day, he was half an hour away from Qingsha Bay.


    Lan Chang''an flew high above the vast Changhong River.


    Qingsha Bay was connected to this river, one of the threergest river systems in the Jing Kingdom.


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    As Lan Chang''an enjoyed the view of the river, he suddenly sensed the fluctuations of a battle.


    Focusing his gaze, he saw two gray-robed Foundation Establishment cultivators chasing down a tall, blue-robed female cultivator.


    "Help me, Daoist! I am Xia Shenn, a cultivator from Qingsha Bay!"


    The female cultivator was at the mid-stage Foundation Establishment. Though not stunningly beautiful, she was dignified and graceful. However, at the moment, she was in a miserable state¡ªher robe stained with blood, her face pale, and cold sweat dripping down her brow.


    She was clearly injured from the fight, and her magical power was nearly depleted.


    Whoosh!


    With the open view across the Changhong River, Xia Shenn spotted Lan Chang''an flying toward Qingsha Bay and, as if grasping a lifeline, she activated a secret technique to fly toward him.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist don''t mind your own business!¡±


    One of the gray-robed cultivators, a lean youth at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, was controlling a supreme-grade magical weapon in the form of a g, which stirred up a cyan-colored wind mist, unleashing sharp wind des to pursue Xia Shenn.


    ¡°You are¡­ Alchemist Wu?¡±


    As Xia Shenn flew closer, she caught sight of the round-faced, yellow-bearded middle-aged man and seemed to recognize Lan Chang''an.


    The two had never met before, but Lan Chang''an had a guess about her identity, recalling that Xia Wenyue had briefly mentioned her in conversation.


    ¡°As an external guest of the Xia Family, how can I stand by and do nothing when something happens near the estate?¡±


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t in a hurry. He summoned a supreme-grade magical weapon in the form of a silver shield.


    Hum!


    The silver shield shot out, expanding to several zhang in size, covering Xia Shenn and allowing her to meet up with Lan Chang''an.


    The two gray-robed cultivators were only at the Foundation Establishment stage, and although one of them was at thete stage, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t take them seriously.


    Being so close to the Xia Family¡¯s territory, he decided to lend a hand and curry favor with the family.


    ¡°Haha, Fellow Daoist Wu, you were forced into a contract with the Xia Family to only perform your duties as an alchemist. Why risk your life for their sake?¡±


    A loud, disdainful voice came from the brawnyte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Though his aura indicated he was at the peak of Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t paid him much attention until now.


    ¡°Heh, so it¡¯s you, Fellow Daoist Fang Zhong.¡±


    Lan Chang''an nced at the burly man, detecting a sinister aura, and immediately saw through his disguise. He couldn¡¯t help butugh lightly.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Wu, we once crossed paths aboard the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship. Step aside, and I¡¯ll spare your life,¡± Fang Zhong said sharply, his tone brooking no argument.


    Xia Shenn was badly injured, and her magical weapons were damaged. Using her secret technique had drained her body, leaving her in an overdrawn state.


    If Lan Chang''an refused to back down, Fang Zhong was confident he could kill him before any Xia Family reinforcements from Qingsha Bay could arrive.

 Chapter 229: Core Formation Spiritual Object

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    "Compared to our journey on the spirit ship three years ago, your cultivation hasn''t advanced in the slightest, but your arrogance has certainly grown," Lan Chang''an remarked with a light chuckle.


    He and Fang Zhong were both cultivators from the Liang Kingdom. They had once lived next to each other on the Jiuchen Merchant Association''s spiritual ship, enjoying drinks together and forming a decent rtionship.


    After disembarking, the two went their separate ways.


    Fang Zhong joined the stronger Xinyue Merchant Association and became one of their enforcers.


    In terms of treatment and status, Fang Zhong''s situation wasn''t actually better than Lan Chang''an''s.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, since you''re so determined to block my path, don''t me me for showing no mercy," Fang Zhong said coldly.


    A surge of violet-red spiritual light erupted around him, releasing the aura of a cultivator at the peakte stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Whoosh!With a snap of his fingers, several dark me orbs expanded to the size of water jars and hurtled toward Lan Chang''an and Xia Shenn like ming meteors.


    "Careful, Fellow Daoist Wu! This man''sbat abilities are indeed formidable!" Xia Shenn, pale-faced, warned as she strained her remaining spiritual power to activate her damaged robe.


    Boom! Bang, bang...


    The supreme-grade spiritual silver shield that Lan Chang''an had summoned dimmed instantly under the barrage, nearly slipping from his control.


    Lan Chang''an showed a trace of surprise. Fang Zhong¡¯sbat prowess was far stronger than he''d anticipated¡ªtruly worthy of someone who had fought on the battlefield for a cultivation sect.


    "Hmph!"


    Although it seemed as if Fang Zhong was attacking Lan Chang''an, his figure blurred suddenly, and in the next moment, he appeared several zhang away beside Xia Shenn.


    A ck spear, wreathed in eerie blue smoke, thrust fiercely toward Xia Shenn.


    "No..."


    Xia Shenn''s face turned ashen. Already severely injured from being hunted by a lean cultivator at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, she had no strength left to dodge.


    ng!


    At almost the exact moment, a brown-ck ore flew through the air, striking the tail of the ck spear.


    Crack!


    The second-rank top-grade brown-ck ore shattered on impact.


    The ck spear''s trajectory was noticeably diverted, shifting by at least forty-five degrees.


    Thud!


    The mid-Foundation Establishment stage cultivator trembled violently, frozen in ce.


    Confused, he looked down at the ck spear piercing through his chest, its eerie blue smoke curling around the wound.


    "Fang Zhong... you..."


    The lean mid-Foundation Establishment stage cultivator struggled to turn his head, his gaze filled with resentment as he red at Fang Zhong.


    Boom!


    His internal organs burst apart, the poison taking effect, and his body fell lifeless to the ground.


    "What... How is this possible?"


    Fang Zhong''s face darkened, his eyes wide with disbelief as if he''d just seen a ghost.


    His gaze flickered towards Lan Chang''an, unsettled.


    His first thought was that the scene had been a coincidence.


    But the fact that Lan Chang''an had managed to throw the ore so precisely, intercepting his ck spear, indicated a level of forethought. Otherwise, even ate Foundation Establishment cultivator wouldn''t have been able to aplish such a feat, given Fang Zhong''s advantage.


    "Fang Zhong, after cutting down your own teammate, could it be that you''re nning to defect to the Wufu Merchant Association?"


    Lan Chang''an, after a brief moment of shock, stroked his beard andughed, clearly pleased.


    Fang Zhong noticed the mockery in his tone and became enraged.


    "You''ll die together!"


    With a furious shout, Fang Zhong controlled the ck spear, sending it flying towards Lan Chang''an.


    Simultaneously, he vanished again, directly targeting the severely weakened Xia Shenn.


    Lan Chang''an understood Fang Zhong''s intention. Having lost an ally, he was desperate toplete his mission.


    Xia Shenn was gravely injured, with only enough strength to maintain the power of an early Foundation Establishment stage cultivator. A single strike from a peakte Foundation Establishment cultivator would easily kill her.


    The battle was taking ce near the Xia Family''s territory in Qingsha Bay, and time was running short.


    Lan Chang''an''s throat tightened as he mustered his mana, his cultivation surging once more. He summoned the silver shield once again.


    ng!


    This time, the silver shield held firmly, blocking the more powerful strike from the ck spear.


    "Has he taken some kind of secret medicine to boost his power to near thete stage of Foundation Establishment?" Fang Zhong''s heart sank as he noticed the change in Lan Chang''an.


    At the same time as blocking the ck spear...


    Lan Chang''an flicked his fingers, summoning a second-rank superior-grade defensive talisman, which materialized into a wall of water, assisting Xia Shenn by deflecting Fang Zhong''s frontal attack.


    At that moment, the faint sound of rushing air came from the direction of Qingsha Bay.


    Fang Zhong''s expression changed dramatically as he looked at Lan Chang''an, whose spiritual power had surged to nearly match ate Foundation Establishment stage cultivator. He realized that the situation was no longer in his favor.


    "A mere loose cultivator like Fellow Daoist Wu can actually hold his own in a battle like this? I underestimated you," Fang Zhong remarked with a cold stare that lingered on Lan Chang''an for a moment.


    Realizing his chances were slim, Fang Zhong abandoned his pursuit of Xia Shenn, activating a secret technique. Blood-red light rippled across his body, and he fled with a speed that nearly rivaled a Fake Dan cultivator.


    ...


    "Fang Zhong, for the sake of our acquaintance on the spirit ship, I''ll spare your life this time," Lan Chang''an''s calm voice carried to Fang Zhong''s ears.


    The fleeing Fang Zhong shuddered upon hearing this warning.


    Little did he know that he had just escaped from the jaws of death.


    Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t killed him for two reasons.


    First, they were both cultivators from the Liang Kingdom, and there was no real enmity between them, only a difference in stance.


    Second, Lan Chang''an''s identity in the Wufu Merchant Association was that of a mid-Foundation Establishment stage alchemist.


    Taking a secret medicine to temporarily boost his spiritual power and skirmishing with ate Foundation Establishment cultivator was already impressive. The gap between mid- andte-Foundation Establishment was significant.


    To kill someone like Fang Zhong, who was at the peak ofte Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an would need the strength of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Even the prodigies of this era couldn¡¯t achieve that level of power while still in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage.


    Ssh!


    Xia Shenn finally copsed, blood trickling from the corner of her mouth. Her tall figure, d in a blue dress, wobbled as she plummeted toward the river.


    "Miss Xia."


    Lan Chang''an stepped on his flying light and caught her just in time.


    Squeak!


    Without needing Lan Chang''an''smand, the Earth Burrowing Rat dove into the river, scavenging the loot from the body of the lean mid-Foundation Establishment stage cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu..."


    Xia Shenny in Lan Chang''an''s arms, her eyelids fluttering as she felt the warmth of the unfamiliar man holding her.


    Lan Chang''an, hearing the distant sound of flying cultivators approaching, knew he didn¡¯t want Xia Shenn to pass out in his arms. It would only lead to unnecessary misunderstandings and exnationster.


    He quickly pulled out two pills¡ªone for healing and one for replenishing spiritual power¡ªand gave them to Xia Shenn.


    cing his other hand on her back, he used his spiritual power to guide the pills'' effects.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an had be a second-rank alchemist, his Evergreen mana was particrly adept at healing, and he was considered to be slightly experienced in medical arts.


    Within moments...


    A second-rank top-grade flying boat carrying three Foundation Establishment cultivators arrived at the scene of the battle.


    Xia Shenn, having recovered some of her mana, still looked pale and weak.


    "Uncle Yong! Mingqu!" Xia Shenn called out, her face blushing slightly as she remained in Lan Chang''an¡¯s arms.


    Her body was still too weak to move, and when she tried to use her spiritual power, it aggravated her internal injuries, causing her to let out a soft moan.


    Xia Mingqu and his father, Xia Yongzhong, exchanged nces, their expressions slightly awkward.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an personally helped Xia Shenn sit on the flying boat to recover, easing the ufortable atmosphere.


    ...


    "Shenn, how did you end up in such a state?" On the way back, Xia Yongzhong, seeing that Xia Shenn''s injuries had stabilized, finally asked.


    By now, Lan Chang''an had learned about Xia Shenn¡¯s identity.


    She was a member of the Xia Family who had married into another family. By seniority, she was Xia Mingqu¡¯s cousin.


    Though she was married, it was more of a political alliance between her Xia Family and the second-ranking Xin Family within the Wufu Merchant Association.


    "I returned from the Xin Family with important news to report to the n leader," Xia Shenn exined. "On my way near Qingsha Bay, I was ambushed by two Foundation Establishment cultivators. One of them, who was at thete stage, was especially terrifying..."


    "I exhausted all my life-saving techniques and was severely injured. I thought I was going to die, but luckily, Fellow Daoist Wu here helped me hold on until reinforcements arrived."


    At this, Xia Shenn nced gratefully at Lan Chang''an.


    Since Lan Chang''an had been involved, he had to exin some of the details himself.


    "I consumed a Wuxuan Pill, which boosted my spiritual power, allowing me to barely hold my own against ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator. It was also pure luck that Fang Zhong''s attacks identally killed his own ally..."


    As Lan Chang''an recounted the events, Xia Shenn confirmed his story.


    The Xia Family cultivators were slightly surprised by Lan Chang''an''s battle prowess but didn''t overthink it. Given that Lan Chang''an was a second-rank alchemist, it was only natural for him to possess pills that enhanced his spiritual power.


    Upon returning to Qingsha Bay...


    Xia Yongzhong and his son privately spoke with Lan Chang''an, expressing their gratitude.


    "Fellow Daoist Wu, for saving Shenn today, my Xia Family owes you a favor. In the future, if you have any requests, feel free to ask."


    Xia Yongzhong, the president of the Wufu Merchant Association, made this promise with the utmost sincerity.


    "President Xia, you¡¯re too kind."


    He had saved her life in passing, and gaining the Xia Family¡¯s favor was exactly what he had hoped for.


    Lan Chang''an did have certain needs from the Xia Family and the Wufu Merchant Association.


    At the very least, he required a stable cultivation site and a ce to refine his alchemical skills.


    Moreover, the Earth Burrowing Rat would soon need a high-grade spiritual vein to form its core, and the Xia Family¡¯s quasi-third-rank spiritual vein was a strong candidate.


    In the future, when Lan Chang''an attempted his own Core formation, he would need to apply for the use of a third-rank spiritual vein from the Merchant Alliance¡¯s Immortal City. With the Xia Family¡¯s support, it would be much easier.


    Even if, one day, he broke his contract with the Wufu Merchant Association and left, that would settle the favor without any lingering debts.


    ...


    Back at Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an ordered the Earth Burrowing Rat to enter seclusion and adjust its condition.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had already reached the peak of the second rank, unable to advance any further.


    At this stage, the key was to regte its essence, energy, and spirit.


    Once its realm and mental state were perfected, it would be ready to form its core.


    During the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s seclusion over the next few months, Lan Chang''an had two major tasks to n.


    The first was to finalize the location for the Earth Burrowing Rat''s Core Formation.


    The Xia Family¡¯s quasi-third-rank spiritual vein or the special spiritual site offered by the Snow Fox Merchant Association were both options.


    Thetter¡¯s effect might be slightly better, but the difference wouldn''t be too great.


    Lan Chang''an leaned toward the Xia Family.


    This was mainly due to the Xia Family¡¯s solid reputation, which Lan Chang''an had observed firsthand.


    The Xia Family owed him a favor, which he could now use to his advantage.


    If he went to the Snow Fox Merchant Association instead, he would owe them a favor or have to pay a hefty price.


    The second task was to secure the spiritual object for the Earth Burrowing Rat''s Core Formation.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had already acquired a Sha Yuan Pill, equivalent to the Crystal Condensation Pill, and it had a good cultivation site.


    However, it stillcked a Core Formation spiritual object to improve the quality of its Core.


    To be precise, it needed a superior spiritual object for core formation, such as the Tianjing Water that Lan Chang''an had once traded with Daoist Tianshu.


    Lan Chang''an had oncee across an ordinary spiritual object suitable for core formation in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world, but its effects were too weak to make much difference.


    "Superior spiritual objects for core formation are as valuable as Crystal Condensation Pills, if not rarer."


    Over the course of several months, Lan Chang''an had secretly ventured out of Qingsha Bay, disguising himself under various identities to try his luck in nearby immortal cities.


    As expected, he found no trace of a superior spiritual object.


    The Tianjing Water that Lan Chang''an possessed was reserved for his own core formation. He had no guarantee of obtaining a second one in theing decades.


    "Such is fate."


    Lan Chang''an sighed deeply.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, with its second rank superior-grade mutated bloodline and the Sha Yuan Pill, had solid foundations and decentbat power.


    If supplemented by a superior spiritual object, its chances of forming a True Dan would be quite high.


    Otherwise, it would likely only form a Fake Dan and have less than a 30% chance of achieving a True Dan.


    ...


    One day, Xia Shenn, now mostly recovered from her injuries, came to Autumnwind Isle to visit Lan Chang''an.


    "Please,e in, Fellow Daoist Xia."


    Lan Chang''an stepped out of his residence to greet her.


    Today, Xia Shenn wore light makeup and a flowing Ice Silkworm Immortal Dress. Her already elegant appearance now exuded a stunning aura.


    "There''s no need to be so formal, Fellow Daoist Wu. I¡¯vee today for two reasons: first, to deliver a gift as a token of thanks, and second, to visit Aunt Wenyue."


    Xia Shenn smiled, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.


    It wasn¡¯t that she was shy, but rather that her makeup naturally included a light blush on her cheeks.


    "You''re too kind, Fellow Daoist Xia."


    Lan Chang''an politely declined at first, but eventually epted the gift box.


    He didn¡¯t expect to be surprised by any gift from an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator. What mattered was the gesture itself.


    Dressed in a in robe, Xia Wenyue, a delicate woman as frail as a willow, entered the main hall to prepare tea for the two guests.


    Though Xia Wenyue¡¯splexion was pale, her beauty still surpassed Xia Shenn¡¯s by a fair margin.


    "Aunt Wenyue, let me take care of it."


    Xia Shenn, her eyes twinkling with amusement, took over the task from Xia Wenyue.


    Although Xia Wenyue held a high rank within the Xia Family, Xia Shenn¡¯s respectful treatment of her surprised Lan Chang''an.


    He simply invited Xia Wenyue to sit with them, and the three engaged in light conversation.


    With Xia Wenyue helping to bridge the gap, Xia Shenn and Lan Chang''an quickly grew closer, creating a rxed and friendly atmosphere.


    Before sunset...


    Xia Shenn bid her farewells, and Xia Wenyue escorted her to the edge of Autumnwind Isle.


    "Shenn, do you... like Alchemist Wu?" Xia Wenyue hesitantly asked.


    During this visit, she had noticed that Xia Shenn seemed intent on growing closer to Lan Chang''an, even subtly disying her charms.


    Xia Wenyue felt that, as a married woman, Xia Shenn''s actions might be considered improper.


    "Like? I suppose it''s not that serious."


    Xia Shenn tilted her head, pondering for a moment, not entirely sure herself.


    In her mind, the image of Alchemist Wu¡ªa middle-aged man with a round face and yellow beard¡ªfloated to the surface. She didn¡¯t dislike him, at least.


    After being saved by him in a moment of danger, Xia Shenn naturally felt a sense of gratitude toward him, which had evolved into a slight fondness.


    But this fondness wasn¡¯t necessarily the same as romantic attraction.


    "Aunt Wenyue, there are some things you wouldn''t understand."


    Xia Shenn sighed, her face showing a hint of bitterness.


    "My marriage with Xin Zhijing is purely in name only¡ªa political alliance between the families. Over the years, the conflicts between the Xia and Xin families within the Wufu Merchant Association have only grown. My rtionship with him has long been dead."


    "Hmm, I see. I misunderstood you then."


    Xia Wenyue reflected on Xia Shenn''s past. She had carried so much responsibility for her family, it truly hadn¡¯t been easy for her.


    "No, you didn¡¯t misunderstand at all."


    Xia Shenn left these parting words before flying away from Autumnwind Isle.


    ...


    A few dayster, the Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from seclusion, its essence, energy, and spirit in peak condition.


    Lan Chang''an descended into the underground chamber to meet with the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    "Have you fully absorbed the core formation method for demonic beasts from the Zhou Family?"


    "Alright, here are your core formation items."


    Lan Chang''an handed over the Sha Yuan Pill, two bottles of elixirs, and a piece of banana leaf to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s eyes gleamed with excitement as it eagerly swallowed the core formation materials, rubbing against Lan Chang''an in gratitude and joy.


    "It¡¯s a shame I couldn¡¯t find you a superior spiritual object for your core formation," Lan Chang''anmented.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat paused, hesitating for a moment before cautiously spitting out a dull yellow crystal.


    "A core formation spiritual object¡ªXuanyuan Crystal!"


    Lan Chang''an was taken aback, staring in disbelief at the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    The Xuanyuan Crystal was on par with Tianjing Water¡ªa superior spiritual object for core formation.


    "Not bad! You actually prepared your own core formation item!"


    Lan Chang''an stroked the rat¡¯s head, clearly pleased.


    He had a rough idea of how the Earth Burrowing Rat had obtained the Xuanyuan Crystal, but he didn¡¯t press for details.


    After all, the Earth Burrowing Rat had been by his side for over a hundred years, frequently collecting loot from battles, including those against Foundation Establishment cultivators, Fake Dan cultivators, and Liang Kingdom''s cultivators.


    With its keen sense of smell, the Earth Burrowing Rat had trained in the ck Fog Mountain Range and even spent several months in the ancient ruins.


    It also often stayed underground, where it might havee across some fortuitous encounter.


    Seeing that Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t angry about its hidden stash, the Earth Burrowing Rat visibly rxed.


    Squeak, squeak!


    It excitedly waved its paws, gesturing towards Lan Chang''an¡¯s storage pouch.


    "Oh? You think I still have another core formation spiritual object suitable for you? I can¡¯t give you the Tianjing Water."


    Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    It was already generous of him not to covet the Xuanyuan Crystal for himself. In theory,bining multiple types of core formation spiritual objects could further enhance the effects.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat waved its paws again, shaking its head.


    "Not the Tianjing Water? Then what else could it be?"


    "Wait, could it be¡ª"


    A sh of insight struck Lan Chang''an, and he pped his thigh. How had he overlooked such a natural treasure?

 Chapter 230: Spirit Pet Forms the Core

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Southeastern border of Liang Kingdom.


    Amidst a copsed mountain, dust still swirled in the air.


    A fierce Core Formation-level battle had just ended.


    Zhang Tieshan coughed up blood, forcibly circting his spiritual power to stabilize his shaking and weakened body.


    Looking at the corpse of the True Dan stage cultivator not far away, a gleam of joy shed in his eyes.


    "Not bad. A Fake Dan cultivator managing to y a full-powered True Dan stage cultivator. Even in the grand and ancient Central State''s cultivation world, it''s a rare sight."


    A childlike yet deliberately aged voice echoed in Zhang Tieshan''s mind.


    "If not for your help, Senior Artifact Spirit, this junior wouldn¡¯t have been able to achieve this," Zhang Tieshan said humbly as he stepped forward to collect the spoils from the Feng Kingdom True Dan cultivator¡¯s body.Three years ago, after trading for the Five Element Earth from Lan Chang''an, the progress in restoring his spiritual treasure fragment had advanced significantly, awakening more of the treasure¡¯s spiritual power.


    Though it could only unleash a portion of its abilities and for a short time, it was already enough to suppress most ordinary magical treasures.


    "When do you n to reform your core?"


    "After this mission, I was hunted by the Feng Kingdom¡¯s True Dan cultivators. This is the perfect opportunity to leave the sect and battlefield for a while. Once my wounds are healed, I¡¯ll head to Wangyue Immortal City to transform the core back into liquid and form my core again."


    Zhang Tieshan swallowed two pills and answered respectfully.


    "Hmm. With my assistance, your Core Formation will be smooth. If I grant you a bit of spiritual treasure energy, it could even enhance the quality of your core."


    "Thank you for the generous gift, Senior!" Zhang Tieshan eximed joyfully.


    "If you can help this Artifact Spirit recover more fragments and absorb other pieces of spiritual essence, this minor benefit is nothing."


    The childlike voice continued.


    "By the way, you can use that remaining portion of Five Elements Soil during your Core Formation."


    "Five Element Earth?" Zhang Tieshan asked, puzzled.


    "Five Elements Soil, also known as the universal soil source, can be used as a spiritual object for Core Formation. Not only can it improve the quality of the core, but it also stabilizes the formation process, reducing risk."


    "Unfortunately, since your cultivation method isn¡¯t earth-based, it won¡¯t yield its full potential as a core-forming spiritual object."


    ...


    Back at Autumnwind Isle, in the underground chamber beneath the residence.


    Lan Chang''an took out two jars of Five Element Earth, one of which was only half full.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement, nearly drooling as it stared at the two jars in its master¡¯s hand.


    "Five Elements Soil¡ªthe legendary Heaven and Earth spiritual object, the universal soil source. And the Earth Burrowing Rat is a creature of the earth element..." Lan Chang''an quickly understood.


    He recalled that he had only ever encountered brief mentions of the Five Element Earth in ancient texts and was unclear on its full uses.


    At the moment, Lan Chang''an could only confirm that the Five Element Earth could be used as a core-forming spiritual object for earth-elemental beasts or cultivators with earth-aligned cultivation methods.


    Whether it could be used as a general-purpose core formation item was still uncertain.


    "If the Five Elements Soil can be universally used as a spiritual object, then that trade with Zhang Tieshan might not have been as advantageous as I thought..." Lan Chang''an mused.


    Fortunately, he had strictly controlled the amount of Five Element Earth he traded.


    If that superior Core Dissolution Technique could significantly enhance the quality of his future core, then the deal would still be worth it.


    "Hmm, this half jar of Five Element Earth¡ªshould be enough for you, right?" Lan Chang''an asked with a smile.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat nodded eagerly, like a chick pecking at grain, extending its paw to receive the half jar of Five Element Earth.


    But just as it was about to take it, Lan Chang''an seemed to think of something and pulled the jar back.


    Squeak?


    The Earth Burrowing Rat looked puzzled, staring pitifully at its master.


    "Follow me!"


    Lan Chang''an led the way through a tunnel, heading toward the bottom of a deep pool.


    At the bottom of this pool stood a stone chamber, concealed by a formation that shielded it from water.


    Inside the chamber was arge porcin vat filled with multicolored soil, where the Xuanmu Vine was nted. The vat had arge hole at its base, allowing the Five Element Earth within to connect with the soil of thekebed and absorb the natural essence of the earth.


    Nearby, the Profound Water Turtle was busy performing a cloud rain spell, watering the Xuanmu Vine.


    Focused intently on its task, the Profound Water Turtle didn¡¯t even notice Lan Chang''an and the Earth Burrowing Rat enter the chamber.


    Although the Profound Water Turtle was normallyzy, it was very diligent when it came to watering the Xuanmu Vine.


    This unusual behavior led Lan Chang''an to suspect that the turtle was gaining some hidden benefit from the process.


    However, he had yet to observe any significant changes in the turtle.


    Lan Chang''an himself frequently nourished the vine with his Evergreen mana, but he hadn¡¯t felt any clear benefits either.


    Puh-oh!


    Annoyed by the disturbance, the Profound Water Turtle let out a grumpy noise as Lan Chang''an dug a small portion of the Five Element Earth near the gourd vine.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat shot a stern re at the turtle, which quickly quieted it down.


    "Is this enough?"


    Lan Chang''an handed the small portion of Five Element Earth to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    After regrly nourishing the Xuanmu Vine, Lan Chang''an had discovered that the Five Element Earth from this spot seemed to possess greater spiritual essence¡ªan indescribable vitality.


    Inparison, the Five Elements Soil stored separately seemed tock that same level of spiritual vitality.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat looked a bit disappointed as it took the reduced portion of Five Element Earth.


    After a brief exchange, Lan Chang''an confirmed that this amount of soil would suffice.


    The reason the Earth Burrowing Rat had wanted more was that Five Elements Soil, aside from being a core-forming spiritual object, had immense benefits for earth-elemental beasts in general.


    ...


    "A mere Earth Burrowing Rat, and it gets not one but two superior core-forming spiritual objects. Even the direct disciples of the me Departing Pce probably don¡¯t receive such treatment," Lan Chang''an thought to himself as he headed back to the residence, feeling a twinge of envy.


    It was a bit ironic that his spiritual pet was receiving better resources for core formation than he, the master.


    The Five Element Earth, as a core-forming spiritual object, wasn¡¯t necessarily suited to him.


    Even if it was usable, it wouldn¡¯t be aspatible with his attributes as it was for the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Still, with his Core Dissolution Technique, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t feel the need to covet the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s fortune.


    The Core Dissolution Technique he had acquired was a secret method for humans and wouldn¡¯t easily apply to demonic beasts unless it were modified.


    Furthermore, when he made the trade with Zhang Tieshan, they had both sworn an oath to their heart demons.


    The technique couldn''t be casually passed on to others.


    "With two superior core formation items, the Earth Burrowing Rat has a very good chance of achieving a True Dan. But allowing it to form its core at the Xia Family in Qingsha Bay might not be wise."


    Lan Chang''an knew he needed to adjust his ns.


    For a Foundation Establishment cultivator, even one at thete stage, having a spiritual pet at the Fake Dan stage was already an extraordinary fortune.


    However, this wasn¡¯t unheard of.


    Zhou Qingxuan from the Beast Taming Zhou Family had possessed a quasi-third-rank demonic beast while still at the Foundation Establishment stage.


    But for a Foundation Establishment cultivator to have a True Dan-stage spiritual pet¡ªthat would be something astonishing.


    If such a scenario urred...


    Lan Chang''an would instantly attract the attention of the top ranks in the cultivation world of Jing Kingdom, and his reputation would spread to the surrounding nations.


    Unless he had a powerful backing, this would be difficult to handle.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an had nned to have the Earth Burrowing Rat form its core at Qingsha Bay, considering the rtively low probability of this causing major issues.


    However, if it did happen, he would have to flee with the Earth Burrowing Rat and find a new ce to cultivate.


    Moreover, the Jing Kingdom Merchant Alliance would likely investigate his background thoroughly, which could lead to his true identity being exposed.


    "Unfortunately, the phenomenon caused by core formation is difficult to conceal. Even a third-rank grand formation wouldn''t be enough to hide it."


    Lan Chang''an felt a headacheing on.


    The celestial phenomena generated during core formation would reveal the quality of the core.


    At least in his previous life, there had been no way to conceal this.


    Perhaps only cultivators at the Nascent Soul stage or above, or highly skilled formation masters, might possess such abilities.


    "It seems I''ll have to coborate with the Snow Fox Merchant Association. Their secluded spiritual vein site is more suited for demonic beasts, and more importantly, it''s in a remote location. The core formation phenomena won''t attract much attention..."


    With his ns altered, Lan Chang''an knew he needed to make more thorough preparations.


    ...


    Back in the underground chamber at Autumnwind Isle.


    Having obtained the Five Element Earth, the Earth Burrowing Rat entered seclusion once more.


    By absorbing the essence of the soil source within the Five Element Earth, it could further strengthen its foundation.


    Meanwhile, Lan Chang''an focused on a heavy, halfpleted puppet, pouring all his attention into perfecting its design.


    In the blink of an eye, half a year passed.


    Finally, Lan Chang''an made a breakthrough in his puppet-making skills, sessfully crafting a quasi-third-rank puppet.


    "With this puppet, even if an early True Dan cultivatores, I¡¯ll be able to withstand them head-on."


    Lan Chang''an examined the armored puppet before him, which wielded a massive shield.


    Puppet crafting wasn¡¯t as intricate as refining magical weapons or treasures. As long as the materials were durable enough, the puppet would function properly.


    Puppet masters didn¡¯t need to understand the core techniques of artifact refining. Their primary focus was on forging materials, mechanical construction, and soul-based puppet control techniques.


    Of course, for certain high-endponents, puppet masters could still seek the help of artifact refiners.


    Satisfied, Lan Chang''an stored away the armored puppet.


    Not long after, the Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from seclusion, and together with its master, they made another trip to the bottom of the deep pool.


    Since they were nning to travel far, Lan Chang''an decided to take the Xuanmu Vine along, as well as the Profound Water Turtle.


    "You two stay here and look after Autumnwind Isle. I¡¯ve already prepared several months'' worth ofmonly used second-rank pills."


    Lan Chang''an summoned his two assistants, Xia Mingcheng and Xia Wenyue.


    Xia Mingcheng was a legitimate alchemy apprentice, a first-rank alchemist with decent talent.


    Xia Wenyue, on the other hand, leaned more toward pharmacology and medicine, serving as both an alchemy assistant and a maid on Autumnwind Isle.


    "Yes, Alchemist Wu."


    After receiving their instructions, the two bowed and left.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an flew toward the center of Qingsha Bay to meet with Young Master Xia Mingqu, notifying him of his impending journey.


    Since saving Xia Shenn, the Xia Family had grown even more trusting of Lan Chang''an.


    When Lan Chang''an mentioned his uing trip, Xia Mingqu didn¡¯t try to stop him.


    Half an hourter...


    Lan Chang''an left the Xia Family''s cultivation grounds with a peculiar expression on his face.


    During their conversation, Xia Mingqu had subtly tested the waters, probing into Lan Chang''an''s feelings toward Xia Shenn.


    It seemed the Xia Family wanted to match him with Xia Shenn.


    "Looks like Xia Shenn¡¯s rtionship with her husband in the Xin Family is on the brink of copse."


    "And Xia Shenn still hasn¡¯t returned to the Xin Family..."


    Lan Chang''an realized that the rtionship between the two most powerful families within the Wufu Merchant Association, the Xia Family and the Xin Family, had deteriorated to the point where open conflict was imminent.


    At its core, the tension stemmed from an unequal distribution of power and resources.


    Decades ago, the Xia Family had been the dominant force in the Wufu Merchant Association, with the guild leader''s position always held by the Xia family.


    But ten years ago, a Fake Dan cultivator emerged from the Xin Family, younger than the Xia Family¡¯s patriarch, Xia Hongyu.


    Although the Xia Family had ceded some power, the Xin Family remained dissatisfied, shing with the Xia family over their differing approaches to guild management.


    If Xia Shenn stayed with the Xin Family, she would bepletely isted and strictly monitored by her husband¡¯s family.


    ...


    One monthter.


    In the northern part of Jing Kingdom, within a branch of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    A steel fortress stood in a valley basin, concealed by a third-rank formation.


    Inside the side hall of the steel fortress, a man and a woman sat across from one another.


    "Xiang Immortal, I apologize for keeping you waiting."


    Hanyu Immortal, with her silver hair and snow-white robe, her skin as delicate as jade and her demeanor icy, politely apologized to Lan Chang''an.


    "No matter. After all, this spiritual vein site isn¡¯t solely owned by your merchant guild."


    Lan Chang''an, disguised as an elderly man with a straw raincoat and the surname Xiang, responded calmly.


    Half a month ago, Lan Chang''an had reached out to Hanyu Immortal from the Snow Fox Merchant Association, nning to borrow their special demonic spiritual vein located in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Hanyu Immortal had readily agreed but also imposed some conditions.


    In addition to paying a usage fee for the site, Lan Chang''an would owe the Snow Fox Merchant Association a favor.


    The guild only asked for a verbalmitment.


    Naturally, Lan Chang''an agreed without hesitation.


    Upon arriving at this secret base, Lan Chang''an learned that the Snow Fox Merchant Association shared ownership of the site with another merchant guild, and one of the guild¡¯s spiritual pets was currently attempting to break through to the third rank.


    "The formation and the training chamber are prepared. Please, Xiang Immortal, follow me."


    Receiving a message via jade slip, Hanyu Immortal gestured for Lan Chang''an to apany her.


    They walked side by side until they reached the heart of the steel fortress: a grand cultivation hall.


    This hall was equipped with a Spirit Gathering Formation and a Demonic Fiend Formation, its spiritual pressure nearing that of a third-rank spiritual vein¡ªperfect for a beast attempting to break through to the third rank.


    "What¡¯s yourpanion¡¯s name? And what kind of demonic beast are they attempting to raise to the third rank?"


    A burly man in a tiger-skin cloak stood at the entrance to the cultivation hall, his tone indifferent as he asked.


    Hanyu Immortal gave Lan Chang''an a knowing nce.


    "So, this is Huxiao Immortal from the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association."


    Lan Chang''an had heard of him before. Hanyu Immortal had mentioned that this man was the overseer of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association at this site.


    Upon arriving at this special spiritual vein, Lan Chang''an had also learned that although the Snow Fox Merchant Association and the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association jointly controlled the site, thetter had more authority.


    This was because the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association was far stronger and known as the best in Jing Kingdom when it came to beast taming.


    The Snow Fox Merchant Association had initially discovered this spiritual vein site, but after the information leaked, they had been forced to share it with the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association.


    "I¡¯m just a minor loose cultivator who formed a Fake Dan in a small ce. I haven''t yet taken on a Daoist title. The beast attempting to form its core this time is an earth-element demonic beast."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t reveal any useful information.


    He had previouslymunicated with Hanyu Immortal that this core formation for his spiritual pet would need to be kept highly confidential.


    Huxiao Immortal snorted coldly but didn¡¯t ask any more questions as he opened the door to the cultivation hall.


    The Snow Fox Merchant Association controlled half of the site¡¯s usage rights, and he had no reason to block their ess.


    ...


    "Huxiao Immortal''s previous quasi-third-rank tiger demon died in battle. Later, he raised the offspring of that tiger demon, which attempted to form its core a month ago by consuming a Sha Yuan Pill, along with a standard core-forming spiritual object. Unfortunately, the tiger demon¡¯s attempt failed. The pill¡¯s medicinal power was too intense, causing a bacsh that resulted in the tiger demon¡¯s cultivation level dropping..."


    Inside the cultivation hall, Hanyu Immortal exined the situation.


    This was likely the reason for Huxiao Immortal''s foul mood.


    "Understandable," Lan Chang''an nodded before listening to Hanyu Immortal¡¯s instructions on how to use the hall.


    "This formation token can control the hall¡¯s formations, adjusting the intensity of the spiritual pressure..."


    After a few more words, Hanyu Immortal left the hall.


    She was quite curious about the type of spiritual pet Lan Chang''an was raising to the third rank and what kind of core-forming spiritual objects he had prepared.


    However, Lan Chang''an had been tight-lipped, revealing no crucial details.


    Still feeling uneasy about the hall''s formations, Lan Chang''an added several moreyers of his own restrictions.


    He even ced isting materials crafted from Shadowstones around the cultivation bed, preventing any outside spiritual sense from probing the area.


    Once everything was ready...


    The Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from its spirit pet bag and sat on the stone bed in the center of the hall.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat nced at its master, then closed its eyes in peace, beginning to circte its bloodline power and demonic energy.


    Lan Chang''an sat a few zhang behind it, personally guarding the process.


    Half a dayter, the Earth Burrowing Rat had smoothly entered the initial stages of core formation, with its essence, energy, and spirit steadily rising.


    The early stages of core formation posed little risk.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze drifted toward the northeast, beyond the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Looking in that direction, his eyes seemed to pierce through countless distances, spanning across Jing Kingdom, passing by the Beast Taming Zhou Family and Wuqi Mountain.


    Further north, his gaze eventually reached the location of the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    "I''m already 146 years old. Thest time the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm opened was exactly fifty years ago."

 Chapter 231: Joining the Ranks of Great Demons

    Chapter 231: Joining the Ranks of Great Demons


    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    A few dayster...


    In the sky above the valley basin where the steel fortress was located, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth grew agitated, starting to converge inrge quantities.


    Dark clouds rolled across the surrounding area, while a heavy demonic aura condensed.


    An intense wave of demonic energy emanated from the cultivation hall, causing all the beasts in the nearby ck Fog Mountain Range to tremble in fear and retreat in all directions.


    "It¡¯s begun."


    In one of the side halls, Huxiao Immortal and Hanyu Immortal sat across from each other, their expressions calm.


    "Judging by the phenomenon, that Fellow Daoist¡¯s demonic beast must be an earth-elemental beast with a superior bloodline," Huxiao Immortalmented nonchntly, lounging back in his beast-skin chair.


    "Hanyu Immortal, you¡¯ve been so secretive about this person. For a moment, I thought it might be a beast with an earth-grade bloodline."Not long ago, Huxiao Immortal¡¯s own tiger demon, which had a superior bloodline, had failed its core formation attempt.


    Unfortunately, luck hadn¡¯t been on his side. The demon hadn¡¯t even formed a Fake Dan, and the violent effects of the Sha Yuan Pill had caused it to suffer a bacsh, resulting in a drop in its cultivation.


    "As long as the opportunity is right, even a demonic beast with a superior bloodline has a chance of bing a third-rank Great Demon," Hanyu Immortal responded coldly, catching the hint of mockery in his words.


    "At least this Fellow Daoist has a Sha Yuan Pill. From the aura of his demonic beast, it¡¯s clear that its foundation is solid. Forming a Fake Dan shouldn¡¯t be a problem."


    At this, Huxiao Immortal¡¯s face stiffened, his mood darkening.


    Hanyu Immortal was clearly taking a jab at him. Her unspoken meaning was that Huxiao Immortal¡¯s failure had been due to his impatience, rushing the cultivation of his demonic beast and leaving its foundation too weak.


    Huxiao Immortal¡¯s expression turned grim as he coldly snorted and extended his spiritual sense toward the cultivation hall.


    A flicker of astonishment crossed his eyes, and he said angrily, "That Fellow Daoist has set up so many defenses? Does he doubt our integrity?"


    He discovered that the cultivation hall was surrounded by multipleyers of restrictions,pletely blocking any attempts to probe it.


    Not only that, but arge puppet stood guard at the entrance, holding a shield. Judging by the materials used, it was a quasi-third-rank puppet.


    Such defensive measures would be difficult for even two Fake Dan cultivators to break through, let alone interfere with the core formation.


    Hanyu Immortal smiled faintly. "A little extra caution never hurts. Fellow Daoist Xiang is simply taking precautions against any potential troublemakers. Huxiao Immortal, surely you don¡¯t mind?"


    "Of course not! But that person¡¯s behavior is far too secretive. No name, no Daoist title¡ªit''s suspicious!" Huxiao Immortal¡¯s eyes shed with irritation.


    "Our Snow Fox Merchant Association guarantees his identity and respects his privacy. Your guild has also allowed cultivators with unknown identities to help their demonic beasts form cores," Hanyu Immortal countered.


    Her presence here was to keep an eye on Huxiao Immortal, ensuring that he didn¡¯t try to pull any tricks that might disrupt Xiang Immortal¡¯s demonic beast¡¯s core formation.


    Such situations had urred in the past. Without concrete evidence, the Snow Fox Merchant Association, being the weaker party, would be left with little recourse even if they suffered a hidden loss.


    ...


    Another four or five days passed.


    The core formation phenomenon in the sky continued to intensify.


    Whoosh!


    Above the cultivation hall, a swirling mass of yellow clouds appeared, forming a vortex with a radius of more than one li, exuding powerful spiritual pressure, and the yellow cloud vortex continued to expand.


    "Not bad, its momentum is strong," Huxiao Immortal remarked as he sipped his tea, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    At this point, the core formation phenomenon generated by the unknown demonic beast had already surpassed that of his own tiger demon.


    As long as the situation remained stable, forming a Fake Dan would be easy.


    Moreover, the phenomenon was growing steadily, without any signs of instability.


    Seeing this, Huxiao Immortal couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit sour.


    However, the situation quickly exceeded the expectations of both Huxiao Immortal and Hanyu Immortal.


    "It¡¯s still increasing?" Huxiao Immortal¡¯s face grew darker.


    On the tenth day of the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s seclusion, the yellow cloud vortex in the sky suddenly surged, expanding at an even faster rate.


    It wasn¡¯t until the vortex reached a radius of two li that its growth finally slowed.


    At the center of the yellow cloud vortex, the overwhelming pressure of demonic energy was beginning to exceed the threshold of a quasi-third-rank demonic beast.


    "A True Dan might be possible!"


    Hanyu Immortal and Huxiao Immortal were both shocked.


    Hanyu Immortal, however, felt more excitement than surprise.


    If Lan Chang''an¡¯s demonic beast could form a True Dan, the favor he owed her would be even more valuable.


    "Could that demonic beast be hiding its true potential? Perhaps it has an earth-grade bloodline or has been supplemented by a superior core-forming spiritual object?"


    Huxiao Immortal felt more ufortable than swallowing a fly. Thinking back to his own demonic beast¡¯s failed core formation, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of jealousy.


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s ice-blue eyes sparkled with wonder as she thought to herself, "Xiang Immortal¡¯s demonic beast just consumed a Sha Yuan Pill. Despite the pill¡¯s violent effects, the core formation process remains orderly, and its control is far superior to that of Huxiao Immortal¡¯s tiger demon."


    This showed that Xiang Immortal¡¯s demonic beast had a solid foundation and deep reserves.


    This wasn¡¯t something that could be achieved with just a single superior core-forming spiritual object.


    After all, mostmon core-forming spiritual objects only improved the quality of the core and had little effect on whether the core formation seeded.


    "If the Snow Fox Merchant Association gains an ally with a True Dan-level demonic beast, it would be greatly detrimental to my family," Huxiao Immortal thought grimly.


    Seeing the stable and steadily growing core formation phenomenon in the sky, Huxiao Immortal couldn¡¯t sit still.


    He pulled out a jade pendant and sent a message.


    At the same time, Hanyu Immortal also sent a discreet message to the upper echelons of the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    The birth of a third-rank Great Demon would undoubtedly alert the True Dan Ancestors of the merchant guild.


    ...


    Inside the cultivation hall.


    Lan Chang''an sat a few zhang behind the Earth Burrowing Rat, maintaining a watchful guard.


    A violent wave of demonic power now surrounded the Earth Burrowing Rat, making it impossible to get close. Its aura was so intense that it could injure any ordinary Fake Dan cultivator.


    The terrifying pressure of the demonic energy made even Lan Chang''an, its master, feel uneasy and suppressed.


    If not for the fact that his body refinement technique had reached a quasi-third-rank level and his spiritual sense was unusually strong, he wouldn¡¯t have been able to withstand being near the Earth Burrowing Rat during this process, let alone protect it.


    "The Five Elements Earth truly lives up to its name as the Universal Soil Source! Not only does it act as a core-forming spiritual object, increasing the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s foundation, but it also stabilizes the core formation process!"


    Lan Chang''an rxed, smiling.


    This added stability meant that the risks of core formation were significantly reduced.


    In this way, the intense effects of the Sha Yuan Pill became a benefit for the Earth Burrowing Rat, allowing it to maximize the pill¡¯s potential.


    Thanks to this increased stability, Lan Chang''an¡¯s task of protecting the Earth Burrowing Rat was far easier than expected, requiring little intervention.


    "Its demonic energy is crystallizing! The quality of the core depends on this final step," Lan Chang''an observed.


    Inside the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s body, its liquid demonic energy was beginning to solidify into tiny, grain-like crystals, resembling drops of mercury, forming like bamboo shoots after a rainstorm.


    These tiny crystals of demonic energy constantly gathered at the center, where under the immense spiritual pressure and the force of its bloodline, theypressed and condensed further.


    An emerging yellow core was gradually taking shape.


    With his experience from his past life¡¯s core formation, Lan Chang''an had thoroughly studied the process in theory. He carefully instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat to use the Five Elements Earth and the Xuanyuan Crystal at the appropriate times.


    The emerging core had already taken on the characteristics of a True Dan. After refining the two core-forming spiritual objects, its aura surged dramatically.


    The surface of the emerging core began to glow with five-colored mes and a yellowish halo.


    "It¡¯s stabilizing at the low tier of True Dan!"


    "It¡¯s reaching mid-tier True Dan... surpassing mid-tier True Dan... nearing upper-tier True Dan!"


    As Lan Chang''an observed, the quality of the emergent core rapidly and steadily improved.


    When it surpassed mid-tier True Dan, the quality of the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s core had already exceeded Lan Chang''an¡¯s from his past life!


    For the first time in a long while, Lan Chang''an felt a surge of excitement.


    Although it wasn¡¯t his own core formation, his spiritual pet had surpassed his past self in this life¡ªa form of victory in its own right.


    The quality of the core would affect the future potential of the demonic beast and also influence its overall strength.


    For example, if two cultivators with the same aptitude and cultivation techniques formed cores, the one with an upper-tier True Dan would possess slightly stronger magical power than the one with a low-tier or mid-tier core.


    Though the difference might not seem vast, in critical moments, it could make all the difference.


    ...


    "This kind of core formation phenomenon, could it be that it''s going to form an upper-tier True Dan?"


    Back in the side hall, Hanyu Immortal and Huxiao Immortal were unable to hide their shock.


    In the sky, the yellow cloud vortex had expanded to a radius of three to four li, its swirling colors glowing with five-colored light.


    The demonic power emanating from the cultivation hall was already at the level of a third-rank Great Demon.


    Huxiao Immortal, aside from his jealousy, began to feel anxious.


    "It¡¯s already in the final stage of core formation..."


    Huxiao Immortal knew that unless something interfered, a third-rank Great Demon,parable to a True Dan stage cultivator, was about to be born.


    In the cultivation world of Jing Kingdom, True Dan stage cultivators or third-rank Great Demons were considered high-level forces, capable of exerting a considerable deterrent for the major factions.


    Even more terrifying was the fact that this unknown demonic beast was likely about to form an upper-tier True Dan.


    This meant that in the future, the probability of advancing to thete third rank,parable to ate Core Formation human great cultivator, would be rtively high.


    There was even a faint possibility that it could one day ascend to the level of a Fourth-rank Demon King, capable of challenging Nascent Soul True Monarchs.


    Such was the advantage of forming an upper-tier True Dan.


    If the core quality were mid-tier or low, the door to bing a Nascent Soul True Monarch¡ªor in this case, a Fourth-rank Demon King¡ªwould essentially be closed.


    "What should I do? That bitch Hanyu Immortal is watching me, and there¡¯s also that mysterious Fake Dan cultivator guarding the process, not to mention the quasi-third-rank puppet..."


    Huxiao Immortal felt powerless.


    Even though he considered himself strong, he knew he had no chance in a three-on-one situation.


    This secret base in the ck Fog Mountain Range was guarded by a Fake Dan cultivator from one of the two merchant guilds at all times, along with several Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    With Hanyu Immortal monitoring him closely, it would be difficult to pull any underhanded tricks.


    Huxiao Immortal didn¡¯t want to take the risk¡ªthe chances of sess were too low.


    But moments ago, the patriarch of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association had sent him a message, ordering him to sabotage the core formation, even if it meant openly breaking ties with the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    Roar!


    From deep within the ck Fog Mountain Range came a terrifying beastly roar, interrupting Huxiao Immortal¡¯s thoughts.


    "A third-rank Great Demon! Has it been drawn here by the powerful core formation phenomenon?"


    Huxiao Immortal felt a surge of hope as he sensed the approaching demonic aura of the third-rank beast.


    Though this secret base was controlled by two merchant guilds, it was still located within the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    With such a powerful core formation phenomenon, even a third-rank Great Demon hundreds or even thousands of li away could sense it from afar.


    "A mid-stage third-rank Great Demon?"


    Inside the cultivation hall, Lan Chang''an¡¯s brow furrowed, his expression turning serious.


    This spiritual vein site was guarded by a Fake Dan cultivator and protected by a third-rank grand formation, making it more than capable of withstanding an attack from an ordinary third-rank Great Demon.


    At the very least, it would hold out long enough for reinforcements to arrive.


    However, with the Earth Burrowing Rat in the midst of its core formation, drawing in an immense amount of spiritual energy from the heavens and earth, the power of the third-rank grand formation had noticeably weakened.


    ...


    Roar!


    A massive third-rank bear demon approached the valley where the steel fortress was located, but it slowed its pace as it neared.


    From five or six li away, the bear demon cautiously observed the area.


    Perhaps due to some form of wariness or uncertainty about the situation, it hesitated and didn¡¯t make any further moves.


    "The power of the third-rank formation has been reduced by more than half. If that bear demonunches an attack, the consequences will be disastrous."


    Huxiao Immortal¡¯s expression turned grim as he took out a formation g and began walking toward the entrance of the side hall.


    "What are you doing?"


    Hanyu Immortal snapped, blocking his path.


    "Obviously, I¡¯m going to reinforce the third-rank formation. Do you want us to just sit here and wait for the bear demon to attack and put us all in danger?" Huxiao Immortal retorted righteously.


    He wasn¡¯t entirely posturing.


    Facing the prying eyes of a mid-third rank Great Demon, his heart did panic for the sake of his little life.


    "This..." Hanyu Immortal hesitated.


    Reinforcing the third-rank formation would require drawing more spiritual energy, which could affect the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s core formation process by reducing the amount of spiritual pressure avable.


    "Rest assured, Hanyu Immortal. I¡¯ll only strengthen the formation slightly. It might reduce the core¡¯s quality a bit, but it¡¯s better than all of us losing our lives," Huxiao Immortal argued, his logic seemingly sound.


    In the face of a life-threatening crisis, sacrificing a small amount of one person¡¯s gains to protect the group¡¯s safety seemed like the obvious choice.


    Hanyu Immortal fell silent, unable to find a rebuttal.


    Huxiao Immortal smirked inwardly, a cunning glint shing in his eyes. He sidestepped Hanyu Immortal, holding the formation g as he walked toward the entrance.


    "Hmph! If I¡¯m going to do this, I¡¯ll do it thoroughly!" Huxiao Immortal thought to himself.


    He nned to manipte the third-rank formation to its maximum power, cutting off the spiritual energy supply to the spiritual vein.


    At the same time, he intended to secretly disable the Spirit Gathering Formation within the cultivation hall.


    That way, at the critical moment of core formation, the demonic beast would suffer a massive drop in spiritual pressure, triggering a bacsh!


    ...


    Just as Huxiao Immortal stepped outside, ready to execute his n...


    Suddenly, his entire body turned cold, as if he had stepped off a cliff into a bottomless abyss.


    The night sky above was pitch ck, and below him was an endless chasm, as if he were falling into hell itself.


    "No!"


    Huxiao Immortal¡¯s mind filled with terror. He bit his tongue hard, trying to shake himself awake.


    Crack!


    A sharp, cracking sound echoed from within Huxiao Immortal¡¯s chest.


    When he finally broke free from the third-rank illusion and his consciousness returned to reality, he realized he had lost control of his body.


    To be precise, his body had already stopped breathing.


    "Huxiao Immortal, so you finally couldn¡¯t resist making a move?"


    A straw-robed old man stood before him, his tone calm as he shattered all the organs in Huxiao Immortal¡¯s chest with a single strike.


    "You... you all..."


    Huxiao Immortal¡¯s words were barely coherent as blood streamed from his seven orifices. He copsed to the ground, dead.


    In his final moments, Huxiao Immortal finally understood¡ªLan Chang''an had been prepared for him all along.


    As long as he dared to make a move to stop the core formation, Lan Chang''an would unleash a decisive, ruthless strike.


    "Xiang Immortal, you directly killed him?"


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s face turned slightly pale.


    She had discussed with Lan Chang''an beforehand that they would work together to stop Huxiao Immortal if he tried to interfere.


    Never would she have expected that when Lan Chang''an finally acted, he would simply kill Huxiao Immortal outright.


    This was a veteran Fake Dan cultivator, and even two cultivators of the same level might not have been able to take him down.


    "It¡¯s no big deal. If this brings you trouble, Xiang Immortal will owe you an extra favor," Lan Chang''an said generously.


    "Very well. When Xiang Immortal reaches great heights in the future, don''t forget today''s promise," Hanyu Immortal said, her cold, snowy face showing a rare smile.


    "I keep my word," Lan Chang''an replied firmly.


    Hearing this, Hanyu Immortal felt reassured.


    She nced toward the valley, where the third-rank bear demon still lingered, her expression filled with concern.


    "Xiang Immortal, what if that bear demon attacks?"


    "Rest assured, Hanyu Immortal. I still have a trump card up my sleeve. Even if that bear demones charging in, with you and me working together and the weakened third-rank formation, we can hold out until the core formation isplete."


    Lan Chang''an spoke confidently.


    "A trump card?"


    Hanyu Immortal thought about his background and felt a sense of security wash over her.


    She couldn¡¯t help but grow a bit more curious about Xiang Immortal, even feeling a hint of admiration for him.


    "I don¡¯t think that bear demon has malicious intent," Lan Chang''an said thoughtfully as he gazed toward the valley where the bear demon lurked.


    ...


    For the next half day, the bear demon continued to pace outside the valley but made no further moves.


    Then, at a certain moment...


    The massive cloud vortex above the cultivation hall began to dissipate.


    Waves of golden light radiated from the sky, swirling above the hall, apanied by faint echoes of Daoist chants that descended within.


    Lan Chang''an sensed that the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s core formation process was nearingpletion. There was something different about thispared to his own core formation or even Fu Xuemei¡¯s in the past.


    He hadn¡¯t been able to focus his attention on it before due to the potential threat from the bear demon outside.


    Boom!


    As the core formation phenomenon receded, a surge of True Dan-level demonic energy erupted from within the hall.


    In an instant, demonic energy shot skyward, causing the wind and clouds to churn, and all nearby beasts fled in terror.


    "The demonic aura has pierced the heavens¡ªthis is the aura of a Great Demon!"


    Lan Chang''an stroked his beard with a satisfied smile, his heart finally at ease.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had just advanced to the third rank, yet its demonic power rivaled that of a seasoned Great Demon.


    With such an intense core formation phenomenon and the overwhelming power it exuded, it had undoubtedly formed an upper-tier True Dan.


    At this point, even if the bear demon outside attacked, it no longer posed a real threat.

 Chapter 232: The Dao Charm of the Golden Dan

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Roar!


    Outside the valley, the bear demon sat down and called out toward the cultivation hall where the Earth Burrowing Rat was.


    Two waves of True Dan-level spiritual sense met in the air, exchanging thoughts.


    Through their spirit pet contract, the Earth Burrowing Rat ryed a message to Lan Chang''an.


    It turned out that the bear demon had been drawn to the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s core formation phenomenon and wanted to befriend it.


    Third-rank Great Demons possessed extraordinary intelligence and heightened senses.


    As a fellow demon, the mid-stage third-rank bear demon had a clearer sense of the quality of the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s core formation.


    "Haha, a third-rank bear demon. Seems it''s much smarter and more sensible than that Huxiao Immortal," Lan Chang''an chuckled.Of course, Huxiao Immortal¡¯s actions had been driven by his position and a jealous mind.


    The bear demon, initially drawn here, might not have had good intentions.


    Lan Chang''an had heard that the survival rules in the demon world were far more brutal, and when demons broke through to higher realms, they often attracted the attention of their peers.


    That bear demon hadn¡¯t made a move, probably after some careful consideration.


    After all, the Earth Burrowing Rat wasn¡¯t undergoing core formation alone. There was the protection of a third-rank grand formation and the presence of three Fake Dan human cultivators.


    Instead of risking a confrontation, it was wiser to befriend a promising third-rank Great Demon.


    With the bear demon¡¯s intentions rified, Hanyu Immortal let out a long sigh of relief.


    "Congrattions, Xiang Immortal! Your spiritual pet has formed an upper-tier True Dan and entered the ranks of Great Demons," she said with a bright smile, a hint of envy in her tone.


    By now, the Earth Burrowing Rat had sessfully advanced to the third rank and would no longer be affected by external interference. All that was left was to stabilize its cultivation base.


    "Fellow Daoist Hanyu is the first cultivator to congratte me! Let me show my appreciation!" Lan Chang''an grinned, retrieving six mid-grade spirit stones from Huxiao Immortal''s storage pouch.


    Hanyu Immortal blinked in surprise before smiling and epting the stones. "Then I¡¯ll dly share in the joy of a new third-rank Great Demon."


    She received the six mid-grade spirit stones, which were equivalent to 600 low-grade spirit stones, with grace.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s background was clearly significant. With a third-rank Great Demon under hismand, he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with True Dan cultivators, far surpassing her own status.


    There was also another reason behind Lan Chang''an''s gesture.


    By epting his gift, Hanyu Immortal understood that the responsibility for Huxiao Immortal¡¯s death would now be shared by the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    She knew this well. To win over a powerful Fake Dan cultivator with a third-rank Great Demon, the Snow Fox Merchant Association was more than willing to bear the burden.


    "Xiang Immortal, you should be prepared. Before his death, Huxiao Immortal sent a message to the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association. Their True Dan ancestor will be arriving shortly. Of course, I¡¯ve also informed my guild¡¯s True Dan ancestor," Hanyu Immortal warned.


    "What¡¯s the cultivation level of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association¡¯s ancestor?"


    "True Dan early stage."


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an rxed.


    At this point, he had two options:


    First, allow the Earth Burrowing Rat to stabilize its realm.


    Second, abandon the stabilization process and flee immediately.


    If they fled, it would hinder the Earth Burrowing Rat''s ability to consolidate its breakthrough, and the consequences of killing Huxiao Immortal would have to be borne solely by the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    Although it had been a transaction, Lan Chang''an felt some indebtedness to the Snow Fox Merchant Association for providing the Sha Yuan Pill and the training ground.


    More importantly, after the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s breakthrough to the third rank, Lan Chang''an had no fear of an early-stage True Dan cultivator.


    The bear demon outside the valley was also a potential temporary ally.


    ...


    While waiting for the arrival of the two merchant associations'' ancestors, Lan Chang''an sorted through Huxiao Immortal¡¯s storage pouch, eliminating any suspicious items.


    Although killing Huxiao Immortal had seemed straightforward, it had required careful nning.


    Lan Chang''an had used a treasure talisman with power equivalent to a low-grade third-rank talisman.


    Even with a third-rank talisman, killing a Fake Dan cultivator head-on wasn¡¯t easy.


    At the critical moment, Lan Chang''an hadmunicated with Hanyu Immortal through spiritual sense, instructing her to distract Huxiao Immortal.


    Using the Evergreen Technique to suppress his presence, Lan Chang''an quietly approached the side hall¡¯s entrance.


    His body refinement technique had reached the Fake Dan stage, allowing him to approach without using magical power, andbined with the Evergreen Technique¡¯s concealment ability, Huxiao Immortal hadn¡¯t noticed him in time.


    In the end, he had struck with his treasure talisman, and using his physical strength, managed to close the distance and ultimately achieve the effect of killing a person with one blow.


    If he were to strike head-on to kill a full-fledged Fake Dan, Lan Chang''an would have to go through some trouble even if he utilized one or two treasure talismans.


    Back in the ancient ruins, the two Fake Dan cultivators who had died by Lan Chang''an¡¯s hand had both been taken by surprise: one was already wounded when Lan Chang''an attacked from behind, and the other had been poisoned with a third-rank toxin, requiring considerable time to be killed.


    When it came tobatants of the same level, Lan Chang''an preferred to avoid direct confrontations. Who knew what hidden trump cards his opponents might have?


    As a long-lived cultivator, Lan Chang''an would rather be the crafty, seasoned Old Lan than the hot-blooded, reckless Young Lan.


    "Magical treasure... talismanic treasures... third-rank talismans..."


    In Huxiao Immortal¡¯s storage pouch, Lan Chang''an found several high-value items.


    As a core member of arge Merchant Association, it wasn¡¯t surprising that Huxiao Immortal had two third-rank talismans for protection.


    The spirit stones in his storage pouch were also substantial, bringing Lan Chang''an¡¯s liquid assets back to over 100,000 spirit stones.


    This meant that all the expenses he had incurred for the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s core formation had been recouped, with a small profit on top.


    This was the allure of killing and looting in the cultivation world.


    ...


    After wrapping up his work, Lan Chang''an returned to the cultivation hall.


    On the stone bed at the center of the hall sat the now transformed Earth Burrowing Rat, its muscr form radiating power, its breath stirring the air into violent, metallic winds.


    "You¡¯ve changed quite a bit," Lan Chang''an chuckled.


    After advancing to the third rank, the Earth Burrowing Rat had grown to nearly two zhang in length, with long, powerful limbs and bright orange-yellow fur. A tuft of purple fur now stood proudly atop its head.


    At first nce, it looked more like a sleek, muscr giant leopard than a rat.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat opened its brown-red eyes, nodding toward Lan Chang''an, its gaze filled with gratitude.


    Despite being a third-rank Great Demon now, Lan Chang''an could still sense a faint pressure under its gaze.


    "This rat, after stabilizing its cultivation, will be stronger than I was at the early True Dan stage in my previous life."


    Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    Fortunately, the pet contract between him and the Earth Burrowing Rat remained intact.


    Even when the bear demon attempted to recruit it, the Earth Burrowing Rat hadn¡¯t shown any inclination to defect, proving its loyalty to Lan Chang''an.


    Closing his eyes, Lan Chang''an merged his consciousness with the second imprint of the Nine Seal Stele. The enhanced power of his spiritual sense allowed him to examine the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s internal demon core.


    Sensing a spiritual sense far stronger than its own, the Earth Burrowing Rat stiffened but rxed its defenses, allowing Lan Chang''an to probe freely.


    Having spent over a hundred years together, it was well aware of its master¡¯s extraordinary abilities.


    Without Lan Chang''an, it would have burned into mes long ago when it tried to break through the second rank by taking the unusual Earth Spirit Pill.


    And without his meticulous nning for core formation, it would never have achieved its current glory as a third-rank Great Demon.


    "Hmm? This demon core..."


    A glistening, translucent yellow core, radiating a brilliant, ss-like light, appeared in Lan Chang''an''s spiritual perception.


    From its quality, it was undoubtedly an upper-tier True Dan.


    What surprised Lan Chang''an, however, were the faint gold patterns etched on the surface of the core.


    When his spiritual sense touched these golden patterns, he sensed a Dao charm that resonated with thews of heaven and earth.


    "Golden Dan Dao Charm!"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief.


    Not only had the Earth Burrowing Rat formed an upper-tier True Dan, but it had also brushed the threshold of a Golden Dan.


    "What a pity! If it had an earth-grade bloodline, it could have achieved Immortal Golden Dan."


    Lan Chang''an marveled in astonishment.


    An Immortal Golden Dan was the seed of a Nascent Soul!


    If it had attained an Immortal Golden Dan, even with just inferior spiritual roots, it would have had a significant chance of advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    In the cultivation world, as one progressed to higher realms, the influence of spiritual roots gradually diminished.


    The quality of one¡¯s core was a reflection of their foundation and future potential.


    "Strange... Although the Earth Burrowing Rat''s roots are solid, it clearly doesn''t have that deep of a foundation. Even with two superior core-forming spiritual objects, upper-tier True Dan should¡¯ve been its limit..."


    Lan Chang''an pondered deeply.


    "Could it be due to the Five Elements Earth, there is a special enhancement for earth-element beasts?"


    He couldn¡¯t be certain of the exact reason.


    The Five Elements Earth he had given the Earth Burrowing Rat had been dug from near the Xuanmu Vine. Perhaps that had something to do with it.


    Lan Chang''an made a decision: when it came time for his own core formation, he would also dig up some Five Elements Earth from around the Xuanmu Vine to use as his core-forming spiritual object.


    After all, the Earth Burrowing Rat had already paved the way, testing the waters for him.


    "The littleb rat from back then has actually be a half-step Golden Dan."


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his spiritual sense, feeling an odd mix of emotions¡ªperhaps even a hint of jealousy.


    It was worth noting that, in this life, his initial n was only to form an upper-tier True Dan, ensuring a potential path to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Years ago, the Earth Burrowing Rat had agreed to take a risky pill, gambling with its life as a test subject.


    Thankfully, with the support of the Evergreen Technique, the littleb rat had not only survived but had its bloodline mutated, bringing about its current sess.


    ...


    Not wanting to disturb the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s cultivation, Lan Chang''an left the hall.


    While he was thrilled with the Earth Burrowing Rat''s half-step Golden Dan, he also had some concerns.


    An upper-tier True Dan, while impressive, was not umon in the surrounding cultivation countries.


    As long as ate Foundation Establishment cultivator had decent aptitude and a good opportunity, there was always a chance to form an upper-tier True Dan.


    A half-step Golden Dan, however, would attract attention.


    If exposed, it could draw the interest ofte-stage Core Formation experts or even Nascent Soul cultivators.


    "As long as the Earth Burrowing Rat doesn¡¯t go all out in battle, ordinary True Dan cultivators won¡¯t notice. After all, much of a demonic beast¡¯s strengthes from its bloodline."


    Lan Chang''an mused.


    He had been able to discern the Earth Burrowing Rat''s core quality only because it had fully opened itself to him.


    Normally, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s body would be shielded by its demonic energy and spiritual sense, making it difficult for anyone, unless they were vastly more powerful, to probe its true condition.


    To be safe, the Earth Burrowing Rat should avoid direct confrontations with other True Dan cultivators.


    Half an hourter...


    Two waves of True Dan-level auras arrived one after the other at the steel fortress in the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    The two True Dan cultivators sensed the mid-stage third-rank bear demon lurking outside the valley and exchanged wary nces.


    "Grandfather Guangjun."


    Hanyu Immortal waved her formation g and stepped forward to greet them.


    The True Dan ancestor of the Snow Fox Merchant Association, known as Guangjun Immortal, was an ancient man with white hair, wrinkled skin, and a cane.


    "Guangjun Immortal, I¡¯ve long heard of your great name."


    Lan Chang''an cupped his hands in greeting.


    "Congrattions, Xiang Immortal! What a great achievement!"


    Guangjun Immortal¡¯s wrinkled face broke into a kind smile, treating Lan Chang''an as an equal.


    There was a half-realm gap between Fake Dan cultivators and True Dan cultivators.


    In some cases, they would treat each other as peers; in others, the Fake Dan cultivators would show deference and respect.


    This dependedrgely on the power and attitude of the True Dan cultivator.


    With a third-rank Great Demon under hismand, Lan Chang''an, though pretending to be a Fake Dan cultivator, was entitled to stand on equal footing with True Dan cultivators.


    ...


    "Guangjun, your Snow Fox Merchant Association has conspired with outsiders to murder one of our members, Huxiao Immortal. Don¡¯t you think an exnation is in order?"


    A hostile voice came from the other True Dan cultivator who had arrived¡ªa yellow-skinned middle-aged man dressed in a leather cloak, riding atop a giant wolf.


    The man¡¯s skin was yellow as a grapefruit, and his deep-set eyes gleamed coldly.


    The giant wolf beneath him, a quasi-third-rank beast, shivered with fear in the presence of two third-rank Great Demons nearby.


    "Old Huang, your guild member, Huxiao Immortal, tried to sabotage the core formation of our guild¡¯s friend¡¯s spirit pet. He was killed in the process. Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s his own fault?"


    Guangjun Immortal chuckled as he nced at his old rival.


    Lan Chang''an exchanged a nce with Hanyu Immortal, who confirmed the man¡¯s identity.


    This yellow-skinned man was the True Dan ancestor of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, known as Huang Lang Immortal¡ªa notorious merchant within the Merchant Alliance.


    He was known for prioritizing business over the Dao and never took a Daoist title.


    The outside world gave him the name "Huang Lang Immortal" due to his surname "Huang," and among his peers, he was often called "Old Huang."


    While his cultivation level was not outstanding, he was exceptionally skilled in business, with a reputation that was both admired and criticized.


    Even after advancing to the True Dan stage, he still personally managed much of the guild''s business, never fully delegating authority.


    "Killed in the process?"


    Huang Lang Immortal sneered, his gaze locking onto Lan Chang''an.


    "And what is this Fellow Daoist¡¯s name?"


    "Call me Xiang!"


    Lan Chang''an met his gaze without flinching, his tone full of pride.


    "I will petition the higher-ups of the Merchant Alliance to investigate the death of Huxiao Immortal. As the prime suspect, you are not permitted to leave until the investigation isplete."


    Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s eyes sharpened, releasing the pressure of an early-stage True Dan cultivator, his tone leaving no room for argument.


    "A mere Merchant Alliance cannot restrain this Xiang! What qualifications do you have to demand an investigation of me?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s voice was domineering, his words dripping with disdain.


    The moment he spoke, the surrounding cultivators turned pale in shock.


    In the cultivation world of Jing Kingdom, the Merchant Alliance controlled half of the realm. Few dared to speak with such arrogance, not even most True Dan cultivators.


    As soon as Lan Chang''an¡¯s words fell...


    Roar!


    The overwhelming pressure of two third-rank Great Demons locked onto Huang Lang Immortal.


    From outside the valley, the bear demon growled in displeasure, its deep roar echoing across the mountains.


    Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s eyelid twitched, and the winged wolf beneath him was so terrified it directly pissed itself in fear.


    Especially the bear demon, as a mid-stage third-rank Great Demon, its aura was terrifying.


    Even if the two True Dan cultivators present joined forces, they would have no guarantee of victory.


    "Thismunication jade is one of Huxiao Immortal¡¯s belongings. If we hand it over to a third-rank formation master, they might be able to extract the messages he sent," Lan Chang''an said casually, flipping a jade slip in his hand.


    Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s face was unsightly as he stared at Lan Chang''an without turning his eyes away.


    He had indeed sent Huxiao Immortal a message instructing him to act, so he knew the truth all too well.


    For a brief moment, Lan Chang''an felt a strange sensation, as if his innermost thoughts were being probed.


    "Old Huang, harmony breeds wealth. Let¡¯s all sit down and discuss this calmly,"


    Guangjun Immortal interjected, trying to ease the tension.


    If possible, he didn¡¯t want topletely sever ties with the more powerful Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association.


    Guangjun Immortal was old, with only twenty or thirty years left to live.


    Huang Lang Immortal, on the other hand, was in his prime, with ample lifespan remaining, and his guild had several other Core Formation cultivators as well.


    ...


    Huang Lang Immortal, a shrewd merchant, quickly assessed the situation and decided to back down.


    The True Dan cultivators sat down in a side hall to discuss the matter.


    "Xiang Immortal, have you ever met the Demonic Sect¡¯s leader, Liang Shaotian? Back in the day, I shared a drink with him and discussed a business deal,"


    Huang Lang Immortal said casually.


    "I am not familiar with Liang Shaotian. However, I did cross paths with him during my time in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s response was deliberately ambiguous, carefully navigating the situation.


    The three immortals present each wore different expressions, lost in thought.


    Lan Chang''an had denied any close rtionship with Liang Shaotian but admitted to having interacted with him in the Liang Kingdom.


    Everyone knew that both Liang Shaotian and Xiang Jinglong hailed from the Liang Kingdom cultivation world.


    "Xiang Immortal, it¡¯s better to resolve enmity than to prolong it. Perhaps we could speak in private?"


    Huang Lang Immortal sent a secret message to Lan Chang''an.


    "There¡¯s no need! I have no intention of bing your guild¡¯s enemy, and Your Excellency should not use Sect Leader Liang''s name to pressure me."


    Lan Chang''an coldly rebuffed him, refusing the private meeting.


    He believed that Huang Lang Immortal had indeed dealt with Liang Shaotian in the past.


    But given Liang Shaotian¡¯s current status, if one was not at the level of ate True Dan Great Cultivator, they would not be qualified to have an equal conversation with him.


    "Xiang Immortal, would you be willing to hand over Huxiao Immortal¡¯s belongings to me?"


    Huang Lang Immortal asked, lowering his demands.


    "Fine."


    Lan Chang''an returned Huxiao Immortal¡¯s storage pouch and spiritual pet pouch to Huang Lang Immortal.


    Of course, all the valuable items had already been taken, leaving only personal belongings of little worth.


    "Thank you for your understanding, Xiang Immortal."


    Huang Lang Immortal epted the items, breathing a sigh of relief. He didn¡¯t pursue the missing valuables.


    With Huxiao Immortal¡¯s belongings in hand, he could provide some sort of exnation to the guild upon his return.


    Circumstances were beyond his control.


    Lan Chang''an now had the backing of two third-rank Great Demons and the protection of Guangjun Immortal.


    "Xiang Immortal¡¯s" background was also formidable, leaving Huang Lang Immortal with no choice but to temporarily swallow his pride.


    The next day...


    Afterpleting his ¡°investigation,¡± Huang Lang Immortal left the valley with two Foundation Establishment cultivators from the steel fortress, departing from this troublesome ce.


    "Ancestor, it¡¯s not good for our Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association if the Snow Fox Merchant Association gains the support of a True Dan Great Demon. What should we do next?"


    One of the Foundation Establishment elders from the guild asked for guidance.


    Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s eyes gleamed with shrewdness. Stroking his beard, he smiled confidently.


    "Don¡¯t worry. That Xiang Immortal isn¡¯t loyal to the Snow Fox Merchant Association. At most, he owes them a favor."


    "That¡¯s good to hear." The Foundation Establishment elder breathed a sigh of relief.


    Their ancestor had a remarkable talent for reading people, a gift that had served him well throughout his life.


    "The True Dan cultivator from the Liang Kingdom needs more time to prove himself. But if we can recruit him as an enforcer, our Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association¡¯s strength will reach new heights!"

 Chapter 233: Identity Exposed

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Seven dayster.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s new realm had stabilized.


    Not wanting to tempt fate, Lan Chang''an decided to take his leave from the two immortals of the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    Guangjun Immortal and Hanyu Immortal didn¡¯t press him to stay and personally escorted Lan Chang''an out of the steel fortress.


    ¡°Xiang Immortal, don¡¯t forget the promise you made to me.¡±


    The silver-haired, snow-robed Hanyu Immortal spoke in her cool, maic voice as she bid him farewell.


    ¡°I¡¯m a man of my word,¡± Lan Chang''an replied before boarding his flying vessel and soaring off into the sky.


    Before borrowing the cultivation site, Lan Chang''an had already promised the Snow Fox Merchant Association a favor.Throughout the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s core formation process, Lan Chang''an had relied on Hanyu Immortal¡¯s cooperation, especially in killing Huxiao Immortal and ensuring that the Snow Fox Merchant Association would share in the consequences.


    At that moment, to keep Hanyu Immortal on his side, Lan Chang''an had even given her a personal promise.


    Now, whether or not those two debts would be paid depended on the difficulty of what the Snow Fox Merchant Association requested.


    If the task was easy and didn¡¯t pose much risk, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t mind repaying the favors.


    But if they asked for something dangerous or tried to manipte him into a troublesome situation, then sorry, those were debts owed by Xiang Immortal, and had nothing to do with the low-key and diligent Old Lan.


    ¡°What kind of demon beast is that Xiang Immortal¡¯s spiritual pet? Even after its sessful core formation, it¡¯s remained hidden from sight,¡±


    Guangjun Immortal, leaning on his cane, frowned with a trace of doubt on his deeply wrinkled face.


    From beginning to end, they hadn¡¯t seen Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual pet.


    When Lan Chang''an left, he had stored the Earth Burrowing Rat inside its spirit pet pouch.


    ¡°Could it be an exceptionally rare earth-grade or even heaven-grade demon beast? Perhaps Xiang Immortal is preparing to keep it as a secret weapon to serve his backing faction,¡± Hanyu Immortal spected.


    ¡°That makes sense,¡± Guangjun Immortal nodded. ¡°You should maintain proper contact with Xiang Immortal. If I¡¯m no longer around, he might be a fallback option for the future.¡±


    ...


    Lan Chang''an flew about fifty or sixty li out from the ck Fog Mountain Range before stopping in front of a dense forest.


    Roar!


    From within the forest came the deep roar of a demon beast. The massive figure of the third-rank bear demon loomed faintly in the shadows.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from the pet pouch, its small form a blur as it dashed into the forest tomunicate with the bear demon.


    Although the Earth Burrowing Rat was quiterge after its third-rank breakthrough, it looked tiny and insignificant next to the hulking bear demon, which was the size of a small hill.


    After about a quarter of an hour, the Earth Burrowing Rat bid the bear demon farewell and returned to Lan Chang''an¡¯s pet pouch.


    The bear demon¡¯s face was filled with disappointment.


    Even though Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t understand the demon beasts¡¯nguage, he could easily see that the bear demon had been trying to recruit the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Fortunately, the Earth Burrowing Rat had remained resolute and hadn¡¯t been swayed.


    In the demon world, just like in the human cultivation world, various factions and powers existed.


    A demon that had reached the third rank could already im territory and rule as a king in the depths of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    At least the bear demon, despite failing to make a deal, had left on good terms. The Earth Burrowing Rat had managed to befriend a powerful third-rank Great Demon, which was an unexpected bonus.


    On the journey back, Lan Chang''an began to n for the future.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s sessful core formation brought him enormous benefits.


    When Lan Chang''an eventually attempted to break through to the Core Formation stage, having a True Dan-level Great Demon as a guardian would greatly enhance his chances of sess.


    As a fugitive cultivator from the Liang Kingdom, Lan Chang''an no longer had to worry about his identity being exposed.


    ¡°However, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s core quality, especially the Golden Dan Dao charm on its True Dan, must remain a secret,¡± Lan Chang''an thought.


    At least until he formed his own core, this must be kept strictly confidential; otherwise, he would be a target due to possessing such a treasure.


    While the core formation phenomenon was difficult to hide, there were ways to conceal the quality of the core itself.


    In his past life, Lan Chang''an had learned techniques to mask core quality, and these could also be applied to demon beasts.


    As long as the Earth Burrowing Rat didn¡¯t fight with its full power, its true cultivation level would be hard to discern.


    ...


    On his way back, Lan Chang''an stopped at a nearby immortal city to buy provisions for the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    However, beast pills used for third-rank demon beasts were hard toe by.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had only just advanced and didn¡¯t have an immediate need for them, but Lan Chang''an nned to purchase what it neededter through the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s channels.


    Upon returning to Autumnwind Isle, the first thing Lan Chang''an did was ce therge porcin vat containing the Xuanmu Vine back into the stone chamber at the bottom of the deep pond.


    From now on, with a third-rank Great Demon guarding the vine, its safety was no longer a concern.


    To ensure that the supply of heaven and earth spiritual energy didn¡¯t diminish, Lan Chang''an ced additional spirit stones into the spirit gathering array on Autumnwind Isle, so no anomalies would be noticed.


    Fortunately, the Earth Burrowing Rat had only just entered the third rank and didn¡¯t require a third-rank spiritual vein like a human True Dan cultivator would.


    Half a monthter.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s realm hadpletely stabilized, and Lan Chang''an had gained a basic understanding of its new abilities.


    Unlike the bloodline mutation it underwent when advancing to the second rank, there had been no significant changes to its bloodline or innate abilities upon reaching the third rank.


    The most notable improvements were its overall strength and the advancement of its innate spells.


    For instance, its earth burrowing spell had been somewhat rudimentary before, but now, it had mastered the technique, able to move through the earth with ease.


    In fact, it could even carry Lan Chang''an underground while escaping.


    After forming its True Dan, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s bloodline had awakened further, bringing forth new memories of its heritage, including knowledge of spells and innate abilities.


    ¡°Enhanced senses, powerful tracking, and exceptional close-range assassination skills¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an noted that the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s mutated bloodline had carried over into its new stage and had be even stronger.


    These abilities were beyond what a typical Earth Burrowing Rat could achieve.


    ...


    Time passed quickly, and nearly a year went by.


    The members of the Xia Family remainedpletely unaware that a terrifying third-rank Great Demon was hiding within their territory.


    Autumnwind Isle, located on the outskirts of the Xia Family¡¯snds, was a quiet and secluded ce protected by a quasi-third-rank formation. The Earth Burrowing Rat, deliberately concealing its presence, spent most of its time cultivating underground or in the cold pond.


    Unless Xia Hongyu, the family patriarch, personally investigated, it would be nearly impossible for anyone to detect its presence.


    ¡°Miss Xia, take care.¡±


    Lan Chang''an saw off Xia Shenn, who was dressed in an elegant ice-blue gown, her appearance dignified and beautiful, as she left his residence on Autumnwind Isle.


    As he watched her figure recede into the distance, his expression remained calm and indifferent.


    Over the past year, Xia Shenn had be a frequent visitor to Autumnwind Isle, often stopping by to visit him.


    Sometimes it was for alchemical needs, other times simply to chat over tea.


    When Lan Chang''an was in seclusion, Xia Shenn didn¡¯t mind and would chat with his maid, Xia Wenyue, about family matters.


    ¡°She certainly knows how to curry favor,¡± Lan Chang''an muttered to himself as he pulled out the jade slip that Xia Shenn had brought him on this visit.


    The slip contained recent intelligence on the ongoing war in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world.


    ¡°The ''Xuan Yin Pavilion,'' a sect devoted to music arts, was breached a year ago, with only a few high-ranking members managing to flee with some female disciples¡­¡±


    ¡°The Green Underworld Mysterious Realm has opened as scheduled, though the ongoing war has caused certain unexpected developments. Rumor has it that a significant Core Formation opportunity has appeared this time¡­¡±


    ¡°The Tianfeng Immortal of Jin Yun Valley was hunted down by True Dan cultivators of the Feng Kingdom and is currently missing.¡±


    The jade slip detailed important figures in the Liang Kingdom''s war.


    Among the cultivators mentioned, only Zhang Tieshan and Fairy Shi were familiar with Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    Two dayster, Lan Chang''an prepared to refine pills.


    ¡°Alchemist Wu, the president has sent you an invitation.¡±


    Dressed in a in gown, Xia Wenyue, pale and slender with delicate eyebrows, handed him a letter.


    Lan Chang''an took the invitation and nced at Xia Wenyue.


    Although he had been on Autumnwind Isle for several years, Xia Wenyue¡¯s appearance hadn¡¯t changed much. Her face remained pale and her expression frail, like a delicate flower in water.


    However, given her expertise in medicinal herbs and themon anti-aging techniques used by female cultivators, this didn¡¯t surprise Lan Chang''an.


    After reading the invitation, Lan Chang''an gave Xia Wenyue a few instructions before leaving Autumnwind Isle.


    Within the Xia Family¡¯s domain of Qingsha Bay, there were two particrly important figures.


    One was the patriarch, Xia Hongyu, the highest-ranking cultivator in the family and the only Fake Dan cultivator.


    The other was Xia Yongzhong, president of the Wufu Merchant Association, who handled the guild¡¯s external affairs and business operations.


    Xia Yongzhong was Xia Mingqu¡¯s father and wielded significant authority within the guild.


    ¡°Alchemist Wu, pleasee in,¡±


    Xia Yongzhong, a tall, lean middle-aged man with fair skin and wearing a schrly cap, personally came out of his residence to greet Lan Chang''an.


    As the nominal head of the Wufu Merchant Association, he was considered to have given Lan Chang''an enough face.


    ¡°President Xia is too kind,¡±


    Lan Chang''an knew that Xia Yongzhong had invited him here today for a serious discussion.


    Inside the residence, spirit fruits, fine wine, rare delicacies, and charming female cultivators providing entertainment created a festive atmosphere.


    During the banquet, Xia Yongzhong first exchanged pleasantries, inquiring about Lan Chang''an¡¯s well-being on Autumnwind Isle.


    Only after the dancers had left and the wine was flowing did Xia Yongzhong finally get to the point:


    ¡°Over the past few years, Alchemist Wu has been spending a lot of time with Shenn. Are you aware that she has dissolved her marriage contract with the Xin family?¡±


    ¡°Dissolved the marriage contract? I was not aware until just now.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was momentarily surprised but quickly responded.


    He had kept his distance from Xia Shenn precisely because of concerns rted to her prior engagement.


    ¡°Alchemist Wu must know that Shenn has feelings for you. If the two of you are truly fond of each other, I would be happy to facilitate your union as Daoist partners.¡±


    ¡°I have no desire to marry, and I¡¯m not worthy of Miss Shenn,¡± Lan Chang''an declined with a shake of his head.


    Although Xia Shenn had a slight fondness for him due to their past encounters, there was no genuine affection.


    This situation was very different from what had happened with the eldest Miss of the Mu Family.


    Lan Chang''an had picked up on this during their conversations.


    Moreover, Xia Shenn didn¡¯t possess the qualities that would interest Lan Chang''an.


    For him to be truly moved by a female cultivator, she would need to have either extraordinary beauty or a rare, unique charm¡ªsomeone who resonated deeply with him.


    Xia Shenn, however, didn¡¯t meet any of those criteria.


    Most importantly, Lan Chang''an had a strict rule: he never involved himself romantically with women who carried too much baggage.


    ¡°Alchemist Wu, there¡¯s no need to rush to a decision,¡±


    Xia Yongzhong smiled, his tone brimming with confidence.


    ¡°The patriarch is quite fond of Shenn and feels indebted to her for the sacrifices she¡¯s made in the past. As such, Shenn¡¯s dowry will include ate Foundation Establishment breakthrough pill.¡±


    Lan Chang''an had previously shown interest in breakthrough pills when he was traveling outside.


    President Xia hoped to use marriage and wealth to bind Lan Chang''an firmly to the Xia Family¡¯s cause.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s reliability, his status as a second-rank alchemist, and his impressivebat abilities made him an ideal match in the eyes of the Xia Family¡¯s elders.


    ¡°President Xia, the truth is¡­ I no longerck ate Foundation Establishment breakthrough pill.¡±


    Lan Chang''an hesitated for a moment before revealing this fact.


    ¡°When did you acquire such a pill?¡±


    Xia Yongzhong¡¯s eyes narrowed, surprised.


    After all, Alchemist Wu was only a low-grade second-rank alchemist and couldn¡¯t possibly refine ate Foundation Establishment breakthrough pill himself.


    ¡°During myst trip outside, I was fortunate enough to trade with a wandering merchant and obtain it.¡±


    To confirm, Lan Chang''an took out a porcin bottle.


    Xia Yongzhong¡¯s spiritual sense swept over it, recognizing the pill inside as the ¡°Xuanwu Pill,¡± ate Foundation Establishment breakthrough pill.


    ¡°Alchemist Wu is quite lucky. I wish you sess in advancing your cultivation.¡±


    Xia Yongzhong forced a smile, concealing his disappointment.


    In the past, when Alchemist Wu needed a breakthrough pill, the Xia Family hadn¡¯t provided one. And now that they were prepared to lure him with heavy benefits, the other party was no longercking.


    ...


    After this conversation, Xia Shenn no longer visited Lan Chang''an.


    Six monthster, Lan Chang''an openly revealed that he had reached thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    Foundation Establishment cultivators at this level were rare within the Wufu Merchant Association and held esteemed positions.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s status within the Xia Family soared, nearly on par with their honored guests.


    One day, Lan Chang''an boarded a flying vessel and left Qingsha Bay to purchase third-rank beast pills for the Earth Burrowing Rat to aid in its cultivation.


    In addition, he nned to buy materials for second-rank Life Extension Pills and Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Lan Chang''an already had some of the main ingredients for the Foundation Establishment Pills, including two special second-rank monster cores he had acquired as spoils of war during his time in the ancient ruins.


    Once he sessfully refined the Foundation Establishment Pills, he would be considered a skilled second-rank alchemist.


    As his flying boat soared over a mountain range, Lan Chang''an suddenly felt a faint sense of foreboding.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯ve hidden your true identity well.¡±


    A voice rang out from the mountains below, and ate Foundation Establishment cultivator in purple armor flew towards him, a wry smile on his face.


    ¡°What nonsense are you spouting, Fellow Daoist Fang? After your humiliating defeat, you¡¯ve clearly lost your mind.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s brows furrowed, and his words were filled with mockery.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, or should I say, Turtle Talisman Master. There¡¯s no need to keep pretending. The Xinyue Merchant Association has already uncovered your true identity.¡±


    Fang Zhong¡¯s expression was smug, as if he was inplete control.


    ¡°Tsk tsk, I heard the stories of yourte-blooming rise to fame back in the Liang Kingdom, Fellow Daoist Lan. In fact, I admired you from afar. By age alone, I should be calling you ¡®Big Brother Lan.¡¯¡±

 Chapter 234: Lifespan Exceeds 500 Years

    Chapter 234: Lifespan Exceeds 500 Years


    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    When Fang Zhong exposed his identity, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t angry¡ªhe had expected this day toe.


    After all, Lan Chang''an had arrived in the Jing Kingdom through connections with the Xinyue Merchant Association, specifically by leveraging his rtionship with Li Congren, the grandson of Li Erqing.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an had kept a low profile within the Wufu Merchant Association, performing modestly, which didn¡¯t warrant much attention from the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    But after defeating Fang Zhong two years ago and rescuing Xia Shenn, and more recently ¡°breaking through¡± to thete Foundation Establishment stage, Lan Chang''an inevitably attracted the scrutiny of the Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s higher-ups.


    Moreover, Fang Zhong had surely exaggerated Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength after his earlier humiliation.


    If Lan Chang''an had revealed his true strength back then and killed Fang Zhong, his identity would have been exposed much sooner¡ªperhaps even before the Earth Burrowing Rat formed its core.


    ¡°Did youe here just to reveal my true identity?¡± Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t bother maintaining his fa?ade anymore, speaking in a cold tone.


    ¡°I¡¯m not a wanted man,¡± he continued. ¡°In the Liang Kingdom, I¡¯m aw-abiding, reputable loose cultivator. So even if my identity is leaked, it means nothing to me.¡±In other words, there was no leverage to be gained from exposing Lan Chang''an.


    Fang Zhong was momentarily taken aback before awkwardlyughing. ¡°Big Brother Lan, you misunderstand. I¡¯m not here to threaten you. After all, we¡¯re both from the same homnd.¡±


    Fang Zhong¡¯s situation differed from Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    While Fang Zhong was a deserter from the Liang Kingdom and a wanted man, hiding in the Jing Kingdom to evade capture, Lan Chang''an¡¯s identity as a well-known, reputable cultivator could stand up to scrutiny, with no hidden dangers lurking behind him.


    ¡°Big Brother Lan, I¡¯m here on behalf of the Xinyue Merchant Association to invite you to join us. If you agree, the guild is willing to offer you three times the benefits you¡¯re currently receiving from the Xia Family!¡±


    ¡°You needn¡¯t worry about the second-rank spirit contract either, an immortal will step in and help you crack it.¡±


    ¡°Big Brother Lan, you¡¯ve always been one to avoid unnecessary risks. You should be aware of the vast difference between the two guilds. When the nest falls, no egg remains unbroken¡­¡±


    Fang Zhong¡¯s argument was logical and persuasive.


    ¡°Sorry to disappoint you, but I¡¯ve already grown ustomed to life in Qingsha Bay. I have no desire to upend my life again,¡± Lan Chang''an said after a brief pause, shaking his head.


    He had settled down at Qingsha Bay¡¯s Autumnwind Isle, where both of his spiritual pets had found suitable habitats.


    The Xuanmu Vine was firmly rooted, and connected to the earth¡¯s energy at the bottom of the deep pond, creating a secretive cultivation environment.


    Moreover, the Xia Family had treated him fairly, and the key decision-makers within the family weren¡¯t bad people.


    With such a stable environment and favorable conditions, there was no reason to gamble on an uncertain future elsewhere.


    ¡°Well then, I wish you sess on your path,¡± Fang Zhong shrugged and, without pressing further, swiftly departed.


    Fang Zhong hade alone for this negotiation, with no ambush waiting nearby.


    That was why Lan Chang''an was willing to chat with him and didn¡¯t feel the need to eliminate him.


    Now that Fang Zhong and the Xinyue Merchant Association knew Lan Chang''an¡¯s true identity, they likely understood that sending one or twote Foundation Establishment cultivators wouldn¡¯t be enough to deal with him.


    Lan Chang''an himself was at thete Foundation Establishment stage and had a spiritual pet ofparable strength.


    More importantly, he was also a skilled talisman master, possibly even at the quasi-third-rank level.


    Even if the Xinyue Merchant Association sent a Fake Dan cultivator, there was no guarantee they could resolve the situation quickly, and there was always the risk that Lan Chang''an might escape.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    An elderly man, thin and frail, dressed in a straw cloak, flew into the misty, water-covered immortal city.


    Lan Chang''an was quite familiar with Cloudsmoke Immortal City by now.


    As usual, he checked into the Xunxian Residence, but this time, he didn¡¯t need a guide.


    Using his spiritual sense, Lan Chang''an swept the inn but found no trace of Wang Feng.


    Wang Feng, the young master from the Liang Kingdom who had been gravely injured and suffered damage to his dantian and meridians, had once stayed here.


    During their first parting, Lan Chang''an had even given him a medicinal recipe for healing.


    Now, with no sign of Wang Feng, his fate remained uncertain.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t dwell on it¡ªit had merely been a small gesture of goodwill.


    The next day.


    Lan Chang''an visited the Snow Fox Merchant Association in the city and paid a visit to Hanyu Immortal.


    This time, the cold and beautiful Hanyu Immortal greeted him with a restrained yet delighted warmth in her demeanor.


    ¡°The third-rank beast pills and Foundation Establishment Pill ingredients you requested may take about half a month to gather. Why don¡¯t you stay at my estate and let me host you for a while?¡± Hanyu Immortal suggested.


    ¡°Would that be appropriate?¡± Lan Chang''an hesitated.


    ¡°Xiang Immortal, do you think I¡ªa mere Fake Dan cultivator¡ªam dangerous? Why act so distant? Or do you not wish to repay the promise you made to me?¡±


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s rosy lips curved into a yful smile, her tone a mix of teasing and mock reproach. Her cool and refined demeanor gave her an irresistible charm.


    ¡°If staying at your estate for half a month counts as repaying one of my debts, then I see no reason not to,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a smile.


    ¡°Xiang Immortal thinks beautifully, since when is there a rule that simply eating and staying for free counts as repaying a debt?¡± Hanyu Immortal chuckled, herughter like the sound of silver bells.


    That evening, Hanyu Immortal personally hosted a banquet for Lan Chang''an.


    The two shared several jars of spirit wine, and although both were Fake Dan cultivators, the wine was enough to make them slightly tipsy.


    As they drank and conversed, the distance between them gradually lessened. Their topics ranged from the situation in the cultivation world to internal rivalries within the merchant guilds, and even their personal experiences.


    Hanyu Immortal, it seemed, didn¡¯t handle her liquor well. Her delicate, snow-likeplexion became tinged with a faint blush, like the morning sun rising over a snowyndscape.


    ¡°Xiang Immortal can be considered a dragon among men in this generation. Haven¡¯t you ever thought about finding a Daopanion?¡±


    Her clear, icy eyes shimmered as she looked at Lan Chang''an in genuine curiosity.


    ¡°No. I¡¯m just a crude man¡ªwhat female cultivator would look twice at me?¡± Lan Chang''an said, taking a swig of wine. He could easily read between the lines of her words and yed along.


    ¡°You¡¯re too modest. With your current status,parable to a True Dan cultivator, what female Fake Dan cultivator wouldn¡¯t be interested in you?¡±


    Hanyu Immortal, dressed in her silver robe, leaned in closer and refilled Lan Chang''an¡¯s cup with a graceful hand.


    As she drew nearer, he caught a faint scent like that of snow lotus, and when his leg shifted, it brushed against the smooth, exquisite fabric of her skirt.


    ¡°To receive such praise from Hanyu Immortal¡­ it truly puts me in a good mood,¡± Lan Chang''anughed.


    They drank two more jars of spirit wine, and the distance between them grew even smaller, so much so that they could feel each other¡¯s breath.


    Before he knew it, the once aloof and dignified Hanyu Immortal was half-leaning, half-sitting in his arms, her silver hair disheveled, her snow-white robe slipping to reveal long, slender legs as smooth as jade.


    ¡°No, we can¡¯t, Xiang Immortal¡­¡±


    With a gasp, Hanyu Immortal parted her full, ruby lips from Lan Chang''an¡¯s, her hands grabbing his gnarled fingers and pushing them away from her nearly half-opened robe.


    ¡°Heh, Hanyu Immortal, why not? Weren¡¯t you the one who seduced me first¡­¡±


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an was fully ying the role of ¡°Xiang Immortal.¡± The guise of a proper gentleman didn¡¯t suit this persona, and being bold and direct was more in line with the rough and uninhibited image of Xiang Immortal.


    ...


    Ten dayster.


    In the elegant chamber filled with the scent of sandalwood, the fine bedframe made from second-rank spiritual wood creaked loudly, almost as if it was about to copse.


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s pale arms supported herself on the edge of the bed, her smooth, delicate back facing the straw-cloaked elder who held her by the waist.


    Their clothingy strewn about the room in a chaotic mess, trampled underfoot.


    Suddenly, amunication talisman flew into the room. The two of them nced at it, but without breaking stride, they continued their¡­ interaction.


    Half an hourter.


    Hanyu Immortal, now d in a pristine, snow-white pce gown, calmly retrieved themunication talisman.


    ¡°Big Brother Xiang, the third-rank beast pills and Foundation Establishment Pill ingredients you requested have all been gathered,¡± she said in a measured tone.


    ¡°Your merchant guild is efficient,¡± Lan Chang''an remarked.


    ¡°When you rise to even greater heights in the future, don¡¯t forget the kindness of me and the Snow Fox Merchant Association.¡± Hanyu Immortal smiled.


    ¡°I won¡¯t forget. After all, I made a heart demon oath the other day, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    Lan Chang''an spoke boldly.


    As the head of the Snow Fox Merchant Association, Hanyu Immortal was no easy conquest. Initially, she had maintained a delicate distance, carefully guarding her virtue.


    But once they became intimate, she had asked Lan Chang''an to make a heart demon oath, using his ¡°Xiang Immortal¡± identity, that he would never betray the merchant guild or her personally.


    Lan Chang''an had found it amusing but went along with it, making the oath under the name ¡°Xiang Immortal.¡±


    After their intimate moments, Hanyu Immortal had be fully convinced of Lan Chang''an¡¯s identity as ¡°Xiang Immortal.¡±


    After all, his body was so strong that he had already broken several beds, and her own body, that far exceeded the strength and flexibility of a Foundation Establishment female cultivator, had barely withstood the ¡°onught.¡±


    And so, in this rather humorous fashion, Lan Chang''an had enjoyed ten days of free food, free lodging, and more.


    ...


    In a side hall.


    Lan Chang''an and Hanyu Immortal sat at the head of the room.


    Gao Songcheng, an Elder of the Snow Fox Merchant Association handed over a storage pouch.


    Lan Chang''an epted the pouch, quickly inspecting its contents before nodding in satisfaction.


    Inside were two bottles of third-rank beast pills. With one pill per month, the Earth Burrowing Rat would be well-provisioned for several years.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, cultivating underground at Autumnwind Isle, had limited ess to spiritual energy, so it couldn¡¯t afford to go without these pills.


    Additionally, the storage pouch contained two sets of auxiliary materials for the Foundation Establishment Pills.


    With the critical main ingredient already in his possession, Lan Chang''an had tasked the Snow Fox Merchant Association with sourcing the rest, which hadn¡¯t been difficult for such arge organization.


    ¡°Here are the spirit stones.¡±


    Lan Chang''an handed over a heavy pouch of spirit stones to Hanyu Immortal.


    ¡°Thank you, Xiang Immortal, for doing business with our merchant guild.¡±


    Hanyu Immortal smiled as she counted the stones.


    ¡°I have other matters to attend to. I¡¯ll visit again next time,¡± Lan Chang''an said, rising to leave.


    ¡°Take care, Xiang Immortal.¡±


    Hanyu Immortal escorted him to the guild¡¯s entrance.


    As she watched him walk away, recalling their recent encounters, her expression remained calm, though she suppressed a hint of physical difort.


    ...


    After leaving the Snow Fox Merchant Association, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t leave Cloudsmoke Immortal City right away.


    He had heard of a small auction taking ce in the city, where amon second-rank Life Extension Pill would be avable.


    After waiting for several days, Lan Chang''an, disguised as a white-haired old man at thete Foundation Establishment stage, participated in the auction.


    Sessfully purchasing a second-rank Life Extension Pill, Lan Chang''an returned to Qingsha Bay without incident.


    Upon his return to Autumnwind Isle, he gave the third-rank beast pills to the Earth Burrowing Rat, which happily retreated to its underground dwelling.


    Inside his cultivation chamber.


    Lan Chang''an consumed his sixth ordinary second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    This time, the effects weren¡¯t nearly as potent as thest time he had taken a superior pill.


    It only extended his lifespan by five years.


    That was within his expectations, as the effects of such pills diminish with each use.


    ¡°Finally, I¡¯ve surpassed 500 years!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s current lifespan had reached 502 years, putting him firmly within the lifespan range of a True Dan cultivator.


    After taking the Life Extension Pill, Lan Chang''an¡¯s thoughts turned to the fact that the Xinyue Merchant Association had uncovered his true identity.


    ¡°The Wufu Merchant Association will learn of this eventually as well,¡± Lan Chang''an contemted whether he should reveal his identity to the Xia Family ahead of time.


    In the end, he decided to let things take their course.


    Regardless of whether it was Lan Chang''an or Wu the alchemist, his needs remained the same.


    He required a stable spiritual vein to cultivate until he reached the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage, which could take decades.


    ...


    Another half-year passed.


    Lan Chang''an was now 148 years old.


    It had been eight years since he had broken through to thete Foundation Establishment stage on Little Turtle Peak.


    Lan Chang''an felt that he had made significant progress, now more than halfway through the seventh level of the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Three dayster, after giving his two apprentices some time off, Lan Chang''an bathed, burned incense, and prepared to enter seclusion for alchemy.


    This time, he would attempt to refine Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Seven dayster.


    After consuming one set of ingredients, Lan Chang''an sessfullypleted the process.


    ¡°One failed pill¡­ two inferior-grade pills...¡±


    Lan Chang''an stared at the three pills in his hand¡ªone was charred and cracked like a piece of ck coal, while the other two were full and lustrous, though they bore only three and a half Dao lines.


    Despite being inferior-grade Foundation Establishment Pills, they were still highly sought after by low-level cultivators.


    For loose cultivators, even an inferior-grade pill was a dreame true.


    Lan Chang''an stored away the two inferior pills, saving the remaining set of ingredients for when he felt more confident in his alchemy skills.


    In his study at Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an reflected on the recent alchemy session, identifying areas for improvement.


    ...


    A few dayster, the Young Master Xia Mingqu paid Lan Chang''an a visit.


    ¡°Come in, young master,¡± When Lan Chang''an saw the dignified Xia Mingqu, he noticed a trace of unease on his face.


    His maidservant, Xia Wenyue, was also present, serving tea and water.


    As the two drank tea and conversed, their discussion ranged far and wide.


    Xia Mingqu sighed, ¡°The neighboring countries¡¯ cultivation wars have reached a stalemate. Aside from the chaos at the borders, there are many deserters and loose cultivators fleeing into the Jing Kingdom, destabilizing the trade routes.¡±


    ¡°To ensure the safety of our guild¡¯s cultivators, we¡¯ve purchased many high-quality talismans, but they¡¯re still in short supply.¡±


    ¡°High-quality talismans are always in demand,¡± Lan Chang''an replied calmly.


    Xia Mingqu¡¯s smile was as warm as spring as he looked at Lan Chang''an and asked,


    ¡°Alchemist Wu, do you happen to know any skilled talisman masters? The Wufu Merchant Association is willing to employ them at a heavy price and treat them as honored guests.¡±

 Chapter 235: Cold Soul Jade Marrow

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an realized that his true identity had already been discovered by the Wufu Merchant Association.


    Since the Wufu and Xinyue guilds were rivals, it was inevitable that they had informants within each other¡¯s ranks.


    The Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s investigation of Lan Chang''an¡¯s true identity wasn¡¯t considered top-secret information, which meant that it had likely already spread.


    ¡°Are you referring to a skilled talisman master from the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, named Lan Chang''an?¡± Lan Chang''an asked calmly.


    ¡°Exactly! That¡¯s the very talisman master we¡¯ve been seeking,¡± Xia Mingqu said, his eyes lighting up, clearly pleased.


    ¡°Please wait a moment, Young Master Xia. I¡¯ll have my friende out to meet you.¡±


    With that, Lan Chang''an stood up and walked out of the reception hall.


    About ten breathster, a tall, serene young man dressed in white entered the hall with aposed demeanor.Xia Mingqu was slightly startled, but then smiled warmly and stood up to greet him.


    ¡°It¡¯s an honor, Talisman Master Lan. I am Xia Mingqu.¡±


    ¡°You tter me, Young Master Xia. I¡¯m but a humble talisman master with a small reputation in the Liang Kingdom. Few would recognize me in the Jing Kingdom,¡± Lan Chang''an replied courteously.


    ¡°This......¡±


    Not far away, Xia Wenyue, the thin young woman who had been standing nearby, was taken aback. For a moment, she stood frozen, unsure of how to react.


    She couldn¡¯t quite reconcile the calm and refined young man before her with the memory of the slightly oily, round-faced middle-aged man she had known.


    ¡°Aunt Wenyue, I¡¯ll take Talisman Master Lan to meet the n leader now,¡± Xia Mingqu said.


    ¡°Yes¡­ Of course,¡± Xia Wenyue replied, lowering her head. Her pale face turned slightly pink as she nodded.


    Lan Chang''an and Xia Mingqu then left the hall together, walking side by side.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, I¡¯ve heard that you have a spiritual pet, a Profound Water Turtle of earth-grade bloodline. Is that true?¡± Xia Mingqu asked with a curious smile.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s nickname, ¡°Turtle Talisman Master,¡± had spread widely in the Liang Kingdom, partly because he owned a Profound Water Turtle, known for its exceptionally slow growth.


    ¡°Indeed, let me summon it for some fresh air,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a smile, waving his sleeve toward the nearby deep pond.


    Ssh!


    About ten breathster, a massive dark-green turtle leaped out of the water, sending ripples of blue waves in every direction.


    With a slight smile, Lan Chang''an gracefullynded on the turtle¡¯s back, standing with his hands behind his back as it moved through the waves.


    ¡°Such elegance, Talisman Master Lan. You are like a celestial being,¡± Xia Mingqu said, his eyes filled with admiration. He then flew alongside Lan Chang''an, guiding him toward the heart of the Xia Family¡¯s territory in Qingsha Bay.


    Along the way, the Xia Family¡¯s female cultivators couldn¡¯t help but cast nces at the white-robed man riding on therge turtle, taking note of his extraordinary demeanor.


    ¡°Brother Mingqu, who is that?¡± a dignified and graceful female cultivator in blue robes called out as she flew toward them, her eyes gleaming as she saw the white-clothed man with an extraordinary demeanor on therge turtle from afar.


    ¡°Shenn, you two actually know each other¡­¡± Xia Mingqu said, a bit awkwardly. At this point, only a few of the Xia Family¡¯s top members knew about Lan Chang''an¡¯s true identity.


    He discreetly used a voice transmission to exin the situation to Xia Shenn.


    ¡°Greetings, Miss Shenn,¡± Lan Chang''an nodded, offering her a brief greeting.


    He remembered the day when he had saved her; even then, her eyes hadn¡¯t shone with the same vibrant light they did now.


    ¡°Wu Fan¡­ Lan Chang''an¡­¡± Xia Shenn stood stunned, her eyes wide as she watched the handsome white-robed figure riding away on the massive turtle.


    ...


    The heart of Qingsha Bay, within the Xia Family¡¯s domain.


    Water cascaded down in a curtain, falling from the cliffs into the pool below.


    This ce had the densest concentration of spiritual energy in the Xia Family¡¯s territory, reaching the level of a quasi-third-rank spiritual vein.


    ¡°Could the Wufu Merchant Association have employed an expert formation master to enhance and cultivate their spiritual veins?¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    When he had firste to this location five years ago, the spiritual energy here had been slightly weaker than it was now.


    Of course, such a small difference didn¡¯t matter much to a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Most Fake Dan cultivators didn¡¯t pursue further advancement, they were content to maintain their existing level of cultivation. As a result, many of them turned their attention to managing family affairs or indulging in worldly pleasures.


    Only a few Fake Dan cultivators continued to seek the elusive opportunities to advance further on the path of immortality.


    ¡°Please, Talisman Master Lan, the n leader is waiting inside,¡± Xia Mingqu said, stopping outside the waterfall. He didn¡¯t follow Lan Chang''an inside.


    Within the stone pce hidden behind the waterfall, Lan Chang''an once again met with the Xia Family¡¯s n leader, Xia Hongyu.


    ¡°Heh, I must admit, Talisman Master Lan, your disguise was so good that Ipletely overlooked the truth,¡± Xia Hongyu said with a chuckle.


    Xia Hongyu, known for his focus on health and longevity, was over two hundred years old. Yet, despite his advanced age, he had a youthful, handsome face and smooth, fair skin. Only his hair showed hints of white at the temples.


    From a distance, he might appear youthful, but a closer look would reveal the weight of years in his demeanor.


    ¡°I was fortunate. I merely used a special disguise tool, nothing more,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with humility as he took his seat.


    This time, Xia Hongyu treated Lan Chang''an on a more equal footing, personally pouring tea for him.


    Lan Chang''an understood why. As a skilledte Foundation Establishment cultivator, possibly even a quasi-third-rank talisman master, he had earned the right to be treated as an equal.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, here is the second-rank spirit contract you signed with us,¡± Xia Hongyu said, producing a contract scroll and disying it to Lan Chang''an.


    With a flicker of fire, the spirit contract was reduced to ash.


    Lan Chang''an was slightly moved by this gesture¡ªit was a clear show of sincerity.


    The contract had been signed under somewhat forced circumstances back then, and by destroying it, the Xia Family was relinquishing their greatest hold over him.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, you¡¯ve stayed in Qingsha Bay for many years without leaving. Would you consider bing an official guest elder of the Xia Family? You needn¡¯t worry about the terms¡ªwe¡¯ll offer the same treatment as our most senior alchemists. You can set your own conditions,¡± Xia Hongyu said in a gentle tone, his gaze filled with goodwill.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s discuss the specific responsibilities of being a guest elder. My main purpose foring here was to seek refuge and cultivate¡­¡± Lan Chang''an said directly.


    He was willing to ept a modestpensation package in exchange for minimal obligations, as he wanted to avoid being overly burdened by the guild¡¯s demands for talismans and pills.


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an and Xia Hongyu had reached an agreement.


    Going forward, Lan Chang''an would be officially recognized as a guest elder of the Xia Family. His main responsibility would be to craft high-quality talismans and asionally provide guidance to students.


    As for his previous role as an alchemist, Lan Chang''an would still make pills when he felt inclined, though it was no longer a primary duty.


    The Wufu Merchant Association had recently trained a young and capable second-rank alchemist, so they weren¡¯t as reliant on Lan Chang''an¡¯s services anymore.


    In return, the Xia Family promised to provide Lan Chang''an with a high-grade spiritual vein for his cultivation, along with a steady supply of second-rank spiritual grains, beast feed, and a substantially increased stipend of spirit stones.


    ¡°If you¡¯ve grown ustomed to living on Autumnwind Isle, I can arrange for one of our formation masters to adjust the spiritual vein there. By investing some spirit stones, we can upgrade your cultivation site to a second-rank high-grade environment,¡± Xia Hongyu suggested.


    ¡°Then I''ll trouble the patriarch,¡± Lan Chang''an did not reject the good intention.


    While spiritual veins could be cultivated and improved over time, the process was slow. To quickly upgrade Autumnwind Isle¡¯s spiritual vein to high grade, the Xia Family would likely have to divert spiritual energy from one or two other sites.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an had used a spirit gathering array and invested spirit stones to simte the environment of a high-grade spiritual vein. Now, he could save that expense.


    With the enhanced spiritual energy from the upgraded vein,bined with the spirit gathering array, he could further boost the local environment to nearly half a grade higher.


    This would be particrly beneficial for the underground area connected to the earth¡¯s energy, where the Profound Water Turtle and Earth Burrowing Rat often stayed. The spiritual energy there was already more active due to the earth¡¯s natural flow.


    Even with this improvement, however, the spiritual energy on Autumnwind Isle wouldn¡¯t be enough for a True Dan-level demon beast to cultivate freely.


    Fortunately, the Earth Burrowing Rat was adept at tunneling and could burrow through the ground to tap into nearby spirit veins for additional spiritual energy. It could even make its way beneath the Xia Family¡¯s main estate to absorb the denser quasi-third-rank spiritual energy there.


    With its five to six-hundred-year lifespan and newly advanced True Dan-level cultivation, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t in a rush for the Earth Burrowing Rat to progress quickly.


    It was not umon for True Dan cultivators or Third Rank Great Demons at this level to be stuck in a small realm for hundreds of years.


    ...


    Xia Hongyu personally escorted Lan Chang''an out of the waterfall cave.


    Standing outside, Xia Mingqu¡¯s expression flickered with surprise.


    He hadn¡¯t expected the n leader to show Lan Chang''an this much respect.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an¡¯s disguise back then was able to fool my ¡®Void-Prating True Eye¡¯ secret technique. This man is far more extraordinary than the intelligence we gathered from the Liang Kingdom would suggest¡­¡± Xia Hongyu said in a calm tone as he returned to the cave, answering Xia Mingqu¡¯s unspoken question.


    Lan Chang''an, meanwhile, rode his massive turtle back to Autumnwind Isle, now in his true identity.


    No longer needing to live under the constant burden of a false identity, Lan Chang''an felt much lighter, his mood brightening.


    ¡°Greetings, Senior Lan,¡± the apprentices Xia Mingcheng and Xia Wenyue greeted him, their respect for him even greater than before.


    Clearly, they had learned of his true identity from other sources.


    ¡°You may rise,¡± Lan Chang''an said, ncing briefly at Xia Wenyue.


    Her pale face and delicate features remained as fragile-looking as ever, and she seemed even more fragile than before.


    Recalling his earlier conversation with Xia Hongyu, Lan Chang''an remembered that the n leader had mentioned Xia Wenyue.


    Xia Hongyu had learned from the family¡¯s intelligence reports that Lan Chang''an not only knew how to take care of his health, but also had dabbled in the art of medicine, particrly in nurturing long-standing ailments and hidden injuries.


    ¡°If you have time, Talisman Master Lan, I¡¯d like you to take a look at Wenyue¡¯s condition,¡± Xia Hongyu had said, though he didn¡¯t seem particrly hopeful.


    Now, seeing Xia Wenyue again, Lan Chang''an¡¯s interest was piqued.


    However, he also recalled how she had once rejected his offer to help with her condition, which dampened his enthusiasm.


    ...


    Two and a half years passed in the blink of an eye.


    Unknowingly, Lan Chang''an had been in the Jing Kingdom for seven or eight years.


    He had now reached the significant milestone of 150 years of age.


    For most Foundation Establishment cultivators, reaching 150 meant that their chances of ever forming a Core were slim.


    From this point on, their physical condition would start to deteriorate, and the likelihood of sessfully forming a Core would decrease sharply.


    Of course, there were no absolutes in the cultivation world¡ªnothing was impossible.


    Some cultivators who focused on longevity techniques could maintain their physical health, extending their vitality. With the help of superior Life Extension Pills, it wasn¡¯t unheard of for some to sessfully form a Core eventer in life.


    In rare cases, cultivators who were fortunate enough to find legendary spiritual items that could directly extend their lifespan by sixty years, or even grant them a second youth, had been recorded in ancient texts.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, Xia Wenyue has copsed again,¡± a voice interrupted Lan Chang''an¡¯s thoughts.


    He had been inspecting the herbs in his medicinal garden when his apprentice, Xia Mingcheng, came rushing over to report.


    ¡°Copsed again? Did you give her the usual medicine?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    By now, he was used to Xia Wenyue fainting. Since he had arrived on Autumnwind Isle, it had happened once or twice each year.


    She had always been frail, her body burdened by a cold constitution that barely allowed her to cultivate.


    Lan Chang''an had thought that as she progressed in her cultivation, her condition might improve.


    However, despite reaching thete Qi-Refining stage, her condition had not improved. In fact, the cold energy within her seemed to have grown stronger.


    ¡°I gave her the medicine, but this time it seems different. She hasn¡¯t woken up in half a day,¡± Xia Mingcheng exined.


    ¡°Where did she copse?¡± Lan Chang''an asked, his expression bing more serious.


    ¡°She¡¯s in the medicine room,¡± Xia Mingcheng replied.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment.


    Over the past few years, the Wufu Merchant Association had experienced internal strife, vying for power against the Xin Family.


    Externally, their business ventures had been pressured by the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    Rtions between the Xia and Xin families had deteriorated sharply after Xia Shenn¡¯s return.


    Later, the Xia Family had found evidence that the Xin Family was receiving support from the Xinyue Merchant Association, leading to a series of open and covert conflicts.


    The Xin Family admitted to receiving assistance from the Xinyue Merchant Association, but imed that it was part of normal trade dealings and that they had not betrayed or sold out the guild¡¯s interests.


    With both internal and external tensions, and the war in neighboring countries affecting trade routes, the guild had faced shortages of medical supplies.


    Xia Wenyue, who had chosen the path of a healer, was considered the most skilled among the younger generation when it came to medicine. She had been working tirelessly to produce healing potions for the family, it was inevitable that there would be some strain.


    ...


    Not long after, Lan Chang''an followed Xia Mingcheng to the medicine room near the alchemy chamber.


    Inside, he found a young woman in a light blue veil dress, her brows as delicate as ink, lying unconscious on the floor.


    Her face, normally pale, now looked deathly white. Her lips had turned a faint shade of blue, and her body was trembling slightly.


    Lan Chang''an extended his hand, cing it on her smooth forehead, feeling the chill of frost-like coldness.


    His brow furrowed as he took her thin wrist in his hand, noticing the translucent blue veins visible beneath her crystalline skin.


    ¡°Cold energy has invaded her meridians and internal organs¡ªthis is a long-standing condition that has worsened over time,¡± Lan Chang''an concluded after a brief examination.


    Given the severity of her symptoms, Lan Chang''an was surprised that she had been able to maintain her cultivation, study medicine, and manage the ind¡¯s affairs for so long.


    Had it been any other cultivator, they would have long since be bedridden, their meridians blocked by the cold energy.


    With a deep breath, Lan Chang''an channeled his Evergreen technique, circting his gentle spiritual energy to dissipate the cold energy that had umted within Xia Wenyue¡¯s body.


    During the process, he noticed something unusual in her navel area¡ªa deeply rooted hidden injury.


    ¡°Could this be an illness she¡¯s had since birth?¡± Lan Chang''an wondered.


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an had managed to disperse the visible cold energy within her body.


    At that moment, Xia Wenyue began to cough lightly in her unconscious state, beads of sweat forming on her forehead. Her body temperature started to rise.


    ¡°Hm?¡±


    Just as Lan Chang''an was about to withdraw his hand, he sensed that new cold energy was beginning to form inside her body again.


    Where is this cold energying from?


    Puzzled, Lan Chang''an ced two fingers on her slender wrist once more, this time noticing a faint chill emanating from her bones.


    ¡°Has her skeleton been affected by years of cold energy buildup?¡±


    Lan Chang''an checked her bones more carefully and found yet another surprise.


    Her bones were slender and jade-like, almost crystalline in their transparency. Though they radiated a coolness, there was no sign of damage from the cold.


    In fact, this coolness seemed to calm the mind and clear the senses, distinct from the harmful cold energy that had umted in her body.


    Finding no further problems with her bones, Lan Chang''an then focused his attention on her upper body, extending his spiritual sense toward her head.


    ¡°There¡¯s cold energy within her soul?¡± Lan Chang''an was startled.


    Had it not been for his exceptionally strong spiritual sense and meticulous inspection, he might have missed this discovery.


    A faint chill was seeping from within Xia Wenyue¡¯s soul, capable of freezing spiritual energy.


    ¡°Cold Soul¡­ Jade Bones¡­ Could this be some sort of innate Dao physique?¡±


    Lan Chang''an wracked his brain, trying to recall his knowledge from his previous life.


    Finally, a memory surfaced of an ancient text that described something called the ¡°Cold Soul Jade Marrow,¡± which matched several of Xia Wenyue¡¯s symptoms.


    An innate Dao physique, also known as an innate treasure body, was a type of rare constitution independent of a cultivator¡¯s spiritual roots.


    Lan Chang''an had encountered very few of these in his past life, and in this life, he had only ever heard of a cultivator named Tuoba Jin, a genius from the Liang Kingdom, who possessed an innate treasure body andter on, had barely managed to form a Golden Dan.


    ¡°Little Ming, you go and get busy first. Wenyue¡¯s condition is quite serious¡ªI¡¯ll need to use spiritual energy to nourish her for some time,¡± Lan Chang''an said, dismissing his apprentice.


    ording to the ancient text from his previous life, the ''Cold Soul Jade Marrow,'' a type of innate Dao physique, could only survive and be developed if it was possessed by a female cultivator.


    Before they had cultivated to a certain level, they had to keep their physique a closely guarded secret. Otherwise, they risked attracting deadly attention.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 236: A Certain Something

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Unfortunately, ¡°Cold Soul Jade Marrow¡± was a rare innate Dao physique, and the ancient text Lan Chang''an hade across in his previous life didn¡¯t provide detailed information about its specific abilities.


    Lan Chang''an had heard of variousmon innate Dao physiques, such as the Fire Spirit Treasure Body, the Wood Essence Dao Body, and the Netherworld Body. These mainstream physiques not only granted faster cultivation but also bestowed their owners with extraordinary innate abilities.


    From what the ancient text mentioned, Lan Chang''an spected that the ¡°Cold Soul Jade Marrow¡± was not only a cold-attribute Dao physique but also possessed a peculiar ¡°beneficial effect¡± for others.


    This was likely why those with such a physique had to hide it at all costs to avoid bringing disaster upon themselves.


    ¡°Cold Soul Jade Marrow¡­ Jade Marrow¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an murmured to himself, thinking about Xia Wenyue¡¯s bones, which had a crystalline, jade-like quality and exuded a coolness.


    Although she was only at the Qi-Refining stage, the quality of her jade-like bones had already surpassed that of normal humans, allowing them to resist years of umted cold energy.


    If Xia Wenyue truly possessed an innate Dao physique, when she reached the Foundation Establishment Realm, the jade marrow within her might undergo a qualitative transformation, potentially achieving effectsparable to rare spiritual treasures.¡°It seems I¡¯ll need to look into more ancient texts about innate Dao physiques in the future,¡± Lan Chang''an thought. Having cultivated for three lifetimes, this was the first time he had discovered an innate Dao physique so close to him, and it piqued his curiosity.


    Once again, he channeled his Evergreen spiritual energy, dispersing the cold energy within Xia Wenyue and simultaneously nourishing the hidden ailment in her navel.


    ¡°S-Senior Lan¡­¡±


    Before long, Xia Wenyue awoke with a soft murmur.


    She felt her blood flowing smoothly, her body filled with aforting warmth and a vibrant energy, like the fresh breath of spring.


    Looking up at the white-robed man before her, whose demeanor was as gentle as jade, her pale face flushed with a tinge of rosy warmth.


    ¡°I¡¯ve dispelled the umted cold energy in your body. It shouldn¡¯t rpse for a while. You need to focus on recuperating and avoid overworking yourself.¡±


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his hand from her wrist and calmly advised her.


    ¡°Thank you for saving me, Senior Lan.¡±


    Xia Wenyue rose and offered a respectful bow, her eyes filled with a hint of shyness as she lowered her head, her face still tinged with the warm flush.


    However, the lingering warmth and vitality in her body left her feeling conflicted.


    During her brief unconscious state, the treatment she had received, though indistinct, had left her feeling morefortable than any other treatment she had undergone in the past. Even the n leader, who was somewhat skilled in healing, had not been able to match this level of relief.


    ¡°Have you ever taken any Youth Retaining Pills in the past?¡± Lan Chang''an asked casually, observing how her pale, youthful face seemed unaffected by the passing years.


    ¡°My mother gave me one when I was younger,¡± Xia Wenyue answered softly, looking down at her feet, not daring to look straight into Senior Lan''s eyes.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t expose her lie.


    Having consumed a Youth Retaining Pill himself, he was well aware of its effects.


    It was clear that Xia Wenyue had never taken such a pill.


    This only solidified Lan Chang''an¡¯s belief that she possessed an innate Dao physique.


    The unique qualities of the ¡°Cold Soul Jade Marrow¡± had provided her with a frozen-youth effect, dying the signs of aging.


    ¡°Have you had your condition examined by an experienced healer before?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°When I was a child, my mother took me to see a skilled pharmacist. At that time, my symptoms weren¡¯t as severe, so they only prescribed some warming tonics to dispel the cold. But over the years, none of the treatments worked, and I was told it was a congenital weakness, the cold energy passed down from the womb,¡± Xia Wenyue exined, her eyes clouded with a hint of mncholy.


    ¡°The n leader also examined me a few times, but eventually, he gave up¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an nodded thoughtfully.


    ¡°Alright, go and rest now.¡±


    Lan Chang''an waved his hand dismissively, letting her leave the medicine room.


    Xia Wenyue left, feeling conflicted and a bit disheartened.


    She had hoped that Lan Chang''an, with his knowledge of health and cultivation, would have some insight into her condition and offer a cure.


    But all he had done was stabilize her condition, without delving deeper or showing any particr curiosity.


    ¡°She probably doesn¡¯t fully understand her own Dao physique. Perhaps her mother knew the truth and warned her to avoid letting outsiders examine her too closely. That¡¯s likely why, during my first two years on Autumnwind Isle, Xia Wenyue was wary and refused my offer to help with her illness,¡± Lan Chang''an surmised as he watched the frail girl walk away.


    The characteristics of her innate Dao physique had only begun to manifest as she advanced in her cultivation and age. It had taken Lan Chang''an¡¯s careful examination to even notice them.


    In her early years, before she had embarked on the path of cultivation, her condition was likely mistaken for an ordinary congenital illness. No healer had discovered the true nature of her body.


    ¡°As long as the ailment she inherited from the womb is eradicated and her body properly nourished, she can practice a cold-attribute cultivation method to unlock her physique¡¯s potential. Then, everything will fall into ce,¡± Lan Chang''an thought, his mind formting a treatment n for Xia Wenyue.


    However, her condition had caused irreversible damage due to the prolonged cold energy in her body. Regr pills and healing methods were insufficient to cure her.


    Only by expending his own lifespan to channel his Evergreen technique could he fully eliminate the root of her ailment.


    He had some experience with simr situations, having used this technique to hatch the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s egg and heal Mu Bingyun¡¯s damaged foundation.


    However, Xia Wenyue wasn¡¯t rted to him in any meaningful way. Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t inclined to sacrifice his own lifespan to save someone else¡¯s life.


    Moreover, since this involved an innate Dao physique, recklessly intervening could entangle him in karmic consequences.


    ...


    On Autumnwind Isle.


    Over the next half-year, Xia Wenyue was delighted to notice that her body had gradually improved, and her cultivation progressed more smoothly.


    In fact, she even found herself advancing faster than other cultivators with simr spiritual roots in the n.


    This newfound hope encouraged her to take better care of her body, using medicinal tonics and training diligently.


    However, this improvementsted less than six months.


    After that, her condition rpsed. The cold energy once again built up in her body, and her frail constitution returned to its former state.


    As her cultivation advanced, the symptoms worsened, and every full moon, she was wracked with pain as the cold energy gnawed at her bones and organs.


    Xia Wenyue realized that her earlier recovery had been due to Lan Chang''an¡¯s intervention.


    It was his treatment that had temporarily expelled the cold energy and alleviated her condition.


    Now, she longed to ask Lan Chang''an for help again, but she hesitated, unsure of how to approach him.


    Before her mother had passed away, she had warned Xia Wenyue never to trust anyone in the n except for the n leader regarding her condition.


    She had also been told never to let an outsider examine her.


    If no special opportunity arose, her mother had said, it would be better to live an ordinary life. Otherwise, her rare beauty and physique would bring disaster upon herself and those around her.


    ¡°Mother¡­ I still haven¡¯t avenged your death, nor have I found my real father. I can¡¯t resign myself to being a weak, sickly girl for the rest of my life,¡± Xia Wenyue thought to herself, determined after enduring another excruciating full moon night.


    The effectiveness of Lan Chang''an¡¯s healing abilities had given her hope.


    However, she had once refused his help and now only had a tenuous rtionship with him as a medicine apprentice and servant, master and maid.


    Asking for his help again would be difficult and embarrassing for her.


    ...


    Two monthster, with the arrival of winter, rivers froze under the biting cold.


    Autumnwind Isle¡¯s temperature plummeted, and Xia Wenyue¡¯s condition worsened as the cold energy within her reached its peak. She could barely manage even simple tasks like gathering herbs.


    Any slight use of her mana would trigger the cold energy to surge through her body, causing intense pain.


    One day, after another fainting spell, she awoke feeling the familiar warmth and vitality return to her body.


    ¡°If this continues, you¡¯ll shorten your lifespan. You may even lose your life.¡±


    She opened her eyes to see Lan Chang''an standing nearby, hands behind his back.


    ¡°Senior Lan, what should I do?¡± Xia Wenyue asked weakly.


    ¡°If you stop cultivating, your symptoms will ease,¡± Lan Chang''an replied calmly.


    ¡°Stop cultivating?¡± Xia Wenyue smiled bitterly, holding her chest as she coughed lightly.


    For a cultivator with ambitions on the path of immortality, giving up cultivation was akin to giving up life.


    ¡°Senior Lan, I want to continue cultivating. It¡¯s the only way for me to change my fate,¡± Xia Wenyue said, tears welling up in her eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯ve examined me twice now, Senior Lan. You must have noticed something unusual about my body. Before my mother passed, she told me that my special physique, once I reach a certain level, could benefit others,¡± Xia Wenyue said, her pale face showing a hint of helplessness. She bit her lip and decided to gamble everything.


    ¡°If you can cure me and help me cultivate, I¡¯ll serve you for life as a servant or concubine. This body¡ªeverything¡ªwill be at your disposal.¡±


    ¡°Haha! You trust me that much?¡± Lan Chang''anughed, amused by her desperation.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard from the n that you¡¯re a trustworthy person, Senior Lan, known for your good reputation in the Liang Kingdom. A few years ago, you saved Shenn without asking for anything in return,¡± Xia Wenyue said with a faint smile, choosing her words carefully.


    ¡°Moreover, with my cultivation advancing, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve already noticed the peculiarities of my physique after treating me twice.¡±


    There was another reason she didn¡¯t mention.


    This was still the Xia Family¡¯s territory, and they had elders, including a powerful n leader at the Fake Dan stage.


    Even if Lan Chang''an had other intentions, the n leader could intervene and control the situation.


    ¡°You¡¯re a clever girl, Xia Wenyue. Very well, I happen to be curious about innate Dao physiques. I¡¯ll give you a chance,¡± Lan Chang''an finally agreed.


    ¡°Thank you, Senior Lan!¡± Xia Wenyue said gratefully, bowing deeply.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be too happy just yet,¡± Lan Chang''an said coldly. ¡°Your condition is not a minor issue. Each time I treat you, it will drain my vital energy, and it will take years of careful treatment. I can¡¯t guarantee sess.¡±


    ¡°Senior Lan, I¡¯ve studied medicine. I know this will be difficult, and unless a high-level healer intervenes, there¡¯s no cure. Even if it fails, I won¡¯t me you, and I will dly serve you for the rest of my life,¡± Xia Wenyue replied solemnly.


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you understand. From now on, I¡¯ll personally treat your condition every two months,¡± Lan Chang''an promised.


    Xia Wenyue bowed once more, deeply grateful.


    Lan Chang''an instructed her to sit cross-legged and ced his hand over her navel, channeling his spiritual energy to nourish and heal her.


    For the first few years, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t intend to use his lifespan to cure herpletely.


    He would only alleviate her symptoms, allowing her to maintain her health and continue her cultivation.


    Even this lesser treatment was far superior to what other wood-attribute techniques could offer.


    Lan Chang''an had two reasons for holding back.


    First, if he cured her too quickly, it would draw too much attention.


    He had no desire to be some famous miracle doctor in the area, drawing undue attention.


    Second, he didn¡¯t want to do all the work, only for someone else to swoop in and reap the benefits.


    He wasn¡¯t sure who else might be aware of Xia Wenyue¡¯s condition.


    At the very least, the n leader, Xia Hongyu, seemed to know something.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s mother had passed away, but her father¡¯s identity was still a mystery¡ªanother unknown factor.


    So, until Xia Wenyue advanced to the next stage of her cultivation, Lan Chang''an decided to observe her further, keeping his full healing abilities in reserve.


    Even Xia Wenyue¡¯s character would need to be tested over time.


    ...


    Over the following six months, thanks to Lan Chang''an¡¯s regr treatments, Xia Wenyue¡¯splexion improved noticeably.


    Her cultivation progress returned to normal, and she was able to cultivate smoothly once again.


    In two years¡¯ time, after her body had fully recovered, Lan Chang''an nned to help her switch to a cold-attribute cultivation technique.


    One day, inside his cultivation chamber, Lan Chang''an focused his magical power, nourishing a set of fifty or sixty treasure talismans floating before him.


    These treasure talismans glowed with a radiant light, their aura far surpassing that of ordinary talismans.


    Most of them emitted an energy equivalent to the low-third rank, and some were nearing the mid-third rank in power.


    A few, however, remained at the quasi-third rank level.


    These talismans were primarily crafted over the years with materials provided by the Wufu Merchant Association.


    As a resident talisman master, the Xia Family naturally wouldn¡¯t waste Lan Chang''an¡¯s talents as a quasi-third-rank talisman master.


    Every year, they supplied him with materials for quasi-third-rank or third rank talismans, and Lan Chang''an refined some of the more spiritually infused materials into treasure talismans.


    Without realizing it, the number of treasure talismans that Lan Chang''an had nourished in his hands had grown to as high as fifty to sixty.


    ¡°After consuming so many Life Extension Pills, I finally got some results. The speed at which I can nourish treasure talismans has increased several timespared to when I was at the early Foundation Establishment stage.¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled to himself, satisfied with his progress, and with a wave of his sleeve, he put away all the treasure talismans.


    ...


    Half a yearter, Lan Chang''an reached the age of 152.


    On this particr day, feeling that he was in excellent condition, he retrieved another batch of materials for Foundation Establishment Pills and began another alchemy session.


    Seven dayster, Lan Chang''an sessfully opened the furnace and produced one genuine Foundation Establishment Pill and two inferior ones.


    ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve ever refined a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill in three lifetimes of cultivation,¡± Lan Chang''an mused, delighted with his achievement.


    Although the Foundation Establishment Pill was now useless to him, it was still a strategic resource, and refining a genuine pill was a significant milestone, marking him as an experienced second-rank alchemist.


    Xia Wenyue, unaware of the reason for his good mood, noticed that Lan Chang''an seemed particrly happy.


    She brought over a pot of spirit wine and a table of dishes, apanying him for a half-day of casual drinking.


    ¡°Master Lan, did you have a Daopanion back in the Liang Kingdom?¡± she asked, curious.


    ¡°No,¡± Lan Chang''an replied simply.


    ¡°A concubine, then?¡±


    ¡°I suppose you could say I had one,¡± Lan Chang''an said after a moment¡¯s thought.


    ¡°Master Lan, you¡¯ve been expending your own vital energy to heal me. Aside from your curiosity about my physique, what do you expect from me in return? Could you give me a hint?¡± Xia Wenyue asked cautiously, her snowy face tinged with a light flush of intoxication.


    She had recently begun addressing him as ¡°Master Lan¡± due to their doctor-patient rtionship and their years of close proximity.


    After all these years, with the asional private healing session, it was only natural that some ambiguous feelings had started to stir.


    She knew that Lan Chang''an had always remained calm and indifferent toward her, showing only mild admiration for her beauty.


    But today, after a few drinks, his words seemed to carry a deeper meaning.


    ¡°Perhaps, one day, I¡¯ll need to take something from you,¡± Lan Chang''an said vaguely, not entirely certain himself.


    He had a theory that once Xia Wenyue reached the Foundation Establishment stage, he might be able to extract the jade marrow from her body.


    If his theory was correct, this marrow could beparable to a rare heavenly treasure, offering a cultivator tremendous benefits.


    ¡°Something from me?¡± Xia Wenyue blushed even deeper, her cheeks turning red as she bowed her head in embarrassment.


    ¡°If there¡¯s anything you need from me, Master Lan, it¡¯s yours to take,¡± she said shyly.


    ¡°The future is always uncertain. Maybe I¡¯m just overthinking it¡ªit¡¯s more of a casual bet than anything else,¡± Lan Chang''an chuckled. ¡°Some innate Dao physiques are as rare as heavenly spiritual roots. In the future, Lan might have to hug Xia Wenyue''s thigh.¡±


    Hisment wasn¡¯t entirely in jest.


    He cultivated slowly, whereas those with innate Dao physiques were favored by the heavens. Anything was possible.


    Hearing his words, Xia Wenyue¡¯s face grew even hotter, and she nearly buried her face in her chest.


    She bit her lip, her thoughts racing: Master Lan had always remained calm in the face of my beauty, showing only mild appreciation. Why, after some wine, did he suddenly start speaking in such a suggestive way?


    To Xia Wenyue, his words felt like a veiled hint.


    Later that evening, she mustered the courage to offer to help Lan Chang''an bathe and change clothes, only to be swiftly dismissed with a wave of his sleeve.


    ...


    The next morning, after finishing his routine cultivation and treasure talisman nourishing, Lan Chang''an received a letter that had arrived through the Jing Kingdom¡¯s merchant guild channels.


    Outside his residence on Autumnwind Isle.


    Xia Wenyue approached the letter courier and received the message.


    As soon as she took hold of the letter, a sharp sound echoed¡ª"squeak!"¡ªand the letter suddenly vanished from her hand.


    Her delicate face paled in shock for a moment, but she quickly regained herposure, understanding what had happened.


    ¡°Master, this is your letter. It¡¯s from the Liang Kingdom.¡±


    Lan Chang''an had just risen when the childlike voice came to his ears.

 Chapter 237: Erqing’s Last Wish

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an wasn''t the least bit surprised when the Earth Burrowing Rat spoke.


    It wasmon knowledge that most beasts only achieved human form upon reaching the fourth rank. However, speaking humannguage was a much simpler task.


    A third-rank Great Demon, equivalent to a human at the Core Formation Realm, could easily refine the horizontal bone in their throat. With time andprehension, understanding human speech came naturally.


    There were also rare spirit pills, like the Tongling Elixir, which allowed beasts to speak prematurely. Some extraordinary beasts could even speak humannguage as early as the first or second rank.


    "Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain..."


    Lan Chang''an epted the letter handed over by the Earth Burrowing Rat, noticing the plum blossom insignia marking the seal¡ªa clear sign it came from the Li Family in the Liang Kingdom.


    Li Congren, the head of the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain, was the most sessful grandson of Li Erqing. Their territory was near the border of the Liang Kingdom, and they had established early trade ties with the Jing Kingdom merchant guilds.


    Ten years ago, Lan Chang''an had used his connections with Li Congren to slip into the Jing Kingdom.This letter, sent via the merchant guild¡¯swork, had several restrictive spells protecting it.


    "Four years ago, when I resumed my identity as Lan Chang''an within the Xia Family, the Xinyue Merchant Association began investigating me in the Liang Kingdom. This, in turn, alerted the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain¡­"


    As Lan Chang''an read through the beginning of the letter, he quickly grasped the situation.


    At present, the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain had expanded their trade, founding a family-run merchant guild that now had more frequent dealings with the Jing Kingdom¡¯s tradework.


    Because they had been keeping an eye out, Li Congren had learned about Lan Chang''an¡¯s whereabouts in the Jing Kingdom over the past two years.


    This letter wasn¡¯t just Li Congren¡¯s initiative; it was also under the directive of Li Erqing of Feiyue Lake¡¯s Mu Family.


    Upon learning about his big brother¡¯s whereabouts, Li Erqing had been deeply moved and instructed Li Congren to find a way to establish contact.


    In times of war, when military supplies could still cross borders,munication was possible if one had the right connections and knew the recipient¡¯s location.


    Of course, such cross-border correspondence took a long time, with multiple variables potentially dying delivery.


    ...


    "The year I fled the Liang Kingdom, Zhao Siyao took an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill and, usingmon Core Formation items, managed to form a Fake Dan."


    Many of the people and events mentioned in the letter were of particr concern to Lan Chang''an.


    "A few yearster, the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm opened, and the enemy''s Foundation Establishment cultivators used a temporary passage to enter, killing and looting to seize heavenly materials and treasures."


    "At the time, Zhao Siyao¡¯s disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er, reachedte Foundation Establishment and secured a great deal of fortune in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm."


    "Little Turtle Peak''s mountain caretaker, Qi Feng, was taken care of by the Beast Taming Zhou Family and Fairy Shi, and achieved Foundation Establishment two years ago. He now refers to himself as the ¡®Mountain Guardian¡¯ and has established a small escort organization on Little Turtle Peak¡­"


    "The Golden Sun Sect forces of the Feng Kingdom have seized half of the spiritual veins and cultivation grounds in the Liang Kingdom. They now focus on consolidating their spoils and territory, slowing their invasion. The Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects, centered around the ¡®me Departing Pce,¡¯ are doing everything they can to defend the remaining half of the kingdom."


    "Many of the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation factions have lost their spiritual veins and cultivation grounds, forcing them to explore the wastnds of the ck Fog Mountain Range. Some loose cultivators have followed the flow of others and fled to the Jing Kingdom, while a few have ventured north, crossing the Endless Sands Chasm into the Fengyuan Kingdom."


    "The Mu Family of Feiyue Lake, now located in Feng Kingdom-upied territory, has been rtively fortunate. Thanks to Mu Jiuan¡¯s influence, the Mu Family presented the Youth Retaining Pill they once received to a high-ranking woman in the Golden Sun Sect, ensuring their safe surrender."


    As he read most of the letter, Lan Chang''an finally felt some relief.


    Both Zhao Siyao and Li Erqing, the people closest to him, were still alive.


    Even his adoptive father¡¯s descendant had sessfully established his Foundation on Little Turtle Peak using the Foundation Establishment Pill he had left behind.


    At the end of the letter, Li Erqing¡¯s longing was conveyed:


    Li Erqing had one final wish¡ªhe hoped to see Lan Chang''an once more in this lifetime.


    "Li Erqing suffered serious injuries during a fight with the Feng Kingdom¡¯s cultivators. He likely only has until the age of two hundred to live."


    Lan Chang''an considered the details in the letter and understood Li Erqing¡¯s despair.


    With the shadow of war hanging over the cultivation world, and the two nations locked in conflict, for ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators with only a few decades of life remaining, it was unlikely they¡¯d ever reunite.


    Even though Mu Jiuan provided protection for the Mu Family, that didn¡¯t guarantee safety. They could still be conscripted to fight, leaving them exposed to the dangers of war.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t certain if he¡¯d ever see Li Erqing again.


    Nevertheless, in his reply, he gave a firm response:


    "Big brother is well here in the Jing Kingdom. Once I attempt Core Formation, regardless of sess or failure, I will return to the Liang Kingdom one day."


    After writing the reply, Lan Chang''an set restrictions around it and handed it to the Earth Burrowing Rat to deliver to Xia Wenyue.


    The Wufu Merchant Association was a prominent yer in the Merchant Alliance and had members traveling to the Liang Kingdom every year, capable of sending the letters.


    Now that Lan Chang''an was officially a guest elder of the Xia Family, he didn¡¯t need to personally handle such trivial matters.


    ...


    Three monthster.


    While in meditation, Lan Chang''an suddenly opened his eyes, his gaze directed toward the heart of Qingsha Bay.


    Just moments before, he sensed that the Xia Family''s patriarch, Xia Hongyu, had left the n¡¯s territory.


    Such urrences had been exceedingly rare during Lan Chang''an¡¯s years of residing on Autumnwind Isle.


    A few dayster, during a casual conversation with Xia Wenyue, he learned that Patriarch Xia Hongyu had gone to the headquarters of the Wufu Merchant Association to oversee matters personally.


    "It seems the Xia Family¡¯s control over the guild is weakening. For a Fake Dan ancestor to leave the n grounds and head to the main guild headquarters, something serious must be happening."


    The Wufu Merchant Association was facing both internal and external troubles, and anyone could see it.


    Externally, the rival Xinyue Merchant Association was aggressively suppressing them, attempting to annex their businesses.


    Internally, the Xin Family, one of the Wufu, had produced a Fake Dan cultivator and had once received backing from the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    Lan Chang''an had a general idea of why Patriarch Xia Hongyu had gone to the headquarters.


    If they couldn¡¯t subdue the Xin Family, the Wufu Merchant Association would likely splinter.


    "That old guy finally left. Now I canfortably soak up more spiritual energy."


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was the happiest to see Xia Hongyu gone.


    The patriarch¡¯s Water Curtain Cave had a spiritual environmentparable to a quasi-third-rank vein, and every time the Earth Burrowing Rat snuck over to siphon energy, it had to be extremely cautious, hiding deep underground.


    But now that Xia Hongyu was gone, the rat could indulge more freely.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t particrly care about the internal strife of the Wufu Merchant Association.


    Even if things went badly and the Xia Family lost control, it would merely mean they¡¯d forfeit arge portion of their assets.


    Due to the Merchant Alliance¡¯s regtions, high-level cultivators rarely engaged in lethal battles.


    If the Xia Family were to lose, they would simply cut their losses and protect Qingsha Bay¡¯s core territory.


    As long as the n¡¯snd remained intact, it wouldn¡¯t affect Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation.


    With Patriarch Xia Hongyu¡¯s departure, Qingsha Bay had clearly heightened its defensive formations, and the number of patrolling cultivators had also increased.


    Aside from Lan Chang''an, there were still three Foundation Establishment elders holding down the fort.


    This included the people he was more familiar with, like the young master, Xia Mingqu, and the one he had saved, Xia Shenn.


    Including Lan Chang''an, Qingsha Bay now had four Foundation Establishment cultivators. With the n¡¯s protective formations, even a Fake Dan expert would struggle to break through directly.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    Lan Chang''an was preparing to make another trip outside the n.


    For one, the Earth Burrowing Rat had used up all the third-rank beast pills needed for its cultivation.


    Secondly, Xia Wenyue¡¯s cultivation had be increasingly smooth, and she had recently reached the eighthyer of Qi-Refining.


    However, after scouring the Xia Family¡¯s ancient records, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t found any detailed information on the "Cold Soul Jade Marrow" physique that Xia Wenyue possessed.


    Thus, he nned to buy more third-rank beast pills while also searching for any texts that might provide further insight into this rare Dao physique.


    In addition, he had refined several Foundation Establishment Pills, three of which were of inferior quality, so he could consider selling them off appropriately.


    "Master Lan, there is a distinguished guest within the n who hase to request medicine," Xia Wenyue, dressed in her simple yet elegant white gown, informed Lan Chang''an.


    Thanks to his two years of treatment, her condition had stabilized, allowing her to cultivate normally. Her once paleplexion had regained a healthy glow.


    Currently, Xia Wenyue was widely regarded as the most beautiful woman in Qingsha Bay, with numerous suitors vying for her hand.


    "A distinguished guest? Could it be one of Young Master Xia¡¯s friends?"


    Lan Chang''an scanned with his spiritual sense and noticed a young female Foundation Establishment cultivator in a pink dress waiting respectfully outside the residence.


    The woman¡¯s demeanor was charming, and her gaze seemed to carry a hint of flirtatious allure.


    "Yes, this senior is named Yu Qin. Many years ago, she and the young master were in love and almost became Daopanions. Later, Yu Qin joined the ¡®Cloud Mist Mountain¡¯ sect, and their rtionship gradually faded,"


    Xia Wenyue exined.


    Lan Chang''an had heard rumors about this woman visiting Qingsha Bay recently.


    "Since they¡¯ve already parted ways, why has Yu Qine looking for Young Master Xia again?"


    "I heard she¡¯s fallen on hard times recently. She was expelled from her sect and her family is in decline, so she sought help from the young master. Out of old affection, he agreed to take her in for a while."


    "Alright, bring her in."


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t particrly interested in the young master¡¯s personal affairs and waved for Xia Wenyue to bring the guest inside.


    "Madam Yu Qin greets Master Lan,"


    Yu Qin gracefully curtsied, her eyes shimmering with a delicate allure.


    "What medicine do you seek, Fellow Daoist Yu?"


    Lan Chang''an exchanged a few pleasantries before cutting to the chase.


    "Years ago, I suffered an injury that left me with a lingering condition. Each month, I endure bouts of cold in my lower abdomen. I¡¯ve heard that Master Lan is skilled in medicine and specializes in nurturing. I¡¯vee to request a prescription to ease my symptoms."


    "Cold in the lower abdomen? A prescription?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s guard went up.


    He had only recently stabilized Xia Wenyue¡¯s condition, and now this woman showed up asking for a remedy for a cold condition?


    Could this be some sort of test?


    "Would Master Lan be willing to take my pulse?"


    Yu Qin stepped forward, extending her pale wrist toward him, her gaze briefly flickering toward Xia Wenyue.


    Sensing the subtle tension, Xia Wenyue excused herself and left the room.


    Lan Chang''an ced two fingers on Yu Qin¡¯s wrist, his brow furrowing slightly.


    Yu Qin exuded a soft fragrance, her gaze lingering on him with a faintly affectionate glimmer.


    "The cold symptoms you¡¯re experiencing are normal for women of your age. There¡¯s no need for concern,"


    Lan Chang''an replied calmly, scribbling out a basic prescription and handing it to her without asking for any payment.


    Yu Qin took the prescription, but when she saw Lan Chang''an quietly sipping his tea, her expression soured. With a final nce, she left disappointed.


    Lan Chang''an watched her leave, a flicker of surprise crossing his face.


    There was indeed an underlying condition in her body, but it wasn¡¯t caused by external factors. If not for his heightened senses, he might not have noticed it at all.


    What exactly was she trying to do?


    At first, he suspected it might be rted to Xia Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique.


    However, Yu Qin hadn¡¯t shown any interest in Xia Wenyue at all. In fact, she seemed to harbor a natural aversion toward her beauty and demeanor.


    Was this a test? Or some sort of seduction?


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t quite figure it out and decided it wasn¡¯t worth his time.


    Yu Qin¡¯s cultivation level was that of a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator with rtively pure spiritual power, but nothing particrly noteworthy.


    "Keep an eye on that outsider," he instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat, taking a cautious approach.


    Before leaving on his trip, Lan Chang''an nned to notify the young master and subtly caution him.


    ...


    That evening, faint sobs echoed from Young Master Xia¡¯s residence, carrying the soft, helpless cries of a woman.


    "Are you saying Lan Chang''an did something indecent during the pulse reading and took advantage of you?"


    Xia Mingqu was taken aback, finding it hard to believe.


    "That can¡¯t be right. Fellow Daoist Lan has a sterling reputation in the Liang Kingdom and has shown no interest in women in the n. He even rejected Shenn¡¯s advances..."


    "Hmph! That¡¯s because Xia Shenn¡¯s beauty is nothingpared to mine," Yu Qin sniffled, her tears streaming down like pearls from a broken ne as she clung to Xia Mingqu.


    "Besides, Lan Chang''an wants no ties to the Xia Family. Rejecting Xia Shenn was just his way of avoiding responsibility."


    "But I¡¯m different. I¡¯m a helpless woman, abandoned by my sect and with no one to rely on. Even if he took advantage of me, he wouldn¡¯t need to bear the burden of responsibility."


    Her tear-streaked face looked up at Xia Mingqu with an expression full of hurt and betrayal.


    Xia Mingqu stared at her, stunned. This was the woman he had once loved and lost, the one who had left him behind years ago.


    Though time had dulled the feelings, there was still something inside him that stirred¡ªan unresolved desire to conquer what had once been unattainable.


    "Qin¡¯er, you¡¯re sure it wasn¡¯t just a misunderstanding? Maybe you were too sensitive during the examination?"


    "You doubt me now? Or do you really think he¡¯s some kind of saint?"


    Yu Qin¡¯s eyes widened, a look of hurt deepening as she stared at him, tears brimming.


    "You men are all the same. You were so righteous and reserved back then too, but look how quickly you fell under my charm..."


    "Alright, enough," Xia Mingqu sighed, rubbing his nose with a wry smile.


    ...


    The next day, Lan Chang''an visited the young master.


    Before heading out, he wanted to leave a subtle warning for Xia Mingqu.


    To his surprise, he found Xia Mingqu and Yu Qin walking side by side, looking like a happy couple.


    Given the situation, Lan Chang''an decided not to say anything further¡ªit would only make him seem petty.


    He found Yu Qin¡¯s behavior odd, suspecting she had ulterior motives, but without any solid evidence, there was no point in stirring things up.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯re now an esteemed guest elder of the n. You don¡¯t need to notify me personally for something as minor as a trip,"


    Xia Mingqu smiled, though his thoughts were conflicted.


    Last night, Yu Qin had used Lan Chang''an of misconduct, and now today, Lan Chang''an announced he was leaving. It all seemed a bit too coincidental, as if he were fleeing in guilt.


    After exining his trip, Lan Chang''an took his leave.


    ...

 Chapter 238: The Secret of the Dao Physique

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Yu Qin was merely an ordinary Foundation Establishment female cultivator. Lan Chang''an didn''t pay much attention to her and nned to subtly remind Young Master Xia about her at ater time. For now, he prepared to leave Autumnwind Isle alone, while leaving the Earth Burrowing Rat behind to keep watch.


    A few dayster...


    In the bustling Cloudsmoke Immortal City, a young man with yellow whiskers stepped out of therge pavilion of Wanshu Pavilion, holding a jade slip in his hand. His figure quickly merged into the crowd.


    Wanshu Pavilion was thergest chain of book repositories under the Jing Kingdom''s Merchant Alliance. Besides offering a variety ofmon cultivation techniques, secret arts, and the knowledge of many immortal arts, it also contained rare ancient texts and fragments of iplete books.


    "The Record of Innate Dao Physiques, priced at 1,800 spirit stones, records most of the known innate Dao physiques that have appeared in the Great Qing cultivation region over the past tens of thousands of years..."


    Shortly after, Lan Chang''an, disguised as the yellow-bearded young man, entered a modest inn in the city. In the privacy of the room, he used his spiritual sense to delve into the contents of the jade slip.


    The cultivation world was vast, with countless branches of knowledge. Even if a Core Formation cultivator tried to memorize everything, their sea of consciousness would explode. The limit of knowledge that their memory could carry would only be a drop in the oceanpared to the boundless knowledge of the cultivation world umted over endless eons.


    Thus, even as someone who had once reached the pinnacle of Core Formation in his past life, Lan Chang''an was not all-knowing. There were always gaps in his knowledge¡ªwhether it was about the Five Elements Earth, mystical treasures like the Xuanu Vine, or even rare Innate Dao Physiques."Found it¡ª''Cold Soul Jade Marrow'' Dao Physique!"


    Before long, Lan Chang''an located information about Xia Wenyue''s unique physique in the jade slip.


    ording to the Record of Innate Dao Physiques, the Cold Soul Jade Marrow Dao Physique had appeared before in the Great Qing cultivation world. However,pared to more mainstream Dao physiques, it was rather obscure and umon.


    The details in the jade slip were far moreprehensive than the scattered mentions Lan Chang''an hade across in ancient texts during his past life.


    "As I thought, Xia Wenyue''s innate Dao physique indeed possesses a ''beneficial effect'' for others."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression flickered with astonishment, followed by a sense of excitement.


    "But..."


    His joy quickly gave way to hesitation.


    The Cold Soul Jade Marrow¡¯s benefits exceeded Lan Chang''an''s expectations, and it had multiple uses.


    The first use was in line with his earlier suspicions: If the owner of the physique cultivated to Foundation Establishment or above, the bone marrow of a cultivator possessing the Cold Soul Jade Marrow physique would nurture a type of "Cold Jade Marrow" over many years, which could help others break through bottlenecks and advance in cultivation.


    The higher the cultivation of the Dao physique owner, the greater the impact.


    Once the owner reached the early Foundation Establishment stage, the Cold Jade Marrow could effectively eliminate small bottlenecks within the Foundation Establishment realm, offering results superior to standard breakthrough pills, all without impacting the cultivator¡¯s future potential.


    At thete Foundation Establishment stage, the Cold Jade Marrow could marginally increase the chances of forming a Core and even improve the quality of the resulting Core.


    "It''s essentially a powerful version of a Crystal Condensation Pill¡ªalmost as good as a superior-grade one."


    To say Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t tempted would be a lie.


    However, this benefit would only manifest after Xia Wenyue reached thete Foundation Establishment stage. Moreover, extracting the Cold Jade Marrow would cause permanent damage to her potential as a Dao physique owner¡ªessentially a "killing the goose thatys the golden eggs" scenario, harming her for selfish gains. ?????????


    "The benefits of the Cold Soul Jade Marrow during the Foundation Establishment stage are far from reaching their full potential..."


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes flickered as he murmured to himself.


    This brought him to the Dao physique¡¯s second use.


    If Xia Wenyue managed to cultivate to the mid-tote Core Formation stage while maintaining her virginity, her Cold Soul and Jade Marrow would align, and she could potentially nurture a single drop of Taiyin Jade Essence within her body.


    "Taiyin Jade Essence... capable of slightly increasing the sess rate of breaking through to the Nascent Soul Realm!"


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but breathe heavily.


    While Cold Jade Marrow could be forcibly taken, Taiyin Jade Essence could only be willingly given by the Dao physique owner. It had to be transmitted through dual cultivation, requiring the full cooperation of the female cultivator.


    It could not be taken by force.


    Moreover, offering the Taiyin Jade Essence didn¡¯t harm the Dao physique owner¡¯s potential.


    Thus, a Dao physique owner like Xia Wenyue would be highly sought after during the Foundation Establishment stage, but would be a much more valuable and protected treasure once she reached the Core Formation stage.


    As for the Dao physique¡¯s third use, it was a trait shared by most Yin-aligned Dao physiques¡ªserving as an ideal partner for dual cultivation or even as a powerful "furnace" to increase cultivation efficiency.


    However,pared to the first two uses, the third was hardly impressive. In fact, to Lan Chang''an, it was rather trivial.


    His cultivation technique, the Evergreen Technique, was constrained by time. External forces like dual cultivation could only enhance the daily efficiency of his training, not reduce the total amount of time required to advance.


    If he broke through that boundary in their rtionship before Xia Wenyue reached the necessary stage, it would result in the loss of the great oppurtunity of "Taiyin Jade Essence".


    ...


    "Although it only slightly improves the chances of advancing to Nascent Soul, it''s akin to a weaker version of the Infant Transformation Pill. Even the smallest boost would cause any True Dan Formation cultivator to flock toward it..."


    Lan Chang''an took a deep breath, calming his surging emotions.


    "However, obtaining the Taiyin Jade Essence won¡¯t be as easy as it seems."


    He was well aware of the difficulties involved.


    Even for someone with earth spiritual roots, reaching the mid-tote Core Formation stage could take well over a hundred years.


    Moreover, Xia Wenyue had already lost several years due to her initial setbacks in cultivation.


    "In one hundred-plus years, there are too many variables in the vicissitudes of time!"


    "Not only would she have to reach the mid-tote Core Formation stage, but she would also need to remain pure and guard her chastity."


    This was precisely what troubled Lan Chang''an.


    Out of all the conditions that needed to be fulfilled, reaching Core Formation wasn¡¯t even the most difficult.


    For most cultivators with innate Dao physiques, once they found the right cultivation technique, their progress was typically faster than someone with an earth spiritual root.


    The real challengey in the hundred years of uncertainty that followed, and in suppressing desires and maintaining purity.


    Take Lan Chang''an, for instance. Among cultivators, he could be considered rtively detached from worldly desires. At over one hundred fifty years old, he''d only experienced a few rtionships, with decades between each one. These asional dalliances had provided a release from the psychological and physical pressures that came with the long years of cultivation.


    No one wanted to be an emotionless cultivation machine.


    "In such a long stretch of time, it¡¯s not only external variables that be a concern. Human nature itself is the biggest unknown factor."


    Lan Chang''an knew that while Xia Wenyue now looked up to him with admiration and reverence, treating him with care, who could say how she would feel after a century had passed?


    The potential and progression speed of an innate Dao physique was unpredictable.


    Though his own cultivation was slow and steady, it was entirely possible that a century from now, Xia Wenyue might surpass him.


    "Regarding this girl Xia Wenyue, I¡¯ll need to take a longer view."


    After much contemtion, Lan Chang''an formed a rough n in his mind.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    Under the guise of another identity, Lan Chang''an visited variousrge stores in Cloudsmoke Immortal City, eventually selling off two of his inferior-grade Foundation Establishment Pills.


    In recent years, Lan Chang''an had used two batches of Foundation Establishment Pill materials, refining a total of one genuine pill and three inferior ones.


    Originally, he had nned to sell all three inferior-grade pills and keep the single genuine product.


    Now, he decided to hold on to one inferior-grade pill for Xia Wenyue.


    "With her innate Dao physique, which is at least as good as an earth spiritual root, there''s no need to provide her with higher quality breakthrough resources."


    That was Lan Chang''an''s reasoning.


    Over the next few days, using yet another identity, Lan Chang''an purchased materials for crafting advanced puppets. These would help him improve his puppet-making techniques and increase his margin of error in directbat.


    Afterpleting his purchases, Lan Chang''an resumed his guise as the straw-hat elder, "Xiang Immortal," and visited the Snow Fox Merchant Association to meet with Hanyu Immortal.


    The batch of third-rank beast pills he had acquired from the Snow Fox Merchant Association in previous years had already been consumed by the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    As a third-rank Great Demon, the Earth Burrowing Rat was, frankly, suffering in the cultivation environment of Autumnwind Isle.


    Thus, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality beast pills was essential for its continued growth.


    In fact, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s cultivation had exceeded Lan Chang''an''s expectations in recent years.


    Perhaps due to having formed a ''Half-Step Golden Dan,'' the Earth Burrowing Rat''s cultivation speed, even in a less-than-ideal spiritual energy environment, has surpassed that of most superior-grade bloodline demon beasts, nearly reaching the level of earth-grade bloodlines.


    Lan Chang''an had considered moving the Earth Burrowing Rat to a more suitable cultivation ground but ultimately dismissed the idea.


    "A suitably harsh environment can temper its mind, bones, and body."


    "Even if I relocated it to a third-rank spiritual vein, the improvement would only be minor. It¡¯s better to let the Earth Burrowing Rat stay at the early third rank and refine its foundation for now. It¡¯s for its own good."


    Admittedly, Lan Chang''an also had a slight ulterior motive.


    If he had yet to reach the Core Formation stage while the Earth Burrowing Rat somehow managed to advance to mid-third rank, creating a huge power gap, it would make him, as its master, look quite ipetent.


    Of course, this was unlikely. Under normal circumstances, the Earth Burrowing Rat wouldn¡¯t break through in the next fifty years.


    ...


    Within the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s estate.


    "Xiang Immortal, what a coincidence. Lady Hanyu is currently out on business and not in Cloudsmoke Immortal City. Rest assured, I will do my best to gather the necessary beast pills within half a month."


    The person receiving Lan Chang''an was Elder Gao Songcheng.


    "There¡¯s no need to trouble Lady Hanyu. Just focus on acquiring the beast pills," Lan Chang''an waved off the offer.


    "Please be patient, Xiang Immortal. We¡¯ll have everything ready within fifteen days."


    Gao Songcheng spoke with great respect.


    Lan Chang''an declined the elder¡¯s invitation to stay and left the Snow Fox Merchant Association, making his way back to the Xunxian Residence.


    Only a few dayster...


    Hanyu Immortal returned to Cloudsmoke Immortal City in secret. Disguising her identity, she made her way to the Xunxian Residence to meet Lan Chang''an privately.


    The guest suite at the inn was a standalone courtyard.


    Inside the parlor, Lan Chang''an watched as a graceful woman dressed in a form-fitting ck dress removed her veil, revealing Hanyu Immortal¡¯s snow-like, delicate beauty.


    Though not quite as striking as Xia Wenyue, Hanyu Immortal''s icy and noble aura had earned her fame throughout the Jing Kingdom¡¯s Merchant Alliance as one of its great beauties.


    "Lady Hanyu, you¡¯ve hidden your identity ande to see me privately. What¡¯s the asion?"


    After exchanging a few pleasantries, Lan Chang''an smiled and cut to the chase.


    "Big Brother Xiang, can¡¯t Hanyu visit you without an agenda?"


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile, her cold eyes carrying a hint of yfulness. Her fragrant scent filled the air as she gently leaned against Lan Chang''an¡¯s shoulder.


    As the night deepened, the cold moon hung high in the sky.


    Before the bed, a ck dress, embroidered shoes, and a set of white robesy scattered on the floor.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s hand rested on Hanyu Immortal¡¯s smooth, jade-like back as he reclinedzily.


    "Xiang Immortal, there is something I¡¯d like to discuss with you."


    Hanyu Immortal, her pale cheeks still flushed with lingering warmth, nestled against Lan Chang''an¡¯s chest and whispered softly.


    "What matter could be so urgent that it requires discussing at night?"


    Lan Chang''an chuckled, already sensing that either Hanyu Immortal or the Snow Fox Merchant Association had a request.


    The guild had helped him on numerous asions, and after the intimate time they had spent together, Lan Chang''an was willing to repay the favor if it was within his means.


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s crystal-clear eyes glimmered as she rolled them at him.


    Then she began to exin the situation:


    "In two months, our Snow Fox Merchant Association will be sending a critical shipment of goods to ''Taifeng City'' in southern Jing Kingdom. We¡¯ve already hired a Foundation Establishment guard and arranged for a Fake Dan expert from our guild to apany them. It¡¯s a strong escort."


    "However, this shipment is of strategic importance to our guild. To ensure nothing goes wrong, Grandfather Guangjun hopes you can take your third-rank Great Demon and secretly guard the convoy for half a month."


    The "Grandfather Guangjun" she referred to was Guangjun Immortal, the True Dan ancestor of the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    Lan Chang''an had met him once after the Earth Burrowing Rat formed its Half-Step Golden Dan.


    "Are you expecting True Dan cultivators to ambush the shipment?"


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly.


    "Our guild and the opposing forces are mutually restrained, and we currently have no extra True Dan cultivators to spare."


    "Grandfather Guangjun estimates that there¡¯s about a thirty percent chance the enemy may hire an external True Dan cultivator to intercept the shipment. But don¡¯t worry, Xiang Immortal. If the enemies detect True Dan-level protection on our side, their hired True Dan expert won¡¯t risk their life. They¡¯ll either pull back or retreat without a fight."


    Hanyu Immortal calmly borated.


    She hoped to use one of the favors Lan Chang''an owed her to enlist his help.


    Seeing the expectation in her eyes, Lan Chang''an patted his chest and boldly dered, "You have my word, I¡¯ll assist!"


    In his mind, Lan Chang''an had already formted a n.


    For this "escort" mission, he would send the Earth Burrowing Rat to shadow the convoy. If no True Dan cultivator showed up, that would be ideal.


    If one did, the Earth Burrowing Rat could release its own True Dan-level aura to scare them off, hopefully dissuading them from engaging in a direct confrontation.


    In the worst-case scenario, if things escted into a life-and-death battle, he would have to withdraw.


    But that oue was unlikely.


    True Dan-level confrontations were rarely seen within the Merchant Alliance¡¯s internal conflicts.


    "If the mission seeds, the Snow Fox Merchant Association will offer three years¡¯ worth of third-rank beast pills as a reward."


    Hanyu Immortal smiled, offering generouspensation.


    Lan Chang''an nodded in satisfaction. Although it was a promise, the Snow Fox Merchant Association knew how to sweeten the deal, ensuring he wouldn¡¯t be acting without any tangible rewards.


    ...


    After spending two more days together, Hanyu Immortal discreetly departed.


    "Taifeng City in southern Jing Kingdom, huh?"


    Lan Chang''an thought back to the details of their agreement.


    Taifeng City was a crucial city located on Jing Kingdom¡¯s southern border, near the Chen Kingdom.


    More than half of the trade between Jing Kingdom and Chen Kingdom¡¯s cultivation worlds passed through Taifeng City.


    The city itself was controlled by the "Taifeng Merchant Association," thergest guild in the alliance, nearlyparable to a sect, with a True Dante-stage cultivator overseeing its operations.


    Two months from now, the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s convoy would likely involve significant trade with the cultivation world of Chen Kingdom.


    Seven dayster...


    Lan Chang''an returned to the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s estate to collect enough third-rank beast pills for four or five years.


    "I¡¯ve finished my business in Cloudsmoke Immortal City, and I¡¯ve also figured out the mystery behind Xia Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique."


    After a final review to ensure nothing was left undone, Lan Chang''an set off for home.


    ...


    Back at his estate on Autumnwind Isle in Qingsha Bay...


    Upon his return, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t meet Xia Wenyue immediately. Instead, he summoned the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    "Thank you for the reward, Master." The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s youthful voice chirped as its bright eyes gleamed, epting several bottles of third-rank beast pills from Lan Chang''an.


    Normally, the Earth Burrowing Rat maintained a sizeparable to that of arge dog, keeping its cultivation suppressed to the peak of the second rank.


    As Lan Chang''an reclined in his chair, he casually asked, "During the half-month I was away, did that woman show any unusual behavior?"


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an had instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat to keep an eye on Yu Qin.


    Now that he had confirmed the significance of Xia Wenyue¡¯s Dao physique¡ªwhich contained a precious opportunity to break through to the Nascent Soul stage¡ªhe had be more vignt.


    Especially toward outsiders like Yu Qin, who had previously tried to seduce him. As Xia Mingqu¡¯s old me, she naturally raised Lan Chang''an''s suspicions.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 239: Stirring Up Trouble

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    ¡°Master, that human female cultivator...¡±


    Upon hearing the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s youthful voice, Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression turned somewhat peculiar.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was a formidable True Dan-level demon beast, gifted with earth-burrowing abilities and a keen sense of smell, making it exceptional at tracking. Over the past half-month while Lan Chang''an was away, it had kept a close eye on Yu Qin¡¯s every move.


    Every interaction she had, her cultivation, meals, entertainment, and even the colors of her undergarments¡ªall were meticulously observed and reported.


    Lan Chang''an found this amusing. Before he left, he had only instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat to keep an eye on her, but he hadn¡¯t expected the creature to take the task so seriously.


    Based on the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s report, two suspicious points about Yu Qin surfaced.


    The first was that Yu Qin had privately gathered various medicinal herbs, including powders, potions, and perfumes. However, ording to the Earth Burrowing Rat''s keen sense of smell, none of the substances were poisonous.


    The second suspicious point was that Yu Qin had once gone out for a trip.The Earth Burrowing Rat had not followed her because Lan Chang''an had tasked it with guarding the Xuanmu Vine that grew at the bottom of the deep pool, a priority of utmost importance.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment. ¡°Did she ever deliberately show interest in or try to get close to Xia Wenyue?¡±


    With Xia Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique containing the potential key to breaking through to the Nascent Soul Realm, along with the risks it posed, Lan Chang''an naturally felt on edge and wary of possible threats.


    ¡°No,¡± the Earth Burrowing Rat shook its little head.


    ¡°In that case, it seems Yu Qin¡¯s intent for seeking refuge here has nothing to do with the secret of Xia Wenyue¡¯s Dao physique.¡±


    Lan Chang''an let out a soft breath of relief.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, even if she has malicious intent, it¡¯s likely due to some connection with a rival faction of the Xia Family.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was unaware that Yu Qin had previously tried to sow discord between him and Xia Mingqu. During his time away, Yu Qin had refrained from bad-mouthing him further, choosing instead to act submissive and pitiful in front of Xia Mingqu.


    Yu Qin knew the art of subtlety¡ªtoo much nder would make her motives transparent. It was enough to nt a seed of doubt in Xia Mingqu¡¯s mind without overying her hand.


    ...


    Two dayster, at the Autumnwind Isle estate.


    Lan Chang''an sent out amunication talisman, requesting a meeting with the Xia Family elder, Xia Shenn.


    As the Xia Family¡¯s honored guest elder, Lan Chang''an had sensed that something was amiss with Yu Qin and decided to warn Xia Mingqu. However, despite his status, he was still an outsider to the family, and Yu Qin had once been deeply involved with Xia Mingqu, almost bing his Daopanion. Their rtionship was far more personal andplicated than anything Lan Chang''an could offer.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an chose to approach Xia Shenn first, so as not to put Xia Mingqu in a difficult position.


    Xia Shenn was Xia Mingqu¡¯s cousin, and she had once been married into the Xin Family, the second-most powerful branch within the Wufu Merchant Association.


    Half an hourter...


    Dressed in an elegant, sky-blue gown, the dignified Foundation Establishment female cultivator gracefully descended upon Autumnwind Isle.


    ¡°It''s a rare honor to be invited by you, Fellow Daoist Lan. I didn¡¯t dare dy for even a moment,¡± Xia Shenn smiled softly, though there was a certain distance in her tone that wasn¡¯t there before.


    Years ago, before Lan Chang''an had revealed his true identity, he had once saved Xia Shenn¡¯s life. After she severed ties with the Xin Family, the Xia Family had tried to pair her with Lan Chang''an, even offering him a precious pill to help him break through to thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    But Lan Chang''an had refused the match, causing their rtionship to gradually be more distant, now more akin to a typical acquaintance between cultivators.


    ¡°Elder Shenn, you tter me. I¡¯m just an old Foundation Establishment cultivator, hardly someone of great importance,¡± Lan Chang''an responded with a smile, unfazed by the subtle shift in her demeanor.


    In a side hall, the two took their seats.


    Xia Wenyue, with a bright smile on her face, served refreshments and exchanged pleasantries with Xia Shenn.


    ¡°Wenyue, you look much better these days. It seems your cultivation has advanced as well... It appears that Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s cultivation technique is truly remarkable when ites to nurturing and healing,¡± Xia Shenn remarked, her surprise evident as she observed the changes in Xia Wenyue.


    Xia Wenyue had always been a stunning beauty, but her frail health had dulled her radiance. Now, with her illness under control, her appearance had blossomed to new heights, as if she were an exquisite jade, wless and mesmerizing. Even Xia Shenn, as a fellow female cultivator, couldn¡¯t help but feel a tinge of amazement.


    She nced again at the handsome, otherworldly Lan Chang''an and sighed inwardly.


    Back when Lan Chang''an was concealing his true identity, Xia Shenn had held some affection for him, though it hadn¡¯t developed into romantic love. When the family had tried to pair them, she had been open to the idea.


    However, after Lan Chang''an revealed his identity and rode off gantly on his turtle, Xia Shenn¡¯s heart, long dormant, had stirred momentarily.


    In the years since, she had quietly kept an eye on this guest elder from Liang Kingdom, learning about his past through reports and rumors. The more she learned, the more she admired his perseverance and the more curious she became about his journey.


    But s, Lan Chang''an had rejected the family¡¯s marriage proposal, and Xia Shenn had too much pride to approach him again.


    Now, as she sat here, a small part of her couldn¡¯t help but hope for something more.


    ...


    After a cup of tea¡¯s time, Xia Shenn¡¯s faint hopes began to dissipate.


    Lan Chang''an showed no interest in revisiting the past, instead steering the conversation toward topics like the current politicalndscape of the Wufu Merchant Association, the growth of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, and the ongoing war in the Liang Kingdom.


    Once Xia Wenyue had withdrawn from the room, Lan Chang''an finally broached the subject of Yu Qin with Xia Shenn.


    Of course, he was subtle, merely suggesting that with the Wufu Merchant Association facing both internal and external pressures, the Xia Family should keep a closer eye on Yu Qin.


    After all, he had no concrete evidence.


    Sure, Yu Qin had tried to seduce him, but there was no tangible proof of wrongdoing. Without hard evidence, his words were just spection.


    ¡°Do you believe Yu Qin is up to something? Do you have any proof?¡± Xia Shenn¡¯s brows furrowed in thought.


    Lan Chang''an chuckled, ¡°No proof, just a hunch. Take it for what it¡¯s worth.¡±


    ¡°I see. I¡¯ll make sure Mingqu is aware. But right now, he¡¯s preparing to break through to thete Foundation Establishment stage...¡± Xia Shenn hesitated, unsure of how to proceed.


    ¡°He¡¯s nning a breakthrough?¡± Lan Chang''an understood her concern.


    Reaching thete Foundation Establishment stage was a critical juncture, one that required absolute focus, free from emotional distractions.


    ...


    After leaving Autumnwind Isle, Xia Shenn decided it was still best to speak with Xia Mingqu.


    As the next leader of the Xia Family, if Xia Mingqu couldn¡¯t handle minor personal matters, then he didn¡¯t deserve the family¡¯s resources.


    Inside Xia Mingqu¡¯s residence...


    ¡°Shenn, I¡¯m nning to enter seclusion soon to break through. With the patriarch and my father stationed at the merchant guild¡¯s headquarters, I¡¯ll need to rely on you to handle the family¡¯s affairs in my absence.¡±


    Xia Mingqu greeted his cousin with the utmost respect and trust.


    ¡°It¡¯s no trouble; I¡¯ll handle everything.¡±


    After a brief nod, Xia Shenn got straight to the point, rying her earlier conversation with Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an suspects Qin¡¯er?¡± Xia Mingqu couldn¡¯t help but smile wryly.


    Just over half a month ago, Yu Qin hade to him, tearfully using Lan Chang''an of inappropriate conduct during a pulse check, iming that he had taken advantage of her.


    To maintain stability within the family and to protect his own pride, Xia Mingqu had kept the matter quiet, telling no one.


    Now, with Xia Shenn bringing this up, he couldn¡¯t help but feel conflicted, so he decided toe clean.


    ¡°So, you believed her?¡± Xia Shenn¡¯s expression turned cold.


    ¡°Not entirely. I trust her words about thirty percent. After all, ording to the intelligence we¡¯ve gathered from the Liang Kingdom, Lan Chang''an has a solid reputation as a good-natured man,¡± Xia Mingqu shook his head.


    After Yu Qin¡¯s return, Xia Mingqu had discreetly investigated her background. Her fall from grace and expulsion from the Yunxia Mountain sect were legitimate, as was her family¡¯s decline. Everything seemed in order.


    ¡°What do you n to do about this?¡± Xia Shenn pressed.


    ¡°Qin¡¯er and I were close once, but that was many years ago. Those feelings have long since faded. She can¡¯tpare to someone like Talisman Master Lan.¡±


    Xia Mingqu¡¯s tone was calm and resolute.


    ¡°It''s good that you understand.¡±


    Xia Shenn¡¯s expression softened. Regardless of personal feelings, Xia Mingqu hadn¡¯t lost sight of the bigger picture.


    Lan Chang''an was already ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, with a high-ranking demon beastpanion and the skill of a quasi-third-rank talisman master. His status wasn¡¯t far off from a Fake Dan cultivator.


    ...


    By evening.


    In his meditation chamber, Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, deep in thought as he pondered the secret core dissolution technique he had traded from Zhang Tieshan.


    The technique was called the Returning Dust Core Transformation Method, and Lan Chang''an had already studied it extensively during his spare time.


    However,cking a master¡¯s guidance, he still hadn¡¯t fully grasped some of its more intricate details, even after many years of contemtion.


    This was despite his previous life¡¯s experience as a peak Core Formation cultivator, giving him a significant advantage in understanding such techniques.


    It was a testament to the importance of proper tutge.


    Many cultivation sects had secret arts that, even if leaked, would be nearly impossible for ordinary cultivators to master without guidance.


    ¡°Zhang Tieshan never had a Nascent Soul master, yet he dared to pursue this path of ¡®Pill Reformation.¡¯ His fortune must be extraordinary...¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s thoughts drifted back to the letter he had received from Liang Kingdom. Zhang Tieshan had disappeared after being hunted by a Core Formation cultivator.


    Most assumed he was dead.


    But Lan Chang''an was convinced that Zhang Tieshan had used this as an opportunity to fake his death and quietly undergo Pill Reformation.


    ¡°In another two years at most, I should reach the eighth level of Foundation Establishment. Even without a master, I should be able to fullyprehend this technique before reaching the ninth level.¡±


    Lan Chang''an mulled over his n.


    ¡°Even if I fail the Pill Reformation and suffer a bacsh, I can use the Evergreen secret spell to recover, so I¡¯m not too concerned about damaging my foundation...¡±


    He had already tested this when Guan Qiaozhi failed her own Foundation Establishment attempt, confirming that the secret spell could heal such damage.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat suddenly appeared beside him, seemingly out of nowhere.


    ¡°Oh?¡±


    After listening for a moment, a smile crept across Lan Chang''an¡¯s face. He waved the creature off, sending it back underground to continue its cultivation.


    He murmured to himself, ¡°It seems the Xia Family¡¯s decision-makers haven¡¯t let me down.¡±


    Unbeknownst to Xia Shenn and Xia Mingqu, their conversation had been secretly overheard by the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Lan Chang''an usually had little interest in eavesdropping on others, nor did he care to intrude on their privacy.


    But Xia Mingqu¡¯s attitude and decisions would directly impact Lan Chang''an¡¯s future within the Xia Family.


    Had Xia Mingqu been swayed by Yu Qin, developing hostility or suspicion toward him, Lan Chang''an would have wasted no time in leaving the Xia Family for good.


    ¡°So it was a ploy to sow discord after all. If I had been forced out, Xin¡¯s power would have rivaled the Xia Family¡¯s.¡±


    In ns like the Xia and Xin Families, where both of them had a Fake Dan cultivator, everyte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator was a key to holding their territory.


    And Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t just anyte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    As long as he remained in Qingsha Bay, the Xia Family¡¯s rear would be secured, and they would continue to benefit from his high-quality talismans.


    Reflecting on the two earlier suspicious points regarding Yu Qin, Lan Chang''an could now roughly deduce her next move.


    ...


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an took the initiative to visit Xia Shenn¡¯s cultivation site, and rumors began circting that their rtionship was warming, hinting at a rekindling romance.


    In truth, Lan Chang''an was merely dropping subtle hints for her to pick up on.


    Whether Xia Mingqu took them to heart or not was no longer his concern.


    As an honored guest of the Xia Family, Lan Chang''an had already done his part by offering a basic warning. He wouldn¡¯t go above and beyond for something like this.


    Three days after his visit to Xia Shenn, Yu Qin came to Autumnwind Isle once more, seeking medicinal remedies.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with her and left her standing at the door.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if Talisman Master Lan doesn¡¯t handle this personally. The medicine I need is something even his little disciple could prepare.¡±


    Yu Qin remained unfazed, shing a bright smile.


    With her radiant beauty on full disy, she went to Xia Wenyue, requesting some medicinal herbs and ingredients for concocting remedies and fragrance sachets.


    She even took the time to chat with Xia Wenyue.


    As a senior in the Foundation Establishment stage, Xia Wenyue could hardly refuse and reluctantly apanied her.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t interfere, simply instructing the Earth Burrowing Rat to watch over Xia Wenyue in secret.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Xia Mingqu began his seclusion to break through to thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    Lan Chang''an monitored his progress from afar and determined that there would be no major issues with the breakthrough.


    However, given Xia Mingqu¡¯s age, he could have afforded to spend another year or two honing his foundation.


    The decision to rush the breakthrough likely stemmed from the Xia Family¡¯s desire to bolster their strength.


    The Xia and Xin families each had a Fake Dan ancestor, creating a delicate bnce of power.


    Fake Dan cultivators typically reached a teau in strength, with little room for growth, barring a few exceptional cases. Thus, the true movers and shakers were often thete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators who could influence the oue of power struggles.


    While Xia Mingqu cultivated in seclusion, Xia Shenn and Yu Qin took turns guarding the entrance, a perfectly reasonable arrangement given their close rtionships with him.


    But a few days into his seclusion...


    Inside the chamber, Xia Mingqu¡¯s aura surged as he approached the breakthrough to thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    Suddenly, however, the flow of his spiritual power came to a screeching halt, and his cultivation began to plummet uncontrobly.


    Cough!


    A mouthful of dark purple blood burst from Xia Mingqu¡¯s lips as his spiritual power red wildly, mming into the chamber walls.


    ¡°Mingqu!¡±


    Xia Shenn¡¯s face paled in shock as she rushed inside, breaking through the chamber¡¯s barrier.


    ¡°What kind of poison is this? I personally inspected all the pills!¡±


    Xia Mingqu¡¯s normally fairplexion was now a mix of red and green. His body trembled, his face twisted in disbelief.


    He had clearly suffered a cultivation mishap¡ªone induced by poison.


    ...


    Standing at the chamber door, Yu Qin hesitated for a moment.


    Xia Shenn turned to her, her eyes burning with rage. ¡°Yu Qin! Did you poison him?¡±


    Over the past several days, aside from herself, only Yu Qin had been in close contact with Xia Mingqu.


    Lan Chang''an, meanwhile, hadn¡¯t even set foot in Xia Mingqu¡¯s residence since his return.


    Yu Qin¡¯s charmingughter echoed from outside the chamber, dripping with mockery.


    ¡°Poison? Oh, that¡¯s no ordinary toxin. It¡¯s a special mixture of rare medicinal powders, perfume, and potions. Once someone attempts to break through a bottleneck, it activates, causing their blood to boil and their mind to spiral into chaos...¡±


    Before Xia Shenn or Xia Mingqu could react, Yu Qin casually tossed a small ck orb into the chamber.


    Boom!


    A st of ck me erupted, engulfing the entire room in a ten-zhang radius, while thick, poisonous smoke spread across the chamber.


    Without waiting to see the oue, Yu Qin, dressed in her signature pink robes, transformed into a streak of light and soared above the rising clouds of poison.


    ¡°Without Talisman Master Lan¡¯s herbs, I wouldn¡¯t have been able to execute my n so wlessly,¡± she mused with a yful smirk, casting a nce in the direction of Autumnwind Isle.


    Even in the middle of her escape, she couldn¡¯t resist casting me on him.


    ¡°Yu Qin! How dare you harm the young master!¡±


    A Foundation Establishment elder from the Xia Family quickly rallied the n¡¯s forces, sending a squad of cultivators to pursue Yu Qin.


    But Yu Qin remained calm andposed.


    Most of the Xia Family¡¯s core members were tied up in their power struggle with the Xin Family, stationed at the merchant guild¡¯s headquarters and other branches to protect their assets.


    At present, only four Foundation Establishment cultivators are left to guard Qingsha Bay.


    One of them, Lan Chang''an, was an outsider.


    Autumnwind Isle was located in a remote area, far from the Xia Family¡¯s core territory. It would take time for Lan Chang''an to arrive.


    That left only three real pursuers.


    Besides, Xia Mingqu and Xia Shenn had already been injured by her ambush and were unlikely to pose much of a threat.


    Of course, the biggest variable was Lan Chang''an.


    Based on her intelligence, Yu Qin knew that Lan Chang''an could easily overpower her. But she also knew that he had a reputation for ying it safe back in Liang Kingdom, where he was known as the ¡°Turtle Talisman Master.¡±


    A man like that wouldn¡¯t risk his life or act rashly!


    With this certainty, Yu Qin felt confident in her escape.


    Her confidence stemmed from the detailed intelligence provided by her backers, along with her own deep knowledge of the Xia Family¡¯s terrain and defenses.

 Chapter 240: Master Instructed Me

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    "Now is the moment to break free amidst the chaos. No one can stop me!"


    Yu Qin pulled out a quasi-third-rank flight escape talisman, channeling her mana into it. In about half a breath¡¯s time, she pressed it against her waist.


    For those with low cultivation, activating high-grade talismans is often not instantaneous due to the immense power that needs to be drawn from the talisman.


    Swoosh!


    In an instant, Yu Qin''s speed surged, surpassing the level of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The n elder chasing her, also at Foundation Establishment, was instantly left far behind.


    Yu Qin¡¯s lips curled in satisfaction. Her mission had gone off without a hitch, and she had aplished a significant feat.


    Though she had stirred up trouble within the Xia Family, she hadn¡¯t actually killed anyone.The young master Xia Mingqu she targeted was the Xia Family''s next-in-line to lead the Wufu Merchant Association. He was nearly a guaranteedte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, with a high potential to reach the Core Formation Realm in the future.


    However, due to the exotic poison she had concocted, Xia Mingqu¡¯s advancement had failed. The severe bacsh he suffered would inevitably damage his foundation.


    As a result, even if he barely managed to reachte-stage Foundation Establishment in the future, his chances of forming a core would be slim.


    Moreover, Xia Mingqu¡¯s father, Xia Yongzhong, had failed to form a core in his youth and had been overseeing the merchant association''s business affairs in a managerial role ever since.


    The n head, Xia Hongyu, though skilled in health preservation techniques, had far less life remaining than the Fake Dan immortal from the Xin Family.


    Yu Qin¡¯s plot not only prevented the Xia Family from adding a newte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator but also created a risk of a gap in their future high-end fighting strength.


    Beyond that, Yu Qin had even cast suspicion onto Lan Chang''an, the Xia Family¡¯s strongest offering.


    The poison she had concocted included certain ingredients she specifically bought on Autumnwind Isle.


    These traces would lead the Xia Family¡¯s upper echelon to conduct an investigation, and they¡¯d be unlikely to fully trust Lan Chang''an afterward.


    ¡°Xia Mingqu, don¡¯t me me for being ruthless. Back then, your parents opposed our rtionship, looking down on my humble family background.¡±


    "With this achievement, the Xinyue Merchant Association will not only reward me generously but will also ept my family through marriage."


    Yu Qin¡¯s expression shifted, showing aplex mix of emotions, even a slight pang of guilt.


    When Xia Mingqu suffered from bacsh upon his failed advancement, she actually had the chance to kill him on the spot.


    She didn¡¯t act, partly because of lingering guilt, unable to go through with the fatal blow.


    On the other hand, Xia Mingqu, as the young master, might possess powerful life-saving techniques.


    "Stop her!"


    Yu Qin had already flown past the Xia Family''s inner grounds; aheady the n-protecting formation''s radiant barrier.


    With the quasi-third-rank talisman boosting her speed, low-level Qi-Refining cultivators couldn¡¯t approach her, and any that tried were easily dispatched. ??


    "The Xia Family''s protective formation is quasi-third-rank, but without a sufficient number of Foundation Establishment cultivators to operate it, its power is greatly diminished."


    Brimming with confidence, Yu Qin flew straight toward the barrier.


    As long as she broke through, she¡¯d be safe¡ªshe even had allies waiting to pick her up outside.


    ...


    Buzz!


    Ahead, the n-protecting formation red with intense light, and thunderclouds gathered in the sky, brewing thick, serpent-like blue lightning bolts.


    "Something¡¯s wrong!"


    Yu Qin¡¯s face turned pale as she sensed the formidable spiritual pressure from the heaven-and-earth formation, making her breath heavy.


    Whosh!


    The formation summoned a storm of lightning and rain, nketing her escape route and significantly slowing her down.


    Meanwhile¡­


    Two figures sliced through the air behind her, chasing relentlessly.


    "Xia Mingqu?! You¡ª"


    Yu Qin nced back, her almond-shaped eyes widening in disbelief as she spotted Xia Mingqu and Xia Shenn, both unharmed.


    The two were also using quasi-third-rank flight talismans. Additionally, each held an array g, channeling the power of the quasi-third-rank formation to block Yu Qin¡¯s escape.


    Xia Mingqu''s face was grim, his eyes cold as he stared at the alluring figure in the pink dress.


    To him, Yu Qin''s betrayal was not only treacherous¡ª it was a path-blocking grudge! If she seeded, his cultivation journey would forever stagnate at Foundation Establishment.


    Thanks to Lan Chang''an¡¯s warning, he had suspected the worst oue¡ªthat Yu Qin might be a mole and was trying to sow discord.


    But he had never imagined that she would strike with such ruthless intent.


    Because Yu Qin hadn¡¯t used a conventional poison, he hadn¡¯t detected anything amiss beforehand and couldn¡¯t hastily use either Lan Chang''an or her.


    After Lan Chang''an restored his identity, the second-rank spiritual contract he¡¯d signed was already voided, which made it possible for him to bepromised by a rival force.


    Thus, his attempt to break through was all an act.


    He bathed in various medicinal brews to expel the toxins, feigning a failed advancement to confirm Yu Qin¡¯s treachery.


    "Yu Qin, the protective formation has been activated. Today, you won¡¯t escape even if you grow wings!"


    As he spoke, Xia Mingqu directed the formation''s power to limit Yu Qin¡¯s movement.


    However, due to the rushed activation and theck of sufficient Foundation Establishment cultivators, they couldn¡¯t unleash the full might of the formation.


    Swoosh!


    While Xia Mingqu was speaking, another figure closed in from several li away, emitting a powerfulte-stage Foundation Establishment aura.


    "It¡¯s Talisman Master Lan."


    Xia Shenn and Xia Mingqu exchanged a nce, rxing slightly.


    Lan Chang''an had approached from Autumnwind Isle, his speed on par with the peak ofte-stage Foundation Establishment.


    Judging by the timing, he hade immediately and hadn¡¯t deliberately held back.


    Though Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t used his trump cards, he had already fulfilled his duties as an external provider by assisting in the n¡¯s defense.


    ...


    "If I want to leave, none of you can stop me!"


    Seeing Lan Chang''an closing in from the side, a trace of panic finally appeared on Yu Qin''s face.


    The intelligence from the Xinyue Merchant Association rated Lan Chang''an¡¯sbat power very high, saying that it would take two or threete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators to subdue him.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had started from the distant Autumnwind Isle and was still the farthest away.


    Boom! Crackle!


    Lightning and rain battered her, shattering her supreme-grade magic weapon and depleting several upper second-rank talismans.


    Finally, she reached the barrier¡¯s edge.


    "Break!"


    Yu Qin¡¯s eyes shed coldly as she activated a Restriction-Breaking Talisman. A beam of twisted, destructive light tore open arge gap in the protective formation.


    "A quasi-third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talisman!"


    Seeing this, Xia Mingqu and Xia Shenn¡¯s expressions darkened.


    Restriction-Breaking Talismans are rare, strategic resources. A quasi-third-rank one is a rtively rare item, even within the huge Merchant Alliance.


    "Heh¡­ If I didn¡¯t have such trump cards, would I have dared to risk my life on such a dangerous mission?"


    With the flight talisman¡¯s boost, Yu Qin swiftly passed through the formation¡¯s breach.


    Her next move was to dive into the dense forest near a water bay, where she quickly vanished from sight.


    "So close! Just one step short."


    Xia Mingqu sighed as he and Xia Shenn stopped before the formation.


    With few strong cultivators stationed in the n, if the two of them pursued, it would leave their defenses vulnerable.


    "She got away?"


    Several breathster, Lan Chang''an arrived, ncing at the closing breach in the array.


    Xia Mingqu''s face flushed slightly with embarrassment.


    Despite coordinating with the protective formation, the three n elders had failed to capture Yu Qin.


    "That Yu Qin had both a quasi-third-rank escape talisman and a Restriction-Breaking Talisman. We didn¡¯t have enough people, and the formation was hastily activated¡­¡± Xia Shenn exined quietly.


    Lan Chang''an understood.


    Besides him, none of the others were atte-stage Foundation Establishment, so theycked the overwhelming strength needed to overpower a mid-stage cultivator like Yu Qin.


    Yu Qin was a loose cultivator who was expelled from her sect and was no weakling.


    If it were a one-on-one battle without any trump cards, Xia Mingqu might not have stood a chance.


    "Talisman Master Lan..."


    Xia Shenn hesitated for a moment, an unwilling look in her eyes as she gazed in the direction where Yu Qin had fled.


    Lan Chang''an immediately understood her intent.


    Although Yu Qin had managed to escape, her magical weapon was damaged, and she had exhausted her life-saving talismans.


    As someone at thete Foundation Establishment stage, Lan Chang''an had a reasonable chance of capturing or killing her if he pursued.


    But Lan Chang''an remained silent, pretending he hadn¡¯t understood.


    After all, his role as an honored guest of the Xia Family was mainly due to his side profession as a talisman master. Their previous agreements never included any obligation for him to engage in life-threatening battles.


    Helping with the n¡¯s defenses was already fulfilling his duty.


    Besides, he had already made arrangements for Yu Qin¡¯s fate.


    "Sister Shenn, don¡¯t make things difficult for Talisman Master Lan! Yu Qin might have backup waiting for her. If we chase her recklessly and fall into an ambush..."


    Xia Mingqu said seriously, stepping in to dissuade her.


    "I was being short-sighted, letting my hatred cloud my judgment," Xia Shenn admitted, her face showing a hint of regret.


    "Yu Qin alone isn¡¯t much of a threat. By exposing the Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s scheme, we¡¯ve managed to save the family from a major loss, so it¡¯s not as if we came out empty-handed," Xia Mingqu said, regaining his calm and trying to console her.


    Xia Shenn nodded, casting a sidelong nce at the pensive expression on Xia Mingqu''s face, and a thought urred to her.


    She could tell that Xia Mingqucked a strong desire to kill Yu Qin, preferring a more cautious approach and advising against the pursuit.


    After all, they had once been in love.


    Since Yu Qin hadn¡¯t caused any severe damage, Xia Mingqu, after severing his romantic ties with her, had left her a slim chance of survival.


    ¡­


    In a forest a hundred li away, within the Qingsha Bay region.


    A slender female cultivator dressed in a pink robe leaned against a towering tree, panting heavily as beads of sweat dotted her forehead.


    "Thank goodness¡­ Lan Chang''an has no real killing intent. The nickname ¡®Turtle Talisman Master¡¯ is well-deserved. I knew he wouldn¡¯t go all out..."


    Yu Qin let out a deep sigh of relief, feeling a lingering sense of fear.


    Her escape hade at a heavy cost, with over half her mana depleted.


    If Lan Chang''an, ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, had chosen to pursue her, she would have been as good as dead.


    Now that she had narrowly escaped, she felt a bit of smug satisfaction. After all, she had managed to survive the pursuit of four Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    A faint smile appeared on Yu Qin''s delicate, heart-shaped face as she began to contemte how she would report back.


    Suddenly, she felt the ground beneath her feet shift.


    Crack!


    In the next instant, Yu Qin¡¯s slender legs in her pink dress went stiff as they were brutally mped down upon by a maw filled with sharp, blood-stained teeth.


    "Ah! No¡ª!"


    Yu Qin''s face turned pale, her body freezing in fear as a chilling demonic aura enveloped her, causing her mana and blood to seize up.


    In her final moments of agony and despair, only a shred of consciousness remained.


    Her fair and graceful form was devoured inch by inch, like a pristine lotus root being snapped apart, disappearing into the ravenous jaws.


    On the ground, there was no trace of Yu Qin¡¯s body.


    In her ce stood a massive demon rat, over twenty zhang long, with a muscr build and a coat of tawny fur.


    Whoosh!


    The giant demon rat opened its maw, inhaling fiercely, causing dust and sand to swirl as it absorbed all traces of blood and any lingering aura.


    "Master instructed me to leave no trace at the scene. Simple enough¡ªdevouring her will do."


    The demon rat shrank, its form soon resembling a small yellow-brown dog as it muttered to itself.


    After a brief hesitation, it spat out a storage pouch.


    It took out a handful of spirit stones and a few spiritual fruits from the pouch.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat chewed greedily, the crunching sounds echoing through the forest.


    After a satisfying feast, it disyed a look of contentment that it hadn¡¯t experienced in a long time.


    Reluctantly, it packed up the remaining half of the spoils.


    With a flicker of earthy yellow light, the Earth Burrowing Rat burrowed into the ground and vanished.


    ¡­


    Shortly after the Earth Burrowing Rat disappeared, a sound of low-altitude flight approached from the other side of the forest.


    Soon, a burly, bearded man exuding an aura of fierce energy floated above the area where Yu Qin had met her end.


    "Strange¡­ The Xia Family''s defensive formation was activated, and she managed to break through and escape. ording to our agreement, she should be here..."


    The burly man, named Kou Sen, furrowed his brows, his peak Foundation Establishment spiritual sense sweeping over the area.


    Kou Sen was the vice president of the Xinyue Merchant Association and was responsible for providing support to Yu Qin on this mission.


    Though he held the title of vice president, Kou Sen didn¡¯t handle the guild¡¯s business affairs; his primary role was overseeing the guild¡¯s guards. His martial prowess was exceptional, cing him among the strongest within the Foundation Establishment realm.


    Years ago, the sect fugitive from the Liang Kingdom named Fang Zhong had managed to withstand no more than ten breaths against Kou Sen, despite also being at thete Foundation Establishment.


    Several years ago, Fang Zhong had suffered a defeat near Qingsha Bay, and Kou Sen had since looked down on him.


    This mission was of great importance, and for the sake of caution and secrecy, Kou Sen hade personally, without informing any subordinates.


    Kou Sen searched the area for a long time but found no trace of Yu Qin¡¯s aura or presence.


    A sense of foreboding began to creep in, and he prepared to turn and leave.


    Just then, the ground quaked.


    Shnk!


    A massive, jagged stone spike shot up from the ground, hurtling towards Kou Sen in mid-air.


    "Not good!"


    Kou Sen¡¯s instincts screamed danger, sending shivers down his spine as a feeling of mortal terror washed over him.


    A veteran of countless battles, his reactions were sharp. As the stone spike broke through the earth, he unleashed a surge of mana.


    Swish!


    With a sharp crackling of wind and lightning, Kou Sen barely managed to dodge to the side, moving six or seven zhang away to avoid the full impact of the stone spike.


    Steadying himself, Kou Sen looked down to find his body bloodied and mangled.


    His entire right shoulder, along with a portion of his torso, had been sheared away as if sliced off by an invisible de, leaving blood sttering through the air.


    Despite his immediate reaction, the spike had still grazed him, shattering his peak Foundation Establishment protective barrier and nearly costing him his life.


    "A¡­ a third-rank great demon!"


    Kou Sen barely had a moment to catch his breath. Despair flooded his face as he looked down at the small, dog-sized demon rat emerging from a yellow glow in the ground.


    Though only the size of a small dog, the rat exuded a spiritual pressureparable to a Core Formation Realm cultivator.


    "A mighty Core Formation demon¡­ stooping to ambush¡­"


    Kou Sen¡¯s heart filled with dread, a bitter smile crossing his face as he realized he was doomed.


    If he had been in peak condition, he might have been able to hold out a bit longer against a Fake Dan Immortal, maybe even escape.


    But with his heavily injured body, facing a third-rank demon beast was nothing short of a death sentence.


    Struggling, he reached out to summon his magical treasure prototype and activated a life-saving third-rank talisman.


    In that instant, the Earth Burrowing Rat moved, leaving only a blurred afterimage.


    Thunk!


    Kou Sen¡¯s body stiffened, staring down at the sharp w piercing through his chest from behind.


    "My master says, if a sneak attack works, never engage in a frontal fight."


    The Earth Burrowing Rat slowly withdrew its w, shredding Kou Sen¡¯s organs in an instant.


    "A third-rank great demon¡­ Lan Chang''an¡¯s demon rat spirit pet¡­"


    In his dying moments, Kou Sen¡¯s final sliver of consciousness recognized a terrifying truth.


    He wanted to ry this information to the Xinyue Merchant Association, but it was toote.


    Following its usual procedure, the Earth Burrowing Rat devoured Kou Sen¡¯s body, and then retrieved his storage pouch.


    As a vice president, Kou Sen¡¯s storage pouch contained a wealth of spoils, far more valuable than those of ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    As the vice president of the Xinyue Merchant Association, Kou Sen''s spoils of war were quite abundant, far surpassing the averagete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "This human stumbled upon this ce by ident. To prevent any future troubles, I took him out. Master shouldn¡¯t me me for it," the Earth Burrowing Rat muttered to itself. It then devoured half of the heavenly treasures and earthly materials among the spoils, treating itself to a hearty meal.


    ¡­


    Half an hourter.


    In the secret chamber of his mansion on Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an sat expressionless, inspecting the two storage pouches presented to him by the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    After a brief count, he found a pleasant surprise in Kou Sen''s storage pouch.


    Inside were third-rank talismans, a talismanic treasure, the prototype of a magical weapon, and other valuable items. There were also materials that Lan Chang''an needed for crafting puppets, such as third-rank beast hides and various ores. Additionally, there was a sizable amount of spirit stones, medicinal pills, and magical weapons.


    "The vice president of the Xinyue Merchant Association¡­"


    From a few ount books and jade slips, Lan Chang''an learned of the identity of the person the Earth Burrowing Rat had "identally" killed.


    After killing Yu Qin, the Earth Burrowing Rat had thoroughly destroyed all evidence, leaving no trace behind.


    In reality, the vice president didn''t need to be killed. His death would undoubtedly stir up the upper echelons of the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    Lan Chang''an understood that the Earth Burrowing Rat had taken it upon itself to kill an additional person because it wanted to replenish its diet and advance its cultivation.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t me it. He turned a blind eye to the fact that it had pocketed some of the spirit stones and spiritual items for itself.


    Although the Xinyue Merchant Association had some power, theycked a True Dan Immortal to oversee them, so Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t concerned.


    If any issues arose in the future, he¡¯d simply let the Earth Burrowing Rat enjoy another "feast."


    "Next time, when you gather spoils in the field, make sure to destroy any suspicious items to avoid being trackedter."


    Lan Chang''an took out a few suspicious items from the storage bag and handed them to the Earth Burrowing Rat, imparting his insights.


    "You''re a third-rank demon beast with a powerful spiritual sense and a keen nose. In the future, try to learn more about human culture. It shouldn¡¯t be difficult for you."


    Squeak squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat nodded its little head earnestly, absorbing the lesson.


    It memorized the instructions: from now on, when bringing back spoils of war, it not only had to eliminate all traces but also destroy any suspicious items to help its master avoid future trouble.

 Chapter 241: Advancing Another Step

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Thousands of li away from Qingsha Bay, there was a medium-torge-scale market built by the riverside, known as the "Heluo Market."


    The overseer of this market was none other than the Xinyue Merchant Association of the Jing Kingdom Merchant Alliance.


    A few dayster.


    In the highest pavilion of Heluo Market.


    Several high-ranking members of the Xinyue Merchant Association gathered, the atmosphere heavy and tense.


    Seated at the head of the group was a silver-bearded man with an intense gaze, his aura emanating a distinct wave of core power. He was clearly a Fake Dan cultivator.


    "Guest Elder Fang, what insights do you have on the death of Vice President Kou Sen?"


    The gazes of the gathered high-ranking members fell upon a burly, purple-faced man in thete stage of Foundation Establishment, who was deep in thought.This man was none other than Fang Zhong, who had crossed the border into the Jing Kingdom along with Lan Chang''an.


    "President Le, I suspect this incident is rted to Lan Chang''an!"


    Fang Zhong''s words shocked everyone.


    "Lan Chang''an alone? Impossible!"


    "Kou Sen was one of the strongest in thete Foundation Establishment stage. He possessed third-rank talismans and other trump cards, enough to hold his own even against a Fake Dan cultivator."


    "Even if a Fake Dan cultivator were to kill Kou Sen, it would take a great deal of effort and would definitely cause amotion."


    "Though Lan Chang''an is strong, with his cautious nature as a ''Turtle Talisman Master,'' he would never risk his life in a head-to-head confrontation."


    The guild''s upper echelon all shook their heads in disagreement.


    "Guest Elder Fang, what grounds do you have for suspecting Lan Chang''an?" the silver-bearded president asked, his eyes glinting with curiosity.


    "Firstly, it¡¯s my intuition."


    Fang Zhong paused, his eyes sharp. "Back on the inter-kingdom spirit ship from Jiuchen Merchant Association, we were neighbors for two months, and I waspletely deceived by him. This shows that Lan Chang''an is exceptionally good at hiding his true self."


    "Secondly, in the Xia Family territory, besides the n head Xia Hongyu, Lan Chang''an is the only one strong enough to threaten Vice President Kou. The others couldn''t possibly endanger him."


    Hearing Fang Zhong¡¯s reasoning, a few of the guild''s senior members seemed thoughtful, showing slight signs of wavering.


    Perhaps Lan Chang''an couldn''t have acted alone, but if the Wufu Merchant Association had other hidden hands, it was a possibility.


    At that moment, the silver-bearded president at the head of the group took out a milky-white jade pendant with a faint glow and closed his eyes for two breaths.


    "ording to thetest intelligence from the Xia Family, during the time of Kou Sen¡¯s death, Lan Chang''an never left Qingsha Bay. Many people saw him, and he didn¡¯t step off Autumnwind Isle at all up to the day the intelligence was gathered."


    The silver-bearded president nced coolly at Fang Zhong.


    A high-ranking guild member shook his head and said, "Fellow Daoist Fang, maybe there¡¯s some personal grudge between you and Lan Chang''an, but don''t let it cloud your judgment." ?


    "I... don''t!"


    Under the skeptical gazes of everyone, Fang Zhong''s face flushed, yet he had no rebuttal.


    He gritted his teeth in frustration. Could it really be just his own delusion?


    Years ago, when Lan Chang''an''s identity was exposed, Fang Zhong was deeply shocked.


    Hailing from the Liang Kingdom, Fang Zhong had long heard the inspiring tale of Lan Chang''an, ate-bloomer who reached Foundation Establishment despite his advanced age.


    Later, he investigated Lan Chang''an¡¯s background in detail and increasingly felt that this man was far from ordinary.


    Not to mention, given Lan Chang''an¡¯s talent and age, reaching thete Foundation Establishment stage was no small feat.


    They had lived side by side for two months, and he hadpletely concealed his true cultivation from a peer-level sect elite¡ªsomething no ordinary person could achieve.


    "With Vice President Kou gone, we¡¯ve lost a significant martial strength in our campaign against the Wufu Merchant Association."


    "In my opinion, we don¡¯t need to rely on petty tricks anymore. Instead, we should increase our support for the Xin Family and apply pressure from inside and out by leveraging our advantage in Fake Dan cultivators..."


    As the other high-ranking members discussed, Fang Zhong had lost interest.


    Despite the intelligence clearing Lan Chang''an of suspicion as the culprit, he couldn''t shake the feeling that Lan Chang''an was somehow involved.


    He sighed deeply. Unfortunately, no one would believe him.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Autumnwind Isle residence, inside the medicine chamber.


    Xia Wenyue was dressed in a light blue cloud-patterned gown, her snow-whiteplexion delicate as a painting, her slender waist like a willow branch. The usual shadows of illness in her brows had mostly faded, reced by a subtle anticipation.


    Today was the day Lan Chang''an would help her again by using his power to warm and dispel the cold within her body.


    The warmth of Master Lan¡¯s magical power gave her an indescribable sense offort¡ªclear, gentle, and refreshingly soothing.


    This treatment had steadily improved her condition, giving her hope that she might one day shed the shackles of her frail health.


    After a while, Lan Chang''an entered the chamber, dressed in a white robe.


    "Master Lan."


    She greeted him softly, lying down on the bed in a serene, obedient manner.


    But this time, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t immediately start the treatment.


    "In previous sessions, I only removed the surfaceyer of cold poison. Now, to address the root cause, I will need to use up my own vital energy, which will impact my own cultivation and progression."


    Lan Chang''an spoke calmly.


    "Master Lan, if there¡¯s anything Wenyue can do, I willply without hesitation."


    They had already made a prior arrangement, and Xia Wenyue knew that Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t help her without expecting something in return.


    In fact, if he asked for nothing, it would be more cause for concern.


    Master Lan had once told her that free gifts were often the most costly.


    "I don¡¯t need you to serve me for life like a ve. Just take a heart demon oath and agree to fulfill one request."


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s eyes shed with surprise. Curing her ailment might require him to spend over a decade of his energy¡ªan enormous cost.


    She had been prepared to dedicate herself to him, willing to serve him for a lifetime.


    After all, Master Lan was handsome as jade and otherworldly in temperament; she felt no aversion to the idea.


    "Please speak inly, Master Lan," Xia Wenyue said, sitting up with a respectful expression.


    "In the future, when you reach the mid tote stages of Core Formation, you must give me the only drop of ¡®Taiyin Jade Essence¡¯ that your Dao Physique can produce."


    "And you must keep this agreement a secret from everyone else."


    "Taiyin Jade Essence?"


    Xia Wenyue had no idea what role her own innate Dao Physique could y at this moment.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t hold back, exining some of the records about the "Cold Soul Jade Marrow" Dao Physique to her.


    To produce the "Taiyin Jade Essence," she would need to maintain her purity until reaching mid-tote Core Formation, requiring her full cooperation.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t tell her the actual purpose of the Taiyin Jade Essence.


    "This is not difficult. Wenyue is willing..."


    Xia Wenyue agreed without a second thought, not even questioning the reasons behind it.


    "Not difficult?" Lan Chang''an chuckled inwardly.


    Even with an earth spiritual root¡¯s cultivation speed, it would take Xia Wenyue over a hundred years to reach mid-tote Core Formation.


    Even immortals are subject to emotions and desires.


    Cultivators, at their core, are still human. To suppress all such urges for over a century would be no easy feat.


    "I, Xia Wenyue, hereby swear..."


    Quickly, Xia Wenyue took the heart demon oath, feeling an odd sense of relief.


    This agreement meant that, aside from the one thing he requested, Master Lan would ce no further restrictions on her life.


    This demand was far less than what she had expected.


    Lan Chang''an, of course, had thought this through carefully.


    ...


    A wait spanning over a hundred years would be filled with countless uncertainties.


    Following the typical path, Lan Chang''an would need to adopt a "nurturing" approach, providing resources and protection to guide Xia Wenyue to the midte stages of Core Formation.


    But Lan Chang''an already had two spiritual pets to care for. His life wasn¡¯t easy, and he didn¡¯t want to take on another burden.


    Besides, Xia Wenyue was extraordinarily beautiful, gifted with a peerless innate Dao Physique. She would undoubtedly attract attention and trouble as she grew stronger.


    Lan Chang''an had no desire to constantly clean up after her.


    Even without the Taiyin Jade Essence, he had hopes of reaching the Nascent Soul Realm in this lifetime.


    "In short, the investment is high, the risks are great, and the potential reward is uncertain..."


    Thus, Lan Chang''an ultimately dismissed the idea of nurturing her himself.


    If he were to take that route, the best option would be to make her his Dao Companion.


    Otherwise, with her superior talent, she might surpass him in cultivation by the time she reachedte Core Formation, which could alter her perspective.


    And beyond that, nurturing an extraordinary beauty by his side for over a hundred years without being able to touch her... was hardly appealing.


    "Today, I simply nt a seed, and let her grow on her own..."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s n was to assist Xia Wenyue only in the initial stages of her cultivation, offering asional guidance.


    This way, his investment would remain minimal.


    As long as she didn¡¯t meet an untimely end, Xia Wenyue should at least reach the level he attained in his previous life, and likely at a faster pace.


    Even if she changed her mind in the future, he wouldn¡¯t mind negotiating terms or earning a favor from a peak Core Formation cultivator.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''anpleted the treatment.


    This time, he secretly used the Evergreen Technique, expending a slight amount of his lifespan.


    Curing Xia Wenyue¡¯s condition entirely would cost him only one or two months of lifespan¡ªa negligible amountpared to his five hundred years of lifespan, far less taxing than some other techniques.


    As always, he nned to treat her gradually over a long period, ensuring his actions wouldn¡¯t draw undue attention.


    "This time, the nurturing treatment felt even more refreshing," Xia Wenyue remarked, noticing the unusual sensation.


    Looking at the pale, slightly sweating Lan Chang''an, her heart stirred with gratitude.


    Silently, Xia Wenyue resolved to repay him in the future.


    "You¡¯ve reached the eighthyer Qi-Refining; your progress is impressive, and your health has greatly improved. However, the technique you¡¯re using is unsuited to your innate Dao Physique¡ªit¡¯s a terrible waste."


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an handed her a jade slip.


    "From now on, cultivate with this technique."


    "Thank you, Master Lan."


    Xia Wenyue ced the jade slip on her forehead and discovered it contained a cold-attribute technique called the "Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll," which could be cultivated up to thete stages of Core Formation.


    This technique was something Lan Chang''an had obtained in his previous life in Great Kun, supposedly from a destroyed Nascent Soul sect from long ago, with no lingering ties or disputes.


    The "Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll" was powerful but had high requirements for talent and bone structure, and it was iplete.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t been able to use it due to his ipatible spiritual root and only acquired it after reaching Core Formation, making it nearly useless to him.


    "The Great Kun of my past life and the Great Qing of this one both exist on the Heaven Honoured Continent, but they are separated by an unknown distance¡­"


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t worried about this technique revealing anything about him.


    ...


    A monthter.


    In the skies above a mountain range in southern Jing Kingdom.


    A team of merchant guild cultivators maneuvered a convoy of flying carriages through the clouds.


    In the world of cultivators,rge-scale transportation of goods still required caravans, and guards were indispensable.


    Massive amounts of goods couldn¡¯t be carried solely with storage pouches.


    After all, cultivators¡¯ storage pouches didn¡¯t have independent spaces.


    The spaces within ordinary storage pouches were only about the size of a regr room, limiting both volume and weight.


    Weight, especially, was a constraint.


    Although the bag¡¯s formations could reduce the weight significantly, it still required considerable strength from the cultivator carrying it.


    If a Foundation Establishment cultivator filled several storage pouches with a million pounds of iron ore, even with weight-reducing formations, they wouldn¡¯t be able to fly.


    Moreover, it would drastically slow down travel speed.


    "Liu Immortal, unidentified cultivators spotted ahead."


    A canyon appeared in view, prompting the convoy to slow down as guards surrounded it, ready for anything.


    "Hmph! How brazen, openly ambushing a Snow Fox Merchant Association convoy."


    Inside the central, ornate carriage, an elder in green robes snorted coldly, his voice rumbling like thunder through the sky.


    This green-robed elder was the Fake Dan cultivator tasked with protecting the convoy.


    Ahead, six or seven figures with bronze masks emerged from the clouds.


    Though they were outnumbered, each was at least in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, and the leader emitted the unmistakable aura of a Fake Dan cultivator, fearlessly matching their opponent¡¯s pressure.


    The Liu Immortal in the carriage felt an uneasy chill run down his spine, as if a powerful spiritual sense had scanned him.


    Realizing the enemycked a clear advantage yet boldly ambushed them, he sensed things might not go well.


    Just as a bloody battle seemed imminent, the six or seven figures in the lead seemed to receive amand and reluctantly retreated.


    It left everyone feeling baffled by the anticlimactic retreat.


    In the valley below, within a dense forest.


    A Core Formation female cultivator with flowing purple hair and a proud, curvaceous figure stood gracefully, like an orchid blooming in a secluded valley.


    She had been watching the convoy, but suddenly her expression turned grim, feeling a bone-chilling aura rising from beneath her feet.


    It was the aura of a Great Demon at the Core Formation level, potentially stronger than her.


    "Snow Fox Merchant Association, it seems, has earned the favor and protection of a third-rank Great Demon."


    Fu Xuemei remained expressionless, deciding not to attack.


    A third-rank monster concealed underground was staring at her, creating a standoff.


    Due to theyers of rock between them and the istion of the demon¡¯s demonic aura, her spiritual sense couldn¡¯t prate to see its appearance.


    After a while, the monster finally withdrew.


    "The elder of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, Elder Huang, promised to provide information on how to revive my ¡®Huang Dragon Beast¡¯ in exchange for my help in this mission," Fu Xuemei sighed in relief.


    ording to the agreement, she wasn¡¯t supposed to fight a Core Formation expert, only to kill or severely injure the lead Fake Dan cultivator.


    She hadn¡¯t joined the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, but this was a one-time coboration.


    To recruit her formally, they would have to bring her Huang Dragon Beast back to life.


    Unfortunately, even the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, renowned for beast-taming, had no solution for this.


    Luckily, Elder Huang of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association imed to know a way to revive the Huang Dragon Beast.


    ...


    Several hundred zhang beneath the rockyers.


    Ayer of earth-yellow light enveloped a man and a rat.


    The fully-grown Earth Burrowing Rat was about two zhang long and could serve as a mount, though it wasn¡¯t nearly asfortable as the Profound Water Turtle.


    The rat burrowed through the earth in jerky movements that would make an ordinary cultivator dizzy.


    "Repaying my first favor to the Snow Fox Merchant Association turned out to be quite easy."


    "I didn¡¯t expect that the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association would invite Fu Xuemei for this..."


    Lan Chang''an was slightly surprised but not shocked.


    Over the years, due to the ongoing war, many cultivators from the Liang Kingdom had migrated to Jing Kingdom.


    There were few Core Formation cultivators among them, and Fu Xuemei was one of the rare ones.


    Back then, the copse of the Huanglong Mountain had the silent approval of the me Departing Pce. Naturally, Fu Xuemei wouldn¡¯t remain in the Liang Kingdom to help the sects fend off the invasion of the Golden Sun Sect faction.


    Having cultivated in the Jing Kingdom for over a decade, Lan Chang''an had heard rumors.


    It was said that severalrge merchant guilds had tried to recruit Fu Xuemei, but none had seeded.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s past grudges with Fu Xuemei had long been resolved.


    He wasn¡¯t particrly concerned about her reappearance.


    As the war dragged on, it was likely that more familiar faces from Liang Kingdom would cross his path.


    After safely escorting the Snow Fox Merchant Association''s convoy to its destination, Lan Chang''an began his journey back.


    On his return, he stopped by the Cloudsmoke Immortal City and collected his reward of third-rank beast pills from the Snow Fox Merchant Association''s branch.


    ...


    Back on Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an dedicated part of his time to cultivation and asionally guided Xia Wenyue in her training.


    Her previous cultivation method had no specific attribute, making it easy to transition to the "Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll."


    With this new cold attribute technique, Xia Wenyue¡¯s cultivation speed increased significantly.


    Lan Chang''an estimated her speed now surpassed that of an ordinary earth spiritual root.


    Not only that, but her cold-based magical power and the potency of her spells were stronger than described in the "Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll."


    "Truly worthy of an innate Dao Physique, a favored child of the Great Dao."


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a hint of envy, even a tinge of bitterness.


    Not only was her cultivation speed extraordinary, but her magical power and abilities were further enhanced by her special constitution, putting her strength beyond others at the same level.


    It was enough to drive anyone to frustration.


    If Xia Wenyue were fortunate, her future potential would be unimaginable.


    There mighte a day when Lan Chang''an himself would need to rely on her support.


    ...


    In the blink of an eye, a year and a half passed.


    While Xia Wenyue made rapid progress, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t been idle.


    After cultivating at the seventh level of Foundation Establishment for fifteen years, he finally advanced another level.

 Chapter 242: An Old Acquaintance from the Liang Kingdom

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    "One hundred and fifty-five years old, eighth level of Foundation Establishment."


    Lan Chang''an felt the powerfulke of mana within him, having expanded by about thirty percent.


    Since this wasn''t a breakthrough to a new minor realm, the "quality" of his magical power hadn¡¯t changed, so his strength hadn''t improved significantly. He had simply progressed further within thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    "At this rate, I should reach the ninth level of Foundation Establishment by around age one hundred and seventy," Lan Chang''an spected.


    In theory, Foundation Establishment cultivators could attempt Core Formation once they reached the ninth level. However, most cultivators would strive to stabilize their Foundation at the peak of the ninth level, spending at least two to three years to maximize their chances of sess.


    Back then, Fu Xuemei had rushed into Core Formation shortly after reaching the ninth level without taking the time to consolidate her foundation. Thisck of preparation affected the quality of her final Core. Even so, due to her earth spiritual root, she managed to form a True Dan after some mental fortitude and adjustments.


    But Lan Chang''an''s situation was different.


    He nned to take a unique path of "Core Melting and Reformation," aiming to shatter and reform his Core¡ªa process that required extreme care and wasn¡¯t to be undertaken lightly.For his first attempt at Core Formation, he didn¡¯t need to push for a perfected Foundation Establishment. If his Core was too high in quality, it would only increase the difficulty and risk of shattering itter on. To y it safe, it would be best to follow Zhang Tieshan''s example and form a Fake Dan initially.


    ...


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an emerged from seclusion and made his way through an underground tunnel to the bottom of the deep pool behind his residence.


    He first checked on the growth of the Xuanmu Vine.


    The vine showed almost no signs of growth, and the small fruit on it was withered, turning yellowish-ck and lifeless.


    "It seems that the ''Xuantian Gourd'' mentioned in the records of Tinghai Pavilion has failed to fully form..."


    Even Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen Technique was powerless to save it. He had tried expending some of his lifespan to nourish the withered fruit, but it was like a stone sinking into the sea, with no response at all.


    Fortunately, the life force of the vine itself had stabilized, and a small segment of green on the vine was even more vibrant than before.


    Compared to the almostpletely withered state it was in when he first found it in the ancient ruins, its current condition was a considerable improvement.


    Lan Chang''an then turned to the Profound Water Turtle nearby, feeding it his Evergreen mana to promote its growth.


    Over the years, the Profound Water Turtle had diligently guarded the gourd vine, watering it regrly, and thus rarely came to absorb Lan Chang''an¡¯s excess spiritual energy during his cultivation sessions. Lan Chang''an suspected that the Xuanmu Vine provided some sort of benefit that the Profound Water Turtle found more desirable than his Evergreen Technique.


    Under thebined effects of the Evergreen spiritual power and the gourd vine, the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s growth had far outpaced that of its peers.


    Normally, a Profound Water Turtle would require four to five hundred years to reach the True Dan stage. Lan Chang''an estimated that his turtle would likely reach that stage in half the time.


    "As a creature with earth-grade bloodline, this turtle¡¯s potential far surpasses that of the Earth Burrowing Rat. Plus, with the unknown benefits from the gourd vine, who knows what quality of Core it might eventually form?" Lan Chang''an mused with anticipation.


    He returned to his estate.


    Xia Wenyue was waiting outside the door, seeking an audience.


    "Come in," Lan Chang''an waved, opening the door.


    Xia Wenyue entered with a respectful bow, saying, "Master Lan, a n member has just sent word that a Foundation Establishment cultivator is here to visit you outside Qingsha Bay."


    "Did they give their name?"


    "No, they¡¯ve concealed their appearance," Xia Wenyue replied.


    Lan Chang''an was about to refuse.


    "The visitor ims to be an old friend from the Liang Kingdom," Xia Wenyue quickly added.


    "An old friend from the Liang Kingdom?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment before nodding and instructing Xia Wenyue to bring the visitor in.


    In that brief pause, he had sent the Earth Burrowing Rat to investigate and had detected a familiar aura.


    The visitor was indeed an old acquaintance with whom he shared a certain level of friendship.


    ...


    A quarter of an hourter.


    Xia Wenyue returned, apanied by a wide-robed cultivator wearing a conical hat and a veil of green gauze.


    The figure¡¯s entire body was wrapped in their robe, making it difficult to discern their gender.


    Xia Wenyue tactfully withdrew, closing the side hall door behind her.


    Through the faint green gauze of the hat, Lan Chang''an caught a glimpse of a pair of dark eyes and smiled faintly. "Miss Shen, it¡¯s been twenty years. How have you been?" ?


    At his words, the figure in the wide robe froze briefly, then removed the conical hat and veil.


    Beneath the hat was the face of a woman, looking around thirty-seven or thirty-eight years old.


    Her features were still pleasant, but crow¡¯s feet had begun to appear around her eyes, and her once-fair skin was now marred with dark spots, her once-bright eyes now carrying a deep and quiet look that onlyes from years of experience.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a moment of surprise. It was difficult to reconcile the image of the gentle and beautiful woman he remembered with the "maturedy" standing before him now.


    "Talisman Master Lan, you must find thisughable. I am old and worn, married with children, hardly deserving of the title ''Miss'' anymore."


    Shen Bixin¡¯s voice was calm, though it carried a trace of bitterness and mncholy.


    "There¡¯s no need to dwell on appearances, Miss Shen. For us cultivators, external beauty is just a facade, nothing more," Lan Chang''an replied warmly, raising a hand to invite Shen Bixin to sit.


    Shen Bixin was the eldest daughter of the Tengxing Merchant Association from the Liang Kingdom and had once coborated with Lan Chang''an in business dealings.


    They first met when Jiang Yechen brought an unconscious Shen Bixin to Wuqi Mountain seeking treatment.


    Shen Bixin had once been in love with Jiang Yechen, but her elders at the merchant guild opposed their rtionship.


    In the end, she married Song Wenshu, a man with an impressive background tied to the me Departing Pce and a promising future.


    As Shen Bixin sat down, Lan Chang''an subtly observed her, noticing that her cultivation had stagnated at the peak ofte Foundation Establishment.


    "Her vitality is diminished, and her spiritual energy is stagnant."


    Lan Chang''an deduced that she had likely failed in her Core Formation attempt, suffering a bacsh that had severely injured her, weakening her foundation.


    Otherwise, with Shen Bixin¡¯s wealth, she would have been able to use Youth Retaining Pills to slow down her aging.


    This was actually a rtively fortunate oue.


    Some cultivators who fail at Core Formation die on the spot, while others experience a drastic drop in their cultivation level. Both oues are not umon.


    In truth, Shen Bixin had decent talent and a more advantageous background than the average cultivator.


    By rights, forming a Fake Dan should not have been too difficult for her.


    At least from Lan Chang''an''s perspective, she seemed to have a better chance than Fairy Shi when she hadn''t yet be a third-rank formation master.


    But the cultivation world is unpredictable, and sess is never guaranteed. Failure is simply part of the risk.


    "How has Fellow Daoist Song been?" Lan Chang''an changed the topic to avoid poking at Shen Bixin¡¯s past failure.


    Song Wenshu, as an elite of me Departing Pce, was well-connected, and Lan Chang''an had some acquaintance with him.


    "Wenshu¡­ he died in the cultivation war a few years ago."


    Shen Bixin¡¯s gaze dimmed, her face filled with sorrow.


    "Song Wenshu... died in battle?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression faltered. He hadn¡¯t intended to bring up such a painful topic.


    The war in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world had imed many lives.


    Numerous True Dan and Fake Dan cultivators had perished.


    Foundation Establishment cultivators were hardly noteworthy among the casualties unless they were personally known.


    As a result, Lan Chang''an was only now learning of Song Wenshu¡¯s death.


    "When did youe to Jing Kingdom, Fellow Daoist Shen?"


    "My merchant guild, the Tengxing Merchant Association, had already started relocating some of its direct lineage and assets to Jing Kingdom before the war in the Liang Kingdom broke out¡­ Three years ago, I brought my husband¡¯s remains and our children with the guild¡¯s core members to establish ourselves here."


    Shen Bixin recounted her story from recent years.


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly. The Tengxing Merchant Association had made preparations in advance, setting up contacts and businesses in Jing Kingdom.


    With that, it was easier for them to facilitate the relocation of cultivators from the Liang Kingdom.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Shen, you concealed your identity to visit me today. Surely, it isn¡¯t just to catch up, is it?"


    Half an hourter, after learning about Shen Bixin¡¯s turbulent life over the past twenty years, Lan Chang''an finally got to the main point.


    "Talisman Master Lan, do you still remember the favor you owe me from back then?"


    Shen Bixin looked him in the eye.


    "Of course."


    Lan Chang''an nodded without hesitation.


    He did indeed owe Shen Bixin a favor.


    Back in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, he needed a batch of materials, including rare third-rank items, to speed up his body refinement. Shen Bixin¡¯s guild had helped him gather the resources.


    At the time, Shen Bixin hadn¡¯t requested any payment from Lan Chang''an, asking only for a promise in return.


    "Talisman Master Lan, I knew you were a man of integrity," Shen Bixin said, showing a rare smile.


    "So, are you here to redeem that favor today, Fellow Daoist Shen?"


    "No, I¡¯m not at a dead end yet. I only mentioned it to verify Talisman Master Lan¡¯s character," Shen Bixin replied, her tone serious. "This time, I¡¯m here on behalf of someone else. What I¡¯m about to discuss must remain confidential, whether or not anythinges of it."


    Sensing the gravity of the situation, Lan Chang''an activated an istion barrier around them.


    They exchanged a long conversation through sound transmission, their lips constantly moving.


    "The grandson of Elder Wang from me Departing Pce, Wang Feng?"


    Lan Chang''an was surprised but kept a straight face.


    It turned out that the "Young Master Wang" who had snuck across the border years ago was actually named Wang Feng, a prized talent with an earth spiritual root nurtured by me Departing Pce.


    Wang Feng''s grandfather, Elder Wang, was one of the top three powerholders in me Departing Pce, with a cultivation at the peak ofte Core Formation Realm.


    Elder Wang''s strength was certainly beyond what Lan Chang''an had achieved in his previous life. Wang Feng had once been acquainted with Song Wenshu, who had eagerly sought his friendship.


    Having married into the me Departing Pce, Shen Bixin had also met Wang Feng once or twice.


    A few months ago, the now Foundation Establishment-level "Young Master Wang" sought her out for assistance.


    He had two requests:


    First, to use the connections of a local merchant guild in the Jing Kingdom to return to me Departing Pce in the Liang Kingdom.


    Second, to find a skilled healer to help him recover from the hidden injuries he¡¯d suffered during his cultivation decline.


    If she could help him, Wang Feng promised generous rewards and even the possibility of a favor from ate-stage Core Formation Immortal in me Departing Pce.


    "My guild is not well-established in Jing Kingdom; we¡¯re barely getting by and face pressure from hostile forces. I simply cannot fulfill either of Young Master Wang¡¯s requests," Shen Bixin exined.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze flickered. He sensed Shen Bixin¡¯s ulterior motive.


    With her husband, Song Wenshu, having ties to me Departing Pce, Shen Bixin no doubt wanted to use her connections with Wang Feng and Elder Wang for the benefit of her descendants.


    Certainly, the current war was not going in favor of me Departing Pce.


    But even if they lost and withdrew from Liang Kingdom, a Nascent Soul-level sect like me Departing Pce still had a foundation far exceeding that of smaller sects like Jin Yun Valley.


    "Important figures like Elder Wang and Young Master Wang... I¡¯m afraid they¡¯re a bit out of my reach," Lan Chang''an replied, declining politely.


    Shen Bixin was merely a mediator in this matter, so he wasn¡¯t bound to repay his favor just yet.


    He didn¡¯tck spirit stones or techniques, and he already had everything he needed for Core Formation. He had no interest in currying favor with Elder Wang or Young Master Wang.


    Moreover, given that Wang Feng had been hunted by the demonic sect in the past, there were risks involved.


    "Young Master Wang mentioned that if Talisman Master Lan agrees to help, part of his reward will include a piece of third-rank superior-grade spiritual bamboo," Shen Bixin added.


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an¡¯s interest was piqued.


    Even in his past life as a Core Formation cultivator, obtaining third-rank superior-grade spiritual bamboo was no easy feat.


    At thergest auction in the Liang Kingdom, he had once managed to acquire some third-rank mid-grade spiritual wood, but he wasn''t sure about crafting third-rank treasure talismans at that time. He still had that wood stored away.


    A treasure talisman that started from third-rank, if properly nurtured, would have immeasurable power.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation technique was wood-based, and superior-grade spiritual bamboo would be an excellent material for crafting a powerful wood-element magical treasure.


    "If Talisman Master Lan is interested, please go to the Xunxian Residence in Cloudsmoke Immortal City within the next half month¡­ Young Master Wang will meet you in person."


    "Alright, I¡¯ll consider it."


    Lan Chang''an gave no direct promise.


    He was curious about how Wang Feng, whom he hadst seen in such a sorry state, could now offer such a generous reward.


    ...


    After discussing the serious matters, the atmosphere rxed, and the two chatted about old times.


    Years ago, the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain¡ªLan Chang''an, Fairy Shi, and Ye Fei¡ªall had a good rapport with Shen Bixin and shared business dealings.


    Back then, Shen Bixin was gentle and elegant, even catching the eye of Little Pill Peak¡¯s Ye Fei.


    "By the way, how is Fellow Daoist Jiang?" Lan Chang''an suddenly thought of Jiang Yechen, the man Shen Bixin had truly loved.


    Jiang Yechen possessed a rare soul-path treasure. If not for his help, Fairy Shi wouldn¡¯t have regained her memories, and Lan Chang''an and her might have missed out on a significant opportunity in the ancient ruins.


    At the very least, Fairy Shi wouldn¡¯t have be a third-rank formation master as smoothly.


    "Jiang Yechen¡­ I no longer have the right to see him," Shen Bixin said, her face downcast, the once-delicate skin now marked with lines of worry.


    Lan Chang''an detected a hint of something off.


    Shen Bixin hadn¡¯t said "I don¡¯t have the face to see him," but rather, there was a trace of lingering regret and sorrow in her tone.


    "A few years ago, he achieved True Dan and turned down invitations from the various major sects of the Liang Kingdom. He has since gone on a journey to other countries¡­"


    "Jiang Yechen reached True Dan?"


    Lan Chang''an was visibly moved and looked at Shen Bixin.


    He quickly pieced it together.


    Years ago, Shen Bixin had given up on her true love, Jiang Yechen, to marry Song Wenshu, who had a promising background.


    In the end, Song Wenshu died in battle, leaving Shen Bixin a widow.


    Meanwhile, the once-rebellious and dismissed Jiang Yechen had actually achieved True Dan!


    And interestingly...


    Jiang Yechen¡¯s breakthrough to True Dan and Song Wenshu¡¯s death both seemed to have urred around the same time.


    Jiang Yechen was the first of Lan Chang''an¡¯s old acquaintances in this life to sessfully reach True Dan.


    Although their friendship wasn¡¯t deep.


    There was also Zhang Tieshan, but there had been no news of him for years.


    The difficulty of forming a True Dan was far higher than that of a Fake Dan.


    In many immortal cities, Fake Dan cultivators weremon, but True Dan cultivators were rare.


    ...


    Soon, Shen Bixin, visibly downcast, took her leave.


    Lan Chang''an understood; he had inadvertently reopened an old wound for her.


    He hadn¡¯t done it on purpose, though.


    How could he have known that Shen Bixin¡¯s life over the past twenty years had been so tumultuous?


    "Take care, Fellow Daoist Shen."


    Lan Chang''an watched as Shen Bixin¡¯s thin figure, concealed by her loose robes and green gauze veil, flew away from Autumnwind Isle.


    She had concealed her identity for this visit, likely out of concern that matters involving Wang Feng might implicate Lan Chang''an.


    ording to her, Wang Feng had been heavily pursued in the past. Although the merchant guilds hadn''t issued an official bounty, some factions secretly cooperated with the demonic sect''s actions.


    In recent years, however, the pursuit had subsided, giving him room to breathe as he restored much of his cultivation.


    Seven dayster.


    Lan Chang''an publicly announced that he would be going into seclusion, leaving an "Illusory Truth Talisman" projection in his secluded chamber to simte his aura.


    Using the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s earth-burrowing ability, he discreetly left the Xia Family¡¯s territory in Qingsha Bay without anyone noticing.


    If it had been before the Earth Burrowing Rat reached the third-rank, Lan Chang''an would have avoided meeting with Wang Feng under his real identity.


    After all, this involved high-ranking figures from the Liang Kingdom.


    But now he felt fewer qualms.


    With the allure of third-rank superior-grade spiritual bamboo, he didn''t mind meeting with Wang Feng.


    ...


    In Cloudsmoke Immortal City, at the Xunxian Residence.


    This was the ce where Lan Chang''an had first encountered the fallen "Young Master Wang" in Jing Kingdom.


    At the time, Wang Feng hadn¡¯t known Lan Chang''an''s real identity.


    The inn''s formation barrier could at most obstruct the spiritual sense of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    But with his Nine Seal Stele and the aid of his soul imprint from his past life, Lan Chang''an''s True Dan-level spiritual sense quickly saw through the setup.


    "It seems this Wang Feng has learned caution after being hunted for so long."


    Lan Chang''an noticed that in the room they had arranged for the meeting, Wang Feng had left a false projection talisman.


    The real Wang Feng was disguised as a servant, discreetly watching the room from a distance.


    Lan Chang''an confirmed that there were no ambushes near the inn.


    The highest-ranked cultivator in the inn was a Fake Dan, currently "entertaining" a pair of twin female cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t follow Wang Feng¡¯s cautious steps.


    Instead, he rented an upper-level private room in the inn and then approached Wang Feng directly, summoning him to his own room.


    "Boy,e to this grandpa¡¯s room and give me a massage! Do a good job, and I¡¯ll reward you with spirit stones."


    Disguised as a burly, bearded man, Lan Chang''an tugged at the bemused Wang Feng, who was ying the role of a servant.


    Nearby servants and maids looked on in horror as the bearded man dragged the thin-armed, slim Wang Feng into his private suite.


    The upper-level rooms in the Xunxian Residence were private, standalone buildings with their own courtyards.


    Inside the main room, Lan Chang''an and Wang Feng faced each other.


    "Sir, you are¡­?"


    "Yes, I¡¯m the one you¡¯re looking for."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s aura shifted, revealing his true appearance.


    "I am Wang Feng, honored to meet Talisman Master Lan," Wang Feng said, removing his headscarf and bowing. His face blurred momentarily, revealing the features of a handsome, sharp-faced young man.


    It was a stark contrast from the arrogant, slick-haired youth on the spirit ship of Jiuchen Merchant Association all those years ago.


    Back then, he had concealed his true appearance, even using a fake surname.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t know what Wang Feng¡¯s original appearance was, but after years of hardship, his personality had likely changed.


    "Young Master Wang, there¡¯s one thing I¡¯m curious about," Lan Chang''an said, maintaining his calm and observing Wang Feng¡¯s condition.


    "Please, Talisman Master Lan, ask away."


    Wang Feng¡¯s attitude was respectful, devoid of any arrogance befitting the grandson of a me Departing Pce elder.


    "I heard from Fellow Daoist Shen that you intend to return to me Departing Pce in Liang Kingdom. But given the chaos and danger in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, this doesn¡¯t seem like a wise choice."


    From Lan Chang''an¡¯s perspective, he would certainly avoid returning to Liang Kingdom unless absolutely necessary.


    Wang Fengughed heartily, "Talisman Master Lan speaks wisely! In fact, just recently, I¡¯ve changed my mind. I¡¯ve decided not to return to Liang Kingdom!"

 Chapter 243: Critical Intelligence

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Wang Feng¡¯s unexpected response left Lan Chang''an feeling suspicious. He didn¡¯t believe that Wang Feng would alter his original n on a whim simply because of an offhand remark.


    Returning to the Liang Kingdom wasn¡¯t easy; it came with significant risks and must have required firm resolve.


    To change his mind so abruptly seemed almost frivolous.


    ¡°If Talisman Master Lan can assist me, then as a token of gratitude, I¡¯ll freely share an important piece of intelligence,¡± Wang Feng said, a mysterious smile ying on his lips, piquing Lan Chang''an¡¯s curiosity.


    Recalling Wang Feng''s previousments, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but specte. Clearly, Wang Feng had done his homework before approaching him, thoroughly researching his abilities and preferences.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have offered such a tempting reward in the form of third-rank spiritual bamboo, knowing it would catch Lan Chang''an''s interest.


    ¡°Is the issue that concerns you the hidden injuries affecting your foundation?¡± Lan Chang''an asked directly.


    Shen Bixin had briefly mentioned this before, and Lan Chang''an had observed Wang Feng¡¯s condition upon their meeting.However, from his earlier inspection, Wang Feng¡¯s vitality and physical state seemed robust, without any obvious abnormalities.


    ¡°Over a decade ago, while traveling to Jing Kingdom on a spirit ship, I was ambushed by demonic cultivators. My cultivation level fell drastically, causing extensive damage to my body,¡± Wang Feng recounted with a hint of bitterness.


    ¡°Since then, I¡¯ve consumed various rare elixirs and potent medicinal herbs, which healed my injuries and restored my cultivation to Foundation Establishment level. But the hidden wounds affecting my foundation were never fully repaired.¡±


    ¡°As of today, my cultivation speed has dropped to that of a high-grade spiritual root,¡± he said, clearly unhappy with the limitations imposed by his condition.


    ¡°I¡¯m not a specialized alchemist, nor am I a famous healer. Why would Young Master Wang seek my help specifically?¡± Lan Chang''an asked with a smile.


    ¡°There are two reasons.¡±


    ¡°First, Talisman Master Lan has a reputation for integrity; you are widely respected.¡±


    Wang Feng was still under threat in the Jing Kingdom, and he didn¡¯t trust the local alchemists or doctors, fearing they might expose his identity.


    ¡°Second, from what I understand, Talisman Master Lan has unique expertise in health preservation, especially in the realm of nurturing and restoring hidden injuries. In this regard, you are no less capable than any renowned healer.¡±


    It seemed that seeking out Lan Chang''an was ast resort for Wang Feng, with Shen Bixin¡¯s rmendation also ying a role.


    ¡°I see,¡± Lan Chang''an said, unsurprised.


    Over the years, those observant enough had noticed his exceptional skill in nurturing and healing.


    Shen Bixin herself had experienced his medical abilities firsthand, and she had intuitively recognized that Lan Chang''an¡¯s healing arts were extraordinary.


    Moreover, both Mu Bingyun and Xia Wenyue had shown remarkable progress after long-term care under Lan Chang''an''s unique methods.


    However, this kind of nurturing took years, even decades. The gradual, subtle progress meant that, even when the oue was sessful, it didn¡¯t draw excessive attention from surrounding cultivators.


    Some spiritual treasures or third-rank alchemists could produce simr effects in less time.


    This skill had its limitations andcked strategic significance. To the major powers, Lan Chang''an¡¯s abilities in this area were far less attractive than those of a high-level alchemist or formation master.


    ...


    ¡°Your condition is somewhatplex, Young Master Wang. I¡¯ll need to examine your pulse and gain a deeper understanding,¡± Lan Chang''an said, stepping fully into the role of healer.


    Wang Feng was trusting, allowing Lan Chang''an to examine him and answering all questions regarding his symptoms without reservation.


    ¡°It seems your illness went untreated for several years, causing a dy in healing?¡± Lan Chang''an said, frowning slightly as he finished taking Wang Feng¡¯s pulse.


    ¡°Yes! During those years, I lost my storage pouch, leaving me destitute and without ess to medicinal elixirs. My injuries festered over time,¡± Wang Feng replied, casting a respectful look at Lan Chang''an.


    The specifics of this misfortune were something he hadn¡¯t shared with Shen Bixin, and there was no collusion involved.


    Wang Feng had no idea that Lan Chang''an, under a different identity, had encountered him before at this very inn.


    Lost his storage pouch?


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s interest was piqued; his question had been a subtle probe.


    As the grandson of a peak Core Formation Elder, Wang Feng¡¯s journey into a neighboring country for refuge likely included some of Elder Wang¡¯s assets.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an himself had been at the peak of Core Formation and understood well the level of wealth that status entailed.


    A Nascent Soul sect elder¡¯s wealth was on a whole different scale. Even with simr cultivation, their assets would far surpass what Lan Chang''an could have amassed in his previous life.


    If Wang Feng had carried even a tenth of Elder Wang¡¯s wealth, he would still be wealthier than an average True Dan cultivator. It made sense that the demonic sect would have targeted him.


    In reality, during his years on the run, Wang Feng had hidden his storage pouch in a secret location to keep it out of demonic hands. After lying low for a few years, he returned to retrieve it once he regained some of his cultivation.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, is my condition very severe?¡± Wang Feng asked, noticing Lan Chang''an¡¯s serious expression. Even as a direct disciple of me Departing Pce, he couldn¡¯t help but feel nervous and anxious.


    High-grade spiritual roots were considered exceptional by most cultivators, but for a heaven''s pride like Wang Feng, who aspired to condense a Golden Dan Dao Charm when he reached Core Formation¡ªor even ascend to the Nascent Soul Realm¡ªthis setback was intolerable.


    Even if he couldn¡¯t form a perfect Golden Core, he at least wanted toe close to that threshold, aiming to gather Dao Rhythms during Core Formation.


    ¡°Due to the dy in treatment, your dantian suffered micro-tears that have resulted insting, destructive damage,¡± Lan Chang''an exined gravely.


    He needed to emphasize the severity of Wang Feng¡¯s condition to justify the value of the third-rank superior-grade spiritual wood.


    In truth, Wang Feng¡¯s condition wasn¡¯t as dire as he made it sound; it was actually better than Lan Chang''an had expected.


    He suspected that Wang Feng, after retrieving his storage pouch, had consumed some invaluable spiritual treasures to heal himself.


    If he sought a third-rank healer, he could fully recover within ten years. With the right third-rank herbs, the process could be even faster.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, if you can help me recover, in addition to the spiritual bamboo and the intelligence I promised, I¡¯ll also owe you a personal favor,¡± Wang Feng offered.


    ¡°A favor?¡± Lan Chang''an would have preferred more concrete benefits.


    After all, not everyone was as honorable as he, who always kept his word.


    ¡°If I ever rise to the upper ranks of me Departing Pce, this promise will remain valid,¡± Wang Feng said confidently.


    Lan Chang''an chuckled inwardly. This young man certainly knew how to dangle a tempting prospect.


    In ordinary times, with Wang Feng¡¯s talent and background, his rise to a high position in me Departing Pce would be almost guaranteed.


    But the current war had thrown me Departing Pce¡¯s fate into uncertainty.


    Of course, even if me Departing Pce¡ªa Nascent Soul-level sect¡ªwere to lose the war,plete annihtion was unlikely.


    Receiving the third-rank superior-grade spiritual wood had already achieved Lan Chang''an¡¯s goal. A potentially valuable favor was just an added bonus.


    ...


    Two hourster, Lan Chang''an withdrew his hand from Wang Feng¡¯s waist, wiping sweat from his brow and appearing pale, as if he had exhausted a great deal of energy.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, thank you for your efforts,¡± Wang Feng said with a hint of respect.


    He had to admit that Lan Chang''an¡¯s nurturing treatment had indeed shown results.


    The sense of blockage in his dantian had noticeably lessened, even if just slightly.


    In reality, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t depleted his lifespan or employed his Evergreen Technique to an excessive degree.


    The Evergreen Technique¡¯s healing properties were excellent for nurturing and restoring, and as Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation level and lifespan grew, its effects improved.


    He only pretended to be fatigued and depleted from using a mysterious technique.


    In truth, the Evergreen mana was gentle and enduring; he could continue the treatment for hours without strain.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, I¡¯ll split the ¡®Tong Ghost Bamboo¡¯ in half. Here¡¯s your advance payment,¡± Wang Feng said, producing a half-section of deep blue spiritual bamboo, about nine feet long and as thick as an arm.


    Lan Chang''an took the piece, quickly verifying its spiritual quality. Satisfied, he epted it and nned to further nurture it with Evergreen mana.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, how long will it take for me to fully recover?¡± Wang Feng asked eagerly.


    Currently, his cultivation level had yet to return to the mid-Foundation Establishment stage of his peak.


    ¡°It would normally take ten years. Since the secret method I use depletes my vitality, I can only perform it once a year without affecting my own cultivation.¡±


    ¡°With a few third-rank herbs I rmended, the process could be sped up,¡± Lan Chang''an added.


    In truth, he couldplete the treatment in a single session if he sacrificed some lifespan and fully unleashed his Evergreen Technique.


    But that would be excessive!


    Even a third-rank healer or alchemist would struggle to achieve such rapid results.


    Moreover, Wang Feng was no ordinary cultivator; as a me Departing Pce disciple, he was well-versed in high-level techniques.


    Using the full power of the Evergreen Technique might arouse suspicion.


    Wang Feng himself might not notice anything unusual, but his grandfather, Elder Wang, a peak Core Formation cultivator, would have a sharper eye.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an chose to take a measured approach, stretching out the treatment over a few years.


    ¡°How about we meet here at the Xunxian Residence every year for treatment? If anything unexpected happens, we can adjust as needed,¡± Wang Feng suggested.


    ¡°Very well,¡± Lan Chang''an agreed.


    The Xunxian Residence was the most prestigious inn in Cloudsmoke Immortal City, offering excellent security and privacy.


    Every year, he could visit to acquire resources and asionally engage in discussions with Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s Hanyu Immortal.


    ...


    Before parting, Wang Feng finally shared the critical intelligence:


    ¡°At most, within three years, the war in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world wille to an end!¡±


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but be taken aback.


    Currently, the war in the Liang Kingdom favored the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s alliance, which was steadily capturing spiritual veins and territories.


    However, me Departing Pce¡¯s deep foundations,bined with their geographical advantage and fourth-rank formations, made them difficult to conquer in a direct assault.


    As long as the Golden Sun Sect couldn¡¯t breach me Departing Pce, they wouldn¡¯t be able to truly dominate the Liang Kingdom.


    Lan Chang''an had experienced war in the cultivation world in his past life.


    One Nascent Soul-level sect had once held out behind a fourth-rank formation, consuming massive amounts of spirit stones, and it took decades of siege before they were finally breached.


    And yet, Wang Feng was now telling him that the war in the Liang Kingdom would end within three years.


    ¡°How will the war in the Liang Kingdom end?¡± Lan Chang''an pressed, curious.


    But Wang Feng didn¡¯t borate, perhaps not knowing the full details himself.


    He was simply certain that peace would be restored within three years.


    Lan Chang''an suspected the intelligence originated from me Departing Pce.


    me Departing Pce likely had spies nted in the Jing Kingdom. Wang Feng, through minor connections, could leverage these assets to his advantage, gaining some support within the Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    Back in Qingsha Bay, on Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an received thetest news on the Liang Kingdom¡¯s war from Young Master Xia.


    ¡°Jin Yun Valley has submitted to the Golden Sun Sect alliance?¡±


    Apart from this major change, the overall situation hadn¡¯t shifted significantlypared to previous years.


    While the Golden Sun Sect had seized two-thirds of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s spiritual veins, maintaining control over the upied territories required a sizable deployment of manpower.


    ¡°What¡¯s surprising is that Jin Yun Valley¡¯s surrender was met with leniency. Golden Sun Sect didn¡¯t engage in ughter or looting, nor did they disrupt the existing order or force Jin Yun Valley to oppose me Departing Pce.¡±


    Lan Chang''an felt a measure of relief, secretly hoping that the Zhao master and disciple from Jin Yun Valley were safe.


    Based on his experience, he deduced that Jin Yun Valley would have negotiated a neutral stance, choosing not to support either side openly.


    Why was the Golden Sun Sect so tolerant and benevolent?


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t make sense of it yet, but he woulde to understand the truth in the future.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    The Wufu Merchant Association received good news.


    n Leader Xia Hongyu had returned to the n¡¯s base in Qingsha Bay.


    As a Fake Dan cultivator, Xia Hongyu was like an anchor of stability for the Xia Family, calming the n members¡¯ nerves.


    Lan Chang''an quickly heard that Xia Hongyu had recently engaged in a formal duel with a Fake Dan cultivator from the Xinyue Merchant Association and won decisively.


    The Xinyue Merchant Association had two Fake Dan cultivators. The one Xia Hongyu fought was a younger Fake Dan who had advanced within thest thirty years¡ªa formidable opponent.


    The duel had been triggered by repeated shes between the two guilds over business interests, resulting in several casualties.


    At that point, the Merchant Alliance had intervened to mediate.


    Regardless of who started the conflict or who held the moral high ground, the alliance elders¡¯ usual method of resolution was to "smooth things over."


    Each side received equal me, inherently disadvantaging the victim.


    The Xinyue Merchant Association had exploited this, using various underhanded tactics to suppress and encroach on the Wufu Merchant Association¡¯s businesses.


    Unhappy with the mediation oue, the Wufu Merchant Association had protested.


    In the Merchant Alliance, many conflicts of interest that were difficult to arbitrate were settled throughbat trials. Each side would select a representative of equivalent cultivation level to determine the oue.


    Normally, the top cultivators of each guild wouldn¡¯t get involved directly.


    Unexpectedly, one of Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s Fake Dan cultivators confidently challenged Xia Hongyu.


    Xia Hongyu, having kept a low profile for thest century, was believed by many to be past his prime, with a mediocre fighting ability.


    However, Xia Hongyu exceeded all expectations, winning effortlessly and restoring some of the guild¡¯s reputation.


    Upon his return, he took steps to stabilize the Wufu Merchant Association, allowing the Xin Family a share of influence, thus steadying the guild¡¯s internal dynamics.


    The Xin Family had never truly intended to split away.


    Their ambiguous stance was merely a tactic to secure greater benefits by ying both sides.


    Furthermore, if no new Fake Dan cultivators emerged within the Xia Family, they could eventually wrest control of the guild as Xia Hongyu aged.


    ¡°Patriarch Xia, you truly bring honor to us cultivators who pursue longevity,¡± Lan Chang''an thought, admiring Xia Hongyu¡¯s performance.


    After his recent duel, Lan Chang''an observed that Xia Hongyu hadn¡¯t sustained any injuries, though he did seem slightly depleted in energy.


    Cultivators who focused on health and longevity were often not known for theirbat prowess.


    But with time on their side, these cultivators could umte hidden assets and powerful techniques, making them formidable.


    ¡°The Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s challenge was likely just a probe to gauge the Patriarch¡¯s strength. After suffering a loss this time, they won¡¯t let this go easily¡­¡±


    The more observant members of the Xia Family understood the underlying intentions behind the Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s challenge.


    ...


    A few months after n Leader Xia¡¯s return.


    Qingsha Bay received another piece of good news.


    The Xia Family¡¯s young master had sessfully advanced to thete stage of Foundation Establishment, and he had done so without relying on any breakthrough pills.


    The Xia Family celebrated the asion with a grand banquet.


    At under a hundred years old, Young Master Xia had achievedte-stage Foundation Establishment even earlier than Zhao Siyao had in her youth.


    This meant he had a good chance of forming a True Dan in the future. With the n¡¯s backing, at the very least, forming a Fake Dan shouldn¡¯t be too difficult.


    This advancement dashed the Xin Family¡¯s hopes of one day controlling the guild by outliving the current leadership.


    The attention on Young Master Xia¡¯s achievement overshadowed the fact that Xia Wenyue on Autumnwind Isle had quietly reached the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    In less than three years, Xia Wenyue had advanced from the eighth to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    More precisely, it had only taken her two and a half years.


    Lan Chang''an had even asked her to slow her progress slightly, iming publicly that it had taken three years.


    Such a cultivation speed was typical for those with earth spiritual roots, and Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t surprised.


    The spiritual sensitivity of lower grade roots ranged between twenty and forty, while earth-grade roots had a sensitivity above eighty.


    In the early stages of cultivation, earth-grade roots allowed for a pace over twice that of average cultivators.


    Her rapid progress couldn¡¯t remain hidden forever.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s stunning beauty and her ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivation were like a brilliant jade gradually drawing more attention within the n.


    After all, Xia Wenyue was only thirty-five or thirty-six years old.


    Without the hindrance of her frail health, she might even reach Foundation Establishment before forty, a feat on par with some sect elites.


    ...


    ¡°Wenyue, can¡¯t you be a little warmer? Even when you¡¯re cold, you¡¯re as beautiful as an ice fairy.¡±


    ¡°As long as you agree to attend thentern festival with me on the sixth, I promise I won¡¯t bother you again. Among our generation in the n, we¡¯re the highest-ranked. Who else couldpare?¡±


    At the edge of Autumnwind Isle, a fair-skinned young man with a round face smiled ingratiatingly as he watched Xia Wenyue busying herself in the herb garden.


    The girl in a in dress, slender and serene as snow, had a ssical beauty with a faint mist between her brows, lending her an ethereal and poetic charm.


    Watching her graceful figure, Xia Yuanjing felt his heart flutter, swallowing nervously.


    Throughout the Xia Family and even the entire Wufu Merchant Association, no other female cultivator matched her beauty and poise.


    What¡¯s more, Xia Wenyue seemed to have stabilized her condition and had steadily advanced to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Due to her health issues, it was unlikely that she could reach Foundation Establishment.


    But a stunning female cultivator at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining was enough to attract attention from some Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Xia Yuanjing himself was at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, about ten years older than Xia Wenyue, and was the son of a Foundation Establishment elder.


    He considered marrying a frail ninthyer Qi-Refining cultivator to be a generous gesture on his part.


    In a prominent cultivation family like the Xia Family, it wasmon for cousins or distant rtives to marry to keep talented women within the family.


    ¡°Xia Yuanjing, if you don¡¯t leave, I¡¯ll report this to Master Lan,¡± Xia Wenyue said coldly.


    Over the past few months, several male n members hade to Autumnwind Isle under the guise of procuring supplies, all hoping to court her.


    ¡°Master Lan is generous and indifferent to worldly affairs. As long as I don¡¯t disturb him at his residence, he won¡¯t mind,¡± Xia Yuanjing said with a smirk, unafraid of the ¡°gentle old man.¡±


    Outside the estate, Lan Chang''an emerged for a leisurely stroll and happened to witness the scene in the distance.


    ¡°Let him cool down a bit.¡±


    With a calm expression, Lan Chang''an issued a simplemand.


    At a hundred and fifty-six years of age, he had no intention of getting into a petty conflict with a youngster.


    ¡°Wenyue¡­ mmph¡­¡±


    Xia Yuanjing suddenly found himself unable to speak as ayer of yellow sand spread from his feet, encasing him entirely in an instant.


    Momentster, Autumnwind Isle gained a new statue¡ªa petrified, round-faced young man.


    ¡°Master Lan, I¡¯m sorry for causing you trouble,¡± Xia Wenyue said softly, her face slightly flushed as she looked toward the white-robed figure in the distance.


    ¡°When a beautiful jade begins to shine, situations like this will be more frequent. You must learn to handle them within the family,¡± Lan Chang''an advised calmly.


    He had long anticipated this, which was why he had no intention of keeping her tied to his side indefinitely.


    Imagine having to deal with such a troublesome figure for over a hundred years¡ªhow much unnecessary conflict would that invite?


    He had no qualms about Xia Wenyue entering the broader cultivation world¡¯s gaze.


    After all, this environment wasn¡¯t the best ce to nurture her potential.


    All he needed was to nt the seed now, and one day, he would harvest the fruit.


    The future gains were uncertain, but his investment was minimal.


    It was certainly better than painstakingly cultivating her for a century, only for someone else to reap the rewards.


    For long-lived cultivators, there was a certain amusement in the unpredictability of a venture like this.

 Chapter 244: The Fall of Liang Kingdom

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    A few dayster.


    In the bleak, wind-swept outskirts of Autumnwind Isle, the petrified statue of the round-faced young man covered in sandy earth seemed to silentlyment its fate.


    "Yuanjing''s vital signs are intact," reported Xia Shenn, standing beside the stone-like Xia Yuanjing, apanied by a portly middle-aged man in the Foundation Establishment stage. "His blood and spiritual power have been sealed by an Earth-type technique, making him unable to move."


    The portly Foundation Establishment cultivator was Xia Guang, Xia Yuanjing¡¯s father. His expression was dark, and his anger simmered beneath the surface.


    Lan Chang''an, ate Foundation Establishment cultivator and a quasi-third-rank talisman master, held a high status within the Xia Family, so Xia Guang restrained himself from an outburst.


    He had already visited Autumnwind Isle yesterday but had been turned away, as Lan Chang''an was supposedly in seclusion.


    The petrification spell that bound Xia Yuanjing was incredibly sophisticated, and Xia Guang didn¡¯t dare tamper with it for fear of harming his son.


    ¡°This stone spell seems to be the work of Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s spiritual pet. That Earth Burrowing Rat is responsible for the ind¡¯s security. Given that it''s a demonic beast, it likely doesn¡¯t know how to moderate its strength,¡± Xia Shenn said with a faint smile.She and Xia Wenyue were close friends, so she felt no sympathy for Xia Yuanjing.


    In fact, Xia Shenn understood Lan Chang''an¡¯s intentions quite well.


    This petrified "sculpture" was a warning to others, a deterrent to keep Autumnwind Isle free from harassment, so that Xia Wenyue could cultivate in peace.


    "Shenn, you have a good rtionship with Talisman Master Lan. Could you please speak on Yuanjing¡¯s behalf?" Xia Guang asked, forcing a smile.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Xia Shenn agreed, as Xia Guang was a respected elder in the n, senior to her in both age and rank.


    Just as she spoke, there was a sudden cracking sound.


    Awork of cracks spread across the stone surface covering Xia Yuanjing, resembling a spider¡¯s web.


    Within a few breaths,rge chunks of sand and soil fell away.


    Thud!


    Xia Yuanjing copsed to the ground, utterly drained, covered in dirt, and looking quite pitiful.


    ¡°Father¡­¡±


    "You''re an embarrassment!" Xia Guang spat, his face dark as he scooped up his son and flew off without a backward nce.


    Xia Shenn watched them leave, chuckling and shaking her head.


    Lan Chang''an had only removed the petrification because of her intervention.


    Yet, Xia Guang hadn¡¯t even bothered with a polite word of thanks. Perhaps he saw her as an ally of Lan Chang''an, someone who sided with "outsiders."


    That very day, Xia Guang took his son to the Water Curtain Cave to meet the n leader, intending to lodge aint against Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    The next day, n Leader Xia Hongyu personally visited Autumnwind Isle.


    Some members of the Xia Family assumed that he hade to mediate on behalf of Xia Guang and his son, to perhaps issue a warning to Lan Chang''an.


    In the main hall of the residence on Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an and Xia Hongyu engaged in rxed conversation.


    The matter of Xia Guang and his son was barely mentioned, a minor point, not the focus of the visit at all.


    ¡°These young ones can be thoughtless at times. If they¡¯ve offended Talisman Master Lan in any way, please forgive them,¡± said Xia Hongyu, whose near two-hundred-and-fifty-year-old figure still stood tall, his appearance handsome and schrly, looking not a day over forty. ??


    A few days earlier, Xia Hongyu had triumphed over a Fake Dan cultivator from the Xinyue Merchant Association, elevating his prestige within the n to new heights.


    ¡°It was nothing! It was my spirit pet¡¯sck of restraint that caused this overreaction,¡± Lan Chang''an replied modestly, feigning a tone of apology.


    To be fair, Xia Yuanjing hadn¡¯tmitted any major offense; he had only pursued a "maid" on the ind, never daring to cross the line.


    That was the root of Xia Guang¡¯s grievance, his belief that his son had been punished unfairly.


    "Talisman Master Lan, your skills in medicine and nurturing are extraordinary! Thanks to your treatments, Wenyue¡¯s condition has stabilized, and her cultivation is progressing smoothly. I am deeply grateful,¡± Xia Hongyu said, gradually shifting the topic to Xia Wenyue.


    Right then, Xia Wenyue herself entered, carrying a freshly brewed pot of spirit tea to serve the two men.


    Xia Hongyu¡¯s gaze softened as he looked at her, a hint of warmth in his eyes.


    Xia Wenyue was his grandniece, andpared to the many descendants in the n, she received a measure of preferential treatment. Otherwise, before Lan Chang''an¡¯s arrival, she wouldn¡¯t have remained on Autumnwind Isle, which housed a precious second-rank spiritual vein.


    As the patriarch and oldest member of the n, many of the Xia family¡¯s cultivators were Xia Hongyu¡¯s descendants.


    However, with so many children and grandchildren, his affection couldn¡¯t be evenly distributed.


    Only the most exceptional among them could capture his attention.


    ¡°Wenyue is gentle and diligent. Treating her has been a matter of fate,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile, fully aware of Xia Hongyu¡¯s real purpose for this visit.


    ¡°Fate indeed works in mysterious ways,¡± Xia Hongyu mused, recalling Lan Chang''an¡¯s journey of sneaking into Jing Kingdom.


    Had it not been for the ongoing war and a series of fortuitous coincidences, such an extraordinary talent would never have joined the Wufu Merchant Association.


    Once Xia Wenyue had left the hall, Xia Hongyu¡¯s expression became serious. His aged eyes looked intently at Lan Chang''an. ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, may I inquire about Wenyue¡¯s condition? Will she be able to reach the Foundation Establishment stage?¡±


    ¡°Her condition has stabilized, and she could attempt Foundation Establishment within a few years,¡± Lan Chang''an replied thoughtfully. ¡°However,pletely curing her will require several more years of nurturing and treatment.¡±


    ¡°Does Wenyue possess a unique constitution?¡± Xia Hongyu asked, his eyes gleaming with a hint of anticipation.


    ¡°That¡¯s correct. She has a type of innate Yin-cold physique that enables her to cultivate at a speedparable to that of an earth-grade spiritual root,¡± Lan Chang''an confirmed, realizing he couldn¡¯t hide it from the n leader.


    Besides Xia Wenyue¡¯ste mother, Xia Hongyu was the only other person who knew the specifics of her condition.


    With her swift cultivation progress following her recovery, Xia Hongyu had naturally begun to suspect she might possess a unique physique.


    ¡°Marvelous! Fellow Daoist Lan, you are indeed a blessing to the Wufu Merchant Association!¡± Xia Hongyu, a high-ranking Fake Dan cultivator, couldn¡¯t hide his excitement.


    While innate physiques varied in strength, they generally surpassed earth-grade spiritual roots.


    A physique that matched the cultivation speed of an earth-grade root often came with additional bonuses to spells, divine abilities, or even unique innate powers.


    Back in the day, Tuoba Jin¡¯s ability to challenge Fake Dan cultivators was partly due to such advantages.


    The cultivation world was vast and ancient, with countless types of innate Dao Physiques. Lan Chang''an chose not to specify which Xia Wenyue possessed.


    ¡°Let¡¯s keep Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao Physique under wraps for now,¡± Xia Hongyu suggested, and Lan Chang''an readily agreed.


    ...


    Following this, they discussed Xia Wenyue¡¯s future path.


    In this regard, Lan Chang''an and Xia Hongyu had a difference of opinion.


    Xia Hongyu wanted to raise Xia Wenyue within Qingsha Bay, keeping her close.


    As a family with ess to the resources of a merchant guild, the Xia Family could nurture Xia Wenyue to be a True Dan cultivator if they pooled their resources.


    Once she reached the True Dan stage, her physique¡¯s secret would no longer be a significant risk.


    Xia Wenyue would then lead the Wufu Merchant Association to new heights.


    However, Lan Chang''an believed that staying with the Xia Family would limit Xia Wenyue¡¯s potential.


    Still, as an outsider to the n, it wasn¡¯t his ce to openly oppose Xia Hongyu¡¯s n.


    Undoubtedly, Xia Hongyu understood this reasoning.


    At only thirty-something years old, Xia Wenyue had her entire life ahead of herpared to the long journey toward Core Formation or Nascent Soul.


    If she moved onto a bigger stage, as a woman, her connection to the Xia Family would gradually weaken, and in time, she would no longer belong to the family.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯ve done so much for Wenyue. I¡¯d be honored to make her your wife once she achieves Foundation Establishment!¡± Xia Hongyu said, his eyes shining with resolve.


    Lan Chang''an was momentarily stunned but quickly recognized the old man¡¯s scheming.


    ¡°Thank you for your generosity, n Leader, but I am unworthy of such a priceless gem as Wenyue. Besides, I have my own ns for the future and won¡¯t remain in Jing Kingdom forever.¡±


    It would be a lie to say Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t at all tempted.


    Marrying a woman with an innate Dao Physique and building a prominent family with her could indeed benefit his journey to Nascent Soul.


    However, Lan Chang''an had no desire to y the role of nurse or guardian for the Xia Family¡¯s prized jewel.


    Keeping her in the Xia Family would expose her to many risks.


    The secret of her innate Dao Physique would be hard to keep forever.


    In time, powerful factions would apply pressure, likely seeking to marry her into their own ranks.


    n Leader Xia¡¯s offer of marriage was clearly a ploy to prevent any arranged unions and to secure Lan Chang''an¡¯s loyalty.


    Xia Hongyu was shrewd; from Lan Chang''an¡¯s past experiences and certain clues, he had sensed that Lan Chang''an was no ordinary cultivator.


    Having Lan Chang''an bound to the n was akin to having an additional Fake Dan cultivator.


    Binding Lan Chang''an to the Xia Family meant sharing their risks, which improved their odds of survival.


    ¡°Since Fellow Daoist Lan is unwilling to take Wenyue as a wife, would you consider epting her as a disciple?¡± Xia Hongyu asked, taking a step back.


    A disciple?


    Lan Chang''an hesitated.


    Now that Xia Wenyue¡¯s talents were bing evident, keeping her on Autumnwind Isle as a mere servant seemed inappropriate.


    ¡°Taking on a disciple with an innate Dao Physique could tie one¡¯s fate to hers, for better or worse. Often, such a bond yields more benefit than harm,¡± Lan Chang''an thought. ¡°However, Wenyue¡¯s physique might hold the potential for advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm, so this situation is special¡­¡±


    After a brief pause, he made his decision.


    ¡°I am not qualified to be her full teacher, but I can take her on as a ¡®nominal disciple,¡¯ in name only,¡± Lan Chang''an replied.


    ¡°A nominal disciple?¡± Xia Hongyu was somewhat disappointed but epted the arrangement.


    With Lan Chang''an¡¯s unique methods for treating Xia Wenyue¡¯s condition, the n leader was keen to establish a formal rtionship between the two.


    This way, even if Xia Wenyue hadn¡¯t fully matured, Lan Chang''an might be inclined to look out for her.


    ...


    Over the next month, word spread within Qingsha Bay that Xia Wenyue possessed top-tier earth-grade spiritual roots.


    Due to her need for continuous treatment and out of gratitude, she remained on Autumnwind Isle as Lan Chang''an¡¯s nominal disciple.


    Given Xia Wenyue¡¯s beauty and talent, Lan Chang''an taking her as a nominal disciple was seen as a lofty gesture.


    Such a promising talent would usually be epted as a true disciple by a True Dan cultivator.


    Publicly, Lan Chang''an exined that Xia Wenyue was mainly learning medicine and alchemy from him, rather than formal cultivation techniques.


    Since Xia Wenyue had a background in herbal medicine and her condition had been stabilized under Lan Chang''an¡¯s care, this reason was usible.


    In the world of cultivation, it wasn¡¯t umon for elite disciples to learn auxiliary skills from masters of various fields as nominal disciples.


    Such a nominal arrangement allowed them to still seek out a more formal cultivation mentor elsewhere.


    Lan Chang''an was content with this minimal involvement.


    First, it prevented him from bing too entangled with Xia Wenyue, thus reducing potential risks in the future.


    Second, if Xia Wenyue ever betrayed him, it wouldn¡¯t be seen as a direct transgression against a full teacher, lessening the potential scandal.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an had made Xia Wenyue swear a heart demon oath, ensuring that the ¡°Taiyin Jade Essence¡± could only be given to him, and that she would never disclose this arrangement to anyone else.


    This non-disclosure use was crucial.


    Lan Chang''an genuinely appreciated Xia Wenyue¡¯s character, and he trusted that she wouldn¡¯t turn against him.


    But the allure of the future benefits was immense, and the time required to achieve them was lengthy.


    He believed in being cautious, hence the proactive precautions.


    ...


    Nearly a year flew by.


    The news of an exceptionally beautiful and talented female cultivator emerging in Qingsha Bay was no longer a surprise.


    Xia Wenyue, now at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, continued to progress rapidly.


    At her current rate, she would likely reach the peak of Qi-Refining within two more years.


    In fact, after a year of consolidation, she was ready to attempt Foundation Establishment.


    To avoid drawing too much attention, Lan Chang''an and n Leader Xia agreed to have her wait another year or two to ensure the timing was perfect.


    At her young age, reaching Foundation Establishment before forty was a certainty.


    The illness in her youth had dyed her progress.


    In a major cultivation sect, an earth-grade genius might achieve Foundation Establishment by thirty.


    ...


    One day, Lan Chang''anpleted his routine cultivation and began nurturing his treasure talismans.


    In his cultivation chamber, over sixty treasure talismans floated before him, their spiritual light shimmering and releasing powerful waves of energy.


    Sixty talismans were nearing Lan Chang''an¡¯s limit for simultaneous nurturing.


    Any more, and he would need to split them into sessions, wasting time and energy.


    These talismans generally held the power of low-grade third-rank, with some reaching the level of mid-grade third-rank.


    The stronger his Evergreen mana, the faster his nurturing speed.


    When the material reached its maximum potential, the process would slow down considerably.


    "These treasure talismans started as quasi-third-rank temtes. If I began with genuine third-rank talisman temtes, the quality could be even higher," he mused.


    Taking out two pieces of spiritual wood, he inspected them.


    One was a mid-grade third-rank spiritual wood from Liang Kingdom¡¯s treasures.


    The other half was the superior-grade "Tong Ghost Bamboo" he had received from Wang Feng.


    Theoretically, superior-grade third-rank spiritual wood could be crafted into superior-grade third-rank talismans.


    These would be powerful enough for ate-stage True Dan cultivator. However, Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense and mana were still far from sufficient.


    In particr, his mana quality wasn¡¯t high enough to craft third-rank talismans.


    Moreover, crafting the talisman nks for treasure talismans required an even higher standard.


    A talisman master is not like a formation master.


    A formation master can harness the power of heaven and earth. With highprehension, they can be third-rank formation masters even at thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    However, a talisman master requires both a strong spiritual sense and mana.


    "If I take a secret pill to boost my mana, I can reach the peak of Foundation Establishment, perhaps even touch the threshold of False Dan."


    "Even so, using mid-grade third-rank spiritual wood would lead to severe downgrades in the talisman quality."


    "A mid-grade third-rank talisman would degrade to low third-rank; a superior-grade third-rank would degrade to below mid-third-rank."


    After careful consideration, Lan Chang''an felt the cost-effectiveness was too low.


    He might have considered it before the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s advancement.


    But now, with his strong self-defense capabilities, backed by a powerful True Dan Great Demon as a protector and over sixty third-rank treasure talismans, he felt well-equipped.


    "There¡¯s another method¡ªsummoning the shadow of my second life¡¯s soul. When that happens, my spiritual sense would be on par with the peak of Core Formation, reaching my second life¡¯s pinnacle state."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s consciousness entered the Nine Seal Stele.


    In the first frame was the image of a youthful man from his first life, still shining brightly.


    In the second frame was his past self¡ªa white-bearded elder exuding a powerful Core Formation aura, emanating an intense pressure.


    The third frame represented his current life, showing a man in white robes, whose light flickered uncertainly, not yet fully stabilized.


    In the corner of the fourth empty frame, a small crystal-white area was illuminated, conspicuously standing out.


    This was the fragment that had been lit up years ago when he absorbed a "Hundred Abodes Soul Gu" sub-gu.


    Lan Chang''an once spected that fully illuminating the fourth frame might unlock a new ability of the Nine Seal Stele.


    Perhaps, it would even allow him to initiate a new reincarnation?


    Unfortunately, he had yet to encounter another high-quality nourishment like the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu sub-gu, nor had he found a suitable substitute.


    "Summoning the soul shadow of my second life can only be done once every ten years. Wouldn¡¯t it be wasteful to use it just for crafting talismans?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered, weighing his options.


    Due to his careful management over the past century and a bit of luck, he had never needed to use the ultimate trump card of summoning his second life''s soul shadow.


    Now, with the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s advancement to a powerful demon, and hisrge stock of treasure talismans, the soul shadow of his second life had be just one of his strongest backup options, not the only lifeline.


    The main benefit of summoning his second life¡¯s soul shadow was the leap in soul power, but it would not make him truly equal to ate Core Formation master.


    Its best use would be to defend against soul-based attacks.


    It would still be effective against the early to mid stage of True Dan, but further up it was more of a chicken rib.


    ...


    One yearter, Lan Chang''an was now 158 years old.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s cultivation had reached the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining, though this was not publicly disclosed.


    The n leader had quietly begun preparing resources for her Foundation Establishment.


    The inferior Foundation Establishment pill Lan Chang''an had kept in reserve would likely go unused.


    "158 years old¡­ it¡¯s been three years since Wang Feng predicted the end of the war in the Liang Kingdom," Lan Chang''an thought, standing atop a pavilion, looking eastward toward the Liang Kingdom.


    Using a rudimentary ¡°qi observation¡± technique from his past life, he tried to glean some insight.


    Perhaps the distance was too great, as he saw nothing out of the ordinary.


    ¡°Master Lan, the guild has delivered thetest war report from the Liang Kingdom,¡± Xia Wenyue said as she gracefullynded beside him, presenting a jade slip.


    Although nominally Lan Chang''an¡¯s disciple, Xia Wenyue still called him "Master Lan," preserving the dynamic of a healer and patient.


    This was by Lan Chang''an¡¯s request.


    He feared that treating her too formally as a disciple might one day make it difficult for him to ask for the Taiyin Jade Essence.


    ¡°Hopefully, the war has ended and the cultivation world is stabilizing¡­¡± Lan Chang''an murmured as he took the jade slip and scanned its contents.


    Since it was cross-border intelligence, the report was a few months dyed.


    ¡°What! me Departing Pce has been breached?¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s face shook as his hand trembled slightly.


    ¡°The Supreme Elder of me Departing Pce, ¡®Master Lihuo,¡¯ confronted Golden Sun Sect¡¯s ¡®Six Suns True Monarch¡¯ in a life-or-death battle. In the end, Master Lihuo suffered a crushing defeat, his fate unknown!¡±


    ¡°me Departing Pce¡¯s mountain stronghold has been breached by the Golden Sun Sect of Feng Kingdom. The mighty Nascent Soul-level sect that ruled the Liang Kingdom for millennia has¡­ fallen.¡±


    Lan Chang''an found it hard to believe, almost suspecting the report to be a fabrication.


    There were too many perplexing details about this news.


    Wang Feng had once said, "The war in Liang Kingdom will end within three years."


    The information was true¡ªthe war had indeed ended.


    The Golden Sun Sect of Feng Kingdom had sessively conquered Xuan Yin Pavilion, coerced Jin Yun Valley into submission, and now overthrown the supreme me Departing Pce.


    This meant that the entire cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom had effectively been subjugated by a foreign sect.

 Chapter 245: Nascent Soul True Monarch

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    After a long moment, Lan Chang''an managed to calm his thoughts, though he still had lingering doubts about the authenticity of the report.


    Firstly, it''s not umon for false intelligence to circte during wartime, including deliberate misinformation and maniption of public opinion.


    Secondly, there were several oddities in the report.


    Why would the me Departing Pce abandon their stronghold? Why would their Supreme Elder agree to a duel with Golden Sun Sect¡¯s Nascent Soul True Monarch? As an experienced Nascent Soul, why would the Master Lihuo suffer such a humiliating defeat?


    From what Lan Chang''an knew, Golden Sun Sect¡¯s Six Sun True Monarch had only reached the Nascent Soul Realm within thest two hundred years¡ªhis experience and foundation were no match for the elder Master Lihuo.


    If the Six Sun True Monarch was indeed so powerful, the Golden Sun Sect wouldn¡¯t have suffered a defeat at the hands of Chu Tianfeng from the Yan Kingdom years ago, when their two Nascent Soul elders were beaten by Chu Tianfeng alone, forcing them to sign a relocation treaty to move north.


    To verify the report, Lan Chang''an visited the residence of Young Master Xia.


    Since Young Master Xia¡¯s promotion tote Foundation Establishment, his status within the n had risen, and he had begun to take on family and business responsibilities. He still respected Lan Chang''an as a n guest, and there was no animosity between them despite the incident with Yu Qin....


    "The report should be true," Young Master Xia said gravely. "Recently, the prices of many war-rted supplies have dropped sharply, and this trend actually began over a year ago."


    Lan Chang''an, who had previously profited from the war, understood the significance of this. Merchant guilds are highly sensitive to price fluctuations, and analyzing economic patterns suggested that the Liang Kingdom war had indeed ended.


    The downward trend in the price of war supplies for the past year or so indicated that the upper echelons of both the Liang and Feng Kingdoms had already foreseen this oue.


    Lan Chang''an thought of Wang Feng, who, three years ago, had been certain the war would end soon, and had thus changed his ns to return to Liang Kingdom.


    ¡°By the way, I heard a rumor from the upper levels of the Merchant Alliance. It¡¯s said that Chu Tianfeng of Yan Kingdom was dissatisfied with the pace of Golden Sun Sect¡¯s northern migration and wanted the war to end as soon as possible, so he applied pressure,¡± Young Master Xia added.


    "This might exin why the two sects decided on a final battle, with Master Lihuo agreeing to the duel."


    Though only a rumor, it rified some of Lan Chang''an¡¯s questions about the report.


    Had me Departing Pce chosen to hold its ground, Golden Sun Sect¡¯s forces wouldn¡¯t have been able to end the war so quickly.


    After all, Golden Sun Sect had only sent one Nascent Soul True Monarch to the frontlines, while an older, more experienced Nascent Soul elder remained behind at their headquarters as a deterrent, in case Chu Tianfeng went back on his word.


    Years ago, the Nascent Soul True Monarchs from Feng, Yan, and Chen Kingdoms had reached a secret truce, even forming a fourth-rank soul contract to enforce it.


    ¡°Chu Tianfeng is the only mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator among the neighboring cultivation nations, a truly formidable presence.¡±


    ¡°If he wanted to end the war, me Departing Pce had no choice but to face Golden Sun Sect. Had Master Lihuo won the duel, it would have been beneficial for his sect. Unfortunately, he lost¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an could roughly guess the situation now.


    "Talisman Master Lan, there¡¯s no need to worry too much about your friends in Liang Kingdom. Golden Sun Sect has been fairly lenient towards those who surrender, whether they¡¯re sects or independent cultivators, and rarely causes indiscriminate ughter." ?


    Young Master Xia tried tofort him.


    He knew that the Liang Kingdom was Lan Chang''an¡¯s homnd, where he had cultivated for over a hundred years.


    Seeing one¡¯s homnd conquered was never a pleasant feeling for any cultivator.


    "Let¡¯s hope so."


    But Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t overly concerned.


    The Mu Family at Feiyue Lake, for instance, had quickly surrendered when the Golden Sun Sect attacked,rgely due to Mu Jiuan¡¯s connections. With Mu Jiuan¡ªa member of Golden Sun Sect¡ªas a liaison, figures like Li Erqing and Mu Bingyun would likely receive decent treatment after surrendering.


    As for Jin Yun Valley, it had already surrendered years ago and received preferential treatment.


    Zhao Siyao, who had achieved the rank of Fake Dan, was considered a high-ranking member of the sect with a life expectancy exceeding three hundred years.


    Golden Sun Sect¡¯s restraint fromrge-scale ughter and plundering made sense.


    First, it reduced their casualties.


    Second, the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s goal was to establish asting presence in the Liang Kingdom cultivation world, not merely plunder and retreat.


    This was fundamentally different from how Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects had invaded Feng Kingdom in the past, pursuing short-term gain.


    ...


    After bidding farewell to Young Master Xia and returning to Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an felt his ns for the future bing clearer.


    ¡°Golden Sun Sect¡¯s northward migration and the stabilization of Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world will take many years.¡±


    Lan Chang''an knew that the war had only just ended, and the Liang Kingdom was still in turmoil; it wasn¡¯t yet the right time to return.


    Until he reached the Core Formation Realm, Jing Kingdom remained the most peaceful and stable region around.


    In another ten or twenty years, after reaching Core Formation, he could consider a return to the Liang Kingdom.


    As for the Liang Kingdom changing owners? Lan Chang''an, who had lived multiple lifetimes, had no sentimental attachment to any particr regime.


    me Departing Pce was merely the ruling ss, not the embodiment of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    It was like the distinction between the imperial court and the nation.


    Criticizing a corrupt court didn¡¯t mean one was disloyal to the country.


    me Departing Pce¡¯s governance had a mixed reputation at best.


    From what Lan Chang''an knew, figures like Song Wenshu had colluded with bandits, and the Night Fishermanman was a former me Departing Pce disciple, expelled but still the grandson of an elder.


    The destruction of the Huanglong Mountain was another example, with me Departing Pce seizing their assets to offset war losses.


    There was also the case of Liang Shaotian, framed for assaulting a female disciple of Xuan Yin Pavilion, a crime actuallymitted by a me Departing Pce inner disciple.


    Or the case of Xiang Jinglong, wrongfully pursued by me Departing Pce.


    The hatred that the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, led by Liang Shaotian, held toward the sects of the Liang Kingdom, especially me Departing Pce, had deep roots in these past grievances.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    In Cloudsmoke Immortal City, at the Xunxian Residence.


    Lan Chang''an, as agreed, conducted the third annual treatment session for Wang Feng.


    Performing a treatment once a year, while conveniently using the trip to purchase supplies, was hardly a burden for him.


    This time, he nned to subtly probe Wang Feng for inside information on the Liang Kingdom war.


    "With the aid of third-rank spiritual herbs, your healing has progressed well. You may be fully healed in three more years and regain the cultivation speed of your earth-grade spiritual root¡­" Lan Chang''an said after taking Wang Feng¡¯s pulse, smiling slightly.


    He was naturally pleased that the treatment was progressing faster, as it meant he would soon receive the remaining portion of his payment.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, could you treat me a few more times this year and speed up my recovery?¡± Wang Feng asked urgently during this meeting.


    Surprised, Lan Chang''an shook his head. "Each treatment consumes my vital energy and ces a burden on my body."


    ¡°I¡¯llpensate you for the loss with third-rank elixirs and minerals, if that would suffice.¡±


    ¡°Please, Talisman Master Lan!¡± Wang Feng pleaded earnestly, bowing deeply.


    Lan Chang''an realized that Wang Feng was indeed desperate, wanting his body healed in the shortest possible time.


    What had changed to make him so urgent?


    A few ideas shed through Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind, but he couldn¡¯t be certain.


    "Ordinary third-rank elixirs and minerals don¡¯t hold much value for me. I¡¯m not young anymore, and dying my own cultivation would make reaching Core Formation impossible."


    Lan Chang''an rejected the request without hesitation.


    His current pace of treatment was alreadyparable to that of a third-rank medicinal master or celebrity doctor; he couldn¡¯t go any faster without drawing suspicion.


    Wang Feng was a true disciple of me Departing Pce, and behind him was ate-stage Core Formation Elder. Using the Evergreen Technique too openly might expose its secrets.


    Despite its defeat, me Departing Pce hadn¡¯t been destroyed entirely.


    Completely wiping them out would be extremely difficult, and Golden Sun Sect was unlikely to pay such a high price.


    Therefore, some of me Departing Pce¡¯s core members would likely have fought their way out.


    Given the strength of Elder Wang, it was highly probable that he had managed to escape.


    With his earth-grade spiritual root grandson in Jing Kingdom, Elder Wang might even be on his way here now.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t afford to reveal the secrets of his Evergreen Technique, even if it meant losing out on the remaining half of his payment.


    The half piece of Tong Ghost Bamboo he had received could suffice.


    ¡°Talisman Master Lan, I know this request puts you in a difficult position. Name your price, and I¡¯ll see if I can meet it,¡± Wang Feng said, unwilling to give up.


    ¡°If you can provide a Crystal Condensation Pill or a Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower, I might consider it,¡± Lan Chang¡¯an replied, intentionally setting a high price to test him.


    Wang Feng hesitated, then shook his head with a wry smile. "When I came to Jing Kingdom, I was only at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, far from reaching Core Formation, so my grandfather didn¡¯t provide me with any Core Formation resources."


    The room fell silent as Lan Chang''an resumed his treatment of Wang Feng.


    In truth, if Wang Feng could have provided a Crystal Condensation Pill or a Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower, Lan Chang''an might have epted some risk.


    Everyone was happy to do things with low risks and high returns, but it was rarely encountered.


    Although me Departing Pce had suffered a crushing defeat, it was not aplete annihtion. Their remnants had scattered in various directions, making it hard for any single group to be targeted.


    Even injuredte-stage Core Formation cultivators would need to keep a low profile, especially if they had fled to Jing Kingdom. Waging war to settle an uncertain score was unlikely.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an now had many trump cards, including the protection of a True Dan Great Demon, and had long since be more than just a loose cultivator walking on thin ice at the bottom of the cultivation world.


    ...


    Two hourster.


    As Lan Chang''an left the guest room, Wang Feng watched his retreating figure with clenched fists and a dark look in his eyes.


    "The Supreme Elder¡¯s Nascent Soul is severely damaged and might notst another sixty years. They urgently need to cultivate a sessor."


    "Among the me Departing Pce disciples who managed to escape, very few true disciples survived. With my talent and my grandfather¡¯s support, I have a strong chance of receiving the sect¡¯s Core Formation resources."


    "The Supreme Elder will personally inspect the candidates for ws. If he finds even a hint of damage in my foundation, my standing will be jeopardized."


    Wang Feng was worried that his lingering injury would leave an impression of a wed foundation in the Supreme Elder¡¯s mind.


    The so-called Core Formation candidates were me Departing Pce¡¯s potential Nascent Soul sessors.


    After their crushing defeat, the higher-ranking disciples, Nascent Soul Seeds, and mid-stage Core Formation cultivators had been specifically targeted for elimination, leaving few remaining. More than half of the true disciples have been eliminated.


    This was a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.


    Whoever formed an Immortal Golden Dan first would receive the Nascent Soul resources me Departing Pce had preserved, along with priority ess to future opportunities.


    This was a path leading directly to the heavens!


    ...


    At the northern border of Jing Kingdom, near the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    The sky was dark with thunderclouds as lightning shed and roared.


    Boom! Boom!


    Powerful waves of Core Formation energy shed, creating devastating shockwaves that ttened nearby mountains.


    "Liang Shaotian! How dare you¡ª"


    "A mere mid-stage Core Formation demon spawn dares to ambush me Departing Pce¡¯s cultivators?"


    In the center of the valley, me Departing Pce¡¯s temporary third-rank formation enclosed a vast red shield of mes that emitted a constant crackling as sparks flew.


    Floating above the shield were members of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, with at least three Core Formation cultivators and several Fake Dan experts among them.


    Leading the group was a man with long ck hair and a wicked aura, d in ck robes with cloud patterns, his sword-like eyebrows and sharp nose giving him a cold, sinister look.


    His piercing dark eyes seemed to hold ten thousand years of ice, enough to chill anyone who met his gaze.


    "Elder Wang, so you¡¯re one of me Departing Pce¡¯s cowards who only dares hide behind a formation."


    "Care to step out and face me in a real fight?"


    Standing atop dark clouds, Liang Shaotian¡¯s entire figure was surrounded by twisted, chilling mes that glinted with ghostly light.


    Anything touched by these demonic mes would dim, leaving ck scorch marks, and they even tore through the formation¡¯s barrier with ease.


    "A lowly vulture taking advantage of others¡¯ misfortune! If I were at my peak, you wouldn¡¯t dare speak so boldly!"


    Elder Wang¡¯s face was grim as he brandished a fan-shaped magic treasure, summoning swirling gusts of violet-blue wind. The winds were strong enough to lift boulders, but their main purpose was to fend off the deadly ck Dipper Demonic me that Liang Shaotian wielded.


    "ck Dipper Demonic me, one of the top ten demonic mes of the Great Qing... He''s actually mastered it to the minor achievement stage. We can¡¯t withstand it head-on!"


    Inside the formation, Elder Wang was joined by two other Core Formation cultivators and five Fake Dan experts from me Departing Pce, each pouring their strength into sustaining the formation and repelling the assault of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect cultivators.


    Meanwhile, deeper within the valley, a dozen me Departing Pce Foundation Establishment disciples huddled together, their faces ashen. In their midst sat an elderly man in a purple robe, his face gaunt and wrinkled, appearing on the verge of copse. This was none other than Master Lihuo, the highest-ranking elder of the me Departing Pce¡ªan old Nascent Soul cultivator who had been severely injured during his recent duel with the Six Sun True Monarch from the Golden Sun Sect.


    ¡°Supreme Elder! You¡¯re awake!¡± one of the disciples eximed, his voice trembling with a mixture of fear and hope.


    Master Lihuo¡¯s lifeless eyes blinked slowly open. He took in the sight of the battlefield, his expression hardening as he saw the demonic mes that licked at the edges of the formation.


    "Quick, dodge!"


    Liang Shaotian sensed a sudden danger, his pitch-ck pupils shing with a sharp glint. ck mes erupted around him, leaving afterimages that constantly shifted as he dashed through the air.


    "Heretic of the Demonic Sect!"


    A cold, elderly snort sounded, and it was as if thunder echoed across the heavens.


    Three dark red arcs of light, as thin as fingers, descended like divine retribution, slithering like snakes as they pursued the shifting afterimages.


    Liang Shaotian¡¯s magical power surged wildly, and his secret technique pushed his speed beyond that of a typicalte-stage Core Formation cultivator. He barely managed to evade one of the arcs.


    Whoosh! Boom!


    In the distance, a mountain over a hundred zhang tall was struck by a missed arc of dark red light. It erupted in a fiery ze, shattering like a watermelon split open.


    Two arcs of dark red light remained.


    One struck Liang Shaotian directly.


    The other grazed his shoulder, instantly reducing a nearby Demonic Sect Fake Dan cultivator to ashes.


    "A Nascent Soul True Monarch!"


    "Terrifying! I nearly died of fright..."


    Only a few zhang away, a burly man with bronze skin¡ªXiang Jinglong¡ªstood trembling, his face pale.


    A casual attack from a Nascent Soul True Monarch could potentially be resisted by ate-stage Core Formation expert, but a typical early-stage Core Formation or Fake Dan cultivator would perish on contact.


    Boom!


    Liang Shaotian, cloaked in dark mes, was sent flying backward, clutching a mottled ck ancient shield. His body crashed into a mountain, embedding itself within the rock.


    The demonic mes and Core power around his shoulder dissipated, leaving a dark red hole that smoldered with ck smoke.


    "ck Dipper Demon me! The Ancient Shield of the Demon Abyss! This son has extraordinary fortune; he must have inherited the legacy of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect."


    The purple-robed Daoist, havingpleted his attack, wore a grave expression. Clutching his chest, he coughed lightly, his internal energy in disarray.


    "Haha! Sect Leader Liang''s intel was indeed urate. ''Master Lihuo'' is gravely injured, with only a fraction of his strength remaining, and he cannot sustain prolonged battle."


    A heartyugh echoed from the forested mountains in the direction of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Swish, swish, swish!


    A broad, portly middle-aged man d in a gold-embroidered robe approached, leading a group of cultivators.


    His aura was as vast as a mountain torrent, striking fear into the hearts of ordinary cultivators¡ªa clear indication of ate-stage Core Formation great cultivator.


    "Vice-Alliance Leader Duan, I led the charge to test his strength, and you finally decided to show yourself," Liang Shaotian sneered, his tone dripping with mockery.


    The rotund middle-aged man, ate-stage Core Formation cultivator, was the Vice Alliance Leader of the Jing Kingdom¡¯s Merchant Alliance and the patriarch of the Jiuchen Merchant Association.


    "Haha! I, Duan, merely follow Sect Master Liang¡¯s lead. Once we seize the treasures of me Departing Pce, we''ll split the gains fifty-fifty," the portly man said, his eyes narrowing.


    Although Liang Shaotian¡¯s cultivation was inferior to his, his strength was one step better.


    Just moments ago, Liang had employed a secret technique and relied on the ck Dipper Demonic me and the ancient defensive magic treasure to withstand a blow from the injured Nascent Soul expert, sustaining only minor injuries.


    Such prowess left Vice-Alliance Leader Duan feeling inadequate.


    "Don¡¯t give that old fellow a chance to recover¡ªkill him!"


    The forces of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect and Vice-Alliance Leader Duan¡¯s group converged, forming abined force of six Core Formation cultivators and over a dozen Fake Dan disciples.


    Liang Shaotian and Vice-Alliance Leader Duan together matched or even exceeded the power of twote-stage Core Formation masters.


    Boom!


    The temporary third-rank formation of the me Departing Pce crumbled in an instant.


    With his Nascent Soul injured, Master Lihuo could no longer maintain his attacks and was pinned down by Liang Shaotian and the others.


    Elder Wang, who was also gravely injured, had his strength reduced to the mid-Core Formation stage. Leading the remaining wounded disciples of me Departing Pce, he struggled to resist, heavily outnumbered and disadvantaged.


    "Fulin! Lead the disciples to retreat. I will unleash a secret art shortly, igniting mytent power to take down a few of them..."


    Master Lihuo¡¯s voice rang in Elder Wang¡¯s ears.


    A few breathster.


    Master Lihuo¡¯s entire body ignited with ayer of translucent purple mes. His previously withered skin became fair and plump, a flush of red coloring his face.


    In an instant, his power surged, doubling in strength. Controlling a red leaf magic treasure, he summoned a cloud of mes spanning over a li, resembling a mountain of fire pressing down on the disciples of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect and the Merchant Alliance.


    At the forefront, Liang Shaotian and Vice-Alliance Leader Duan¡¯s hair and robes were charred and smoking, leaving them in a pitiful state.


    "Quick! Set up the formation!"


    The demonic sect disciples behind Liang Shaotian produced formation tes, gs, and special talismans, swiftly arranging an ancient grand formation.


    Whoosh! Crash!


    A cold, dense ck liquid surged from all directions, forming a boundless ck Water Formation that covered several hundred zhang and pulsed endlessly.


    "The ck Yin Heavy Water Formation!"


    Master Lihuo¡¯s face paled in shock as the massive cloud of me was eroded and neutralized by the abyssal ck water.


    He had hoped to use his secret technique to kill a few cultivators, only to find his me arts countered by the demonic formation of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect.


    "Sect Master Liang, only you could have pulled this off!"


    Vice-Alliance Leader Duan wiped a cold sweat from his brow. Without such a formation, at least half of the cultivators present would have perished.


    "Hmph."


    Liang Shaotian¡¯s expression remained impassive. He stood with his hands behind his back, his long hair flowing freely, as if everything were under his control.


    He couldn¡¯t help but recall a mysterious figure who imed to hail from one of the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path, the Gate of Endless Darkness, who had provided him with extraordinarily detailed intelligence.


    Liang Shaotian, who held grudges deeply, would never let such a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity slip by.


    Even if he knew he was being used, even if a Nascent Soul True Monarch was a daunting opponent, he was determined to strike a fatal blow!


    ¡­


    Half an hourter.


    A streak of purple light darted through the clouds.


    Inside the light, Master Lihuo¡¯s body had withered, his skin wrinkled and sagging with age.


    Cough, cough¡­


    Suddenly, the purple light dimmed. Master Lihuo¡¯s vision went ck as his body plummeted downward.


    With the resilience of a Nascent Soul True Monarch¡¯s body, he wouldn¡¯t be shattered to pieces, but he would surely be left in a humiliating state.


    "Fellow Daoist Lihuo, I¡¯ve finally found you."


    A calm male voice sounded in his ear.


    Master Lihuo¡¯s vision cleared, and he found himself seated atop a t mountain peak.


    To be precise, a segment of the peak had been sheared off by some unknown force, leaving a smooth surface.


    Standing before him was a tall, imposing man with shoulders as sharp as des, dressed in a cloud-patterned robe with silver trim.


    Master Lihuo¡¯s heart sank. The light, air, and even the mountain breeze seemed to orbit this man as their center.


    Master Lihuo¡¯s beard trembled as he spat out angrily:


    "Chu Tianfeng, you went back on your word!"


    "We agreed to a one-on-one duel. Who was it that ambushed me from the shadows? Without that sneak attack, I would never have lost so miserably!"

 Chapter 246: The Eastern Domain of Great Qing

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    The dignified man standing before him was none other than Chu Tianfeng, the number one cultivator in all the nearby cultivation nations.


    "For hundreds of years, this Chu has always kept his word," Chu Tianfeng said in a clear, unruffled tone, exuding a certain pride that seemed detached from the mundane world.


    "On the day of the wagered battle, I confirmed that several Nascent Soul cultivators from Feng Kingdom and Chen Kingdom were present at the mountain gate and had notified them in advance. I can guarantee that none of them interfered in the duel!"


    "Is that true? But the assant was clearly a Nascent Soul True Monarch!"


    Master Lihuo had agreed to the wagered battle because Chu Tianfeng had a reputation for honesty and integrity in the past.


    Chu Tianfeng¡¯s strength was unparalleled in the region. When he first entered the mid-stage Nascent Soul Realm, he had already managed to defeat two Nascent Soul cultivators from the Golden Sun Sect simultaneously. Over the years, his power had only grown.


    In his current weakened state, Master Lihuo stood no chance against Chu Tianfeng and had no reason to doubt him, much less think he would lie.


    "Not long ago, I questioned Daoist Six Sun about this, and he swore a Heart Demon Oath that he did not seek external help," Chu Tianfeng added.Master Lihuo was taken aback. If even the Nascent Soul True Monarchs with vested interests in the surrounding regions were ruled out as suspects¡­ then who could the culprit be?


    Indeed, in the eastern region of the Great Qing, there were many cultivation nations with several Nascent Soul True Monarchs in their ranks. However, they were far away and had no reason to intervene. Besides, with Daoist Six Sun having sworn a Heart Demon Oath that no foreign aid was enlisted, who else could it have been?


    "Could it be¡­ one of the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path?" Master Lihuo¡¯s heart trembled as he considered the possibility.


    Yet, with the rapid expansion of the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path, it didn¡¯t make sense for them to invade Liang Kingdom¡¯s surrounding area so soon. The Demon Sect invasions were brutal and unrelenting, unlike the Golden Sun Sect, which was more restrained. Anyone who resisted would have their sects utterly annihted, with massacres and total obliteration of their legacies beingmon.


    In most cases, the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path did not ept surrender.


    Compared to them, the cultivation forces around the Feng Kingdom adhered to a neutral, orderly stance. No matter how corrupt things were behind closed doors, everyone still maintained a veneer of propriety and morality.


    "Among the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path, there is a particrly unique faction known as the ¡®Unseen Gate,¡¯" Chu Tianfeng exined slowly.


    "The Unseen Gate rarely participates in open warfare. They specialize in intelligence gathering, infiltrating enemy forces with spies, and asionally carry out assassination tasks."


    "So, you suspect that the sneak attacker might havee from the Unseen Gate?" asked Master Lihuo.


    "It¡¯s just a guess!" Chu Tianfeng said, not entirely certain. "Years ago, I visited a cultivation nation that had been invaded by the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path and gathered a lot of intelligence. One conclusion I reached was that any territory targeted by the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path would first see infiltration by the Unseen Gate. They would collect intelligence and weaken internal unity. When facing a formidable opponent, they might eveny ns spanning over a century."


    At Chu Tianfeng¡¯s level, he was among the first to notice the movements of the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path, and he wanted to quickly quell the cultivation wars. His recent move to broker a truce in Feng Kingdom was meant to prevent needless infighting.


    He had also proposed a wagered battle between the Nascent Soul cultivators of Golden Sun Sect and me Departing Pce, hoping to minimize casualties. Who could have expected a third party to interfere?


    Master Lihuo had been ambushed during the duel, enraging him to the point that he struck out in fury. Golden Sun Sect, in turn, had refused to hold back, leading to an all-out assault that ultimately destroyed me Departing Pce.


    ...


    Master Lihuo pondered for a moment and found himself inclined to believe Chu Tianfeng¡¯s words. At the very least, it seemed Chu Tianfeng hadn¡¯t yed any tricks in that duel.


    However, he still harbored resentment toward Chu Tianfeng. Now that he was in Chu¡¯s grasp, with his life hanging by a thread, he saw no need for politeness.


    "Chu Tianfeng! Now that me Departing Sect has been destroyed and our mountain gate reduced to rubble, what does the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path¡¯s invasion have to do with me?" Master Lihuo sneered. ??


    "Back then, when you allied with the Chen Kingdom to invade Feng Kingdom, I sent disciples to make contact with you. At that time, you looked down on us and ignored our requests."


    "I led the sects of Liang Kingdom in ¡®cooperating¡¯ with your invasion of Feng Kingdom¡ªplundering but not upying territory. But in the end, your three nations brokered a peace agreement and forced the Golden Sun Sect to relocate north!"


    Recalling these past events filled Master Lihuo with anger.


    During the initial invasion, the Liang Kingdom had plundered resources, benefiting greatly. Many praised their Supreme Elder''s foresight for allowing them to feast on Feng Kingdom¡¯s wealth. Chu Tianfeng, at that time, had not issued any warnings or objections, likely because the Liang Kingdom had helped dilute the power of Feng Kingdom¡¯s forces. It was an unspoken understanding, or so it seemed.


    "Fellow Daoist Lihuo, this is simply fate," Chu Tianfeng replied, not denying the facts.


    "If it weren¡¯t for the Six Sects of the Devil''s Path expanding eastward and Feng Kingdom¡¯s deep foundation, which couldn¡¯t afford further infighting, I wouldn¡¯t have minded letting you participate. Had we been able to quickly subdue the Golden Sun Sect and im their mid-grade fourth-rank spiritual vein, you would have had a share of the spoils."


    "So, in the end, me Departing Pce was the one sacrificed," Master Lihuo said bitterly.


    He had long understood that, even if me Departing Pce hadn¡¯t taken the initiative to invade Feng Kingdom, the oue would have been the same. Feng Kingdom would still have found a legitimate excuse for a counterattack.


    "Exactly, because you were the weakest."


    Chu Tianfeng spoke bluntly, exposing the bloody reality.


    In truth, at that time, every step taken by Master Lihuo was correct.


    If it weren¡¯t for the eastward expansion of the Six Demonic Sects, and the sects of Liang Kingdom defying authority to invade the vast and resource-rich Feng Kingdom, piging its resources and heritage, it could have strengthened the foundation of Liang''s cultivation world.


    The sects of the Liang Kingdom only aimed to seize resources, not territory, showing restraint. Yan Kingdom and Chen Kingdom wouldn¡¯t have objected.


    If he had seeded, he would have been sung and celebrated, bing a hero of Liang''s cultivation world.


    In the ensuing war, me Departing Pce maintained a steady and solid defense, holding out for many years without fault.


    But s, the difference in power was too great.


    Golden Sun Sect has an ancient lineage; thousands of years ago, it even had three Nascent Soul True Monarchs. Today is actually considered one of the weaker eras for that sect.


    "That''s right. Among the surrounding Nascent Soul-level sects, my me Departing Pce is indeed one of the weakest. Even the Six Demonic Sects chose to breach through us first," Master Lihuo said with a bitter smile, his expression despondent.


    Although Chu Tianfeng''s words were painful, they reflected the harshw of survival in the cultivation world.


    No matter how well-calcted each step was, without sufficient strength and fortune, the oue was predestined.


    ...


    "Chu Tianfeng, cut the crap, how do you n to deal with me? This humble Daoist will ept whatever you decide," Master Lihuo said, acknowledging that in his current weakened state, he had no hope of escape.


    Master Lihuo knew that, given his current weakened state, escape was out of the question.


    If he had been at his peak, his Nascent Soul could have left his body, allowing him to flee at speeds far surpassing others of his rank, leaving him with a chance to escape.


    However, during the Nascent Soul battle at the me Departing Pce, he had been ambushed and severely wounded in a brutal sh with Six Sun True Monarch. His Nascent Soul was also damaged.


    Earlier, Liang Shaotian and the other cultivators had taken advantage of his injuries to raid him, further depleting his energy and worsening his condition.


    Thankfully, he had managed to unleash a secret technique, pushing his potential to the limit, and single-handedly suppressed over a dozen Immortals, allowing Elder Wang and others to escape.


    In order to demonstrate the might of a Nascent Soul True Monarch, he had spared no cost, forcefully breaking through the "ck Yin Heavy Water Formation" that restrained him, killing two or three Immortals in the process to vent his rage.


    But the result was that his physical body was now on the verge of copse, his life force nearly extinguished. He almost fainted from exhaustion.


    "Fellow Daoist Lihuo, if I, Chu Tianfeng, wanted your life, I wouldn¡¯t need to do so today."


    Chu Tianfeng shook his head,ughing softly.


    "Regarding our previous wager, I failed to fully consider its consequences, leading to significant losses for your sect."


    "Hmm?"


    Upon hearing this, Master Lihuo was surprised and began to sense Chu Tianfeng''s true intentions.


    Chu Tianfeng appeared slightly apologetic as he took out a long jade box.


    "This is a fourth-rank Millennial Soul-Nurturing Wood. It can help you nourish your Nascent Soul. With a suitable new body, you can soon return to full strength."


    Master Lihuo had overdrawn his life force, leaving his physical body severely damaged. Even if it was restored, he would only be able to exert half of his strength at best.


    His Nascent Soul was also injured, though to a lesser extent.


    The fourth-rank Soul-Nurturing Wood could nourish the spirit and slowly repair the damage to the Nascent Soul. Even for Nascent Soul cultivators, it was a rare and valuable heavenly treasure.


    Chu Tianfeng offering such a treasure as a gesture of apology showed a degree of sincerity.


    Master Lihuo did not stand on ceremony; he took the jade box and scanned it with his spiritual sense.


    Chu Tianfeng was one of the main reasons for the downfall of the me Departing Pce, so while this gesture slightly eased Master Lihuo''s resentment, it did not eliminate it entirely.


    With this Soul-Nurturing Wood, his damaged and withered Nascent Soul could be nourished, possibly extending his little remaining lifespan slightly.


    "When my Endless Sect relocates to the north and assumes control over the Feng Kingdom, I can allow the fourth-rank spiritual vein in the Yan Kingdom¡¯s old sect grounds to be used by me Departing Pce as a base for rest and cultivation."


    Chu Tianfeng proposed.


    First a Soul-Nurturing Wood, now an offer of a fourth-rank spiritual vein as a cultivation site?


    Was such a heaven-sent fortune really falling into hisp?


    Master Lihuo¡¯s heart was like a clear mirror. He spoke hesitantly, "My me Departing Pce has suffered greatly, and our members are scattered. I fear we may not be able to hold onto a fourth-rank spiritual vein in Yan Kingdom."


    If the Six Demonic Sects were to invade, Yan Kingdom''s location would make it one of the first cultivation nations to fall.


    Chu Tianfeng¡¯s aim in taking control of Feng Kingdom wasn¡¯t just for Golden Sun Sect¡¯s mid-grade fourth-rank spiritual vein, which could support his mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivation.


    Feng Kingdom was vast and resource-rich, with a deep strategic position, and was home to multiple ancient Nascent Soul powers.


    By upying Feng Kingdom, he would be better positioned to coordinate resistance against the Demonic Sect invasion.


    "If me Departing Pce is willing to relocate, my Endless Sect will facilitate support from various sects and provide resources. If you¡¯re unwilling, I have other candidates in mind."


    Chu Tianfeng did not press the issue.


    "I intend to recuperate in Jing Kingdom for a few years before moving west to join friends in the ''Seven Kingdoms Alliance.''"


    Seeing that Chu Tianfeng was not a deceitful person, Master Lihuo chose to be open.


    This region had brought him to such a miserable state, and with his lifespan running short, he had lost his will to stay.


    All he wanted now was to preserve his lineage and pass on his Dao.


    "The Seven Kingdoms Alliance is indeed strong, but they are currently under attack from two of the Demonic Sects. Fellow Daoist Lihuo, by going there, you could contribute to the resistance."


    Chu Tianfeng sighed.


    The Seven Kingdoms Alliancey west of the Jing and Chen Kingdoms, separated by a barren wastnd dotted with mundane nations.


    In the Seven Kingdoms Alliance,mercial power was more influential, while sects had weakened to the point of near extinction.


    Each of the seven nations at least had one Nascent Soul cultivator, and the Alliance itself was led by a mid-stage Nascent Soul figure.


    The Jing Kingdom''s Merchant Alliance had actually modeled itself after the Seven Kingdoms Alliance, with some of its guilds originating from there.


    Unfortunately, they hadn¡¯t fully replicated the structure. In Jing Kingdom, the Merchant Alliance and the sects were still at odds.


    Jing Kingdom had applied multiple times to join the Seven Kingdoms Alliance to form an Eight Nations Alliance.


    But, unfortunately, the Seven Kingdoms Alliance wasn¡¯t interested.


    The reasons were both distance and Jing Kingdom¡¯s rtive weakness, as itcked a fourth-rank spiritual vein.


    Master Lihuo might not want to remain in this bleak ce, or perhaps he saw more promise in the Seven Kingdoms Alliance, which was why he chose that path.


    In truth, he didn¡¯t have many options.


    Liang Kingdom was situated in the northern part of the Eastern Region of Great Qing.


    To the southwesty the expansion path of the Six Demonic Sects.


    To the north, past the ck Fog Mountain Range and Liuyun Sect, was an endless desert with harsh conditions and scarce spiritual veins, where outside forces struggled to establish a foothold.


    To the westy the Jing Kingdom and the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    To the east was an endless toxic swamp filled with venomous creatures, extremely perilous.


    Beyond thaty the territories of the Five Poisons Sect and Thousand Mechanisms Sect¡ªtwo forces even the Six Demonic Sects hesitated to provoke.


    Thus, with the demonic tide sweeping through, there were few ces in the Eastern Region of Great Qing that offered any safety.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Chu, you bear a heavy responsibility, attempting to unify the surrounding countries to resist the invasion of the Six Demonic Sects. This humble Daoist admires your resolve and vision."


    Before parting, Master Lihuo observed that Chu Tianfeng was indeed allowing him to leave, and he felt admiration for his magnanimity.


    He decided to speak candidly.


    "The Six Demonic Sects taking control of the Eastern Region of Great Qing and bing its rulers might well be the future trend, an irreversible one."


    "Oh? Does Fellow Daoist Lihuo have any advice?" Chu Tianfeng¡¯s expression remained calm.


    "In this humble Daoist¡¯s opinion, there are only two possible ways to resist the Six Demonic Sects."


    "First, seek assistance from the Ten Great Sects of the Central Region."


    "Second, have someone in the Eastern Region reach the Nascent Soulte stage."


    After hearing this, Chu Tianfeng¡¯s brow furrowed in slight disappointment.


    "Seeking help from the Ten Great Sects has already been attempted by other fallen cultivation forces."


    "Three hundred years ago, the head of the righteous path from the Central Region¡ªa Nascent Soul Great Cultivator¡ªled the Ten Great Sects to defeat the Six Demonic Sects, which pushed them into the Eastern Region."


    "Now, that righteous leader has vanished, and the Ten Great Sects are in disarray, riddled with internal conflicts. They are not worth relying on."


    Chu Tianfeng had little hope for the Ten Great Sects.


    Perhaps the Six Demonic Sects¡¯ eastward expansion was apromise following their defeat by the Ten Great Sects.


    As for the second method, producing ate-stage Nascent Soul cultivator¡­


    The Eastern Region hadn¡¯t seen a local cultivator reach thete Nascent Soul stage in millennia.


    Although he was at the mid Nascent Soul stage and held sway over several countries, ate Nascent Soul cultivator would be an entirely new level¡ªrenowned throughout the entire Heaven Honoured Continent.


    Moreover, the Great Qing might struggle to retain such a powerful figure.


    It was said that upon reaching thete Nascent Soul stage, one would draw the attention of the continent''s top powers.


    Such a cultivator would even attract offers from the Sacred Lands of Central State or the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty.


    After bidding farewell to Master Lihuo, Chu Tianfeng transformed into a white streak of light, piercing the sky and ascending to the Nine Fiery Heavens where ordinary cultivators could not step their feet into, ignoring the astral wind that pulverized gold and shattered iron.


    After a moment.


    His deep, prating gaze turned toward a certain direction on the Jing Kingdom border.


    The group of demonic cultivators led by Liang Shaotian, hidden within a barrier, was swiftly located by his spiritual sense.


    "The Xuan Yin Demonic Sect was once one of the seven pirs of the demonic path, butter splintered, leaving only the Six Demonic Sects."


    "Before the Six Demonic Sects invade, they might try to recruit the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect through the ''Unseen Gate.''"


    "Liang Shaotian, the sect leader of this Demonic Sect, is incredibly lucky. With just a high-grade spiritual root, he has reached such heights, and he possesses extraordinary talent, having mastered the ck Dipper Demonic me. Given time, if he reaches the Nascent Soul stage, he might even contend with a mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator."


    At this moment, Chu Tianfeng faced a choice: to eliminate this rising demonic talent before he could grow any further.


    Inside the concealed barrier, Liang Shaotian, who was meditating to heal his wounds, suddenly opened his pitch-ck eyes.


    "Hiss! Damn it! Why did it suddenly get so cold?"


    In the corner, Xiang Jinglong, who had bandages wrapped around his arm, shrank back, shivering.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    Qingsha Bay, Autumnwind Isle.


    Above the residence, a vortex of spiritual energy in the heavens slowly dissipated, apanied by a faint glow of auspicious clouds.


    "Fortunately, there were no special phenomena upon advancing to the next realm with her innate Dao physique."


    Lan Chang''an sat in the courtyard, observing the entire Foundation Establishment process of Xia Wenyue.


    Inside the cultivation chamber, Xia Wenyue''s body was encased in a crystallineyer of ice, making her resemble an ice sculpture of a goddess.


    This was a unique phenomenon caused by cultivating the Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll.


    The Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll was the core technique of an extinct Nascent Soul sect from Lan Chang''an''s previous life in the Great Kun region, possessing unique attributes. Each major breakthrough would encase the user in ice, undergoing a transformative rebirth.


    Additionally, the Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll contained a mysterious ice-sealing technique that allowed one to enter a state of eternal ice-seal.


    Even cultivators with far superior power would struggle to break through it directly.


    In this eternal ice-seal state, the loss of life force would be significantly slowed.


    The Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll had stringent aptitude requirements, but Xia Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique was a perfect match, and the technique amplified her spiritual energy.


    Crack!


    The ice around Xia Wenyue shattered, and her robes fell apart, revealing skin as wless as snow.


    Her eyes, which opened with a cold glimmer, softened to a gentle radiance as she showed her joy at her sess.


    Noticing her tattered clothes, her cheeks flushed as she quickly retrieved a new robe.


    "Master Lan promised to watch over my Foundation Establishment in secret. There shouldn¡¯t be any way he saw... Besides, Master Lan is a gentleman," she reassured herself before channeling her spiritual energy to stabilize her new cultivation level.


    As a gentleman, Lan Chang''an averted his gaze immediately.


    Since he didn''t consider the nurturing route, he held no personal interest in Xia Wenyue.


    In this life, Lan Chang''an was determined not to consider marriage until he reached the Nascent Soul Realm.


    However, as an immortal cultivator with a long life, he didn¡¯t reject the idea of fleeting, consensual rtionships.


    With Xia Wenyue''s talent and potential, her future was destined for greatness, and he wouldn''t want to risk her reputation.


    Even if she didn¡¯t mind, it could invite jealousy and trouble for Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    Half a monthter, the Xia Family held a Foundation Establishment ceremony for Xia Wenyue. It was rtively low-key, without excessive fanfare.


    Nheless, the ceremony drew many guests to Qingsha Bay.


    Apart from cultivators from the five major families of the Wufu Merchant Association, representatives from partner guilds also attended.


    Lan Chang''an, as Xia Wenyue¡¯s nominal medical teacher, could not decline the invitation.


    He was given a seat of honor beside Patriarch Xia Hongyu.


    During the celebration, Lan Chang''an enjoyed numerous toasts with spirit wine, conversing with Patriarch Xia Hongyu.


    Many attendees came to congratte, some of whom brought alongpanions, making it inevitable that a few unfamiliar faces were mixed in.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that certain guests discreetly observed Xia Wenyue or tried to pry information from Xia Family members during the festivities.


    This was unavoidable.


    Lan Chang''an and the Xia Patriarch chose to let things unfold naturally.


    Fortunately, Xia Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique wouldn¡¯t reveal any peculiarities in a casual setting unless she actively disyed her abilities.


    ...


    That evening, after drinking a fair amount of spirit wine, Lan Chang''an returned to his residence on Autumnwind Isle.


    The earth rat spirit beast, who had indulged in fine food and drink during the ceremony, was now sleeping soundly in a cer somewhere.


    It could have the day off.


    As he stepped into the master bedroom from the courtyard, Lan Chang''an noticed something strange in the shifting shadows on the floor.


    "Lan Chang''an, your secret is out!"


    A deep, raspy voice of a mysterious man echoed from the shadows within the room.

 Chapter 247: The Threat of the Unseen Gate

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    In the corner of the room, a figure cloaked in a gray-white robe appeared, with his back turned toward Lan Chang''an. Embroidered on the back of the robe was the image of an ethereal, illusory gate.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart sank. Though he hadn¡¯t been particrly vignt, it was only upon entering the room that he realized the presence of this stranger.


    In that brief moment, he couldn''t discern the true nature of this mysterious figure. The man¡¯s confidence was evident¡ªhe had his back turned, suggesting he saw no threat from Lan Chang''an.


    "Lan Chang''an, your secret is out!"


    The man¡¯s voice, muffled by the hood, carried a chilling, soul-prating power.


    "Your Excellency, to which secret are you referring?" Lan Chang''an asked cautiously, feigning calmness.


    After all, he had plenty of skeletons in his closet and no idea which one hade to light.


    He hadmitted numerous ndestine acts: assassinating Alchemist Hua, eliminating the Huang Family¡¯s Foundation Establishment cultivator, taking down the grandson of a me Departing Pce Elder, and deflecting suspicion onto the demonic sect or Xiang Jinglong.Not to mention, impersonating Junior Brother Cheng to exchange the inferior pill with Fu Xuemei, and in the ancient ruins, causing the deaths of two Fake Dan cultivators to secure the Xuanmu Vine and other rare treasures.


    After arriving in Jing Kingdom, he¡¯d even killed Huxiao Immortal of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association under his alternate identity as "Xiang Immortal," and maintained secret ties with Hanyu of the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    "Which secret, indeed?" the hooded man sneered, his eyes narrowing.


    Lan Chang''an hasmitted so many offenses, and he doesn¡¯t even have a clue which one?


    The man let out a cold snort, thinking to himself that cultivators like Lan Chang''an, who clung to slim hopes, would quickly crumble down when faced with irrefutable evidence.


    "Over ten years ago, you were leaving the Mu Family estate by Feiyue Lake on a turtle, when you encountered a scouting team from the Golden Sun Sect that had infiltrated Liang Kingdom. Among them was Mu Jiuan, the son of an old friend of yours."


    "At that time, you killed three Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Golden Sun Sect!"


    "Now that the cultivation war has ended and the Golden Sun Sect has relocated north to upy Liang Kingdom, you must be aware of the consequences of this¡­ ''settling of ounts.''"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s face showed a flicker of surprise but quickly rxed.


    The incident where he killed several Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Golden Sun Sect had urred during the war. Since arriving in Jing Kingdom, he¡¯d monitored the situation closely, discovering that he had not been put on any wanted list, nor had word spread about the incident. Moreover, Li Erqing¡¯s letters, sent through his grandson, hadn¡¯t mentioned it either.


    He¡¯d long since confirmed that Mu Jiuan and the others had collectively chosen to bury the disgraceful affair. At that time, their infiltration of enemy territory was risky enough. The loss of a few cultivators could easily be reported as war casualties, allowing the sect to provide generouspensation to their families. ?


    "Is Your Excellency a spy from the Golden Sun Sect?" Lan Chang''an asked, his eyes narrowing.


    "Golden Sun Sect? No!" The hooded man replied with a slight scoff.


    Lan Chang''an cursed inwardly: The Golden Sun Sect itself hasn¡¯t pursued this, so why should it concern you?


    He saw right through the man¡¯s intentions¡ªit was nothing more than a ploy to ckmail him.


    If he were an ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator, the threat of a Golden Sun Sect bounty might have terrified him. But to Lan Chang''an, this was, at worst, a minor inconvenience¡ªnot a life-threatening crisis.


    During the war, the Golden Sun Sect had lost countless cultivators. Theycked the resources to pursue every vendetta meticulously. Minor casualties on the battlefield were typically brushed aside unless the deceased were of particr importance. Even when it came to revenge, it was often a personal vendetta carried out by individual cultivators or turned into a sect mission, handled by junior members.


    It was impossible they¡¯d send a Nascent Soul or Core Formation cultivator to hunt him down for such a trivial matter, right?


    At most, Lan Chang''an might encounter a few Fake Dan cultivators, or, if his luck was particrly poor, an early Core Formation expert.


    "Is this the matter you¡¯re referring to?" Lan Chang''an asked, feigning indifference.


    The hooded man frowned, sensing that Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t the least bit flustered.


    Was this information alone not enough to shake him? It made sense; Lan Chang''an had considerable means of self-preservation and might believe that, as long as the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s pursuit wasn¡¯t too intense, he could always relocate and assume a new identity.


    "Of course, this isn¡¯t the only matter," the hooded man said, finally turning around. Beneath the shadow of the hood, a faintly sinister smile appeared.


    "Years ago, you and Fairy Shi entered an ancient ruin together. She emerged from the ruin and soon became a third-rank formation master, while you slipped away alone to Jing Kingdom."


    "Though the ruin copsed, did you think we¡¯d be unaware of the treasures you obtained there?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart skipped a beat, but he kept his expression neutral.


    "And what exactly did I obtain?" he asked calmly.


    "You stole a Core Formation opportunity and several priceless treasures, breaking off ties with Fairy Shi afterward!" The hooded man sneered, watching for any reaction from Lan Chang''an.


    "What Core formation opportunity? That¡¯s absurd!" Lan Chang''an eximed, his tone betraying a hint of panic as he hastily denied the usation.


    The hooded man, seeing this reaction, grew even more confident.


    Internally, Lan Chang''an let out a sigh of relief. It seemed this man¡¯s organization had solid intelligence on the first incident but was only specting about the second.


    The ancient ruin¡¯s core copse was likely orchestrated by Fairy Shi herself after she left, which worked to Lan Chang''an¡¯s advantage, preventing any further secrets from leaking. As for the "Core formation opportunity," even if it were true, it wasn¡¯t of much value to the powerful forces. Lan Chang''an¡¯s own strength, along with his Great Demon protector, provided ample cover for such gains.


    ¡­


    "Lan Chang''an, killing Golden Sun Sect cultivators and seizing a Core formation opportunity from the ancient ruins¡ªif these matters were to be public knowledge, do you think you could continue to y your luck?"


    With these words, the hooded man released a faintly oppressive aura.


    Indeed, just killing Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Golden Sun Sect wouldn¡¯t warrant a full-scale pursuit. But adding the theft of a Core formation opportunity would undoubtedly turn him into a prime target for the sect, drawing the attention of other cultivators eager for the reward.


    "Hmm, so you¡¯re only at the Fake Dan stage?" Lan Chang''an remarked, detecting the man¡¯s true cultivation level from the slight fluctuation in spiritual energy.


    This guy¡¯s quite the actor!


    Lan Chang''an thought, having initially suspected that the stranger might be a genuine Core Formation expert.


    The hooded man was exceptionally skilled at concealing his aura, enough to even fool early-stage Core Formation cultivators if he held back his power.


    Lan Chang''an, though usually cautious, had lowered his guard that day due to the Foundation Establishment celebration for Xia Wenyue, and even his pet, the Earth Burrowing Rat, was off enjoying food and drink. The hooded man had clearly taken advantage of the bustling celebration to slip onto Autumnwind Isle, hoping to ckmail Lan Chang''an.


    "And who exactly are you? What is it you want me to do?" Lan Chang''an asked after a pause, his expression darkening.


    "I am an emissary from the Unseen Gate, one of the Six Great Sacred Sects, here to recruit you as an external member of our organization," the man replied, sping his hands behind his back with a faint smile.


    "Lan Chang''an, this is a rare honor for you."


    Unseen Gate? Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind raced.


    From the mention of the Six Great Sacred Sects, he guessed this organization was likely part of the infamous Six Demonic Sects, each of which wielded far greater power than ordinary Nascent Soul sects like the me Departing Pce or Golden Sun Sect.


    A sense of wariness crept into his heart.


    Why would the Six Demonic Sects take an interest in me, and why would the Unseen Gate, in particr, go out of their way to target me?


    This was indeed troublesome.


    "What exactly does your sect see in me?" he asked, his toneced with reluctance.


    "Because you have a reputation as a ¡®good old man,¡¯ with awork of connections. You¡¯ve integrated well into Jing Kingdom, have ties with a third-rank formation master from Liang Kingdom, and even maintain a friendship with Zhang Tieshan, the Core Formation Elder who recently returned to Golden Cloud Valley."


    "You, with your facade of benevolence, and now under our thumb, make the perfect candidate for an informant," the man exined bluntly.


    Typically, a loose cultivator like Lan Chang''an, unaffiliated with any sect andcking firm loyalties, would be easy to sway into serving the Unseen Gate.


    In time, once he experienced the might of the Six Demonic Sects and saw them conquer various cultivation factions, he would naturally be a loyal member of the Unseen Gate.


    "So, the Unseen Gate intends to force me into servitude?" Lan Chang''an asked coldly.


    "You could put it that way. This is your chance to change your fate," the hooded man replied condescendingly.


    "I have always despised being threatened," Lan Chang''an replied, his gaze shifting toward the room¡¯s exit.


    An invisible barrier of dark light had enveloped the room, cutting them off from the outside world.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was tunneling underground, making its way over, but it would take a few more moments.


    "Don¡¯t think of escaping! This formation can withstand even a Fake Dan level battle without alerting anyone outside."


    "Today, you have only two choices: submit to the Unseen Gate¡­ or die!"


    Before he finished speaking, a streak of dark, electric-gray light shot toward Lan Chang''an with blinding speed.


    The sudden attack caught him off guard, and even his quasi-third-rank body couldn¡¯t entirely evade it.


    sh!


    Thete Foundation Establishment level protective shield around Lan Chang''an¡¯s body shattered, and he felt a numbness in his shoulder as his mana was disrupted.


    "A binding technique?"


    His mana was partially sealed, but the vitality of his Evergreen mana quickly began to counteract the restriction.


    At the same time, Lan Chang''an activated a quasi-third-rank talisman, enveloping himself in a thick barrier of crystalline blue water.


    "Good reflexes," the hooded manmented, his form blurring before vanishing entirely, leaving only a phantom in his ce.


    Shing¡ª


    A shadowy de materialized from the void, cutting through the protective water barrier as if it were paper.


    Lan Chang''an was shocked by the hooded man¡¯s skill. This assassin from the Unseen Gate, though only at the Fake Dan stage, possessed killing techniques potent enough to threaten even an early-stage Core Formation cultivator in a surprise attack.


    The shadowy de, pulsing with cold blue light, sliced into Lan Chang''an¡¯s side¡ª


    But then¡­


    The de met with unexpected resistance, halting after barely cutting through his robe.


    Crack!


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s body expanded, muscles bulging, emanating an overwhelming aura of physical strength. Raising his elbow, he struck backward with all his might.


    The sound of splintering wood echoed through the room.


    Boom!


    The hooded man coughed up blood as he was flung across the room, crashing against the wall of the restrictive barrier.


    "A Foundation Establishment cultivator with body refinement at the Fake Dan level?!"


    The hooded man¡¯s eyes widened in shock as he flew through the air, immediately realizing his mistake.


    "To dare capture this Lan in close quarters," Lan Chang''an sneered. "It seems your Unseen Gate¡¯s intelligence isn¡¯t as thorough as you think?"

 Chapter 248: The Uncrowned King

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    ¡°Damn you, Turtle Talisman Master! You''ve hidden yourself this deeply¡­¡±


    The hooded man coughed up blood as he fell from the wall, his deep-set eyes growing even colder.


    If not for the soft armor he wore beneath his robes,bined with the protection of his Core power shielding his organs, that simple elbow strike would have done more than just leave him seriously injured.


    Within the hooded man, his Core power surged, his aura spiking as he began to unleash a powerful secret technique.


    Suddenly, his body swayed, his head spinning as dark green blood oozed from the corner of his mouth.


    ¡°When¡­ did you poison me?¡±


    The hooded man barely managed to steady himself, his voice tinged with fear as he no longer dared to recklessly circte his energy.


    Since the moment Lan Chang''an had entered the room, he had been fully aware of his presence, not detecting any sign of a poisoning attempt.¡°Hehe, I¡¯ve had a hidden poison barrier set up in the hiddenyer of this room for years. The moment any foreign energy waves prate it, the poison silently disperses,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a light chuckle, an amused look on his face.


    The poison he used was the degraded, expired third-rank toxin he had acquired from the ancient ruin.


    The more injured one was, the faster the poison would spread once they circted their energy.


    Back in the day, even the formidable Tan Immortal was slowly worn down by this poison within the ruins.


    ¡°Bleh!¡±


    The hooded man¡¯s blood surged again, and he spat out another mouthful of poisoned blood.


    Fury filled him. Who poisons their own bedroom like this? Was Lan Chang''an not afraid of poisoning himself?


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s Evergreen Technique granted him a superb ability to resist and neutralize poison, so he wasn¡¯t worried about harming himself. This ability had already been proven years ago in the Mu family¡¯s medicinal garden.


    ¡°Break!¡±


    The hooded man quickly formed a hand seal and pointed toward the wall, releasing the istion barrier he had set up.


    At the same time, he gripped a talisman in his other hand, channeling his Core power for protection, and threw himself against the wall.


    The hooded man was seriously injured and poisoned. Even if he managed to kill Lan Chang''an in this struggle, he might not survive the encounter himself.


    As long as he could break through the wall, he could activate the third-rank Wind Escape Talisman in his hand and flee from the Xia Family¡¯s territory.


    Bang!


    The hooded man¡¯s body hit the wall as if it were an iron fortress, his head splitting open, blood streaming down as stars filled his vision.


    ¡°Aaagh!¡±


    With a miserable scream, the hooded man slumped, unconscious.


    In his final moments of awareness, he couldn¡¯t understand why the walls of this seemingly ordinary room had be indestructible.


    With the strength he used, even a second-rank stone should have shattered on impact.


    Squeak!


    Arge rat demon, about the size of a small dog, emerged from the floor andzily burped, smelling faintly of wine.


    The walls surrounding the room, previously coated with an earthy-yellow crystalline pattern, gradually dimmed and faded away.


    Lan Chang''an flicked out two talisman seals, sticking them to the hooded man¡¯s chest and abdomen.


    After confirming everything was secure, Lan Chang''an crouched down and took the third-rank escape talisman from the man¡¯s hand.


    While searching his body, he found a few other trinkets.


    ¡°Hm?¡±


    After a while, Lan Chang''an pulled a thin, almost transparent mask from the hooded man¡¯s face, revealing a somewhat ugly face underneath.


    Infusing it with a bit of energy, faint blue patterns appeared on the mask¡¯s surface.


    A sense of familiarity struck Lan Chang''an, prompting him to take out his own Hundred Illusions Mask andpare the two.


    After a preliminary inspection, he found that the hooded man¡¯s mask seemed like a lower-end version of his Hundred Illusions Mask.


    It could disguise one¡¯s appearance, simte the aura, and conceal their cultivation, though its effectiveness was much weaker.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re from the Unseen Gate¡­¡± Lan Chang''an muttered thoughtfully.


    ¡­


    Sometimeter, Xing Peng awoke from unconsciousness to find himself in a dimly lit basement.


    All of his mana was sealed, his body and limbs tightly bound by sturdy metal chains, leaving him barely able to move.


    His personal belongings, including his storage pouch, were nowhere to be found.


    ¡°Speak honestly, and I may leave you alive,¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s familiar voice sounded nearby.


    Soon, the familiar figure of the white-robed man came into view.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, everyone in the Unseen Gate is a dead soldier. We do not fear death!¡± Xing Peng sneered arrogantly, defiance etched across his face.


    ¡°If you dare to kill this seat, you won¡¯t escape the Unseen Gate¡¯s and the Six Sacred Gates¡¯ relentless pursuit.¡±


    Despite his life being in Lan Chang''an¡¯s hands, Xing Peng¡¯s pride and arrogance remained unbroken.


    ¡°A mere Fake Dan dares to call himself ¡®this seat¡¯?¡± Lan Chang''an scoffed, sneering at the man¡¯s bravado even in the face of death.


    He had recently gathered some information on the Unseen Gate, one of the six great demonic sects. It was said to be the most mysterious and terrifying of them all.


    Even if one managed to capture an agent of the Unseen Gate, extracting information was nearly impossible, often leading to the captives taking their own lives.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll grant you a swift end.¡±


    Lan Chang''an made up his mind. He would kill Xing Peng here in his own residence to avoid implicating the Xia Family of Qingsha Bay.


    Dumping the body elsewhere would be pointless.


    After all, he was already in the Unseen Gate¡¯s sights, and Xing Peng¡¯s mission likely involved superiors and aplices.


    For a Fake Dan cultivator like this, it was likely his sect had set up a soulmp for him.


    The moment he died, or if he failed to report back after a set time, it would alert the sect¡¯s backup forces.


    Whoosh!


    Lan Chang''an sprinkled some dark red powder over Xing Peng¡¯s body.


    Once the powder was absorbed, it would begin to incinerate on its own, with a half-day dy.


    ¡°Unseen Gate can''t be messed with! This is my chance to escape, before Xing Peng¡¯s superiors notice anything, I¡¯ll leave Jing Kingdom and head to the vast and resource-rich Feng Kingdom. With Chu Tianfeng True Monarch, the top cultivator in the surrounding nations, holding down the fort, even the Unseen Gate wouldn¡¯t dare act recklessly there.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was confident that with his Evergreen Technique and Hundred Illusions Mask, he could carry out his escape n sessfully.


    No matter how formidable the Unseen Gate was, it was still only one sect, and to infiltrate multiple neighboring countries, the distribution of manpower in each territory was definitely limited.


    Thud!


    Just as Lan Chang''an reached the door of the chamber, a sound came from behind him.


    ¡°Master Lan, I¡­ I admit my mistake!¡±


    The hooded man was on his knees, pleading, tears and snot streaming down his face in desperation.


    Lan Chang''an paused, stunned.


    The Unseen Gate was rumored to be full of dead warriors, and this man had shown such unbreakable pride, seemingly unafraid of death.


    This sudden reversal left Lan Chang''an momentarily at a loss.


    This guy was really good at pretending.


    From the very beginning, Lan Chang''an had been deceived by his mysterious and imposing demeanor.


    ¡°I preferred your defiant attitude,¡± Lan Chang''an remarked, both amused and exasperated, as he stepped forward and kicked the man.


    The hooded man looked up with a ttering smile, shamelessly saying, ¡°As long as Master Lan likes it, Xing Peng can act that way for you anytime.¡±


    Lan Chang''an rxed slightly; if the hooded man feared death, then things would be much easier to handle.


    A n began to form in his mind.


    If he could go along with this man¡¯s n and be an outer contact for the Unseen Gate, he could not only avert the immediate crisis but also have a steady flow of intelligence in the future.


    After all, Lan Chang''an¡¯s Hundred Illusions Mask was of far higher quality than the hooded man¡¯s mask, making it perfect for slipping under the radar and blending in.


    As long as he kept a low profile and avoided high-ranking members of the Unseen Gate, he could maintain his cover for a long time.


    ¡­


    "From now on, I''ll ask, and you answer. If you dare lie, I¡¯ll kill you on the spot and flee to another country."


    "Yes, yes, Master Lan," the hooded man replied obediently, his demeanorpletely deferential.


    "Actually, how about this," he offered. "I can open my mind willingly so you can use a soul-searching spell on me. That way, I won¡¯t be able to lie. However, certain information about the Unseen Gate is protected by restrictions, so I won¡¯t be able to answer those questions."


    "Very well."


    Lan Chang''an cast a soul-searching spell on the hooded man, who had fully opened his mind to the process.


    His powerful spiritual sense, superior to a Fake Dan cultivator, made him confident that this man couldn¡¯t deceive him.


    "First, tell me your position within the organization."


    "This seat is Xing Peng!" The man announced with pride. "An Incense Master under Shadow Hall Chief¡¯smand in the Liang Kingdom branch of the Unseen Gate."


    Under the influence of the soul-searching spell, the hooded man resumed his haughty, mysterious manner, as if he were above everyone.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit speechless at the change.


    "Why aren¡¯t you based in the Jing Kingdom branch?"


    "Jing Kingdom is just a small cultivation nation. It¡¯s directly overseen by the branch chief of Liang Kingdom."


    "What¡¯s the cultivation level of the Liang Kingdom branch chief?"


    "Late Core Formation."


    "And your Shadow Hall Chief, what¡¯s his level?"


    "Mid Core Formation."


    After a few more questions, Lan Chang''an gained a rough understanding of the Unseen Gate''s organizational structure.


    Each mid-tier cultivation nation was overseen by a branch chief at thete Core Formation stage, responsible for intelligence, infiltration, and subversion.


    Below the branch chief were the Hall Chiefs, who each managed a specific region or specialized duty.


    For example, in Jing Kingdom, which Xing Peng was familiar with, there were three Hall Chiefs, each responsible for a different area: the local sects, the Merchant Alliance, and the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect.


    Lan Chang''an was a bit surprised that a Hall Chief specifically managed the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect.


    Below each Hall Chief were multiple Incense Masters, typically either early Core Formation cultivators or, like Xing Peng, Fake Dan cultivators with exceptional skills.


    Due to Jing Kingdom¡¯s weak strength, most of the Incense Masters there were only at the Fake Dan level.


    "If you stayed in Qingsha Bay for a few more days, would it rm your subordinates or attract suspicion from the Shadow Hall Chief?"


    "A few days would be fine. My status under the Shadow Hall Chief is rather special, so my tasks are more flexible."


    "Oh? And why are you treated with such privilege?"


    "Because the Shadow Hall Chief is this seat''s elder cousin."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an finally understood; this guy was well-connected.


    With a cousin at the mid-Core Formation stage backing him, it was no wonder he had such a strange attitude.


    It seemed that, since Jing Kingdom¡¯s tasks weren¡¯t particrly demanding, Xing Peng had been given a loose assignment, allowing him to operate as he pleased. He was essentially coasting through his duties.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but sigh¡ªanyrge organization inevitably umtes some freeloaders just going through the motions.


    "Why did you target Lan Chang''an?" he asked.


    "Lan Chang''an was marked by the branch as a cultivator worth recruiting or subverting, as he posed low risk."


    "And why did he make it onto your list?"


    "His friend, Fairy Shi, is a talented formation master suspected of having inherited an ancient formation inheritance. Another friend, Zhang Tieshan, recently seeded in transforming his dan back into liquid, which might lead him to achieve an upper-tier True Dan. There are rumors that he has a Nascent Soul True Monarch behind him. These two could pose a problem during the future invasion of the Sacred Sect."


    "What¡¯s the origin of the mask you¡¯re wearing?"


    "This mask is called the ¡®Green Face.¡¯ It¡¯s only granted to those who hold a certain status within the Unseen Gate or who have earned notable achievements."


    "Are there other types of masks with different ranks?"


    "Yes, from lowest to highest, they are White Face, Green Face, Blue Face, Purple Face, and the legendary ¡®Faceless.¡¯"


    "Faceless?"


    "The Faceless mask is the supreme treasure of the Unseen Gate, worn only by the sect master. Its wearer is regarded as the Uncrowned King."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 249: The Descent of the Second Life

    Chapter 249: The Descent of the Second Life


    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an ended his soul-searching interrogation.


    Most of the sensitive information regarding the Unseen Gate within Xing Peng''s memory was sealed by restrictive spells, making it impossible to disclose.


    Even so, the small glimpse Lan Chang''an had gained was terrifying enough.


    "Within a decade or so, the Six Demonic Sects will invade the neighboring cultivation countries."


    This revtion was Xing Peng''s personal assessment, but it was unlikely to be far from the truth.


    After all, before the Six Demonic Sectsunched their invasions, they would always send the Unseen Gate ahead to infiltrate, gather intelligence, subvert targets, and establish insiders.


    The Unseen Gate had already been infiltrating the cultivation nations around Feng Kingdom for years.


    Xing Peng emerged from his trance and opened his eyes. "M-Master Lan! Have you finished your questioning?""Yes, and it seems your mission was self-initiated, without reporting to the Shadow Hall Chief?"


    "Correct! You were just one of many targets on my list. I nned toplete the mission first and then report back to my elder cousin to earn credit."


    "However, I do have two Foundation Establishment underlings who helped me gather intelligence on you. They may have a faint suspicion, but nothing concrete."


    Xing Peng¡¯s two Foundation Establishment underlings were busy individuals, handling the grunt work for him.


    As long as Xing Peng didn¡¯t die or send out a distress signal within seven days, no other Unseen Gate agents from the Shadow Hall would be alerted.


    Given this, Lan Chang''an reconsidered his n.


    Joining the Unseen Gate didn''t necessarily mean he had to use his own identity, Lan Chang''an.


    If his association with the Unseen Gate was ever exposed, it would leave him with no ce to stand in any of the nearby cultivation nations.


    The safest option would be to create an alias.


    Alternatively, he could simply control Xing Peng.


    Using the Hundred Illusions Mask, Lan Chang''an could perfectly imitate Xing Peng¡¯s aura and appearance, making it difficult for anyone who wasn¡¯t intimately familiar with him to detect the difference.


    Although Xing Peng wasn¡¯t a high-ranking member of the Unseen Gate, as an Incense Master, he was still a core operative who had ess to valuable information.


    Moreover, his elder cousin, the Shadow Hall Chief, was a mid-Core Formation cultivator and a rising star within the Unseen Gate. He was one of the three giants overseeing the Jing Kingdom branch.


    ...


    After finalizing his n, only one problem remained.


    How could he securely control Xing Peng?


    After all, Xing Peng was a Fake Dan cultivator. While he might be a bit of a show-off, his abilities as a spy were formidable.


    Among Fake Dan cultivators Lan Chang''an knew, only Xiang Jinglong and Tan Immortal could rival his strength.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a long time but found the solution elusive.


    Should he make him swear a heart demon oath? However, if this person had no ambitions, a Heart Devil Oath would have little binding effect.


    Setting a restrictive spell?


    Lan Chang''an was in thete Foundation Establishment stage, with spiritual sense on par with a Fake Dan Immortal, so he could set a restrictive spell of that level, though his technique would be a bit more refined.


    However, Xing Peng¡¯s elder cousin was able to remove such a restriction.


    Controlling him with poison?


    Lan Chang''an didn''t possess any particrly potent poison¡ªhis only effective toxin was a degraded third-rank poison, barely potent enough to be useful.


    Besides, the Unseen Gate was notorious for its expertise with poisons, often using them to control their agents and external members.


    As a legitimate member of the Unseen Gate with strong family connections, Xing Peng wasn¡¯t treated as expendable.


    "It seems only my second life¡¯s descent will do."


    A few years ago, Lan Chang''an had obtained a superior-grade third-rank Tong Ghost Bamboo and had considered summoning his second life''s shadow to craft third-rank treasure talisman.


    The descent of his second life was one of his key life-saving measures, with a ten-year cooldown, so he hesitated to use it lightly.


    "A hundred years ago the soul of my first life, at the peak of Qi-Refining, could only descend for a short time."


    "But my second life, at the pinnacle of Core Formation, is hundreds of times stronger. Its duration will undoubtedly be much longer."


    This meant that with the descent of his second life, he could aplish many things over an extended period.


    Not only could he craft treasure talismans in his peak state, but he could also nt a restriction in Xing Peng''s mind.


    A restriction set by the soul of a Core Formation peak cultivator would be nearly impossible to remove for anyone below the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Only then could Xing Peng be truly subdued.


    "Master Lan, when will you let me return? I need to make my report," Xing Peng asked, his tone obsequious.


    "If you¡¯re worried, I¡¯m willing to swear an oath and allow you to set a restriction. I even have leverage within the Unseen Gate that I can offer you..." Xing Peng pleaded, his face full of a desperate smile.


    He was keenly aware that this was the most dangerous moment. Even after obtaining valuable information, Lan Chang''an might still kill him to silence him.


    "There''s no rush, wait for half a day. I¡¯ll summon a senior at thete Core Formation stage to set a restriction on you, so I can feel at ease when you go back to make your report."


    Lan Chang''an smiled mysteriously and waved his hand, drawing the dark red powder out of Xing Peng''s body.


    "Ate Core Formation cultivator?"


    Xing Peng looked uncertain, watching Lan Chang''an¡¯s retreating figure with doubt.


    ording to his intelligence, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t have any connections withte Core Formation cultivators; his closest friends were at best in the early Core Formation stage.


    ...


    A short whileter.


    Lan Chang''an navigated through an underground passage and arrived at the bottom of the deep pond behind his residence.


    He rode on the Profound Water Turtle, traveling a dozen or so zhang through the water, keeping a certain distance from the underwater stone house where the Xuanmu Vine was located.


    Nearby, the Earth Burrowing Rat observed him curiously. His master had summoned him, but he didn¡¯t know why.


    Closing his eyes, Lan Chang''an focused his thoughts to connect with his second life.


    Boom!


    The second frame on the Nine Seal Stele glowed, and the shadow of the white-bearded old man emerged, merging with Lan Chang''an¡¯s current body.


    In an instant, a terrifying spiritual pressure erupted from Lan Chang''an¡¯s form.


    At the bottom of the deep pond, waves churned, forming a vacuum whirlpool centered on him.


    The Profound Water Turtle trembled in fear, not daring to make a sound.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s eyes widened in shock, momentarily frozen before an expression of awe filled its gaze.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an''s spiritual pressure reached the peak of Core Formation, even slightly surpassing that level.


    His aura transformed, exuding an ancient, steady, and almost otherworldly presence.


    After a moment, the terrifying spiritual pressure gradually dissipated.


    Fortunately, he was deep underwater, with formation barriers isting him, preventing any disturbance to the cultivators of Qingsha Bay.


    "The soul of my past life has descended and seamlessly merged with my current body. There¡¯s no rejection whatsoever."


    Operating his Evergreen Technique, Lan Chang''an¡¯s aura gradually returned to its original calm and tranquil state.


    Even if his current body wasn¡¯t at the level of a Fake Dan cultivator, it would be able to withstand the soul descent without any issues.


    Typically, when a high-level cultivator possessed another body, there would be some degree of ipatibility,cking the full harmony of the original.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an''s situation wasn¡¯t a true possession.


    The descent of his past life¡¯s soul merely provided its peak soul power, with no independent consciousness, leaving Lan Chang''an inplete control.


    "Sure enough, the descent of my second life drains soul power very slowly. If I refrain frombat and keep it in a semi-dormant state, it couldst for over a year."


    After half an hour of meditation, Lan Chang''an felt a surge of joy from his findings.


    The difference between his first and second Lives was enormous.


    Moreover, during the first life¡¯s descent, he had faced off against Liang Shaotian and had overextended himself using a powerful soul technique, leading to its brief duration.


    Now, with his second life in a semi-dormant state, his aura returned to normal, making it impossible for external observers to detect the hidden power within him.


    ...


    Back at his residence.


    In the talisman-making chamber, Lan Chang''an picked up a talisman brush. With the aid of his second life''s soul, he casually sketched a few second-rank talismans to warm up.


    The resulting talismans were all of superior quality, some even exceeding the norm for their rank.


    "The peak state of my previous life is intoxicating..."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s face showed a hint of nostalgia.


    However, even drawing second-rank talismans caused the soul power of his past life to drain at a much faster rate¡ªover ten times the usual speed!


    "I can¡¯t waste it. Time to start drawing the treasure talismans."


    Refocusing himself, Lan Chang''an took out two pieces of third-rank spirit wood, one long and one short.


    One was a mid-grade third-rank spirit wood, and the other was the superior-grade third-rank Tong Ghost Bamboo.


    With the aid of his second life, his techniques were meticulous and astonishingly precise as he prepared the talisman papers and talisman embryos at a rapid pace.


    Apart from the inevitable losses, there were hardly any mistakes.


    After two hours, Lan Chang''an hadpleted nine treasure talisman embryos.


    In recent years, he had acquired a second-hand low-grade third-rank talisman brush from one of his visits in Cloudsmoke Immortal City, it was quite worn. Normally, he avoided using the third-rank brush due to its wear.


    As for spirit ink, he didn¡¯t have any third-rank spirit ink, so he had to improvise.


    Fortunately, there was a third-rank Great Demon on Autumnwind Isle that had even formed a half-step Golden Dan.


    Blood from such a demon would definitely make for superior quality spirit ink.


    ¡°Master, what are your orders?¡±


    Momentster, the Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from the ground, its young voice sounding obedient.


    "Spare some blood."


    Lan Chang''an smiled warmly.


    ¡°Ah, Master, this is what you mean by ¡®some blood¡¯¡­¡±


    A short whileter, the Earth Burrowing Rat, looking drained and weary, nced at the basin of blood in front of it, its spirit visibly diminished.


    The basin contained dozens of drops of its essence blood, including blood from its heart and vital organs.


    Using essence blood or heart blood was ideal for crafting spirit ink, as regr blood would require arge amount to concentrate adequately.


    ¡°Here¡¯s some Five Element Earth aspensation.¡±


    Lan Chang''an tossed a handful of Five Element Earth to the rat.


    ¡°Thank you, Master.¡±


    The Earth Burrowing Rat''s eyes lit up as it devoured the soil, then quickly burrowed away to recover.


    "Five Element Earth, a universal soil source, is capable of nurturing nearly any spiritual herb and enhancing the quality of magic treasures. I wonder if it can improve spirit ink quality."


    Intrigued, Lan Chang''an decided to experiment by adding a small amount of Five Element Earth to his newly crafted low-grade third-rank spirit ink that was of superior quality due to being the Earth Burrowing Rat''s blood.


    Using a one-twentieth ratio, the quality of the ink improved from low-grade to mid-grade third rank.


    Exceeding this ratio yielded no further improvements.


    "An increase of half a grade¡ªexcellent."


    Satisfied, Lan Chang''an adjusted the remaining ink ordingly and also added in the Five Element Earth in proportion.


    In this way, he stored a jar of third-rank mid-grade spirit ink that could be used for a long time.


    ...


    With the brush, ink, and talisman embryos ready, Lan Chang''an began crafting third-rank treasure talismans.


    After taking a Blood Yang Pill to boost his energy to nearly the Fake Dan level, he set up a spirit-gathering formation and took out some spirit stones.


    Holding mid-grade spirit stones in his hand, Lan Chang''an felt his energy surging to early Core Formation power with his second life¡¯s soul.


    His eyes gleamed, and with the brush in hand, he gracefully traced the symbols on the specially crafted talisman paper.


    The peak state of his past life allowed him to use more advanced techniques, making his strokes seem like celestial inscriptions to an ordinary talisman master.


    After a long period, a third-rank mid-grade Thunderbolt Talisman, emitting a powerful pressure, appeared on the table.


    "A third-rank mid-grade Thunderbolt Talisman."


    Lan Chang''an wiped the sweat from his forehead, nodding in satisfaction.


    Completing it without downgrading was a sess, especially considering his limitations with soul power and brush quality.


    After resting to restore his energy, Lan Chang''an began work on the next talisman.


    Two dayster.


    He sessfully crafted nine third-rank treasure talismans.


    Seven were mid-grade, while two had downgraded to low-grade. Nheless, even thetter were of superior quality within their rank.


    In his past life, Lan Chang''an had been a third-rank superior-grade talisman master, yet even then, he hadn¡¯t achieved a perfect sess rate with mid-grade third-rank talismans.


    "With proper nurturing, these talismans should reach mid-grade third rank, and with time, even superior-grade isn¡¯t impossible."


    Lan Chang''an was satisfied with his sess rate.


    Even after he advanced to Core Formation, these mid-grade third-rank talismans would still be of great use.


    Superior-grade third-rank talismans, in particr, could serve as his trump card.


    At the Core Formation level, small differences in cultivation made a significant impact.


    Especially in thete Core Formation stage, where cultivators could effortlessly kill early Core Formation opponents and were considered elite elders in Nascent Soul sects.


    Lan Chang''an also took out his remaining superior-grade Tong Ghost Bamboo. He knew that crafting superior-grade third-rank talismans with it would be challenging, with a very low sess rate.


    The main reason was that the difference in mana strength was too great, and the talisman brush was alsocking.


    Additionally, the Tong Ghost Bamboo could also be used to refine an excellent wood-element magic treasure.


    "No need to rush; the second life¡¯s soul can persist for a long time."


    Lan Chang''an could sense that the soul of his second life had only drained by a few percent.


    "Oh right, I nearly forgot about him."


    Recalling something, Lan Chang''an took out his Hundred Illusions Mask and ced it over his face.


    With the power of his second life¡¯s soul, in an instant, his appearance, aura, and even his cultivation changed to that of the white-bearded old man at the peak of Core Formation from his past life.

 Chapter 250: Golden Dan Seed

    Chapter 250: Golden Dan Seed


    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    "Late Core Formation!"


    In the dimly lit chamber, Xing Peng, bound by chains, gasped in shock as a white-bearded old man strode in.


    Thud!


    The overwhelming spiritual pressure from the elder crushed him, leaving him paralyzed and slumping to the floor.


    Boom!


    An immensely powerful spiritual force surged forth, hitting Xing Peng like a tidal wave and knocking him unconscious.


    Lan Chang''an walked forward, sat cross-legged, and ced a finger on Xing Peng''s forehead.


    With his eyes closed, he summoned the essence of his past life¡¯s soul and nted a restriction within Xing Peng''s sea of consciousness.To be precise, the current Lan Chang''an was a fusion of his present soul and the soul essence of his past life, making his spiritual strength even greater than at his previous peak.


    In this time, Lan Chang''an had incorporated a little bit of the principles of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu''s ¡°Gu Insect restriction¡± into the restriction he had nted.


    Years ago, when Zhou Qingxuan had been afflicted with a soul-seizing Gu by the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, Lan Chang''an had studied the spell, grasping its basic principles.


    Moreover, after the Nine Seal Stele devoured the sub-Gu of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, he¡¯d absorbed some fragmented memories from it.


    As a result, the restriction he now nted was far more profound and bizarre than anything he had mastered in his previous life.


    With the secret key in his possession, it would be nearly impossible for anyone at the same cultivation level to break this restriction.


    Breaking the restriction was difficult, but activating it to destroy the target was easy.


    As the one who¡¯d cast the spell and possessing the secret key, Lan Chang''an could even remotely activate the restriction within a certain range, ensuring Xing Peng''s death.


    "Elder, you are...?"


    Xing Peng slowly regained consciousness, feeling a throbbing pain in his sea of consciousness. He quickly realized that an incredibly potent restriction had been ced within his mind.


    This level of restriction was beyond his cousin, the Shadow Hall Chief, and even the branch chief responsible for an entire cultivation country of the Unseen Gate wouldn¡¯t be able to break it.


    "Be good," came the elderly voice. The white-bearded old man before him vanished into thin air.


    Half an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an, dressed in his usual white robes, walked in, holding a token in his hand. He activated the token with a hand seal.


    Sss! Aaaah!


    A searing pain, as if his very brain were being seared, erupted within Xing Peng¡¯s sea of consciousness, leaving him writhing on the floor in agony, clutching his head.


    "Hmm, it seems Elder Xuan''s methods are quite effective," Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile, putting away the token.


    "From now on, if you leave a range of ten thousand li from me, the restriction will automatically activate, destroying your sea of consciousness. Any movements beyond three thousand li must also be reported in advance."


    "Yes, Master Lan."


    Xing Peng¡¯s face was ashen, cold sweat dripping down his forehead as he knelt submissively.


    With such a restriction ced on his sea of consciousness and Lan Chang''an having the backing of a peak Core Formation elder, Xing Peng had no hope of escaping.


    "Xing Peng, you should be well aware of my character," Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile, his hands sped behind his back.


    "As long as you continue to provide useful information in the future, I will not treat you poorly. I might even grant you an opportunity to reform your Core."


    "Core reformation?"


    Xing Peng¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Could it be that Lan Chang''an had found a way to reform the core in that ancient ruin?


    "Mmm. If you prove obedient and establish enough merit, and if you manage to acquire a Core Reformation method from the Unseen Gate, I may be able to enhance your chances of sess."


    Lan Chang''an understood well how to bnce rewards and threats, using promises to control others.


    "I will keep Master Lan¡¯s teachings in mind," Xing Peng said, feigning exaggerated joy. Whether or not Lan Chang''an was serious, at least it gave him a glimmer of hope for survival.


    ...


    That night, Xing Peng quietly left the Xia Family¡¯s territory in Qingsha Bay.


    He flew a thousand li to a remote inn, where he met with his Foundation Establishment subordinates.


    Xing Peng didn¡¯t mention anything about his previous encounter, only assigning various tasks to his underlings.


    As an Incense Master and an external member of the Unseen Gate operating in the field, it wasmon practice to maintain secrecy, even with his own subordinates.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat kept a watchful eye on Xing Peng for two months without noticing anything unusual.


    During that time, Xing Peng even came to Lan Chang''an in secret to report on intelligence rted to the Unseen Gate''s Shadow Hall operations in the surrounding area.


    "The me Departing Pce¡­ and Young Master Wang?"


    One of the most significant pieces of intelligence concerned the me Departing Pce.


    Only now did Lan Chang''an learn that a group of core cultivators from the me Departing Pce, wounded and on the run, had fled to the Jing Kingdom cultivation world.


    "Liang Shaotian, leading a group of demonic cultivators, ambushed the me Departing Pce''s forces in coordination with higher-ups from the Jiuchen Merchant Association?"


    "Abined assault of several Core Formation cultivators forced Master Lihuo to retreat with injuries?"


    Lan Chang''an was astonished at Liang Shaotian''s rapid progression.


    His cultivation speed rivaled that of earth spiritual roots, and hisbat strength was exceptional, allowing him to fight beyond his level.


    With a Core Formation cultivation, it was unbelievable that he could catch the shots of a Nascent Soul True Monarch and still manage to save his life.


    From this, Lan Chang''an inferred that the injuries of the Master Lihuo were likely far more severe than publicly known. Otherwise, such humiliation would never have been tolerated.


    After that fierce battle, the Master Lihuo vanished.


    Elder Wang led a group of surviving disciples, hiding in remote regions of Jing Kingdom.


    As for Young Master Wang, he seemed to have recently separated from the main group and was rumored to be procuring supplies in a nearby market city.


    "So, you¡¯re saying Young Master Wang went to Cloudsmoke Immortal City?"


    On this day, Xing Peng brought Lan Chang''an thetest update.


    "Indeed. My area of responsibility has shifted to the regions surrounding Cloudsmoke Immortal City. One of my spies detected his presence there."


    "And he¡¯s traveling alone? No other me Departing Pce cultivators are apanying him?"


    Lan Chang''an surmised that Young Master Wang was likely heading there to fulfill their agreement and receive his healing treatment.


    Counting previous sessions, Lan Chang''an had already treated Young Master Wang four times; with two more sessions, his recovery would beplete.


    "Yes, he¡¯s alone," Xing Peng confirmed. "After all, the Unseen Gate has managed to infiltrate the core ranks of the me Departing Pce disciples."


    Lan Chang''an felt a chill. The Unseen Gate¡¯s influence was indeed terrifying if they could nt spies among the remaining me Departing Pce¡¯s core disciples.


    "My dealings with Young Master Wang for his healing¡ªwill it interfere with your operations?"


    "It won¡¯t," Xing Peng replied confidently. "I have full authority over this area. Besides, both of you are on our watch list, so regardless of your actions, Unseen Gate operatives will continue to monitor you."


    At this, Xing Peng hesitated.


    In fact, Young Master Wang was a high-priority target on their list, likely carrying the future legacy of the me Departing Pce.


    If Lan Chang''an could subtly extract more information, Xing Peng himself would benefit greatly as an Incense Master.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an arrived at Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    With precise intelligence from the Unseen Gate, he decided to fulfill his agreement with Young Master Wang.


    Apart from obtaining the other half of the Tong Ghost Bamboo, this was also an opportunity to forge a favorable connection with Young Master Wang.


    Xing Peng encouraged him to meet with Young Master Wang because the Unseen Gate hoped to unearth valuable treasures from the me Departing Pce by tracking him.


    With the power boost from his Second Life¡¯s soul descent, Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength was nowparable to an early Core Formation cultivator.


    This trip also provided an opportunity to purchase a mid-grade third-rank talisman brush, preparing him for crafting higher-level treasure talismans in the future.


    Even without the agreement, he would have headed to Cloudsmoke Immortal City to seek assistance from Hanyu Immortal.


    At the Xunxian Residence, Lan Chang''an finally met with Wang Feng in the fifth year of their agreement.


    Young Master Wang¡¯s cultivation had recovered to mid-Foundation Establishment, with slight improvementspared to before.


    Lan Chang''an nodded inwardly, thinking, "As expected of a sect¡¯s favored disciple¡ªa true Golden Dan seed!"


    The true heirs of the me Departing Pce were either dead or severely injured, leaving Young Master Wang as the best candidate with both aptitude and background.


    Despite being at the sixth level of Foundation Establishment now, it wouldn¡¯t take him more than three years to advance to thete stage.


    With the full support of the me Departing Pce, his earth spiritual root talent would allow him to attempt the formation of an Immortal Golden Dan within twenty years.


    "Sorry to trouble you, Fellow Daoist Lan," Wang Feng said, his tone moreposed and steady than before. Unlike their previous encounters, he seemed less anxious.


    Perhaps the restoration of his cultivation, coupled with the confirmation from the me Departing Pce that he was a Golden Dan seed had given him newfound confidence.


    Lan Chang''an ced his palm on Wang Feng¡¯s back, channeling his Evergreen mana to nourish and heal him.


    Just then, a faint tremor coursed through his mind.


    The Nine Seal Stele, which hadin dormant in his consciousness, suddenly gave a subtle vibration.

 Chapter 251: Illuminating the Fourth Life

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and he felt a subtle sense of surprise.


    In the past three lives, aside from the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, this was only the second time that the Nine Seal Stele had shown any reaction.


    The Hundred Abodes Soul Gu was the only known source of nourishment capable of illuminating the fourth life on the Nine Seal Stele.


    Apart from this, no other substitute had been discovered.


    Lan Chang''an had once spected that the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu was a rare soul-path insect, requiring a physical host to inhabit, imbued with a mysterious soul-path power.


    If that were the case, then could it be that the nourishment needed to activate regions of the Nine Seal Stele was rted to soul-path energies? Especially something like a soul?


    After all, the shadow of a past-life soul summoned by the Nine Seal Stele was also a unique form of soul power.


    However, in his past life, Lan Chang''an had captured yin spirits and vengeful ghosts, and even interacted with the souls of cultivators, yet none of these had elicited any reaction from the Nine Seal Stele.As for other soul-path items, the highest he had handled in his past life was a third-rank object, but still, nothing unusual happened.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Fellow Daoist Lan? Is there something wrong with my body?¡± Wang Feng keenly noticed the faint ripple of emotion that had briefly shed across Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind.


    ¡°No, there¡¯s nothing wrong. Young Master Wang¡¯s hidden injuries have been healing at a rate that exceeded my expectations. It seems you must have consumed quite a few rare medicinal pills.¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a friendly smile, though he grew cautious internally.


    He couldn¡¯t shake the suspicion that Young Master Wang might be hosting the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu.


    By all logic, the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu should be wary of him after suffering a setback years ago and mysteriously vanishing. It shouldn¡¯t dare approach him again.


    Furthermore, Young Master Wang was a core disciple of the me Departing Pce, a Golden Dan Seed. He was watched over by the me Departing Pce¡¯s True Dan elders and even the Nascent Soul True Monarch, which made the risk of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu parasitizing him extremely high.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t mind if Young Master Wang were indeed hosting the soul gu and even attempted to transfer it to him.


    That way, he could use it as nourishment for the Nine Seal Stele.


    ¡°I joined up with the evacuation team from the me Departing Pce and received blessings from my elders, so naturally, I am notcking in rare elixirs,¡± Wang Feng said with a faint smile, his back to Lan Chang''an.


    Two hourster.


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his hand from Wang Feng¡¯s back, having finished the treatment.


    During the healing process, a thought had crossed Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind: should he strike from behind and capture Wang Feng in one swift move to search for the nourishment he needed for the Nine Seal Stele?


    In the end, he dismissed the idea.


    First, Wang Feng had no personal grudge against him; theirs was a simple transactional rtionship.


    Moreover, Wang Feng¡¯s payment was generous, and he¡¯d even promised Lan Chang''an a favor, making it well worth his while.


    Second, Wang Feng wouldn¡¯t have dared to travel alone if he didn¡¯t have some hidden protection.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, your medical techniques and nourishing methods are no less skilled than a third-rank pharmacist''s. The me Departing Pce has many injured disciples, and we n to recuperate in Jing Kingdom for a few years. Would you be willing toe and assist with their recovery?¡± Wang Feng turned around and proposed.


    Lan Chang''an was about to decline when Wang Feng produced a rare seven-petaledvender flower.


    ¡°The Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression shifted slightly; this was the rarest main ingredient for the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Owning this flower was equivalent to owning the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    He had already gathered all the other ingredients needed for the pill; only the Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower was missing.


    A couple of years back, when Wang Feng had requested faster healing progress, Lan Chang''an had tested the waters by suggesting either a Crystal Condensation Pill or a Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower aspensation.


    He hadn¡¯t expected Wang Feng to bring it out now as a means of hiring him.


    ¡°If you¡¯re willing to help for two years, this ¡®Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower¡¯ will be your reward from the me Departing Pce,¡± Wang Feng said with a smile.


    ¡°My apologies, but I cannot ept,¡± Lan Chang''an replied, swallowing as if he¡¯d struggled to refuse.


    He already had aplete opportunity for Core Formation and didn¡¯t want to take unnecessary risks.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about your safety, Fellow Daoist Lan. The Golden Sun Sect has ceased its pursuit of the me Departing Pce, and the remaining threats are hardly worth concern,¡± Wang Feng persuaded.


    Lan Chang''an still declined.


    Wang Feng sighed but didn¡¯t press the issue.


    Lan Chang''an stood, cupped his hands in farewell, and took his leave.


    ¡°This man¡¯s spiritual power is somewhat unusual. Although he¡¯s not particrly skilled inbat, there¡¯s an elusive quality about him¡­¡± Wang Feng muttered to himself as he sat there, his eyes flickering with thought.


    ¡­


    After leaving the Xunxian Residence, Lan Chang''an found a modest inn within the Cloudsmoke Immortal City to stay.


    As night fell, a mysterious figure in a gray-white hooded robe appeared in the shadows of his room.


    ¡°How did it go?¡± Lan Chang''an asked without turning his head.


    ¡°Master Lan, we lost track of Wang Feng after he left the city,¡± Xing Peng reported with a troubled expression.


    After the meeting between Lan Chang''an and Wang Feng, Xing Peng had focused his surveincework on Wang Feng, trying to gather intelligence.


    ¡°Has this happened before?¡± Lan Chang''an inquired.


    ¡°It¡¯s happened twice before. We lost him halfway, and he only reappeared around the outskirts of Cloudsmoke Immortal City,¡± Xing Peng replied.


    ¡°Why not just apprehend him directly?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°For one, our Unseen Gate prioritizes infiltration and information gathering before a conflict. Direct action is rare, as it risks exposure,¡± Xing Peng exined. ¡°Moreover, Wang Feng has a high danger rating from our superiors. If he dares to travel alone, he likely has some means of protection.¡±


    Lan Chang''an nodded in agreement with the Unseen Gate¡¯s analysis.


    He, too, suspected that Wang Feng had some sort of hidden protection.


    During the recent treatment session, his Evergreen spiritual power had entered Wang Feng¡¯s body, yet he¡¯d detected no abnormalities¡ªthis method was more direct than any spiritual sense probe.


    From this, Lan Chang''an deduced that Wang Feng¡¯s protection mighte from some external source.


    Upon leaving the Xunxian Residence, he had sensed a faint feeling of being watched.


    With the arrival of his ¡°second life,¡± although it was in a semi-dormant state to reduce its soul energy consumption, his senses were sharper than ever.


    If that faint sense of surveince was real, it was likely ate-stage Core Formation Great Cultivator at the very least.


    This made Lan Chang''an cautious.


    ¡°How many Core Formation elders from the me Departing Pce escaped?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Besides Elder Wang, two others broke through the siege, though one¡¯s life or death is uncertain. At the time, their escape direction wasn¡¯t towards Jing Kingdom, but after a year, it¡¯s anyone¡¯s guess.¡±


    ¡°Oh, and have there been any leads on the me Departing Pce¡¯s Supreme Elder?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind stirred.


    ¡°Anything involving a Nascent Soul True Monarch is beyond my ess to ssified information,¡± Xing Peng replied, shaking his head. ¡°But we can confirm that the Master Lihuo was severely injured and is likely hiding somewhere to heal.¡±


    Lan Chang''an nodded in agreement.


    If he were the Master Lihuo, he¡¯d definitely find a ce to lie low, using the time to recover from his weakest state.


    This would be the most cautious and stable approach.


    Otherwise, several Core Formation experts joining forces could threaten his life.


    So long as the Master Lihuo remained hidden, no one would dare make a move against Elder Wang or the others.


    ¡­


    Late at night, in his guest room.


    Lan Chang''an closed his eyes to concentrate, summoning the soul shadow of his second life to enhance his perception.


    In this state, the consumption rate of his soul shadow increased tenfold, but the heightened awareness was worth it.


    If there was ate-stage Core Formation cultivator spying on him, they would struggle to escape his detection.


    Even an early Nascent Soul cultivator probing him with spiritual sense would likely be sensed, because this was a state of full alert and vignce.


    By dawn, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t detected any unusual surveince.


    ¡°Perhaps it was a mere coincidence. Young Master Wang¡¯s hidden protector might have simply brushed over me with their spiritual sense as a routine check.¡±


    To be thorough, Lan Chang''an maintained this vignt state for another two days, but he sensed nothing suspicious.


    His doubts gradually lessened.


    A few dayster, near dusk.


    An elderly man in a straw raincoat arrived at the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s residence and was personally received by Hanyu Immortal.


    To avoid drawing suspicion, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t always meet with Hanyu Immortal whenever he met with Wang Feng over the years.


    ¡­


    In a fragrant and elegantly furnished chamber within the guild¡¯spound.


    ¡°Big Brother Xiang is interested in purchasing a mid-grade third-rank talisman brush? Are you perhaps acquainted with a senior third-rank talisman master?¡± Hanyu Immortal asked, her face still slightly flushed, as she donned a fine, white pce gown to cover her fair and delicate back.


    Lan Chang''an nodded. ¡°Indeed, I know a third-rank talisman master who is owed a favor by me, and this is my way of repaying it.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t concerned that Hanyu Immortal would link this identity to Lan Chang''an.


    After all, he was only at thete Foundation Establishment stage and couldn¡¯t possibly wield a mid-grade third-rank talisman brush.


    A third-rank talisman brush was a simplified magic treasure that required an extremely high level of mana and spiritual sense to use.


    A third-rank mid-grade, even a third-rank talisman master with a Fake Dan cultivation would struggle to handle it.


    ¡°If it¡¯s a superior-grade third-rank talisman brush, the Snow Fox Merchant Association won¡¯t be able to help. Even finding a regr mid-grade one would take some luck¡­¡±


    Hanyu Immortal hesitated, her expression showing some difficulty.


    Although the Jing Kingdom had a flourishing tradework and skilled artisans, genuine third-rank talisman masters were as rare as phoenix feathers.


    Some of them only had Fake Dan cultivation and could barely handle low third-rank talisman work.


    With such high rank and low market demand, this item was naturally a niche product.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind waiting a few months, Big Brother Xiang, the Snow Fox Merchant Association can pull some strings through ourwork to help you acquire one,¡± Hanyu Immortal said, contemting.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡±


    His initial suspicions about the mysterious surveince hadn¡¯t fully dissipated, Lan Chang''an felt it was safer to stay a bit longer in the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s domain.


    Even a True Dan cultivator wouldn¡¯t dare to act recklessly within the Guild¡¯s territory in the heart of a major trade city.


    Moreover, the Lihuo Pce, having recently suffered defeat, was in a position where they needed to keep a low profile and lie low.


    Three months passed in the blink of an eye.


    During this time, Lan Chang''an did not indulge in the discussion of the Dao but instead used other identities to mingle at the bottom of the immortal city.


    One day, Hanyu Immortal left a message for him at a designated location.


    Lan Chang''an returned once again to the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯spound.


    ¡°This mid-grade third-rank talisman brush is heavily worn and will probably onlyst for a few dozen more uses,¡± Hanyu Immortal said as she opened a box to reveal an old talisman brush adorned with silver patterns.


    With use, a talisman brush inevitably suffers wear and tear. Fully restoring it would be extremely costly, nearly as expensive as creating a new one from scratch.


    The third-rank talisman brush Lan Chang''an currently used was also second-hand, a low-grade one at that. It was just barely adequate for drawing mid-grade talismans, but anything higher would be a drag.


    ¡°This will work! I¡¯ll just add a few extra spirit stones aspensation to my talisman master friend.¡±


    Since the materials he had prepared for talisman crafting were limited, a few dozen uses would be sufficient.


    Due to its nearly worn-out condition, Lan Chang''an was able to acquire the talisman brush for a little over ten thousand spirit stones.


    ...


    Two dayster, Lan Chang''an left Cloudsmoke Immortal City. His journey went smoothly.


    As he flew near the Changhong River, he was only a hundred li away from the tributary of Qingsha Bay.


    "Hmm?"


    Lan Chang''an looked at the dense forest along the riverbank and felt his heart jolt.


    This forest was where the Earth Burrowing Rat had devoured Yu Qin and the vice president of the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    It wasn¡¯t because he sensed an ambush. Rather, it was because he had just passed by this exact forest a few breaths ago.


    It felt as if he were caught in a ¡°ghost wall¡± illusion, going in circles.


    ¡°An illusion formation!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes sharpened as he activated the sensory amplification granted by his Second Life.


    He faintly perceived a distorted, circr, pale purple light membrane permeating the void. It extended over an area of twenty li, creating a strange space that isted him from the outside world.


    To deceive the senses of a cultivator of True Dan Great Cultivator, this had to be at least a superior-grade third-rank illusion formation, possibly even fourth-rank.


    ¡°Turtle Talisman Master, you really aren''t simple. You actually detected the illusion formation¡¯s location.¡±


    From within the forest, a figure emerged¡ªa handsome man in purple robes with sharp features. He floated leisurely into the air.


    ¡°Wang Feng, what is the meaning of this?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression changed as he scanned his surroundings, but saw only Wang Feng.


    At that moment, he noticed something strange about Wang Feng.


    Not only had his demeanor changed, but his deep, piercing gaze seemed to weigh down on Lan Chang''an like a mountain, making his soul tremble inexplicably.


    There was no one below the Nascent Soul level who could exert such pressure on him in his current state.


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s to take you with me! It¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve seen a Foundation Establishment cultivator with a five-hundred-year lifespan.¡±


    Wang Feng¡¯s eyes gleamed with an eerie purple me.


    ¡°Supreme Elder Lihuo!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart shook. Why would the Supreme Elder of the me Departing Pce, instead of recuperating from his injuries, possess or take over Wang Feng¡¯s body?


    Could it be that Master Lihuo¡¯s injuries were more severe than the outside world had guessed, to the point that he had to abandon his physical body and release his Nascent Soul?


    Not only that, but he had waited here in ambush for Lan Chang''an rather than making a move near the city.


    Suddenly, Wang Feng¡¯s figure blurred in Lan Chang''an¡¯s vision and vanished.


    Boom!


    The next instant, Lan Chang''an¡¯s consciousness was assaulted by a burning sensation, and his mind went dark.


    The soul shadow of his Second Life, the white-bearded old man, abruptly dimmed by a quarter.


    Within the illusion formation, Lan Chang''an let out a muffled groan and fell unconscious, plunging headfirst toward the roaring river below.


    Swish!


    A purple silhouette took the form of ¡°Wang Feng¡± and appeared ten zhang behind Lan Chang''an like a phantom.


    The purple mes in ¡°Wang Feng¡¯s¡± eyes flickered and died down.


    He pointed a finger, and a whip-like magical treasure crackling with arcs of electricity shot out from his sleeve. It twisted like a living thunder serpent, wrapping around the unconscious Lan Chang''an.


    At this moment, ¡°Wang Feng¡¯s¡± cultivation surged to thete Foundation Establishment stage. Restricted by his cultivation level, he could only partially unleash the Nascent Soul-level power of his magical treasure.


    Even so, if this whip bound someone, even an early True Dan cultivator would be rendered helpless.


    Snap!


    The lightning serpent whip shattered the phantom image of Lan Chang''an in white robes.


    In that instant, Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes snapped open, his body swelling and growing taller as he emanated a powerful aura of blood and vitality.


    sh!


    With the strength of a ferocious beast, Lan Chang''an twisted in mid-air, gripping a ck-gold curved saber as he shed directly at Wang Feng¡¯s face.


    ¡°A Fake Dan-level body cultivator. I anticipated this.¡±


    A cold snort echoed in Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind.


    The figure of ¡°Wang Feng¡± shifted, seeming to teleport to Lan Chang''an¡¯s left.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s full-powered sh, bolstered by his physical cultivation, missed its mark, leaving him briefly off-bnce.


    Whoosh!


    The lightning serpent whip struck again, this time coiling toward Lan Chang''an¡¯s leg with no room for escape.


    ¡°As expected of an old Nascent Soul monster!¡±


    Lan Chang''an''s chest lit up with the spiritual glow of a treasure talisman, creating five spinning crystal-blue shields that protected his tall figure.


    Crack!


    The lightning serpent whip was deflected by one of the rotating crystal shields, which shattered upon impact.


    ¡°A mid-grade third-rank talisman?¡±


    ¡°Wang Feng¡¯s¡± eyebrows knitted in surprise.


    A talisman of such high rank, in the hands of a merete Foundation Establishment cultivator? Even among the neighboring nations, there were hardly any genuine fourth-rank talisman masters, and mid-grade third-rank talismans were exceedingly rare.


    The higher the rank of a talisman, the rarer and more demanding the materials needed to craft it. How difficult would it be to hunt arge demon of the middle tote third rank, or even a transformed Demon King?


    In this critical moment, Lan Chang''an activated one of his strongest defensive talismans, narrowly escaping capture.


    Four more crystal-blue shields rotated around Lan Chang''an, each capable of withstanding a blow from an early-stage True Dan cultivator.


    ¡°Activate!¡±


    With a flick of his white robes, Lan Chang''an unleashed two more talismans in rapid session.


    Thunderbolt Talisman!


    A vast storm of electric light and thunderclouds materialized between him and ¡°Wang Feng,¡± engulfing thetter in an instant.


    This was yet another mid-grade third-rank treasure talisman, crafted months ago, and was in his peak second life''s state.


    Thunderous booms, apanied by ¡°Wang Feng¡¯s¡± furious roar, echoed from within the storm.


    ¡°Fortunately, he¡¯s only possessing a Foundation Establishment body, and his magical power is insufficient to unleash the true power of his magical treasure and techniques.¡±


    Lan Chang''an activated another talisman, a Flight Talisman.


    Instantly, a whirlwind of wind formed around him, propelling him forward in a dazzling green streak of light as he flew toward the edge of the illusion formation.


    ¡°Turle Talisman Master! This fourth-rank remnant formation is not something you can break through!¡±


    A chilling voice rang out as ¡°Wang Feng¡± emerged from the storm, encased in a protective cloud of ice from a defensive talisman. He charged out of the turbulent thundercloud.


    He activated a third-rank flight talisman and chased after Lan Chang''an with great speed.


    Lan Chang''an headed toward the riverbank forest, approaching the boundary of the illusion formation.


    Thanks to the amplification from his second life possession, Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense was incredibly powerful, allowing him to locate the edges of the illusion formation and even detect its weaker points.


    ¡°Break!¡±


    Lan Chang''an took out a stack of talismans¡ªsix or seven in total¡ªall of which were third-rank Restriction-Breaking treasure talismans.


    The first one alone caused the edge of the illusion formation to flicker and tremble, with the distorted images in the void wavering.


    After all, this was merely a fourth-rank remnant formation without a controller, temporarily powered by spirit stones. Its defensive power was considerably weaker.


    ¡°So many third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talismans?¡±


    ¡°Wang Feng¡¯s¡± pupils shrank, his expression frozen for a moment.


    Third-rank Restriction-Breaking Talismans were precious strategic resources on the battlefield for cultivators.


    This man, Lan Chang''an, surely possessed an extraordinary fortune.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Three consecutive sts from the Restriction-Breaking Talismans caused cracks to form on the boundary of the illusion formation.


    ¡°Wang Feng¡¯s¡± expression darkened.


    A Nascent Soul, wearing a purple Daoist robe, appeared faintly on the surface of his body, radiating a dreadful aura.


    Hum¡­


    The Nascent Soul¡¯s hands formed a spell seal, releasing an unsettling energy. A few purple me-like characters, resembling tadpoles, encircled ¡°Wang Feng.¡±


    With a surge of purple mes beneath his feet, ¡°Wang Feng¡¯s¡± speed instantly doubled!


    In a few breaths, he was within dozens of zhang of Lan Chang''an.


    Boom!


    A massive stone wall shot up from the ground within the forest, directly blocking his path.


    ¡°Damn it¡ª!¡±


    ¡°Wang Feng¡± was moving too fast, and his current bodycked the control needed to avoid the stone wall conjured by a True Dan-level demonic beast.


    Crash!


    The stone wall shattered, and a cascade of rocks buried ¡°Wang Feng¡¯s¡± body, apanied by faint screams.


    ¡°Well done!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s fifth Restriction-Breaking Talisman created a crack about a foot wide in the boundary of the illusion formation.


    A sh of earthy yellow light darted into Lan Chang''an¡¯s spirit pet bag.


    Through the crack in the formation¡ª


    The illusion dissipated, and Lan Chang''an appeared above a clear, fresh stretch of river.


    ¡°At that speed, even with Wang Feng¡¯s body, he¡¯d be hard-pressed to avoid injuries.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart finally settled.


    Fortunately, he had stockpiled a wealth of treasure talismans over the years, all of them third-rank or higher, amounting to over sixty in total. With an abundance of trump cards, he could mitigate unforeseen dangers.


    He hadn¡¯t expected that Master Lihuo¡¯s injuries would be so severe that he would abandon his own body.


    In truth, the exact state of Master Lihuo¡¯s injuries was only known to himself and Chu Tianfeng; no other faction had urate information.


    ¡­


    To be able to escape from the hands of a Nascent Soul old monster is enough to be proud of oneself, even though it''s a crippled Nascent Soul."


    Lan Chang''an took a deep breath.


    Whoosh!


    Stepping onto a third-rank flight light, Lan Chang''an headed toward the heart of Jing Kingdom, rather than the Xia Family in Qingsha Bay.


    He reasoned that ¡°Wang Feng¡± would find it difficult to pursue him.


    In terms of cultivation and physical strength, Wang Feng was no match for him.


    As for using flight talismans, Lan Chang''an was not concerned.


    Without enough body cultivation, a normal Foundation Establishment body couldn¡¯t endure high-speed travel for long without sustaining damage.


    However, barely ten li into his flight, a cold, resonant voice echoed in his mind:


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, I told you¡ªyou cannot escape!¡±


    A foot-long purple-robed Nascent Soul appeared, flickering like an afterimage, closing the distance within a few breaths.


    ¡°A Nascent Soul out of body!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s flight came to an abrupt halt, and he gave a bitter smile.


    A Nascent Soul in spirit form could fly several times faster than a typical Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Alone, a Nascent Soul was fragile andckedbat strength, but it still possessed some soul-based techniques.


    ¡°A Foundation Establishment body with a five-hundred-year lifespan¡­ this Taoist would like to see it for himself.¡±


    In a sh, the purple-robed Nascent Soul drilled into Lan Chang''an¡¯s body.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t resist.


    He sighed inwardly; unless absolutely necessary, he hadn¡¯t wanted to risk this.


    Ever since learning that Wang Feng was possessed by a Nascent Soul, he had suspected the reaction of the Nine Seal Stele earlier.


    Boom!


    The second life''s soul shadow in Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind dimmed by half, torn open violently.


    The purple-robed Nascent Soul forced its way into his sea of consciousness, trying to seize control.


    Buzz!


    From the depths of his consciousness, an ancient, pitch-ck stone tablet emitted a dim white glow, enveloping the invading Nascent Soul.


    ¡°No¡ª!¡±


    The Master Lihuo¡¯s Nascent Soul was immobilized, bound by some kind ofw-bound power.


    A soul-shaking scream echoed and then fell silent.


    In the fourth seal of the Nine Seal Stele, the purple-robed Nascent Soul was ground into fine particles.


    Then, a radiant, crystal-clear white light emerged, spreading quickly through the gray, deathly silent region of the stele.


    Not only that¡ª


    Within the fourth seal frame, a faint outline of the purple-robed Daoist began to take shape.

 Chapter 252: Three Types of Reincarnation

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    In mid-air, watching as Master Lihuo''s Nascent Soul was devoured by the Nine Seal Stele, Lan Chang''an let out a deep sigh of relief.


    "I gambled right!"


    Realizing that Wang Feng was possessed by a Nascent Soul, his earlier hypothesis had been spot on.


    The Nascent Soul, as an evolved form of the soul, was indeed simr to the Soul Gu and could provide nourishment for the Nine Seal Stele.


    Reflecting on his recent experiences, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but break out in a cold sweat.


    Back at the Xunxian Residence, he had been giving close-contact treatment ¡ª even massaging the back ¡ª of an old Nascent Soul monster for a full two hours!


    That level of close proximity was akin to taking his pulse.


    If a Nascent Soul cultivator couldn¡¯t detect any anomalies from him, they¡¯d have to be blind.His Fake Dan level body refinement, his Evergreen Technique, his over-500-year lifespan ¡ª all of it must have been noticed by the Master Lihuo.


    The secrets of his body had almost beenid bare.


    Master Lihuo hadn¡¯t attacked within the city, likely to avoid alerting the Immortals residing there. Instead, he¡¯d chosen to ambush Lan Chang''an along the path back to Qingsha Bay, setting up a fourth-rank remnant formation to iste them from the outside world.


    For an ordinary Core Formation cultivator, it would have been almost impossible to survive.


    "Thankfully, I had the support of my second life. Otherwise, that initial soul technique would¡¯ve left even an early-stage Core Formation cultivator unconscious."


    Wang Feng had the possession of a Nascent Soul.


    Likewise, Lan Chang''an had the possession of a peak Core Formation soul shadow from his previous life.


    This allowed him to resist the weakened Nascent Soul rather than being killed outright.


    "And it¡¯s a good thing I had so many treasure talismans. With enough Restriction-Breaking Talismans, I managed to force the Master Lihuo to leave his body and pursue me with his Nascent Soul."


    In this battle alone, Lan Chang''an had used seven or eight third-rank treasure talismans, half of which were mid-grade.


    Not even the Golden Dan Seeds of Nascent Soul sects would have one-tenth of the life-preserving cards he had.


    "And then there¡¯s Wang Feng!"


    Without wasting time to examine the changes in the Nine Seal Stele, Lan Chang''an flew toward the remnants of the fourth-rank formation.


    The formation was primarily an illusion array meant to trap enemies, but it did not restrict entry.


    Additionally, it served to iste the area from the outside world.


    Thus, even though he had unleashed Core Formation-level spells against "Wang Feng," there had been no disturbance detected from outside.


    As for the attacks from the Nascent Soul, they had been executed with such speed that the whole exchange onlysted a few breaths.


    Within the formation, Lan Chang''an spread his spiritual sense, immediately searching for Wang Feng.


    Wang Feng¡¯s body was trapped under a small mountain of stone rubble.


    There were signs of life; he was in aatose state.


    Using his spiritual sense to probe further, Lan Chang''an found that Wang Feng¡¯s consciousness seemed temporarily sealed by some form of power.


    "He¡¯s still alive. It seems Wang Feng wasn¡¯t possessed entirely; the Nascent Soul only performed a temporary possession."


    Lan Chang''an had heard of simr techniques in his previous life.


    If it had been true possession, Wang Feng¡¯s consciousness would have beenpletely erased, devoured by the Nascent Soul.


    "The sealed consciousness must be Master Lihuo''s doing."


    The pressure of a Nascent Soul was terrifying, and Wang Feng''s Foundation Establishment-level body was too fragile to withstand it.


    Moreover, a foreign soul trying to control a body would naturally experience resistance from the host.


    In contrast, Lan Chang''an¡¯s soul shadow from his past life was perfectlypatible with him, so he didn¡¯t experience any negative effects.


    Thus, Master Lihuo had likely sealed Wang Feng¡¯s consciousness to lessen the pain and physical rejection during the possession.


    ...


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from Lan Chang''an''s pet pouch, ready to scavenge the battlefield and collect any spoils.


    While waiting, Lan Chang''an suppressed his excitement and directed his consciousness into the Nine Seal Stele, eager to examine the fourth frame.


    "The fourth life... fully illuminated!"


    The fourth frame was now filled with a crystalline white light.


    Within the frame was a faint, semi-formed shadow of a Daoist in purple robes, surrounded by flickering mes.


    It was none other than the image of the Master Lihuo.


    Although Lan Chang''an had never seen the Master Lihuo in person, as a native cultivator of Liang Kingdom with over a century of experience, he was familiar with the descriptions of this figure.


    Yet, unlike the previous two life shadows, this one felt distinctly different.


    The soul shadows from his first two lives felt fully integrated with him, like extensions of his own flesh and blood.


    The Master Lihuo''s soul shadow, however, was vague and unformed, giving Lan Chang''an a sense of detachment.


    "What is the purpose of this Master Lihuo¡¯s soul shadow in the fully illuminated fourth life?"


    As Lan Chang''an pondered, the Nine Seal Stele vibrated slightly, sending a series of vague messages.


    These messages were not concrete, more like abstract concepts.


    Though there were no words or images, Lan Chang''an could somehow understand the answers to his questions from these impressions.


    The secrets and new abilities of the Nine Seal Stele were finally being revealed to him.


    His previous life''s spection had been correct. Advancing to the Nascent Soul stage would indeed unlock the secrets and functions of the Nine Seal Stele.


    Although Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t reached Nascent Soul himself in this life, by allowing the Nine Seal Stele to devour a Nascent Soul, he¡¯d met the necessary condition to "unlock" it.


    "The Nine Seal Stele has three ways to initiate reincarnation cultivation, with each nk frame able to activate one."


    Lan Chang''an processed the information conveyed by the Nine Seal Stele, his heart racing with excitement and his face lighting up with joy.


    "The first method: Once a nk frame is fully illuminated, after this life ends, I will have the ability to choose my next reincarnation."


    What does it mean to choose?


    After death, Lan Chang''an could select the region, background, aptitude,prehension, and even fortune for his next life.


    It was essentially a way to customize his next reincarnation.


    Of course, this customization came with strict limitations and a finite "fate quota."


    He couldn¡¯t excel in every area.


    For instance, if he chose to be born into a top-tier cultivation family, he¡¯d have to lower his expectations in other areas.


    If he selected a life with great fortune, then his aptitude, background, and other aspects would have to be reduced ordingly.


    Striving for excellence in all aspects would result in mediocrity across the board.


    Was there a way to increase the "fate quota"?


    Yes, there was.


    By illuminating the fifth and sixth frames with reincarnation energy, he could increase the total "fate quota" for customization.


    However, the requirements to illuminate the fifth frame were on a whole new level.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that to fully illuminate the fifth frame, he¡¯d need more than just one or two Nascent Souls.


    This method of customizing the next reincarnation would upy the fourth frame.


    The other two methods followed the same principle.


    Customizing the next reincarnation was indeed enticing, but the prerequisite was death.


    Lan Chang''an, who was doing well in this life and progressing smoothly, wasn¡¯t about to take his own life just for that.


    Besides, the further he advanced in this life, the more powerful a foundation he could establish for his next life.


    ...


    "The second method: Convert the soul shadow of the ¡®Master Lihuo¡¯ inscribed on the Nine Seal Stele into a past life of my own, but this requires resolving a karmic tie."


    Upon learning this ability, Lan Chang''an was initially shocked and ecstatic.


    It meant that he could experience the life of the Master Lihuo as if it were his own past, simr to his first and second lives.


    This would elevate him from being a reincarnated Core Formation cultivator to the reincarnation of a Nascent Soul old monster.


    All of the Master Lihuo¡¯s lifetime experiences, memories, abilities, and insights would be his instincts. At that point, the Nascent Soul¡¯s lifetime knowledge would serve as his ultimate trump card.


    Just the lifetime memories of a Nascent Soul cultivator would be an invaluable treasure.


    Not to mention, the Master Lihuo¡¯s memories held thousands of years of me Departing Pce¡¯s heritage and potentially hidden treasures.


    The second method, with its immense and reliable rewards, greatly tempted Lan Chang''an.


    However, to transform the Master Lihuo into his own past life, he would need to fulfill one of the deceased cultivator¡¯s wishes and resolve a karmic bond.


    Only by doing so could he break down the invisible barrier, and with the Nine Seal Stele¡¯s assistance, make the Master Lihuo his past life.


    After a moment of calm, Lan Chang''an realized a terrifying implication:


    "If the Nine Seal Stele can convert a devoured Nascent Soul into my past life, then does that mean my first and second lives were not truly my own experiences?"


    The thought made his scalp tingle.


    However, he remembered his memory of encountering the Nine Seal Stele on Earth and crossing over to the cultivation world. Logically, his first two lives should indeed be his real experiences.


    The Master Lihuo hadn¡¯t originally been part of his reincarnations. Only by fulfilling his wish and resolving the karmic bond could he turn him into a past life.


    ...


    "The third method: Open up a dream-like cultivation life and turn it into a past life experience."


    "Through dreams, I could observe another self¡¯s cultivation journey, gaining knowledge and insights from it."


    "Additionally, I could expend reincarnation energy to send guidance through dreams, teaching and instructing that alternate self."


    "The other self in the dream would exist in the real world. If he dies, he would then be my past life, upying the fourth frame."


    After considering it for a moment, Lan Chang''an realized the third method had the lowest activation requirements.


    In fact, there were almost no restrictions.


    There was no need to die, nor were there other requirements. He could activate it immediately by expending the reincarnation energy of the fourth frame.


    His true self and the alternate self in the dream could live simultaneously.


    By using this method, the image of the Master Lihuo in the fourth frame would be fully converted into pure reincarnation energy.


    "The third method of reincarnation has high potential but also a lot of uncertainty," Lan Chang''an mused.


    His gains would depend on the achievements of his alternate self in the dream.


    If the dream self were exceptionally fortunate and cultivated to a level beyond Nascent Soul, it would be a huge gain.


    And if that dream self somehow ascended to immortality, wouldn¡¯t Lan Chang''an be the reincarnation of a true immortal?


    Of course, such scenarios were only theoretical. The likelihood in reality was close to zero.


    In the Heaven Honoured Continent, no records in thest hundred thousand years documented any cultivator reaching true immortality.


    The third method had a very low baseline; the dream self might die in the middle of the path or be stuck at a certain rm for the rest of their lives.


    "The dream self wouldn¡¯t have memories of my past lives, making his achievements unpredictable."


    It was more likely that the dream self would stumble at the Core Formation stage or even before reaching Foundation Establishment.


    In such cases, it would be practically useless to Lan Chang''an, wasting one of the Nine Seal Stele''s precious nk frames.


    In short, the third method was a gamble.


    If he won, he might achieve instant sess.


    If he lost, he¡¯d gain nothing.


    ...


    Aside from these three reincarnation methods, the Nine Seal Stele also offered fragmented abilities rted to reincarnation.


    However, these were abstract concepts that would require Lan Chang''an to graduallyprehend and develop on his own.


    "Master, the battlefield has been cleared." A young voice called out.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat approached Lan Chang''an, carrying a storage pouch and a storage ring.


    It had also unearthed Wang Feng from the rubble. The man was still unconscious, bound with a restriction ced by a third-rank demonic beast.


    The storage pouch belonged to Wang Feng.


    With a simple flick, Lan Chang''an broke the seal on it, finding Wang Feng¡¯s personal items inside.


    Twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones.


    Several bottles of third-rank elixirs.


    Half of a superior-grade third-rank Tong Ghost Bamboo.


    Third-rank spiritual herbs, third-rank spirit stones, crafting materials, and so forth.


    A fire-elemental magic treasure prototype.


    A talismanic treasure, along with two low-grade third-rank talismans.


    The second-rank items, including supreme-grade magical weapons, were not worth mentioning as they did not catch Lan Chang''an''s eye.


    As a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, Wang Feng¡¯s wealth surpassed that of many Fake Dan cultivators. Such was the treatment of a core disciple and a Golden Dan Seed.


    With some anticipation, Lan Chang''an picked up the storage ring.


    It had a powerful restriction that was difficult to breach.


    There was no doubt that it was Master Lihuo''s storage ring.


    The restriction ced by a Nascent Soul cultivator was beyond Lan Chang''an¡¯s ability to unlock in a short time.


    He would need a specialized unlocking method, a secret key of sorts.


    "Is there any way to ess his memories?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s consciousness connected to the Nine Seal Stele¡¯s fourth frame, touching the indistinct soul shadow of the purple-robed Daoist.


    Boom!


    Instantly, a flood of chaotic memory fragments surged forth, disying scene after scene in a jumbled mess.


    Hiss!


    Lan Chang''an grunted, steadying his mind as he resisted the torrent of memories, carefully sifting for useful information.


    Perhaps due to the Nascent Soul''s higher level and vast lifetime, the memories were enormous and chaotic, making it challenging to extract anything useful.


    The Master Lihuo had lived for hundreds of years, and the volume of memories was incalcble.


    Most of it was useless fragments.


    Only a minuscule fraction held any value.


    Unlike thest time he had absorbed the Soul Gu''s memories, which had been purer and contained less extraneous information.


    The Soul Gu had barely reached the third rank, making it suitable as nourishment for the Nine Seal Stele.


    Lan Chang''an spected that the Soul Gu was a unique case, possessing reincarnation attributes that made itpatible with the Nine Seal Stele.


    For an ordinary creature, it would need to reach the fourth rank and undergo a soul transformation to qualify as sustenance for the Nine Seal Stele.


    "This is troublesome; the efficiency is too low!"


    Lan Chang''an found the chaotic memory fragments disorderly and hard to navigate. The deeper the information, the harder it was to retrieve. It was like sitting in a library with a mountain of books but no catalog or search function.


    Moreover, over ny-nine percent of the contents were irrelevant. Still, Lan Chang''an managed to extract a few useful memory fragments, though passively rather than by choice.


    For example, he saw a brief glimpse of Master Lihuo''s Nascent Soul formation process. It was fleeting, like a sh in the pan.


    "The Nascent Soul formation process! But it was too short, just a single moment," Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart raced, sighing with regret.


    There was also a recent memory fragment. Master Lihuo was conversing with a majestic man who appeared somewhat dominant.


    "Chu Tianfeng?"


    Lan Chang''an guessed the man''s identity.


    Chu Tianfeng had encountered the injured Master Lihuo yet hadn¡¯t killed him.


    This likely had to do with the external threat posed by the invading demonic forces. Chu Tianfeng wanted to prevent the surrounding countries from weakening themselves with internal strife.


    "Unless I convert the ¡®Master Lihuo¡¯ into a past life, I¡¯ll have to sift through these chaotic memory fragments like panning for gold in a sewage pit."


    With a wry smile, Lan Chang''an withdrew his consciousness from the Nine Seal Stele.


    Even if he could neatly organize all of Master Lihuo''s useful memories, much of the knowledge might still be difficult to apply.


    It was like having ess to Earth¡¯s inte, with its vast open knowledge and libraries avable to everyone. Yet how many people could be exceptional simply through self-study?


    If Master Lihuo were converted into a past life, Lan Chang''an would immediately possess his insights, skills, and abilities without needing to start from scratch.


    The most enticing part was Master Lihuo¡¯s insights into Nascent Soul formation.


    And then there were the hidden resources and treasures the me Departing Pce had stashed away before their retreat.


    The cultivation war had gone on for years; Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t believe the me Departing Pce had left no escape n, no secret stashes.


    ...


    Storing Master Lihuo¡¯s storage ring for future attempts to unlock it, Lan Chang''an felt its near-weightless presence.


    It was likely an exceptionally rare spatial item in the cultivation world.


    True spatial tools required special spatial materials, including formation arrays and unique teleportation symbols.


    He then looked down at the unconscious Wang Feng.


    "If I wish to fulfill Master Lihuo''s dying wish, I can¡¯t kill this man. Otherwise, I¡¯ll fail to resolve the karmic bond and won¡¯t be able to turn him into a past life."


    Through his connection with Master Lihuo¡¯s soul shadow, Lan Chang''an had faintly sensed his important desire before death.


    That desire was to revive the me Departing Pce!


    To train a Golden Dan cultivator and establish a new sect base as a foothold.


    If Wang Feng died, the me Departing Pce would lose its Golden Dan Seed.


    "Let¡¯s take a look at his memories."


    Lan Chang''an pressed a finger to Wang Feng¡¯s forehead.


    With his soul strengthened by his previous life¡¯s peak Core Formation level, he entered Wang Feng¡¯s sea of consciousness, beginning a soul search.


    In his current state, erasing Wang Feng¡¯s recent memories was much easier than it had been in ancient ruins.


    "Hm? His consciousness has been sealed for the past half year, with no memories from his time in Cloudsmoke Immortal City."


    This saved Lan Chang''an the trouble of acting.


    The recent surface memories were easier to ess, so Lan Chang''an skimmed through them.


    Among them was a conversation between Wang Feng and Master Lihuo¡¯s Nascent Soul.


    "So that¡¯s how it is."


    Lan Chang''an now understood Master Lihuo¡¯s n.


    Master Lihuo was gravely injured, his body beyond saving.


    He intended to possess a suitable new body.


    Master Lihuo, with limited lifespan, had retained some decency and hadn¡¯t targeted the retreating disciples of the me Departing Pce.


    Most of the retreating cultivators were old, weak, or wounded.


    A weakened Nascent Soul like Master Lihuo¡¯s risked failure if it targeted a high-level Core Formation cultivator.


    Moreover, at the Nascent Soul stage, life expectancy depended more on the Nascent Soul¡¯s state.


    If his Nascent Soul was nearly exhausted with only sixty or seventy years left, even possessing a Core Formation cultivator with two hundred years of lifespan wouldn¡¯t extend it by much.


    Possessing his own disciples would be a low-cost option with poor returns, as the host body would fail once the Nascent Soul¡¯s lifespan ran out, chilling the hearts of his sect members.


    Master Lihuo had reached an agreement with his direct disciple, Elder Wang, to temporarily possess Wang Feng and search for a suitable host body elsewhere.


    Wang Feng, needing time to stabilize his foundation, had agreed if he could recruit Lan Chang''an as a pharmacist, all the better.


    Most of the Nascent Soul¡¯s essence was concentrated in the soul. As long as the host body waspatible (in terms of aptitude, attribute alignment, and physical affinity) and had ample resources, even a Foundation Establishment-level body could restore Nascent Soul-level mana within twenty years, without needing to re-form the Nascent Soul.


    However, in the cultivation world, there was a principle regarding possession: A possessed cultivator would find it nearly impossible to surpass the level of the original host.


    When attempting ascension, they¡¯d also face an even more terrifying heart demon tribtion.


    Master Lihuo had been thrilled to find that Lan Chang''an, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, possessed twice the lifespan of others at the same level.


    If his Nascent Soul¡¯s lifespan could also double, wouldn¡¯t that grant him over a thousand more years?


    This was why Master Lihuo had immediately aimed to capture Lan Chang''an, using a binding rope magical treasure rather than lethal attacks.


    "Master Lihuo entrusted the resources meant for Golden Dan Seeds, along with some personal treasures, to his disciple Wang Fulin. No wonder Elder Wang and his grandson were willing to cooperate."


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but specte with the darkest of intentions: If Master Lihuo failed to find a suitable host, Wang Feng might be the backup n.


    After all, they shared the same sect techniques, and Wang Feng had excellent aptitude, making him apatible choice.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an had gathered the formation tes and gs from the nearby illusion array.


    This temporary formation was a simplified version, with reduced power and rangepared to sect formations of the same level. However, its consumption of spirit stones was enormous.


    "Not bad; it¡¯s a quasi-fourth-rank illusion array."


    With the formation dismantled, Lan Chang''an packed up his spoils.


    As for Wang Feng, he instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat to transport him thousands of li away and leave him in a random location.


    Lan Chang''an kept Wang Feng¡¯s storage pouch aspensation for his "medical fees."


    Wang Feng had suffered severe injuries after colliding with the stone wall, with dozens of broken bones, essentially rendering him disabled.


    Lan Chang''an healed him.


    He also loosened the seal on his consciousness, ensuring Wang Feng would regain consciousness within two days. Otherwise, if he¡¯d left Wang Feng in the rubble, he¡¯d have surely perished.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t concerned about what Wang Feng would think afterward.


    Wang Feng wouldn¡¯t retain any memories of that period.


    After their meeting at the Xunxian Residence, "Wang Feng" had departed first, with Lan Chang''an remaining in the city for two more months.


    Even if Wang Feng somehow developed a suspicion afterward¡­


    The one who should be wary would definitely not be Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an still had onest healing session scheduled with Wang Feng, after which he¡¯d be fully recovered.


    When that time came, Wang Feng¡¯s attitude would reveal whether he held any lingering doubts.


    ...


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was swift, returning to Qingsha Bay in less than a day.


    In a secret chamber on Autumnwind Isle.


    Lan Chang''an was slowly wearing down the restriction on Master Lihuo¡¯s storage ring.


    With the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s assistance, their progress was more than doubled.


    After half a day¡ª


    Pop!


    The dim glow of the restriction on the storage ring finally shatteredpletely.

 Chapter 253: Taking the Blame Once More

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    In a stone hall atop a concealed peak in the ck Fog Mountain Range in northern Jing Kingdom, Elder Wang, with his bushy brows and yellow hair, sat cross-legged in a gray robe, quietly regting his breath to heal his injuries.


    "Not good!"


    His expression suddenly changed. He pulled a scroll from his storage pouch, depicting a Daoist in purple robes.


    Sizzle¡ª


    A flicker of purple me appeared on the portrait, followed by wisps of green smoke as the image quickly dulled and turned a lifeless gray, like a death portrait.


    "This¡­ How can this be?"


    Elder Wang was stunned. After a brief shock, his predominant emotions were not anger, but rather a chilling terror and dread.


    A Nascent Soul¡¯s escape speed was several times that of other cultivators of the same rank. Typically, only another Nascent Soul cultivator with superior strength or abilities would be able to destroy such a spirit form.For anyone below Nascent Soul, capturing or killing a Nascent Soul spirit was nearly impossible, as their speed was on an entirely different level.


    Unless a group of elite Core Formation masters meticulously set a trap with soul-path treasures and somehow lured the Lihuo True Monarch into it.


    However, that scenario was unlikely. Core Formation cultivators would find it difficult to ambush a Nascent Soul cultivator with their keen senses.


    An operation like that would also create a hugemotion, and news of it would spread quickly.


    Elder Wang was aware of another possibility, however¡­ one he dared not contemte ¡ª a failed possession attempt!


    Given the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s weakened Nascent Soul, attempting to possess a powerful Core Formation master could result in failure, especially if he targeted someone like Elder Wang. But even then, a failed possession wouldn¡¯t necessarily mean the destruction of the Nascent Soul; he would still be able to escape.


    Unless, of course, the person being possessed was a Core Formation cultivator with an extraordinarily powerful soul, possessing techniques far superior to Elder Wang¡¯s.


    "My master¡¯s n would have only involved attempting possession of a lower-level Core Formation cultivator, not a peak-level Core Formation master..."


    Elder Wang¡¯s face turned ashen as he shook his head in denial.


    No matter the case, none of this was something that the now beleaguered remnants of the me Departing Pce could hope to handle.


    "Feng''er!"


    An idea struck Elder Wang, and he quickly took out a soulntern from his storage pouch.


    The me of the soulntern flickered steadily.


    Phew!


    Elder Wang let out a long sigh of relief; the worst-case scenario hadn¡¯t happened.


    If both his master and his grandson had perished, then any hope for the me Departing Pce''s resurgence would have beenpletely extinguished.


    "My master¡¯s life soul portrait has extinguished, and only I know this. I must keep this hidden as long as possible..."


    Elder Wang understood that if the truth got out, it would be a severe blow to the morale of the me Departing Pce''s remaining disciples. People¡¯s faith could quickly waver.


    Fortunately, only he and his grandson knew about the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s n to possess Wang Feng.


    To search for the culprit?


    Absolutely not. They couldn¡¯t act rashly!


    At most, they could conduct a quiet investigation. They couldn¡¯t afford to make a big fuss or dig too deep. Otherwise, they¡¯d only be digging their own graves.


    "When you reach the cliff''s edge, pull back on the reins," Elder Wang muttered to himself, steadying his resolve and quelling his desire to avenge his master.


    For the me Departing Pce, which was now teetering on the brink, restraint was essential. If they couldn¡¯t control themselves, they would only hasten their own demise.


    Revenge could wait until the me Departing Pce was strong enough to stand on its own again.


    Deep down, Elder Wang already had a prime suspect.


    There was someone with immense luck and formidablebat skills who held a deep-seated grudge against the me Departing Pce.


    That person wielded a true demonic me, unparalleled across several nations, which was highly effective against Nascent Soul spirits.


    ...


    Inside the secret chamber on Autumnwind Isle.


    Lan Chang''an and the Earth Burrowing Rat widened their eyes as they examined the storage ring they had just unsealed.


    The ring¡¯s internal space was not muchrger than an ordinary storage pouch. After all, it was a spatial artifact, requiring rare spatial materials to create.


    While the contents of the storage ring were fewer than expected, the spiritual pressure emanating from some of the treasures filled Lan Chang''an with glee.


    "A Millennial Soul-Nurturing Wood!"


    A floating piece of verdant wood immediately caught Lan Chang''an''s attention.


    This was a legendary soul-path spiritual wood, even rarer than other woods of the same level.


    Lan Chang''an had originally considered using the superior-grade third-rank Tong Ghost Bamboo as the embryo for his future life-bound magical treasure. But now, this fourth-rank Soul-Nourishing Wood presented a better option.


    Taking out the Soul-Nourishing Wood, Lan Chang''an felt aforting warmth wash over his soul, as if he were soaking in a hot spring. Even the energy drain from his second life¡¯s soul possession seemed to lessen.


    Just this piece of wood alone had made this endeavor worth it; it was an absolute treasure.


    "Two Nascent Soul-level magical treasures!"


    Lan Chang''an then noticed two powerful artifacts radiating intense spiritual pressure.


    Magical treasures were exclusive to Core Formation cultivators and above.


    They came in low, mid, superior, and top grades, with each level requiring significantly more spiritual power and mental strength to wield.


    Low-grade magical treasures suited Fake Dans and early Core Formation cultivators, though Fake Dans would struggle with prolonged use.


    Mid-grade treasures were best for mid- andte-stage Core Formation cultivators.


    Superior-grade and top-grade treasures were typically wielded by early and mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivators. Only if one''s mana is deep and spiritual sense is strong can they wield a higher-grade magical treasure across levels, but it consumes a considerable amount of energy.


    Above magical treasuresy spiritual treasures.


    Spiritual treasures, meant for Deity Transformation Realm cultivators and higher, were virtually extinct in the cultivation world. Any that asionally appeared were usually imitations or fragments.


    The two treasures in the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s storage ring were a green braided rope and a purple gourd.


    The braided rope was a superior-grade magical treasure. The Lihuo True Monarch had used it in their recent battle, transforming it into a whip-like lightning snake that almost entangled Lan Chang''an.


    The purple gourd, a fire-type top-grade magical treasure, was invaluable for an early Nascent Soul cultivator.


    The Lihuo True Monarch hadn¡¯t used this more powerful gourd in battle for two reasons:


    Firstly, his goal was to capture Lan Chang''an alive and dish out his secrets.


    Secondly, while possessing a Foundation Establishment cultivator, even wielding the superior-grade braided rope was already a strain. Though his mental strength was sufficient, his mana was woefullycking.


    Had it not been for years of refinement and some residual mana, it would have been difficult to control magical treasures at all.


    "Main ingredient for core formation, the Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower!"


    "Not bad not bad! Thispletes the ingredients for the Crystal Condensation Pill..."


    "Huh! Minor Teleportation Talismans!"


    Among a dozen or so third-rank talismans, Lan Chang''an found two special ones.


    These talismans weren¡¯t made from typical talisman paper but had a jade-like texture. In addition toplex symbols, they emitted faint silver patterns across the surface.


    Minor Teleportation Talismans were rare and invaluable.


    Back in the day, Li Hai, the top disciple of Liang Shaotian, and even Young Master Wang had used such talismans to escape life-threatening situations.


    Typically, Minor Teleportation Talismans ranged from third to fourth rank.


    Anything beyond that would drop the "minor" designation.


    The two he found were superior-grade third-rank talismans, theoretically capable of allowing escape even from ate-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    However, Minor Teleportation Talismans also had limitations. They were suitable for fleeing but not for pursuing.


    Since they involved spatial maniption, they were inherently unstable, and the distance and direction couldn¡¯t be precisely controlled.


    For example, if an enemy escaped a few li ahead, using the talisman might teleport you dozens of li away, making it harder to pursue.


    "What a brilliant refining technique!"


    Examining the two Minor Teleportation Talismans, Lan Chang''an couldn''t help but marvel at the craftsmanship, feeling that he was still far behind.


    The world of talismans was vast, and each talisman master could only master a fraction of them in a lifetime.


    Minor Teleportation Talismans were one of the few talismans Lan Chang''an had failed to master in his past life, mostly due to ack of materials to practice with.


    Above third-rank, talisman materials became exceedingly rare, especially forplex items like talisman embryos, talisman pens, and spiritual ink.


    Minor Teleportation Talismans required spatial materials, making them several times harder to craft.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had managed to reach the superior-grade third rank as a talisman master, though his skills were mediocre at that level.


    In this life, with renewed study and the insights he¡¯d gained from nurturing his own treasure talismans, he was finally beginning to reach a higher level of understanding.


    "Third- and fourth-rank pills, more than twenty bottles, half of which are for healing and cultivation. It seems he was preparing for possession and rebuilding his foundation."


    "Various third- and fourth-rank herbs, minerals, around thirty items."


    "Over a dozen high-grade spirit stones, several hundred mid-grade spirit stones¡­ totaling more than 200,000 low-grade spirit stones."


    Lan Chang''an suspected this wasn¡¯t the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s entire wealth.


    If it were him, he wouldn¡¯t store all his assets with a Foundation Establishment-level host body.


    In case of a strong enemy, the Nascent Soul could escape easily, but the host body would be doomed.


    Even so, this was Lan Chang''an¡¯s biggest haul in this life ¡ª or even across his past three lives.


    A single top-grade magical treasure alone was worth more than the worth of an average Core Formation cultivator.


    Unfortunately, as a Foundation Establishment cultivator, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t wield a top-grade magical treasure anytime soon.


    Moreover, the purple gourd magical treasure was likely one of me Departing Pce¡¯s signature treasures, a tantly stolen item.


    "A fourth-rank Soul-Nourishing Wood, Minor Teleportation Talismans, the Seven-Heart Mystic Moonflower, a spatial storage ring¡­ More than enough. One shouldn¡¯t be too greedy."


    After organizing his loot, Lan Chang''an gave any suspicious items to the Earth Burrowing Rat to dispose of at a distant location.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, rewarded with a few mid-grade spirit stones and a third-rank spiritual fruit, happily tunneled away.


    ...


    In the secret chamber, Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment, then entered the fourth frame of the Nine Seal Stele to further inspect the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s vast memory fragments.


    Half a monthter, Lan Chang''an shook his head.


    The memory fragments were too scattered and unorganized, with useful memories ounting for less than one ten-thousandth.


    This was likely because the Nine Seal Stele had shredded the Nascent Soul into particles, then jumbled and reassembled the memories.


    However, Lan Chang''an still managed to uncover a few leads.


    One memory fragment showed the Lihuo True Monarch sealing an underground pce and exterminating a group of warriors at an unknown location.


    The Lihuo True Monarch hadn¡¯t been injured at the time, indicating it was a contingency n set up many years ago.


    Additionally, shallow memories from Wang Feng suggested that the Lihuo True Monarch had entrusted a portion of his heritage and resources to Elder Wang.


    As the current manager of the me Departing Pce, Elder Wang must have promised strategic resources to retain the loyalty of the retreating sect members.


    In the cultivation world, wealth,panions, techniques, andnd were paramount.


    Wealth was ranked first. With sufficient wealth, the other three factors would naturally follow.


    This was why the me Departing Pce, despite losing their spiritual veins and sect grounds, still had hope for a resurgence.


    "Enough! If I don¡¯t resolve this karmic bond and convert the Lihuo True Monarch into my past life, I have no right to seek more. Greed will only lead to disaster."


    Deciding not to force it, Lan Chang''an resolved to focus on cultivation and improving his skills, no longer spending excessive time sifting through chaotic memory fragments.


    ...


    Half a year passed.


    The soul shadow of Lan Chang''an''s second life had finally dissipated.


    The white-bearded old man''s engraving within the Nine Seal Stele appeared dormant, but under the nourishment of his soul, it was beginning to reignite.


    Lan Chang''an estimated it would take less than ten years to fully reignite.


    With his soul now much stronger after advancing to Late Foundation Establishment, he believed it would only take four to five years at most.


    Before the second life possession faded, Lan Chang''an had crafted eight treasure talismans from the superior-grade third-rank Tong Ghost Bamboo.


    He also recovered the remaining half of the Tong Ghost Bamboo from Wang Feng¡¯s storage pouch.


    Since he now had the fourth-rank Soul-Nourishing Wood, he no longer needed to conserve resources.


    With the superior third-rank Tong Ghost Bamboo, he managed to craft eight superior quality mid-grade treasure talismans, with two of them being superior-grade third-rank treasure talismans.


    Typically, a talisman¡¯s power was equivalent to a single spell cast by a cultivator of the same rank and was weaker than magical treasures of the same level.


    This meant talismans posed limited threats to those of the same rank, and against formidable cultivators, they were practically scratch attacks.


    Quantity could bridge this gap, however.


    But superior-quality talismans were different. They could unleash the full force of a cultivator¡¯s all-out attack of that level, making them significantly more threatening.


    "Those eight talismans I used against the Lihuo True Monarch are now fully replenished, and the quality is even higher!"


    In the secret chamber, Lan Chang''an nurtured over sixty talismans.


    Eight of these, crafted from superior-grade third-rank spiritual bamboo, had immense potential.


    Based on his previous experiences, all of them could eventually be nurtured to superior-grade third-rank, or even top-grade.


    Two talismans were already superior-grade third-rank, with the potential to reach fourth-rank one day.


    "With my current Foundation Establishment cultivation, nurturing mid- to superior-grade third-rank talismans barely shows any progress!"


    Lan Chang''an estimated that he¡¯d need to reach the Core Formation stage to significantly enhance the effects of nurturing his treasure talismans with Evergreen mana.


    More than half of his talismans were crafted from second-rank superior-grade materials and had reached low third-rank. However, they were essentially capped at this level.


    The material limitations held them back.


    Unless he reached an exceptionally high level, such as Nascent Soul or even Deity Transformation Realm, he wouldn¡¯t have the "transmutation" ability to elevate low-grade talismans.


    ...


    Another two or three months passed.


    Lan Chang''an was now about to turn 160.


    There were less than two weeks left before his final treatment session with Wang Feng.


    Over the past half-year, Lan Chang''an kept an eye on information about the me Departing Pce through the Unseen Gate.


    There was no news of the Lihuo True Monarch''s death; the outside world seemedpletely unaware.


    Lan Chang''an could easily imagine that the current leaders of the me Departing Pce were suppressing the news to avoid a morale crisis.


    Most of the me Departing Pce cultivators were being closely monitored by the Unseen Gate, and none had traced anything back to the Wufu Merchant Association or Qingsha Bay.


    This didn¡¯t surprise Lan Chang''an.


    If his faction¡¯s only Nascent Soul True Monarch had mysteriously died, would he risk his life investigating or avenging them?


    If he didn¡¯t flee immediately, that would already show remarkable loyalty.


    Even if the me Departing Pce had suspects, Lan Chang''an would be far down the list.


    As a once-dominant force, the me Departing Pce had many enemies.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an had no enmity with the me Departing Pce. He even had cordial rtionships with some of their disciples, like Song Wenshu and Wang Feng, at least on the surface.


    Young Master Wang had encountered numerous cultivators while out gathering resources and searching for a new body. He and Lan Chang''an had been meeting for years; if Lan Chang''an had malicious intent, he¡¯d have acted long ago.


    And for a Nascent Soul to consider possession, Lan Chang''an¡¯s old, mediocre wood spirit root wouldn¡¯t have been an appealing target.


    Only if the me Departing Pce had some omniscient perspective or if Lan Chang''an bore a "hostility aura" would he rank as a prime suspect.


    "The me Departing Pce''s attitude will be clear depending on whether Wang Feng shows up for his final treatment."


    Lan Chang''an waited calmly, knowing he had plenty of life-saving trump cards, including the Minor Teleportation Talisman, in case any Core Formation Immortal dared to approach.


    As the scheduled day neared¡ª


    "Master Lan, there¡¯s been no sign of Wang Feng around Cloudsmoke Immortal City recently," reported Xing Peng, emerging from the shadows.


    "It seems Wang Feng may be suspicious or simply cautious, unwilling to travel so freely."


    Since Wang Feng wasn¡¯ting, Lan Chang''an saw no need to attend the meeting.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    An unexpected guest arrived on Autumnwind Isle to visit Lan Chang''an.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, this is something Young Master Wang asked me to deliver to you."


    Shen Bixin, d in widow¡¯s attire and veiled with a blue silk hat, hid her aging features. Beneath the veil, Lan Chang''an caught glimpses of her dark eyes and fine facial features.


    "Oh? Have you seen Young Master Wang recently?" Lan Chang''an asked as he epted the sealed jade box.


    Shen Bixin¡¯s visit was surprising yet logical.


    After Song Wenshu¡¯s death, Shen Bixin had borne his child, bing the widow of the me Departing Pce.


    It was through her that Wang Feng had initially sought Lan Chang''an''s medical help.


    "I haven¡¯t seen him," Shen Bixin replied in a calm tone. "This item appeared on my bed one night, along with a note from Young Master Wang asking me to pass it on."


    "Thank you for going to the trouble, Fellow Daoist Shen."


    Lan Chang''an courteously saw her out.


    Though they were old friends, there was a certain distance between him and the widow that he felt prudent to maintain.


    Back in his room, after carefully inspecting the box, Lan Chang''an unlocked the seal.


    Inside was a piece of mid-grade third-rank spirit wood.


    Beneath ity a letter.


    "...I apologize, Fellow Daoist Lan, for failing to meet our appointment at the Xunxian Residence. The other half of the Tong Ghost Bamboo, which Wang identally lost, is beingpensated with thisplete third-rank spirit wood. I assure you, the favor I owe you still stands," Wang Feng wrote, expressing his apologies and officially concluding their transaction.


    The letter also mentioned that with the precious resources he had received from his grandfather, Wang Feng could stabilize his foundation even without the final treatment session.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment. The tone of Wang Feng¡¯s letter seemed sincere.


    Out of caution, he had decided not to venture out, instead sending a letter through an intermediary to inform Lan Chang''an of his absence.


    If Wang Feng went silent after this, Lan Chang''an would suspect that he still harbored suspicions toward him.


    At the same time, this letter might also be a subtle probe.


    After some thought, Lan Chang''an took out paper and ink and penned a reply.


    "Thank you, Young Master Wang, for your generouspensation. I am honored and humbled..."


    His reply was filled with courteous pleasantries, expressing admiration and respect for Wang Feng.


    At the end of the letter, Lan Chang''an offered a heartfelt blessing:


    "May you soon achieve the Immortal Golden Dan and lead the me Departing Pce to greatness once more!"


    The main reason Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t taken action against Wang Feng was due to the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s lingering wish.


    To revive the me Departing Pce, train a Golden Dan cultivator, and establish a stable sect with spiritual veins, rekindling hope for a return to prominence.


    Additionally, he bore no personal enmity toward Wang Feng.


    Killing him wouldn¡¯t yield any benefits, nor would it reduce his risks. It might even hinder Lan Chang''an from fulfilling the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s wish, thereby losing the chance to resolve their karmic bond and gain him as a past life.


    Afterpleting the letter, Lan Chang''an summoned the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Shen Bixin''s flying speed was not fast, so the Earth Burrowing Rat took the letter to her, asking her to help pass it on to Young Master Wang.


    Lan Chang''an trusted that as the widow of a me Departing Pce disciple and being stationed in Jing Kingdom, Shen Bixin would have some means of contacting Wang Feng.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    In apound in a market town near Jing Kingdom¡¯s northern border.


    After reading Lan Chang''an''s letter, especially the sincere blessing at the end, Wang Feng was slightly moved.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan has a noble character, willingly exhausting his vital energy to help me restore my foundation. How could I¡­ have ever doubted him?"


    Guilt welled up in Wang Feng''s heart.


    The Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s death was known only to him and his grandfather within the me Departing Pce.


    He hadn¡¯t exactly suspected Lan Chang''an directly.


    His concerns had been more along the lines of whether Lan Chang''an might have been bribed orpromised.


    Perhaps he had unwittingly provided intelligence or cooperated with an unknown mastermind who ultimately led to the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s Nascent Soul¡¯s demise.


    To him, Lan Chang''an had been, at most, an aplice, which was why he¡¯d maintained a cautious distance.


    "My grandfather was right. The prime suspect is Liang Shaotian!"


    A fierce glint shed in Wang Feng¡¯s eyes.


    Afterward, the me Departing Pce had bought information on Liang Shaotian¡¯s activities during that period from the Tian Zhi Pavilion.


    The report stated that Liang Shaotian had been in seclusion for healing, but Elder Wang believed that this "seclusion" was merely a cover!


    As long as Liang Shaotian had not shown himself publicly during that time, he couldn¡¯t be cleared of suspicion.


    In the year prior to the Lihuo True Monarch¡¯s death, Liang Shaotian had led an attack on a me Departing Pce force, causing severe casualties, and had even fought against the Lihuo True Monarch himself.


    The Lihuo True Monarch had been heavily wounded, making Liang Shaotian¡¯s ambush all the more likely.


    "Liang Shaotian!"


    Wang Feng clenched his fist, silently vowing that once he achieved the Immortal Golden Dan andter advanced to the Nascent Soul Realm, he would avenge his master and eradicate the demonic forces.


    With his earth spirit root, he had superior aptitudepared to Liang Shaotian¡¯s high-grade spirit root.


    Back then Liang Shaotian had only formed an upper-tier True Dan under less-than-ideal conditions.


    But Wang Feng was the me Departing Pce''s only Golden Dan Seed and future Nascent Soul seed, receiving the sect¡¯s utmost resources.


    With his grandfather''s unwavering support, as long as he achieved the Immortal Golden Dan, he was confident that he would eventually surpass Liang Shaotian!

 Chapter 254: Striking at the Vital Spot

    Forgot to schedule the chapter, I am a little absentminded today


    In the blink of an eye, three years had passed.


    The destruction of the me Departing Pce had long be a thing of the past, with fewer and fewer cultivators paying it any attention or discussing it.


    In fact, in ces like Jing Kingdom and Liang Kingdom, the traces of me Departing Pce cultivators had almost vanished.


    Within Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world, the Golden Sun Sect, which had migrated northward, had initially stabilized the situation.


    On Autumnwind Isle, in the herb garden.


    Lan Chang''an, now over 163 years old, still looked youthful, with fair skin and a gentle, handsome appearance.


    "Have all the me Departing Pce cultivators moved away?"


    Lan Chang''an stood with his hands sped behind his back, facing away from the shadow of the fruit tree behind him.A voice came from the shadows, belonging to Xing Peng.


    "Yes, Master Lan. Hundreds of elite cultivators from me Departing Pce gathered and boarded a third-rank spirit ship, heading west toward the ''Seven Kingdoms Alliance.''"


    Lan Chang''an''s expression turned contemtive; he had heard of the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    Over there, the trade between cultivation nations was more prosperous, and their strength far exceeded the countries surrounding Feng Kingdom.


    "Does your Unseen Sect have any thoughts about me Departing Pce''s migration?"


    "Thete-stage True Dan Great Cultivator of me Departing Pce has recovered from his injuries and gathered several True Dan cultivators. With our numbers, we couldn¡¯t possibly contend with them. Even if a war broke out, our Unseen Gate has no desire to face arge number of cultivators head-on."


    The hooded man in the shadows shook his head.


    The intelligencework managed by the Unseen Gate extended far beyond the Feng Kingdom and the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    In regions already at war or about to be invaded, the Unseen Gate had spies embedded everywhere.


    "Any news on the me Departing Pce¡¯s Supreme Elder?"


    Recently, Xia Wenyue hadn¡¯t been on the ind, so there was no need for the two of them to be overly discreet in their conversation.


    "None," Xing Peng said in surprise. "I tried to probe the upper ranks, but it seems our sect has lost track of the whereabouts of Master Lihuo. In recent years, there¡¯s been no public contact between him and the me Departing Pce cultivators."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression remained neutral. Given the short amount of time, it was difficult for the outside world to guess that Master Lihuo had already perished.


    With the prolonged lifespans of Nascent Soul cultivators, it wasn¡¯t umon for them to go into seclusion to heal or cultivate for ten or twenty years.


    If too much time passed and Master Lihuo still hadn¡¯t appeared, suspicions would arise in the outside world.


    For now, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t too worried about getting entangled in the matter himself.


    By that time, he would have already be a True Dan cultivator, joining the upper ranks of the surrounding countries.


    Without realizing it, Lan Chang''an had reached halfway through the eighth level of Foundation Establishment, drawing closer to the ninth level.


    Returning to his cultivation chamber, Lan Chang''an closed his eyes and resumed his studies. He had almost fully digested the Returning Dust Core Transformation Method he had obtained from Zhang Tieshan.


    Without a master¡¯s guidance, he had to rely solely on his past life¡¯s experience and his own research and exploration.


    The method for reforming a core was rare and exceptionally perilous, requiring utmost caution.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had no experience with it; it was an entirely uncharted territory.


    His consciousness entered the Nine Seal Stele in his mind.


    The white-bearded old man of his second life was seventy percent illuminated. In another year or two, he would be fully revealed again.


    The figure of the Daoist in purple robes from his fourth life was dim and unstable, more insubstantial than the soul shadows of his first two lives.


    Over the past two to three years, Lan Chang''an had managed to glean a few useful pieces of information from the vast, chaotic fragments of memory, including some secrets rted to the me Departing Pce.


    Among the three reincarnation methods of the Nine Seal Stele, Lan Chang''an currently favored the second one¡ªthe reincarnation of this Nascent Soul into his past life.


    This method offered the most stable benefits.


    What tempted him the most was the insight and understanding gained during the Nascent Soul formation and tribtion.


    In his past life, Lan Chang''an had died attempting to break through to the Nascent Soul stage.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t put all his hopes on one path. Ideally, he¡¯dplete the wishes of Master Lihuo, thus resolving the karma and moving on.


    He was determined not to get himself drawn into the vortex of sect conflicts.


    The other two methods could also serve as backup ns, depending on how events unfolded in this lifetime.


    ¡­


    The next morning, Lan Chang''an finished his routine cultivation and nurturing of treasure talismans.


    Due to the limitations of his current cultivation level and mana, the effects of nurturing his third-rank treasure talismans, made with superior-grade second-rank materials, were negligible.


    The same was true for the eight treasure talismans he crafted from Tong Ghost Bamboo.


    In particr, the two third-rank superior-grade treasure talismans showed almost no change after nurturing.


    "The mana I¡¯m using to nurture them is too far below the grade of the talismans. I¡¯ll probably need to reach Core Formation to see any improvement."


    With his daily taskspleted, it was nearly noon.


    In the afternoon, Lan Chang''an would spend his time tending to flowers and nts or studying various arts of the cultivation world.


    In the evening, he would devote two hours to using the Foundation Establishment Spirit me from his Evergreen Technique to refine his magical treasure embryo.


    Lan Chang''an nned to use the fourth-rank Soul-Nurturing Wood as the embryo for his future wood-element magical treasure.


    For now, his primary task was to nurture the wood¡¯s spirit with spiritual fire to establish a connection with himself.


    As for the final form of the magical treasure, he hadn¡¯t yet decided.


    Ideally, he would seek out a trustworthy third-rank artifact refiner.


    Lan Chang''an already had someone in mind.


    With his simultaneous focus on talismans, puppetry, and alchemy, he had little time or energy left for other arts of the cultivation world.


    Among them, the Dao of alchemy was the furthest behind, as he hadn¡¯t even advanced to mid-second rank yet. Lan Chang''an was almost on the verge of giving up on it.


    "Strange! Wenyue still hasn¡¯t returned?"


    Three dayster, while taking his Profound Water Turlte for a breath of fresh air on Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an noticed something amiss.


    Over the years, Xia Wenyue¡¯s chronic illness had nearly been cured.


    Her body was no longer frail, and as a Foundation Establishment cultivator, it wasn¡¯t possible for her to remain on Autumnwind Isle all day.


    She would asionally go out for social interactions, clear her mind, or visit markets and cultivation cities to purchase supplies.


    Lan Chang''an understood that truly powerful cultivators had to go through the trials and tribtions of the wind and rain. Flowers nurtured in a greenhouse would never grow into towering trees.


    Until that evening.


    A white streak of light, exuding cold air, wobbled unsteadily as it descended onto Autumnwind Isle.


    Lan Chang''an''s expression changed slightly as he swiftly moved to support Xia Wenyue, whose aura was in disarray, her face pale.


    "Master Lan¡­ I was ambushed."


    Xia Wenyue''s hair was disheveled, and her snow-white dress was torn and stained with blood.


    She had a deep wound on her shoulder and another on her lower back, both ckened as if injured by a spell or magical treasure.


    Fortunately, the wounds weren¡¯t life-threatening.


    "Who attacked you?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was icy as he channeled Evergreen mana to stabilize her injuries.


    "It was a Fake Dan Immortal, dressed in ckbat robes, with his face concealed. If not for the life-saving items you and the n leader gifted me, I might not have made it back today."


    Xia Wenyue''s voice trembled with lingering fear as her chest heaved, her pale face gradually regaining some color.


    Momentster, a streak of light at the Fake Dan stage descended onto Autumnwind Isle.


    It was none other than the n leader, Xia Hongyu.


    Seeing Xia Wenyue¡¯s injuries, Xia Hongyu¡¯s face darkened, and despite his usual calm demeanor, a flicker of anger appeared in his eyes.


    "Talisman Master Lan, how is Wenyue¡¯s condition?" Xia Hongyu suppressed his anger, looking at Xia Wenyue with concern.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Patriarch Xia. Wenyue¡¯s injuries aren¡¯t too severe; her foundation remains unshaken. With some time to recuperate, she¡¯ll be fine."


    Lan Chang''an''s words eased the heavy weight in Xia Hongyu¡¯s heart.


    ¡­


    Half an hourter, Patriarch Xia and Lan Chang''an sat together in the study, discussing matters in secret.


    "Judging from Wenyue''s description of the assant''s methods, it sounds a lot like that old ghost Wu from the Xinyue Merchant Association!"


    "That old wretch! How shameless of him! A dignified Fake Dan Immortal stooping to ambush a mere early-stage Foundation Establishment girl." Xia Hongyu, usually refined andposed, was now livid with rage.


    The life-saving items Xia Wenyue carried included talismanic treasures, a quasi-third-rank protective talisman, and a third-rank escape talisman.


    In terms of survival tools, she was no worse off than the core disciples of a Nascent Soul-level sect.


    Without these measures, it would have been nearly impossible for her to return alive after being attacked by a Fake Dan expert.


    "What does the n leader intend to do about this?" Lan Chang''an asked calmly.


    The motive behind this attack was likely that the Xinyue Merchant Association suspected Xia Wenyue¡¯s potential and wanted to snuff it out while she was still in her infancy.


    It wasn¡¯t that Xia Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique had been exposed; rather, the truth is that one¡¯s greatest enemy often knows them best.


    The opposing forces had surely studied every key figure within the Xia Family.


    In the past, Lan Chang''an had advised Xia Hongyu to send Xia Wenyue to a major sect with a Nascent Soul True Monarch, but none of the three sects in Jing Kingdom were qualified for the task.


    However, Xia Hongyu was determined to keep Xia Wenyue within the family. He believed that as long as she advanced to the True Dan stage, the danger would pass.


    "Old Ghost Wu dared toy hands on the Xia Family¡¯s prodigy. Naturally, I intend to retaliate. An eye for an eye," Xia Hongyu said coldly, his gaze filled with killing intent.


    Lan Chang''an understood his meaning.


    Since the Xinyue Merchant Association had plotted against the Xia Family¡¯s talent, Xia Hongyu would target their own in turn.


    There would be no point in appealing to the Merchant Alliance.


    For such incidents, the Merchant Alliance¡¯s stance was that the user must provide solid proof.


    If the Xia Family suspected Old Ghost Wu, they would need to furnish irrefutable evidence themselves.


    Only in especially heinous cases that disrupted the bnce of power would the higher-ups of the alliance conduct a thorough investigation.


    "If Old Ghost Wu failed in his ambush, he¡¯s surely on guard now. If the n leader retaliates by targeting their young talents, it might not yield any results. Worse, you might fall into their trap," Lan Chang''anmented, disapproving of Xia Hongyu''s approach to retaliation.


    "Heh, I never intended to act personally," Xia Hongyu said with a sneer. "Once things settle down, I¡¯ll spend a hefty sum to hire assassins from the ck market."


    "As long as there are enough spirit stones, even a Fake Dan-level assassin can be hired."


    Xia Hongyu was, after all, a cultivator of the "health nurturing path." Given his advanced age, he preferred not to get his own hands dirty.


    "Simply killing one or two of their prodigies won¡¯t resolve the underlying problem," Lan Chang''an sighed.


    "Does Fellow Daoist Lan have any suggestions?" Xia Hongyu looked at him curiously.


    "To kill a snake, strike at its vital spot. To catch a thief, seize their leader."


    "You mean¡­ to eliminate Old Ghost Wu of the Xinyue Merchant Association?" Xia Hongyu raised his eyebrows, feeling that it was an overly ambitious idea.


    "To kill an experienced Fake Dan cultivator like Old Ghost Wu would require at least two of the same rank, or even a True Dan expert. That¡¯s beyond what I can afford," Xia Hongyu admitted.


    Among Fake Dan cultivators, strength differences were usually not vast.


    Defeating one might be possible, but killing them was exceedingly difficult.


    "I happen to have an old acquaintance from the Liang Kingdom¡ªan Immortal with exceptional abilities who is confident in taking down a Fake Dan cultivator. This old friend of mine recently arrived in Jing Kingdom and is in need of spirit stones, third-rank spirit items, and medicinal herbs..." Lan Chang''an said leisurely.


    "Your friend truly has the confidence to kill a Fake Dan expert?" Xia Hongyu looked at Lan Chang''an with a strange expression.


    The normally gentle Lan Chang''an, known for his easygoing nature, actually had connections to such a powerful assassin?


    "There''s a sixty percent chance. Patriarch Xia, would you be willing to give it a try?"


    "And¡­ the payment?" Xia Hongyu hesitated, worried that he wouldn¡¯t be able to afford it.


    "Only double the fee of a typical Fake Dan-level assassin. If the mission fails, the payment will be refunded."


    "Agreed! I may not fully trust this assassin, but I trust Fellow Daoist Lan''s character and integrity," Xia Hongyu decided quickly.


    If they could eliminate the Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s Grand Elder, it would significantly weaken their biggest threat to the Wufu Merchant Association.


    The Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s other Fake Dan expert had already been defeated by Xia Hongyu in the past, so he wasn¡¯t a major concern.


    ¡­


    Two dayster, Xia Hongyu returned to Autumnwind Isle, handing a storage pouch to Lan Chang''an.


    "Rest assured, Patriarch Xia. I will make contact with my old friend in secret at the earliest opportunity."


    Lan Chang''an took a quick nce inside the pouch, noting therge pile of spirit stones and a few third-rank spiritual herbs. He nodded with a faint smile.


    After Xia Hongyu left, Lan Chang''an removed a thirty percent share of the earnings from the storage pouch and casually tossed it to the ground.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat emerged from the ground and swallowed the storage pouch in one gulp.


    "In another six or seven years, I¡¯ll be able to advance to the ninth level of Foundation Establishment and start preparing for Core Formation. During this period, peace and quiet is paramount," Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    His willingness to help the Xia Family resolve this hidden threat stemmed from multiple considerations.


    Firstly, Xia Wenyue¡¯s perilous encounter had irked Lan Chang''an. Xia Wenyue was a seed he had nted, a potential key to his future Nascent Soul aspirations.


    Secondly, with Core Formation on the horizon, he required a stable environment for cultivation.


    Thirdly, the Earth Burrowing Rat needed to gain experience and hone itsbat skills.


    As for the potential risks of exposure, Lan Chang''an had already taken them into ount.


    Having spent so many years around Xia Hongyu, he had a good grasp of the man¡¯s character¡ªthey were very much alike.


    Besides, he had been with the Xia Family for years now, and once he reached Core Formation, he would be leaving this ce.


    By the time he attained True Dan, any minor suspicions would be of little consequence.


    In the cultivation world, who among seasoned cultivators didn¡¯t have some connections and a few hidden secrets?


    The following day, Lan Chang''an went out briefly and returned two dayster.


    Since it was the Earth Burrowing Rat''s first time involved in an assassination, itcked experience.


    He sought the assistance of the Unseen Gate''s Incense Master to gather intelligence, address any oversights, and pass on some expertise.


    ¡­


    After paying the fee, Patriarch Xia kept a close eye on Lan Chang''an¡¯s movements.


    During the two days Lan Chang''an was out, Xia Hongyu couldn¡¯t help but worry¡ªwould he flee with the money?


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an returned soon after, and life resumed as usual.


    Over the ensuing days, Xia Hongyu found himself in a constant state of anxious anticipation, his mind consumed by this matter.


    After all, he had paid a substantial amount for this; the oue would determine the fates of both merchant guilds.


    If it failed and left traces behind, it could lead to disastrous repercussions.


    Finally, two monthster, thrilling news arrived:


    Wu Feng, the Grand Elder of the Xinyue Merchant Association, had fallen to a mysterious assassination, leaving no corpse.


    A few fewer words today, the Core Formation plot is almost here.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 255: The Cold-Hearted Man

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    As soon as he confirmed the intelligence, Patriarch Xia instinctively turned his gaze towards Autumnwind Isle.


    For nearly two months, Lan Chang''an had been staying on Autumnwind Isle without stepping out.


    This was proof enough that the "Immortal assassin" Lan Chang''an mentioned wasn¡¯t just some fabricated tale.


    Xia Hongyu dispelled thest sliver of doubt in his heart and murmured, ¡°It seems I was overthinking things¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an had been cultivating for a long time, possessed exceptional skills, and had formed positive connections, so it was natural for him to have befriended a few Immortals.


    Xia Hongyu was simr in this regard. However, among the Immortals he knew, none were willing to risk themselves to take down the Fake Dan Grand Elder of a Merchant Association.


    After a fleeting moment of excitement, Xia Hongyu pondered for a while and let out a long sigh.


    ¡°To be able to call upon such a powerful assassin, this Fellow Daoist Lan is indeed no ordinary person,¡± he remarked as he stepped on his flying light and headed toward Autumnwind Isle.At this moment, Xia Hongyu realized that his previous interactions with Lan Chang''an had been sparse, and he might have put on the airs of a Fake Dan Immortal.


    ...


    ¡°Patriarch Xia, there¡¯s no need for such formality. It was merely a standard transaction. At most, I served as an intermediary. No need to thank me repeatedly,¡± Lan Chang''an said as they exchanged greetings in the main hall.


    He could sense that Xia Hongyu was much warmer this time, clearly intending to strengthen their rtionship.


    ¡°Does the n leader wish to befriend that assassin Immortal?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s unfortunate, but that Immortal acquaintance of mine has a rather unique status and a solitary nature. In Jing Kingdom, aside from myself, they don¡¯t trust other cultivators,¡± Lan Chang''an exined, deflecting the inquiry with a usible excuse.


    Hearing this, Patriarch Xia showed a look of disappointment.


    Such a clean assassination of Old Ghost Wu, without leaving a single trace¡ªLan Chang''an¡¯s Immortal acquaintance was likely a True Dan expert.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan previously suggested that, with Wenyue¡¯s aptitude, she should be sent to a major Nascent Soul sect. Xia actually understands that this would be the best choice for her,¡± Xia Hongyu said with a bitter smile.


    ¡°After the recent danger, I¡¯m prepared to seriously consider your advice, Fellow Daoist Lan, and look for a suitable sect for her.¡±


    ¡°There are few choices that are perfect for both sides,¡± Lan Chang''an responded, ¡°But your selflessness, n leader, in considering Wenyue¡¯s future, is truly admirable.¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood that if Xia Wenyue, as a female cultivator, joined a major sect and reached higher levels, she would be less tied to the Xia Family, even if she didn¡¯t marry.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an hade from a cultivation family that had once produced a genius with an earth spiritual root.


    The family had sent that genius to a sect and spared no resources as support.


    However, after the genius reached the Core Formation stage, they gradually grew distant from the family. In the family''s time of greatest crisis, they didn¡¯t lend a hand.


    If that earth spiritual root genius had sessfully reached the Nascent Soul Realm, they may still be alive today.


    Although this was just one example and didn¡¯t represent most cases, in the world of cultivation, the higher one¡¯s level, the more prone one was to emotional detachment.


    ...


    Xia Hongyu¡¯s change of heart was also out of helplessness.


    He had overestimated the time he could keep this secret under wraps. If he dyed for another few decades, Wenyue¡¯s cultivation would be higher, and her ability to protect herself stronger.


    Currently, only the Xinyue Merchant Association, the enemy faction, had suspicions but couldn¡¯t bepletely certain.


    Other factions wouldn¡¯t pay this much attention. But in a few more years, the truth would eventuallye out.


    ¡°Patriarch Xia, have you thought about which sect to send Wenyue to?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°I would prefer to send Wenyue to one of the three major sects in Jing Kingdom. I have some acquaintances among their Immortals, so they might be able to look out for her here in our homnd,¡± Xia Hongyu replied with a bitter smile.


    ¡°But, as you said, Fellow Daoist Lan, Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique is rather unique, and only in a major Nascent Soul sect can she find the best soil to grow.¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood. If Jing Kingdom had a Nascent Soul sect, it would be the best choice, but unfortunately, it didn¡¯t.


    ¡°Do you have any rmendations, Fellow Daoist Lan?¡± Xia Hongyu asked.


    ¡°In the neighboring countries, suitable sects would be the Golden Sun Sect, the Endless Pce, and the Proud Moon Pce,¡± Lan Chang''an offered.


    The Golden Sun Sect had an ancient heritage and deep foundations, with various branches of cultivation techniques, and was backed by two Nascent Soul cultivators. Moreover, after taking control of Liang Kingdom, the Golden Sun Sect bordered Jing Kingdom.


    The Endless Pce had a slightly weaker heritage than the Golden Sun Sect, but it was currently the most powerful, with two Nascent Soul True Monarchs, including Chu Tianfeng at the mid stage of the Nascent Soul Realm.


    However, the Endless Pce was located in Feng Kingdom and didn¡¯t directly border Jing Kingdom; it instead bordered Liang, Chen, and Yan Kingdoms, so it is geographically well located.


    The Proud Moon Pce was not as strong as the first two, but it was still superior to the me Departing Pce.


    The sect¡¯s cultivation techniques leaned towards yin and cold elements, and women made up sixty percent of the disciples, making it a good fit for Xia Wenyue.


    The Proud Moon Pce was also home to the only female Nascent Soul True Monarch among the neighboring countries.


    ¡°I will give your rmendations serious thought, Fellow Daoist Lan. Additionally, now that Wenyue has reached the Foundation Establishment stage and holds the rank of n elder, her opinion must also be considered,¡± Xia Hongyu replied, having just changed his mind and realizing the need to n carefully.


    ...


    In a private chamber on the outskirts of Autumnwind Isle.


    Xia Wenyue held half of a broken jade pendant in her hand, her dark brows furrowed in faint sorrow.


    ¡°Mother, Old Ghost Wu is dead. Your vengeance has finally been avenged. But s, it wasn¡¯t your daughter who personally took down that wretch.¡±


    Upon reaching the Foundation Establishment stage, Xia Wenyue used her new status as a Foundation Establishment elder to investigate her mother¡¯s death. She learned that it had been orchestrated by Old Ghost Wu from the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    Back then, her mother had been both beautiful and talented, with the potential to reachte Foundation Establishment. But during a mission, she fell into an enemy¡¯s trap and was killed in a brutal battle.


    ¡°As for your final wish¡­ that I go to my father¡¯s family¡­ forgive your daughter for herck of filial piety, but I cannotply.¡±


    Xia Wenyue bit her lip, her eyes reddening, a faint shimmer glistening in her gaze.


    Through a sealed keepsake her mother had left, Xia Wenyue had uncovered some clues about her father¡¯s background.


    After breaking through the seal upon reaching the Foundation Establishment stage, she read her mother¡¯sst message.


    Her mother had said that if she ever resolved her illness and reached Foundation Establishment, it would be best to seek refuge with her father¡¯s family.


    However, through years of inquiries and some hints from Patriarch Xia, Xia Wenyue had pieced together a harsh truth:


    Her father was from a prominent cultivation family in Chen Kingdom. He had visited Jing Kingdom in his youth, where he met her mother, and they fell deeply in love.


    The man had promised to inform his family and return within three years to marry Xia Wenyue¡¯s mother. But decades had passed, and that man had never returned to Jing Kingdom.


    Xia Wenyue realized that her biological father was nothing more than a phndering yboy.


    A total scoundrel.


    If it had just been a brief romance, she might have understood.


    But why make such grand promises, raising her mother¡¯s hopes and causing her to wait in vain for so many years?


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s dream of finding her father shattered that day.


    ...


    Late the next night, the Earth Burrowing Rat silently returned to Autumnwind Isle.


    Apanying it was Xing Peng, the Incense Master from the Unseen Gate.


    ¡°Master Lan, this rat¡­ Rat Immortal! It¡¯s a born assassin!¡±


    "This Rat Immortal excels at concealment and has agility surpassing others of its kind, with perfect timing in its attacks. If carefully trained by the Unseen Gate, it has the potential to be a top-tier assassin for the Sacred Sect," the hooded man emerging from the shadows was full of praises for the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s performance on the recent mission.


    He looked at Lan Chang''an with newfound respect.


    In this recent assassination, the Earth Burrowing Rat had retained the strength of a standard early Core Formation demon beast, but its cunning and agility set it apart from others of its kind.


    Even so, Xing Peng, a Incense Master in the Unseen Gate, felt an invisible pressure from Lan Chang''an, whomanded a True Dan Great Demon.


    With the Unseen Gate¡¯s detailed intelligence and Xing Peng¡¯s guidance, the Earth Burrowing Rat had quickly taken down Old Ghost Wu.


    First, it used a third-rank earth spell to trap Old Ghost Wu¡¯s room.


    Then, it emerged from underground andunched a close-range attack.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had even learned to use poison, smearing it on its ws.


    ¡°Squeak!¡± The Earth Burrowing Rat presented a storage pouch to Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Good, it knows how to eliminate suspicious items,¡± Lan Chang''an remarked as he scanned the contents with his spiritual sense. The spoils were typical for a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Xing Peng¡¯s eyelid twitched slightly, but he dared not speak.


    ¡°No private stash, right?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°Nope,¡± the Earth Burrowing Rat responded in a childish voice, shaking its head.


    It had only taken a few bites, which didn¡¯t really count as a private stash.


    Satisfied, Lan Chang''an took thirty percent of the spoils.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, as a third-rank Great Demon, had little interest in items belonging to a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Aside from spirit stones, rare herbs, and some pills, most of the loot held little appeal for it.


    For instance, items like magic weapons, talismanic treasures, and low-grade third-rank talismans were of minimal interest.


    ¡°Oh!¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes lit up as he found a surprise in the storage pouch.


    Inside were two second-rank Life Extension Pills, likely prepared by the Xinyue Merchant Association for auction.


    ¡°Take your share as well,¡± Lan Chang''an offered, handing over another twenty percent to Xing Peng as payment for his efforts.


    Xing Peng, a Incense Master and a Fake Dan cultivator, deserved more than mere scraps.


    ¡°Thank you, Master Lan, for your generosity,¡± Xing Peng said gratefully, feeling rewarded after years of service.


    The remaining fifty percent was given back to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    ¡°Squeak! Thank you, master,¡± the Earth Burrowing Rat cheerfully epted the pouch.


    With opportunities to earn extra rewards, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s cultivation speed had noticeably increased.


    As a beast, it could directly consume raw spiritual herbs and rare materials for good effects, its digestion and detoxification capabilities far surpassing those of humans.


    After sending Xing Peng away, Lan Chang''an returned to his chamber and consumed the two second-rank Life Extension Pills.


    ¡°Three years of extended life.¡±


    ¡°Two more years.¡±


    A momentter, Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, expressionless.


    His lifespan had now increased to five hundred and seven years.


    ¡°Standard second-rank Life Extension Pills have nearly reached their limit. Going forward, I¡¯ll need to focus on superior quality second-rank Life Extension Pills.¡±


    Years ago, he had taken a superior quality second-rank Life Extension Pill, which extended his life by twenty-eight years without any diminishing effects from standard second-rank pills.


    ...


    Ten monthster, Lan Chang''an turned one hundred sixty-four years old.


    Over the past six months, the Wufu Merchant Association had been enjoying a period of unprecedented prosperity, with previous obstacles and challenges being swiftly resolved.


    The main reason for this turnaround was that their archenemy, the Xinyue Merchant Association, had encountered a stroke of bad luck.


    Originally, the Xinyue Merchant Association had two Fake Dan cultivators, and their industry influence was more than double that of the Wufu Merchant Association. But with the assassination of Old Ghost Wu, their strongest figure, the Xinyue Merchant Association could no longer hold onto its assets, giving itspetitors the opportunity to swoop in and take advantage.


    Several skilled Foundation Establishment escorts from the Xinyue Merchant Association¡¯s guard force had also perished, suffering a devastating blow to their power.


    The Wufu Merchant Association seized this opportunity to reim contested assets with ease, reiming previously disputed interests.


    With two Fake Dan cultivators on their side, the Wufu Merchant Association¡¯s expansion and annexation efforts promised that in a few years, they would undoubtedly surpass the Xinyue Merchant Association.


    Among the five founding ns of the Wufu Merchant Association, the Xin Family, which had been emboldened by Old Ghost Wu''s backing, became much more subdued and low-key after his death, even aligning themselves under the Xia Family¡¯s lead without causing any further trouble.


    Amidst this favorable trend for the guild, the Xin Family benefitted as well, enjoying the spoils alongside everyone else.


    Two months prior, the Xin Family had even approached the Xia Family with a proposal for marriage, suggesting that Xia Wenyue marry into their family.


    The Xia Family unhesitatingly declined.


    Following this, the Xin Family proposed a reconciliation, hoping for the return of Xia Shenn, Xia Wenyue¡¯s aunt, who had once married into their n.


    The Xia Family refused once again.


    In the end, only two marriages were arranged at the Qi-Refining level, with one young female cultivator from the Xin Family marrying into the Xia Family.


    With stability restored within the Wufu Merchant Association and external threats neutralized, the guild was making steady progress.


    For Lan Chang''an, this created a secure environment for cultivation in his final years at the ninth level of Foundation Establishment.


    When he eventually attempted to reach the Core Formation stage in Jing Kingdom, he would need a third-rank spirit vein. To secure such a resource, he would need a clean identity and a rmendation from the guild, which would increase his chances of approval.


    ...


    That night.


    Patriarch Xia Hongyu came to visit Lan Chang''an once again for a private discussion.


    This time, it was not just a meeting between the two of them¡ªXia Wenyue, the subject of their conversation, was also present.


    After carefully reviewing her intelligence and considering her options, Xia Wenyue had decided to join the Proud Moon Pce.


    In truth, Xia Wenyue¡¯s age and cultivation level were outside the typical range for most major sects to ept new disciples.


    Sects generally recruited disciples at a young age to facilitate long-term cultivation training, and they were reluctant to ept older candidates.


    However, for those with particrly outstanding aptitudes, such as those with earth spiritual roots or an innate Dao physique, these rules could be waived.


    As long as the individual¡¯s background was clear and they were not too old to have lost their potential, sects would dly ept them.


    ¡°Why choose Proud Moon Pce?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    Among the three sects he had rmended, Proud Moon Pce was not necessarily the best choice. Personally, he favored the Golden Sun Sect.


    The Golden Sun Sect was located in Liang Kingdom, neighboring Jing Kingdom, with a long-standing heritage, deep foundations, andpatibility with various cultivation styles.


    Proud Moon Pce, while strong, had a more specialized focus.


    There was also another important consideration: Li Erqing¡¯s son, Mu Jiuan, was a member of the Golden Sun Sect, giving Xia Wenyue a potential ally within the sect.


    ¡°I heard that female cultivators hold a higher status in Proud Moon Pce,¡± Xia Wenyue replied softly, lowering her gaze. ¡°And that sect has more resources suited to cultivating yin-aligned techniques.¡±


    A faint blush tinged Xia Wenyue¡¯s delicate profile, as if a natural flush adorned her cheeks.


    Over the years, she had graduallye to understand the secrets of her Dao physique, including the role of the Taiyin Jade Essence.


    She also understood Lan Chang''an¡¯s intentions.


    In Proud Moon Pce, female cultivators not only enjoyed better treatment but often had more control over their marriages. Furthermore, the temptations posed by rtionships with men were considerably less frequent.


    ¡°Master Lan has shown me great kindness, a debt that I swore an heart demon oath to repay. I cannot go against that vow,¡± Xia Wenyue continued.


    ¡°Moreover, Master Lan has a noble character and is untainted by mud. We have spent years in close contact, and he has never once overstepped boundaries.¡±


    ¡°I have never seen him entangled with any other female cultivators.¡±


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s feelings for Lan Chang''an began with admiration for his appearance and demeanor, deepened by gratitude for his medical skill, and grew into respect for his upright character.


    Where else in the world could she find such a man?


    Compared to her own heartless and unfaithful father, Lan Chang''an was worlds apart.


    Choosing Proud Moon Pce was her way of preserving herself for him, honoring the vow she had made.


    And she believed that, one day, the best version of herself would be worthy of standing by Lan Chang''an¡¯s side.


    ¡°Hm, considering it that way, Proud Moon Pce does seem suited for you,¡± Lan Chang''an finally acknowledged, unaware of her inner thoughts but supportive of her decision.


    ¡°We should leave without dy. I must bring Wenyue to Feng Kingdom as soon as possible,¡± Patriarch Xia Hongyu said, unable to hide his anxiety.


    A few days prior, the Xin Family had proposed a marriage alliance with Xia Wenyue, likely as a test.


    Shortly after Xia Wenyue had been attacked, Old Ghost Wu from the Xinyue Merchant Association had mysteriously died. As apetitor within the Wufu Merchant Association, the Xin Family might have started drawing their own conclusions.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s high-level talent was a secret that wouldn¡¯t remain hidden much longer.


    ¡°Take care on the road,¡± Lan Chang''an said, handing Xia Wenyue two third-rank low-grade talismans¡ªone for escape and one for defense.


    As for offensive talismans, she likely wouldn¡¯t be able to control them effectively, and she already had talismanic treasures prepared by the n leader.


    The third-rank talismans Lan Chang''an gave her came from his spoils of war. As for his own treasure talismans, even if it had lost some of its potential, he wouldn¡¯t easily give them away.


    Especially since Xia Wenyue was heading to a Nascent Soul-level sect, which might be able to identify the origin of the treasure talisman inheritance.


    ¡°Rest assured, Fellow Daoist Lan. With the wars now over, the cross-border routes are safer than they¡¯ve been in years, especially toward Feng Kingdom. Since Chu Tianfeng took control, he¡¯s tightened security at the borders,¡± Xia Hongyu said confidently. The guild¡¯s channels had mapped out a rtively safe route.


    Having traveled extensively across neighboring cultivation countries in his youth, Xia Hongyu was well-versed in the risks and challenges of such journeys.


    Lan Chang''an nodded slightly. In peacetime, a Fake Dan cultivator traveling to a neighboring cultivation country was rtively safe.


    Their path would take them to the southeast, far from areas frequented by the Demonic Sect.


    ...


    A few nightster, Xia Hongyu and Xia Wenyue quietly departed.


    Lan Chang''an instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat to trail them for a short distance, ensuring that they weren¡¯t being watched as they left the Xia Family¡¯s vicinity.


    Publicly, Xia Hongyu announced that he was entering secluded cultivation.


    On the outskirts of Autumnwind Isle, near Xia Wenyue¡¯s residence, Lan Chang''an left a Illusory Truth Talisman to mimic her presence.


    The longer they could dy anyone¡¯s suspicions, the better.


    If someone eventually realized that both Xia Hongyu and Xia Wenyue had left simultaneously, it would confirm any rumors.


    ...


    A few monthster.


    Rumors began to circte in the surrounding regions that Xia Wenyue possessed either an earth spiritual root or an innate Dao physique.


    The Unseen Gate took note of this information.


    Fortunately, the local operative in charge of monitoring this intelligence was one of Xing Peng¡¯s subordinates, under his direct control.


    Lan Chang''an had consulted Xing Peng about the situation. For the Unseen Gate, this information was ssified as secondary intelligence and did not hold significant strategic value.


    Reports of geniuses emerged from all over, and such news was hardly rare.


    The major sects and merchant guilds of Jing Kingdom were also paying attention to the rumor.


    Before long two of the three major sects of Jing Kingdom sent representatives to Qingsha Bay to inquire about Xia Wenyue.


    Some other mysterious figures were also spotted investigating.


    However, these matters were left to President Xia Yongzhong and Young Master Xia Mingqu to handle.


    Upon learning that Xia Wenyue had already joined Proud Moon Pce, the emissaries from the cultivation factions refrained from pressing further, offering their congrattions and establishing friendly ties instead.


    ...


    Just as themotion seemed to be dying down¡­


    Two monthster, the Xia Family of the Wufu Merchant Association received an unexpected visitor.


    ¡°Damn the Wufu Merchant Association!¡±


    High in the Nine Fiery Heavens, above the clouds, a massive iron fan magic treasure flew swiftly through the sky. Seated upon it was a young man with strikingly handsome features, d in resplendent robes, his expression dark with anger.


    ¡°A daughter with an innate Dao physique¡­ That is my brilliant offspring left out in the world! And the Xia Family dared to make decisions on their own, sending *my* daughter off to Proud Moon Pce!¡±

 Chapter 256: Foundation Establishment, Ninth Level

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    After Xia Wenyue''s departure, Autumnwind Isle became notably quieter, with only two new apprentices left behind. The first apprentice, Xia Mingcheng, had alreadypleted his training long ago.


    Every morning, Lan Chang''an stuck to his routine of cultivation and nurturing his treasure talismans, never missing a day.


    Due to the time restrictions of the Evergreen Technique, his daily progress in cultivation had a set limit; extending his practice hours or consuming additional pills would be ineffective.


    In the afternoons, Lan Chang''an would delve into the hundred arts of Immortal Cultivation, with recent efforts focused on puppet crafting.


    His proficiency in puppet techniques had reached the quasi-third rank several years ago, making him quite skillful.


    Over the years, he had acquired various third-rank materials and was now attempting to break through into the realm of a true third-rank puppet master.


    Speaking of which, the third-rank puppet inheritance that Lan Chang''an had in his hands was something he had traded from Huanglong Immortal back then.


    Breaking through the third-rank threshold was no easy feat, Lan Chang''an''s previous advantage in terms of spiritual sense was beginning to wane.With each birth of the Nine Seal Stele, the soul and spiritual sense were strengthened, but the magnitude of this boost diminished when entering higher realms. Thus, the benefits had be less pronounced over time.


    Despite this, Lan Chang''an''s talent for puppet techniques remained exceptional.


    As long as he sessfully formed a core, his spiritual sense and mana would surge, allowing him to naturally advance to a third-rank puppet master.


    "Hmm? Another Core Formation cultivator visiting?"


    Lan Chang''an was in the middle of refining puppet parts when he suddenly sensed something, turning his gaze in the direction of Qingsha Bay.


    In recent months, Jing Kingdom¡¯s three major sects and other cultivation powers had sent Core Formation cultivators¡ªboth true and fake dans¡ªto Qingsha Bay, seeking to recruit Xia Wenyue.


    The cultivators in Qingsha Bay had be ustomed to such visits.


    This time, however, Lan Chang''an frowned, sensing something unusual.


    Firstly, the spiritual power of the approaching True Dan cultivator was vtile and unrestrained.


    Secondly, the wave of recruitment efforts from various factions had already subsided.


    ¡­


    "May I ask which Immortal has honored us with their presence?"


    Currently, the one managing Qingsha Bay was Young Master Xia Mingqu.


    His father, Xia Yongzhong, was upied with affairs at the headquarters of the Wufu Merchant Association, and the patriarch had taken Xia Wenyue to Feng Kingdom.


    As ate Foundation Establishment cultivator, Xia Mingqu could handle most matters on his own, but the presence of a hostile Core Formation cultivator still made him anxious.


    "I am Xie Wuji of the Taihu Xie Family, direct lineage of the Heavenly Net Sect in the Chen Kingdom."


    The young man in splendid robes, appearing about twenty-five or twenty-six years old, stood atop an enormous iron fan magical treasure, his expression dark and displeased.


    "Chen Kingdom¡­ Taihu Xie Family?"


    As Xie Wuji¡¯s gaze locked onto him, Xia Mingqu felt a chill in his heart. The overwhelming spiritual pressure made it hard for him to breathe.


    The name of the Taihu Xie Family made him break out in a cold sweat.


    The Taihu Xie Family was not only the number one cultivation family in the Chen Kingdom¡ªit was also the most powerful faction within the Nascent Soul-level Heavenly Net Sect.


    Calling it a ¡°family¡± didn¡¯t even do it justice.


    Ordinarily, cultivation sects weed a diverse array of disciples, including those from both noble families and loose cultivators.


    The Heavenly Net Sect was an exception. Over centuries, it had essentially be an extension of the Xie Family.


    The origins of this dominance could be traced back several hundred years, when an ancestor of the Xie Family in the Heavenly Net Sect ascended to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Since then, the sect had devoted itself to elevating Xie Family disciples.


    Xie family members were prioritized for resources within the sect.


    As for talented disciples from outside the n, the sect sought to either coerce or marry them into the family.


    If anyone dared to protest against the sect¡¯s favoritism, there was little recourse; the Xie Family¡¯s Nascent Soul ancestor had long since subdued the other sects in the Chen Kingdom, turning them into vassals of the Heavenly Net Sect.


    These other sects were required to pay tribute to the Heavenly Net Sect regrly.


    They were prohibited from nurturing their own Core Formation cultivators, or risk facing annihtion.


    In short, the Taihu Xie Family was unchallenged in the Chen Kingdom.


    With such a background, many of the Xie Family¡¯s cultivators were ustomed to acting with impunity in Chen Kingdom.


    When they traveled to Feng Kingdom, they restrained themselves slightly, but upon entering Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, they were treated like nobility.


    Even the Merchant Alliance in Jing Kingdom had to tread carefully around the Xie Family¡¯s direct lineage.


    As a direct descendant of the Xie Family and a True Dan cultivator, Xie Wuji¡¯s status was self-evident.


    Back then, when Xie Wuji yed with Xia Wenyue''s mother¡¯s feelings, the Xia family dared not voice any objections and handled the matter quietly.


    This was because they knew he hailed from the powerful Xie Family in the Chen Kingdom.


    Though, at the time, they were unaware of his exact status within the Xie Family.


    While Xia Mingqu was momentarily frozen in shock¡ª


    BOOM!


    The massive iron fan magical treasure lightly swept down, tearing arge gap in the Xia family¡¯s protective formation.


    Even with their formation fully activated, it couldn¡¯t withstand a True Dan cultivator¡¯s magical treasure.


    Xie Wuji retracted his magical treasure, hovering above with his hands sped behind his back as he stepped into the Xia family grounds.


    "Immortal Xie, this¡­"


    Xia Mingqu¡¯s face darkened. His family¡¯s protective formation had been forcibly breached, which could be considered an invasion or even a deration of war.


    But with their patriarch absent and facing a True Dan cultivator from the Chen Kingdom Xie Family, Qingsha Bay had no means of resisting.


    Xia Mingqu could only swallow his anger, not daring to act out.


    "Has that old fellow Xia Hongyu not returned yet?"


    Xie Wuji, hovering slightly above the ground, asked in a cold voice.


    "To answer Immortal Xie, our patriarch has traveled to Feng Kingdom and has not yet returned."


    Young Master Xia responded cautiously.


    "I am Xia Mingqu, temporarily managing family affairs. May I know what guidance Immortal Xie has for us?"


    "I have a few questions. If you dare hide anything, don¡¯t me me for being merciless!"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s tone was full of wrath. He ignored the Xia family¡¯s hospitality and found a random pavilion to sit in, while Xia Mingqu stood nervously nearby.


    "Please, Immortal Xie, ask your questions."


    Xia Mingqu had a vague suspicion of the reason for Xie Wuji''s anger. It was likely rted to Xia Wenyue joining Proud Moon Pce.


    Even though Xie Wuji hadn¡¯t set foot in the Xia family in decades and had never met Xia Wenyue, the fact remained¡ªHe was Xia Wenyue''s biological father.


    "When was Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique discovered?"


    Xie Wuji proceeded to ask several questions, all focused on Xia Wenyue.


    As for her mother, he didn¡¯t mention her at all.


    Xia Mingqu answered carefully, not daring to hide any major details.


    Regarding the specifics, he was actually somewhat unclear.


    The full details of Xia Wenyue¡¯s talent were known only to Lan Chang''an and the patriarch within the Xia family of Qingsha Bay.


    "I heard that Wenyue had a teacher within the Xia family¡ªa man named Lan Chang''an, known as the ¡®Turtle Talisman Master¡¯? He¡¯s skilled in nurturing and healing, and he was the one who first discovered Wenyue¡¯s innate Dao physique?"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s tone was indifferent.


    "Yes," Xia Mingqu replied, steeling himself.


    This matter had already spread as a rumor: Lan Chang''an was skilled in cultivation techniques that promoted wellness and healing. After spending more than a decade curing Xia Wenyue¡¯s mysterious ailment, he discovered her extraordinary talent.


    Out of gratitude, Xia Wenyue wanted to be his disciple.


    However, Lan Chang''an declined, feeling unworthy. He only imparted some medicinal knowledge to her, taking her as an honorary disciple in name.


    Eventually, Xia Wenyue was sent to Proud Moon Pce.


    The outside world praised Lan Chang''an''s noble character and selflessness.


    For a time, Lan Chang''an¡¯s reputation as an honorable figure gained some renown in Jing Kingdom''s cultivation circles.


    "And was it Lan Chang''an who rmended that Wenyue join Proud Moon Pce?"


    "This¡­ I am not entirely certain," Xia Mingqu said, feeling cornered. He didn¡¯t know for sure and couldn¡¯t confirm anything.


    SLAP!


    Xia Mingqu¡¯s head jerked to the side as a burning handprint appeared on his handsome face.


    "If you dare conceal anything, I¡¯ll cripple your cultivation!"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s voice was ice-cold.


    Xia Mingqu''s mind went nk, blood trickling from his lips.


    Rage simmered within him, but outwardly, he remained frozen, silent.


    "Take this Immortal to see Lan Chang''an!"


    ¡­


    The oppressive aura of Xie Wuji, a True Dan Formation cultivator, was impossible to ignore.


    As soon as he arrived at Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an was already waiting outside his residence.


    "Senior Lan, this is Immortal Xie Wuji of the Taihu Xie Family in the Chen Kingdom, Aunt Wenyue''s biological father¡­"


    Xia Mingqu, his face still swollen, forced a smile and introduced Xie Wuji.


    In truth, no introduction was necessary.


    The conversation between Xie Wuji and Xia Mingqu had already been eavesdropped on by the Earth Burrowing Rat hiding underground.


    "So, you are Lan Chang''an, Wenyue''s teacher?"


    Xie Wuji looked at the serene, jade-like, youthful man in white before him, surprised.


    Despite having already heard information about Lan Chang''an, he was still taken aback.


    "I am Lan Chang''an, though I hardly deserve the title of Wenyue''s teacher. Our rtionship is merely one of medical guidance and medicinal study."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was calm, his manner modest.


    Thest thing he wanted was to end up like Xia Mingqu, pped in the face by a Core Formation cultivator.


    Even in the Jing Kingdom, Lan Chang''an had heard of the notorious arrogance of the Taihu Xie Family.


    "And how old are you?"


    "I will be one hundred and sixty-five in two months. Due to my cultivation technique, I also took a Youth Retaining Pill, which is why I look young."


    "One hundred and sixty-five?"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as he looked at Lan Chang''an with an unreadable expression.


    This Lan Chang''an was actually over thirty years older than himself! Yet his appearance was even more youthful, his aura and appearance no less striking.


    "Living together¡­ nurturing her closely¡­ a debt of rebirth and healing¡­"


    In a sh, Xie Wuji¡¯s mind filled with conjectures that were disturbingly close to the truth.


    It wasn¡¯t that Xie Wuji possessed extraordinary insight.


    It was because, back when he first met Xia Wenyue¡¯s mother, he had relied on his own good looks and eloquence to quickly win her over.


    Combined with his status as a member of a top cultivation n and his honeyed words, he had effortlessly ensnared her affections.


    Lan Chang''an might not have the backing of an elite family, but he had cured Wenyue''s long-standing affliction, spent years by her side, and possessed an extraordinary appearance, all of which would easily endear him to her.


    "And what business does Immortal Xie have here?"


    Lan Chang''an noticed Xie Wuji¡¯s increasingly cold gaze and even a faint sh of killing intent.


    "This Immortal will talk to Little Friend Lan alone."


    Xie Wuji''s face darkened as he took a deep breath.


    Thinking it over, he realized Lan Chang''an and his daughter probably hadn¡¯t taken things that far.


    If they had, Lan Chang''an would have hidden the truth, keeping Xia Wenyue close, instead of sending her to a major sect, and he certainly wouldn¡¯t be facing Xie Wuji with such calm and confidence.


    Perhaps this man truly was the noble, upright figure he appeared to be.


    ¡­


    After dismissing Xia Mingqu, Lan Chang''an led Xie Wuji into the main hall.


    The two sat down and began their conversation.


    The overbearing aura Xie Wuji had disyed earlier was now somewhat restrained, and he showed Lan Chang''an a basic level of courtesy as his daughter''s mentor.


    Beforeing, Xie Wuji had learned about Lan Chang''an¡¯s connections, including his friends in the Liang Kingdom, such as a talented third-rank formation master and a newly appointedw enforcement elder of the Jin Yun Valley.


    More importantly, his innate Dao physique daughter held deep respect for this man.


    "I came here today to hold the Xia family ountable. However, putting that aside for now, I must thank you, Fellow Daoist Lan, for curing my daughter¡¯s hidden illness and discovering her innate Dao physique."


    For the first time, Xie Wuji¡¯s handsome face showed a restrained smile.


    Lan Chang''an was unperturbed by this sudden change in demeanor.


    He was all too familiar with people like Xie Wuji¡ªthose who bullied the weak and ttered the powerful.


    On the surface, they acted tyrannically, but they were keenly aware of the social hierarchy.


    They bullied those below them but cowered before those above.


    ¡°May I ask, Little Friend Lan, does Wenyue indeed possess the ¡®Cold Soul Jade Marrow¡¯ constitution?¡±


    Xie Wuji¡¯s gaze was sharp as he looked straight at him.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t deny it.


    So it was true!


    Due to its proximity to Feng Kingdom, the Xie Family in Chen Kingdom was the first to confirm that Xia Wenyue had been epted as a personal disciple in Proud Moon Pce.


    If it had merely been an earth spiritual root, the news would¡¯ve been harder to keep hidden.


    However, an innate Dao physique could easily go unnoticed in its early stages, sometimes even manifesting as physical ailments.


    Thousands of years ago, the Taihu Xie Family had produced a cultivator with the ¡°Cold Soul Jade Marrow¡± constitution. Unfortunately, it had been a male, which led to severe side effects that eventually caused his untimely death.


    Thus, when Xie Wuji received word, he suspected Xia Wenyue possessed this rare constitution.


    The Xie Family¡¯s elders ordered him to do whatever was necessary to bring Xia Wenyue back into the family.


    In fact, the Xie Family had already tried contacting Proud Moon Pce.


    But Proud Moon Pce refused to arrange a meeting, citing Xia Wenyue¡¯s own wishes.


    Xie Wuji could easily guess that Xia Wenyue was deeply disappointed by his abandonment all those years ago.


    So he had decided to approach the Xia family and her mentor, Lan Chang''an, instead.


    "Was it you who rmended Wenyue to join Proud Moon Pce?"


    "I merely offered a suggestion. The final decision was hers."


    Lan Chang''an did not deny it.


    An inexplicable anger surged within Xie Wuji.


    If Lan Chang''an had dyed that rmendation, the Xie Family wouldn¡¯t be in such a passive position, with their innate Dao physique bloodline now under the control of another nation¡¯s Nascent Soul sect, making them aughingstock.


    "Little Friend Lan has made a grievous error."


    Xie Wuji''s expression turned icy as he suppressed his irritation.


    Were it not for his daughter¡¯s high regard for this man, he would have acted long ago.


    "I was unaware that Wenyue belonged to the direct lineage of the Xie Family in the Chen Kingdom," Lan Chang''an replied calmly.


    "Hmph! The damage has already been done, but I will give you a chance to rectify it."


    With a cold snort, Xie Wuji unleashed his spiritual pressure, akin to a muffled thunderp that rang in Lan Chang''an''s ears.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s face turned pale, and he staggered slightly.


    Gritting his teeth, he forced himself to speak. "What does Immortal Xie propose?"


    "My time with Wenyue has been limited, but you are the one she respects and trusts most in this life."


    "All you need to do is convince her to return to the Xie Family, to recognize her true lineage. This task shouldn¡¯t be difficult for you."


    Xie Wujiid out his intentions.


    "Wenyue has already joined Proud Moon Pce; it was her own choice. I fear I cannot persuade her."


    Lan Chang''an refused outright.


    "You¡­! Don¡¯t be ungrateful!"


    A frosty glint appeared in Xie Wuji''s eyes. He raised his hand, the power of his True Dan coalescing around it, but stopped short of striking.


    Lan Chang''an stood firm, prepared to fight back if it came to that.


    "Lan Chang''an, in consideration of your position as Wenyue¡¯s teacher, I am willing to give you onest chance."


    Xie Wuji''s tone softened suddenly, as he produced a translucent ss bottle filled with a faint blue liquid.


    "If you manage to convince Wenyue, the Xie Family is willing to grant you aplete set of resources for Core Formation."


    ¡°This is ¡®Pure Essence Water,¡¯ a rare Core Formation item. Consider it an advance payment, a gesture of our sincerity. Once you seed, there will be a Crystal Condensation Pill as well."


    Xie Wuji cursed inwardly, annoyed by Lan Chang''an''s stubbornness, which had forced him to offer such a valuable bribe.


    This Core Formation opportunity was something he had nned to keep for himself, intending to give Lan Chang''an only a meager reward.


    "A Core Formation opportunity?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes widened with feigned surprise.


    Xie Wuji smirked inwardly. Aplete Core Formation resource package was an irresistible temptation for ordinary families or loose Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "And if I refuse, what will Immortal Xie do?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "You have disrupted the Xie Family¡¯s ns. If you can¡¯t redeem yourself, why would I let you live?"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s gaze turned icy, his intentions clear.


    Seeing that Lan Chang''an was someone his daughter respected, he had chosen to offer both incentives and threats.


    "Very well, I am willing to try," Lan Chang''an said, appearing to relent.


    "But Wenyue has joined Proud Moon Pce, and contacting her is no easy task. She has also grown more independent since reaching Foundation Establishment. Convincing her won¡¯t be quick; it may take years."


    "How long do you need?" Xie Wuji frowned.


    He knew that with Wenyue joining Proud Moon Pce, it would be challenging to bring her back. The sect would undoubtedly keep a close watch on her, making this a long-term effort.


    "I will need ten years," Lan Chang''an replied.


    "Ten years is too long. I can give you five years at most."


    "Traveling to Feng Kingdom and back takes considerable time, and it¡¯s not always possible to meet with her. At least seven years, or I would rather die!"


    "Fine, seven years," Xie Wuji agreed reluctantly.


    He produced a third-rank spirit contract scroll.


    The Xie Family knew that it would take time to win over Xia Wenyue. They were prepared for a gradual approach, hoping she would eventually warm up to them.


    Xie Wuji was simply one part of their strategy.


    "Lan Chang''an, sign this third-rank spirit contract. I expect results within seven years!"


    Soon, Lan Chang''an and Xie Wujipleted the contract.


    The contract imposed significant restrictions on Lan Chang''an and promised him aplete Core Formation opportunity.


    ¡­


    Momentster.


    Lan Chang''an epted the Pure Essence Water and watched Xie Wuji depart from Autumnwind Isle.


    "Senior Lan, did Xie Wuji give you any trouble?" Xia Mingqu asked, his swollen face still healing from the ointment.


    "It¡¯s fine. As Wenyue''s teacher, he didn''t press me too hard. He only asked me to speak up for him in the future," Lan Chang''an replied casually before returning to his residence.


    Inside his private chamber, Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression darkened.


    "Chen Kingdom¡­ Taihu Xie Family¡­"


    He despised being threatened in this life and silently noted this grudge.


    The Pure Essence Water Xie Wuji had given him was a lesser version of Heavenly Essence Water, only slightly better than standard Core Formation items.


    Simr Core Formation items could not be stacked for additional effect.


    As for the promised Crystal Condensation Pill, Lan Chang''an suspected that Xie Wuji would cut corners, perhaps offering an inferior pill.


    After all, the spiritual contract didn¡¯t specify it had to be a standard-quality pill.


    "Still, with this Pure Essence Water, I can use it as a pretext when I eventually form a True Dan."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind umting more Core Formation items.


    As for the spiritual contract, Lan Chang''an only needed to wait for the second life to light up all the way to easily break it.


    Because Xie Wuji had been watching him closely, he hadn¡¯t attempted any tricks with the contract, ensuring Xie Wuji¡¯s trust.


    Considering Lan Chang''an¡¯s advanced age and loose cultivator status, Xie Wuji had likely never imagined he could form a True Dan.


    For aging Foundation Establishment cultivators with limited potential, heart demon oaths were often ineffective.


    ¡­


    One monthter, Patriarch Xia Hongyu returned alone to Qingsha Bay.


    He was dusty and weary but had a faint air of excitement.


    That evening, Lan Chang''an and Xia Hongyu had a private discussion.


    On his journey to Feng Kingdom, Xia Hongyu had traveled at a leisurely pace, bringing along Xia Wenyue, who was still at the early Foundation Establishment stage.


    After some twists and turns, he eventually met with Proud Moon Pce¡¯s senior management.


    "The third disciple of Long Yue True Monarch, a Core Formation cultivator, personally epted Wenyue as a disciple. I was even rewarded and spent some time as a guest at Proud Moon Pce."


    Talking about his visit to Proud Moon Pce, Xia Hongyu¡¯s face lit up with pride.


    Lan Chang''an nodded slightly. Being epted as a disciple by a Core Formation cultivator was a decent oue.


    Those who achieved an Immortal Golden Dan were often born with earth spiritual roots, among Nascent Soul cultivators, many even had heaven spiritual roots.


    To cultivators of such high caliber, earth spiritual roots or ordinary innate Dao physiques were neither rare nor irreceable. Beyond spiritual roots, they valued qualities like temperament, fate, and karmic bonds.


    "Did Patriarch Xia encounter any difficulties from Chen Kingdom¡¯s Xie Family on your way back?"


    Lan Chang''an asked.


    "Haha! At Proud Moon Pce¡¯s gate, some Xie Family cultivators tried to interfere but were warned by Proud Moon Pce Master. They even sent a formal letter to the Heavenly Net Sect. The journey back was smooth."


    Xia Hongyuughed heartily.


    To ensure Xia Wenyue could cultivate in peace, Proud Moon Pce had extended protection to the Xia family, warning off the Xie Family.


    As the two factions were of equal standing, the Xie Family would be reluctant to openly pressure the Xia family.


    "No wonder Xie Wuji hurried to confront the Xia family, wielding both threats and bribes. He was trying to take advantage of a window of time¡­"


    Lan Chang''an felt a touch of bitterness. While he was threatened in Qingsha Bay and forced to sign a spiritual contract, Xia Hongyu had been rewarded and shielded.


    Of course, even if given the choice, Lan Chang''an would never willingly go to Proud Moon Pce.


    With all the secrets he carried, he was in no rush to ce himself within the sights of Core Formation Immortals or Nascent Soul True Monarchs.


    ¡­


    After Xia Hongyu''s return, Qingsha Bay entered a period of stable development and prosperity.


    With Proud Moon Pce''s protection, and not being in the same country, the Xie Family had little means to trouble the Xia family.


    By staying in Qingsha Bay, Lan Chang''an was also indirectly shielded.


    He treated the spiritual contract with Xie Wuji as a formality.


    asionally, he would send Xing Peng, disguised with the ¡°Green Face¡± of the Unseen Gate, to wander near the borders, making a token appearance.


    As a True Dan cultivator in the Heavenly Net Sect, Xie Wuji was busy with his own cultivation and duties. He didn¡¯t have the time to monitor Lan Chang''an¡¯s every move across countries.


    In the blink of an eye, five years passed.


    Lan Chang''an had reached the milestone age of one hundred and seventy, which is considered advanced for a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    One day¡ª


    Within his cultivation chamber on Autumnwind Isle, a powerful surge of mana filled the air, stirring the surrounding spiritual energy.


    An invisible pressure nearly reached the peak of Foundation Establishment.


    "Fifteen years¡­ Foundation Establishment, ninth level!"


    Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, and within the cultivation chamber, two faint sparks of ethereal lightning seemed to sh.

 Chapter 257: Securing a Core Formation Site

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Having reached the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, Lan Chang''an now met the basic requirements to attempt Core Formation.


    Back then, Fu Xuemei had started her Core Formation as soon as she reached the ninth level, without consolidating her foundation for long, and ultimately seeded in forming a True Dan as well.


    But that had been out of necessity.


    In general, unless forced by time or circumstance, most cultivators would try to reach the peak of Foundation Establishment before attempting Core Formation to improve their chances of sess.


    If that was not feasible, it was still advisable to consolidate at the ninth level for at least a year or two.


    "At my advanced age of 170, I am going to take the path of Core Dissolution, so there¡¯s no need to aim for the peak of Foundation Establishment."


    Lan Chang''an had set his Core Formation attempt for a year from now.


    If he were to pursue the peak of the ninth level, it would take him at least another ten years at his current cultivation speed. By then, he would be over 180 years old, making him stand out even more.In theory, a Foundation Establishment cultivator¡¯s lifespan could reach 224 years, but most only lived to around 200.


    While cultivators focusing on life-nurturing techniques tended to live longer and stay in better physical condition, it was rare to see anyone at 180 still seeding in Core Formation. Such cases were virtually unheard of in nearby cultivation nations within thest millennium.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an intended to take the path of Core Dissolution.


    For his first Core Formation attempt, he didn¡¯t n to use external aids like Crystal Condensation Pills or precious Core Formation items, as he didn¡¯t want his initial core to be of too high quality.


    The higher the quality of the formed core, the more difficult and dangerous the core-shattering process would be.


    Given hisck of experience with Core Dissolution Techniques, he naturally had to y it safe.


    "Once I shatter the core and return to the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, my mana will be even purer. In the next attempt, I can improve the quality of the core I form."


    This was the principle behind all Core Dissolution techniques.


    In the process of shattering a core back into liquid mana, a cultivator inevitably suffers bacsh, which can damage their foundation to varying degrees.


    Even those with powerful backing would need years of careful healing and expensive resources to fully recover.


    In some cases, if the bacsh was too severe, it could ruin a cultivator¡¯s chances of ever forming a core again.


    But Lan Chang''an was different: his Evergreen secret spell could consume lifespan to heal injuries and repair his foundation effortlessly.


    As long as he restored his energy and adjusted his state, he would be ready for another Core Formation attempt in no time.


    He had already verified this back when Guan Qiaozhi failed her Foundation Establishment. The bacsh had been severe, yet he had been able to heal herpletely using the Evergreen Technique.


    In short¡ª


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t have to worry about damaging his foundation.


    After shattering his core, he could attempt Core Formation again without a long dy.


    Moreover, the Evergreen Technique¡¯s ability to heal with lifespan expenditure was nearly miraculous, capable of resurrecting someone from the brink of death.


    He had realized this years ago when he saved the eldest Miss Mu.


    This meant that the risks associated with the Core Dissolution process would be significantly reduced for him.


    If the bacsh during the process were to cause life-threatening injuries, Lan Chang''an could simply spend some of his lifespan to heal himselfpletely.


    As long as there was more longevity, he didn¡¯t need to worry about even the most severe injuries.


    This was why Lan Chang''an dared to attempt the Core Dissolution path despite not having a Nascent Soul guardian, even with the Returning Dust Core Transformation Method¡¯s mere thirty percent sess rate.


    Apart from the Evergreen Technique, he had two additional advantages.


    Firstly, he possessed the soul shadow of his second life.


    Now that the second life imprint on the Nine Seal Stele had been fully activated, he had ess to the full power of his past life as a peak Core Formation cultivator, with a soul that merged perfectly with his current self.


    This gave him the level of control over his mana that a peak Core Formation cultivator would have, which was even more beneficial than having a Nascent Soul True Monarch guardian.


    During the Core Dissolution process, a guardian¡¯s help was ultimately external support. At most, they could preserve his life and help stabilize his internal energy flow.


    Secondly, he had a body tempered to the level of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    After studying the Returning Dust Core Transformation Method, Lan Chang''an realized that a strong body also reduced the risks of the Core Dissolution process.


    "A Core Formation peak''s spiritual sense control, a Fake Dan-level body, and the life-saving Evergreen secret spell¡­ the Core Dissolution path is simply tailor-made for me."


    The more he thought about it, the more confident he felt about his n.


    If he chose not to pursue Core Dissolution, he could rely on his current resources to have a ny-nine percent chance of forming a mid-tier True Dan.


    For an upper-grade core, he still had over a seventy percent chance.


    As for an Immortal Golden Dan, his chances were slim.


    Although his Evergreen Technique provided a solid foundation and his core-forming resources were excellent, his low-grade wood spiritual root held him back.


    Even so, he had a high probability of forming an upper-tier True Dan¡ªsomething usually reserved for cultivators with earth spiritual roots.


    But Lan Chang''an¡¯s goal in this life was to reach the Nascent Soul Realm. To improve his odds, he needed to at least attempt for an Immortal Golden Dan.


    Even if he couldn¡¯t achieve a Golden Dan, he would aim for the finest True Dan possible, one that approached the threshold of a Golden Dan as much as possible.


    ¡­


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an flew to the heart of Qingsha Bay to visit Patriarch Xia.


    Inside the tea room at Water Curtain Cave, Patriarch Xia warmly weed him and brought out a treasured third-rank spiritual tea.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯ve only just reached the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, and you¡¯re already preparing for Core Formation?"


    After a cup of tea and hearing Lan Chang''an¡¯s intentions, Patriarch Xia looked shocked.


    "At my age of over 170, I can¡¯t afford to wait any longer. Even if I cultivate life-nurturing technique, my physical state will gradually decline with each passing year, reducing my chances of sess in Core Formation," Lan Chang''an exined, his tone resigned.


    Patriarch Xia sighed. "It¡¯s hard to have it both ways, but I¡¯d still suggest consolidating your foundation for at least a year or two."


    "There¡¯s no time," Lan Chang''an shook his head. "I was recently forced into signing a third-rank spiritual contract with a True Dan cultivator from the Xie Family of Chen Kingdom. Only by advancing to a higher realm will I stand a better chance of dealing with it¡­"


    "Xie Wuji? A third-rank spiritual contract?"


    Hearing the details, Patriarch Xia¡¯s expression turned serious.


    This was indeed a tricky situation.


    A third-rank spiritual contract targeted Core Formation cultivators.


    Even if Xie Wuji¡¯s contract was an ordinary one, most True Dan cultivators would find it difficult to resist the bacsh it imposed.


    Only top-tier Core Formation experts or those with spiritual senses close to the Nascent Soul Realm could hope to resist or dissolve it.


    But Lan Chang''an, with his previous life¡¯s soul fusion, already possessed spiritual strength beyond the level of a Core Formation expert, which made breaking the contract possible.


    If he seeded in forming a True Dan, his spiritual sense would surge, making it even easier to break free.


    "My mind is made up¡ªI¡¯ll attempt Core Formation in one year."


    Seeing Lan Chang''an¡¯s resolve, Patriarch Xia sighed and decided not to press the matter further.


    "Where do you n to attempt Core Formation? The Wufu Merchant Association can act as your guarantor and help you rent a third-rank spiritual vein site."


    Without waiting for Lan Chang''an to ask, Patriarch Xia offered his assistance.


    Lan Chang''an had once saved Xia Shenn, leaving the Xia family in his debt.


    A third-rank spiritual vein was a crucial factor in Core Formation.


    If the spiritual energy was insufficient or of low quality, it could lead to unstable energy flow and drastically reduce the chances of sess.


    This was the nd" in the saying "Wealth, Companionship, Techniques, and Land," emphasizing the importance of location and spiritual resources.


    If a cultivator could seed by simply digging a hole in the wilderness, then the life of a loose cultivator would be far easier.


    In the cultivation world, sects, noble families, and merchant guilds monopolized high-grade spiritual vein sites, controlling these critical resources.


    The main reason the Jing Kingdomcked Nascent Soul cultivators was the absence of a fourth-rank spiritual vein.


    Nearby, Liang Kingdom and Chen Kingdom each had a fourth-rank spiritual vein, thus each supporting a Nascent Soul-level sect.


    "How about Cloudsmoke Immortal City? It¡¯s nearby."


    Among the immortal cities in Jing Kingdom, Lan Chang''an was most familiar with Cloudsmoke.


    Speaking of which, over the years, he had been so focused on cultivation that he hadn''t contacted Hanyu Immortal of the Snow Fox Merchant Association much.


    "That¡¯s a good choice," Patriarch Xia nodded. "Back then when you first arrived in the Jing Kingdom, you got your identity token as a Merchant Alliance cultivator, so with our merchant guild vouching for you, it won¡¯t be difficult to arrange."


    "All you need to do is pay a fee to rent a third-rank spiritual vein site and prepare for Core Formation."


    Drawingrge amounts of spiritual energy for Core Formation would disrupt the flow in a third-rank vein and the city''s protective formation, so permission from the city authorities was required.


    In addition to verifying identity, a significant fee was necessary to pay the owners of the spiritual vein site.


    Having been in Jing Kingdom for years and with local backing, Lan Chang''an¡¯s application process would be rtively smooth.


    ¡­


    Over the following months, Lan Chang''an continued to consolidate his foundation while waiting.


    "The final requirement for Core Formation¡­ I hope everything goes smoothly."


    Even with the experience from his past life, Lan Chang''an felt a bit of nervous anticipation.


    In his previous life, he had encountered some obstacles when forming his core.


    Two monthster.


    An Immortal from the Merchant Alliance arrived, apanied by Patriarch Xia, to conduct an initial verification of Lan Chang''an¡¯s identity.


    Lan Chang''an discreetly presented a small gift.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, the review process is stricter than in previous years."


    After seeing off the Merchant Alliance Immortal, Patriarch Xia spoke seriously.


    "With the influx of cultivators from the Liang Kingdom and the infiltration of the demonic Unseen Gate, the Merchant Alliance has tightened its scrutiny!"


    "In the past, bribing with extra spirit stones or treasures could get you ess to a third-rank spiritual vein, even if you were a loose cultivator or had an unclear background."


    "However, Fellow Daoist Lan, please rest assured! Your record is spotless and without any criminal history; you¡¯ll pass the review."


    After a few reassuring words, Patriarch Xia left to handle more matters on Lan Chang''an¡¯s behalf.


    Another three months passed.


    Finally, good news arrived from Patriarch Xia.


    Lan Chang''an traveled to the nearby Merchant Alliance station, where he underwent a final review and received a token confirming his verified identity.


    After nearly half a year, Lan Chang''an had secured his Core Formation site.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, luckily your record is clean and your reputation is good," Patriarch Xia remarked afterward. "Otherwise, in these tense times, the Merchant Alliance is being exceptionally harsh in its review of foreign cultivators."


    As he exined, he revealed that some foreign cultivators, even with sponsorship from local merchant guilds, had either been denied or dyed for further investigation.


    "Maybe it¡¯s true that good deedse back to you," Lan Chang''an replied with a smile, realizing that his steady approach to building connections and goodwill had indeed paid off.


    Had he been quarrelsome and antagonistic, he might have faced obstacles, perhaps even deliberate attempts to sabotage his Core Formation.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, if you trust me, I would be honored to act as your guardian during Core Formation," Patriarch Xia offered kindly.


    To act as a "guardian" was to provide post-failure support, potentially life-saving aid.


    Failing at Core Formation often left cultivators gravely injured; without a guardian to help stabilize them, they were in mortal peril.


    Given Lan Chang''an¡¯s advanced age for a Foundation Establishment cultivator, Patriarch Xia was realistic about his sess odds.


    Even forming a Fake Dan would be considered a stroke of luck.


    Patriarch Xia himself had attempted Core Formation at an age twenty years younger than Lan Chang''an was now.


    ¡­


    Shortly after Lan Chang''an passed the Merchant Alliance¡¯s review, a shocking piece of news spread throughout Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, even reaching neighboring nations.


    "The Xuan Yin Demonic Sect has upied a spiritual vein and formally established itself as a sect, openly recruiting disciples?"


    When Lan Chang''an heard this, he was astonished.


    In the past, demonic sects were unrecognized and operated in the shadows, growing quietly without openly iming territory or recruiting.


    Now, one had brazenly established itself as a legitimate sect, vying with established sects on equal footing?


    The Xuan Yin Demonic Sect had set up in the outskirts of the ck Fog Mountain Range, between Liang and Jing Kingdom¡ªcloser to Jing, in fact.


    "The three major sects of Jing Kingdom are letting this slide?"


    Lan Chang''an quickly obtained more information and insider details from Xing Peng, an Incense Master of the Unseen Gate.


    Supposedly, the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect¡¯s establishment had been tacitly approved by Chu Tianfeng, the most powerful cultivator in Feng Kingdom.


    Naturally, Jing Kingdom¡¯s three major sects were displeased and protested.


    How could we sleep soundly with a rival at our doorstep?


    Half a month ago, the three sects had dispatched threete-stage Core Formation experts to duel and wager against Liang Shaotian, a mid-stage Core Formation expert.


    Liang Shaotian defeated two of Jing Kingdom¡¯ste-stage Core Formation experts in a row.


    He fought the third to a draw, despite the opponent being at the peak of Core Formation.


    As a result, Jing Kingdom¡¯s three sects lost the wager, effectively conceding the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect''s right to operate on Jing Kingdom¡¯s border.


    From now on, the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect would be allowed to openly recruit disciples from nearby regions.


    Moreover, their cultivators could freely visit major immortal cities and market towns.


    In simple terms, the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect would be legal in the future.


    "Liang Shaotian¡¯s growth is terrifying; he¡¯s as fast as an earth spiritual root talent! And his power even lets him fight above his level," Lan Chang''an thought with shock.


    In his past life, his own strength had been on par with an ordinaryte-stage Core Formation cultivator from Jing Kingdom¡¯s sects¡ªlikely on the level of the two that Liang Shaotian had defeated.


    "Liang Shaotian is still only mid-stage Core Formation. If he advances to thete stage, he might be the strongest below Nascent Soul in all neighboring cultivation nations."


    "With this guy''s merciless and unpredictable nature, Chu Tianfeng is taking a big risk by allowing this potential threat to grow unchecked¡­"


    ording to information from the Unseen Gate, the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect originated from the remnants of the former Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, which was once one of the Seven Giants of the demonic path.


    Due to ideological differences and internal conflicts, the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect had broken away from the Seven Giants, eventually declining due to various factors.


    The new Xuan Yin Demonic Sect was essentially a significant offshoot of the old Xuan Yin Demonic Sect.


    Now, the six demonic sects were eyeing Feng Kingdom hungrily, seeking an opportunity to expand. The Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, sharing origins with the six sects, was still somewhat connected to them.


    Most Nascent Soul experts would have chosen to eradicate the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, seeing it as a potential threat, but Chu Tianfeng took the opposite approach, supporting their establishment as an official sect.


    "Liang Shaotian may be powerful and unpredictable, but at least he holds a certain respect for ''Senior Yan''¡­"


    ¡­


    Half a yearter.


    At the age of 171, Lan Chang''an arrived in Cloudsmoke Immortal City with Patriarch Xia¡¯s apaniment.


    To use the third-rank spiritual vein, Lan Chang''an needed to pay a considerable fee.


    Patriarch Xia had arranged this payment in advance as a gesture of goodwill.


    Now, all that remained was for Lan Chang''an to check in with the city authorities to finalize his rental of the third-rank spiritual vein site for his Core Formation attempt.


    Inside the main hall at the center of Cloudsmoke Immortal City¡ª


    "Fellow Daoists, I¡¯m afraid there¡¯s a bit of a dy. Your reserved Core Formation time will need to be pushed back by at least one or two months."


    A Fake Dan cultivator dressed in crane robes, the deputy city lord, spoke with a nk expression.


    "Lord Gongyang, but we booked this time slot in advance¡­" Patriarch Xia said with a forced smile, discreetly handing over a bag of spirit stones.


    The crane-robed cultivator, Gongyang, was the deputy city lord of Cloudsmoke Immortal City. His affiliated merchant guild was one of the city¡¯s stakeholders.


    "Sigh, Fellow Daoist Xia, it¡¯s not that I¡¯m unwilling to help. The Snow Fox Merchant Association happens to have a peak Foundation Establishment cultivator who needs to form a core," Deputy City Lord Gongyang shook his head, pushing back Patriarch Xia¡¯s spirit stone pouch.


    "The Snow Fox Merchant Association?"


    Patriarch Xia looked resigned. It seemed Gongyang wasn¡¯t deliberately making things difficult.


    The Snow Fox Merchant Association was a renowned merchant organization in the Jing Kingdom Merchant Alliance.


    They had True Dan cultivators as well as several Fake Dan cultivators and even quasi-third-rank spirit beasts.


    The Snow Fox Merchant Association was also one of the powers in Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    "Just one or two months. It¡¯s no big deal."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind the dy.


    Core Formation required a massive amount of spiritual energy. Naturally, the city wouldn¡¯t allow multiple cultivators to attempt Core Formation simultaneously, as that would ce a heavy burden on the third-rank spiritual vein.


    As Lan Chang''an and Patriarch Xia left, Deputy City Lord Gongyang¡¯s face showed a contemtive expression.


    In truth, the Snow Fox cultivator hadn¡¯t requested to cut in line, but Deputy City Lord Gongyang valued his rtionship with the Snow Fox Merchant Association and wanted to strengthen it, so he decided to make Lan Chang''an wait.


    "That young man looks youthful, but he¡¯s actually over 170. His chances of even forming a Fake Dan are slim."


    "Wait¡­ if he fails and dies in the third-rank spiritual vein, that would be bad luck¡­"


    As the manager of the spiritual vein sites, Deputy City Lord Gongyang naturally had ess to Lan Chang''an¡¯s review documents.


    He didn¡¯t expect Lan Chang''an to seed in forming a core; he just hoped he wouldn¡¯t die in the attempt.


    ¡­


    Lan Chang''an and Patriarch Xia booked an inn in the city.


    That night¡ª


    The Earth Burrowing Rat brought Lan Chang''an a message token.


    Over the years, he hadn¡¯t been in touch with Hanyu Immortal from the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    The two of them had hidden contact locations in the Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an used a special technique to break the seal on the message token and read the contents.


    "Big Brother Xiang, why haven¡¯t youe to discuss the Dao with me these past two years?"


    Discussing the Dao was their code for arranging a meeting.


    "Big Brother Xiang, my merchant guild has a favor to ask of you. Please respond as soon as possible."


    "Big Brother Xiang, if you don¡¯t reply, I¡¯lle looking for you."


    The initial messages seemed normal.


    "You¡­ who are you, really? Why did you pretend to be Xiang Immortal and deceive me?"


    Seeing this penultimate message, Lan Chang''an¡¯s lips twitched.


    Damn!


    In the years he hadn¡¯t been cultivating this identity, "Xiang Immortal" had finally been exposed.


    With two months to wait in the city, Lan Chang''an had initially nned to meet Hanyu Immortal for a Dao discussion.


    Some rxation before Core Formation could actually help him ease his mind, excessive stress or tension would hinder breakthroughs.


    "Forget it!"


    He dismissed the idea.


    After all, it was merely a fleeting, mutually beneficial rtionship¡ªneither owed the other anything.


    He opened the final message token.


    "No matter who you truly are, our time discussing the Dao together was meaningful. I will wait quietly for your return."


    Lan Chang''an felt a pang of difort.


    Now that his identity had been exposed, he wouldn¡¯t take any unnecessary risks by meeting Hanyu Immortal before his Core Formation.


    Who knew if she held a grudge?


    Crack!


    Lan Chang''an crushed the message tokens in his hand, destroying them all.


    Since his disguise had beenpromised¡ª


    Their connection ended here!


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 258: Second Life Core Formation

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Cloudsmoke Immortal City was a city built on water, jointly controlled by several merchant guilds within the Merchant Alliance.


    Beneath the city, in theke''s depths,y a mid-sized, low-grade third-rank spiritual vein, along with numerous branching first and second-rank veins.


    In this sprawling Immortal City, there were only about twenty third-rank spiritual vein residences open to the public.


    At the heart of the city stood Fenglin Mountain.


    The third-rank residences on Fenglin Mountain were primarily for the use of Core Formation cultivators orte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators attempting breakthroughs.


    Half a monthter, above Fenglin Mountain.


    Winds howled, clouds churned, and the spiritual energy of heaven and earth became agitated and lively, drawn by an invisible force within a radius of dozens of li.


    "Attempting Core Formation!"The phenomenon above Fenglin Mountain drew the attention of countless cultivators within the city.


    However, the Fenglin Mountain area was restricted, and ordinary cultivators could only watch from afar.


    A few dayster, a funnel-shaped cloud of spiritual energy appeared faintly in the sky.


    At Fenglin Mountain¡¯s residential area, a silver-haired woman with snowy robes and skin like jade, emanating an icy and dignified aura, stood on a viewing tform.


    Her cold gaze was fixed on a distant residence.


    "Fairy Hanyu, your merchant guild''s Fellow Daoist Gao Cheng has been consolidating his ninth-level Foundation Establishment for ten years. There should be no problems with this Core Formation."


    Deputy City Lord Gongyang, dressed in crane-patterned robes, flew over to the viewing tform, smiling as he approached Fairy Hanyu.


    "I¡¯ve calcted: this month is an auspicious time, ideal for breakthroughs. That¡¯s why I specifically adjusted the schedule to allow Fellow Daoist Gao Cheng these two months."


    "Thank you, Lord Gongyang."


    Fairy Hanyu¡¯s voice was cool, her demeanor restrained, as she maintained a certain distance from Deputy City Lord Gongyang, who stood beside her.


    Gongyang didn''t mind. Fairy Hanyu was the president of the Snow Fox Merchant Association, known as an ice beauty.


    Most male cultivators considered it a privilege to even have a conversation with her, seeing it as a sign of her eptance.


    Gongyang harbored a slight admiration for Fairy Hanyu, partly hoping to forge closer ties with the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    A few dayster.


    The spiritual energy cloud above the residence expanded to around half a li in diameter, trembling slightly before stabilizing.


    "Congrattions, Fairy Hanyu. Fellow Daoist Gao Cheng has sessfully formed a Fake Dan! Now, let¡¯s see if he can achieve a True Dan."


    Deputy City Lord Gongyang spoke with a smile.


    Fairy Hanyu replied with a soft hum, though a faint trace of worry flickered in her clear eyes.


    Gao Cheng was a rising star of the Snow Fox Merchant Association, and a younger member of Fairy Hanyu¡¯s own n.


    To aid his Core Formation, the n had prepared aplete set of resources for him.


    If he failed to form a True Dan, it would not meet Fairy Hanyu¡¯s expectations.


    The Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s True Dan Patriarch had already passed his prime, growing weaker by the year, with only a decade or so left of his lifespan. R?


    Due to the Patriarch''s declining state, the Snow Fox Merchant Association had struggled in recent years.


    Meanwhile, their rival, the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, had prospered, steadily eclipsing the Snow Fox Merchant Association in influence and business.


    The Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association¡¯s ¡°Huang Lang Immortal¡± was skilled at winning people over and had even recruited True Dan level experts.


    "That scoundrel suddenly severed all contact and vanished into thin air¡­ Truly hateful!"


    Hanyu Immortal clenched her teeth at the thought.


    She had originally sacrificed her pride to court an influential expert, the ¡°Xiang Immortal,¡± who was supported by a powerful background and possessed a third-rank True Dan demon.


    For a while, Xiang Immortal had kept his word, helping the Snow Fox Merchant Association navigate its difficulties.


    However, he had gone missing a few years ago, and when trouble arose, Hanyu Immortal was unable to reach him. Left with no other choice, she secretly sent a message to contact Xiang Jinglong of the Demonic Sect.


    When Xiang Jinglong received Hanyu Immortal¡¯s message questioning his loyalty, he was utterly bewildered.


    "When did I ever deceive anyone or break a promise?"


    Upon learning the truth, Xiang Jinglong was furious and even kidnapped several Snow Fox Merchant Association cultivators to uncover the facts.


    Back when he was framed and hunted by the me Departing Pce for the death of Alchemist Hua, Xiang Jinglong had grown to loathe taking the fall for others.


    Shortly thereafter, Huang Lang Immortal of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, who had dealings with the Demonic Sect, arranged a meeting with the real Xiang Immortal.


    "When did I kill the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association¡¯s Huxiao Immortal?"


    At that moment, Xiang Jinglong was momentarily stunned, then bristled with rage.


    Only then did Huang Lang Immortal realize that the ¡°Xiang Immortal¡± from back then was an impostor.


    He immediately encouraged Xiang Jinglong to target the Snow Fox Merchant Association, knowing that Hanyu Immortal had once been involved with the fake Xiang Immortal.


    ¡­


    "Now that the Demonic Sect can operate openly within the cultivation world, and with Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s instigation, Xiang Jinglong will inevitablye looking for trouble."


    The phrase ¡°troubled by both distant and near concerns¡± aptly described Hanyu Immortal''s current predicament.


    Previously, Xiang Jinglong had avoided outright hostilities with the Snow Fox Merchant Association, but now that the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect had been legitimized as a recognized sect by surrounding cultivation nations, the Snow Fox Merchant Association was in urgent need of a new True Dan expert.


    But the heavens seemed unkind.


    After several more days of observation, it became evident that the spiritual phenomenon above the sky, although expanding to nearly half a li, only shuddered asionally and showed no signs of further growth.


    Anyone with a discerning eye could tell that this Core Formation attempt would not result in a True Dan.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    At this moment, two streaks of light approached the residential area on Fenglin Mountain.


    One of the arrivals was a Fake Dan Immortal, immediately attracting the attention of Hanyu Immortal and Deputy City Lord Gongyang.


    "Hanyu Immortal, Lord Gongyang, you¡¯re both here?"


    Xia Hongyu approached with a warm smile, greeting the two Immortals.


    As an established Fake Dan cultivator, Xia Hongyu was familiar with Hanyu Immortal of the Snow Fox Merchant Association, having had dealings with her in the past.


    "Immortal Xia."


    Hanyu Immortal returned the greeting, her gaze settling on the calm, refined man in white standing next to Xia Hongyu.


    "This is my Xia Family¡¯s honored guest, Lan Chang''an," Xia Hongyu introduced briefly.


    Lan Chang''an bowed respectfully in greeting, though he couldn¡¯t help feeling somewhat anxious under Hanyu Immortal¡¯s gaze.


    "So, you¡¯re Fellow Daoist Lan."


    Hanyu Immortal nodded coolly, her demeanor as aloof as ever.


    She had heard of Lan Chang''an before. Since the Snow Fox Merchant Association had seized his slot for Core Formation, she¡¯d made sure to investigate his background.


    Had he possessed a powerful backing, Hanyu Immortal would have intervened to prevent Deputy City Lord Gongyang from making arbitrary decisions.


    After confirming his ties to the Xia Family of Qingsha Bay, Hanyu Immortal chose to allow it.


    Compared to the mighty Snow Fox Merchant Association, the Wufu Merchant Association to which Xia Hongyu belonged was rtively weak.


    With Xiang Jinglong potentially causing trouble at any time, the Snow Fox Merchant Association desperately needed a new True Dan sessor.


    Even a mere two-month advantage could be crucial for the merchant guild.


    ¡­


    Lan Chang''an was unfazed by Hanyu Immortal¡¯s coldness.


    He understood her to be a pragmatic and power-worshipping "ice beauty."


    Given his current status, even his outstanding looks and demeanor wouldn¡¯t make him worthy of her attention.


    For most Fake Dan cultivators, a figure like Hanyu Immortal, the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s president, was out of reach.


    At that moment, the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s cultivator was still in the process of Core Formation.


    Lan Chang''an refrained from entering the residence immediately.


    Instead, he waited with Patriarch Xia on the viewing tform, patiently biding his time until the Snow Fox Merchant Association cultivatorpleted his Core Formation.


    After all, If he entered too early and the cultivator from the Snow Fox Merchant Association fails to form their Core, or if the Core Formation doesn¡¯t turn out well, they might take out their anger on others.


    Two more days passed.


    The Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s Gao Cheng neared the end of his Core Formation process.


    Whoosh!


    The swirling spiritual cloud in the sky trembled slightly, and the gathered energy began to disperse like an ebbing tide.


    A wave of newly born Core energy radiated from within the residence.


    "Congrattions, Hanyu Immortal. Your merchant guild has gained a new Immortal."


    Both Deputy City Lord Gongyang and Xia Hongyu offered their congrattions.


    "It¡¯s merely a gray core; there¡¯s nothing to be proud of."


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s tone was indifferent, though her eyes revealed a trace of disappointment.


    Gao Cheng, blessed with high-grade spiritual roots and ample resources, had been a beacon of hope for the guild. Under ideal circumstances, he¡¯d had at least a fifty percent chance of achieving a True Dan.


    Unfortunately, he¡¯d only managed to form a Fake Dan.


    Forte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators with decent aptitude and resources, forming a Fake Dan wasn¡¯t exceptionally difficult.


    The real challengey in forming a True Dan.


    In certain cultivation regions, Fake Dans were not even regarded as Immortals who had formed a core, they were considered more as a "half-step Core Formation."


    The power difference between a True Dan and a Fake Dan was secondary, a True Dan could continue to cultivate with the hope of reaching greater heights.


    A Fake Dan, however, remained stalled at the early Core Formation stage, with their mana less than half as potent as that of a True Dan.


    As for the path of refining a Fake Dan into a True Dan, the Core Dissolution path?


    Unless one was a second generation of a Nascent Soul-level power with a big background, they couldn''t enjoy such treatment.


    ¡­


    "Lord Gongyang, may I now enter the residence to attempt my Core Formation?"


    Lan Chang''an asked.


    By now, Gao Cheng¡¯s Core Formation wasplete.


    He hadn¡¯t exited yet, as he was stabilizing his new realm.


    "Yes, you may," Deputy City Lord Gongyang replied, giving him a nod.


    With Gao Cheng¡¯s Core Formation concluded, he no longer needed vast amounts of spiritual energy for stabilization.


    Deputy City Lord Gongyang had no personal grudge against Lan Chang''an and saw no reason to obstruct him.


    Under the watchful eyes of Hanyu Immortal, Xia Hongyu, and the Deputy City Lord, Lan Chang''an produced a token, found an avable residence nearby, and entered, breaking the residence¡¯s seal as he did.


    "This person is over a hundred seventy years old; even forming a Fake Dan is unlikely," Hanyu Immortal thought to herself, feeling somewhat better in her heart.


    Even Xia Hongyu held little hope.


    Xia Hongyu stationed himself outside Lan Chang''an¡¯s residence, sitting cross-legged in a protective stance.


    For an elderly cultivator attempting Core Formation, it was wise to be prepared for potential mishaps.


    After just two days, the spiritual energy atop Fenglin Mountain once again surged like a tide, forming a funnel-shaped vortex above Lan Chang''an¡¯s residence.


    "So soon?"


    Both Deputy City Lord Gongyang and Hanyu Immortal were taken aback.


    Typically,te-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators would take time to meditate, clear their minds, and prepare themselves.


    For instance, Gao Cheng had spent half a month in preparation before officially initiating his Core Formation.


    This was normal, some cultivators even spent one or two months to achieve peak condition.


    "s, Fellow Daoist Lan seems too eager and inexperienced," Xia Hongyu sighed. At this point, it was toote to interrupt without disrupting his rhythm.


    Half a dayter.


    Above the residence, a funnel-shaped vortex appeared, radiating a verdant glow.


    "Hmm?"


    The Immortals present exchanged surprised nces.


    "This man has a solid foundation and calm mind; his Core Formation is proceeding smoothly."


    Hanyu Immortal and Deputy City Lord Gongyang shared a look, recognizing the quality of his progress.


    "Some who have mastered life-nurturing techniques do have such advantages. But the real test lies in whates next," Deputy City Lord Gongyang remarked, his expression returning to calm.


    Having managed the city''s spiritual vein sites, he had witnessed countless Core Formation attempts, observing every type of oue.


    Sometimes, a cultivator would disy promising signs initially, only to falterter and achieve a mediocre core.


    Two or three days passed.


    The vortex above the residence expanded, now approaching nearly a li in diameter.


    "Judging by the signs, he might actually seed in forming a Fake Dan?"


    Even Hanyu Immortal and n Leader Xia showed surprise.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s Core Formation process mirrored Gao Cheng¡¯s in stability, but his momentum continued to build.


    "It seems I misjudged him."


    Deputy City Lord Gongyang thought, now realizing that Lan Chang''an had a solid foundation, an exceptional state of mind, and was smoothly on the path to forming a Fake Dan.


    ...


    Inside the third-rank residence.


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, with a powerful surge of spiritual energy circting through his body, creating waves of intense mana.


    A greenish halo of energy enveloped him, emanating a spiritual pressureparable to that of a Fake Dan Immortal.


    Within the residence, the air asionally solidified, then shifted to strong, gusty winds that triggered ripples across the protective formations surrounding the room.


    Thankfully, each residence here was fortified by third-rank formation arrays.


    Even if a mishap urred during Core Formation, causing an explosion, the external world would remain unaffected.


    "Forming the core in this life is a vastly different experience than it was in my previous one."


    Lan Chang''an felt extraordinarily calm.


    Even without any external aids, like Crystal Condensation Pills or special Core Formation items, his progress in the initial stage of Core Formation remained steady and secure.


    "Now, the key step: transforming mana into crystallized essence!"


    At the center of hiske of mana, an invisible maic force began pulling the surrounding mana inward, continuouslypressing it toward the core.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes shone with intensity as he used his spiritual sense, slightly superior to that of a typical Fake Dan cultivator, to direct the liquid mana into a rotatingpression at the center of the manake.


    Tiny crystalline particles, like grains of sand, gradually appeared at the center of theke.


    The Core Formation process required the transformation of liquid mana into a solid core substance.


    This step demanded exceptional quality of mana, immense spiritual pressure from the environment, and a refined control of spiritual sense¡ªrequirements far beyond those of Foundation Establishment.


    Meanwhile¡­


    The turbulent spiritual energy from the outside world flowed continuously into Lan Chang''an¡¯s body, converted by his wood-aligned spiritual root and cultivation technique, and was directed toward his manake.


    The difference in spiritual pressure between the external world and his internal environment was immense.


    Factors like spiritual root quality, mana purity, and the use of Crystal Condensation Pills all affected the efficiency of this transformation under spiritual pressure.


    A stronger spiritual sense reduced the risk of mistakes and increased his chances of sess.


    The manake continued to copse inward, and more crystalline particles appeared at its center.


    These particles began to coalesce, rotating together and absorbing vast amounts of spiritual energy from the surroundings.


    Hmmm¡­


    After an unknown amount of time, a solid core began to take shape, rotating steadily within him.


    Vaguely, an inner core emerged, surrounded by liquid mana that was continuallypressed and integrated into it.


    The constant influx of spiritual energy from the heavens and earth furtherpressed and refined the emerging core, as if tempering an iron ball.


    Whew!


    Sensing that the emerging core had stabilized, Lan Chang''an exhaled a sigh of relief.


    This was the most dangerous step in Core Formation!


    Under the intense pressure from the surrounding spiritual energy and the continuous influx of heaven and earth energy, any slip-up during the copse andpression of the manake could result in deadly bacsh.


    Mana, spiritual sense, aptitude, spiritual pressure, and mental state¡ªall of these factors yed a role in determining sess or failure.


    Some cultivators, even after managing to form an emergent core, would see it copse due to ack of foundational strength or residual power.


    Others, though able to stabilize the emergent core, would end up forming a lower-quality "gray core."


    "It seems I underestimated my mana foundation in this life. Even before fully solidifying the core, the core¡¯s potency is approaching the level of a low-tier True Dan."


    Havingpleted over two-thirds of the Core Formation process, Lan Chang''an¡¯s face showed a trace of surprise.


    "It seems that collecting those Life Extension Pills over the years and enhancing my Evergreen mana was worth the effort."


    It was worth noting that his wood spiritual root was only low-grade, and he had used no external Core Formation aids, relying solely on his mana foundation to forcefully condense a core.


    ¡­


    Outside the residence.


    The cultivators observing the Core Formation widened their eyes in astonishment.


    Originally, Deputy City Lord Gongyang had intended to leave.


    Unexpectedly, Lan Chang''an¡¯s Core Formation phenomenon continued to grow steadily.


    Unnoticed by most, the vortex-like cloud of spiritual energy in the sky expanded from a radius of half a li to two li.


    "Such a phenomenon¡­ could it be that Cloudsmoke Immortal City is about to witness the birth of a True Dan Immortal?"


    The unusual activity drew the attention of several other cultivators nearby, including both Core Formation andte-stage Foundation Establishment practitioners.


    On Fenglin Mountain, more cultivators arrived to observe the Core Formation.


    Several of the city¡¯s factions, having received reports, sent representatives to await the oue.


    If he truly achieved a True Dan, the various factions in Cloudsmoke Immortal City would likelypete to forge alliances with him.


    "Could Lan Chang''an truly be forming a True Dan?"


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s icy expression flickered with hints of envy and bitterness.


    The cultivator whom her guild had ced high hopes on had only formed a Fake Dan.


    Meanwhile, Lan Chang''an, an older Foundation Establishment cultivator she had dismissed and from whom she had seized the auspicious time slot, was now disying signs of achieving a True Dan.


    The Core Formation phenomenon had at least reached the threshold for a True Dan, and it was progressing smoothly.


    In front of the residence, Patriarch Xia gaped in astonishment, pinching the flesh of his palm to confirm he wasn¡¯t dreaming.


    Suddenly.


    Two streaks of light approached from afar, one of which emitted the powerful aura of a True Dan cultivator.


    The cultivators observing the Core Formation instinctively made way.


    "Hmm! Isn¡¯t that ¡®Old Huang¡¯ from the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association?"


    Several cultivators recognized the neers.


    "Huang Lang Immortal? The Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association is quite far from here; what brings him to Cloudsmoke Immortal City?"


    Leading the neers was a middle-aged man with yellow-tinted skin, wearing a fur-lined coat and emanating a cunning, perceptive glint in his deep-set eyes.


    "Haha! Hanyu Immortal! I finally found you¡­"


    A rough voice sounded beside Huang Lang Immortal.


    It belonged to a robust man with tanned skin, dressed in a loose-fitting robe, exuding a fierce aura¡ªa Fake Dan cultivator.


    "Xiang Jinglong!"


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s delicate face paled, and she cursed inwardly.


    Now that the Demonic Sect had been legitimized, prominent demonic figures like Xiang Jinglong could openly confront her.


    And worse, he had been brought here by Huang Lang Immortal, clearly with hostile intentions.


    "Hanyu Immortal, you ndered my reputation and conspired with some mysterious individual to frame me. Today, you owe me an exnation."


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s smile held a sinister edge as he drew closer.


    "Is that Xiang Jinglong? The high-level enforcer from the Demonic Sect?"


    Nearby cultivators recoiled at the mention of his name, hurriedly stepping back.


    Deputy City Lord Gongyang¡¯s lips twitched. Mindful of the Demonic Sect¡¯s terrifying power and ruthless reputation, he dared not intervene.


    The Demonic Sect¡¯s leader, Liang Shaotian, was rumored to be the number one cultivator in the Jing Kingdom.


    "Xiang Immortal, this is all a misunderstanding! Allow me to exin¡­"


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s face turned ashen, and she took a step back.


    "Come with me to the Sacred Sect for questioning. The truth will be revealed once we get there."


    Xiang Jinglong hade with the intent to capture her, seeing her as the key to finding the person responsible for framing him.


    "Xiang Immortal! Your Sacred Sect has just gained recognition from the surrounding sects, and you¡¯re already trampling on Merchant Alliance rules?"


    Hanyu Immortal shouted, her voice sharp and resolute.


    Xiang Jinglong paused, recalling the orders from his sect leader after the establishment of the sect.


    In the future, when operating in the cultivation world, he was to exercise restraint and maintain a facade ofwfulness.


    The habits and mindsets of bandits and rogue cultivators would need some adjustment.


    As he hesitated, Hanyu Immortal transformed into a streak of icy light, slipping into the residence where Gao Cheng was stabilizing his breakthrough.


    Once inside, thebined strength of the two Fake Dan cultivators, along with the protective formations, would provide a solid defense.


    "Hmph! Let¡¯s see how long you can hide."


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s face darkened.


    Attacking a residence within an immortal city? He wasn¡¯t reckless enough to go that far.


    "No rush, Xiang Immortal. The monk may escape, but the temple cannot," Huang Lang Immortal chuckled.


    "Hmm? Who¡¯s undergoing Core Formation here?"


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s gaze shifted to the Core Formation phenomenon above, a flicker of envy in his eyes.


    "That would be Lan Chang''an, a guest cultivator of the Xia Family from the Wufu Merchant Association. Coincidentally, he hails from the Liang Kingdom, like yourself," Deputy City Lord Gongyang exined with a fawning smile.


    "Lan Chang''an? What! Did you say Lan Chang''an?"


    Xiang Jinglong was taken aback, his expression turning incredulous.


    Lan Chang''an was someone he knew well.


    Years ago, they¡¯d made a deal outside the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    Later, when Xiang Jinglong was framed for the death of the Alchemist Hua, he had investigated and gathered information on Lan Chang''an.


    During the Huanglong Mountain Hunt, Xiang Jinglong had even gone to Wuqi Mountain to freeload while recovering from injuries.


    ¡­


    "Do you know the cultivator forming a core?" Huang Lang Immortal asked with interest, noticing Xiang Jinglong¡¯s reaction.


    "Yes, we crossed paths back in Liang Kingdom."


    After confirming that the person forming the core was indeed Lan Chang''an, Xiang Jinglong felt a mix of shock, jealousy, and resentment.


    Years ago, this ¡°tortoise-paced¡± Talisman Master had barely entered Foundation Establishment in his old age, yet now he seemed on the verge of achieving a True Dan?


    How was that possible?!


    This man had avoided disputes, cultivated quietly, and progressed steadily without obstacles.


    Meanwhile, Xiang Jinglong had struggled through hardships, seizing resources wherever he could, only to attain a Fake Dan.


    And over thest century, he¡¯d faced endless misfortunes, usations, and exiles.


    Even fleeing from Liang hadn¡¯t changed his bad luck.


    Xiang Jinglong couldn¡¯t help but wonder: had this man stolen the luck that should have been his?


    Ever since their meeting at the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, Xiang Jinglong had been dogged by misfortune, while Lan Chang''an had advanced steadily without setbacks.


    "Huang Lang Immortal, are you certain the ¡®Xiang Immortal¡¯ you encountered was only at the Fake Dan level?"


    Xiang Jinglong asked, as a thought crossed his mind.


    "Yes, he was indeed a Fake Dan cultivator, though his strength far surpassed his peers. Otherwise, Huxiao Immortal wouldn¡¯t have been killed without resistance."


    Huang Lang Immortal, recalling the death of Huxiao Immortal, still held resentment toward that mysterious individual.


    "I see. Understood."


    Xiang Jinglong dismissed his suspicion as paranoia.


    ording to the description, the "Xiang Immortal" responsible for the killings had strength equal to his own.


    Meanwhile, Lan Chang''an, in thete Foundation Establishment stage and attempting Core Formation, was simply progressing as expected.


    Whether in Liang Kingdom or Jing Kingdom, Lan Chang''an was known as a cautious man, reluctant to fight or take risks.


    Xiang Jinglong understands the cautious nature of the Turtle Talisman Master better than other cultivators in Jing Kingdom.


    If he were truly hiding his strength that deeply, with such abilities, then back when I was seriously injured and freeloading at Wuqi Mountain, he could have taken me down but chose not to.


    As for seizing someone else¡¯s luck, Xiang Jinglong knows it was nothing more than his own wishful thinking.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t possess the kind of fortune he envied. He didn¡¯t deserve it!


    Xiang Jinglong had already met a true "favored of fortune"¡ªhis own sect leader.


    ¡­


    Half a dayter.


    The swirling cloud of spiritual energy above stabilized, then dissipated gradually as the surrounding spiritual energy flowed back to its natural state.


    Above Lan Chang''an¡¯s residence, rays of radiant light shone, apanied by faint ethereal music.


    Whoosh!


    A powerful andplete aura of core energy emerged from within the third-rank residence.


    The intangible spiritual pressure caused the surrounding Foundation Establishment cultivators and Fake Dan cultivators to feel a sense of suppression.


    "This core energy is solid andplete¡ªhe has indeed achieved a True Dan!"


    Huang Lang Immortal confirmed with a contemtive expression.


    The gathered cultivators erupted in exmations of astonishment and admiration.


    ¡­


    Inside the residence.


    With eyes closed, Lan Chang''an circted the deep pale green core energy within his body, feeling the transformative leap in his spiritual sense, mana, and the very essence of life.


    "Whew!"


    "Thankfully, it¡¯s only a low-tier True Dan¡­"

 Chapter 259: The Evergreen Immortal

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Forming a low-tier True Dan was within Lan Chang''an¡¯s eptable range, and it didn¡¯t disrupt his future ns. The higher the quality of the core, the denser and sturdier it would be, which also meant greater risks and difficulties for eventual dissolution.


    Destroying a Fake Dan would be rtively easy for Lan Chang''an. Dissolving a low-tier True Dan, however, would require serious preparation.


    If it was an upper-tier True Dan? Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have the confidence to handle that and would avoid dissolving it to prevent unnecessary risk.


    "The Evergreen Technique grants an additional three hundred years of lifespan at the Core Formation Realm, prolonging lifespan by fifty percent!"


    As Lan Chang''an stabilized his realm, he could feel the changes within his body.


    Firstly, his lifespan had now surpassed 1,000 years! His total lifespan had reached an astonishing 1,047 years.


    For a typical Core Formation cultivator, the theoretical maximum lifespan was 600 years.


    Thanks to the Evergreen Technique, Lan Chang''an gained an additional 300 years, bringing his baseline lifespan to 900 years.The extra 147 years were a result of the various Life Extension Pills he had taken in the past.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, Lan Chang''an¡¯s base lifespan had been 360 years. Adding the 147 years from Life Extension Pills brought him to 507 years prior to his Core Formation.


    Now that his lifespan exceeded a thousand years, Lan Chang''an felt brimming with vitality, youthfulness and vigor, with a body full of life force.


    Theoretically, his physical state was no different from that of a seventeen or eighteen-year-old youth.


    "My spiritual sense rivals that of a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator."


    "My mana is at the level of an average early-stage True Dan cultivator. After all, the quality of the core directly impacts the strength of mana."


    The quality of Lan Chang''an¡¯s True Dan in this life was only slightly better than that of Fu Xuemei from back then.


    For any cultivator capable of achieving True Dan, their cultivation technique was often extraordinary and came with significant backing. In major sects, such cultivators were typically direct disciples.


    Seven dayster.


    Lan Chang''an had stabilized his cultivation and immediately stopped cultivating.


    The more he cultivated, the more solid and sturdy his True Dan would be, increasing the difficulty of dissolution in the future.


    The average rate of advancement for a True Dan cultivator was one minor stage every 60 years, not including bottlenecks and breakthroughs.


    A few years of cultivation wouldn¡¯t significantly impact Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength.


    With a lifespan exceeding a thousand years, Lan Chang''an remained calm and unhurried, unconcerned about minor dys.


    "This Core Formation process was far smoother than in my previous life. No sudden twists and turns, no interruptions from others..."


    Lan Chang''an smiled as he ended his seclusion.


    Known as a benevolent person with a good reputation, he had few enemies in the cultivation world.


    Activating the Evergreen Technique, he restrained the radiant, jade-like aura around him.


    He stood up, took out his token, and disabled the restrictions.


    Then, he stepped out of the third-rank residence.


    ¡­


    "Greetings to Immortal Lan!"


    "Congrattions to Immortal Lan on achieving a True Dan!"


    Outside Lan Chang''an¡¯s closed-door residence, dozens of cultivators had gathered, offering their congrattions.


    The weakest among them were atte-stage Foundation Establishment, with over a dozen Fake Dan cultivators and two or three True Dan cultivators present. ?


    Ordinary cultivators couldn¡¯t ess Fenglin Mountain¡¯s residential area.


    Among those present to congratte him, Lan Chang''an saw many familiar faces.


    Huang Lang Immortal, Xiang Jinglong, Hanyu Immortal, Xia Hongyu, and Deputy City Lord Gongyang were all there¡­


    Hearing himself addressed as "Immortal Lan," Lan Chang''an felt a wave of nostalgia.


    From this moment on, he was a high-ranking cultivator, stepping into an entirely new level.


    "Immortal Lan, at the age of 171, you¡¯ve managed to achieve a True Dan, breaking the record for the oldest Core Formation in Cloudsmoke Immortal City¡¯s history!"


    "In fact, within the Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world over thest thousand years, you are only the third person to achieve Core Formation after the age of 170."


    Deputy City Lord Gongyang, with his crane-embroidered robe and flowered beard, smiled warmly, his tone filled with admiration, as if he were personally honored by Lan Chang''an¡¯s achievement.


    Not only was Lan Chang''an a True Dan cultivator with a noble status, but his sess at such an advanced age gave him an inspiring reputation.


    "The third in a thousand years?"


    Lan Chang''an felt relieved. This time, he hadn¡¯t broken any national cultivation records.


    It was a good thing he hadn¡¯t waited until he reached the peak of Foundation Establishment. If he¡¯d dyed for another ten years, he might have broken another record.


    The age at which he achieved Core Formation was a little more low-keypared to his Foundation Establishment.


    At the high cultivator level, everyone had their own opportunities and secrets.


    At this level, he no longer feared the revtion of his fortunes or secrets, nor did he worry much about being spied upon.


    "I was fortunate to have the help of Deputy City Lord Gongyang, who specially selected an ''auspicious day'' for me," Lan Chang''an said with a slight smile.


    Deputy City Lord Gongyang¡¯s smile stiffened, and he quickly forced augh, then sent an apologetic message to Lan Chang''an through voice transmission.


    "Hmph!"


    A cold snort sounded from nearby.


    It came from a tall, robust young man who had just formed a Fake Dan¡ªGao Cheng, the Snow Fox Merchant Association cultivator who had undergone Core Formation before Lan Chang''an.


    Originally, this time slot had been allocated to Gao Cheng by the Deputy City Lord.


    Although Lan Chang''an¡¯s words were meant as a light-hearted remark, in the cultivation world, luck and timing were often seen as crucial factors. With Gao Cheng¡¯s potential, he¡¯d had a fifty-percent chance of forming a True Dan. Perhaps with different timing, the oue might have been different.


    Hanyu Immortal, standing beside Gao Cheng, also looked displeased, her gaze subtly drifting over Deputy City Lord Gongyang.


    For a moment, Deputy City Lord Gongyang found himself caught in an ufortable position, his heart filled with regret and bitterness.


    "Congrattions, Immortal Lan! I am Huang Lang, the president of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association. I¡¯ve long heard of you from Xiang Immortal, who speaks of you with the highest regard. I have long admired you," Huang Lang Immortal said with a bright smile, his tone amiable as he tried to forge a bond with Lan Chang''an.


    "Oh? Xiang Immortal has such a high opinion of me?" Lan Chang''an replied with a smile, ncing at Xiang Jinglong, who was standing at the back of the crowd, looking ufortable and avoiding his gaze.


    Xiang Jinglong wanted to curse: He had no rtionship with Lan Chang''an! He¡¯d never praised him, and they¡¯d even had minor conflicts in the past.


    Initially, he¡¯d hoped to keep a low profile and avoid Lan Chang''an, deliberately staying at the edge of the crowd.


    Years ago, as a Fake Dan cultivator, he had looked down on Lan Chang''an during his visit to Wuqi Mountain, where he¡¯d acted with impunity.


    But now, the junior Foundation Establishment cultivator he had once dismissed had achieved True Dan.


    Xiang Jinglong felt a pang of jealousy and resentment, unwilling to bow his head before the former Turtle Talisman Master he had once scorned.


    "Immortal Lan, we haven¡¯t met since our parting in the Liang Kingdom. It¡¯s been many years," Xiang Jinglong managed a strained smile as he reluctantly sped his hands in greeting.


    Lan Chang''an returned the salute, harboring no ill will toward him.


    After all, Xiang Jinglong¡¯s assumed identity had shielded Lan Chang''an from many troubles in the past.


    Years ago, without the title of "Xiang Immortal," he wouldn¡¯t have been able to navigate the Snow Fox Merchant Association so smoothly and obtain so many benefits.


    After the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s Core Formation and the death of Huxiao Immortal, the "Xiang Immortal" identity had kept the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association at bay.


    ¡­


    Xiang Jinglong¡¯s attention wasn¡¯t really on Lan Chang''an.


    His smile faded as he fixed a cold gaze on Hanyu Immortal.


    Due to the significant Core Formation phenomenon caused by Lan Chang''an, many cultivators were present, making it difficult for Xiang Jinglong to openly threaten Hanyu Immortal.


    Hanyu Immortal, conversing amicably with Xia Hongyu, took the opportunity to strengthen her connections.


    Realizing she had missed out on a great opportunity with Lan Chang''an, she now shifted her focus to the Xia Family leader.


    Xia Hongyu felt somewhat ttered.


    During the few days Lan Chang''an had spent stabilizing his breakthrough, Hanyu Immortal had humbled herself to build a rapport with Xia Hongyu.


    She had even promised favorable terms for the Wufu Merchant Association in future partnerships with the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    "Patriarch Xia."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t overlook Xia Hongyu, approaching him with a warm greeting.


    "Congrattions to Immortal Lan for stepping into the Core Formation Realm. It¡¯s an honor for the Xia Family of Qingsha Bay," Xia Hongyu replied with a respectful salute, his face glowing with genuine joy.


    He was one of the few who sincerely celebrated Lan Chang''an¡¯s achievement.


    Though Qingsha Bay might not retain Lan Chang''an for long, the rtionship they¡¯d built over the past two or three decades remained intact.


    "I am Gao Lingyu, president of the Snow Fox Merchant Association, here to congratte Immortal Lan on achieving True Dan."


    Hanyu Immortal, with her silver hair and snowy robes, offered a polite smile, bowing gracefully in greeting.


    Lan Chang''an secretly thought that when they¡¯d met while he was still a Foundation Establishment cultivator, she hadn¡¯t spared him a second nce.


    "Hanyu Immortal, there¡¯s no need for such formality! I have long heard of your renowned beauty," Lan Chang''an replied politely, exchanging a few words with Hanyu Immortal.


    He noticed Xiang Jinglong¡¯s hostile gaze directed at Hanyu Immortal, standing alongside Huang Lang Immortal, clearly with ill intentions.


    Although his past rtionship with her had faded, Lan Chang''an still owed the Snow Fox Merchant Association a favor.


    Moreover, the current trouble Hanyu Immortal faced wasn¡¯t unrted to him.


    He wasn¡¯t worried about his identity being exposed, as it was Hanyu Immortal who had approached him, making him appear as the passive party.


    As a man of goodwill, it would be reasonable for him not to reject a high-status beauty¡¯s kind invitation.


    "So, she managed to find her chance¡­"


    Seeing this interaction, Xiang Jinglong¡¯s face darkened, but he was helpless.


    Even though his body cultivation had reached quasi-third-rank, making him formidable among Fake Dan cultivators, he was no match for a True Dan Immortal.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t just any True Dan cultivator; he was also a talented talisman master.


    Before achieving Core Formation, he was already a quasi-third-rank talisman master, and now he could very likely be a full third-rank talisman master!


    Such a person was not someone even the Demonic Sect or the three major sects of Jing Kingdom would want to offend lightly¡ªthey would prefer to build a good rtionship.


    Huang Lang Immortal squinted, observing the friendly interaction between Lan Chang''an and Hanyu Immortal.


    Whether intentional or not, Lan Chang''an had effectively shielded Hanyu Immortal today.


    "Immortal Lan, Immortal Xia, would you be interested in visiting the Snow Fox Merchant Association for a discussion?"


    Hanyu Immortal¡¯s eyes sparkled as she gazed at the tall, elegant man in white.


    He possessed a refined air, as though he¡¯d been polished by time, leaving a profound impression on her.


    After reaching Core Formation, Lan Chang''an exuded a majestic aura that stirred her long-frozen heart.


    This was the ideal partner she had dreamed of.


    Inparison, her previous "partner," an old man in a straw raincoat with little appeal beyond a third-rank pet and a strong body, now seemed repulsive.


    With his wrinkled face, even conversing with him about the Dao was nauseating¡­


    If Lan Chang''an could take the old man¡¯s ce, it would be a perfect solution for both her personal desires and the interests of the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    "Thank you for your kind invitation, Fairy, but I have some matters to attend to after just reaching Core Formation. Perhaps another time," Lan Chang''an replied, declining tactfully.


    This was his first meeting with Hanyu Immortal in Cloudsmoke Immortal City in his current identity.


    If he epted her invitation too easily, it might raise suspicions and would not be in line with his gentlemanly image.


    "Then let¡¯s arrange another time," Hanyu Immortal replied with a warm smile, she was already content to have drawn closer today.


    She sensed that Lan Chang''an did not seem averse to her.


    Their brief conversation felt natural, as though they were old friends who had known each other for years.


    ¡­


    "Immortal Lan, have you chosen a Dao title now that you¡¯re a True Dan cultivator?"


    Patriarch Xia, Lan Chang''an, and Hanyu Immortal conversed as they flew away from Fenglin Mountain, with Patriarch Xia bringing up the topic of a Dao title.


    After forming a core, most cultivators would adopt a Dao title, either to reflect their own style or to embody their aspirations.


    For example, after Zhang Tieshan formed his core, he became known as "Immortal Tiangfeng."


    Over time, people might forget his original name, but they would remember his Dao title, calling him Zhang Tianfeng instead.


    In the cultivation world, a Dao title could even rece one¡¯s original name.


    "I aspire for the Dao of longevity and evesting presence in the cultivation world, so I decided long ago that if I seeded in forming a core, my title would be ''Evergreen''."


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t hold back, smiling as he announced his title.


    A Dao title was more than a goal; it could potentially influence a cultivator¡¯s fate.


    A title that resonated with the cultivator¡¯s identity could strengthen their destiny over time.


    Back then, Li Ergou who had chosen the Dao title "Changqing(Evergreen)", had a series of unfortunate events afterward.


    In the mortal world, parents would sometimes give their children humble names to toughen their lives.


    For an ordinary person, choosing a grandiose name like Long Aotian (Proud Dragon of Heaven) might result in ridicule and skew how others perceived them.


    In the cultivation world, where supernatural forces influenced destiny, the impact was even greater.


    "Evergreen?"


    "Evergreen Immortal!"


    Patriarch Xia and Hanyu Immortal repeated it softly, their first impression being that it was amon, even generic Dao title.


    The vast cultivation world had many cultivators with this title, as all sought to remain evergreen on the Dao path.


    "Evergreen¡­ It¡¯s a good title, but¡­" Patriarch Xia hesitated.


    In recent centuries, both Jing Kingdom and Liang Kingdom had each seen an "Evergreen Immortal." One of them had even achieved True Dan.


    But both cultivators had met early deaths, surviving only two hundred years or so.


    As a result, in thest two centuries, no cultivator dared use that title, unwilling to invite misfortune.


    In truth, Lan Chang''an was aware of this history and had confirmed the title was currently unused before he chose it.


    Whilemon, "Evergreen" suited his approach and ideals in this life.


    Longevity required steady cultivation and a cautious mindset to be an enduring presence in the cultivation world, the "evergreen tree" among cultivators.


    When a cultivator became the longest-living person in a cultivation region, even if not the strongest, they would be regarded as a mysterious, ancient figure, worthy of respect.


    As Lan Chang''an was about to speak, he suddenly sensed a powerful True Dan aura entering Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    ¡­


    Amidst the clouds.


    A massive iron fan magical treasure bore a man in splendid robes, a True Dan cultivator with a sinister, elegant appearance.


    Whoosh!


    The iron fan magical treasure roared with a fiery wind, rushing directly toward Fenglin Mountain and the third-rank residences.


    "Lan Chang''an! You signed a seven-year third-rank spirit contract, and yet you carelessly formed a core here, derailing my ns!"


    Xie Wuji was seething with rage, his fury boiling over as he extended his spiritual sense to locate Lan Chang''an.


    Six years ago.


    He had used both persuasion and intimidation to make Lan Chang''an sign a third-rank spirit contract, promising that within seven years, he would convince Xia Wenyue to reconcile with the Xie Family in Chen Kingdom.


    He had even pre-paid a Core Formation item, the "Pure Essence Water," as a show of good faith.


    Now, with just one year left in their agreement, he hade personally to check on Lan Chang''an¡¯s progress.


    To his dismay, he found that Lan Chang''an had only made a cursory attempt, barely traveling to the Jing Kingdom¡¯s border without taking any actual action at all.


    Furious, Xie Wuji had rushed to Qingsha Bay to confront and threaten Lan Chang''an.


    With a third-rank spirit contract in hand, the Xia Family¡¯s protection in Qingsha Bay was meaningless¡ªLan Chang''an wasn¡¯t a member of the Xia Family!


    To his shock and fury, he learned that Lan Chang''an had instead gone off to achieve Core Formation.


    "Using my Core Formation treasure to form your own core? Your sess is minor! If you¡¯d failed and died, it would have ruined the Xie Family¡¯s grand ns!"


    Xie Wuji had little faith in Lan Chang''an¡¯s ability to form a core at his advanced age, believing it would likely result in his death.


    Core Formation items only enhanced the quality of the core¡ªthey did not increase the sess rate or reduce the risks of Core Formation.


    If Lan Chang''an died, there would be no way to ount for the loss to Xia Wenyue.


    "Xie Wuji! From the Xie Family of Chen Kingdom?"


    "Why has hee here?"


    Several cultivators in Cloudsmoke Immortal City recognized Xie Wuji¡¯s identity and retreated, wary and cautious.


    The Xie Family of the Chen Kingdom was a formidable, almost omnipotent family, with their ancestor being a Nascent Soul True Monarch of the Heavenly Net Sect.


    ¡­


    "Lan Chang''an, I¡¯ve found you!"


    With his True Dan-level spiritual sense, Xie Wuji quickly located the figures of Patriarch Xia and Lan Chang''an, rapidly closing in.


    Lan Chang''an also noticed Xie Wuji, and their gazes met.


    Hmm?


    Xie Wuji, mid-flight, suddenly halted, his expression one of shock.


    He could sense the faint aura of True Dan energy surrounding Lan Chang''an, cing him at an equivalent level.


    "A True Dan?"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s pupils shrank as he looked at the serene, poised man in white floating with his hands behind his back.


    "You¡­ you actually formed a True Dan?"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s rage was instantly reced by utter disbelief, his expression one of existential doubt.


    Was this a joke?


    A Foundation Establishment cultivator nearing 180 years old had actually managed to achieve True Dan?


    Seeing Xie Wuji¡¯s stunned and incredulous expression, Lan Chang''an thought, Perfect timing!


    With a calm smile, he took a step forward, sped his hands from afar, and bowed respectfully.


    "I must thank Immortal Xie for the Core Formation item."


    "Without it, regardless of my firm foundation and strong state of mind, I wouldn¡¯t have achieved True Dan!"


    At these words, the cultivators observing from nearby gasped, a wave of understanding sweeping through them.


    So that¡¯s why Lan Chang''an seeded in forming a True Dan!


    It turned out he had the support of the powerful Xie Family.


    Several Foundation Establishment cultivators watching from afar couldn¡¯t hide their disappointment.


    They had admired Lan Chang''an as a grassroots cultivator without a powerful background, a figure of inspiration. But this revtion dampened their enthusiasm, leaving them both disheartened and resigned, though it also somehow felt inevitable.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 260: The Core Formation Celebration

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    "Thanks to the Core Formation item gifted by Xie Immortal..."


    In midair, Lan Chang''an bowed deeply, exuding humility and sincerity.


    Hearing this, Xie Wuji''s chest heaved with frustration, and he nearly spat out a mouthful of blood.


    Lan Chang''an had formed a True Dan, and it turned out to be thanks to him?


    Xie Wuji''s face darkened slightly, and in the blink of an eye, he pieced together the sequence of events.


    "Lan Chang''an must have had the opportunity to form a Core¡ªperhaps something like a Crystal Condensation Pill. Though he¡¯s older, his cultivation is steady, and his life-nurturing technique has kept his body in excellent condition. With his solid foundation, he already had a fair chance of forming a Fake Dan, butcked the final push..."


    "And the Core Formation item I provided was precisely the boost he needed to go from a Fake Dan to a True Dan!"


    "I¡¯ve helped this ingrate ascend to glory! Infuriating!"As this realization struck him, Xie Wuji¡¯s anger surged, nearly causing internal injuries.


    Yet under the watchful eyes of the crowd, with Lan Chang''an being so courteous and humble, he could not lose his temper.


    Even more crucially, Lan Chang''an was now a True Dan cultivator, meaning they stood on equal footing in terms of cultivation realm.


    Suppressing his resentment, Xie Wuji slowed his flight and approached Lan Chang''an, feigning aposed and indifferent demeanor.


    "Not bad, Lan Chang''an!"


    "You¡¯ve truly lived up to the Xie Family''s investment in you."


    At this point, Xie Wuji could only go along with it, reluctant as he was to admit it.


    Indeed, he had given Lan Chang''an the Core Formation item.


    Per the spiritual contract they had signed: the Xie Family would provide Lan Chang''an with Core Formation resources, and in return, he would persuade Xia Wenyue within seven years.


    Hearing Xie Wuji¡¯s words, Patriarch Xia¡¯s expression subtly changed.


    No matter how strong Lan Chang''an¡¯s foundation or talent was, without external aid or a fortuitous opportunity, forming a True Dan would have been nearly impossible.


    Lan Chang''an inwardly noted how quickly Xie Wuji had adapted, clearly intending to sow discord between him and the Xia Family.


    "Xie Immortal, what brings you here in such haste?" Lan Chang''an asked with a faint smile.


    What brings me here? Do you really not know?!


    Xie Wuji maintained a neutral expression and said coldly, "Upon hearing that you were forming your core, I grew concerned and came to offer my protection. After all, forming a Core at your advanced age is quite risky."


    "Xie Immortal, your concern is truly appreciated."


    Lan Chang''an replied seriously, "Though, in truth, such an item was all that was needed..."


    Xie Wuji¡¯s face froze, falling into a moment of silence.


    "Lan Chang''an! Do not mention that item again!"


    Xie Wuji transmitted his voice privately to Lan Chang''an, his dissatisfaction evident.


    "Later, meet me outside Cloudsmoke Immortal City. You must give me an exnation regarding the terms of our third-rank spiritual contract!"


    After delivering his message via voice transmission, Xie Wuji exchanged a few polite words before parting ways with Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an and hispanions left the Fenglin Mountain cave residences.


    After bidding farewell to Hanyu Immortal, Lan Chang''an and Patriarch Xia flew toward the outer city.


    "Immortal Lan, about your dealings with the Xie Family..." Patriarch Xia hesitated for a long moment before finally broaching the subject.


    "Patriarch Xia, the spiritual contract I signed with the Xie Family was merely a temporary measure. Now that I¡¯ve formed a True Dan, there¡¯s no need to be overly concerned," Lan Chang''an replied calmly. ???


    Xia Hongyu nodded. Lan Chang''an had mentioned the contract to him before when he was still at the ninth level of the Foundation Establishment stage, this seemed to be the reason why he was so eager to break through to the Core Formation Realm.


    "But you epted the Core Formation item. If you don¡¯t fulfill the Xie Family¡¯s demands, wouldn¡¯t that be considered deceit..." Patriarch Xia trailed off, a cold sweat forming as he considered the potential consequences.


    The Xie Family of Chen Kingdom was a powerful n with a Nascent Soul ancestor. They had turned the Heavenly Net Sect into a family sect and dominated the Chen Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    Lan Chang''an seemed unfazed. "It was Xie Immortal who voluntarily gifted me the spiritual item. How could that be considered deceit?"


    Patriarch Xia opened his mouth, now viewing Lan Chang''an in apletely new light.


    "Besides, back then, if I hadn¡¯t agreed, Xie Immortal might have threatened my life," Lan Chang''an added matter-of-factly.


    "That¡¯s true." Patriarch Xia nodded, somewhat embarrassed. "Immortal Lan, your upright character is truly admirable. I was overthinking it..."


    ...


    Outside Cloudsmoke Immortal City, dozens of li away on a hilltop.


    The figures of Xie Wuji and Lan Chang''an appeared one after another.


    "Lan Chang''an, you must exin yourself today! ording to our agreement, you were to persuade Xia Wenyue within seven years. Have you even visited the Proud Moon Pce?" Xie Wuji demanded, his expression dark and grim.


    "There¡¯s still time left in the seven years, isn¡¯t there?"


    The spiritual contract between Lan Chang''an and Xie Wuji stipted that Lan Chang''an mustplete his task within seven years. Failing to do so would vite the spirit contract, and suffer a bacsh.


    Even if there was only one day left, it wouldn¡¯t count as a breach.


    At the time, Xie Wuji had wanted to set harsher terms for the contract, but Lan Chang''an had firmly resisted, even willing to risk death rather than agree to a shorter timeframe.


    After all, Lan Chang''an was someone Xia Wenyue greatly respected as a teacher; pushing him too hard would have backfired.


    "For the past six years, you¡¯ve been cking off. Do you really think you can convince Wenyue in the final year?" Xie Wuji sneered coldly.


    "No, I don¡¯t think I can," Lan Chang''an replied honestly.


    "You... are deliberately ying games with me?!"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s fury surged, and the oppressive aura of a True Dan cultivator faintly emerged.


    But he quickly realized that Lan Chang''an, now also a True Dan cultivator, couldn¡¯t be easily pressured. Even if Xie Wuji was a few points stronger, it would be difficult to coerce Lan Chang''an.


    "It¡¯s not that I¡¯m unwilling to try," Lan Chang''an exined with a smile. "But for the past few years, I¡¯ve been under external threats and had to focus all my efforts on forming my Core to ensure my safety."


    "Now that you¡¯ve formed a True Dan, do you still intend to abide by the spiritual contract?" Xie Wuji asked coldly.


    "With only a year left, I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t have the capacity to fulfill the task. I ask that Xie Immortal extend the timeframe."


    "And how much longer do you need?"


    "At least ten years," Lan Chang''an said lightly.


    "Lan Chang''an! Are you mocking me?!"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s face turned icy, and his voice carried a murderous edge.


    He genuinely wanted to kill Lan Chang''an.


    But reality wouldn¡¯t allow it.


    Killing a True Dan cultivator was no trivial matter, and Lan Chang''an¡¯s death would provoke Xia Wenyue into severing all ties with the Xie Family.


    Xia Wenyue, with her innate Dao physique, was bound to attract the attention of a Nascent Soul-level sect, and her potential was too valuable to lose.


    "...I Forgot to mention, Fellow Daoist Xie," Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile. "I¡¯ve made arrangements. If I die unexpectedly or go missing, a ¡®final message¡¯ will reach Proud Moon Pce, informing Wenyue that it was the Xie Family¡¯s doing."


    Xie Wuji¡¯s face turned ashen. Against Lan Chang''an, now a True Dan cultivator and a shrewd schemer, he truly had no recourse.


    "Fine. I¡¯ll grant you five more years¡ªno more!"


    After some haggling, the two came to an agreement.


    The original spiritual contract was nullified, and Xie Wuji brought out a new third-rank spiritual contract, granting Lan Chang''an a five-year extension.


    "Immortal Lan, as long as youplete the task, my Xie Family will reward you with cultivation resources for after Core Formation, such as the mid-stage breakthrough pill."


    Xie Wuji¡¯s tone softened, offering enticing benefits.


    He understood that mere threats wouldn¡¯t suffice; lucrative promises were necessary to secure Lan Chang''an¡¯s cooperation.


    It was obvious that Lan Chang''an was stalling and being perfunctory.


    A third-rank spiritual contract didn¡¯t bind Lan Chang''an as much as imagined. Generally, even a True Dan cultivator couldn¡¯t break such a contract. However, if Lan Chang''an were willing to "sell himself," there were Nascent Soul-level powers nearby that would undoubtedly step in to help him break the contract, unafraid of offending the Xie Family of Chen Kingdom.


    A True Dan cultivator who was also a third-rank talisman master would be appealing to any major sect.


    What Xie Wuji didn¡¯t know, however, was that Lan Chang''an carried many secrets and didn¡¯t dare easily "sell himself" by joining a Nascent Soul-level faction. As for ordinary sects, whether they had the ability to break the contract was secondary; most wouldn¡¯t dare risk offending the Xie Family.


    "A mid-stage Core Formation breakthrough pill? Immortal Xie, you¡¯d better keep your word!"


    Lan Chang''an''s eyes lit up.


    Xie Wuji inwardly smirked. Given Lan Chang''an''s talent and age, it was already a stroke of luck for him to have formed his True Dan at all. But when it came to advancing within the Core Formation stage, each small breakthrough was extremely difficult.


    The quality of one¡¯s Core affected breakthroughs to higher stages. If it was an upper-tier True Dan or an Immortal Golden Dan, breaking through the minor realms would be rtively easier. However, for a low-tier True Dan¡ªespecially one like Lan Chang''an¡¯s, which had barely been formed¡ªthe difficulty of advancing to mid-Core Formation was immense.


    Without a great opportunity, it was possible for him to be trapped at early Core Formation for life.


    Thus, Xie Wuji was confident that Lan Chang''an would find it hard to resist resources critical to progressing within the Core Formation Realm. Even if Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t care now, after being stuck at early Core Formation for a hundred years, he would regret it immensely.


    "Immortal Lan, take care of yourself!" Xie Wuji advised before leaving.


    "Actually, my n doesn¡¯t necessarily need to reim Wenyue to personally cultivate her. As long as she¡¯s willing to return to the n and recognize her family, that would suffice."


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an immediately understood.


    The Proud Moon Pce was aggressive, but the Xie Family of Chen Kingdom knew it was unrealistic to fully take Xia Wenyue back under their control. Instead, they were willing topromise and settle for partial ownership¡ªsecuring half of Wenyue¡¯s ¡®ownership¡¯ instead.


    ...


    Momentster, Lan Chang''an returned and met with Xia Hongyu outside the immortal city.


    "Immortal Lan, did Xie Wuji trouble you?"


    Seeing Lan Chang''an return unharmed, Patriarch Xia breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Now that I¡¯ve achieved a True Dan, Xie Wuji was forced to make concessions," Lan Chang''an replied calmly.


    Although Lan Chang''an held a certain level of caution toward the Xie Family of Chen Kingdom, he was far from fearful.


    The only one he truly feared was the Xie Family¡¯s Nascent Soul ancestor, which was why he refrained from burning bridges entirely.


    Normally, a Nascent Soul elder wouldn¡¯t casually break the rules of the cultivation world by targeting someone like him.


    After all, there was only one Nascent Soul cultivator in all of Chen Kingdom. Unless it was a matter of great importance, such figures wouldn¡¯t bother with minor affairs.


    If such trivial matters required the ancestor¡¯s personal intervention, they might as well eliminate all their underling Immortals for ipetence.


    Thus, as long as Lan Chang''an maintained appearances and honored the third-rank spiritual contract in name, he could avoid even the slim chance of trouble.


    As for what would happen five yearster...


    By then, Lan Chang''an would have already finished dissolving his core.


    Moreover, the demonic forces from the Six Great Demonic Sects were expected tounch invasions on neighboring nations, making it even less likely for the Xie Family¡¯s Nascent Soul elder to "leave their post."


    As for the other Xie Family cultivators?


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t confident he could defeat them inbat, but he still has experience in self-preservation and running away. Furthermore, the Xie Family¡¯s influence wasrgely confined to Chen Kingdom, where they ruled unchallenged.


    If Lan Chang''an retreated to Liang Kingdom or Feng Kingdom, the Xie Family would have to restrain themselves and could no longer act so brazenly.


    Once Lan Chang''anpleted his Core Formation, he had no intention of staying in Jing Kingdom for long.


    Returning to the Liang Kingdom or moving to Feng Kingdom would significantly reduce the Xie Family¡¯s threat against him.


    "Immortal Lan, now that you¡¯ve achieved Core Formation, when do you n to host your Core Formation celebration? Our Wufu Merchant Association would be honored to assist with the arrangements," Patriarch Xia proposed as they made their way back.


    "Core Formation celebration?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s first thought was to decline the idea outright, but after a moment¡¯s consideration, he changed his mind.


    Achieving a True Dan was an event of tremendous significance! If he didn¡¯t celebrate even a little, it would be too low-key ande across as over the top. Things that happened out of the ordinary would instead make people suspicious.


    "Let¡¯s set it for two months from now. A small-scale celebration¡ªno need to make it too ostentatious," Lan Chang''an said after some thought.


    "Rest assured, Immortal Lan. Leave the arrangements to me," Patriarch Xia replied with a pleased expression.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s willingness to hold the celebration in Qingsha Bay was a sign of trust in the Xia Family.


    This event would elevate not only the Xia Family¡¯s status but also the reputation of the Wufu Merchant Association would rise by a level.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an had spent seven days consolidating his cultivation in the immortal city before returning to Qingsha Bay. The Xia Family, who had received the news in advance, could hardly believe the news.


    "Greetings, Immortal Lan!"


    When the Xia Family members saw Lan Chang''an radiating the unmistakable spiritual pressure of a True Dan cultivator, they finally believed it.


    Xia Mingqu, Xia Shenn, and other Foundation Establishment cultivators personally came to greet him outside the family grounds.


    "Congrattions, Immortal Lan, on stepping onto the path of Core Formation," the Xia Family¡¯s young master said, taking a deep breath and bowing respectfully.


    His emotions were a mix of joy, admiration, and disbelief.


    Back then, who could have predicted that Lan Chang''an, a refugee hiding his identity aboard a cross-border spirit ship, would one day reach such heights?


    "Lan Chang''an... a True Dan cultivator..."


    Xia Shenn stared in a daze at the imposing figure of the man in white before her.


    Earlier, when she had greeted him and exchanged pleasantries, her mind had gonepletely nk.


    She couldn¡¯t help but recall how Lan Chang''an had once saved her in a moment of danger, how the family had even suggested they be a couple.


    She had once tried to approach him proactively. He had been gentle, refined, and easy to get along with.


    But all of that felt like a distant dream now.


    Today, Lan Chang''an had be a True Dan cultivator, a figure of immense significance even within the vast Jing Kingdom.


    After making a brief public appearance, Lan Chang''an returned to seclude on Autumnwind Isle and declined further visitors.


    This wasn¡¯t due to ack of courtesy, but rather because too many people now sought to associate with him.


    Regardless of their prior rtionship¡ªorck thereof¡ªeven outsiders wished to build connections with him.


    As a high-level True Dan cultivator, Lan Chang''an had effectively entered an entirely different realmpared to most ordinary cultivators.


    The disparity between their statuses was akin to that between a local clerk and a provincial governor.


    ...


    Inside the secret chamber on Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an refrained from further cultivation. Instead, he used his Evergreen True Dan mana to nurture the treasure talismans in his possession.


    "True Dan-level mana really is different," Lan Chang''an noted as he observed subtle improvements in the treasure talismans after his efforts.


    This suggested that the third-rank treasure talismans in his hand still had room for enhancement.


    Of particr note were a few talismans crafted from superior-grade third-rank spiritual bamboo, which were already third-rank mid grade treasure talismans, with two of them even being at the third-rank superior grade.


    "If I were to form an upper-grade True Dan, or even a Golden Dan, the nurturing effects would be even more pronounced. With a hundred years of nurturing, fourth-rank treasure talismans wouldn¡¯t be out of reach..."


    Lan Chang''an silently looked forward to the possibilities.


    In this life, building on the knowledge of his past, he had delved deeply into the inheritance of treasure talisman crafting.


    Compared to his past life, his mastery of talisman-crafting¡ªespecially treasure talismans¡ªhad significantly improved.


    ...


    With two months remaining until the Core Formation celebration, Lan Chang''an divided his time between nurturing treasure talismans and feeding his Profound Water Turtlee with Evergreen True Dan mana.


    As a result, the Profound Water Turtlee grew increasingly close to him again, and its cultivation speed surged dramatically.


    Lan Chang''an understood that this reflected the immense disparity between an early-stage True Dan cultivator and a second-rank early-stage demonic beast.


    The Profound Water Turtlee¡¯s base cultivation speed was notoriously slow, requiring over 500 years to reach the third rank.


    Without the help of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Evergreen technique, it would never have even broken through to the second rank so soon.


    With the infusion of True Dan-level Evergreen mana, the turtle was now nearing the mid-second rank and progressing far more rapidly toward thete second rank than ever before.


    While in seclusion, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯tpletely iste himself.


    He still met privately with Patriarch Xia and the young master, who asionally visited to seek advice.


    In addition, he received Xing Peng, an Incense Master of the Unseen Gate.


    "Congrattions, Immortal Lan, on achieving True Dan!"


    By now, Xing Peng had developed a deep sense of awe toward Lan Chang''an, discarding any lingering thoughts of underestimating him.


    Lan Chang''an had not only surpassed him in cultivation but also possessed a powerful third-rank demonic pet and the backing of a mysterious peak Core Formation expert.


    Xing Peng also brought news: Lan Chang''an¡¯s recent advancement had caught the attention of his cousin, the "Shadow Hall Chief."


    The Shadow Hall Chief was at the mid-Core Formation stage, but Lan Chang''an had no reason to fear him.


    Instead, he asked Xing Peng to keep an eye on the movements of the Xie Family in Chen Kingdom.


    ...


    As the celebration approached, news of Lan Chang''an¡¯s achievement spread among the surrounding cultivation factions.


    Meanwhile, his inspiring story of achieving Core Formation at an advanced age began circting in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivationmunity.


    However, the tale wasn¡¯t without its skeptics.


    Some rumors suggested that Lan Chang''an¡¯ste sess in forming a Core wasn¡¯t solely due to his personal life nurturing technique but also thanks to the backing of the powerful Xie Family.


    Lan Chang''an found this narrative quite satisfactory.


    The rumors struck a bnce between admiration for his perseverance and downying the extraordinariness of his aplishment.


    At 170 years old, forming a Core was indeed rare, but not unheard of.


    The cultivation world was vast, and Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t the only practitioner of life-nurturing techniques.


    Such methods represented a niche but established school of thought.


    Ancient longevity techniques could extend lifespans during the Foundation Establishment stage by up to 10%, amon phenomenon.


    With the addition of first- and second-rank Life Extension Pills, a cultivator¡¯s total lifespan could approach 300 years.


    If one consumed third-rank Life Extension Pills, even greater extensions were possible.


    As such, within the past thousand years of Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation history, there had been others who achieved Core Formation at a simr age.


    And in neighboring nations, one could find even more examples.


    Such cases were rare, but not imusible.


    ...


    As the days passed, the date of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Core Formation celebration drew closer.


    Some representatives from various factions even arrived early in Qingsha Bay to pay their respects.


    For example, the other four families of the Wufu Merchant Association sent their emissaries.


    The patriarch of the Xin family, a Fake Dan ancestor, personally came to Qingsha Bay hoping to meet Lan Chang''an but was politely turned away.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s decision to host the celebration in Qingsha Bay had clearly left the Xin family shaken.


    In addition to the Wufu families, Hanyu Immortal from the Snow Fox Merchant Association also came early to pay her respects.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t neglect her and received her promptly.


    In a side hall, Hanyu Immortal was dressed in a snow-white pce gown, her appearance as ethereal as an ice fairy.


    She smiled faintly and said, "Our guild¡¯s Grand Elder, Guangjun Immortal, is unwell and couldn¡¯te in person. I hope Immortal Lan can forgive us."


    Lan Chang''an infused his mana into a teapot, causing it to boil midair before pouring tea for the two of them.


    He smiled and asked, "Did youe alone? Has Xiang Jinglong stopped bothering you?"


    "No," Hanyu Immortal replied with a puzzled expression.


    "Strangely enough, Xiang Jinglong lingered in Cloudsmoke Immortal City for over ten days but suddenly left one day and hasn¡¯t troubled me since."


    "Oh? That¡¯s good news," Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile.


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an politely escorted Hanyu Immortal out of his residence.


    ...


    Finally, the day of the Core Formation celebration arrived.


    Representatives from various factions and individual cultivators arrived in Qingsha Bay to offer their congrattions.


    The celebration was limited to the Jing Kingdom region.


    Most of the guests were connected to the Wufu Merchant Association, as Lan Chang''an had few ties outside the guild or the area surrounding Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    He had thought the celebration would be a rtively uneventful affair, something he could get through without much effort.


    But to his surprise, the event weed some unexpected guests.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 261: The Fastest and the Slowest

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Today, Qingsha Bay was livelier than it had been in hundreds of years.


    Beams of light streaked through the sky, flying boats, magical weapons, and spirit beast mounts whizzing by like shooting stars, their brilliance dazzling. One after another, guests arrived in quick session, a spectacle of splendor.


    Most of the guests who hade to offer their congrattions were in the Foundation Establishment stage, though asionally, the aura of an Immortal could be sensed amidst the crowd.


    The Core Formation ceremony was being held in a grand hall at the heart of Qingsha Bay.


    The grand hall was divided into two sections: the main hall and the side hall.


    The side hall was used to receive ordinary guests whose presence wasn¡¯t closely connected to the celebrant.


    The main hall, on the other hand, hosted those of higher status, most of whom were invited personally.


    Lan Chang''an sat high atop a white jade Dao tform at the head of the main hall, overlooking the proceedings.Below him, rows of distinguished guest seats were arranged, each amodating either a single individual or small groups of two or three.


    From time to time, the sound of congrattory gifts being announced echoed through the hall:


    ¡°The Wu Family of Hengshan presents a 300-year-old ck Spirit Mushroom. Elder Wu Chen offers his regards!¡±


    ¡°The Snow Fox Merchant Association presents a set of third-rank talisman tools, including a brush, spirit ink, and an inkstone. Presented by Immortal Hanyu!¡±


    ¡°Tengxing Merchant Association presents a third-rank Bluewood branch. Offered by Shen Bixin!¡±


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t recognize most of the cultivators offering gifts. However, whenever he heard a familiar name, he would pay a bit more attention.


    Immortal Hanyu had arrived early, but her gift was formally presented today. As the representative of a prominent merchant guild, she was seated not far from Lan Chang''an in a position of honor.


    Shen Bixin was dressed in a flowing silk dress, her figure full and graceful, but her face showed the signs of aging, appearing to be in her forties or fifties, with visible wrinkles and dark spots.


    She brought with her a pale and delicate young man who bowed deeply before the jade tform. The boy was only at the Qi-Refining stage and kept his head lowered, trembling slightly, not daring to look directly at the dignified ¡°Evergreen Immortal¡± atop the tform.


    ¡°Immortal Lan,¡± Shen Bixin began with a respectful bow, ¡°this humble one, Shen Bixin, and my son, Song Xi, offer our heartfelt congrattions. May Immortal Lan have a long life and an evesting immortal path.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s voice was warm andforting, like a spring breeze, as he replied, ¡°Fellow Daoist Shen, we have known each other for many years. There¡¯s no need for such formality.¡±


    He nced briefly at the boy named Song Xi, a flicker of thought crossing his mind before arranging for Shen Bixin and her son to be seated next to Immortal Hanyu.


    Though their conversation was brief, it was enough for the nearby guests to discern that Lan Chang''an and Shen Bixin shared some past acquaintance.


    As noon approached, the number of cultivators who hade to offer their congrattions swelled to several hundred.


    Hmm?


    Suddenly, Lan Chang''an, who was sipping a toast from a Fake Dan Immortal, felt his gaze drawn toward the outskirts of Qingsha Bay.


    A foreign True Dan aura was rapidly approaching.


    Though it was also at the early Core Formation stage, this neer¡¯s aura was far stronger than Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    ...


    Some dozens of li away from Qingsha Bay, a luxurious carriage with dragon-patterned carvings was gliding through the air. It was dark green in color, pulled by two spirit beasts with antlers resembling those of deer.


    The carriage was semi-open, with only a canopy woven from the feathers of rare spiritual birds providing shade from above.


    Seated at the rear of the carriage was a young man in a green jade robe, draped in a ck cape. His aura exuded wealth and authority.


    The coachman driving the carriage was an imposing, purple-faced man in thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    ¡°Young Master Ling, we¡¯re almost at Qingsha Bay,¡± the coachman, Fang Zhong, said respectfully as he tightened the reins and slowed the carriage¡¯s speed.


    ¡°Hehe, the renowned ¡®Evergreen Immortal,¡¯ the oldest loose cultivator in the Jing Kingdom to achieve Core Formation in the past few hundred years. I¡¯m rather curious to see this figure for myself,¡± the young master said casually, his tone rxed as if he were on a sightseeing trip.


    ¡°Young Master, you are the youngest Core Formation cultivator in the Jing Kingdom¡¯s history. That Lan Chang''an, who only managed to form his core at the age of over 170, is hardly worthy ofparison to you,¡± Fang Zhong ttered, a look of disdain crossing his face.


    However, deep inside, Fang Zhong couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of jealousy. Over 170 years to form a core? He found it bitterly unfair.


    Years ago, when Fang Zhong and Lan Chang''an had been stowaways on the same cross-border spiritual ship, they had shared drinks and conversations as equals.


    But after entering the Jing Kingdom, their paths diverged when they joined different chambers ofmerce.


    Who could have imagined that Lan Chang''an would go on to form a core while Fang Zhong¡¯s guild, the Xinyue Merchant Association, fell into decline within just a decade?


    Now, Fang Zhong had been sold off to the Taifeng Merchant Association, one of the three great merchant guilds, and had be nothing more than a servant to this young master.


    ¡°Ling Feng, the young master of the Taifeng Merchant Association!¡±


    ¡°How could this proud son of heaven personallye to Qingsha Bay to congratte him?¡±


    The dragon-carved carriage made its ostentatious approach, drawing the attention of countless cultivators.


    Many among the crowd recognized its owner.


    ¡°The young master of Taifeng Merchant Association, Ling Feng!¡±


    A booming voice announced from afar, ¡°Ling Feng, Young Master of Taifeng Merchant Association, presents two third-rank precious gems as a gift of congrattions!¡±


    The announcement resounded clearly into the grand hall, and the news quickly reached Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Ling Feng, the Young Master of Taifeng Merchant Association?¡±


    Whispers and gasps spread among the Xia Family and the gathered guests.


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly and asked, ¡°Was this person on the invitation list?¡±


    Lan Chang''an had heard of the reputation of the Taifeng Merchant Association. The current leader of the Merchant Alliance was ate-stage True Dan Great Cultivator from that guild.


    "We didn¡¯t invite the Taifeng Merchant Association. I don¡¯t know why they¡¯vee."


    Xia Mingqu was also puzzled.


    Thinking of something, he added:


    "Oh, right, Young Master Ling is the youngest cultivator in Jing Kingdom to advance to the True Dan stage in hundreds of years."


    ¡°How young?¡± Lan Chang''an asked curiously.


    ¡°It is said that he formed his core in his eighties after building his foundation before the age of thirty. He¡¯s only just over a hundred years old now.¡± Xia Mingqu transmitted his thoughts, his eyes showing envy.


    That Young Master Ling''s birth was too good!


    The Taifeng Merchant Association is regarded as the top guild in the Merchant Alliance, unimaginably wealthy.


    It¡¯s rumored that the Crystal Condensation Pill used by Young Master Ling for his Core Formation was of the superior quality. He even used three types of superior spiritual items for Core Formation.


    Otherwise, with his earth spiritual roots, it would have been impossible for him to advance so quickly.


    "A True Dan cultivator this young?"


    Lan Chang''an was astonished. Even in his previous life, he had rarely heard of someone so young advancing to the True Dan stage.


    Why had this unexpected gueste to his Core Formation celebration?


    Could it be that he intends to bully an old man like me?


    ...


    The visitor¡¯s status was distinguished, so Lan Chang''an personally stepped out of the main hall to greet him, meeting the esteemed Young Master Ling Feng.


    "For someone like me, who has only formed my Core in old age, what virtue or ability do I possess to warrant Young Master Ling''s honored presence?"


    Seeing the white-clothed man who seemed to be eighteen years old, Young Master Ling froze slightly.


    ¡°Immortal Lan,¡± Ling Feng said with a heartyugh, ¡°you truly live up to your reputation as a master of life-nurturing techniques. You look much younger than I imagined!¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly, though inwardly he noted the curious gleam in Ling Feng¡¯s eyes. It was the kind of gaze one might use to admire a rare treasure or an amusing mascot.


    He had seen this sort of reaction before, a hundred years ago, when he had achieved Foundation Establishment at the ripe old age of seventy.


    But just as he raised his hand to invite Ling Feng into the main hall, another Core Formation aura¡ªfar more domineering than Ling Feng¡¯s¡ªdescended upon Qingsha Bay.


    ¡°This aura¡­ it¡¯s from a demonic cultivation technique!¡±


    Ling Feng¡¯s expression shifted, his previously casual demeanor reced by sharp vignce.


    The neer¡¯s aura was also at the early Core Formation stage, but their presence was even more overwhelming than Ling Feng¡¯s.


    One must know that Ling Feng''s Core quality was already in the upper-tier of True Dan, the visitor''s cultivation was either deeper than his, or the quality of the Core was higher.


    A voice rang out, cold andmanding:


    ¡°Li Hai, eldest disciple of the Xuan Yin Sect Leader, offers his congrattions to Immortal Lan, presenting a Soul-Cleansing Pearl and a Bitter Clear Bamboo.¡±


    A dense cloud of demonic energy surged forward, carrying a tall figure in ck robes. His sharp shoulders and cold gaze sent waves of unease through the crowd.


    ¡°Li Hai! The first disciple of Liang Shaotian!¡±


    The crowd in Qingsha Bay erupted in hushed whispers, their expressions turning grave.


    Even the immortals felt a chill when their gazes met Li Hai¡¯s cold eyes. For those below True Dan, meeting his gaze felt like being struck by lightning.


    Patriarch Xia Hongyu''s face paled. His family had definitely not invited any demonic sect cultivators to this Core Formation celebration.


    "Li Hai is Liang Shaotian¡¯s eldest disciple¡ªwhy would he personally attend this Core Formation celebration?"


    "Could it be that the Xia Family or Lan Chang''an has some secret dealings with the demonic sect?"


    Even now, though the Xuan Yin Sect had gained recognition from surrounding sects, most cultivators still chose to keep their distance out of caution.


    Only Lan Chang''an understood why Li Hai hade to offer his congrattions.


    After advancing to True Dan, it was nearly impossible for Lan Chang''an to avoid drawing Liang Shaotian¡¯s attention.


    "Liang Shaotian¡¯s eldest disciple is already this powerful? At the peak of early True Dan and reportedly an earth spiritual root cultivator who has mastered the ''ck Dipper Demonic me.''¡±


    Lan Chang''an silently assessed: Without using the trump cards from his past lives, he was absolutely no match for this person.


    Due to the mediocre quality of his Core and being newly advanced to True Dan, Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength was rtively weak among those of the same rank.


    Under normal circumstances, even in a direct contest of mana and magic treasures, Ling Feng could easily overpower him.


    As for Li Hai, he could likely defeat Ling Feng with ease,parable to an ordinary mid-stage True Dan cultivator.


    Afterpleting his evaluation, Lan Chang''an suddenly froze. Had he just be a measuring unit for True Dan cultivators?


    ...


    "To personally receive the esteemed disciple of Sect Master Liang, I, Lan, am truly overwhelmed."


    "This Core Formation Ceremony was arranged without sending out invitation letters in advance; I hope the Sacred Sect can forgive this oversight."


    Lan Chang''an, apanied by Patriarch Xia, personally stepped forward to wee them.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you are being too polite. It is I, Li Hai, who came uninvited, which may seem presumptuous," Li Hai replied, his aura overwhelming as he descended before Lan Chang''an, though his tone was humble and courteous.


    Young Master Ling recognized Li Hai.


    Seeing this scene, his brows furrowed slightly, and a trace of astonishment appeared in his eyes.


    From what he knew, Li Hai, as the eldest disciple of Liang Shaotian, often acted on behalf of the Xuan Yin Sect Master¡¯s will.


    It was extremely rare for Li Hai to visit other forces within Liang Kingdom.


    Attending the Core Formation Ceremony of a lone Immortal was, in fact, unprecedented. Instead, many major factions of the Merchant Alliance actively sought to curry favor with the demonic sect.


    Currently, Liang Shaotian was in secluded cultivation. If he sessfully advanced to thete stage of Core Formation, he would be truly invincible in Jing Kingdom.


    "The two Immortals, please this way."


    Lan Chang''an, Ling Feng, and Li Hai¡ªthe three Core Formation cultivators¡ªentered the grand hall, surrounded by reverent gazes.


    Outside the hall, Fang Zhong carefully tended to the carriage and waited outside as a servant.


    "Core Formation cultivators..."


    Staring at the backs of the three True Dan experts, Fang Zhong''s heart was filled with bitterness.


    Lan Chang''an walked side by side with his master, the eldest disciple of the Demonic Sect, at a height he could never hope to reach in this lifetime.


    ...


    Inside the main hall.


    As the protagonist of the celebration, Lan Chang''an still upied the central seat of honor.


    Ling Feng and Li Hai sat across from each other on either side of the front row, their positions mirroring their subtly tense rtionship.


    Lan Chang''an vaguely sensed that Ling Feng and Li Hai did not get along. During the earlier introductions outside, their exchange was cold and detached.


    "Fellow Daoist Li, it is unprecedented for the Xuan Yin Sect to attend the Core Formation Ceremony of another Immortal in Jing Kingdom. Your presence here today truly surprises me," Ling Feng spoke, voicing the question lingering in many minds.


    Other factions might fear the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, but the Taifeng Merchant Association did not.


    Taifeng Merchant Association was the leading merchant guild within the Merchant Alliance, with abundant wealth and power, and maintained close ties with major factions in neighboring cultivation countries.


    Moreover, the Taifeng Merchant Association had a legendary background.


    There was a famous rumor in Jing Kingdom:


    Many years ago, a son of luck had emerged in Jing Kingdom, traveling to the flourishing Central Region of Great Qing to achieve the rank of Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    That son of luck reportedly joined an ancient, powerful Nascent Soul sect in the Central Region.


    The fact that the Jing Kingdom was able to maintain its neutrality, aside from its geographic advantages andck of fourth-rank spirit veins, was said to be rted to this legend.


    The Taifeng Merchant Association publicly imed that this son of luck originated from a family under their banner.


    Another major merchant faction, the Feiyan Merchant Association, also imed to have a connection to this individual.


    Whether these ims were true or mere propaganda was unclear.


    Nheless, Jing Kingdom had maintained its neutrality for many years, surviving minor disasters without being annexed by its neighbors.


    "Young Master Ling, curiosity can be dangerous," Li Hai¡¯s piercing gaze locked onto Ling Feng, sending a chill through him.


    After retracting his gaze, Li Hai added indifferently, "My master, upon hearing of Fellow Daoist Lan''s remarkable achievement of forming a Core Formation Pill at an advanced age, as well as his noble character and esteemed reputation, sent me to extend congrattions."


    "This is a step for my Sacred Sect to integrate into the orthodox cultivation world. With Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s magnanimous character, I trust he will not reject our goodwill."


    Hearing Li Hai''s exnation, everyone present seemed to grasp its deeper implications.


    Although the Xuan Yin Sect had been legalized, lingering prejudices and tensions with the orthodox cultivation world persisted.


    Lan Chang''an''s inspirational reputation as an elder achieving Core Formationte in life made him a hot topic in Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    As a kind and upright figure, he was likely chosen by the demonic sect as an ideal starting point to ease their way into the orthodox circles¡ªa calcted move to test the waters.


    Whether or not this was the true reason, no one could find another exnation.


    After all, Lan Chang''an was merely a loose cultivator at the Core Formation level. A colossal force like the demonic sect had no need to openly befriend him.


    If they wanted to bribe him, it would¡¯ve been done privately.


    ...


    Li Hai only stayed for half an hour before departing.


    During this time, he only toasted with Lan Chang''an once and barely interacted with the other cultivators.


    "This matter, there''s something fishy."


    Young Master Ling watched Li Hai¡¯s departing figure, his gaze flickering.


    He had dealt with Li Hai before and knew that both Li Hai and his master Liang Shaotian were extremely proud individuals.


    Although Li Hai¡¯s exnation earlier held no ws on the surface, Ling Feng couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that it wasn¡¯t so simple.


    Subconsciously, Ling Feng developed a trace of interest in "Evergreen Immortal" Lan Chang''an.


    Earlier, Li Hai had only toasted Lan Chang''an, ignoring all the other Core Formation cultivators, including Ling Feng himself.


    For Ling Feng, attending this ceremony was more of a whim.


    After all, the Taifeng Merchant Association didn¡¯t need someone of his rank to attend such events.


    With a flicker of thought, Ling Feng decided to test the waters.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I believe you can tell that Li Hai and I are not aligned."


    "This person once remarked that I rely too heavily on external resources, achieving the fastest cultivation speed in the Liang Kingdom in centuries, but with limited future potential."


    "May I ask if Fellow Daoist Lan agrees with his assessment?"


    Ling Feng smiled faintly, waiting to see how this amiable old man would handle this delicate question.


    The hall fell silent for a moment.


    Ling Feng and Lan Chang''an were two extremes¡ªthe fastest and the slowest cultivators in Jing Kingdom to achieve Core Formation in centuries.


    This question was sharp and implied an unavoidable choice:


    Agree with Li Hai¡¯s words, and Lan Chang''an would align with the demonic sect.


    Disagree, and he¡¯d risk offending the demonic sect to favor the Merchant Alliance.


    "In the cultivation world, there are geniuses who rise swiftly and those who achieve greatnesster in life. Anything is possible."


    "Whether Fellow Daoist Li¡¯s words are correct or not will depend on who achieves greater sess in the future," Lan Chang''an replied, skillfully deflecting the question and throwing it back at Li Hai and Ling Feng.


    Whoever had the greater strength would be proven right.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan speaks wisely!"


    Many guests apuded his response.


    Ling Feng¡¯s expression remained unreadable, and he had no rebuttal.


    After all, the cultivation world respected strength above all else, and currently, he was no match for Li Hai.


    Li Hai, with his earth spiritual root, had been trained by Liang Shaotian since an early age, making him a top-tier talent second only to Ling Feng in cultivation speed.


    "The aplished individuals that Immortal Lan speaks of, who achieve greatnesster in life¡ªcould that perhaps be a reflection of your own aspirations?"


    Ling Feng raised his cup in a toast, a faintly meaningful smile on his face.


    "I don¡¯t aspire to achieve greatnesster in life," Lan Chang''an replied calmly. "I only wish to live longer. That¡¯s all."


    Live longer?


    Ling Feng chuckled lightly. That did align perfectly with Lan Chang''an''s nicknames, "Turtle Talisman Master" and "Evergreen Immortal."


    Based on his past actions, what Lan Chang''an said was clearly the in truth.


    Ling Feng finished his drink in one go.


    After probing him, his interest in Lan Chang''an greatly diminished.


    Just a cautious old Turtle Immortal clinging to life.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Ling Feng left Qingsha Bay in his luxurious carriage.


    The unexpected presence of two prestigious guests, Ling Feng and Li Hai, had added to the renown of Lan Chang''an''s Core Formation celebration.


    The reputation of his old age Core Formation would soon spread throughout Jing Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    Aside from Ling Feng and Li Hai, other True Dan cultivators also attended the celebration¡ªsuch as Huang Lang Immortal from the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t understand why Huang Lang Immortal, someone he had no prior dealings with, would personallye to Qingsha Bay.


    "If Immortal Lan had formed his Core a few years earlier, you might have met an old acquaintance from Liang Kingdom," said Huang Lang Immortal, dressed in a fur-lined cloak, sitting in Ling Feng''s previous seat. His bright eyes shone, and his face radiated a friendly smile.


    "An old acquaintance from the Liang Kingdom?"


    Lan Chang''an thought of Fu Xuemei, someone he had confronted years ago while secretly protecting a caravan from the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    What kind of deal had Huang Lang Immortal and Fu Xuemei reached? Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t know. But from his words, it seemed Fu Xuemei might have left Jing Kingdom.


    ¡­


    Before sunset, the cultivators who attended the Core Formation celebration gradually dispersed.


    A few cultivators remained at Qingsha Bay with the Xia Family, seeking cooperation or hoping to privately meet Lan Chang''an, the newly-advanced True Dan cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an, however, didn¡¯t meet everyone. After carefully filtering them, he only received a few people¡ªincluding Shen Bixin and her son.


    Inside the study on Autumnwind Isle...


    "Immortal Lan, you once promised a favor. You said your word would hold, and today, I have something to ask."


    Shen Bixin pulled her son, Song Xi, along and both knelt down together.


    "I hope that Immortal Lan will take my son as your disciple," Shen Bixin pleaded.


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an remained silent for a few moments.


    When Shen Bixin and her son came to congratte him, he had already expected this request.


    The favor owed from years ago, when Shen Bixin had gathered materials for him, was finally being cashed in¡ªand the return she sought was immense.


    "I will be leaving Jing Kingdom soon and will be wandering without a fixed home. I don¡¯t have ns to take on a disciple," Lan Chang''an said calmly. "However, if Fellow Daoist Shen insists, I can ept him as a nominal disciple, though I won¡¯t have much time or energy to teach him."


    "Alternatively," he added, "I can offer a second choice: If your son seeks me out in the future, before reaching Foundation Establishment or Core Formation, I will grant him a chance for advancement."


    Shen Bixin deliberated for a moment before choosing the second option. After all, it was clear that Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t particrly eager to take on a disciple.


    "Xi¡¯er, hurry and thank Immortal Lan," Shen Bixin said to her son.


    "Thank you, Immortal Lan," Song Xi said, bowing deeply. Hearing about the opportunity for Core Formation advancement stirred something in his heart.


    The towering status of a True Dan cultivator was something he had deeply felt today. Compared to bing a nominal disciple, the second option seemed far more practical.


    It won''t be until many yearster that Song Xi would realize what he had missed today.


    Lan Chang''an smiled warmly as he sent Shen Bixin and her son off.


    He was a man of his word. Excluding cases of coercion, he always fulfilled promises made within his ability to keep.


    If Shen Bixin had insisted, he would have epted Song Xi as a disciple and upheld the basic duties of a teacher. However, just as he had anticipated, the mother and son were swayed by the second option.


    ...


    Later that night, as the celebratorymotion in Qingsha Bay finally quieted, Lan Chang''an retreated to his study.


    In the shadows, a figure wearing a gray-white hooded robe appeared in the corner.


    "Did you notice anyone suspicious at today¡¯s ceremony?" Lan Chang''an asked, hands sped behind his back.


    "There were a few, mostly insignificant ones. However, there is one individual you should pay close attention to."


    "Oh? Who is it?"


    "Huang Lang Immortal!"


    Lan Chang''an was not surprised. From the first time he met the other party under the mask of "Immortal Xiang," he had sensed something unusual about Huang Lang Immortal.


    "What issue do you see with him?"


    "Huang Lang Immortal practices a soul perception secret art that allows him to sense a target''s emotional fluctuations and, in some cases, even probe their inner thoughts. This kind of spiritual technique originates from one of the Six Sacred Sects¡ªthe Beast King Valley," Xing Peng said cautiously.


    "Beast King Valley? And the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association? Could there be a connection between the two?"


    "I do not have clearance to ess higher-level intelligence, but based on scattered clues, I suspect that the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association may have branched out from the Beast King Valley a long time ago," Xing Peng spected.


    Upon hearing this, Lan Chang''an began to grasp the implications.


    The Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association had likely been infiltrated or turned by the Unseen Sect¡ªa notorious subsect of the Beast King Valley.


    "Moreover, the Beast King Valley is very likely the main assault force preparing to invade the borders of Feng Kingdom and the surrounding regions."


    Xing Peng threw out another shocking piece of information.


    "The Beast King Valley as the main force? Does that mean the Six Demonic Sects have only sent a single branch to attack Feng Kingdom''s surroundings?" Lan Chang''an asked, realization dawning on him.


    "One branch is enough," Xing Peng said after a pause, deciding to speak inly.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 262: Body Refining Technique

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    A Few Days Later.


    The bustling Qingsha Bay had finally returned to tranquility.


    The Xia Family, after summarizing and organizing the gifts received during the Core Formation Ceremony, sent them to Autumnwind Isle.


    Lan Chang''an only epted the portion that belonged to him, such as gifts from figures like Li Hai, Ling Feng, Shen Bixin, and the Hanyu Immortal.


    Many of the gifts were merely exchanges of goodwill between business associations, where giving and reciprocating weremon.


    Even so, the Xia Family took the opportunity to make a profit.


    Since it was a Core Formation Ceremony, the value of the gifts sent was notably higher than usual.


    Some cultivation sects that had minimal dealings with the Wufu Merchant Association even sent representatives to attend.After checking the gifts, Lan Chang''an found the harvest to exceed his expectations.


    Among them, there was no shortage of third-rank spiritual items and materials.


    The Hanyu Immortal presented a set of third-rank talisman drawing tools, including a talisman brush, spiritual ink, and an inkstone¡ªsuitable for Lan Chang''an¡¯s daily use.


    Talisman drawing tools, after all, are consumables.


    The mid-grade third-rank talisman brush Lan Chang''an had obtained years ago was severely worn and could only be used a few dozen more times.


    ¡°Soul-Cleansing Pearl, Bitter Clear Bamboo¡­¡±


    ¡°The gift from Liang Shaotian¡¯s eldest disciple is truly thoughtful.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression turned strange as he chuckled softly.


    The Soul-Cleansing Pearl, a soul-path treasure, could nurture and refine the soul, making it far more valuable than ordinary third-rank treasures.


    The Bitter Clear Bamboo could calm the mind and purify the heart, dispelling inner demons and mental obstacles, providing a slight boost in breakthroughs to major realms.


    When used together, these two items were excellent for soul recovery and improving harmony between soul and body.


    ¡°Could it be that this person genuinely believes the legendary great cultivator Yan Doni''s bullshit?¡±


    Lan Chang''an spected that Liang Shaotian might have found records about "Yan Doni" in ancient texts, leading to an inexplicable reverence for him.


    Yan Doni was no ordinaryte-stage Nascent Soul cultivator. Known as a legendary great cultivator, his fame wasn¡¯t confined to a single region of the Heaven Honoured Continent.


    This was a conclusion Lan Chang''an had reached after two lifetimes.


    In his past life in the Great Kun region, there were some records about Yan Doni, though sparse¡ªindicating that Yan was likely not a cultivator native to Great Kun. ?


    Lan Chang''an knew little about cultivation levels beyond Nascent Soul. He only heard that Nascent Soul True Monarchs possessed the strength to traverse vast distances between cultivation regions.


    For early-stage Nascent Soul cultivators, long journeys might still pose risks. But for ate-stage Nascent Soul great cultivator, such travel was likely a breeze.


    From Xing Peng, Lan Chang''an learned that 300 years ago, the Ten Sects of the Xuan Gate in the Central Region of Great Qing produced ate-stage Nascent Soul leader who led the sect to defeat the Six Demonic Sects.


    This Xuan Gate leader had vanished nearly 200 years ago.


    Most likely, they had left Great Qing to roam other regions, seeking the elusive chance to ascend to the Deity Transformation Realm.


    ...


    Half a Month Later.


    The newly advanced Core Formation cultivator, "Evergreen Immortal," had officially be an honored elder for both the Wufu Merchant Association and the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    This news spread swiftly across the area surrounding Cloudsmoke Immortal City.


    The Wufu and Snow Fox Merchant Associations had reached certain cooperative agreements, earning preferential treatment and support from thetter.


    Lan Chang''an, with his inspiring reputation as a Core Formation cultivator, became a shining symbol of prestige.


    Even if his role as an honored elder was only honorary, it still brought considerable status enhancement for the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    Mysteriously, Xiang Jinglong had suddenly ceased his pursuit of the Hanyu Immortal. As a result, the Snow Fox Merchant Association''s internal and external crises were resolved effortlessly.


    Lan Chang''an and the Xia Family Patriarch were seen appearing at the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s headquarters, confirming the news for many cultivators.


    The silver-haired, snow-robed Hanyu Immortal, along with several senior members of the association, personally escorted Lan Chang''an and the Xia Family Patriarch out of the premises.


    ¡°Immortal Lan is so amiable¡ªtruly a man of noble character and great virtue,¡± a few senior members of the merchant guild praised.


    The Hanyu Immortal watched the departing streaks of light belonging to Lan Chang''an and the Xia Family Patriarch, a hint of surprise shing in her eyes.


    It was she who had proposed the idea of making Lan Chang''an an honored elder for both associations to foster cooperation.


    Initially, she had anticipated some resistance.


    Unexpectedly, Lan Chang''an was remarkably agreeable, showing no signs of making things difficult during the negotiations.


    As long as Lan Chang''an was willing, the Wufu Merchant Association, which also stood to benefit, had no reason to object.


    Moreover, the spiritual vein at Qingsha Bay was at best a quasi-third-rank vein¡ªnot enough to retain a Core Formation cultivator.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong¡¯s decision to back off likely has something to do with Immortal Lan as well,¡± she spected.


    That day, when the head disciple of the Demonic Sect, Li Hai, attended the Core Formation Ceremony, the Hanyu Immortal had begun piecing together some suspicions.


    Unintentionally, Lan Chang''an had greatly aided the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    Respectful and grateful, the Hanyu Immortal couldn¡¯t help but develop a sense of admiration and a desire to repay the favor.


    Inparison to Xiang Immortal, who had disappeared and broken his promises, Lan Chang''an truly embodied a noble character.


    She had, on more than one asion, tried to draw closer to Lan Chang''an¡ªsending voice transmissions with hints of her desire to "repay" him.


    Lan Chang''an, however, remained unmoved, maintaining an appropriate distance with a refined and gentlemanly demeanor.


    The Hanyu Immortal felt a sense of regret and longing.


    Such a man¡ªuntainted by the world, pure as jade¡ªwas someone she could never have.


    ¡°The gap between people can truly be so vast.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help but think of that untrustworthy, withered old man in a straw raincoat. The thought left her feeling ufortable, even disgusted.


    If only that straw-raincoat elder from years ago could be reced by someone like Lan Chang''an, things would have been perfect.


    ...


    Leaving Cloudsmoke Immortal City, Lan Chang''an had resolved his karmic ties with the Snow Fox Merchant Association.


    By agreeing to serve as an honorary elder, he had repaid an old favor.


    Lan Chang''an disliked owing others. He was nothing like Xiang Jinglong, who enjoyed freeloading and shirking debts.


    Now, his position also granted him the opportunity to share cultivation insights with the Cold Jade Immortal, potentially rekindling a fleeting rtionship.


    But Lan Chang''an refrained from pursuing such an oue.


    For one, his interest had greatly diminished.


    After all, such rtionships were shallow andcked genuine emotion.


    For another, prolonged close interaction might fail to escape a woman¡¯s intuition, potentially exposing his identity.


    ...


    On the Journey, Lan Chang''an noticed that the Xia Family Patriarch seemed to harbor concerns, perhaps feeling threatened by the Snow Fox Merchant Association¡¯s efforts to win him over.


    ¡°Immortal Lan, the spiritual vein at Autumnwind Isle is too humble for someone of your stature,¡± Xia Hongyu said with a sense of guilt.


    ¡°In two years, with thebined resources of the Wufu Merchant Association, we could hire a vein formation master to cultivate a small third-rank spiritual vein at the headquarters.¡±


    In the cultivation world, spiritual veins could be nurtured and enhanced, even relocated to a degree.


    However, this required the expertise of a vein formation master.


    This profession, a specialized branch of formation arts, was both rare and obscure.


    With sufficient investment in spirit stones and formations, it was possible to extract a segment of a third-rank spiritual vein from elsewhere to upgrade a high-grade second-rank vein to the third rank.


    However, this only allowed for small-scale transfers. The resulting third-rank spiritual energy area would be small and could sustain the daily cultivation of only one True Dan cultivator.


    For Core Formation breakthroughs, however, the energy requirements were immense, and such a setup would fall short.


    The higher the rank of the spiritual vein, the more challenging it was to cultivate or relocate.


    In the surrounding cultivation nations, there wasn¡¯t a single fourth-rank vein formation master.


    The main stronghold of the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect had reportedly paid a high price to employ a high-tier vein formation master, sessfully relocating and cultivating a third-rank spiritual vein.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for the Xia Patriarch to expend resources. Having formed my core, I won¡¯t remain in Jing Kingdom for long, and I certainly won¡¯t consider the Snow Fox Merchant Association,¡± Lan Chang''an said candidly, revealing his future ns.


    ¡°Indeed, as a cultivator of the Liang Kingdom, it¡¯s only natural for you to return home in glory after forming your core,¡± Xia Hongyu sighed, making no attempt to persuade him otherwise.


    Lan Chang''an had already decided to leave.


    Knowing he wasn¡¯t being poached by the Snow Fox Merchant Association made Xia Hongyu feel much more at ease.


    The Hanyu Immortal was a woman of stunning beauty¡ªicy and ethereal, both cold and noble. Her willingness to lower herself to draw Lan Chang''an in had not gone unnoticed by Xia Hongyu.


    He deeply admired Lan Chang''an¡¯s self-control. Had it been him, he might not have resisted the temptation.


    The Dao of Longevity emphasized restraint.


    While not requiring absolute abstinence, it did demand moderation.


    ¡°As a fellow cultivator of the Longevity Dao, no wonder Fellow Daoist Lan has progressed so much further. Viewing beauty as mere bones, leaving no offspring¡ªthis is how one remains unshackled¡­¡±


    Xia Hongyu faintly began to realize the gap between himself and Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    Returning to Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang''an entered the deep pool area through an underground tunnel.


    This ce was secured by formations, and the pool''s water served as a natural barrier.


    If Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t present, the Earth Burrowing Rat would stand guard. If both he and the Earth Burrowing Rat were absent, the mysterious Xuanmu Vine located deep beneath the pool would be taken away to ensure its safety.


    Lan Chang''an descended to the stone chamber at the bottom of the pool.


    He circted his Evergreen mana to nourish and water the Xuanmu Vine.


    Since advancing to Core Formation, Lan Chang''an had stopped regr cultivation, oftening here in recent days to use his mana to nurture the vine.


    "Even with Core Formation-level Evergreen mana, the withered parts of the vine show no signs of revival, and the minuscule green section only grows at an almost imperceptible pace."


    Through these recent experiments, Lan Chang''an reached a preliminary conclusion:


    The nourishing and healing effects of Core Formation-level Evergreen mana were several times stronger than during his Foundation Establishment stage.


    He thought back to the time he healed the root illness of Xia Wenyue, and the eldestdy of the Mu Family, with his current strength, it likely wouldn¡¯t have required sacrificing any of his lifespan.


    Even so, the Evergreen mana at the Core Formation stage couldn¡¯t reverse the withering of the Xuanmu Vine.


    ¡°It seems I¡¯ll have to consume my lifespan.¡±


    Lan Chang''an realized this might be tied to some fundamentalw of heaven and earth. Without a significant price like consuming lifespan, it would be nearly impossible to reverse the withering state of the vine.


    Fortunately, after forming his Core, Lan Chang''an¡¯s lifespan was incredibly abundant¡ªover a thousand years.


    Spending a few decades or even a century to attempt to save the mysterious Xuanmu Vine was entirely feasible.


    ¡°However, the time isn¡¯t right.¡±


    ¡°When I reform my Core, my cultivation will temporarily drop back to the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, and my current thousand-year lifespan will no longer exist.¡±


    To maintain peak condition, Lan Chang''an knew he couldn¡¯t recklessly consume his lifespan for an uncertain attempt at this stage.


    ...


    For the Core Reformation, Lan Chang''an already had a general n.


    Based on intelligence obtained from Xing Peng, the Six Demonic Sects were poised to invade soon.


    Lan Chang''an intended toplete the Core Shattering and Reformation process within the next few years.


    Fortunately, the Liang Kingdom and Jing Kingdom, located near the northern part of the ck Fog Mountain Range, were in the rear lines.


    The Feng Kingdom, vast and situated in the center, served as a buffer.


    Meanwhile, the original Yan Kingdom and the Chen Kingdom would likely face the brunt of the initial invasion.


    Unless the cultivation warpletely copsed, the conflict wouldn¡¯t reach the rear lines for several years.


    "The location of the spiritual vein that I choose for the final breakthrough during Core Reformation will be critical," Lan Chang''an thought deeply, his gaze turning towards the Liang Kingdom and Feng Kingdom.


    For this crucial breakthrough, all his precious resources¡ªCrystal Condensation Pill, Tianjing Water, Five Element Earth, and Bitter Clear Bamboo¡ªwould need to be used.


    A small ce like Jing Kingdom was unsuitable for such an endeavor.


    Even forming an upper-tier True Dan in Jing Kingdom would draw too much attention, as such achievements were rarely seen here, it would easily break the record of several centuries again.


    Inrger cultivation nations, such as the Feng Kingdom or the Seven Kingdoms Alliance, the broader horizons of the cultivators meant such aplishments wouldn¡¯t cause a stir.


    Forming a higher quality True Dan primarily indicated greater potential, purer spiritual power, and a slightly higher chance of advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm. However, it wasn¡¯t a guarantee.


    Even a prodigious Heavenly Spirit Root cultivator might find themselves stuck before forming a Nascent Soul.


    After all, the final hurdle of forming a Nascent Soul¡ªThe Heart Demon Tribtion¡ªwas a test that disregarded aptitude and spiritual power alike.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an already possessed aplete set of materials needed for a Crystal Condensation Pill.


    However, for the final breakthrough, he would only need one Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Given his certainty of sess, additional Crystal Condensation Pills weren¡¯t necessary¡ªunless he sought to create a superior-quality pill. But that possibility was low and could invite unnecessaryplications.


    Lacking a trusted third-rank alchemist, Lan Chang''an made a practical decision: there was no need to chase after a superior Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Superior-grade pills mainly increased the sess rate of forming a Dan, but they didn¡¯t directly enhance its quality. It merely made the process easier, leaving the cultivator with more energy to focus on improving the finished Dan¡¯s quality.


    With his past-life experience, peak soul strength from his previous life, and quasi-third-rank physique, Lan Chang''an found the Core Formation process rtively straightforward.


    For him, a superior Crystal Condensation Pill was just icing on the cake. Instead, he prioritized adding another high-quality Core Formation spiritual item to his resources.


    ¡°Rather than chasing after a superior-quality Crystal Condensation Pill, it¡¯s better to find a top-tier body refining technique and elevate my physique to a true third-rank level!¡±


    Currently, Lan Chang''an¡¯s body refining realm was infinitely close to the third rank.


    If he could achieve that breakthrough, his physical body would rival a third-rank Great Demon. In that case, his Core Reformation would be unbeatable.


    Unfortunately, the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual he initially practiced only reached the quasi-third rank at its highest level.


    The limiting factor for Lan Chang''an¡¯s body refinement progress wasn¡¯t his aptitude but the ceiling of the technique itself.


    ¡°Before leaving Jing Kingdom, I must try to find apatible, advanced body refining technique.¡±


    As long as the technique was sufficient, Lan Chang''an was confident he could elevate his body refinement to the third rank within a rtively short period!


    ...


    Over the next six months, Lan Chang''an traveled across the cultivation world of Jing Kingdom, visiting various immortal cities and marketces.


    The cultivation world of the Jing Kingdom had a highly developed trade system, with techniques circting far more freely than in the Liang Kingdom.


    This was advantageous for ordinary cultivators.


    Of course, Lan Chang''an no longer counted as an ordinary cultivator.


    Obtaining a Core Formation-level body refining technique was rtively easy for him.


    The challengey in:


    The new technique needed to align with the style and principles of the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual. Otherwise, switching would be akin to starting over, costing him more time.


    If the styles of the techniques were simr, it could be considered a technique transition rather than a full restart, significantly shortening the time required to adapt.


    As for whether the technique was slightly stronger or weaker, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t particrly care. After all, he didn¡¯t focus on body refinement as his main cultivation path or follow the way of body cultivation.


    Aside frompatibility, Lan Chang''an also wanted to avoid revealing his identity while searching for a technique. A body refining technique, if kept secret, could serve as a critical hidden weapon in desperate situations.


    These two factors significantly increased the difficulty of his search.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had ess to intelligenceworks, including help from the Incense Master within the Unseen Gate.


    In addition, Jing Kingdom had its own intelligence-selling factions.


    After six months, Lan Chang''an acquired two alternative body refining techniques, they were Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art and Demonic Dragon Overlord Physique.


    Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art ¨C A straightforward, unremarkable technique that tempered the body through repeated forging, akin to refining iron. It could reach thete third rank but required vast amounts of precious materials and ced a significant strain on the body. Lan Chang''an purchased this from the "Wanshu Pavilion" using spirit stones.


    Demonic Dragon Overlord Physique ¨C A fragmented technique with great power but demanding conditions. Cultivators needed to integrate special types of Great Demon blood during practice, granting them partial demonic transformations. Lan Chang''an bought this from a declining beast-taming family based on intelligence leads.


    ¡°If I don¡¯t find anything better, I¡¯ll settle for the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art,¡± Lan Chang''an sighed.


    While mediocre andcking in power, the technique¡¯s overall style was somewhat simr to the Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual.


    As for the Demonic Dragon Overlord Physique, its requirements were far too harsh, involving the absorption of demonic blood. Additionally, its side effects¡ªdemonic transformations duringbat¡ªdidn¡¯t align with Lan Chang''an¡¯s long-term philosophy for this life.


    ...


    Just as Lan Chang''an returned to Autumnwind Isle and prepared to practice the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art, Xing Peng brought a new piece of information.


    ¡°Master Lan, I¡¯ve uncovered another lead. It concerns a body refining technique that¡¯s considered the best in the Liang Kingdom and among the top in neighboring nations.¡±


    A man in a gray robe and hood emerged from the shadows of the room.


    ¡°What technique?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s called the Earth Fiend Heaven-Supporting Art. The practitioner is none other than Xiang Jinglong, the external elder of the Demonic Sect.¡±


    ¡°That man cultivates such a high-level technique? Why wasn¡¯t this known earlier?¡± Lan Chang''an asked, his surprise evident.


    ¡°Because this technique was granted to him by Liang Shaotian twenty years ago. Xiang Jinglong was instructed to switch techniques. The Earth Fiend Heaven-Supporting Art doesn¡¯t stand out before reaching the third rank¡ªit only enhances physical strength and demonic energy slightly.


    ¡°But just a few months ago, Xiang Jinglong risked his life in seclusion. When he emerged recently, despite bleeding from his seven orifices, he seeded in breaking through to the third-rank body refining realm!¡±


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a trace of admiration.


    ¡°Xiang Immortal is truly no ordinary man!¡±


    He guessed that Xiang Jinglong had likely turned his resentment into motivation, dangerously pushing himself to a breakthrough.


    That kind of ruthlessness, while counterproductive for Core Formation, could create opportunities for breakthroughs in body refinement.


    ¡°Where is Xiang Jinglong now? Do you have detailed information on the Earth Fiend Heaven-Supporting Art?¡±

 Chapter 263: Returning to Liang Kingdom

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Three monthster.


    On Autumnwind Isle, in the underground chamber.


    A rat puppet with dusky yellow fur, a sleek body, and about ten feet in length was finally assembled in front of Lan Chang¡¯an.


    After embedding several third-rank puppet crystals, Lan Chang¡¯an activated his Puppet Control Technique.


    The puppet''s dull gray eyes lit up with a chilling red glow that sent shivers down the spine.


    Swoosh!


    The silver-gray ws shed momentarily, tearing through the protective barriers within the chamber, leaving a deep, narrow fissure in their wake.


    The afterimage of the rat puppet solidified, exuding an invisible pressure akin to that of a third-rank creature."My first third-rank puppet!"


    A look of joy spread across Lan Chang¡¯an''s face as he confirmed the puppet was functioning stably.


    After advancing to the True Dan stage, his spiritual sense and magical power had increased significantly. With an abundance of third-rank materials, he had sessfully achieved the level of a third-rank puppet master.


    However, this sess came only after two failed attempts, which had cost him a significant amount of materials.


    The reason he ultimately crafted a rat puppet was simple¡ªhis remaining materials were insufficient.


    Creating heavy defense-type puppets required arge quantity of resources. Third-rank materials were both expensive and rare, and the ones he had painstakingly collected over the past twenty years were almost depleted.


    The rat puppet, being smaller in size and more flexible, consumed fewer materials overall.


    Lan Chang¡¯an had modeled the puppet after the Earth Burrowing Rat, although its capabilities were greatly simplified.


    "Burrow!"


    At Lan Chang''ansmand, the rat puppet dived into the ground, kicking up a cloud of dust.


    Its burrowing technique left noticeable traces behind,cking the seamless natural talent of a real Earth Burrowing Rat.


    After a short while, the rat puppet hurriedly returned, looking disheveled and battered.


    Squeak!


    Hot on its trail, a real Earth Burrowing Rat of simr size chased after it, eyes gleaming with curiosity.


    "Alright, enough fooling around."


    Lan Chang¡¯an waved his hand, recalling the rat puppet.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat hesitated, reluctant to part with its newfound ymate, but eventually withdrew its gaze.


    "Master, can this puppet be mypanion?"


    The Earth Burrowing Rat spoke in a childish, human-like voice.


    "Weren¡¯t you just ying with that third-rank Bear Demon in the ck Fog Mountain Range? Half a year wasn¡¯t enough for you?"


    Lan Chang¡¯an frowned.


    As it turned out, during the six months he had spent searching for a body refinement technique, he had given the Earth Burrowing Rat a long vacation.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had ventured into the ck Fog Mountain Range, where it befriended the mid-third-rank Bear Demon it had met during its breakthrough. Over time, it also became acquainted with several other demonic beasts in the region.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat shook its head, looking aggrieved. Half a year had passed, but it had yet to encounter another rat demon of its own level.


    Rat-type demon beasts were rtively weak in the ck Fog Mountain Range, lingering at the bottom of the food chain. Very few ever grew strong enough to be Great Demons.


    "Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll be returning to Liang Kingdom soon. You¡¯ll see your old friends there."


    Lan Chang¡¯anforted it briefly.


    Hearing this, the Earth Burrowing Rat swallowed nervously, as if reminiscing about some wonderful experiences.


    ¡­


    After sending the Earth Burrowing Rat away, Lan Chang¡¯an proceeded to test the rat puppet¡¯s overall capabilities.


    Its strength was definitely no match for the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Even Lan Chang¡¯an himself, relying solely on his magical power and magical treasures, wouldn¡¯t be able to defeat the Earth Burrowing Rat, which had formed a Half-Step Golden Dan.


    "Its defenses are rtively weak and can¡¯t withstand more than a few strikes from a True Dan cultivator. Although it saved on materials, you get what you pay for."


    "However, its offensive power rivals mine, and it¡¯s quite nimble."


    Overall, Lan Chang¡¯an was satisfied with his first third-rank puppet, as it met his expectations.


    At present, he wasn¡¯tcking in defensive options. Beyond his treasure talismans, he also had the Minor Teleportation Talisman he had acquired from Master Lihuo.


    What he trulycked was offensive firepower in normal circumstances. A nimble rat puppet could enhance his offensive, ambush, and assassination capabilities.


    "Since I¡¯m still in the Core Formation Realm, I should craft more puppet crystals as backup."


    From his storage bag, Lan Chang¡¯an retrieved a pile of spirit stones and began refining third-rank puppet crystals using his puppet techniques.


    Puppet crystals were essential as the energy core for high-ranked puppets.


    They were crafted by using spirit stones as the base material, consuming spiritual sense, and incorporating small amounts of soul-path materials.


    Puppets embedded with third-rank crystals would gain rudimentary intelligence.


    Even without their master¡¯s direct control¡ªor even in their master¡¯s absence¡ªthey could carry out simple tasks such as guarding a cave, patrolling, or pursuing enemies.


    Of course, this "intelligence" wasn¡¯tparable to that of a sentient being. It was more akin to the primitive AI on Earth before Lan Chang¡¯an transmigrated.


    For simple tasks, it was reliable, but for moreplex missions, its performance became far less dependable.


    "I¡¯m running out of third-rank materials. I¡¯ll have to slowly gather more in the future¡­"


    After crafting a batch of puppet crystals, Lan Chang¡¯an was mentally and spiritually exhausted.


    Fortunately, his Evergreen Technique had exceptional recovery capabilities.


    The next day, hepleted his routine of nurturing treasure talismans and skipped his usual cultivation of the Evergreen Technique.


    With the extra time, he focused on practicing the middle-of-the-road body refining technique, Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art.


    Lan Chang¡¯an had no intention of coveting Xiang Jinglong¡¯s Earth Fiend Heaven-Supporting Art.


    From what he had learned, the Earth Fiend Heaven-Supporting Art was a top-tier, primary body refining technique, reminiscent of the ancient Body Cultivation school.


    Practicing it granted unique physical abilities and made the practitioner stronger than most cultivators of the same level.


    However, when reaching the fourth rank, it was the same as advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm, and one would have to face a Heavenly Tribtion.


    Lan Chang¡¯an, as a cultivator of the longevity-focused school, valued living as long as possible. Why would he voluntarily subject himself to an additional Heavenly Tribtion?


    Xiang Jinglong must have abandoned his Fake Dan cultivation and fullymitted to the path of a body cultivator to pursue that technique.


    Lan Chang¡¯an, however, only sought to supplement his main path with body cultivation, not to attain unique physical abilities.


    He simply wanted to strengthen his body and enhance his speed.


    The Cloud Sand Body Refinement Manual and the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art he practiced were, in essence, auxiliary techniques.


    ¡­


    Half a monthter, Lan Chang¡¯an turned 172 years old.


    That day, a surge of water and wood spiritual energy radiated from the deep pond behind his estate.


    Sweeping it with his spiritual sense, Lan Chang¡¯an nodded slightly.


    The Profound Water Turtle had advanced, reaching the mid-second-rank.


    Compared to the Earth Burrowing Rat, its progress was painfully slow, akin to a tortoise. But this was characteristic of Profound Water Turtles, a species known for their longevity.


    In truth, the turtle¡¯s current pace of advancement was already more than twice as fast as others of its kind.


    If not for its slow speed, Lan Chang¡¯an wouldn¡¯t have been able to buy its sickly egg years ago for just a few hundred spirit stones.


    "Counting up, this turtle is only 130 years old," Lan Chang¡¯an mused.


    Normally, it would take a Profound Water Turtle 200 years to reach second-rank.


    Lan Chang''an''s True Dan-level Evergreen mana had nurtured it, allowing it to absorb the essence of time itself.


    The vast difference in cultivation levels meant the turtle would soon enter a rapid growth phase, with the potential to reach third-rank within decades.


    Such a growth rate naturally appears extraordinary, but it is still slower than that of ordinary spiritual beasts.


    For a high-level cultivator like Lan Chang¡¯an, nurturing spirit beasts with unique methods was not a big deal.


    Unless Lan Chang¡¯an personally attained a upper-tier True Dan or a Golden Dan, it was unlikely to attract any unwanted attention.


    Lan Chang¡¯an had already made preparations for such scenarios.


    While the quality of his Core Formation couldn¡¯t be concealed during breakthroughs, there were plenty of methods to hide it afterward.


    Only during intensebat would his true strength potentially be revealed.


    ...


    Three monthster.


    Behind the tranquil Autumnwind Isle, Lan Chang¡¯an had already packed all his belongings.


    "Are the preparationsplete?"


    In the side hall, Lan Chang¡¯an channeled his core energy to brew a pot of steaming tea, pouring two cups mid-air.


    One cup of third-rank spirit tea floated gently into the shadowy corner behind him.


    "Master Lan, everything is in order. I¡¯m ready to transfer to the Liang Kingdom cultivation world to carry out the special mission," replied Xing Peng, dressed in a gray robe with a hood, as he cautiously received the tea cup, clearly ttered by the gesture.


    Lan Chang¡¯an had decided to return to the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    Leaving Xing Peng in Jing Kingdom without supervision posed the risk of him slipping out of control.


    The restrictions Lan Chang¡¯an had imnted back then¡ªusing soul gu techniques¡ªwere nearly impossible to undo for anyone below the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Yet, allowing Xing Peng to operate beyond Lan Chang''ans range of influence still carried potential risks.


    Additionally, Lan Chang¡¯an valued information from the cultivation world and hoped Xing Peng could be transferred to Liang Kingdom.


    As someone with connections, Xing Peng had been coasting along, often shirking duties and leveraging his cousin¡ªShadow Hall Chief¡ªto arrange his reassignment to Liang Kingdom under the guise of a "special mission."


    And this so-called "special mission"? The target was none other than Lan Chang¡¯an himself.


    After advancing to the Core Formation Realm , Lan Chang¡¯an''s ranking on the Unseen Gate¡¯s priority list had significantly risen.


    As a good old loose cultivator, Lan Chang¡¯an had formed ties with numerous cultivators from Liang Kingdom, including a third-rank formation master and the Law Enforcement Elder of Jin Yun Valley.


    To ensure his transfer was approved, Xing Peng reported some of Lan Chang''ans hidden information to Unseen Gate.


    For instance, he disclosed that Lan Chang¡¯an had already be a third-rank grand talisman master.


    He also confirmed that Lan Chang¡¯an had acquired Core Formation opportunities from an ancient ruin, along with the secret techniques for nurturing his Profound Water Turtle.


    "When you get to Liang Kingdom, it won¡¯t be your cousin¡¯s territory anymore. Be more cautious in your actions going forward," Lan Chang¡¯an advised.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Master Lan," Xing Peng replied with a casual tone. "My cousin is one of Unseen Gate¡¯s rising stars. In a few years, he¡¯s likely to be the branch chief for Jing Kingdom. The Liang Kingdom branch should show me some leeway out of respect for him."


    "That''s good," Lan Chang¡¯an nodded, satisfied. He then added, "If things settle down in a few years, I might consider giving you a Core Reformation opportunity."


    "Thank you for your kindness, Master Lan!"


    Xing Peng¡¯s face lit up with gratitude as he bowed deeply.


    Although he harbored some doubts about Lan Chang''ans ability to help him reform his Core, he still clung to a sliver of hope.


    After all, Lan Chang¡¯an had obtained the Core Formation opportunity in an ancient ruin¡ªwho¡¯s to say he didn¡¯t also find a method for Core Reformation?


    Moreover, as Xing Peng spent more time around Lan Chang¡¯an, he realized that this seemingly ordinary True Dan cultivator was anything but ordinary.


    To form a True Dan at the age of one hundred and seventy was already a minor miracle that was difficult for ordinary people to achieve, and even his pet had formed a True Dan!


    Xing Peng, being over 30 years younger than Lan Chang¡¯an and of decent aptitude, theoretically there was hope on the path of Core Reformation.


    "Go now," Lan Chang¡¯an waved his hand, watching as Xing Peng merged into the shadows and vanished from the side hall.


    Lan Chang¡¯an had already considered that if he truly possessed the ability to assist others in reforming their Cores, it would allow him to easily cultivate and control loyal subordinates in the future.


    In the cultivation world, True Dan cultivators were rare, but there was no shortage of Fake Dan practitioners.


    Still, helping others reform a core and reforming one for himself were two entirely different matters.


    Both forming the Core and reforming the Core were primarily reliant on the practitioner¡¯s efforts, with external assistance ying only a secondary role.


    "If this person proves to be loyal, I might give him a chance as a test subject in the future," Lan Chang¡¯an made up his mind.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang¡¯an left behind a letter on Autumnwind Isle and departed quietly.


    He deliberately avoided bidding farewell to Xia Hongyu, Xia Mingqu, Xia Shenn, and the others, choosing to forgo any emotional goodbyes.


    For Lan Chang¡¯an, Jing Kingdom was merely a temporary stopover, unlike the strong ties he felt to his homnd in Liang Kingdom.


    There was nothing here worth lingering over.


    Even the seed that had once been sown, Xia Wenyue, had joined the Proud Moon Pce in Feng Kingdom.


    ...


    Above the clouds, in the Nine Fiery Heavens...


    "For thirty years, I¡¯ve lived in exile, hidden far from home.


    Others mock me as the coward Chang¡¯an.


    But with a True Dan swallowed into my belly,


    Who dares to say the pursuit of longevity is mere folly?"


    A handsome man dressed in white robes, exuding a transcendent air, stood on a greenish-gray light streak. Hands sped behind his back, his bright, star-like eyes surveyed the mountains and spiritual veins of Jing Kingdom below.


    The Nine Fiery Heavens, also known as the Ninefold Firmament, was a realm where only high-level cultivators could fly.


    Here, the gales were ferocious, capable of tearing Foundation Establishment cultivators to shreds within moments.


    Lan Chang¡¯an dared to fly only within the lower threeyers of the Nine Fiery Heavens.


    High-level cultivators preferred flying in this realm due to a legend: the higher one ascended, the greater the chance of encountering rare heavenly treasures.


    In his past life, Lan Chang¡¯an had only ever flown within the lower threeyers. Throughout his lifetime of travel, the heavenly materials he had obtained could be counted on one hand.


    The middle threeyers were considered forbidden zones belonging only to Nascent Soul True Monarchs, offering a higher chance of encountering heavenly treasures.


    Theoretically, even in the lower threeyers, with enough luck, one could encounter fourth or fifth ranked heavenly treasures.


    Lan Chang¡¯an had heard rumors in his previous life of an ordinary True Dan cultivator who, by sheer luck, stumbled upon a spiritual treasure-grade spirit item in the Nine Fiery Heavens, forever altering their cultivation destiny.


    ...


    In just a single day, Lan Chang¡¯an reached the border of the cultivation world of Jing Kingdom.


    Beyondy vast stretches of wastnd separating Jing and Liang Kingdoms¡ªareas consisting mostly of low-spiritual or barrennds, with some spiritual chasms scattered throughout.


    What had once been a perilous and arduous journey for him was now almost trivial.


    The flying speed of a True Dan expert far surpassed that of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The loose cultivators and robbers along the way were no more than ants in his eyes.


    Even areas with spiritual null zones only slightly slowed Lan Chang''ans flight.


    The boundless power of a True Dan cultivator¡¯s spiritual power resembled an unfathomable abyss.


    In smaller spiritual null zones, he didn¡¯t even need to stop or rest to replenish his energy.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    Near a river in the border wastnds, two bloodcurdling screams pierced the air.


    An old man and a young girl in a pink dressy motionless in pools of their own blood.


    ¡°Poison and seduction? Such petty tricks!¡±


    A young man in blue robes at thete Foundation Establishment stage sneered as he coughed lightly, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.


    sh! sh!


    Narrowing his eyes, Nie Yuan controlled his supreme-grade flying sword, driving it ruthlessly into the bodies of the old man and the girl several more times to ensure their deaths.


    Moments earlier, he had battled the pair, and histe Foundation Establishment cultivation had prevailed against their early and middle Foundation Establishment cultivation, but he still sustained a minor injury.


    This left Nie Yuan dissatisfied. After all, he was formerly from a prestigious sect.


    Just as he wiped the blood from his sword, a calm and measured voice drifted from above:


    "Young friend, your spiritual power is refined, your aptitude extraordinary, and your future bright. Why have you fallen to the life of a bandit, preying on others in this destend?"


    "Who¡¯s there!?"


    Nie Yuan¡¯s heart skipped a beat as he looked up to see a inly dressed man descending from the sky.


    The man seemed to materialize out of nowhere, his cultivation unfathomable.


    "Me? I am merely someone upholding justice."


    Hovering above, the in-clothed man raised his palm and gently pressed downward.


    A vast, greenish-blue whirlwind hand materialized in the air, expanding within Nie Yuan¡¯s vision. The very atmosphere around him grew as heavy as a mountain.


    "True Dan mana! Senior, spare me!"


    The ground beneath Nie Yuan''s feet copsed, and his expression turned to terror. He attempted to dodge, but his body felt as though it were mired in quicksand.


    It wasn¡¯t that his movements had slowed significantly¡ªrather, the massive hand above was far too fast, bearing down on him with suffocating pressure.


    Crash!


    Nie Yuan¡¯s protective shield shattered instantly. His hastily summoned supreme-grade magical weapon dimmed and broke apart as it fell to the ground.


    In the next instant, his world plunged into darkness.


    ...


    "Nie Yuan... an inner disciple of the me Departing Pce, fallen to banditry to amass resources for Core Formation¡­"


    "Hmm, his background isn¡¯t bad."


    Standing over the corpse, Lan Chang¡¯an ced his hand on Nie Yuan¡¯s head, extracting fragments of the dying man¡¯s soul. From these fading memories, he pieced together a general understanding of Nie Yuan¡¯s identity.


    This man hadmitted countless atrocities in the border wastnds, leaving a trail of bodies in his wake.


    Lan Chang¡¯an felt no remorse for killing him.


    After finishing the soul-searching, Lan Chang¡¯an collected Nie Yuan¡¯s essence blood and the remnants of his soul''s energy, sealing them in two separate vials.


    With these, he couldter use his Hundred Illusions Mask to perfectly mimic Nie Yuan¡¯s identity, even down to his spiritual power aura.


    "Bullying weaklings is still the easiest!"


    Lan Chang¡¯an chuckled lightly, waving his hand to clear the scene and erase all traces.


    Throughout the entire process, his spiritual sense swept the surroundings to ensure there were no witnesses.


    Nie Yuan was not the firstte Foundation Establishment cultivator Lan Chang¡¯an had killed on his journey.


    ¡°A few more identities for Core Formation won¡¯t hurt.¡±


    ...


    Flying another thousand or two li, a massive third-rank spirit ship appeared on the horizon.


    Lan Chang¡¯an found it somewhat familiar.


    "Isn¡¯t that a cross-border spirit ship from the Jiuchen Merchant Association?*"


    After a moment of recollection, Lan Chang¡¯an confirmed his suspicion.


    Whether it was the exact same ship he had traveled on years ago remained uncertain, but the design and the guild¡¯s banner matched.


    He recalled his past experience vividly. Back then, he and others were crammed into the cargo hold below the deck, forced to pay exorbitant fees in spirit stones just to upgrade to a cramped guest room, all while being treated as goods to be transported.


    ...


    On the spirit ship.


    "A True Dan cultivator! Are theying for us?"


    The ship¡¯s steward, along with hundreds of cultivators aboard, were ovee with anxiety.


    True Dan cultivators usually traveled through the Ninefold Firmament, rarely interacting with merchant spirit ships. Yet the approaching True Dan cultivator was unmistakably heading straight for their vessel.


    "Wait! That looks like¡­ ¡®Evergreen Immortal¡¯!"


    "¡®Evergreen Immortal¡¯? The one who¡­¡±


    As the elegant and refined white-robed man came into view, several cultivators aboard the ship recognized him.


    The steward, a gray-haired elder with Fake Dan cultivation, let out a sigh of relief.


    Evergreen Immortal was a famous True Dan cultivator, known for his inspirational story and upright character. He was a model of virtue and far from the likes of a vicious rogue cultivator.


    "I am Fei Tang, steward of the Jiuchen Merchant Association and person in charge of this vessel. Evergreen Immortal, it is an honor to have you here. How may we assist you?"


    The elderly steward flew out to greet Lan Chang¡¯an, bowing respectfully.


    Lan Chang¡¯an returned the gesture with equal politeness, smiling as he said:


    "In my younger days, I was blessed by the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s ¡®generosity.¡¯ It allowed me to escape the chaos of the war-torn cultivation world and sneak into Jing Kingdom. By sheer luck, I eventually managed to form my Core.


    "Seeing this spirit ship again stirs up old memories. I simply wish to rest aboard for half a day."


    Hearing this, the cultivators aboard the spirit ship were enlightened.


    So, Evergreen Immortal had such a difficult past! It added a touch of legend to his already admirable story.


    Only Fei Tang, the steward, showed a subtle change in expression, faintly guessing at the hidden implications.


    "Evergreen Immortal honors us with his presence. We happen to have a vacant vip cabin aboard. Please,e this way."


    The guild staff and cultivators weed Lan Chang¡¯an aboard with the utmost courtesy, escorting him to the finest amodations on the uppermost deck.


    While there hadn¡¯t been any avable vip rooms initially, they quickly vacated one to amodate him.


    ...


    In the premium suite.


    "So, this is the vip cabin on a cross-country spirit ship? The very type of room that Young Master Wang once upied?"


    Lan Chang¡¯an stood inside the luxurious suite, which spanned over a hundred square meters¡ªa stark contrast to the cramped room he had once been forced to pay for.


    The suite even came with personal attendants and maids to cater to his every need. The level of service matched that of a high-end inn in a major Immortal City.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    Lan Chang¡¯an departed, heading toward the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world under the watchful eyes of the ship¡¯s cultivators.


    "Evergreen Immortal¡¯s character is exemry. He stayed only as long as he promised and even paid for his stay."


    "Such an open-hearted and humble person! He even nodded in acknowledgment when I greeted him from afar."


    While waves of praise and admiration spread among the ship¡¯s passengers, Fei Tang, the steward, wore a bitter smile.


    During those few hours, the guild had pampered Evergreen Immortal to the fullest¡ªrare spirit tea, exquisite food, fine wine, and even beautiful attendants to apany him.


    Moreover, Fei Tang had personally gifted him 10,000 spirit stones and a VIP token of the merchant guild.


    Indeed, Evergreen Immortal had paid for the room, but it didn¡¯te close to the guild¡¯s expenses.


    ...


    One dayter.


    Lan Chang¡¯an finally left the border wastnds.


    The familiar aura of Liang Kingdom filled his senses, stirring a mix of nostalgia and calm.


    Looking back on his journey, the trials and tribtions of the past seemed trivial in hindsight.


    Even the unpleasant treatment aboard the Jiuchen Merchant Association¡¯s spirit ship had once been etched in his memory, but now it was no more than a passing thought.


    He wasn''t a petty person. His time aboard the ship had been spent rxing, and he didn''t make things difficult for the Jiuchen Merchant Association.


    ...


    Upon entering Liang Kingdom, Lan Chang¡¯an slowed his pace, switching to riding his Profound Water Turtle to take in the changes across thend.


    However, as he crossed the border, he sensed an unusual tension in the air.


    The patrol teams of sect cultivators he encountered were filled with a murderous aura, their vignce unnervingly high.


    After verifying Lan Chang''ans identity and his True Dan cultivation, these patrol cultivators¡ªinitially shocked¡ªquickly bowed respectfully and answered his inquiries.


    "The Six Demonic Sects have massed their armies at the Yan Kingdom border¡­"


    "The Endless Pce of Feng Kingdom, led by Chu Tianfeng, has called upon nearby sects to confront the demonic forces."


    Lan Chang''an received a piece of shocking news, though he had long anticipated this day.


    Currently, the Feng Kingdom and the demonic faction stand on the brink of war, tension so palpable it feels like drawn swords and notched arrows.


    In addition:


    From the reactions of the sect''s patrolling cultivators, Lan Chang''an realized they were unaware of his breakthrough to Core Formation.


    The upper echelons of Liang Kingdom surely knew of his advancement, but in the broader cultivation world, spanning across kingdoms, such news oftengged behind, especially among the lower ranks ofmon cultivators.


    It is precisely this kind of information disparity that keeps ordinary cultivators forever trailing behind those at the top.


    ¡°The closest ce to the border where I know someone is the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain¡­¡±


    Seated atop the broad back of the Profound Water Turtle, Lan Chang''an flew through the waves, heading in a certain direction.


    The Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain was led by Li Congren, the most outstanding grandson of Li Erqing.


    Thirty years ago, when Lan Chang''an fled to Jing Kingdom aboard an cross-border spirit ship, it was thanks to Li Congren''s connections that the journey was made possible.


    Phew not toote


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 264: Seas Turning Into Mulberry Fields

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    In the northwest of Liang Kingdomy a chain of snowy, fragrant mountains¡ªthe Snow Plum Mountain Spirit Vein. After years of nurturing, the spirit vein of Snow Plum Mountain had advanced to high-grade second rank.


    The family residing on Snow Plum Mountain boasted three Foundation Establishment cultivators, not including their guest cultivators and honorary elders.


    That night, the family head''s study was softly illuminated.


    ¡°The Six Demonic Sects are pressing in. The sect is mobilizing forces, conscripting cultivators from all over to the frontlines. Sigh¡­ This era hasn¡¯t been peaceful for long, and it¡¯s plunging into chaos again...¡±


    Li Congren finished reviewing a few documents, his face clouded with worry as he sighed softly.


    It had only been a little over a decade since the war over the northern migration of the Golden Sun Sect had ended.


    The Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain had been steadily developing during these years. However, in recent times, their momentum seemed to have hit a bottleneck.


    Before they could ovee their current predicament, they now faced an era of chaos brought on by the invasion of the demonic path.¡°Husband, you need not worry too much. The frontlines haven¡¯t started fighting yet, and in the short term, the war might not even erupt. Besides, Liang Kingdom is situated far behind the battlefield, and our Snow Plum Mountain is in the northern part of Liang Kingdom...¡±


    His wife, Wu Yue, with gentle eyes and a calm demeanor, poured another cup of spiritual tea for her husband.


    Wu Yue had ordinary features and slightly darker skin, but her bright eyes and snow-white teeth made her seem vibrant. Her mid-Foundation Establishment cultivation level made her appear to be in her early thirties.


    Li Congren pondered deeply and said, ¡°Even if the demonic path hasn¡¯t yet reached us, its invasion has already started affecting the rear lines. Snow Plum Mountain must heighten its vignce and defense, and our n¡¯s cultivators should avoid wandering out alone as much as possible.¡±


    The conscription ofrge numbers of cultivators by the sect had left the rearcking in enforcers. The areas near the border were already descending intowlessness.


    ¡°What you say is true, Husband. Recently, prices have soared, and those lurking rogue cultivators have be active again.


    ¡°If the situation grows chaotic, who knows if we can even hold on to the ¡®Chang¡¯an Mines¡¯ that we¡¯ve worked so hard to establish over the years...¡±


    At this, Wu Yue¡¯s face filled with worry.


    While her husband¡¯s concerns were for the long-term, she was more concerned about the plight near at hand.


    ¡°If we can hold the Chang¡¯an Mines, we will. But if we can¡¯t, we¡¯ll sell our share to the Dongmen Family at a discounted price.¡±


    Li Congren¡¯s expression revealed his reluctance, but he had no choice but to make this difficult decision.


    In an era of turmoil, sacrifices were inevitable.


    Li Congren¡¯s strategy was clear¡ªprioritize saving lives over holding onto assets.


    If they stubbornly held onto the Chang¡¯an Mines, there would inevitably be casualties, possibly even the deaths of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Adding to that, the demonic invasion would likely force the sect to conscript more of the family¡¯s cultivators, which would only make things worse.


    ¡°Husband, if that rumor is true¡­ perhaps we wouldn¡¯t need to fear the Dongmen Family so much,¡± Wu Yue said, her bright eyes shimmering with a trace of hope. ?


    The Dongmen Family was now one of the Top Ten Families of the Liang Kingdom, having migrated north along with the Golden Sun Sect to take over the territory previously held by the ¡°Ten Thousand Swords Zhuo Family.¡±


    Decades ago, the Liang Kingdom had seven great families. Today, only four remained, while six new families had risen, all originating from Feng Kingdom.


    The Liang Kingdomcked sufficient high-quality spirit veins, so some sects and ns from Feng Kingdom had transnted spirit veins to this region.


    However, a significant portion of the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s faction had deemed the Liang Kingdom too barren and had chosen not to relocate.


    Fortunately, the Beast Taming Zhou Family showed some favor to Snow Plum Mountain''s Li Family, allowing them some leverage in dealing with the Dongmen Family.


    ¡°That rumor... it hasn¡¯t been fully confirmed yet. Some cultivators in the Liang Kingdom are questioning its authenticity,¡± Li Congren murmured, his tone heavy with doubt.


    ¡°Even if it¡¯s true, a distant spring can¡¯t quench immediate thirst. No one knows when that elder will return. Normally, a genuine Core Formation cultivator would spend years stabilizing their foundation and refining their magical treasure before venturing out again.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Husband. With Grandfather Lan¡¯s style, it might be ten years or even longer before he¡¯d consider leaving seclusion.¡±


    Wu Yue couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly, letting go of her unrealistic hopes.


    As for going to the Jing Kingdom to seek aid? Grandfather Lan did not owe them anything.


    When he had escaped to Jing Kingdom via Snow Plum Mountain¡¯s Li Family all those years ago, Grandfather Lan had generously gifted them talismans and puppets as payment¡ªfar more than adequatepensation.


    In fact, the Li Family had greatly benefited from his aid.


    Why did Grandfather Lan have such a good reputation?


    Because he never left debts unpaid. To old friends and their descendants, he always offered a helping hand and instructions when appropriate.


    ...


    Suddenly, sharp, hurried squeaks of a spirit rat rang out.


    Li Congren, holding Wu Yue as they were about to return to their main room to rest, looked towards the door.


    A sleek, pale-golden Treasure-Seeking Rat dashed in from outside, visibly flustered.


    Its gem-like, beautiful eyes were filled with terror, evoking a sense of pity.


    ¡°Little Gold, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Wu Yue¡¯s face showed her confusion. The Treasure-Seeking Rat had cultivation nearing thete second rank, its sense of smell of keen, and excellent survival skills.


    In the surrounding region, there were few living beings that were a threat it. For it to be this rmed was unprecedented in decades.


    Ten breaths passed.


    The terror on the Treasure-Seeking Rat¡¯s face grew more pronounced as it hid between Li Congren and Wu Yue, its body trembling uncontrobly.


    ...


    Squeak!


    Suddenly, a clear, joyful squeak echoed in the room.


    Li Congren and Wu Yue¡¯s expressions changed dramatically.


    A powerful rat demon had infiltrated the heart of Snow Plum Mountain without their knowledge.


    This was a shocking feat, considering Li Congren was at thete Foundation Establishment stage and their family grounds were protected by alert formations.


    Even a peak second-rank demon beast shouldn¡¯t have been able to achieve this.


    Buzz!


    A faint yellow glow emerged from the floor, revealing a muscr, robust Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Its fur was an orange-yellow shade, with a tuft of purple hair rising atop its head. Its sleek and powerful form resembled that of a panther.


    ¡°An Earth Burrowing Rat?¡±


    ¡°Grandfather Lan¡¯s spiritual pet?¡±


    Li Congren and Wu Yue were momentarily stunned, exchanging nces filled with both delight and doubt.


    How could Grandfather Lan¡¯s spirit rat appear alone at the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain?


    While they were still caught in their surprise, the Treasure-Seeking Rat let out a crisp squeak that sounded almost mournful. Its beautiful eyes were filled with awe and submission as it tried to curry favor.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat grabbed the Treasure-Seeking Rat by its waist and began walking towards the door, step by step.


    ¡°Little Gold!¡±


    Li Congren and Wu Yue called out with concern, remembering vividly how Little Gold had been bullied by the Earth Burrowing Rat in the past.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat grinned, its reddish-brown eyes ncing back at the couple with a look that seemed to say, ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    The moment its gaze locked with theirs, a chill crept through their hearts. An indescribable sense of dread rose from the soles of their feet, spreading throughout their bodies.


    Squeak-squeak!


    The Treasure-Seeking Rat nodded furiously, forcing a smile as it followed the Earth Burrowing Rat out of the room, never once looking back at its owners.


    ¡°This rat demon¡­¡±


    Sweat trickled down Li Congren and Wu Yue¡¯s foreheads as they exchanged uncertain nces.


    The pressure they had felt just now was like an illusion, but it was utterly terrifying.


    ¡°Grandfather Lan¡¯s Earth Burrowing Rat reached peak second-rank over thirty years ago. Now, its aura is unfathomable and even more fearsome.


    ¡°Could it be¡­¡±


    A wild thought crept into their minds.


    By logic, the lifespan of a second-rank demon beast wasparable to a human Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    If its cultivation hadn¡¯t progressed, it should have already entered old age. There was no way it could still appear so vigorous and imposing.


    ¡°Could it be that this Earth Burrowing Rat has already advanced to the Fake Dan stage?¡±


    The couple couldn¡¯t help but specte.


    If the rumors about Grandfather Lan were true, then the Earth Burrowing Rat achieving the Fake Dan stage would hardly be surprising.


    ¡°If the Earth Burrowing Rat is here at Snow Plum Mountain, then Grandfather Lan must be nearby!¡±


    Li Congren and Wu Yue¡¯s faces lit up with joy as hope surged in their hearts.


    That night, the two hurried to the western gate of their family grounds, waiting quietly.


    It was destined to be a long, agonizing night.


    Even by thete hours, the figure they were eagerly anticipating never appeared.


    Their unusual behavior began to draw the attention of some n members.


    ¡°Father, Mother, is there some esteemed guest arriving at Snow Plum Mountain that requires both of you to wait herete into the night?¡±


    The speaker was their eldest son, a chubby-faced middle-aged man at the peak of Qi-Refining stage, tasked with managing the family''s treasury.


    ¡°And besides, who would visit sote at night...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask too much!¡±


    Li Congren sternly cut him off, his face tense.


    ...


    To the northeast of Snow Plum Mountain stood a heavily guarded,rge-scale manor nestled deep within a mountain formation and adjacent to a minor branch of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    On the southern side of the manor, there was a medium-sized marketce bustling with activity.


    This region was ruled without question by the Beast Taming Zhou Family, the supreme force in the area.


    As the hour of Chou (roughly 1-3 AM) deepened the night, a soft, luminous glow emanated from a refined and elegant chamber within the Zhou Family. It was none other than the personal abode of the Zhou Family¡¯s revered Grand Elder, Zhou Qingxuan.


    Inside this ssical yet graceful "boudoir," the light from a jewel-likemp bathed the room in a gentle shimmer.


    Zhou Qingxuan, the high and mighty Grand Elder of the Zhou Family, was currently reclining halfway on her ivory bed. Her delicate face bore a faint blush, her hair disheveled and her hairpins askew. The faint fragrance of her pale-yellow dress, silk stockings, and embroidered shoes lingered in the air, though the garments were scattered haphazardly by the bedside.


    From beneath a silk quilt, a slender, smooth leg peeked out, its fairplexion tinged with a faint rosy glow.


    ¡°Qingxuan, do you truly not wish to dissolve the soul gu restriction in your sea of consciousness?¡±


    After a long silence, a gentle male voice sounded from the bed.


    ¡°If the soul gu curse is lifted, will the rtionship between you and me be a thing of the past? If that¡¯s the case, Qingxuan would rather remain under Big Brother Lan¡¯s control forever. This way, Big Brother Lan can truly trust Qingxuan.¡±


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s exquisite formy bare, entwined in Lan Chang''an¡¯s embrace. A coy smile graced her lips.


    Her appearance had hardly changed over the years¡ªher bright, lively eyes and wless, radiantplexion remained as captivating as ever. However, her figure was now slightly more voluptuous, her curves resembling a finely sculpted baster statue.


    ¡°You¡¯re now the Grand Elder of the Zhou Family, a position of immense dignity and authority. How can you lower yourself to be nothing more than a nameless woman beneath me?¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled wryly.


    Years ago, due to the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, he and Zhou Qingxuan had entered into an agreement.


    At that time, Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation was limited, and he dared not risk offending the Beast Taming Zhou Family. Killing Zhou Qingxuan would have left an obvious trail and


    invited inevitable pursuit.


    To save her own life, Zhou Qingxuan had sworn a heart demon oath and allowed Lan Chang''an to imnt a gu worm restriction in her sea of consciousness, rendering her fate entirely in his hands.


    For a period of time, their rtionship was akin to that of master and servant. Zhou Qingxuan attended to Lan Chang''an meticulously, even offering him resources from her own pockets.


    It was during this time that Lan Chang''an¡¯s Earth Burrowing Rat had the opportunity to enter the Zhou Family¡¯s Blood Spirit Pool, slightly improving its bloodline quality.


    To give her a shred of hope, Lan Chang''an had once promised that if he sessfully formed his core in the future, he would try to help her dissolve the gu worm restriction in her sea of consciousness.


    The soul gu restriction was exceptionally intricate, and it wasn¡¯t until Lan Chang''an delved into the purer memory fragments of the Soul gu that heprehended its principles. Only after achieving the Core Formation stage would he have the ability to resolve it.


    Later, during his time in the Jing Kingdom, he had even incorporated aspects of the gu worm restriction into the techniques he used to imnt curses in others, such as Xing Peng.


    Now, having returned to Liang Kingdom, Lan Chang''an had originally nned to first visit Snow Plum Mountain''s Li Family. However, given that it was the middle of the night, he deemed it an inappropriate time for a formal visit.


    As for his rtionship with Zhou Qingxuan, it was not something that could endure the scrutiny of daylight. The secrecy of the night provided a more suitable backdrop for their interaction.


    Lan Chang''an nned to resolve the gu worm restriction and sever the karmic ties between them at dawn.


    Unexpectedly, after confirming that Lan Chang''an had attained True Dan, Zhou Qingxuan suddenly reneged on their original agreement, expressing her desire to maintain the status quo.


    ¡°Big Brother Lan, does your reluctance to give me a name mean you have no intention of acknowledging Qingxuan¡¯s status?¡±


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s gaze was enchanting, her pink lips glistening with moisture. Her words carried a hint of grievance mixed with longing.


    ¡°I¡¯m more interested in breaking the gu worm restriction,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a faint smile as he rose from the bed and began to dress.


    ¡°Big Brother Lan, even if you won¡¯t grant Qingxuan an official title, can¡¯t you at least openly visit the Zhou Family during the day as a guest?¡±


    Zhou Qingxuan, her radiant smile captivating, leaned against Lan Chang''an¡¯s back. Her bare body embraced his as she pleaded softly.


    ¡°Tomorrow, I¡¯m heading to the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain,¡± Lan Chang''an declined tactfully.


    He had no desire to entangle himself further with the Zhou Family.


    The Zhou Family, one of the top ten families in the Liang Kingdom, was no ordinary cultivation force. Moreover, Zhou Qingxuan was cunning and unpredictable. If his first stop upon returning to Liang Kingdom was as a guest of the Zhou Family, it would be easy for her to use it to her advantage.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to say more. Your Zhou Family has a mighty third-rank Great Demon that has been passed down for many years¡ªwhy would you need someone like me to add to your prestige?¡±


    Lan Chang''an waved his hand, rejecting Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s repeated tender words of pleading.


    Her expression turned aggrieved, tears welling up in her eyes as if she might cry at any moment.


    Yet Lan Chang''an remained unmoved. Both of them were over a century old¡ªhow could he still be swayed by such surface-level disys?


    ¡°Big Brother Lan, since tomorrow doesn¡¯t belong to Qingxuan, this long night is only halfway through. Allow Qingxuan to host you properly and wash away the dust of your travels.¡±


    Seeing that Lan Chang''an was about to leave, Zhou Qingxuan bit her lips, her voice soft and alluring as she gently pulled him toward the bathing chamber.


    ...


    By the time the hour of Yin (roughly 3-5 AM) arrived, the two had bathed and changed into fresh clothes.


    Lan Chang''an now wore a spotless white robe, while Zhou Qingxuan was dressed impably in a pale-yellow gown, her appearance as pristine as if untouched by the events of the night.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhou, I¡¯ll ask you onest time. Are you truly unwilling to dissolve the gu worm restriction in your sea of consciousness?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. Before Big Brother Lan left for Jing Kingdom, you already told me how to stabilize the restriction. Since there¡¯s no threat to my life, Qingxuan has long grown ustomed to it,¡± Zhou Qingxuan replied sweetly, dimples forming as she smiled.


    ¡°Very well.¡±


    Before her voice had even faded, Lan Chang''an¡¯s figure had already vanished from the room.


    Zhou Qingxuan froze briefly, her expression quickly turning to one of frustration as her chest heaved in anger.


    Tonight, she had spared no effort in attending to Lan Chang''an. From yful intimacy to tender words, she had given everything.


    And yet, this man remained cold and unyielding, leaving without giving her any promise.


    ¡°Forget it. At least after this, my life is no longer in danger,¡± Zhou Qingxuan sighed inwardly.


    Her understanding of Lan Chang''an deepened. She knew he was far from an ordinary Core Formation cultivator.


    Having once survived the possession of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu and earned a reputation as an elder Core Formation cultivator of advanced age, his origins must surely be extraordinary.


    Zhou Qingxuan feared that if the gu worm restriction were removed, leaving only her heart demon oath to restrain her, Lan Chang''an might feel uneasy.


    In that case, the possibility of him silencing her permanently would be all too real.


    ...


    Under the cover of night.


    Lan Chang''an flew into the skies of the Nine Fiery Heavens and quickly left the territory of the Beast Taming Zhou Family.


    ¡°The Gu worm restriction left within this woman¡¯s sea of consciousness... that is not a bad oue,¡± Lan Chang''an murmured to himself thoughtfully.


    First, leaving the Gu worm restriction in ce might one day attract a Soul gu host.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s Nine Seal Stele had great demand for this type of nourishment. It was the perfect nemesis of the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, making him fearless of soul-possession attempts.


    With this, Zhou Qingxuan became an ideal bait.


    Second, during his idle time, Lan Chang''an could study the Gu worm restriction left in Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sea of consciousness, improving his own unique restriction techniques.


    Third, having the Gu worm restriction in ce made him feel more secure about Zhou Qingxuan.


    In fact, even if Lan Chang''an had the ability topletely dissolve the Gu worm restriction, he would still leave some contingency in ce rather than fully resolve it in one go.


    At the very least, it would have to be after the Core Reformation.


    ...


    An hourter.


    The snowy silhouette of Snow Plum Mountain emerged into Lan Chang''an¡¯s field of vision.


    Before the grand gates of the Li Family¡¯s ancestral grounds, the couple Li Congren and Wu Yue stood, their expressions weary from standing through the entire night.


    At that moment, the two sensed an unusual fluctuation in spiritual energy and instinctively raised their heads.


    Beneath the morning¡¯s rosy dawn, an enormous dark-green tortoise broke through the waves and soared across the air.


    Upon the wide back of the tortoise sat a man in white robes, calm and refined, as gentle as jade and exuding an air of serenity.


    ¡°Grandfather Lan!¡±


    Li Congren and Wu Yue¡¯s faces lit up in shock and delight, rushing forward to greet him.


    ¡°Greetings, Grandfather Lan!¡±


    ¡°Congrattions, Grandfather Lan, on achieving the might of the Core Formation Realm and returning to thend of Liang!¡±


    The couple, along with their direct descendants, stepped forward to pay their respects.


    Li Congren and Wu Yue bowed deeply, while the younger generation behind them fell to their knees in full prostration.


    Li Congren, being of a junior generation, could be considered Lan Chang''an¡¯s grandson in terms of familial hierarchy.


    As for his descendants, it would not have been inappropriate for them to address Lan Chang''an as "Old Ancestor."


    ¡°Rise, all of you!¡±


    With a wave of his sleeve, Lan Chang''an gestured for them to stand, making no effort to hide the profound power of his True Dan cultivation.


    Sitting atop the great tortoise, his demeanor was warm and amicable as he admonished,


    ¡°¡®True Dan,¡¯ is merely a minor achievement, hardly deserving of such lofty words like ¡®mighty.¡¯ On the path of cultivation, one must remain grounded and avoid indulging in such superficial airs.¡±


    ¡°We humbly ept Grandfather Lan¡¯s teachings!¡±


    ¡°We humbly follow the Immortal''s teachings!¡±


    The cultivators of the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain, sensing the ocean-like depth of the Core Formation Immortal''s mana, responded in unison.


    Li Congren¡¯s old face flushed red; after all, it had been he who took the lead in shouting out this exaggerated praise.


    It wasn¡¯t entirely out of a desire to tter.


    In the eyes of low- and mid-level cultivators, a True Dan cultivator¡ªan authentic Core Formation Immortal¡ªhad indeed stepped into the ranks of high-ranking cultivators, capable of destroying mountains and cities with a mere wave of their hand.


    ¡­


    Apanied by Li Congren and other key members of the Li Family, Lan Chang''an took the seat of honor in the main hall.


    Lan Chang''an casually studied Li Congren.


    Thirty years had passed, and Li Congren had cultivated to thete stage of the Foundation Establishment realm, now appearing to be in his middle years.


    His facial features faintly bore a resemnce to the youthful days of Li Ergou, though his visage was somewhat more refined.


    After some conversation, Lan Chang''an gained a clearer understanding of the situation within the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain.


    The Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain currently had three Foundation Establishment cultivators within its ranks.


    Besides Li Congren and his wife, there was also a younger nephew of Li Congren¡¯s generation who had advanced to the Foundation Establishment Realm over a decade ago.


    In addition, the family also had ate-stage Foundation Establishment honorary elder who had a life-and-death bond with Li Congren. That elder was also the elder brother of Li Congren¡¯s wife, Wu Yue.


    ¡°Why are the other two Foundation Establishment cultivators not here?¡± Lan Chang''an asked casually.


    ¡°Grandfather Lan,¡± Li Congren replied respectfully, ¡°the two of them are currently stationed at the Chang''an Mines.¡±


    ¡°Chang''an Mines?¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze briefly flickered toward the couple.


    Li Congren, looking somewhat embarrassed, exined, ¡°The Chang''an Mines is a mining site we unearthed and developed a decade ago. It contains a fair amount of first- and second-rank raw ores, though their distribution is uneven, making extraction somewhat difficult¡­¡±


    Wu Yue, maintaining a respectful demeanor, added from the side:


    ¡°At the start of its development, the Chang''an Mines attracted the attention of several surrounding powers. To ensure the mine could be safely exploited, we named it Chang¡¯an¡ªsymbolizingsting peace and stability.¡±


    ¡°Additionally, we sold 30% of the mining rights at a low price to the Beast Taming Zhou Family, securing their protection to fend off the covetous eyes of the Dongmen Family.¡±


    ¡°The Dongmen Family¡ªis that the one that migrated from Feng Kingdom?¡± Lan Chang''an asked with a hint of recognition.


    Though he had been away for many years, he still retained a general understanding of the situation in Liang Kingdom.


    The Liang Kingdom of today,pared to thirty years ago when he left, is like the seas turning into mulberry fields and the heavens and earth being overturned.


    The ruling of the me Departing Pce had been overthrown, and the Golden Sun Sect had risen to take control of the cultivation world.


    The cultivation forces of the Liang Kingdom had beenpletely reshuffled.


    The four major sects that once existed below the Nascent Soul-level powers had be six.


    The seven great families had expanded to ten.


    Many immortal cities, market towns, and small torge families scattered across the Liang Kingdom had changed hands.


    At the same time, the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world had relocated or strengthened numerous spiritual veins, resulting in a noticeable improvement in overall power.


    Returning to thisnd of his roots, Lan Chang''an felt both familiar and estranged.


    The geographicalndscape had remainedrgely unchanged, yet many of the forces and figures he now heard of were unfamiliar.


    ¡°That¡¯s correct,¡± Li Congren said, his tone grave. ¡°The Dongmen Family migrated here from Feng Kingdom. This n boasts three Fake Dan experts and over a dozen Foundation Establishment cultivators. Moreover, several of their members are core disciples or hold positions within the Golden Sun Sect¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an nodded in understanding as he listened.


    With the impending invasion of demonic forces and therger-scale wars on the horizon, the demand for war resources had caused their value to soar.


    The Chang''an Mines held by the Snow Plum Mountain Li Family, whose interests had multiplied several times over, was naturally a hot potato.


    Even with the Zhou Family providing protection, it was unlikely that the Dongmen Family would give up on such a lucrative prize without a fight.


    ...


    At noon, the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain hosted a banquet in Lan Chang''an¡¯s honor.


    The Li Family spared no effort, utilizing the finest ingredients they could procure to ensure that the first True Dan-level guest in the history of the Snow Plum Mountain Li Family would be pleased.


    Lan Chang''an nned to stay at Snow Plum Mountain for a day and head to Jin Yun Valley the following day.


    Though he did little, his mere presence at the Li Family was an intangible deterrent to the hostile forces of the Snow Plum Mountain Li Family.


    Throughout the banquet, Family Head Li Congren personally apanied Lan Chang''an, providing him with updates on the situation regarding several old acquaintances.


    For instance, he spoke of Li Erqing, who was still in good health and steadfastly guarding Feiyue in fulfillment of a lifelong promise to the Mu Family.


    ording to Li Congren, his grandfather Li Erqing had only visited Snow Plum Mountain twice over the course of several decades.


    ...


    In the afternoon.


    Lan Chang''an stood atop a snow-capped mountain within the Li Family¡¯s territory, enjoying the view. It was there that he finally caught sight of the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat and the Treasure-Seeking Rat were nestled at the edge of a snowden forest, basking in the sunlight.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat appeared rxed and content, its fur gleaming with vitality.


    In contrast, the Treasure-Seeking Rat looked haggard, its energy weak and blood flow sluggish. Dark circles were faintly visible under its eyes.


    In just one night, the Treasure-Seeking Rat seemed to have be noticeably thinner and more frail.


    After barely resting for a moment, the Earth Burrowing Rat wrapped its arm around the Treasure-Seeking Rat and dragged it into the forest.


    ¡°Squeak, squeak¡­¡±


    The Treasure-Seeking Rat¡¯s feeble cries were soon muffled.


    As the Treasure-Seeking Rat¡¯s master, Li Congren¡¯s eyelid twitched involuntarily, his heart aching.


    He had many descendants, but there was only one Treasure-Seeking Rat.


    Over the years, the Treasure-Seeking Rat had provided considerable assistance, aiding the family¡¯s development and improving his own cultivation progress.


    Lan Chang''an was about to speak, intending to tell the Earth Burrowing Rat to show some restraint.


    Suddenly, from the southeastern direction of Snow Plum Mountain, a wave of True Dan-level energy swept toward them.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 265: Reunion with Jin Yun

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an assumed it was just a passing True Dan cultivator.


    Before long, the wave of True Dan-level spiritual energy descended from the Nine Fiery Heavens and headed directly toward Snow Plum Mountain.


    As the presence approached, Lan Chang''an sensed a familiar aura from an old acquaintance.


    "Is it him? The response from Jin Yun Valley is rather quick."


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t surprised.


    The news of his breakthrough into Core Formation in the Jing Kingdom had either been dyed or left uncertain for the lower-tier cultivators in the Liang Kingdom. However, the intelligenceworks of the upper levels of sects moved faster¡ªthey had long confirmed Lan Chang''an¡¯s advancement to the Core Formation Realm.


    After entering the Liang Kingdom, Lan Chang''an did not bother to conceal his movements. Riding on the back of his spirit turtle, he had even encountered two patrol teams of sectw enforcement cultivators near the border.


    Jin Yun Valley was the nearest cultivation sect to the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain."Fellow Fellow Daoist Lan, congrattions on achieving True Dan!"


    "If not for being tied down by sect affairs, I, Zhang, would have run to Jing Kingdom upon hearing the news to personally visit Fellow Daoist Lan."


    From the sky, the clouds parted, and the deep voice of a man resonated.


    Soon, a middle-aged man with a steady demeanor, average stature, and slightly tannedplexion descended from the sky. He was d in a dark robe and rode on a streak of golden light,nding in mid-air above the Li Family''s territory on Snow Plum Mountain.


    "Tiangfeng Immortal! An Elder of Jin Yun Valley!"


    The core members of the Li Family, including Li Congren, immediately recognized the visitor through his powerful True Dan aura and distinct attire.


    "Zhang Tianfeng, the Law Enforcement Elder of Jin Yun Valley¡­ it seems Grandfather Lan has a considerable connection with him," thought Li Congren, his heart trembling as he suppressed his excitement, refraining from stepping forward recklessly.


    Tiangfeng Immortal was an absolute big shot in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    He had once fought to a standstill against a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator despite being in the early stages of Core Formation himself.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, it has been a long time. When I heard you were being pursued by a True Dan cultivator on the battlefield and disappeared, I was genuinely concerned for you," Lan Chang''an said with a light smile, waving his sleeve as he approached to greet him.


    "Many thanks for Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s concern. I narrowly escaped with my life back then. However, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise as I encountered a senior who guided me, allowing me to stand on equal footing with you as an Immortal today."


    Zhang Tieshan had been in the True Dan stage for several years, and the aura of his Core energy was clearly stronger than Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    From a rough observation, Lan Chang''an judged that Zhang Tieshan had likely formed a mid-tier True Dan.


    Of course, the quality of one¡¯s Core could be concealed, so there was always the possibility that Zhang Tieshan was hiding something. But this assessment could also very well be urate.


    Lan Chang''an had previously discussed Zhang Tieshan with Li Congren in casual conversation.


    Zhang Tieshan, born with subpar spiritual roots, had initially formed a Fake Dan before transforming it into a True Dan¡ªa feat that made it clear to the onlookers he had experienced a great fortune.


    After advancing to the True Dan stage, Zhang Tieshan¡¯sbat power was exceptional, even among others of the same stage. In the entire Liang Kingdom, only a handful of cultivators could pose a threat to him.


    More importantly, achieving a sessful Core Reformation usually required the protection and assistance of a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Zhang Tieshan had been candid about receiving the guidance of a senior expert.


    It was said that ate-stage True Dan Great Cultivator once tried to probe Zhang Tieshan in secret but was frightened off by an invisible force, fleeing in panic.


    Moreover, Core Dissolution methods were not considered particrly rare among Nascent Soul sects, especially in ancient and well-established sects like the Golden Sun Sect.


    In Golden Sun Sect, every century, a few "second-generation immortals"¡ªdescendants of prominent cultivators¡ªwould undergo Core Reformation to rebuild their foundations.


    After all, the Nascent Soul True Monarchs in such sects often had children and disciples, and sect inheritance naturally involved personal rtionships and favors.


    While Core Reformation seemed as difficult as ascending to the heavens for ordinary cultivators, for True Monarchs, it was merely a matter of convenience¡ªsomething hardly worth mentioning.


    ¡­


    Inside the main hall of Snow Plum Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan, two True Dan Immortals, took their seats and began a cordial conversation.


    Li Congren and his wife apanied them briefly, exchanging pleasantries and making an impression on Zhang Tieshan before tactfully excusing themselves.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, I¡¯ve just arrived in Liang Kingdom, and yet you sought me out so quickly. May I ask what brings you here?" Lan Chang''an asked curiously.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, Ie on behalf of our sect¡¯s Grand Elder and Sect Master, who wish to invite you to Jin Yun Valley as a guest," Zhang Tieshan replied with a smile, revealing his purpose.


    An invitation to Jin Yun Valley?


    Lan Chang''an immediately grasped the underlying intention behind the offer. Jin Yun Valley was trying to recruit him.


    After years of cultivation wars, many of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects had suffered losses among their upper echelons of power.


    Lan Chang''an, however, had a clear background and a trustworthy character. Not only was he a True Dan cultivator, but he was also a third-rank talisman master.


    A talent like this would naturally attract the attention of sects.


    "Now that Fellow Daoist Lan is a True Dan cultivator, a third-rank spiritual vein is indispensable for cultivation. Small-scale third-rank veins owned by ordinary families can hardly support multiple True Dan cultivators, and their quality and scale pale inparison to Jin Yun Valley," Zhang Tieshan remarked, hitting the nail on the head.


    True Dan cultivators required a third-rank spiritual vein to sustain their cultivation. However, such veins were nearly impossible to find outside of sects orrge ns.


    Resources like Foundation Establishment Pills, Crystal Condensation Pills, and third-rank spiritual veins were all monopolized by sects and prominent families.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, I am a man who fears trouble and cherishes my freedom. Joining a sect might not suit my temperament," Lan Chang''an responded casually.


    He knew that now that he had advanced to the True Dan stage, it would be difficult to remain independent from major powers while maintaining stable cultivation.


    First- and second-rank spiritual veins could be rented, but third-rank veins were far harder toe by. Even if some were avable for lease under special circumstances, the price was often exorbitant.


    Moreover, managing and defending a third-rank spiritual vein without a backing force was a challenge in itself. Upwards, there were also higher-grade spiritual veins, such as mid-grade and high-grade third-rank veins.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, I¡¯ve already discussed this with the Grand Elder. If you were to join Jin Yun Valley as a guest elder, your primary responsibilities would only involve crafting talismans and asionally assisting with defending the sect. Even in the event of a demonic invasion by the Six Demonic Sects, you wouldn¡¯t be required to fight on the frontlines," Zhang Tieshan said, clearly prepared for this response, his tone as calm as ever.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s interest was piqued. No need for bloody battles? That¡¯s worth considering.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, I¡¯ve only recently advanced to the True Dan stage and returned to Liang Kingdom. I¡¯d like to take a few years to consider this matter," Lan Chang''an replied, neither epting nor rejecting the offer.


    There was no immediate rush. Before his Core Reformation, cultivating further was off the table for him anyway.


    "I hope you¡¯ll consider visiting our sect¡¯s headquarters to meet with the Grand Elder and experience Jin Yun Valley¡¯s sincerity firsthand. Regardless of whether you decide to join, I am willing to gift you a set of insights on Core Reformation as a gesture of goodwill," Zhang Tieshan added, extending an olive branch.


    "Insights on Core Reformation?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart stirred at this offer. He couldn¡¯t help but ask, "May I ask where Fellow Daoist Zhang formed his True Dan?"


    Zhang Tieshan hesitated briefly before answering, "My True Dan was formed in Wangyue Immortal City. This is a personal matter, and I ask Fellow Daoist Lan to keep it a secret."


    "Thank you for sharing, Fellow Daoist Zhang. I assure you, I will not disclose this to anyone," Lan Chang''an replied.


    In truth, Zhang Tieshan¡¯s choice of location came as no surprise to him.


    Wangyue Immortal City had been one of the ces Lan Chang''an himself had considered for his breakthrough.


    Wangyue Immortal City, located between Liang Kingdom and Feng Kingdom, was built upon the remnants of a fourth-rank demonic spiritual vein and was now a neutral city for high-level cultivators.


    The city primarily catered to higher-tier cultivators and was known for its impable reputation and mysterious backing. Rumor had it that its sponsors hailed from the vast central regions of the Great Qing domain.


    In Wangyue Immortal City, breakthroughs to Core Formation were amon urrence. Even forming an upper-grade True Dan wasn¡¯t considered particrly attention-grabbing. The city even permitted cultivators to attempt Nascent Soul breakthroughs!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The city¡¯s main patrons consisted of Core Formation cultivators and Fake Dan cultivators, though Nascent Soul True Monarchs asionally made appearances as well.


    However, the surrounding areas of Wangyue Immortal City werewless and teeming with powerful rogue cultivators. Unless one was already a True Dan cultivator, traveling there was exceedingly dangerous.


    Foundation Establishment cultivators who visited typically did so under the protection of senior family members or sect elders, treating it as an opportunity to broaden their horizons.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan continued their conversation until evening.


    Beyond reminiscing about the past and discussing the current state of affairs in the Liang Kingdom, the two also reached some tentative agreements.


    For instance, forging a wood-element magical treasure.


    Instead of epting spirit stones as payment, Zhang Tieshan requested third-rank talismans aspensation from Lan Chang''an in the future.


    Zhang Tieshan had grown up in a family of cksmiths and possessed a strong will. After stepping into the cultivation path, he exhibited notable talent for artifact refining and eventually became an artifact refiner within his sect.


    In recent years, his skills in artifact crafting had advanced rapidly, making him a rare third-rank artifact refining master.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but suspect that Zhang Tieshan¡¯s progress was somehow rted to the Five Elements Earth he had traded with him in the past.


    He knew that Five Elements Earth could enhance the power of magical treasures and repair high-grade magical treasures, but he hadn¡¯t heard of it improving one¡¯s artifact-refining skills.


    ¡­


    "Fellow Daoist Zhang, it¡¯s already gettingte. I originally nned to stay at Snow Plum Mountain for the night and head to Jin Yun Valley tomorrow," Lan Chang''an said with a slight smile.


    Jin Yun Valley was already his nned second stop after returning to Liang Kingdom.


    Even if Zhang Tieshan hadn¡¯te to extend an invitation, Lan Chang''an intended to visit Jin Yun Valley the next day anyway.


    The reasons were twofold:


    First, to catch up with old acquaintances.


    Second, to conduct a transaction with Zhang Tieshan, forge a magical treasure, inquire about the location of Core Reformation breakthroughs, and exchange cultivation insights.


    Now that Zhang Tieshan had personally invited him and even promised to share his Core Reformation insights, it aligned perfectly with Lan Chang''an¡¯s ns.


    "No problem," Zhang Tieshan nodded. "Tomorrow, I will apany Fellow Daoist Lan back to Jin Yun Valley."


    He had a pretty good guess about Lan Chang''an¡¯s intentions behind staying the night at Snow Plum Mountain.


    ording to the intelligence, Jin Yun Valley had gathered, Lan Chang''an had once used the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain as a stepping stone to secretly cross the border into Jing Kingdom, thus securing thirty years of stable cultivation.


    Simply passing by and making a brief stop was vastly different from staying the night.


    This act was a subtle way for Lan Chang''an to repay a favor, signaling to the outside world his goodwill toward the Li Family.


    That evening, the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain treated their guests with the highest respect, as if they were entertaining foreign dignitaries. The family arranged for the two True Dan cultivators to stay in the best guest courtyards.


    Zhang Tieshan was given a serene and secluded courtyard.


    As soon as he entered the pavilion within the courtyard, Zhang Tieshan waved away the maids and servants.


    Like Lan Chang''an, Zhang Tieshan had cultivated for over a century and never taken a Daopanion, nor left behind any descendants.


    Lan Chang''an, at least, had been the subject of some minor rumors back in the Liang Kingdom.


    Zhang Tieshan, however, had never been linked to any female cultivators in a romantic sense.


    Aside from his decisiveness in battle and his reputation for strict enforcement of the sect¡¯sws, this was one of the reasons he earned the nickname "ck Iron Face."


    Suddenly, a childlike voice echoed in Zhang Tieshan¡¯s mind.


    "Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique... the legendary Great Cultivator Yan Doni... I finally remember!"


    The voice came from the artifact spirit that resided within a fragment of a spiritual treasure Zhang Tieshan had been painstakingly repairing. As the fragment was repaired, the artifact spirit¡¯s memories were gradually being restored.


    "Legendary Great Cultivator Yan Doni?"


    Zhang Tieshan frowned, puzzled. This was the first time he had heard such a name.


    The only thing he knew was that three hundred years ago, in the Great Qing central region, there had been ate-stage Nascent Soul Great Cultivator who had led the Ten Sects of the Xuan Gate to defeat the Six Demonic Sects at the height of their power.


    It was this cultivator¡¯s actions that reshaped the bnce of power in Great Qing, forcing the Six Demonic Sects to expand eastward.


    The artifact spirit continued: "A ¡®Legendary Great Cultivator¡¯ is a title reserved for the most elitete-stage Nascent Soul cultivators. Their fame transcends regional boundaries, with tales of their exploits spreading across the Tianheng Continent. Such ancient monsters typically possess extremely powerful true spiritual treasures. In situations where Deity Transformation Heavenly Lords are restricted, these Legendary Great Cultivators are even capable of standing toe-to-toe with them."


    "That old fox Yan Doni was one of the best among them. In fact, one of my former masters was tricked by him..."


    The artifact spirit¡¯s voice carried a tone of bitterness, mixed with lingering fear and grudging admiration.


    "May I ask," Zhang Tieshan interjected, "if Senior Yan is still alive today?"


    "Heh, even if that old fox isn¡¯tpletely dead, he¡¯s probably in a terrible situation." The artifact spirit chuckled gleefully, clearly enjoying the thought of Yan Doni¡¯s misfortune.


    "The Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique¡ªis it some sort of unparalleled cultivation method?"


    "Hah, not quite. It¡¯s an ancient longevity technique. Itsbat utility is mediocre at best, but it¡¯s exceptional for extending lifespan and healing injuries. That said, the technique has absurdly high requirements¡ªit demands an earth-grade wood spiritual root at minimum. Even then, the cultivation speed is as slow as a tortoise. For top-tier geniuses, it¡¯s nothing but a waste of time."


    "An earth-grade wood spiritual root? Wait, Senior Spirit, I recall that Lan Chang''an¡¯s wood spirit root isn¡¯t even mid-grade," Zhang Tieshan interrupted, frowning.


    "Er... This artifact spirit doesn¡¯t know all the details," the artifact spirit replied, slightly flustered. "Perhaps Lan Chang''an has some secret method to conceal his true spiritual roots, or maybe there are other unique conditions involved."


    "Regardless, cultivating this technique almost always leads to a bad end."


    Lackingplete memories, the artifact spirit couldn¡¯t provide a definitive exnation and eventually concluded with a vague statement.


    ...


    The Next Morning.


    Lan Chang''anpleted his daily routine of nurturing his treasure talismans and practicing the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art.


    This body refinement technique was rtively unremarkable¡ªbnced butcking any unique traits. With enough talent, resources, and effort, it could be cultivated steadily.


    Having a solid foundation in body refinement, Lan Chang''an estimated that within about a year, he could restore his previous level and then push toward the third rank of body refinement.


    After finishing his morning practice, he met up with Zhang Tieshan to prepare to bid farewell to Li Congren.


    ...


    Inside the Main Hall.


    Li Congren was entertaining an important guest¡ªa long-bearded elder with streaks of gray in his hair. The elder, a Fake Dan cultivator, carried himself with politeness and humility as he conversed with Li Congren.


    "The Chang''an Mines belong to the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain, which first discovered and developed this vein. This is a well-acknowledged fact in the surrounding region. Previously, a few younger members of my Dongmen Family offered a price that was far too low, which must have beenughable to you, Little Friend Li."


    The long-bearded elder was the helmsman of the Dongmen Family, the Dongmen Patriarch.


    Watching this previously unattainable figure¡ªwho now spoke with hidden apologies and a friendly demeanor¡ªLi Congren felt a wave of satisfaction, as if a zing sun had cleared away the gloomy clouds that had weighed upon him for years.


    It was hard to imagine that this was the same man whom he, until now, hadn¡¯t even been qualified to meet.


    The Dongmen Family had long stationed secret spies to monitor the activities of the Li Family on Snow Plum Mountain.


    Upon learning that two True Dan cultivators had spent the night there¡ªone of whom was a Law Enforcement Elder from Jin Yun Valley¡ªthe Dongmen patriarch had broken out in a cold sweat.


    The Dongmen Family had suffered significant losses during the Golden Sun Sect''s war and subsequent northern migration, including the death of their True Dan grand elder.


    After the war, the Dongmen Family focused on recovery, using the spoils of war and reparations to cultivate one Fake Dan and two Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    However, even with all the resources they amassed, they had failed to produce another True Dan cultivator.


    Fortunately, the n had relocated to the Liang Kingdom.


    Had they remained in Feng Kingdom, they would have been outssed by other top ns, each boasting at least one True Dan cultivator¡ªsome even more.


    The Dongmen Family, now struggling with a generation gap in their leadership, could not afford to provoke a True Dan cultivator over something as trivial as a mining vein.


    Even if their former grand elder were still alive, it would not have been worth the risk.


    Moreover, the Dongmen Family¡¯s territory was under the jurisdiction of Jin Yun Valley, where Zhang Tieshan held significant influence.


    "Patriarch Dongmen, this junior must excuse himself for a moment to send off our two esteemed True Dan guests. Please wait here for a short while," Li Congren said, ncing briefly at his wife, who stood outside the main hall. He rose from his seat and apologized with courtesy.


    "No need! For two True Dan cultivators, this old man would be honored to join you in bidding them farewell," the Dongmen patriarch replied thick-skinned, shamelessly following Li Congren out of the hall.


    Before long, the group arrived at the courtyard, where Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan were in conversation.


    The Dongmen patriarch and Li Congren¡¯s family watched from a respectful distance as the two True Dan cultivators spoke.


    "This humble one is Dongmen Qing, patriarch of the Dongmen Family¡­"


    The Dongmen patriarch¡¯s voice carried a tone of humility, his face adorned with a genial smile as he approached the two.


    However, Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan merely exchanged a few indifferent words with him, their tones t and uninterested. They showed no enthusiasm for further conversation.


    "Take care, Grandfather Lan," Li Congren and the core members of the Li Family said respectfully as they watched the two cultivators ascend into the skies, disappearing into the Nine Fiery Heavens above the clouds.


    At this moment, Li Congren turned to nce at the Dongmen patriarch standing nearby. The old man¡¯s expression was awkward and bitter, a stark contrast to his earlier calmness.


    It was at this moment that Li Congren truly understood the immense gulf between Fake Dan and True Dan cultivators.


    It was even greater than the difference between a True Dan and a Golden Dan.


    The difference between True Dan and Golden Dan was primarily in raw power and future potential. While True Dan cultivators were considered weaker than Golden Dan cultivators of the same rank, both were ultimately acknowledged as being part of the Core Formation Realm.


    However, Fake Dan cultivators were another matter entirely.


    To many high-level cultivators, Fake Dan cultivators weren¡¯t considered true Core Formation cultivators at all.


    Their status was dependent on their identity¡ªsome might respectfully address them as "Immortal," but if not, they might even be treated as juniors.


    The dismissive attitude of Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan toward the Dongmen patriarch demonstrated this stark disparity.


    "If I ever have the chance to form a Core in this lifetime, I must make sure it¡¯s a True Dan."


    Li Congren resolved himself, deeply impressed by the awe-inspiring presence of a True Dan powerhouse.


    There was no need for deliberate shows of dominance, no need to fight or argue, no need to lower themselves to conflict.


    Just by staying one night on Snow Plum Mountain, Grandfather Lan had caused the Dongmen patriarch to personallye forward, back down, and resolve any lingering grievances.


    Of course, Li Congren was unaware of one crucial detail¡ªneither his Grandfather Lan nor Zhang Tieshan were ordinary True Dan cultivators¡­


    ¡­


    Less than half a dayter.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan arrived in the skies above Jin Yun Valley.


    The radiant sunlight illuminated the towering, mist-shrouded mountains below. The metal-rich rocks of the peaks reflected faint golden hues into the surrounding clouds, painting a scene of resplendent beauty¡ªa sacred, awe-inspiringnd of immortals.


    Lan Chang''an had lost count of how many times he had been to Jin Yun Valley.


    However, there were two visits that he would never forget.


    The first was when he came to participate in Jin Yun Valley''s entry assessment¡ªand failed.


    Back then, he hade with three other cultivators from Hengshui Prefecture: Zhao Siyao, Lin Yi, and Li Ergou. Among the four, only Zhao Siyao, with her superior aptitude, had sessfully joined Jin Yun Valley.


    Zhang Tieshan, on the other hand, hade from another region, and he had imed first ce in that year¡¯s assessment for mental fortitude.


    Now, over a centuryter, the fate of that small group was clear, and in many ways, already set in stone. Some had perished, while the remaining few had taken vastly different paths.


    The second memorable visit? That would be today.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, this is the sect master of Jin Yun Valley, Xuanxiao Immortal."


    A powerful mid-stage Core Formation aura surged out of Jin Yun Valley¡¯s main hall like a golden dragon soaring into the sky.


    A golden streak of light descended before the two, coalescing into a tangible form.


    It was a man of exceptional bearing, donning a tall ceremonial crown and a golden feathered robe. His strikingly handsome features radiated an aura of calm authority.


    Under Zhang Tieshan¡¯s introduction, the two exchanged formal greetings.


    The poised, elegant interaction between the two figures was like a scene from an immortal painting.


    "Immortal Evergreen, I have long admired your reputation."


    "Sect Master weing me personally? Lan is truly unworthy of such an honor," Lan Chang''an said with a hint of surprise.


    He hadn¡¯t expected the sect master of Jin Yun Valley to personallye out to greet him.


    It wasn¡¯t that the sect master had the highest cultivation in Jin Yun Valley¡ªon the contrary, that title belonged to the Grand Elder.


    However, the sect master, as the head of the sect and the overseer of its mundane and administrative affairs, was still the face and representative of Jin Yun Valley. For him toe in person spoke volumes about Jin Yun Valley¡¯s attitude toward Lan Chang''an.


    This moment left a deep impression on Lan Chang''an.


    A century and a half ago, Jin Yun Valley had rejected him, forcing him to be a loose cultivator. Left with no other choice, he had joined the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    Now, 150 yearster, he returned to Jin Yun Valley, apanied by an elder of the sect, with the sect master himself stepping out to greet him at the gate.


    The vicissitudes of time, the rise and fall of fortunes, the ebb and flow of honor and disgrace¡­


    To live long enough was to witness history unfold¡ªand to stand apart as a mere observer of the tides of change.


    ...


    The three Core Formation cultivators chatted amiably as they descended toward the gates of Jin Yun Valley.


    Just as they were about to enter, a streak of light as graceful as the dawn mist approached them from the distance.


    The neer was another True Dan cultivator¡ªa woman. She wore a flowing, multicolored long dress that perfectlyplemented her slender figure.


    Her youthful appearance made her seem no older than eighteen or neen. She had brows like emerald feathers, skin as fair as snow, and eyes so lively and bright they seemed to glisten like two stars filled with emotion.


    At first nce, her features bore a striking resemnce to Zhao Siyao. However, their temperaments were worlds apart.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s demeanor was cold, steady, and dignifiedposed yet approachable.


    This young woman, on the other hand, exuded a spirited charm. Her presence was pure and vibrant, with a yful, lighthearted energy that sparkled in her every gesture.


    "Zhao Tan¡¯er?"


    Lan Chang''an paused for a moment before recognizing her. She was the disciple of his old friend Zhao Siyao.


    Judging by her spiritual aura, Zhao Tan¡¯er had only recently broken through to True Dan¡ªperhaps in thest year or two.


    Thest time Lan Chang''an had heard news about her, she had been at the Foundation Establishment Realm, and she had made significant gains in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm.


    At the time, the Earth Burrowing Rat under his care was attempting to break into the third rank, while Zhao Siyao had also formed a Fake Dan for many years.


    "Tan¡¯er greets Uncle Lan."


    The now-mature Zhao Tan¡¯er curtsied elegantly, her sweet and melodic voice carrying a newfound grace andposure from her recent advancement.


    "Is your master in the sect?" Lan Chang''an asked, a touch of nostalgia shing through his eyes. He hadn¡¯t seen Zhao Siyao in decades, and visiting Jin Yun Valley on his return to Liang Kingdom was partly with the intention of reconnecting with her.


    "My master? She just entered seclusion today," Zhao Tan¡¯er replied, her bright eyes darting over this seemingly ageless "Uncle Lan," her gaze filled with subtle curiosity and intrigue.


    "Seclusion?"


    Lan Chang''an blinked, momentarily stunned. What are the odds?


    A True Dan cultivator like himself, returning to Jin Yun Valley, would surely have made enough of a stir that Zhao Siyao would have heard about it. And yet, she happened to go into seclusion the very same day he arrived?


    ...

 Chapter 266: An Old Friend, A Fair Lady

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment, and he more or less understood the thoughts of his old friend from days past.


    He and Zhao Siyao had met during their youth when they first embarked on the path of immortality¡ªa friendship that spanned over a hundred years.


    The two had once faced life and death together in the ck Fog Mountain Range, aiding each other through their Foundation Establishment stage.


    For a considerable time, their rtionship was primarily based on the bond of panionship" as fellow cultivators.


    But this panionship" wasn¡¯t the kind between Daoist partners.


    Over the long years, it was inevitable that a trace of admiration and affection emerged between them.


    However, both weremitted to the pursuit of the Great Dao, prioritizing cultivation above all else.


    Under an unspoken mutual understanding, that faint trace of romantic sentiment remained nothing more than a silent, secondary emotion.Neither of them wanted to disturb the bnce of their century-long friendship.


    Until one day, Zhao Siyao narrowly escaped death on the frontlines of the battlefield, surviving only thanks to borrowing a treasure talisman from Lan Chang''an.


    Having experienced life and death, Zhao Siyao''s state of mind subtly changed when she met Lan Chang''an again.


    During that meeting, their conversation almost pierced through the metaphorical "paper window" that separated them.


    Zhao Siyao sighed at the time and said, "Such a great favor, how do you expect me to repay you?"


    She also asked Lan Chang''an when he intends to tie the knot and marry Fairy Shi.


    Lan Chang''an had replied, "The cultivation world is ever-changing. The Foundation Establishment Realm only gives one a foothold, but it doesn¡¯tpare to the magical powers and magical treasures of Core Formation Immortals. How could I dare to take a wife and have children at this stage?"


    Zhao Siyao had pressed further, "And what if you were to achieve a Fake Dan one day?"


    At the time, such a question was seen as a loftypliment, given Lan Chang''an¡¯s age and talent.


    Lan Chang''an, however, responded calmly, "If I achieve a Fake Dan, then I, Lan, would find a female cultivator with whom I have mutual affection, marry, have children, and establish a cultivation family to properly nurture my descendants."


    But now, Lan Chang''an had returned to Jin Yun Valley as a True Dan cultivator.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s old hypothetical seemed almost like a "curse" now, one that underestimated him entirely.


    The unspoken agreement of the past had now turned into a shattered hope.


    Perhaps out of self-reproach, or to avoid the awkwardness, Zhao Siyao didn¡¯t wish to face Lan Chang''an directly after his sess.


    ...


    Due to time constraints, Lan Chang''an exchanged only a few polite words with Zhao Tan''er.


    "Immortal Lan, the Grand Elder is waiting for you at the back of the mountain," the Jin Yun Valley sect master, dressed in resplendent golden robes, said with a smile.


    "Uncle Lan, we¡¯ll talkter," Zhao Tan¡¯er chimed in. Her expression clearly held something she wanted to say to him but kept unspoken.


    In the past, as a junior disciple, she had often fretted on behalf of her master and Lan Chang''an, frustrated that neither of them took the initiative.


    "Alright," Lan Chang''an nodded and followed Immortal Tianfeng and the sect master, Immortal Xuanxiao, toward the back mountain of Jin Yun Valley.


    The Grand Elder of Jin Yun Valley, a cultivator in thete stage of Core Formation, was someone at least on par with Lan Chang''an''s achievements in his previous life.


    For someone of such stature, far surpassing ordinary Core Formation cultivators, not personallying out to greet Lan Chang''an was not considered disrespectful.


    By a stream in the back mountain...


    The Grand Elder, with his crane-like hair and youthful face, stood only five feet tall. He wore simple robes and sat by a campfire.


    Lan Chang''an caught a whiff of a meaty aroma that instantly whetted his appetite.


    Beggar¡¯s Chicken?


    He sharply noticed that beneath the fire pit¡¯s soily an ordinary-sized poultry bird.


    The savory aroma of meat mixed with the fragrance of green onions, carrying a faint trace of pure spiritual energy. This unique quality suggested that even for Foundation Establishment cultivators, it would be a rare tonic.


    "Lan Chang''an, who recently advanced to Core Formation, greets the Great Elder," Lan Chang''an said humbly, bowing deeply.


    He knew well that, while he might be able to fight or even win with individuals like Zhang Tieshan or even the sect master if he unleashed all his trump cards, the Grand Elder before him was an entirely different story.


    Even if Lan Chang''an had an Immortal Golden Dan, at his current early-stage Core Formation cultivation, defeating someone at the Grand Elder''s level was utterly impossible.


    The quality of one¡¯s Core might grant purer spiritual energy, but inbat, the cultivation stage and magical treasures often yed a far more decisive role.


    "Evergreen Immortal, I heard of your exploits back when you were in the Foundation Establishment stage at Huanglong Immortal City. Now, having advanced to be a true Core Formation cultivator, you¡¯re a model of perseverance in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world," the Grand Elder said warmly, gesturing with his hand.


    "Come! No need to be formal. Sit down and have a taste of this Beggar¡¯s Chicken I¡¯ve raised myself!"


    The rich aroma of spiritual meat filled the air as the sect master and Zhang Tieshan, unable to hide their hunger, eagerly took their seats.


    The Grand Elder pulled out the roasted, golden-skinned Cloud Crane Chicken and divided it among the four of them.


    Taking his first bite, Lan Chang''an felt his appetite surge. The vor was extraordinary, an explosion of satisfaction that rxed both his body and spiritual energy. His whole being felt refreshed, his mind clear and serene.


    Only then did Lan Chang''an realize that the Grand Elder was quite aplished in the spiritual culinary arts, one of the Hundred Arts of Immortal Cultivation.


    Eating a dish prepared by the Grand Elder not only adjusted one¡¯s physical state but also offered a rare form of mental rity.


    That delightful sensation surpassed even the joy of discussing Dao with Fairy Hanyu.


    As the group chatted casually, Lan Chang''an learned that the Grand Elder could be considered a semi-practitioner of a "life-nurturing" cultivation school.


    The Great Elder''s life-nurturing was not a cultivation technique, but was instead embodied in the culinary path. Through food therapy, using rare and precious ingredients to nourish and maintain the body, ensuring a state of bnce, vitality, and longevity.


    Partway through, the sect master and Zhang Tieshan excused themselves.


    The Grand Elder then began to express his desire to recruit Lan Chang''an, offering quite favorable terms.


    "If Fellow Daoist Lan were to be an honorary elder of our sect, you wouldn¡¯t be required to handle any sect affairs, nor would you need to fight on the frontlines. Other than not gaining ess to our sect¡¯s core inheritances or certain confidential privileges, the cultivation environment, resources, and stipends would be nearly identical to those of inner sect elders."


    "Of course, I won¡¯t insist. Fellow Daoist Lan has only recently returned to the Liang Kingdom, so you may need time to consider. Even if you don¡¯t join our sect, Jin Yun Valley would still be happy to coborate with you in the future, particrly in terms of third-rank talismans."


    Lan Chang''an responded earnestly, "I will consider this carefully. If I were to join a sect within the Liang Kingdom, Jin Yun Valley would undoubtedly be my first choice."


    The Grand Elder nodded with a smile, seemingly satisfied with this response.


    Over the past century, Lan Chang''an had maintained close ties with Jin Yun Valley and built strong rtionships with many of its inner cultivators.


    As a newly advanced Core Formation cultivator, a third-rank spiritual vein was essential for cultivation.


    Only a sect like Jin Yun Valley could offer Lan Chang''an a stable andfortable environment for cultivation without imposing excessive obligations.


    Joining a group like the Wufu Merchant Association might grant him ess to a third-rank spiritual vein, but as their strongest cultivator, he would be responsible for shielding the entire group from external threats, a heavy burden to bear.


    Jin Yun Valley, on the other hand, was different¡ªstanding under the shade of a great tree meant enjoying its protection.


    When cmities struck, the strongest cultivators and core members bore the brunt of the enemy''s focus.


    ...


    After Leaving the back of the mountain.


    Lan Chang¡¯an noticed Zhang Tieshan waiting for him.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er, however, was nowhere to be seen. She had likely gone to inform her master about thetest developments.


    "Did Fellow Daoist Zhao form her Fake Dan in the year I left?" Lan Chang¡¯an asked Zhang Tieshan, seeking more details about Zhao Siyao, who had avoided meeting him.


    "It was indeed the same year. A few months after our trade and your departure," Zhang Tieshan replied after some thought.


    Lan Chang¡¯an calcted the timeline. He had left the Liang Kingdom thirty years ago.


    Zhao Siyao, being two years younger than him, should have been around 140 years old when she formed her Fake Dan.


    Given her background and talent, this was an above-average achievement.


    Zhao Siyao wasn¡¯t a second-generation immortal cultivator. She came from a mundane schrly family and had decent spiritual roots, bordering on high-grade quality.


    Many with high-grade spiritual roots failed to even form a Fake Dan, some with disastrous results.


    Thus, when Zhao Siyao seeded in forming her Fake Dan, the surrounding cultivators were neither overly surprised nor unimpressed¡ªthey simply offered polite congrattions.


    To be fair, Zhao Siyao had put in considerable effort over the past century, facing numerous dangers to reach this stage.


    But then again, which cultivator at this level hadn¡¯t fought tooth and nail for their progress?


    ...


    After briefly discussing the refining of the magic treasures, Lan Chang¡¯an noticed that Zhao Tan¡¯er had not yet returned, so he apanied Zhang Tieshan to thetter¡¯s cave abode.


    Lan Chang¡¯an vaguely sensed that Zhang Tieshan¡¯s attitude toward him had shifted since he stayed overnight at Snow Plum Mountain. There was now a touch of deeper respect in Zhang Tieshan¡¯s gaze, asionally mixed with a trace of unspoken meaning.


    "If you feel regret on Fellow Daoist Zhao¡¯s behalf, the Core Dissolution Technique from our past trade¡ªI¡¯ll allow you to teach it to her, without being bound by the heart demon oath," Zhang Tieshan said generously, showing an umon magnanimity.


    "That said, I don¡¯t rmend doing so. The risks of Core shattering aside, even if its sessfully shattered, there¡¯s no guarantee she¡¯ll seed in forming her Core again."


    Without the protection of a Nascent Soul True Monarch, the sess rate of Core shattering was low, the risks high, and the mortality rate even higher.


    The bacsh from failure¡ªcrippled vitality, permanent foundational damage¡ªwas a challenge that few could ovee.


    In fact, Jin Yun Valley possessed a rtivelymon Core Dissolution Technique. But even so, how many cultivators dared to attempt it?


    In the past thousand years, there was only one instance of a cultivator in Jin Yun Valley sessfully shattering their Core.


    Yet, when that cultivator attempted to form their Core again, it was still a Fake Dan¡ªa fatal blow to their efforts. They had essentially risked life and death for nothing.


    The reason? By the time they attempted Core Formation again, their age had advanced significantly, their damaged foundation lowered their potential, and their odds of sess were reduced even further.


    With slightly worse luck, their next attempt at Core Formation might have killed them outright.


    "On behalf of Fellow Daoist Zhao, I thank you for your generosity, Fellow Daoist Zhang," Lan Chang¡¯an said with a cupped fist, expressing his gratitude.


    In truth, he didn¡¯t support Zhao Siyao taking the Core Reformation route. He didn¡¯t even want to tell her about the technique.


    The main reason was her age.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    A Fake Dan cultivator had a lifespan of about three hundred years. At 170 years old, Zhao Siyao still had time.


    However, after shattering her dan, her cultivation would drop back to the Foundation Establishment stage. She would no longer enjoy the lifespan of a Fake Dan cultivator at their peak.


    This process was akin to scattering one¡¯s cultivation.


    It was fundamentally different from the Nascent Soul stage¡¯s out-of-body experiences.


    In the Nascent Soul stage, the cultivator¡¯s essence, including their divine soul, condensed into the Nascent Soul.


    Even if their physical body was destroyed, as long as the Nascent Soul survived, their cultivation realm wouldn¡¯t regress.


    With a new physical body, they could recover their strength in as little as a few years or as much as a decade, bypassing the need to re-cultivate through the Foundation Establishment, Core Formation, and Nascent Soul Realms.


    With the age factor in y, even if Zhao Siyao sessfully shattered her Core, when she tried forming another Core, even the chances of returning to her Fake Dan stage would be slim.


    She had failed to form a True Dan thirty years ago. Thirty yearster, her chances would only be worse. The risks this time would far exceed those of her first attempt.


    When Lan Chang¡¯an formed his Core at the age of 171, even Xia Hongyu had been concerned that his age might lead to death from bacsh.


    ...


    "This jade slip contains my insights from my sessful Core Reformation," Zhang Tieshan said, fulfilling his prior promise.


    Lan Chang¡¯an epted the jade slip, and a quick sweep of his spiritual sense brought a faint smile to his lips.


    While he had already fully grasped the Returning Dust Core Transformation Method, hecked practical experience.


    This jade slip would help fill those gaps.


    "Unfortunately, since Lan¡¯s first attempt at Core Formation was a True Dan, this knowledge will likely remain unused. Perhaps it might be of some help to Fellow Daoist Zhao," Lan Chang¡¯an remarked, keeping his expression neutral.


    Core Reformation was generally for transforming Fake Dans.


    Attempting to shatter a True Dan was exponentially riskier, to the point where virtually no one dared to try.


    Zhang Tieshan offered noment, though a faint smile flickered across his lips.


    Not dwelling further on the matter of Core Reformation, Lan Chang¡¯an shifted the conversation toward the details of crafting magical treasures.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan intends to forge a wood-element magical treasure. What material are you considering as the magical treasure¡¯s core?" Zhang Tieshan asked with evident curiosity.


    Lan Chang¡¯an set up severalyers of restrictions to block prying senses before responding via voice transmission.


    "Millennial Soul-Nurturing Wood?"


    Zhang Tieshan couldn¡¯t help but react. Still, given his past dealings with Lan Chang¡¯an¡ªsuch as the Five Elements Earth¡ªhe quickly recovered from his surprise.


    "Millennium Soul-Nurturing Wood is an exceptional material for crafting wood-element magical treasures, particrly those with soul-rted attributes. It¡¯s highly effective against ghost cultivators, demonic entities, and illusion-based techniques.


    "However, in terms of destructive power, it¡¯s rtively average."


    "This wood is moremonly used to forge protective treasures or essories. When worn, it nourishes the soul and shields against external evils. Rarely is it used for offensive treasures," Zhang Tieshan exined.


    After a moment of contemtion, he admitted hecked the expertise to suggest the optimal refinement n immediately.


    He had primarily forged magical treasures using metallic ores, leveraging fragments of spiritual treasures to enhance their quality and sess rates.


    But when it came to high-grade materials like fourth-rank Soul-Nurturing Wood, his experience wascking.


    After some discussion, they tentatively settled on three potential approaches:


    The first was an offensive type, for example, a peachwood sword that could y spirits and restrain demonic entities.


    The second was a functional essory, these would conserve materials, allowing multiple items to be crafted and reducing the risks of failure.


    The third was a specialized magical treasure, designed to create illusions or charm the mind.


    Of the three, Zhang Tieshan had the highest confidence in crafting functional essories.


    Offensive treasures came second, while specialized treasures involving illusions were the least reliable.


    Lan Chang¡¯an, however, was somewhat ambitious. He hoped tobine elements of the first and second approaches to maximize the potential of the fourth-rank Millennium Soul-Nurturing Wood.


    After all, the wood had additional enhancements¡ªit could aid him in illuminating his past lives faster.


    "Given my current skill level, I¡¯ll need two to three years to thoroughly study the material," Zhang Tieshan said after careful consideration. "When the timees, send over the Soul-Nurturing Wood for refinement. The sess rate will be much higher. Additionally, we¡¯ll need to gather some auxiliary materials for the process."


    "Very well. I¡¯ll leave it in your capable hands, Fellow Daoist Zhang," Lan Chang¡¯an replied.


    As payment, Lan Chang¡¯an promised several third-rank talismans, including two mid-grade ones, aspensation.


    The content of the transaction, the two swore an oath of secrecy not to disclose to outsiders.


    With their previous trades involving the Five Elements Earth and Core Dissolution Technique, a foundation of trust had already been established between them.


    ...


    That nigh at Jin Yun Valley, Lan Chang¡¯an stayed overnight at a luxurious cave abode on a mountain peak nourished by a third-rank spiritual vein, courtesy of Jin Yun Valley.


    As evening approached, Zhao Tan¡¯er finally arrived, showing upte to visit him at his temporary residence.


    "Sigh, my master refuses to listen to reason and insists on staying in seclusion, unwilling to meet guests," Zhao Tan¡¯er said with a pout. She adjusted her colorful long dress as she casually sat cross-legged, leaning slightly against the table, looking visibly upset.


    "She simply doesn¡¯t want to see me," Lan Chang¡¯an said with a faint smile as he made light conversation with Zhao Tan¡¯er, who didn¡¯t hold back in venting her frustrations.


    Though decades had passed, Zhao Tan¡¯er was still the same candid and straightforward girl he remembered¡ªbright, honest, and refreshingly direct. She had no patience for pretense or unnecessary formalities.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er was a disciple Zhao Siyao had taken in before she had reached the Foundation Establishment stage.


    The two were from the same family line, and Zhao Siyao treated Zhao Tan¡¯er almost like a daughter.


    When Lan Chang¡¯an first met Zhao Tan¡¯er, he had already noticed her talent. Her breakthroughs and progress in the Foundation Establishment stage were faster than those of most cultivators with high-grade spiritual roots.


    At the time, he had already foreseen that Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s cultivation achievements might one day surpass his own.


    After all, his own cultivation progress had always been painfully slow, so being overtaken by others was nothing new to him.


    Back in his Qi-Refining stage, Li Ergou had also been ahead of him for a time.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er not only had better innate talent than Zhao Siyao but also benefited from superior resources and nurturing in Jin Yun Valley.


    Moreover, her straightforward temperament seemed to grant her a unique childlike heart, allowing her to maintain a state of mental rity and simplicity. This quality made it easier for her to break through bottlenecks.


    Coupled with a fortuitous opportunity in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, she had even advanced to Core Formation slightly earlier than Lan Chang¡¯an.


    ...


    "Uncle Lan, let me toast you again!"


    Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s fair face flushed a rosy red, her bright eyes bing misty and glistening, as she repeatedly raised her ss and clinked it with Lan Chang¡¯an¡¯s.


    In the past hour alone, they had emptied several jars of third-rank spirit wine.


    Even with the fortified physiques of Core Formation cultivators, it was bing difficult to endure.


    Third-rank spirit wine was potent, its intoxicating effect going straight to the soul. For ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators, just a few sips would be enough to make them dizzy.


    "Drink less," Lan Chang¡¯an said, trying unsessfully to stop her. Zhao Tan¡¯er, being a Core Formation cultivator herself, wasn¡¯t so easily deterred.


    He could sense her intent to get him drunk, but she had clearly underestimated him.


    At this point, Zhao Tan¡¯er was nearly leaning against him. Her long dress and silky ck hair, faintly fragrant, brushed against him, filling the air with a delicate, pleasant scent.


    "How improper. A grown woman like you, yet you don¡¯t show respect to your elders. Sitting without proper posture¡ªwhat kind of behavior is this?"


    Lan Chang¡¯an lifted his arm slightly, helping the tipsy Zhao Tan¡¯er sit up straight.


    "Hmph! It''s not like you''re my master¡¯s Daoist partner¡­"


    "And now that you and I are both in the early Core Formation Realm, what makes you my elder? Exactly where are you older than me?" Zhao Tan¡¯er retorted with a soft hum, her face flushed red as the rosy glow of dawn. She didn¡¯t seem inclined to concede.


    "I¡¯m older than you in age!" Lan Chang¡¯an said, his face stern.


    In truth, setting aside his rtionship with Zhao Siyao, the tradition of the cultivation world was to determine seniority based on one¡¯s cultivation realm. By that standard, Zhao Tan¡¯er could indeed be considered his equal.


    "You¡¯re just using your age as an excuse to act superior," Zhao Tan¡¯er said with a giggle. Her misty eyes sparkled with amusement, though it was hard to tell if she was mocking him or simply teasing.


    "With your pitiful tolerance for alcohol, you actually thought you could get me drunk? If you have something to ask, just say it," Lan Chang¡¯an said, exasperated.


    "Fine," Zhao Tan¡¯er said. She circted her Core Formation power, instantly sobering up. Her bright eyes became clear, fixing on the white-robed man before her, who seemed ageless in her memory despite the passage of time.


    "Uncle Lan, after advancing to Core Formation, have you grown to disdain my master? Do you think she¡¯s no longer worthy of you?"


    True to her straightforward nature, Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s question was sharp and direct, cutting straight to the heart of the matter.


    "No," Lan Chang¡¯an denied immediately. He offered an example: "Take your Uncle Ergou, for instance. He was born a farmer and is still stuck in the early Foundation Establishment stage. Over the past hundred years, have you ever heard of me treating him lightly?"


    "Hmm, that¡¯s true," Zhao Tan¡¯er murmured, wrinkling her delicate nose as she considered this.


    Indeed, when it came to old friendships, Lan Chang¡¯an was beyond reproach.


    He had always looked out for the descendants of his old friends, such as Lin Lu from back in the day and more recently Li Congren.


    Even Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s Foundation Establishment Pill had been partly funded by Lan Chang¡¯an¡¯s efforts.


    "If you don¡¯t disdain her, then why don¡¯t you take master as your wife? If you feel absolutely no affection for her, then just pretend I didn¡¯t ask," Zhao Tan¡¯er said, pressing on.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Lan Chang¡¯an had faced this question, and he was well-prepared for it.


    "The cultivation world is ever-changing. A Core Formation cultivator is only at the threshold of the high ranks. While we may seem impressive, in the grand schemes of the cultivation world, we¡¯re little more than pawns. One misstep, and we face utter ruin."


    "Only a Nascent Soul True Monarch can transcend the chessboard and take control of their own fate. Otherwise, our lives are not our own, and danger is ever-present. When one''s fate is at stake, how would one dare to take a wife and have children?"


    Zhao Tan¡¯er stared at him, her round, bright eyes wide with shock. She opened her mouth as if to argue but found herself at a loss for words.


    After all, the recent wars in the cultivation world had imed the lives of more than a few Core Formation cultivators.


    The impending invasion of the Six Demonic Sects would undoubtedly be even more devastating and terrifying.


    And Lan Chang¡¯an¡¯s reputation as the "Talisman Master Turtle" wasn¡¯t baseless¡ªhis caution and tendency to avoid risks were well-known.


    ...


    Lan Chang¡¯an stayed in Jin Yun Valley for a few days, and Zhao Siyao still hadn''te out.


    He sighed softly, choosing not to press the matter further, and bid farewell to Zhang Tieshan, Zhao Tan¡¯er, and others.


    "Uncle Lan, are you truly unwilling to see my master onest time?" Zhao Tan¡¯er asked, her lips pursed in dissatisfaction.


    For many years, she had been exasperated by theck of initiative between her master and Lan Chang¡¯an¡ªtwo people who both stubbornly refused to take the first step when it came to feelings.


    "It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to¡­" Lan Chang¡¯an began but suddenly paused, a flicker of inspiration shing through his mind.


    "Tan¡¯er, ask your master to meet me just outside Jin Yun Valley."


    Hearing this, Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s face lit up with a sweet smile. "Got it!" she replied cheerfully before vanishing like a wisp of smoke, heading straight for Zhao Siyao¡¯s cave abode.


    Lan Chang¡¯an said no more. He turned and flew out of Jin Yun Valley.


    ...


    In the mountains several dozen li away from the valley¡­


    A cool mountain breeze stirred Lan Chang¡¯an¡¯s white robes as he stood, waiting amidst the rugged terrain.


    It wasn¡¯t long¡ªno more than a quarter of an hour¡ªbefore a streak of light, radiating the aura of a Fake Dan cultivator, broke through the sky from the direction of Jin Yun Valley.


    In his field of vision appeared a tall, graceful female cultivator d in flowing white robes. Her immortal-like dress billowed gently in the breeze, entuating her ethereal beauty.


    Decades had passed since theirst meeting, and Zhao Siyao had subtly changed.


    She appeared to be in her early thirties, her hair swept into an elegant updo secured with a phoenix hairpin. Her demeanor was calm and poised, her features refined and mature, with an air of quiet sophistication.


    "Fellow Daoist Zhao, it has been a long time. My visit to Jin Yun Valley must have disrupted your seclusion," Lan Chang¡¯an said with a polite smile, sping his hands in greeting.


    He had guessed correctly. Zhao Siyao¡¯s refusal toe out of seclusion wasn¡¯t because she didn¡¯t want to see him, but rather because she felt uneasy about it.


    If Lan Chang¡¯an had insisted on meeting her, Zhao Siyao wouldn¡¯t have refused.


    Her nature was straightforward and generous, not one to hold petty grudges.


    Besides, the two of them had always been friends¡ªdeeply bonded through years of camaraderie. Their rtionship wasn¡¯t one of those situations where a romantic entanglement, once exposed, would lead to an irreversible estrangement.


    "Fellow Daoist Lan, you¡¯ve advanced to the True Dan stage, and yet I didn¡¯t greet you to offer my congrattions. That was thoughtless of me," Zhao Siyao said with a light, self-deprecating smile. Seeing her familiar old friend, she inexplicably felt a sense of relief, her clear eyes softening with warmth.


    She carried herself with grace as she returned his greeting, her white robes fluttering gently in the cool mountain wind, outlining a figure both elegant and captivating.


    "It was just a lighthearted joke. There¡¯s no need for you to dwell on it," Lan Chang¡¯an said calmly as he flew closer to Zhao Siyao.


    "I was simply lucky to stumble upon a fortuitous opportunity that allowed me to barely achieve True Dan. Fellow Daoist Zhao, on the other hand, has done an extraordinary job training a disciple who has also attained a True Dan," he added.


    "There¡¯s no need to console me," Zhao Siyao said, shaking her head slightly. "Forming a Fake Dan was well within my expectations. It¡¯s simply my fate that Ick the ability to break through my own shackles."


    Zhao Siyao was well aware of the difference between a Fake Dan and a True Dan.


    One marked the end of the road, while the other still held hope for reaching even greater heights.


    After all these years, she hade to terms with her reality.


    Fortunately, her disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er, had excelled beyond expectations, bing a True Dan cultivator under her guidance. It was a small source offort and pride.


    "A Fake Dan cultivator with a lifespan of more than three hundred years, the rest of your life is still long. If Fellow Daoist Zhao is content with her current circumstances, living a peaceful life or perhaps establishing a family of immortal cultivators wouldn¡¯t be a bad path," Lan Chang¡¯an said.


    He understood that Zhao Siyao¡¯s achievements were already within the expectations of those around her.


    The sense of regret only arose whenpared to others¡ªan old friend with lesser talent who had achieved True Dan, and a personal disciple who had surpassed her.


    For most lower-tier cultivators in the cultivation world, forming a Fake Dan was already an unattainable pinnacle.


    "Establishing a family¡­ I have no interest in such things," Zhao Siyao said, shaking her head slightly. "Tan¡¯er is enough¡ªshe¡¯s like a daughter to me."


    If she didn¡¯t truly like someone, or if they didn¡¯t share the same aspirations, she¡¯d rather remain alone. Having Zhao Tan¡¯er by her side was more than sufficient.


    "If Fellow Daoist Zhao is unwilling to ept this fate and still holds a shred of hope for the Dao, willing to risk everything, I could offer a potential path¡­"


    "The path of Core Reformation?"


    "Yes. Fellow Daoist Zhang is willing to provide the Core Dissolution Technique and his personal insights from his sess," Lan Chang¡¯an said.


    "Forget it. I appreciate both of your kindness," Zhao Siyao said after a moment of contemtion. Her bright eyes briefly lit up with hope before dimming once more, settling into a calm serenity.


    "I failed thirty years ago, and now, at this age, my potential has diminished. There¡¯s no need to trouble anyone or cause Tan¡¯er unnecessary worry¡­"


    The truth was, even if she were given another chance, and even with a genuine Crystal Condensation Pill, she wasn¡¯t confident she¡¯d seed in forming a True Dan.


    ...


    The two of them continued their conversation for a long time, eventually settling down on arge rock to sit side by side.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, their shadows stretched out behind them, the distance between them growing so small it was as though they were a pair of Daoist partners leaning on one another.


    Lan Chang¡¯an broke the silence. "Of the immortal seedlings who left Hengshui Prefecture back then, only you, I, and Li Erqing remain."


    "Li Erqing¡­ He has no more than twenty years of lifespan left. I n to visit him," Lan Chang¡¯an said, recalling the letter Li Erqing¡¯s grandson had sent him in Jing Kingdom years ago.


    Li Erqing had expressed a heartfelt wish: to see his old friend, Lan Chang¡¯an, onest time in this lifetime.


    Back then, the cultivation wars were raging, and Li Erqing had feared he would never get the chance to meet Lan Chang¡¯an again.


    "I¡¯ll go with you," Zhao Siyao said softly, her face filled with a distant nostalgia.


    "Alright, let¡¯s head out now," Lan Chang¡¯an said as he took her hand.


    They rose into the air together, carried by the wind.


    A streak of azure light enveloped the pair, his white robes and her white dress blending as they ascended into the skies above.


    "This is my first time in the Nine Fiery Heavens," Zhao Siyao said, her bright eyes sparkling with joy as she took in the breathtaking view of the uncharted winds above the clouds.


    "Oh, I nearly forgot to tell you something," Zhao Siyao suddenly said, turning to look at Lan Chang¡¯an. "Fairy Shi once came to see me and left a message for you."


    "Oh? What did she say?"


    "She said there¡¯s something very important she must tell you. Once you return to the Liang Kingdom, you must seek her out."


    "When was this?"


    "Over twenty years ago."

 Chapter 267: Overseas Tracking

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Less than a day had passed.


    A man and a woman, both dressed in white robes, descended gracefully from the clouds like an immortal couple.


    In their view, the outline of a vastke expanded continuously. Under the brilliance of the morning light, its shimmering surface glistened like jade and emerald.


    Lan Chang''an looked down at the familiar Feiyue Lake, the spiritual vein dojo where he had first embarked on his path to immortality in this life.


    Zhao Siyao gazed at the man¡¯s side profile. She could sense the special feelings Lan Chang''an shared with Feiyue Lake.


    ¡°Core Formation Immortal!¡±


    The pair made no effort to conceal their cultivation, and the faint spiritual pressure emanating from them was felt by the cultivators of the Mu Family below at Feiyue Lake.


    The n-protecting formation activated briefly, causing a momentary flurry of panic.¡°Uncle Lan!¡±


    ¡°Big Brother!¡±


    Soon, from the central Moonheart Ind in Feiyue Lake, two waves of Foundation Establishment-level spiritual energy surged into the air.


    Leading the way was a female cultivator in thete Foundation Establishment stage, appearing to be nearly thirty years old.


    She wore a dark blue gown, her features were elegant, and her bearing was dignified. Her figure had grown slightly fuller over the years.


    This was none other than Mu Bingyun, the current Grand Elder of the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake.


    Following closely behind her was an elderly man, stooped with age and moving a bit slower.


    ¡°Erqing?¡±


    Lan Chang''an stared at the white-haired elder before him. Despite the wrinkles and aged demeanor, he recognized the familiar facial contours.


    ¡°Greetings, Uncle Lan. Greetings, Senior Zhao.¡±


    Mu Bingyun slowed her pace and bowed respectfully.


    She stood to the side, watching the reunion between the elder and the younger man.


    The aged Li Erqing, his face lined with wrinkles and his eyes brimming with tears, shakily grasped Lan Chang''an''s arm.


    The scene was peculiar: an old man trembling as he clung to the arm of a young man in white, whose demeanor was calm and whose Core Formation aura was carefully restrained. The young man smiled gently as he patted the old man¡¯s shoulder.


    In the cultivation world, however, such sights were not umon.


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s clear, calm eyes wavered slightly as she observed the familiar figure. Ripples appeared in her gaze, but they quickly subsided, returning to stillness.


    ¡°Little Brother forgot to congratte Big Brother on forming your Core¡­¡±


    Li Erqing, now moreposed, cupped his hands in a congrattory gesture.


    ¡°Congrattions to Uncle Lan on reaching Core Formation. May your lifespan rival the southern mountains and your immortal path remain evergreen,¡± said Mu Bingyun with a radiant smile.


    Lan Chang''an nced at Mu Bingyun and nodded. ¡°Managing such arge family has not been easy for you all these years.¡±


    Mu Bingyun had changed significantly.


    Having served as the ancestor of the Mu Family for decades, she had endured the brutalities of the cultivation world. She now exuded an air of maturity and regal elegance, carrying the faint authority of a Foundation Establishment elder.


    But gaines with loss.


    The youthful purity and grace she once possessed had been worn away; the spirited aura of the girl she used to be had long been eroded.


    Cultivators like Zhao Tan¡¯er, who could maintain their sincerity and innocence, were exceedingly rare in the world of cultivation.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao, you¡¯re here as well,¡± Li Erqing remarked with a look of relief when he noticed Zhao Siyao apanying Lan Chang''an.


    Under the respectful gazes of the Mu Family cultivators, the four of them chatted amiably as they flew toward Moonheart Ind.


    Lan Chang''an observed Li Erqing¡¯s aura and estimated that he would not live past two hundred years. He likely had another twenty years or so left in his lifespan.


    Years ago, Li Erqing had suffered severe injuries during a cultivation war.


    Though he recovered after a year or two of rest, the damage had still taken a toll on his longevity.


    ¡­


    Within the cave abode on Moonheart Ind.


    Lan Chang''an sat in the seat of honor, and the four of them reminisced about the past together.


    ¡°Big Brother Lan, to see you again before my lifespan runs out¡­ I have no more regrets in this life,¡± Li Erqing said with a heartyugh. Despite his aged face, it seemed to glow with vitality, like a fleeting burst of radiance before the end.


    From a mere farmer¡¯s boy to his current position, Li Erqing had built a family and seen it thrive within the world of cultivation. He was already deeply content.


    Indeed, Li Erqing¡¯s personal aplishments were not remarkable.


    But his grandson, Li Congren, was at thete Foundation Establishment stage and had founded a family of cultivators bearing the Li name.


    Meanwhile, his son, Mu Jiuan, though distant in their rtionship, had reached the Fake Dan stage decades ago. Within the Golden Sun Sect, Mu Jiuan held some status and connections.


    ¡°You¡¯re nothing but old bones now. Control your emotions and avoid major ups and downs, or it will affect your remaining lifespan,¡± Lan Chang''an warned as he observed the elder''s flush of excitement.


    ¡°I¡¯m just too happy to see you, Big Brother,¡± Li Erqing replied nonchntly.


    Every time he reunited with Lan Chang''an, he felt as though he had returned to Jin Yun Valley 150 years ago.


    Back then, he was just a farmer boy awakened by the crowing of a hen in the illusion of the third trial.


    Though Li Erqing had many descendants, Lan Chang''an was the only one who had apanied him through the years, witnessing his entire life.


    From a farmer boy to a prosperous middle-aged man, and finally to his twilight years.


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an had gained a deeper understanding of the current state of the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake.


    The Mu Family¡¯s situation was decent. Though its growth rate couldn¡¯tpare to the Li Family at Snow Plum Mountain, it was stable and free of hidden dangers.


    This stability was owed to several factors:


    First, Feiyue Lake now had three Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    In addition to Li Erqing and Mu Bingyun, there was also a newly advanced Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Second, their rtionship with the Golden Sun Sect was favorable.


    Back then, with Mu Jiuan¡¯s support, the Mu Family had submitted to the sect, offering up a Youth Retaining Pill in exchange for favorable treatment.


    After Mu Jiuan became a Fake Dan cultivator, he naturally extended some protection to the Mu Family.


    Moreover, Mu Bingyun had formed a Daopanion rtionship with an inner disciple of the Golden Sun Sect at the Foundation Establishment stage, and they had even had a child together.


    This meant Feiyue Lake had gained additional external support.


    As long as they proceeded cautiously and the Golden Sun Sect did not fall, the Mu Family would not face any major crises for the next century or two.


    During their casual conversation, Lan Chang''an also learned confirmed news about Wuqi Mountain.


    Wuqi Mountain, the spiritual vein site of Jin Yun Valley, had undergone no significant changes.


    The Little Turtle Peak remained as it was, its name unaltered, and the mountain continued to be leased by the old caretaker, Qi Feng.


    Both Mu Bingyun and Li Erqing had high praise for Qi Feng, describing him as skilled in dealing with others, possessing a steadfast Dao heart, and having abundantbat experience.


    Qi Feng¡¯s escort team had even coborated with the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake in the past.


    ¡­


    Lan Chang''an stayed at Feiyue Lake for several days.


    During this time, both Li Erqing and Mu Bingyun visited him privately.


    Li Erqing mainly came to reminisce about old times or discuss topics rted to his children and family.


    Mu Bingyun, on the other hand, sought advice on talisman crafting and cultivation. She also showed a nostalgic fondness for the time she spent as a servant girl on Little Turtle Peak all those years ago.


    Through these discussions, Lan Chang''an realized that Mu Bingyun''s cultivation progress had slowed significantly since reaching thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    The benefits she had received from Lan Chang''an in the past¡ªwhen he had nurtured her body and repaired her foundations¡ªhad now been almost entirely depleted.


    With her mid-grade spiritual roots, her current aplishments were already respectable and had fulfilled the expectations of her former master, Mu Xiuyun.


    However, after marrying and having children, and spending most of her time overseeing the family, Mu Bingyun had grownfortable andcked the ambition to strive forward with fierce determination.


    After Lan Chang''an left her life, she had not encountered any major opportunities to improve further.


    During her final visit, Mu Bingyun brought along a handsome young boy dressed in white. He was only fifteen years old and had just reached the early Qi-Refining stage.


    The boy¡¯s name was Mu Changxiu.


    ¡°Changxiu?¡±


    Hearing the name, Lan Chang''an silently repeated it in his heart and guessed the meaning behind Mu Bingyun''s choice of name.


    ¡°Greetings, Grandpa Lan.¡±


    Mu Changxiu knelt and kowtowed deeply to Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°This jade has nourishing effects on the body. This is Grandpa Lan''s meeting gift to you,¡± said Lan Chang''an, as he handed over a second-rank spirit jade.


    ¡°Thank you, Grandpa Lan.¡±


    Despite his young age, Mu Changxiu understood the prestige of a Core Formation cultivator. He was extremely respectful, and his eyes shone with admiration and longing.


    After Mu Bingyun and her son left, Lan Chang''an''s expression carried a hint of surprise.


    Mu Changxiu bore some resemnce to him in both appearance and temperament, particrly in his white robes.


    It wasn¡¯t untilter that Lan Chang''an learned the truth: Mu Bingyun''s husband in the Golden Sun Sect happened to look somewhat like him.


    The next morning.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao bid farewell to the Mu Family.


    As they flew through the clouds and gained some distance, the two exchanged a nce and a smile, parting ways with a silent understanding born of over a century ofpanionship.


    ...


    Journeying to Wuqi Mountain.


    As he traveled toward Wuqi Mountain, Lan Chang''an found himself reminiscing about the four people he had once befriended at Jin Yun Valley.


    ¡°In the end, I still influenced their fates¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an knew that, despite not deliberately interfering, his asional actions had inevitably altered their lives.


    Without him, Zhao Siyao and Li Erqing, who both started without any background in the cultivation world, would have faced far greater difficulties, especially in their early stages of cultivation.


    For instance, Zhao Siyao had once faced exploitation within her sect. Without the treasure talisman he had given her, she would have already perished on the battlefield.


    Li Erqing¡¯s life had been saved by another life-saving talisman during a family conflict. While fleeing, he had fallen and broken his leg but survived.


    As for Lin Yi, the young marquis, his independent spirit meant he was influenced the least by Lan Chang''an. However, he was also the first among them to die.


    Now, Li Erqing¡¯s cultivation path had reached its end, and he had less than twenty years left to live. Zhao Siyao still had over a hundred years of lifespan remaining, though her chances of further breakthroughs were slim.


    Staring toward the northern horizon, Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze grew deep.


    ¡°The person I am now is just a long-lived cultivator who is no longer a part of the lower echelons of the cultivation world, but I am far from being someone mighty.¡±


    Even great cultivators, after a long life, would inevitably leave behind some regrets.


    Half a dayter.


    Surrounded by clouds and mist, the familiar Wuqi Mountain appeared in Lan Chang''an¡¯s sight.


    The overall outline of Wuqi Mountain had not changed much.


    However, several damaged peaks in the surrounding area seemed to serve as scars of the ¡°Golden Sun Northern Relocation¡± cultivation war that had taken ce.


    Perhaps due to efforts to cultivate the spiritual veins, the quality of Wuqi Mountain¡¯s spiritual energy had improvedpared to the past.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s powerful True Dan aura quickly alerted the cultivators residing on the mountain.


    Little Pill Peak, Xiao Pan Peak, and Little Turtle Peak¡ªthe three main peaks¡ªwere each protected by formations and housed Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The master of Little Pill Peak had the highest cultivation among them, being in thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    ¡°True Dan aura!¡±


    ¡°Lan¡­ Lan Chang''an!?¡±


    On Little Pill Peak, a middle-aged alchemist with a neatly trimmed beard and dressed in green robes widened his eyes in disbelief.


    Ye Fei, who lived in rtive seclusion and often immersed himself in alchemy, had not yet heard the news of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Core Formation breakthrough.


    In the Golden Sun Sect, spanning six major sects and ten great families, there were still a fair number of Core Formation cultivators.


    For ordinary cultivators, especially those at the lower levels, the emergence of a new Core Formation cultivator in a neighboring kingdom was often unnoticed. Many had even forgotten that Lan Chang''an had left Liang Kingdom and gone to Jing Kingdom.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Ye, it¡¯s been thirty years. How have you been? It seems you are now the most senior figure in Wuqi Mountain,¡± Lan Chang''an greeted him with a heartyugh, his tone tinged with yful teasing.


    Years ago, it was Lan Chang''an who had approved Ye Fei to be one of the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain.


    At the time, Ye Fei was the youngest and least experienced of the three. Now, he had be the de facto leader of the mountain.


    ¡°I-Immortal Lan, you overpraise me!¡±


    Ye Fei snapped out of his daze and immediately flew out of Little Pill Peak to greet Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°No matter the past or the present, you will always be my great elder brother. You may call me ¡®Little Ye,¡¯ as always,¡± Ye Fei said with a ttering smile, clearly excited. He enthusiastically invited Lan Chang''an to visit Little Pill Peak for tea.


    At this moment, the other two peak masters had also been alerted by themotion and came out to pay their respects to the Core Formation cultivator.


    The master of Xiao Pan Peak was a middle-aged woman at the early Foundation Establishment stage.


    Lan Chang''an found her vaguely familiar, as if she was one of the maidservants who served Fairy Shi back then?


    The master of Little Turtle Peak, on the other hand, was a robust man in leather armor, exuding a calm and steady aura.


    ¡°Grandpa Lan! You¡¯re back!¡±


    The burly man was none other than Qi Feng, who, upon seeing the white-robed man who had remained unchanged over thirty years, became emotional, his eyes misting over.


    Qi Feng, the mountain caretaker, was a descendant of Lan Chang''an¡¯s adoptive father in this life. Blessed with spiritual roots, Qi Feng had embarked on the path of immortality using the Origin-Opening Scripture left behind by Lan Chang''an.


    Later, Guan Qiaozhi, unable to walk the immortal path herself, had returned to the secr world and became Qi Feng¡¯s immortal guide, much like how Master Guan had once guided Lan Chang''an to immortality.


    Before leaving Liang Kingdom atop his turtle mount, Lan Chang''an had left Qi Feng with a chance to reach Foundation Establishment and a collection of cultivation insights.


    In addition, the two old second-rank puppets that guarded his former cave abode had been left behind at Little Turtle Peak.


    Politely declining Ye Fei¡¯s invitation, Lan Chang''an instead followed Qi Feng to Little Turtle Peak.


    ...


    ¡°Qi Feng, you have not disappointed Grandpa Lan.¡±


    Lan Chang''an nced at Qi Feng, then surveyed the environment of Little Turtle Peak, a satisfied expression appearing on his face.


    Qi Feng had reached the third level of Foundation Establishment, and his spiritual energy was solid and stable.


    His spiritual sense was tough and cultivation speed rivaled that of those with mid-grade spiritual roots. It seemed that Qi Feng had encountered some fortuitous opportunities while venturing in the outside world.


    The generalyout of Little Turtle Peak remained unchanged from years ago.


    ...


    Squeak! Squeak!


    Plop! Plop!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat and the Profound Water Turtle leapt out from Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual pet pouch, thrilled to return to the familiar surroundings of the peak.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat burrowed into the mountain, quickly finding the tunnels it had dug years ago still intact.


    The Profound Water Turtlezily lounged beside a pond, content and rxed, instinctively gazing toward a specific direction as if recalling old memories.


    Toward the back of the mountain, Lan Chang''an¡¯s sharp senses detected two graves.


    One of the tombstones bore the inscription: ¡°The tomb of Lady Guan Qiaozhi.¡±


    ¡°These are Aunt Guan and Rou¡¯er¡¯s graves,¡± Qi Feng exined in a somber tone as he introduced the two resting ces.


    Upon hearing the story, Lan Chang''an came to understand what had happened.


    Years after Lan Chang''an left the Liang Kingdom, Guan Qiaozhi had passed away.


    The orphaned mortal children she had adopted buried her. Later, when Qi Feng became the master of Little Turtle Peak, he relocated her grave to this mountain.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    As for those orphans Guan Qiaozhi had cared for, two or three of them had turned out to have spiritual roots. Qi Feng had guided them onto the path of cultivation and carefully nurtured them, eventually recruiting them into his personal escort team.


    The second grave belonged to Lan Rou, a maidservant of Little Turtle Peak in the past.


    After Lan Chang''an¡¯s departure, Qi Feng and Lan Rou had married.


    Lan Rou eventually cultivated to Qi-Refining Stage ninthyer,parable in age to Guan Qiaozhi when she attempted Foundation Establishment. Qi Feng obtained an inferior Foundation Establishment Pill in the hopes of helping her breakthrough.


    Unfortunately, Lan Rou failed her attempt to reach Foundation Establishment. The bacsh severely damaged her health, and she passed away a few yearster.


    ¡°Truly a man of loyalty and devotion,¡± Lan Chang''an said in his heart, and he felt a little more appreciation for Qi Feng, the mountain guardian.


    ¡°Next, Grandpa Lan will be staying at Little Turtle Peak for some time. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t freeload off you,¡± Lan Chang''an remarked with a smile during avish dinner in the cave dwelling.


    One of the reasons he chose to remain here was to wait for Fairy Shi.


    About twenty years ago, Shi Manrong had left a message with Zhao Siyao, iming there was an important matter she needed to discuss.


    Lan Chang''an had no desire to actively search for her whereabouts.


    Now that he had returned to his homnd with the status of a True Dan cultivator, word of his presence would quickly spread across the Liang Kingdom.


    If the matter Shi Manrong wanted to discuss was indeed important, she would naturallye to Wuqi Mountain to find him.


    ¡°Grandpa Lan, you will always be the true master of Little Turtle Peak. Stay as long as you wish,¡± Qi Feng replied, his excitement barely contained. He could not have hoped for a better oue.


    ...


    In the days that followed, Qi Feng served Lan Chang''an in the manner of a devoted junior.


    Besides Qi Feng, a few of his trusted subordinates also resided on Little Turtle Peak.


    The main chamber of Lan Chang''an¡¯s former cave manor had been leftpletely untouched by Qi Feng. This wasn¡¯t ast-minute gesture to impress but rather a reflection of his genuine reverence for Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an, taking some free time, offered Qi Feng guidance on his cultivation and even repaired the two damaged second-rank puppets that had been left behind.


    Each session of advice was like a revtion to Qi Feng. Every word from Lan Chang''an seemed to strike at the core of his cultivation challenges.


    ¡°Truly a great Core Formation powerhouse,¡± Qi Feng thought in awe.


    He couldn¡¯t help butpare Lan Chang''an with Ye Fei, the neighboring peak master. The difference was like heaven and earth.


    Despite humbling himself and offering gifts to Ye Fei in the past, the advice he received was nowhere near as effective as Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    Qi Feng did not receive guidance from other Immortals, and failed to realize that such deliberate and insightful guidance could be called a once-in-a-lifetime blessing.


    ...


    Seven dayster.


    A surge of Fake Dan-level spiritual energy approached Little Turtle Peak. Soon, a graceful and elegant figure descended.


    ¡°Fairy Shi!¡±


    The peak masters of Wuqi Mountain, along with the affiliated cultivators from the outer peaks, immediately recognized the neer.


    Among them were many who gazed at her with admiration.


    Shi Manrong, dressed in a moonlight-colored gown, had an air of refined elegance that entuated her curvaceous figure.


    Her high bun framed her beautiful, round face, while her calm and dignified demeanor made her seem as untouchable as a pure chrysanthemum.


    Thanks to the Youth Retaining Pill she had obtained in a transaction with Lan Chang''an, coupled with her advancement to the Fake Dan stage, Shi Manrong¡¯s appearance had remained unchanged from decades ago.


    ¡°Fairy Shi, I have been waiting here for days,¡± Lan Chang''an said as he stepped out of the cave manor on Little Turtle Peak, dressed in his usual white robes and smiling warmly.


    ¡°To think that the renowned Evergreen Immortal would personally wait for me¡ªI¡¯m unworthy,¡± Shi Manrong replied, biting her lower lip lightly. Her tone carried a faint trace of displeasure.


    Seeing the familiar, unchanging figure of the jade-like man in white, her emotions were subtly stirred.


    Lan Chang''an chuckled, understanding her mild annoyance at his abrupt departure all those years ago.


    Over the past three decades, the cultivation world of Liang Kingdom had undergone significant changes. Even the most powerful Nascent Soul faction had been overthrown.


    Due to the chaos of war and disrupted cross-bordermunications, Shi Manrong had spent a long time uncertain of whether Lan Chang''an was dead or alive.


    ¡­


    In the tea room of the cave manor.


    Perhaps due to the long years of separation, Lan Chang''an and Shi Manrong treated each other with formal courtesy.


    Shi Manrong sat with impable grace, exuding an air of elegance andposure. Her gaze was as tranquil as still water, seemingly devoid of the interest she once held in Lan Chang''an.


    As a Fake Dan cultivator and a third-rank formation master, her identity naturally carried a noble and unapproachable aura that made others feel unworthy of her presence.


    Lan Chang''an understood this distance; after so many years apart, some estrangement was only natural.


    Although he and Shi Manrong had always gotten along well, their rtionship had never gone beyond a fleeting connection, more akin to a passing romance than any deep emotional bond.


    Thisck ofmitment allowed for great freedom¡ªneither side had to restrain the other or bear any responsibility.


    After some small talk, the two exchanged ounts of their lives over the years.


    As a third-rank formation master, Shi Manrong was highly sought after in the Liang Kingdom. She maintained long-term coborations with several immortal cities andrge families, cultivating an extensivework of connections.


    ...


    ¡°Fairy Shi, before leaving the ancient ruins all those years ago, I once advised you¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an gradually turned the conversation to the matter that had been on his mind.


    ¡°After Fellow Daoist Lan left, I continued studying the formations within the ruins and eventually became a third-rank formation master. Before I departed the ruins, I followed your suggestion to copse the ancient remnant formation in the core of the ruins.¡±


    ¡°And the treasury space within?¡±


    ¡°It copsed along with it,¡± Shi Manrong replied tly.


    Thanks to her deep understanding of the ancient ruin''s formations and the inheritance she received, Shi Manrong was able to precisely dismantle the core array with minimal effort.


    ¡°Well done, Fairy Shi. You handled it beautifully.¡±


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly in relief.


    Shi Manrong¡¯s expression, however, turned serious. ¡°But I do have some bad news to share with Fellow Daoist Lan.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Was something overlooked back then?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s brows furrowed slightly.


    In truth, with his current status and cultivation, as long as he did not expose the secrets of the Xuanmu Vine or the Five Element Earth, there should be no cause for trouble.


    Opportunities like ancient ruin inheritances were not umon in the cultivation world.


    ording to the intelligence from Unseen Gate, Lan Chang''an''s sess in Core Formation was attributed to a fortuitous opportunity he encountered within the ruins. To higher-level cultivators, the potential rewards from such ruins¡ªvaluable to lower and mid-tier cultivators¡ªwere of little significance.


    However, the seriousness in Shi Manrong¡¯s tone caught his attention.


    ¡°This matter¡­¡±


    Shi Manrong¡¯s expression grew solemn as she surveyed their surroundings. She motioned for Lan Chang''an, who was at the Core Formation Realm, toy down a tight restriction.


    After heplied, she leaned forward slightly, her lips moving silently as she began transmitting her voice directly into Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind.


    ¡°Tinghai Pavilion? The Nascent Soul-level sect from the coastal regions of the Heaven Honoured Continent? Didn¡¯t they once have close to ten Nascent Soul cultivators, including ate-stage Nascent Soul Great Cultivator?¡±


    At first, Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression remained calm. However, as Shi Manrong continued, his face suddenly froze in shock.


    ¡°What?! A Deity Transformation cultivator?¡±


    The information Shi Manrong shared made Lan Chang''an¡¯s scalp tingle, and a chill ran down his spine.


    It turned out that after Lan Chang''an had left, Shi Manrong had broken through another set of restrictions in the core area of the ruins.


    Within a certain pavilion, she discovered a jade scroll, akin to a journal, containing additional intelligence about Tinghai Pavilion.


    ording to the jade scroll, the ancient ruin had once served as a refuge for the Tinghai Pavilion. However, during its time as a sanctuary, it had been tracked down by an overseas force, specifically a Deity Transformation cultivator.


    ...


    Deity Transformation Heavenly Lord!


    In two lifetimes of cultivation, Lan Chang''an had never encountered one. He hadn¡¯t even heard of any confirmed appearances of such figures.


    Even across the vast Heaven Honoured Continent, only the ancient and mysterious Central State or the Fenghua Province, home of the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty, could possibly produce such unparalleled experts.


    For regions like the Liang Kingdom or its neighbors, whether in his previous life¡¯s Great Kun or his current life in the Great Qing, theck of fifth-rank spiritual veins meant the emergence of a Deity Transformation Heavenly Lord was practically impossible.


    ...


    Shi Manrong¡¯s calm and confident voice broke the tension.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, there¡¯s no need to worry too much. ording to the jade scroll¡¯s writer, it was likely not the true body of the Deity Transformation Heavenly Lord that descended, but rather an avatar or projection of their power. Besides, so many years have passed since then¡ªwho knows if that Heavenly Lord is even still alive?¡±

 Chapter 268: Preparations for Core Reformation

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an agreed with Fairy Shi¡¯s perspective.


    The Deity Transformation Realm, also referred to as the Spirit Splitting stage, marked a natural progression in cultivation, where one could attain the mystical ability to manifest an avatar outside of their body.


    Even an avatar, however, would far surpass the strength of an ordinaryte-stage Nascent Soul Great Cultivator.


    Typically, cultivators at the Deity Transformation stage could live for around three thousand years. Even with various longevity-extending elixirs, their lifespan would only deviate by a few thousand years at most.


    The underground ruins within the ck Fog Mountain Range were once the dwelling ce of an ancient civilization.


    Over countless years, through the vicissitudes of time and the changing of the world, the ruins were discovered by the "Tinghai Pavilion," a sect of the near-ancient era, and repurposed as a refuge and a backup treasure trove.


    Based on the timeline of the Tinghai Pavilion, the ruins could be anywhere from several thousand to over ten thousand years old.


    Unless the Deity Transformation cultivator in question also practiced the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, it would be nearly impossible for them to survive until today.Thus, judging by the timeline, the threat posed by that Deity Transformation Heavenly Lord was almost nonexistent.


    ¡°Why did that Deity Transformation Heavenly Lord pursue the Tinghai Pavilion? Is there any record about this?¡±


    Lan Chang''an faintly sensed a hypothesis forming in his heart. Why would a powerful Deity Transformation Heavenly Lord chase after the Tinghai Pavilion?


    The only thing on him that might exin it was the mysterious Xuanmu Vine he carried. Its rank and origins were beyond imagination.


    Even the Five Elemental Earth, which was attached to it, was merely a byproduct.


    Although the Five Elemental Earth was highly valuable and versatile, enough to entice a Nascent Soul True Monarch, it wasn¡¯t the kind of treasure one would risk everything to obtain.


    The only thing that was the most likely to draw the pursuit of a Deity Transformation Heavenly Lord was the vine itself.


    Fortunately, from years of observation, Lan Chang''an had discovered that the Xuanmu Vine had the innate ability to shield itself from divination and calctions.


    Perhaps because of this, the avatar of the Deity Transformation cultivator from that time had ultimately failed to track down its whereabouts.


    ¡°There is no specific description in the jade records,¡± Fairy Shi said thoughtfully. ¡°But judging from the situation, the Tinghai Pavilion likely possessed some kind of world-shaking treasure, which led to that Heavenly Lord¡¯s pursuit.¡±


    Her eyes flickered with a teasing glint as she nced at Lan Chang''an. ¡°Fellow Daoist Lan, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve obtained the object that the Deity Transformation cultivator was tracking?¡±


    ¡°What I obtained is something to form my Core. If I fail to form a Core, what use would I have for treasures coveted by Deity Transformation cultivators?¡±


    Lan Chang''an replied gruffly, his tone tinged with exasperation.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s true.¡±


    Fairy Shi nodded in agreement. When she first learned that Lan Chang''an had sessfully formed a True Dan, this was also her initial reaction.


    For something to entice a Deity Transformation cultivator, it would likely be a legendary spiritual treasure.


    A weapon above the Nascent Soul level would bepletely unmanageable for a mere Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    For cultivators, the priority of advancing one¡¯s realm far outweighed everything else.


    Back when they were in the treasury space, Fairy Shi¡¯s token couldn¡¯t ess the innermost treasures, so she chose the formation inheritance instead.


    As for the Xuanmu Vine, being a rumored legendary heaven and earth spiritual item, it was rarely detailed in ancient texts.


    Ordinary Xuanmu Vines that had appeared in recorded history were typically around the fourth rank, making them excellent materials for crafting wood-based magical treasures.


    But the fragment Lan Chang''an obtained was clearly no ordinary Xuanmu Vine. It might not even belong to the same species; it could be apletely different entity altogether.


    ¡°Once I¡¯m done with my Core Reformation, I¡¯ll need to visit the immortal cities to search through some ancient texts¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s regard for the withered gourd vine was growing.


    If he could restore it to life and nurture it sessfully, this lifetime might grant him the chance to reach even higher realms.


    ...


    That evening, Lan Chang''an and Fairy Shi conversed until dusk. Both were polite and respectful, with no inappropriate behavior between them.


    Fairy Shi carried herself with dignity and restraint,cking the intimacy and flirtation she once disyed.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind. After all, it had been many years since theyst met, and they weren¡¯t Daopanions. Naturally, their rtionship had grown distant.


    Moreover, Fairy Shi wasn¡¯t the type of woman who was inherently flirtatious.


    Back then, she had set aside propriety and humbled herself before Lan Chang''an partly because her life was out of her control and partly because they got along well. She admired him, and Lan Chang''an¡¯s appearance and demeanor were outstanding.


    If he had been an old and decrepit man, Fairy Shi likely would have sought another way to resolve her predicament.


    Fairy Shi didn¡¯t leave Wuqi Mountain but instead went to the neighboring peak, Xiao Pan Peak.


    The current peak master of Xiao Pan Peak was once Fairy Shi¡¯s personal maid. With Fairy Shi¡¯s guidance, she had advanced to the Foundation Establishment Realm and became a second-rank formation master.


    ¡°Hmph! So what if he¡¯s formed a True Dan? He¡¯s still as aloof and indifferent as ever, acting all high and mighty. In Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, there¡¯s no shortage of people pursuing me.¡±


    Back in her cave dwelling, Fairy Shi¡¯s elegant andposed demeanor faded. Her chest heaved with frustration as she fumed silently.


    Lan Chang''an had left without a word. Thirty years had passed without a single apology or message offort.


    If he wanted to rekindle their rtionship, how could he act so passive as a man?


    Shi Manrong couldn¡¯t help but wonder if the newly advanced True Dan cultivator, Lan Chang''an, now looked down on her or had found someone else.


    She had heard rumors about Lan Chang''an¡¯s return to Liang Kingdom.


    The person who had spent the most time with him recently was Zhao Siyao of Jin Yun Valley.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s temperament wasn¡¯t inferior to hers, and her beauty surpassed even hers. Moreover, Zhao Siyao¡¯s connection with Lan Chang''an ran much deeper.


    ...


    The next day.


    Lan Chang''an gathered with the three main peak masters of Wuqi Mountain, with Shi Manrong also among the invited.


    During the meeting, Lan Chang''an, as a True Dan cultivator, showed no signs of neglect or arrogance toward his old acquaintances.


    Of course, those who had no prior rtionship with him were not included in his considerations.


    Another day passed.


    Lan Chang''an took the initiative to visit Fairy Shi.


    Shi Manrong¡¯s mood eased slightly.


    It seemed Lan Chang''an had finallye to his senses¡ªshe still had her charm, after all.


    ¡°I hope I¡¯m not disturbing you, Fairy Shi! I suddenly recalled a damaged formation that I need your help with to repair and improve.¡±


    When Lan Chang''an arrived, he got straight to the point.


    From the spoils of his battle with Master Lihuo, he had obtained a partially damaged quasi-fourth-rank illusion formation.


    This formation wasn¡¯t affiliated with the me Departing Pce; it was a personal, makeshift array used by Master Lihuo.


    Originally designed as a fourth-rank formation, it had likely been damaged during a Nascent Soul battle.


    The array was particrly suited for ambushes, concealment, and defense against spiritual sense probing.


    However, the current version had arge range, consumed significant resources, was difficult to set up, and required high spiritual sense control from its operator.


    Lan Chang''an wanted to make it more portable, reduce its scope, and strengthen its ability to defend against spiritual sense detection.


    This was all preparation for his uing Core Reformation.


    ¡­


    ¡°Improving a quasi-fourth-rank formation? I fear Ick the ability,¡± Shi Manrong replied in a calm, professional tone. ¡°Even if I couldplete such a task, the cost of materials alone would be substantial.¡±


    Hearing Lan Chang''an¡¯s request, her demeanor grew colder, adopting the air of a business negotiation.


    After some back-and-forth bargaining...


    ¡°Fifty thousand spirit stones?!¡±


    Shi Manrong¡¯s final quoted price caused Lan Chang''an to frown deeply.


    Improving and repairing the formation¡ªespecially while reducing its range¡ªshouldn¡¯t require many resources.


    Shi Manrong, however, lightly pressed her lips together and replied leisurely, ¡°A quasi-fourth-rank formation is not something an average third-rank formation master can repair, let alone improve.¡±


    ¡°Given our decades of acquaintance, give me a reasonable price,¡± Lan Chang''an said, fully aware of Shi Manrong¡¯s prodigious talent in formation arts. But her asking price was absurd.


    Even a low-grade magical treasure would only cost ten or twenty thousand spirit stones.


    Shi Manrong sighed softly and replied with a tone that carried faint resentment, ¡°I¡¯d love to offer a friendly discount. But thirty years have passed, the world has changed, and Immortal Lan has transformed from a turtle into a dragon. You and I are no longer the closepanions we once were.¡±


    Lan Chang''an immediately caught on to her underlyingint. Her tone was tinged with emotion, a mix of me and grievance.


    ¡°What must I do for us to be closepanions again?¡± Lan Chang''an asked, knowing full well that Shi Manrong harbored some dissatisfaction about his abrupt departure decades ago and his current aloof attitude.


    Shi Manrong¡¯s gaze softened, her eyes glimmering like water as she let out a soft humph. ¡°That depends on whether Immortal Lan¡¯s actions can satisfy me¡­¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, a soft cry escaped her lips as her feet left the ground.


    Her voluptuous and graceful figure was suddenly lifted into the air by a single strong arm.


    ¡°Immortal Lan, what is the meaning of this?¡±


    Suspended mid-air, Shi Manrong protested softly, her expression a mix of embarrassment and indignation.


    Her silky ck hair partially obscured her flushed face, while her moonlight-colored dress billowed slightly. One of her phoenix-embroidered shoes slipped to the ground, revealing her lotus-like feet d in delicate silken stockings of icy silk.


    ¡°It¡¯s been thirty years since west met. Since Fairy Shi feels that we¡¯ve grown distant, naturally, this Immortal must deepen our bond.¡±


    Lan Chang''an chuckled lightly as he carried the stunned Shi Manrong to the nearby bed.


    ¡°Immortal Lan, please restrain yourself!¡±


    Shi Manrong¡¯s sweet and delicate voice was soon muffled by the soundproofing restrictions.


    Several hourster, the clouds over Wuqi Mountain scattered, and the moonlight bathed the undting peaks, covering them in a silvery frost-like glow.


    Inside the dimly lit chamber, the atmosphere wasnguid.


    ¡°Immortal Lan¡­ I was wrong¡­¡±


    Shi Manrongy limply on the ground, murmuring weakly. Her fair, smooth skin peeked out from beneath the disheveled silken bedding, revealing glimpses of her exquisite figure.


    ¡°Now that Fairy Shi seems satisfied, we can truly call ourselves close friends again. About the cost of improving and repairing the formation¡ªsurely we can agree on a fair price now.¡±


    Lan Chang''an, looking thoroughly refreshed, spoke slowly.


    After a few weak hums of protest, Shi Manrong relented, and they renegotiated the terms.


    ¡°Fifteen thousand spirit stones, including material costs. Hmm, that seems fair,¡± Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    Her original price of fifty thousand spirit stones had been pure extortion.


    Even at the agreed price, Shi Manrong would still earn a profit of at least two or three thousand spirit stones.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Shi Manrong left Wuqi Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an, meanwhile, calmly collected the refined set of formation tools.


    In this life, he wasing to understand a profound truth: no matter how noble or beautiful a woman might seem, spending too much time with her would inevitably lead to weariness.


    What¡¯s more, as someone who had undergone reincarnation and re-cultivated, Lan Chang''an¡¯s perspective had long changed. The dazzling flowers he encountered along his journey were destined to be fleeting.


    He could admire some of these flowers, even savor their fragrance.


    But he would never maliciously pick or trample them.


    ¡°All in all, this wasn¡¯t a loss,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    He tested the improved and repaired formation.


    ¡°The modified formation¡¯s range has been reduced by half, its setup speed is faster, and its illusionary power has increased by twenty percent. In terms of defense against spiritual sense probing, it has been restored to its original fourth-rank effectiveness.¡±


    Due to Shi Manrong¡¯s current limitations in formation techniques and the materials avable, she was unable to fully restore the array to itsplete fourth-rank state.


    However, the repaired formation no longer had any ring ws.


    If someone were to try breaking through the improved illusion formation, Lan Chang''an estimated they would need to spend double the effort and resourcespared to before.


    Even an ordinary True Dan cultivator would find it impossible to escape in a short time.


    ¡°Master Lan, here is the intelligence you requested on the major forces within Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.¡±


    From the shadows of the room, a man in a gray-white hooded robe spoke in a low, raspy voice.


    Xing Peng, who had been assigned to Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, had visited Lan Chang''an¡¯s secluded Little Turtle Peak twice before.


    His stealth abilities were exceptional¡ªneither Shi Manrong nor the three peak masters of Wuqi Mountain had detected his presence.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Xing Peng¡¯s ability to enjoy certain privileges within the ranks of the Unseen Gate wasn¡¯t solely due to his connections; his own professional skills were indeed extraordinary.


    ¡°Excellent. With this information, my ns for Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world will be much clearer.¡±


    Lan Chang''an examined the jade slip Xing Peng handed over, nodding in satisfaction.


    The jade slip contained detailed information on the major sects, noble families, and powers within the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom.


    While it didn¡¯t include highly ssified secrets, it was far moreprehensive than the knowledge of most lower-level cultivators.


    Xing Peng, suspecting nothing, assumed that Lan Chang''an¡ªrecently returned to his homnd¡ªsimply wanted to familiarize himself with Liang Kingdom¡¯s major forces to integrate himself or find a suitable faction to join.


    In reality, Lan Chang''an was preparing for his Core Reformation.


    ¡°In theing years, I¡¯ll be traveling around to gather materials and refine magical treasures. If anythinges up, I¡¯ll contact you directly,¡± Lan Chang''an said.


    After finalizing a secure means ofmunication, Xing Peng departed from Little Turtle Peak.


    ...


    Ten dayster, Lan Chang''an also departed from Wuqi Mountain.


    Before leaving, he gave a fair amount ofpensation to Qi Feng, the mountain caretaker, for freeloading these few days.


    One form of repayment was guidance on cultivation.


    Lan Chang''an also gifted Qi Feng a superior cultivation technique more suitable for his talents, enabling him to switch andpensate for the weaknesses of his previous cultivation method, which was typical of his background as a loose cultivator.


    In addition, he gave Qi Feng second-rank cultivation pills and a mid-grade second-rank defensive turtle puppet.


    These were items that were either useless or obsolete for Lan Chang''an but were an extraordinary boon for Qi Feng, who was only in the early Foundation Establishment Realm.


    The path of cultivation is akin to rolling a snowball.


    If a person has one standout trait¡ªbe it background, aptitude, or opportunity¡ªandbines it with determination and bold progress, they can roll their snowball quickly into greatness.


    By theter stages of cultivation, natural aptitude no longer ys as significant a role. However, the immense foundation and advantage established in the first hundred to two hundred years of cultivation are often unattainable for most cultivators.


    In reality, the vast majority of cultivators are not only ordinary in background and talent but alsock sufficient willpower.


    Even when opportunitiese their way, they often fail to seize them.


    In Qi Feng, Lan Chang''an saw a resilience and calm maturity reminiscent of Zhang Tieshan.


    Moreover, Qi Feng was the descendant of Lan Chang''an¡¯s adoptive father and held sincere admiration for him. This was why Lan Chang''an was willing to bestow such an opportunity upon him.


    If Qi Feng had been the type to cut corners orck diligence, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have bothered with him¡ªeven if he were a direct blood rtive.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    In front of the former Huanglong Immortal City, a burly middle-aged man with a thick beard descended from the skies.


    The man, who was at the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage, radiated a powerful aura as he flew. Cultivators passing by quickly stepped aside, bowing in respect.


    ¡°This Foundation Establishment senior has such a strong aura, he looks a bit familiar?¡±


    ¡°Wait¡­ doesn¡¯t he look like Senior Lu Chi, a loose cultivator who was active in the southeastern Liang Kingdom over twenty years ago?¡±


    ¡°Senior Lu Chi? I heard he defied orders, killed one of the me Departing Pce¡¯s enforcers, and was dered a fugitive. Didn¡¯t he flee the Liang Kingdom after that?¡±


    The once-wanted man, Lu Chi, swaggered into Huanglong Immortal City.


    The cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom was no longer under the control of the me Departing Pce, and with the fall of the ¡°previous dynasty,¡± the old warrants for fugitives were naturally nullified.


    ¡°Tsk tsk, they haven¡¯t even changed the name of Huanglong Immortal City. The interior, though, looks drastically different. The outer city has been almost entirely rebuilt.¡±


    The bearded middle-aged man, "Lu Chi," strolled leisurely through the immortal city, a faint smile on his face as he observed the changes to the city where he had spent many years in the past.


    After Huanglong Mountain withdrew from the city, its core resources were split between the me Departing Pce and a fewrge merchant guilds.


    The me Departing Pce had originally changed the city¡¯s name, but the surrounding cultivators continued to call it Huanglong Immortal City out of habit. A few yearster, the name-change effort was abandoned due to the war in Liang Kingdom.


    When the Golden Sun Sect took control of the Liang Kingdom, Huanglong Immortal City underwent yet another reshuffling. Its core resources and authority were divided among various merchant guilds, families, and sects.


    Even during the era of Huanglong Immortal, most of the city¡¯s shops and industries were owned by other powers.


    Huanglong Mountain primarily controlled the spiritual veins and administrative authority within the city.


    As Lu Chi wandered through the city, only one or two cultivators took the initiative to greet him¡ªone at thete Qi-Refining stage, the other at the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Lu Chi responded indifferently, casually exchanging a few words.


    ¡°The entire cultivation world of Liang Kingdom has changed. Huanglong Immortal City has been reshuffled, and hardly anyone recognizes ¡®me¡¯ anymore.¡±


    Lan Chang''an felt reassured.


    ¡°Lu Chi¡± was one of thete Foundation Establishment cultivators Lan Chang''an had killed during his journey back to Liang Kingdom.


    Although Lu Chi hadn¡¯t reached the peak of Foundation Establishment in cultivation, the difference was negligible for Lan Chang''an¡¯s purposes.


    Lu Chi was approaching 150 years old.


    While this was slightly on the older side for attempting Core Formation, it was still within the normal range.


    A sessful Core Formation at his age might draw mild surprise but wouldn¡¯t be unbelievable.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    Lan Chang''an entered a grand hall in the inner city of Huanglong Immortal City.


    This was the city¡¯s official administrative hall, responsible for managing the rental of spiritual veins and cultivation abodes.


    ¡°May I ask for the senior¡¯s name and the type of abode you wish to rent?¡±


    A slender female cultivator in a green dress with bright eyes and fine features stepped forward to greet Lan Chang''an.


    Ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator like him was considered a distinguished guest in most of the city¡¯s establishments.


    ¡°Lu Chi wants to rent a third-rank spiritual vein on Huanglong Mountain.¡±


    Lan Chang''an sat down, his voice deep and steady.


    ¡°A third-rank spiritual vein? How long would senior like to rent it for?¡±


    The female cultivator¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement as she leaned in slightly. She adjusted her skirt, half-kneeling as she poured tea for Lan Chang''an with great care.


    Third-rank spiritual veins were incredibly expensive to rent, and those who could afford them were rare, making Lan Chang''an a rare and highly valued client.


    ¡°About two months.¡±


    ¡°By the way, I n to attempt Core formation on Huanglong Mountain¡¯s third-rank spiritual vein. Please help me submit an application.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was unhurried, exuding confidence.


    For his first Core Reformation attempt, he chose Huanglong Immortal City specifically because it was a haven for loose cultivators in the Liang Kingdom. The application process for Core formation here was far simpler than in other immortal cities.


    ording to the information Lan Chang''an had gathered:


    As long as one¡¯s background could be verified and they passed the city¡¯s review¡ªensuring they weren¡¯t a fugitive wanted by major sects or a spy from an enemy nation¡ªone could form their Core in Huanglong Immortal City simply by paying the required spirit stones.


    Even if someone hadmitted shady deeds or had a poor reputation, it wouldn¡¯t matter as long as they had enough spirit stones to pay.

 Chapter 269: Third-Turn Golden Dan

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    ¡°Senior Lu, are you nning to form your Core?¡±


    The female cultivator in the green dress looked surprised as she gazed at the bearded middle-aged man before her. Her half-kneeling posture became even more deferential, her chest nearly touching her knees.


    ¡°Very soon, as quickly as possible,¡± Lan Chang''an replied.


    ¡°Senior, please follow me.¡±


    The female cultivator retrieved a jade pendant and injected it with her spiritual power.


    She stood, bending her waist in a respectful bow once more, and led Lan Chang''an into a side hall.


    After waiting for a moment...


    An elder with a dark face, wooden clogs on his feet, and cultivation at the Fake Dan stage entered the hall.¡°Greetings, Senior Wumu Immortal.¡±


    The green-dressed female cultivator sped her hands respectfully, introduced the two briefly, and then left the side hall.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Lu, please fill out this document. Afterward, Huanglong Immortal City will conduct a verification and review of your identity,¡± Wumu Immortal said impassively as he tossed a nk jade slip to Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an scanned it with his spiritual sense. The form required him to provide personal information, including his name, age, origin, and past experiences.


    This wasn¡¯t his first time. He had formed his Core once before in the Jing Kingdom, and the process wasrgely the same back then. However, at that time, the Wufu Merchant Association handled much of the cumbersome formalities for him, saving him a lot of trouble.


    ¡°May I ask, Senior Immortal, how long will the verification process take?¡±


    As Lan Chang''an ¡°filled out¡± the information in the jade slip, he noticed that Wumu Immortal¡¯s spiritual sense was already probing him.


    However, as a True Dan cultivator and Hundred Illusions Mask, Lan Chang''an naturally wouldn¡¯t be seen through by someone at the Fake Dan stage.


    ¡°To rent a third-rank spiritual vein for Core Formation, you¡¯ll need the approval of the deputy city lord of the immortal city. It¡¯s hard to say how long the procedures will take¡ªanywhere from a few months to over a year,¡± Wumu Immortal replied, his tone strictly businesslike.


    Lan Chang''an was well aware of the implications.


    Although a year or so might not seem like a long time, most Foundation Establishment cultivators who reached the ninth level were already well into their hundredth year of life. With each passing year, their bodies would decline slightlypared to their peak condition.


    At this stage, time was a pricelessmodity.


    ¡°Senior Immortal, could this process be expedited? If this matter is sessful, there will be another... half of it...¡±


    With only the two of them in the side hall, Lan Chang''an skipped the pleasantries and handed a brocade pouch to Wumu Immortal.


    Wumu Immortal swept his spiritual sense over the pouch, which contained twenty middle-grade spirit stones. His expression softened noticeably.


    With a nod and a faint smile, he said, ¡°I have a good rtionship with Deputy City Lord Deng. I can help push things along for you. As long as there¡¯s no issue with your identity, the review should bepleted within a month.¡± ?


    ¡°In addition, forming a Core at Huanglong Mountain requires a fee of 5,000 spirit stones, ording to the rules.¡±


    ¡°However, if Fellow Daoist Lu is willing to sign a contract to serve as a Huanglong Immortal City enforcer for twenty years after sessfully forming your Core, this fee can be waived regardless of your sess or failure.¡±


    Wumu Immortal added this information as an afterthought.


    Lan Chang''an hesitated, struggling internally for a moment. ¡°I can sell some of my magical weapons and resources to cover the 5,000 spirit stones,¡± he eventually replied.


    ¡°Very well. Fellow Daoist, please return and wait for the notice. During this time, do not leave Huanglong Immortal City. You may be contacted for further inquiries,¡± Wumu Immortal said, concluding their conversation.


    ...


    Back at the inn in Huanglong Immortal City...


    After waiting for more than half a month, Lan Chang''an received a message from Wumu Immortal.


    He returned to the administrative hall, met with Wumu Immortal, and received a dark bronze token of authorization.


    Lan Chang''an handed over the second half of his bribe.


    Wumu Immortal, in high spirits, personally escorted him to the third-rank spiritual vein region on Huanglong Mountain.


    Lan Chang''an selected a rtively secluded cave mansion.


    ¡°Then I wish Fellow Daoist Lu sess on forming your Core,¡± Wumu Immortal said with cupped fists, offering his congrattions.


    ¡°I''ll borrow the auspicious words of the Immortal,¡± Lan Chang''an replied, cupping his hands in return.


    As he watched Lan Chang''an enter the cave mansion, Wumu Immortal returned home, his face thoughtful.


    ¡°This person¡¯s spiritual sense is tough, and his magical power is pure and stable. He has a 40-50% chance of forming a Fake Dan,¡± Wumu Immortal muttered to himself.


    ¡°But his age is on the higher side. If there is no superior Core Formation item, his chances of forming a True Dan are rather slim.¡±


    As the manager of the third-rank spiritual veins, Wumu Immortal prided himself on his sharp judgment.


    ...


    Inside the third-rank cave mansion.


    The first thing Lan Chang''an did after entering the cave mansion was to set up restrictions, followed by the quasi-fourth-rank illusion array.


    The primary purpose was to prevent other high-level cultivators from probing the details of his cave mansion with their spiritual sense.


    Such precautions were necessary because the spiritual energy fluctuations during his Core dissolution or Core reformation process might reveal clues about his cultivation.


    The strongest guardian of Huanglong Immortal City was a mid-stage True Dan cultivator.


    Even at half its power, Lan Chang''an¡¯s quasi-fourth-rank illusion array would have been more than sufficient. For absolute safety, however, he activated it at full capacity.


    With everything prepared, Lan Chang''an closed his eyes to rest and once again reviewed the intricacies of the Returning Dust Core Transformation Method, a technique he had long since mastered, along with the insights from Zhang Tieshan.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s insights were primarily centered on dissolving a Fake Dan.


    Dissolving a True Dan, however, was significantly more challenging.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an was merely dissolving a rtively average low-tier True Dan, one only slightly superior to Fu Xuemei¡¯s borderline True Dan.


    [¡°This is also the reason why the quality of the Core can''t be high for the first Core Formation.¡±]


    [¡°No matter how much theoretical knowledge one has or how confident one is, without practical experience, the first Core dissolution must be approached with extreme caution.¡±]


    ¡°With my current body refinement cultivation, even in the worst-case scenario, it won¡¯t result in death,¡± Lan Chang''an thought.


    He activated the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art, causing his entire body to grow taller by half. His skin and muscles hardened, forming a golden, metallic sheen.


    At a nce, he looked like a solid, gilded bronze statue, his every breath exuding a terrifying physical presence.


    The oppressive blood energy he emanated was nearly equivalent to that of a third-rank Great Demon.


    During his six-month departure from Wuqi Mountain, Lan Chang''an had secluded himself in a remote location, dedicating himself to the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art. He had finally pushed this body refinement technique to the seventhyer, equivalent to the True Dan stage in body refinement!


    Half a dayter, Lan Chang''an began circting the secret technique for dissolving his Core.


    After a few moments, his brows furrowed as he felt a trace of difort.


    At this moment, the spiritual pressure within his body began to gradually decrease, particrly in the region where his True Dan was located.


    Even with his True Dan-level body refinement, Lan Chang''an felt a slight unease, underscoring just how intense the pressure of Core dissolution was for most cultivators.


    The process of condensing a Core involves the influx of heaven and earth spiritual energy, causing spiritual pressure to rise.


    Core dissolution, on the other hand, takes the opposite approach.


    ¡°Lower the spiritual pressure, erode it from the outside in, and loosen the Core.¡±


    ¡°Then, vibrate the Core¡¯s central structure at high frequencies from the inside out, causing it to break apart bit by bit into Core fragments¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood the principles of Core dissolution thoroughly.


    In addition to this, he had prepared a specialized potion that would aid in loosening the Core.


    The recipe for this potion came from Zhang Tieshan¡¯s insights.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s strong spiritual sense and third-rank body refinement gave him a muchrger margin for error than most cultivators.


    After another half an hour...


    ¡°Hiss!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s abdomen seemed to cave in and twist slightly, beads of sweat forming on his forehead.


    His dark-green True Dan trembled uncontrobly and expanded slightly, its surface shedding tiny crystal particles the size of grains of sand.


    Inside his body, the pressure surged dramatically.


    Boom! Boom!


    Under the increasingly low spiritual pressure, the Core fragments suddenly liquefied, expanding to several times their original volume.


    At the same time, the essence contained within the True Dan rapidly dissipated.


    The process also released vast amounts of wood-attribute spiritual energy, which scattered and returned to the heavens and earth.


    Throughout this ordeal, Lan Chang''an¡¯s body, including his dantian, hidden meridians, internal organs, bones, and even his life foundation, endured immense pressure and impact.


    The damage was like an invisible wind prating his internal organs, blood, and bone marrow.


    The vibrations and expansion of his True Dan created an unstable force field.


    If he lost control, the worst-case scenario would be akin to a small-scale nuclear explosion.


    This is why the path of Core dissolution required not only a profound secret technique but also the protection of a Nascent Soul-level cultivator.


    ¡°No wonder Core dissolution leaves the foundation easily damaged and the cultivator severely weakened.¡±


    Over time, Lan Chang''an¡¯s technique became more skilled.


    The seemingly unstable True Dan stabilized into a rtively bnced state as it continued to shed crystalline particles.


    The crystalline particles quickly transformed into liquid spiritual energy.


    More of his life essence and a vast amount of wood-attribute spiritual energy dissipated from his body.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual pressure dropped from the True Dan early stage to the Fake Dan level, his cultivation steadily declining.


    Seven days and seven nightster...


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s True Dan hadpletely dissolved into pure, wless liquid Evergreen mana, which returned to his original spiritualke.


    ¡°My cultivation is back to the ninth level of the Foundation Establishment stage!¡±


    ¡°Hm? It¡¯s actually at the peak of the ninth level. My spiritual power has indeed be slightly purer.¡±


    Having sessfully dissolved his Core, Lan Chang''an¡¯s face lit up with joy.


    Before forming his Core in the Jing Kingdom, he had only just reached the ninth level of Foundation Establishment.


    This sessful Core dissolution was equivalent to saving over a decade of cultivation time.


    This demonstrated that his timing for his initial Core formation had been exceptionally well-chosen.


    ...


    After the dissolution, Lan Chang''an carefully examined his physical condition.


    ¡°My life essence is damaged, and there are faint hidden injuries deep within my body.¡±


    Thanks to his third-rank body refinement, Lan Chang''an had no obvious injuries, not even a single drop of blood.


    However, the hidden injuries within his body were unavoidable and would inevitably impact his foundation to some extent.


    Even with his strong physique, areas like his internal organs, hidden meridians, and eyes remained vulnerable.


    Even Great Demons would suffer significant harm if their eyes or internal organs were struck.


    ¡°My lifespan has also drastically dropped, reverting to the lifespan of the Foundation Establishment stage.¡±


    Lan Chang''an could feel the rapid loss of vitality and the strong sense of time slipping away.


    After a long while, he finally adapted to the ¡°weakened¡± state of his body following the Core dissolution.


    The drop in his life essence felt excruciating, as if it might even affect his mental state, potentially influencing the sess of his next Core formation.


    ¡°Fortunately, even at the Foundation Establishment stage, I still have over 500 years of lifespan.¡±


    Unhurried, Lan Chang''an chuckled faintly.


    He immediately consumed some of his lifespan to activate the Evergreen secret spell, using it to heal his body.


    Buzz!


    A faint, ancient green light radiated from within him, carrying an aura of time and cycles of life and death. It resembled the light of life itself, rippling through his body.


    ¡°So this is the sensation of the Evergreen secret spell healing me¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an closed his eyes, feeling as though he were a fetus in a mother¡¯s womb, nourished by innate qi.


    The sensation was utterly intoxicating, making him reluctant to stop.


    ¡°Oh no! I overdid it¡­¡±


    ¡°With just half a year of lifespan, my body ispletely healed!¡±


    Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, feeling both physically and mentally refreshed. The hidden injuries and minor ws within his body had been cleansed and repaired.


    His third-rank body refinement meant his injuries had been rtively minor, so they didn¡¯t require much of his lifespan to heal.


    Normally, with proper rest and medicinal herbs, he could have fully recovered within a year or two.


    However, Lan Chang''an hadpleted this process in just a few breaths, and his body''s vitality was restored.


    Lan Chang''an did not rush to condense his Core again. Instead, he consumed a few spirit medicines to replenish his qi, blood, and essence.


    Half a monthter, with his energy, spirit, and condition restored to their peak, Lan Chang''an began his first Core formation attempt following his Core dissolution.


    Most cultivators attempting Core dissolutioncked his powerful spiritual sense, robust body, or the Evergreen secret spell¡¯s lifespan sacrifice.


    Even if they seeded, post-dissolution recovery could take one to three years at best, or up to five years in more severe cases.


    If the damage to their foundation was too severe and irreparable, they might not even seed in forming a Fake Dan in their next attempt.


    ...


    For Lan Chang''an, condensing the Dan had be an almost effortless task.


    Even in a less-than-optimal state, sess was not a concern¡ªonly the quality of the final Core might be affected, and this was without relying on any external Core formation items.


    ¡°This first test of Core dissolution left me with plenty of energy to spare.¡±


    Thanks to his third-rank body refinement, Lan Chang''an had suffered hardly any injuries.


    Moreover, he hadn¡¯t even used the previous life possessoin trump card.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s insights on Core dissolution had noted:


    ¡°After dissolving a Core, the quality of the next Core improves by around 20-30%, depending on the individual.¡±


    ¡°With this margin of improvement, I¡¯m even more confident about my next Core dissolution,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    Seven dayster.


    Above Huanglong Mountain, a spiritual cloud of radiant energy stretched over a two-and-a-half-li radius before gently dissipating.


    ¡°He seeded in forming a True Dan!¡±


    ¡°Judging by this phenomenon, it¡¯s at least a low-tier True Dan, and one of higher quality at that.¡±


    Foundation Establishment cultivators, Core Formation Immortals, and even the top echelon of the immortal city all took note of the spectacle above Huanglong Mountain.


    Outside Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave mansion, a small group of cultivators, including Wumu Immortal, had gathered.


    ¡°That brat actually formed a True Dan. Could he have used some superior Core Formation item?¡±


    Wumu Immortal¡¯s expression shifted between astonishment and envy, his heart tinged with bitterness.


    During the era when the me Departing Pce held dominance, the emergence of a True Dan cultivator in Huanglong Immortal City would have shaken the entire region.


    But after the Golden Sun Sect migrated north and took over, the strength of the Liang Kingdom had risen significantly, leading to a notable increase in the number of True Dan cultivators.


    Inside the third-rank cave mansion.


    Having sessfully ascended to the True Dan stage again, Lan Chang''an closed his eyes and carefully examined the quality of his newly-formed Core.


    ¡°Dissolving the Core into liquid has indeed purified my mana. After recondensing the Core, the quality has improved as expected.¡±


    ¡°However, the improvement isn¡¯t as high as the 20-30% mentioned in Zhang Tieshan¡¯s insights¡ªit¡¯s closer to 10-20%.¡±


    This time, the quality of Lan Chang''an¡¯s True Dan was just shy of reaching mid-tier. If it was a 30% improvement, it should have risen to mid-tier.


    After some contemtion, Lan Chang''an understood the reason.


    A 30% improvement in Core quality is generally applied to cultivators dissolving a Fake Dan.


    Fake Dan cultivators were akin to ¡°poor students,¡± meaning there was much more room for improvement.


    Lan Chang''an, however, had been working from the foundation of a True Dan, and a strong one at that. As an ¡°outstanding student,¡± each incremental improvement in quality came with greater difficulty.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. The cost of dissolving my Core is so low that I can afford to do this as many times as necessary.¡±


    If a few months of lifespan could be used to improve the Core quality by 10-20%, those Core Formation cultivators everywhere woulde rushing for such an opportunity.


    Never underestimate a 10-20% improvement.


    Many Fake Dan cultivators fail to form a True Dan simply because they fall just short of that crucial threshold.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    After stabilizing his cultivation, Lan Chang''an emerged from seclusion and deactivated the quasi-fourth-rank illusion array.


    Several True Dan cultivators from Huanglong Immortal City came to visit him.


    To avoid drawing unnecessary attention to his disguised identity, Lan Chang''an met with a few of them and politely declined their invitations.


    The only exception was Wumu Immortal, a Fake Dan cultivator.


    ¡°Congrattions, Immortal Lu. To form a True Dan in one step¡ªtruly enviable!¡±


    Wumu Immortal¡¯s face was full of smiles as he humbly sat at Lan Chang''an¡¯s side,vishing him with ttery.


    In less than two months, the positions of the two hadpletely reversed.


    Wumu Immortal hadn¡¯te empty-handed, either, bringing an exceptionally valuable gift that far exceeded the bribe Lan Chang''an had previously given him.


    ¡°Regrettably, I have no ns to stay in the Liang Kingdom. I¡¯m preparing to move to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance. While the alliance is also gued by demonic invasions, its overall strength is far greater than the Liang Kingdom¡¯s borders¡­¡±


    Half a dayter.


    After rejecting numerous invitations, Lan Chang''an flew out of Huanglong Immortal City.


    Heading westward, he eventually vanished into the deste wilderness at the Liang Kingdom¡¯s borders.


    ...


    One monthter.


    Deep in the heart of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, at Liaoyuan Immortal City...


    Inside a third-rank cave mansion¡ª


    Poof!


    A white-robed man with True Dan cultivation dissolved into an illusion, leaving behind a scorched third-rank talisman.


    ¡°This Immortal Lan is just now ¡®leaving seclusion¡¯ to purchase some supplies,¡± a voice echoed softly.


    Within the cave mansion, the real Lan Chang''an emerged, departing the third-rank cave mansion area.


    To others, it appeared that Lan Chang''an had spent the past few months in secluded cultivation at Liaoyuan Immortal City.


    This cave mansion was also equipped with restrictions.


    Even if a True Dan Immortal swept it with their spiritual sense, they would only sense the presence of a True Dan cultivator, matching Lan Chang''an¡¯s profile.


    Forcibly breaking through the restrictions to investigate further would be considered an act of hostility, tantamount to dering war.


    Several dayster.


    After attending an auction, Lan Chang''an left Liaoyuan Immortal City, the Liang Kingdom¡¯s number one immortal city.


    Once again, he vanished without a trace.


    ...


    Far to the north of the ck Fog Mountain Range, beyond its northernmost reaches, a newly established immortal city named Wuguang City stood proudly.


    The entire city was enveloped in a radiant, five-colored glow that gave it a resplendent appearance, attracting countless female cultivators who were drawn to its beauty.


    This city was jointly founded by forces that had migrated from Feng Kingdom to the north.


    Previously, the northern Liang region had been dominated by the Liuyun Sect, the second most powerful faction after the me Departing Pce, with Core Formation cultivators.


    But now, a new cultivation sect had emerged in the northern region: the Feng Xing Sect, whose strength rivaled the Liuyun Sect.


    Wuguang City, in reality, was a puppet city supported by the Feng Xing Sect, strategically created to siphon off a portion of the Liuyun Sect¡¯s influence and resources.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ...


    Ten monthster.


    Inside a luxurious hall in the City Lord¡¯s Mansion of Wuguang City...


    The Vice City Lord, Huang Chao, was entertaining a beautiful woman dressed in elegant pce attire.


    The woman, whose figure was both graceful and alluring, appeared to be around thirty years old. Herplexion was fair, her demeanor elegant, and her cultivation level had reached thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    ¡°Fairy Liu, if I¡¯m not mistaken, when the ¡®Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯ was destroyed years ago, its Core cultivators fled northward. Rumor has it they relocated to the desert regions of Feng Kingdom.¡±


    ¡°Why, after all these decades, have you reappeared here in the northern Liang region?¡±


    Huang Chao, a Fake Dan cultivator who appeared no older than thirty, spoke with evident interest as he interrogated the woman in front of him.


    As the Vice City Lord of Wuguang City, Huang Chao had a notable background¡ªhis grandfather was an inner elder of the Feng Xing Sect.


    At the moment, Huang Chao was thoroughly vetting Fairy Liu, who hade to request the use of a third-rank spiritual vein to attempt Core Formation.


    The woman in question, Liu Qingyan, had once been an inner disciple of Xuan Yin Pavilion, a sect in the Liang Kingdom.


    During the northern migration wars between cultivators, Xuan Yin Pavilion had been destroyed by the forces of the Golden Sun Sect, leaving its members scattered. Liu Qingyan herself had vanished after the fall of her sect.


    ¡°City Lord,¡± Liu Qingyan said softly, her melodious voice tinged with sorrow and an almost imperceptible charm.


    ¡°When Xuan Yin Pavilion was defeated, the Pavilion Master perished in the conflict. Elder Niyue did indeed lead some of our sect¡¯s members to Feng Kingdom. However, many female disciples were left scattered, and those with the misfortune of falling into enemy hands suffered tragic fates, reduced to the ythings of others...¡±


    ¡°As for me, a few of my sisters and I managed to escape southward toward Jing Kingdom.¡±


    As she recounted her experiences, Liu Qingyan¡¯s eyes shimmered with tears, her demeanor evoking pity from anyone who looked at her.


    Huang Chao¡¯s gaze softened, as if he felt genuine sympathy. His eyes lingered on Liu Qingyan¡¯s delicate, snow-white face, which was as beautiful as it was heart-wrenching.


    ¡°City Lord, is there something wrong with my face?¡±


    Noticing Huang Chao¡¯s fixed gaze, Liu Qingyan lowered her head slightly, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush.


    ¡°No, no, of course not. I was merely sympathizing with your plight,¡± Huang Chao replied with a smile, withdrawing his gaze.


    ¡°In that case, could the City Lord perhaps¡­¡±


    ¡°The rules of the city, unfortunately, cannot be broken. We must verify and investigate your identity.¡±


    Liu Qingyan sighed faintly. ¡°Ah, I understand the unwritten rules of Wuguang Immortal City...¡±


    She moved closer, her fragrance subtly enveloping Huang Chao.


    When her soft, cool fingers brushed against his hand, Huang Chao felt a slight ripple in his heart.


    Soon, his gaze fell to the embroidered pouch she had handed him.


    ¡°I¡¯ve scraped together what resources I could for my Core formation. All I have left is 1,000 spirit stones. If I fail to form a Core, or only manage to condense a Fake Dan, I may have no choice but to seek refuge under your protection, City Lord.¡±


    With her soft tone and tearful expression, Liu Qingyan exuded an irresistible charm.


    ¡°Such sincerity,¡± Huang Chao chuckled lightly. ¡°If I were to refuse now, wouldn¡¯t I be letting down the favor of such a lovelydy?¡±


    With a smile, Huang Chao pushed the embroidered pouch back into her hands.


    ...


    In just half a month, Liu Qingyan had sessfully passed Wuguang City¡¯s identity verification process.


    The investigation team had unearthed information about a former outer disciple of Xuan Yin Pavilion, a female cultivator skilled in music arts, who was now selling her talents in a high-end incense house in the city.


    This woman was asked to meet with Liu Qingyan to confirm her identity. After a brief and superficial conversation, Liu Qingyan gifted her a music cultivation technique and several hundred spirit stones, dismissing her with ease.


    Inside Wuguang City''s third-rank spiritual vein cave mansion.


    After setting up restrictions and arrays within her new residence, Liu Qingyan let out a breath of relief.


    ¡°Luckily, I didn¡¯t run into any close ¡®sisters.¡¯ If they¡¯d tested me on music theory or performance skills, I would¡¯ve been exposed,¡± she murmured to herself.


    As she spoke, the delicate features of the pce-dressed beauty began to blur, shifting back into the face of Lan Chang''an.


    It turned out that this entire identity as a female disciple of Xuan Yin Pavilion had been something Lan Chang''an fabricated during his return from Jing Kingdom to Liang Kingdom.


    Decades earlier, the real Liu Qingyan had escaped from the Liang Kingdom, intending to find safety in neutral Jing Kingdom.


    At the time, she was at the early Foundation Establishment stage and had been injured. Unfortunately, she was ambushed by Lu Chi, Lan Chang''an¡¯sst false identity.


    Lu Chi, having taken note of her beauty and proficiency in music, had imprisoned her, intending to use her as a dual-cultivation partner.


    After decades of captivity and mental conditioning, Liu Qingyan had gradually sumbed, falling into depravity.


    She abandoned her original name, assumed a new identity, and joined Lu Chi in their nefarious deeds, ambushing and killing numerous cultivators.


    Eventually, after gaining his trust and reaching thete Foundation Establishment stage, Liu Qingyan betrayed and attempted to assassinate Lu Chi.


    To her shock, Lu Chi had anticipated her betrayal.


    The two fought fiercely in a mountain cave, leaving both gravely injured.


    It was at this moment that Lan Chang''an, passing by, sensed their conflict and casually killed them both.


    The story of Liu Qingyan¡¯s degradation remained hidden. She had changed her identity so thoroughly that no one ever connected her with Xuan Yin Pavilion, perhaps because she didn¡¯t want to tarnish the sect¡¯s reputation.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Over Wuguang City, a spiritual cloud of radiant energy spread over a radius of three li, exuding an awe-inspiring and majestic aura.


    ¡°A True Dan phenomenon! And not just any True Dan¡ªthis one might be of middle-tier quality!¡±


    Within the immortal city, numerous cultivators stopped in their tracks to look skyward, their faces filled with reverence and longing.


    ¡°Who would¡¯ve thought... this woman actually seeded in forming a True Dan,¡± many murmured.


    In the City Lord¡¯s Mansion, Vice City Lord Huang Chao¡¯s face twitched as he watched the phenomenon unfold. A mixture of shock and panic flickered in his eyes.


    Just days ago, Liu Qingyan had shared an intimate moment with him,menting her serious injuries and the damage to her foundation, and with the inferior Crystal Condensation Pill she could obtain, the best case scenario was a Fake Dan, with a higher chance of failure¡­ If she failed, she had said, she would be left with no choice but to rely on him for support.


    A damaged foundation? A Fake Dan at best?!


    The spiritual energy cloud now dispersing in the sky told apletely different story. A True Dan was all but guaranteed, and it might even exceed low-tier.


    Huang Chao¡¯s face flushed with indignation, and he nearly cursed aloud.


    However, as he stared at the gradually dissipating Core phenomenon, his feelings of betrayal, jealousy, and anger began to fade.


    A music path True Dan female cultivator was bound to be highly sought after in high-level cultivator circles.


    As a mere Fake Dan cultivator, Huang Chao knew better than to offend such a person. Doing so could spell trouble for both himself and his family.


    ...


    Inside the third-rank cave mansion.


    ¡°The effects of a second Core dissolution are even better than expected!¡±


    A year after his previous Core formation, Lan Chang''an opened his eyes and smiled faintly.


    This second attempt at Core dissolution and reformation, aplished without the use of external aids, had resulted in a middle-tier True Dan.


    Even the Core Formation seeds cultivated by Nascent Soul sects would struggle to achieve this level of sess.


    Of course, this wasrgely due to Lan Chang''an¡¯s personal advantages¡ªhis wealth of experience, refined techniques, and exceptional spiritual sense.


    ¡°However, the improvement this time was barely 15%. Furthermore, the pressure from the Core dissolution process has increased noticeably!¡±


    Lan Chang''an realized that the mana quality increases gained through the Core dissolution were rapidly approaching their limit.


    ¡°Three times. No more. Otherwise, even with a fake identity, it would be easy for the outside world to make the connections.¡±


    He finalized his n internally.


    Three Transformations of True Dan!


    The Third-Turn True Dan would be his final attempt. For this, he would use all of the best Core Formation items at his disposal.


    With over 50% confidence in forming a Golden Dan, Lan Chang''an was optimistic about his chances.


    Even in the worst-case scenario, like the Earth Burrowing Rat, he was certain he could at least achieve a Half-Step Golden Dan.


    While Lan Chang''an¡¯s unique circumstances allowed him to endure multiple rounds of Core dissolution with minimal cost, he knew the diminishing returns weren¡¯t worth the increasing risks.


    High risk, low gain, wasn''t in line with his philosophy.


    ¡°This will be myst attempt. At most, the next Core dissolution will yield a 10% improvement, or perhaps even less.¡±


    With diminishing rewards and escting risks, continuing beyond a third attempt would be reckless and counterproductive.


    ¡°Three-Turn Core Refinement will push my potential to the limit while keeping the risks under control. If I still fail to form a Golden Dan after that, then I¡¯ll simply ept my fate.¡±


    After all, even with heavenly spiritual roots and the most diverse and superior Core Formation items, not even geniuses could guarantee the creation of an Immortal Golden Dan.

 Chapter 270: Wood Element Magical Treasure

    Several hundred li away from Wuguang City.


    A third-rank Huang Dragon Beast, its long body resembling a cross between a dragon and a crocodile, soared across theyered skies of the Nine Fiery Heavens.


    Seated atop the Huang Dragon Beast''s broad back was a pair of cultivators¡ªone a woman, and the other a man with a green-scaled face.


    The male cultivator, with horn-like protrusions on his head and arms covered in dark cyan scales, cut an imposing figure. His lower half was not human legs, but a smooth, serpentine tail resembling that of a flood dragon.


    At that moment, the green-faced man¡¯s gaze abruptly shifted toward the direction of Wuguang City. His snake-like hand, covered in coarse scales, casually stroked the rugged, thick armor of the Huang Dragon Beast beneath him. The motion was nonchnt, as though he were petting a loyal dog.


    Despite its earth-grade bloodline and third-rank cultivation base, the massive Huang Dragon Beast¡¯s body trembled faintly, its instincts forcing it to maintain steady flight.


    ¡°Master, it seems someone has reached Core Formation in Wuguang City.¡±


    Kneeling beside the green-faced man was a breathtakingly beautiful woman, her long violet hair cascading down her back, her delicate features as pure as untouched snow, and her presence as serene as a secluded orchid blooming in a quiet valley.


    If Lan Chang''an were present, he would immediately recognize her¡ªit was none other than Fu Xuemei.Following the green-faced man¡¯s gaze, Fu Xuemei faintly sensed the lingering traces of Core Formation energy radiating from Wuguang City before the fluctuations quickly dissipated. The distance, coupled with the brevity of the event, made it difficult for her to determine the specifics.


    ¡°A mid-tier Core Formation¡­¡±


    The green-faced man¡¯s voice emerged from deep within his chest, hollow and raspy, carrying a sinister undertone that sent shivers down one¡¯s spine.


    After casting a single nce toward Wuguang City, he retracted his gaze.


    A trace of envy shed in Fu Xuemei¡¯s eyes, though she had no idea who the person breaking through to Core Formation was.


    Since entering the Core Formation stage herself, she hade to deeply understand the profound impact of one¡¯s Core quality on cultivation.


    A poor-quality Core might only slow down one¡¯s cultivation speed, which, though inconvenient, was not the end of the world. Simrly, a weaker performance inbat could be overlooked, as cultivation level and magical treasures often held greater sway over strength.


    These drawbacks could sometimes be mitigated with external resources.


    However, the real issuey in the Core''s quality serving as a reflection of a cultivator''s foundational potential.


    For those with the lowest-grade Cores, advancing even slightly within the Core Formation stage became agonizingly difficult.


    With her earth-attribute spiritual roots, Fu Xuemei had been stuck at the early Core Formation stage for decades, and her cultivation speed reduced to mediocrity¡ªeven among Core Formation cultivators, she was notably slow.


    More critically, poor Core quality greatly hindered advancement between minor stages of Core Formation.


    Breaking through to the mid orte stages was significantly harder for someone with a low-tier Corepared to those with mid- or upper-tier Cores.


    As for advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm? That was nothing more than a theoretical possibility for her¡ªa faint hope with less than half a percent chance of sess.


    In contrast, those with Immortal Golden Dan had at least a 20¨C30% chance of reaching the Nascent Soul Realm, even without external assistance.


    ¡°If only I had met Master a few decades earlier, perhaps my fate might have¡­¡±


    Fu Xuemei¡¯s gaze dimmed as she retracted her thoughts, her heart heavy with regret.


    Having entered the Core Formation Realm decades ago, her Core had long since solidified, making it nearly impossible to tread the path of Core Reformation.


    Moreover, shattering her Core would mean dropping back to the Foundation Establishment stage, and even her lifespan would be affected.


    Years ago...


    Through her connections with Huang Lang Immortal of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, Fu Xuemei had found a method to awaken the petrified Huang Dragon Beast. That methody with one of the Six Demonic Sects¡ªthe Beast King Valley, renowned as the progenitor of beast-taming techniques.


    Bearing a token given by Huang Lang Immortal, Fu Xuemei traveled across multiple countries and ventured deep into the territories controlled by the demonic sects. After numerous twists and turns, she finally contacted a cultivator from Beast King Valley. However, before negotiations could even begin, she was captured.


    Her captor was none other than ate-stage Core Formation cultivator of Beast King Valley, against whom she had no ability to resist.


    For a stunning female cultivator like her, falling into the hands of demonic cultivators could only mean a grim fate.


    Fortunately, the green-faced master had intervened, eliminating thete-stage Core Formation cultivator of Beast King Valley with a flick of his fingers.


    Not long after, even a Nascent Soul True Monarch from Beast King Valley pursued them, riding a fourth-rank Demon King as massive as a mountain.


    Yet when the green-faced master turned back to nce at the iing Nascent Soul True Monarch, thetter froze in ce before abandoning the chase altogether.


    Following this, Fu Xuemei implored the green-faced master to help revive the petrified Huang Dragon Beast. He agreed and did so with ease.


    However, both Fu Xuemei and the Huang Dragon Beast became bound to him¡ªshe as his servant and the Huang Dragon Beast as his mount, both to serve him for a hundred years.


    ...


    Wuguang Immortal City.


    Within a secluded cultivation chamber, Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, meditating to stabilize his newly formed Core and consolidate his cultivation.


    He carefully examined the quality of the Core.


    A mid-tier Core¡ªslightly inferior to the mid-tier Core of his past life but still within the eptable range.


    It barely qualified as a mid-tier Core, thanks to the benefits brought by his two instances of Core Reformation, which elevated the Core¡¯s grade by an entire tier.


    The first Core Reformation had brought greater improvements to his Core¡¯s quality than the process of advancing from the peak of Foundation Establishment to its pinnacle.


    This was because, during his first Core Reformation, not only had his cultivation reached the pinnacle of the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, but his mana had also been far purer than that of other cultivators at the same level.


    Typically, both the eighth and ninth levels of Foundation Establishment were consideredte-stage levels, with only slight distinctions between them. The difference between the ninth level of Foundation Establishment and its peak was even less pronounced¡ªbarely more than a rounding error.


    Reaching the pinnacle of the ninth level simply meant having slightly more robust mana and a more stable foundation for advancing to Core Formation.


    For ordinary cultivators, however, even the smallest advantage could not be overlooked.


    Practicing the Evergreen Technique, Lan Chang''an had built his foundation with careful, steady steps. For him, such minor advantages were merely icing on the cake.


    ¡°The second Core Reformation was noticeably more challenging and even left me with minor injuries¡­¡±


    The injuries he sustained at the time had been healed immediately by sacrificing a portion of his lifespan.


    The second Core Reformation had consumed nearly half a year of Lan Chang''an¡¯s lifespan.


    Though his process of Core Reformation appeared simple, for ordinary cultivators, it was as difficult as ascending the heavens.


    Furthermore, those with low quality Cores, such as Fake Dans, were often considered poor investments due to their limited potential.


    Only those from prestigious cultivation ns or sects could afford to have Nascent Soul cultivators safeguard their Core Reformation attempts.


    Additionally, the advantages of possessing a True Dan-level physique were something only a select few cultivators could attain.


    Even Lan Chang''an, with his third-rank physique, had felt the strain and sustained minor injuries. For ordinary cultivators, the consequences would be unimaginable. As such, the path of Core Reformation was suitable only for cultivators with Fake Dans.


    For ordinary cultivators, dissolving a mid-tier Golden Core was almost impossible, even with the protection of a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    ¡°Now that I¡¯ve formed a mid-tier Core, the difficulty of the third Core Reformation will likely increase significantly.¡±


    Fortunately...


    Having gone through two rtively easier Core Reformations, Lan Chang''an had umted valuable experience and techniques, giving him confidence in the final attempt.


    His third-rank physique still had room to endure more strain.


    Both previous Core Reformations had left him unscathed by serious injuries.


    In fact, even the spirit possession of his second life¡ªa hidden trump card¡ªhad yet to be utilized.


    As for advancing beyond a mid-tier Core to an upper-tier one, Lan Chang''an dared not attempt it. The risks were too great, and the rewards too minimal.


    A mid-tier Core was the safest and most stable choice, with manageable risks, for his final Core Reformation.


    This was the culmination of Lan Chang''an¡¯s experience from his first Core Reformation and the foundationid by the second. Had he attempted to reform a mid-tier or higher Core during his first attempt without any experience, it would have been nothing short of suicidal.


    ¡°For the Third-Turn Golden Dan, Liang Kingdom¡¯s Wuguang City is not suitable¡ªit¡¯s far too conspicuous.¡±


    Lan Chang''an decided to perform his final Core Reformation in Wangyue Immortal City, a neutral territory better suited to his needs.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Having initially consolidated his breakthrough, Lan Chang''an ended his secluded cultivation.


    ¡°Congrattions to Fairy Liu on forming a True Dan!¡±


    ¡°Fairy Liu, I am an elder of the Liuyun Sect¡¯s outer sect. May I have the honor of exchanging contact information with you?¡±


    ¡°Fairy Liu, I have been stuck at the bottleneck of early Core Formation for many years. Could I listen to the sacred music of the Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s instruments to help alleviate my heart¡¯s inner demons?¡±


    When Lan Chang''an¡ªnow under the alias Liu Qingyan¡ªemerged from seclusion, numerous visitors arrived to pay their respects. Outside the cave residence, a crowd of cultivators gathered, most of them Core Formation cultivators. Those with merely Fake Dans couldn¡¯t even get close to the conversation.


    This time, themotion was far greater than when he reformed his Core previously.


    While the higher quality of his Core was a factor, the main reason was Liu Qingyan¡¯s status as a female cultivator of outstanding beauty, grace, and talent.


    In the world of cultivation, female cultivators were inherently fewer in number than male cultivators, especially at higher levels of cultivation.


    In truth, the disparity began at the very source: the mortal world where potential cultivators, or "immortal seedlings," were discovered. Mortals often favored sons over daughters, leading to more female infants being abandoned and a skewed gender ratio.


    At the lower levels of cultivation, some cultivation families faced tough choices when resources were limited. If two children possessed the same spiritual root aptitude, would the family prioritize training the male cultivator or the female one? In most cases, the male cultivator was chosen.


    All of these factors contributed to the male-to-female imbnce in the cultivation world.


    ...


    Inside the cave residence, Lan Chang''an personally received several Core Formation cultivators. Most were True Dan cultivators, though two Fake Dan cultivators with some level of status also managed to gain an audience.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Xu, this gift is far too generous. I fear I cannot ept it.¡±


    Every visiting Core Formation cultivator brought gifts, each one of considerable value.


    Some individuals, eager to leave an excellent first impression on ¡°Liu Qingyan,¡± presented gifts worth several thousand spirit stones.


    Though Lan Chang''an declined such gifts at first, he eventually epted them with a polite smile when the givers insisted.


    ¡°The gap between people truly is enormous, even within the same cultivation realm.¡±


    The gifts Lan Chang''an received this time were worth several times more than what he had received during his previous Core Reformation.


    Having experienced the incredible advantages of being a female cultivator in this world, he couldn¡¯t help but entertain a bold idea:


    Should he consider reincarnating as a female cultivator in his next life?


    With the activation of the Nine Seal Stele, Lan Chang''an¡¯s fourth life cycle offered him some degree of customization over his future reincarnation. This included options for his lineage, aptitude, and even destiny.


    Whether he could choose his gender was still uncertain.


    However, Lan Chang''an¡¯s priority for his next reincarnation stele was to inherit the lifetime of the Nascent Soul elder, converting their experiences and insights into his own past life.


    This was the most reliable method, as it came with the added benefit of gaining a full understanding of the tribtions one faced when advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Such insights were not the type recorded in jade slips, like those left behind by Zhang Tieshan. Instead, they would be actual experiences transformed into Lan Chang''an¡¯s personal memories¡ªan invaluable resource equivalent to having personally transcended a Nascent Soul tribtion.


    ...


    Before Leaving Wuguang Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an arranged a meeting with Vice City Lord Huang Chao. After all, he had taken advantage of the man earlier and owed him some exnation.


    ¡°Fairy Liu, with your talent and beauty, why did you feel the need to deceive my feelings that day?¡±


    Huang Chao let out a bitterugh, suppressing the indignation in his heart.


    After Liu Qingyan sessfully formed her Core, he had even sent her a congrattory gift of significant value. Yet he had gained nothing in return, leaving him both emotionally and financially at a loss.


    ¡°I was wandering alone, with no one to rely on. I had no choice but to conceal the truth about myself. I beg for your forgiveness, Fellow Daoist Huang,¡± Liu Qingyan said with practiced courtesy, her tone calm yet polite.


    Her respectful demeanor softened the frustration in Huang Chao¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Well, strictly speaking, you didn¡¯t vite any promises by forming your Core.¡±


    With the misunderstanding resolved, Huang Chao forced a smile and took the initiative to express goodwill.


    However, he knew deep down that Liu Qingyan, as a newly ascended True Dan cultivator, was now far beyond his reach.


    In the cultivation world, a female cultivator with a Fake Dan might still have the chance to marry a male cultivator with a True Dan. However, a male cultivator with a Fake Dan would find it nearly impossible to marry a female cultivator with a True Dan.


    ¡°This visit is not just to apologize. I also have a favor to ask,¡± Liu Qingyan said, shifting the conversation.


    ¡°Oh? What does Fairy Liu need?¡± Huang Chao asked after a moment¡¯s thought.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to obtain information on the route to Fengyuan Kingdom and any relevant intelligence about the area.¡±


    After briefly considering the request, Huang Chao agreed without hesitation.


    Though some of the information was quite valuable and could have been sold for a considerable sum of spirit stones, Huang Chao decided to let it go.


    ¡°One thousand spirit stones¡ªwill that be enough for the information?¡± Liu Qingyan offered.


    ¡°No need for that. A simple piece of information is not worth epting spirit stones from a fairy,¡± Huang Chao replied, waving her off with a sigh.


    From Liu Qingyan¡¯s inquiry, Huang Chao could guess her intention.


    Having formed her Core, she likely wanted to reconnect with the Xuan Yin Pavilion, which had relocated to Fengyuan Kingdom.


    In truth, Lan Chang''an¡¯s inquiries were merely a pretense, serving as a cover for Liu Qingyan¡¯s eventual disappearance.


    Fengyuan Kingdom was far more distant than Jing Kingdom, separated by harsh and treacherous desert terrain.


    The infamous ded Sand Abyss was one of the most perilous regions along the way, Foundation Establishment cultivators who fell into it had no way of returning.


    This didn¡¯t even ount for the other dangers lurking in the desert: sandworms, rogue beasts, and bandit cultivators.


    Without proper knowledge of the terrain, a Fake Dan cultivator traveling alone to Fengyuan Kingdom would be courting disaster.


    The strongest sand beasts in the area had even been known to kill True Dan cultivators.


    Natural disasters and man-made perils alike mademunication between the two countries sparse. Unlike the frequent trade exchanges between the Liang and Jing Kingdoms, the Fengyuan Kingdom remained isted.


    Because of this, even if Liu Qingyan¡¯s identity were to suddenly vanish, it wouldn¡¯t raise much suspicion.


    ...


    The next day,


    Liu Qingyan departed northward, flying toward Fengyuan Kingdom. Her trail vanished amidst the endless desert.


    Half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an returned triumphantly to Zijing Immortal City in the western region of Liang Kingdom, carrying his spoils.


    "Interesting. Two rounds of Core Reformation, and not only did I avoid any losses, but I also earned a significant profit."


    He found the situation amusing.


    Especially with Liu Qingyan¡¯s identity, the benefits he had reaped wereparable to what a Fake Dan cultivator could gain through decades of banditry.


    While the advantages of being a female cultivator were immense, Lan Chang''an was well aware of the apanying risks.


    Cultivators like Liu Qingyan, who were talented, beautiful, and charming, often attracted unwanted attention. They could easily provoke disputes or be targeted by powerful individuals, bing embroiled in conflicts.


    Such an approach might work asionally, but it didn¡¯t align with Lan Chang''an¡¯s preference for stable, long-term operations.


    Zijing Immortal City was located rtively close to Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an nned to purchase some resources here and wait for a time before seeking out Zhang Tieshan for magical treasure crafting.


    There were less than twelve months left until the date he had arranged with Zhang Tieshan.


    Lan Chang''an intended to refine a suitable wood-element magical treasure before heading to Wangyue Immortal City for his final third attempt at Core Reformation.


    For Core Formation cultivators, having a magical treasure that matched their abilities was critical to unlocking their full potential.


    Moreover, the area surrounding Wangyue Immortal City was known to be treacherous.


    Once armed with an effective weapon, Lan Chang''an would no longer be considered weak, even as an early-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    In addition, to avoid raising suspicion, he nned to extend the time between his final Core Reformation and the previous two attempts.


    His first and second Core Reformations had been spaced one year apart. This time, he would wait longer.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an stayed in Zijing Immortal City for six months.


    During this time, he refined a sturdy tortoise puppet with powerful defensive capabilities.


    This third-rank puppet was apleted masterpiece, costing him a hefty sum¡ªtwo to three thousand spirit stones just for materials.


    Through testing, Lan Chang''an confirmed that even his spells could not breach the puppet¡¯s robust defenses in a short amount of time.


    Against threats like the Earth Burrowing Rat, the tortoise puppet could hold its ground for quite some time.


    "Two third-rank puppets¡ªone tortoise for defense and containment, and one rat for ambushes and assassination."


    As a third-rank puppet master, Lan Chang''an could maximize the potential of both puppets.


    If the puppets were given to other cultivators to control, the strength they could exert would be significantly weaker than that of cultivators of the same rank


    ...


    With his third-rank puppetspleted, Lan Chang''an set out for Jin Yun Valley.


    Before leaving Zijing Immortal City, he overheard some rumors:


    On the southwestern frontlines of Yan Kingdom, Beast King Valley¡ªone of the Six Demonic Sects¡ªhad shed in small-scale skirmishes with the "Righteous Dao Alliance" of several countries.


    In the initial battles, the sect cultivators from the area surrounding Feng Kingdom had suffered a minor defeat.


    Back at Jin Yun Valley.


    Upon Lan Chang''an¡¯s return, he found Zhang Tieshan in residence, who weed him into his cave abode.


    During their conversation, Lan Chang''an received some concerning news.


    Zhao Siyao was soon to be among those conscripted to the frontlines.


    In the past few years, various sects across the region had already sent many of their cultivators to the frontlines.


    Cultivators like Zhao Siyao, who were Fake Dan cultivators without significant growth potential, often formed the backbone of such deployments.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Zhao volunteered to go to the frontlines. This decision will allow her disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er, to focus on tempering herself as a True Dan cultivator for a few more years,¡± Zhang Tieshan exined.


    Among Zhao Siyao and her disciple, one of the two had to go.


    Sending Zhao Siyao was clearly the better option.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er, like Lan Chang''an, had only recently entered the early stage of Core Formation and was still refining her natal magical treasure.


    Curious, Lan Chang''an asked, ¡°So the frontlines have truly escted into battle? How strong is Beast King Valley?¡±


    For someone like Lan Chang''an, who always paid attention to the broader trends of the cultivation world, this was a question of great interest.


    ¡°They¡¯ve shed, yes. Beast King Valley is incredibly powerful. The sects allied under the ¡®Righteous Dao Alliance¡¯ must work together closely if they hope to resist.¡±


    When Zhang Tieshan mentioned Beast King Valley, his expression grew grave, and a trace of worry flickered in his eyes.


    Through their conversation, Lan Chang''an learned more about the situation.


    Beast King Valley¡¯s invasion was supported by two subordinate Nascent Soul-level sects.


    While the Righteous Dao Alliance had a numerical advantage in Foundation Establishment and Core Formation cultivators, the alliance of sects across Feng Kingdom and its neighbors had difficulties uniting. Each group was more focused on minimizing its own losses than forming a cohesive force.


    If not for the presence of a unifying leader like Chu Tianfeng, the sects of the Righteous Dao Alliance would have likely remained fragmented and ineffective.


    In addition, Beast King Valley employed a secret technique that allowed them to rapidly producerge numbers of second-rank and even quasi-third-rank demonic beasts by sacrificing the potential lifespans of their beast subjects.


    Although these beasts typically only lived for a few months to half a year andcked intelligence, their effectiveness on the battlefield was undeniable.


    In this initial encounter, Beast King Valley¡¯s wave of fearsome, death-defying beasts had overwhelmed the alliance forces, securing an obvious advantage in momentum.


    Meanwhile, the sects of the Righteous Dao Alliance hesitated, each harboring selfish intentions and trying to minimize their own losses.


    ...


    ¡°Based on Fellow Daoist Lan¡¯s earlier requests and fighting style, I¡¯ve designed a suitable magical treasure,¡± Zhang Tieshan said with a smile.


    ¡°Oh? What kind of magical treasure?¡± Lan Chang''an asked, intrigued.


    Zhang Tieshan was the first third-rank artifact refiner Lan Chang''an had befriended in this life, he man carried an air of mystery, and his skills hinted at guidance from a hidden expert.


    With a flourish of his sleeve, Zhang Tieshan revealed a model crafted from ironwood.


    The magical treasure was slender andpact, somewhere between a long spike and an arrow. Its shaft was made of wood, while its head resembled a sharp, metallic spike that gleamed with a cold, lethal light.


    ¡°A barbed arrow!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes lit up. No wonder Zhang Tieshan had said the magical treasure matched his style.


    ¡°This magical treasure is very efficient in its use of materials. It consists of three barbed arrows, forming a set. Its strengths and weaknesses are clear.¡±


    ¡°The downside is that it¡¯s not designed for direct confrontations orrge-scale attacks.¡±


    ¡°But the advantages? The arrows have an incredibly long attack range, blinding speed, and extraordinary piercing power!¡±


    ¡°Additionally, the shaft is to be crafted from Soul-Nurturing Wood. With consistent refinement and spiritual nurturing, the arrows will increase their connection to the wielder, extending the effective control distance. Furthermore, the barbed arrows also carry a soul attack, capable of killing from afar without leaving a trace!¡±


    After hearing Zhang Tieshan¡¯s exnation, Lan Chang''an was ted.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Zhang Tieshan was truly worthy of being his century-old friend.


    The design of the barbed arrow magic treasure was a perfect match for Lan Chang''an¡¯s preferences.

 Chapter 271: Guest Elder

    Sorry about the slight dy, I got caught up in something else. Anyways, here''s an extra chap to start off the year!


    ¡°Impressive. Fellow Daoist Zhang¡¯s design is truly ingenious, tailored to fit me perfectly.¡±


    After understanding the design principles behind the magical treasure, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but apud in admiration.


    ¡°Your praise is too generous, Immortal Lan.¡±


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s slightly darkened face remained calm andposed. In truth, this magical treasure was not entirely his original design. Its prototype was derived from an ancient legendary supreme spiritual treasure.


    The Barbed Arrow was a small-scale magical treasure that required fewer materials. For instance, after using the fourth-rank Soul-Nurturing Wood, half of the material still remained. The remaining portion could be used to craft auxiliary essories.


    These auxiliary essories were not magical treasures but rather fell under the category of wondrous items. They primarily relied on the innate properties of the spiritual materials themselves. Even cultivators with lower levels of cultivation could still benefit from wearing them.


    The auxiliary essory would retain the Soul-Nurturing Wood¡¯s effect of nourishing the soul, which could help elerate the illumination of the Nine Seal Stele¡¯s past life imprints.


    Whether it was the Barbed Arrow or the auxiliary essories, both were rtively material-efficient, making it possible to meet both the requirements set forth by Lan Chang''an.With the design n finalized, the next step involved gathering the necessary materials. While the Soul-Nurturing Wood served as the primary material, additional materials for crafting the magical treasure were also needed, with a minimum requirement of third-rank quality.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhang Tieshan had already collected some auxiliary materials.


    ¡°This is Meteorite Edge Stone, third-rank superior-grade. It can serve as the tip material for the Barbed Arrow, enhancing its piercing capabilities.¡±


    Zhang Tieshan produced a fist-sized chunk of grayish-blue metallic ore.


    Lan Chang¡¯an recognized the Meteorite Edge Stone; it was extremely rare in the cultivation world. The stone significantly increased the sharpness of magical treasures, enhancing their ability to pierce through protective barriers and defensive spiritual light.


    ¡°If Fellow Daoist Lan has any extra Five Element Earth, adding a small amount can act as a stabilizer, improving both the sess rate and the quality of the magical treasure,¡± Zhang Tieshan suggested.


    Lan Chang''an nodded in agreement. Five Element Earth, being a versatile foundational material, was considered a rare and precious resource in artifact crafting.


    ¡°I happen to have a small piece of Shadowstone. Can it be incorporated into the design?¡±


    Lan Chang''an took out a small chunk of dark, shadowy-gray mineral.


    Years ago, he had obtained arge, basin-sized piece of Shadowstone from an ancient ruin. Most of it had been used to craft materials for isting spiritual sense, but he had intentionally saved a portion for crafting future magical treasures.


    ¡°Third-rank superior-grade Shadowstone!¡±


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s expression slightly shifted as he nced at Lan Chang''an with a peculiar look in his eyes.


    Shadowstone was known for its ability to obscure spiritual energy fluctuations and block spiritual sense detection. Incorporating this material into the Barbed Arrow would significantly enhance the weapon''s concealment properties, making it both sinister and difficult to detect. It would even slightly boost its speed.


    ¡°¡­Feasible,¡± Zhang Tieshan said after a moment¡¯s hesitation.


    He almost wanted to speak up but held back. Crafting such a venomous magical treasure worried him¡ªwhether this was a blessing or a curse for Lan Chang''an was unclear. If this magical treasure fell into the wrong hands, especially those of a demonic cultivator, it could cause untold harm.


    Were it not for his decades-long friendship with Lan Chang''an and the man¡¯s sterling reputation for integrity, Zhang Tieshan might have refused outright.


    ...


    The estimated time toplete the crafting was two to three months. Lan Chang''an decided to wait in Jin Yun Valley during this period. At the same time, he coborated with Jin Yun Valley to craft various talismans, primarily superior-grade second-rank talismans and low-grade third-rank talismans.


    Crafting third-rank talismans was a challenge, as the materials were hard toe by, and the sess rate of talisman masters significantly decreased at this level.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had been a superior-grade third-rank Talisman Master. Even then, his sess rate for crafting superior-grade third-rank talismans was only average. However, when it came to crafting mid-grade or low-grade third-rank talismans, he still retained a slight edge.


    Unfortunately, that edge was far less pronounced than it had been when crafting second-rank talismans in the past.


    As such, while crafting third-rank talismans for Jin Yun Valley, Lan Chang''an could only earn a small profit of about 20-30% of the materials¡¯ value.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    ...


    ¡°Having reached the Core Formation Stage, the advantages carried over from my past life will gradually dwindle,¡± Lan Chang''an reflected.


    This was something he had long anticipated. By the time he reached the mid-stage of Core Formation, the residual benefits of his past-life memories would likely disappear entirely. This realization only made him more eager to convert a Nascent Soul Stage cultivator into one of his past lives.


    He had a n in his mind: afterpleting his final Core Reformation in Wangyue Immortal City, he would make a trip to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    While waiting for the magical treasure to bepleted, Lan Chang''an met with Zhao Tan¡¯er.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er appeared a little despondent. She had been staying in her sect to refine her magical treasure and train in her spells. Pulling Lan Chang''an along as a sparring partner, she trained diligently.


    For the sake of fairness, neither of them used magical treasures during the sparring matches. Lan Chang''an suppressed his True Dan to a low-tier level, rendering his mana inferior to Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er not only had extraordinary talent but had also obtained a fortuitous encounter in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, thus achieving a near upper-tier True Dan quality. Despite Lan Chang''an¡¯s superiorbat experience, he surprisingly did not gain any advantage.


    This was partly because the Evergreen Technique wasn''t particrly suited for directbat. Additionally, Zhao Tan¡¯er turned out to be far stronger than he had anticipated.


    Over the past two years, she had sparred against nearly every other Core Formation cultivator in Jin Yun Valley, even challenging the Grand Elder at one point. To increase her practicalbat experience, she had also ventured outside toplete missions, ying several Fake Dans cultivators along the way.


    ¡°Uncle Lan¡¯s mana seems inexhaustible. If this was a prolonged battle, I¡¯m afraid I wouldn¡¯t be able to hold my ground,¡± Zhao Tan¡¯er remarked one day after their sparring session. Her breathing was slightlybored, and a fine sheen of sweat appeared on her forehead.


    Her earlier advantage had beenrgely superficial; she hadn¡¯t been able to truly overpower Lan Chang''an. If the fight had continued, she would have eventually run out of mana.


    ¡°Your Uncle Lan practices a life-nurturing technique. While itcks certain strengths, endurance is definitely one of its highlights,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a lightugh, showing no intention of hiding this particr trait.


    After the sparring session, Zhao Tan¡¯er prepared to embark on another mission. This time, her target was an aged and severely injured early True Dan cultivator.


    Uponpleting this mission, she nned to visit the frontlines to assist her master, Zhao Siyao. Zhao Siyao was stationed at a rear-line immortal city as part of a support force for the battlefield¡¯s second line.


    Unfortunately, Lan Chang''an¡¯s timing was poor. Zhao Siyao was already en route to the frontlines when he arrived.


    ¡°Tan¡¯er, give this item to your master. It will give her more self-protection ability,¡± Lan Chang''an said, taking out a quasi-third-rank turtle puppet.


    This puppet had defensive capabilities approaching that of a true third-rank magical treasure.


    For some reason, Zhao Tan¡¯er insisted on paying with spirit stones, unwilling to owe Lan Chang''an half a cent.


    Lan Chang''an chuckled and epted the payment.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er seemed slightly displeased that Lan Chang''an had refused to form a Daoist partnership with her master. While she understood his reasons, she couldn¡¯tpletely suppress her dissatisfaction.


    Unbeknownst to Zhao Tan¡¯er, Lan Chang''an had hidden three talismans within the puppet¡ªtwo low-grade third-rank talismans and one mid-grade.


    With their past camaraderie, he was certain Zhao Siyao would discover the hidden talismans.


    Years ago, due to his limited cultivation, Lan Chang''an had been unable to craft third-rank talismans and had instead given Zhao Siyao a treasure talisman. That treasure talisman had once saved her life, enabling her toter reach the Fake Dan Stage.


    For Zhao Siyao, the Fake Dan Stage was already her natural limit. Even if like Li Erqing, she broke her upper limits and barely entered the Core Formation Stage, her Core¡¯s quality would be poor¡ªlikely ranking at the bottom tier, like Fu Xuemei.


    Advancing further to the Nascent Soul Realm was entirely out of the question unless she were a Child of Destiny blessed with unparalleled fortune.


    Fake Dan cultivators already had lifespans of about 300 years, while many mortal dynasties didn¡¯tst that long.


    Lan Chang''an had already passed on the Core Dissolution Technique to Zhao Siyao. But he knew that she could live a fulfilling andplete life at the Fake Dan Stage, which would already put her above 99% of cultivators in the immortal world.


    Cultivation was ultimately reliant on the individual. While external assistance could help, it could not defy the natural limits of one¡¯s talent and destiny.


    If one were a Nascent Soul cultivator, helping one¡¯s descendants break their upper limit and form a True Dan was a trivial act. However, for someone ofparable or weaker cultivation, assisting others in breaking their limits was nothing short of reckless¡ªit was tantamount to defying the heavens.


    ...


    Two to three monthster.


    Inside the Elder¡¯s residence in Jin Yun Valley.


    ¡°Immortal Lan, I have not failed your trust. The artifact¡¯s refinement went rtively smoothly.¡±


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s expression was slightly fatigued as he presented two ornate boxes. Opening one of the boxes revealed three Barbed Arrows.


    The arrows closely resembled the earlier prototypes, with a design somewhere between a long spike and an arrow shaft. The main body was crafted from fourth-rank Soul-Nurturing Wood, while the arrowheads were forged from third-rank superior-grade Meteorite Edge Stone.


    Compared to the prototype, the finalized Barbed Arrows had a deeper luster and emitted an aura that stirred an inexplicable unease in one¡¯s soul.


    ¡°These three Barbed Arrows are of mid-grade magical treasure quality individually. However, when used as a set, their power rivals that of a superior-grade magical treasure. Moreover, their operational range and stealth far surpass that of typical magical treasures!¡±


    As Zhang Tieshan exined, Lan Chang''an picked up one of the Barbed Arrows and infused it with his spiritual sense and mana for a basic activation test.


    Swoosh!


    The arrow transformed into a streak of shadowy light, so swift and elusive that it became nearly imperceptible within just a few breaths.


    At one point, Zhang Tieshan felt a chilling sensation in his soul as a sharp, grating sound pierced the air, sending shivers down his spine and causing goosebumps to rise all over his body.


    ¡°Impressive stealth,¡± Lan Chang''anmented, nodding in approval.


    The next moment, the Barbed Arrow reappeared between Lan Chang''an¡¯s fingers.


    After a brief test, he observed that while the Barbed Arrows had a limited attack range, their mana consumption was significantly lowerpared to other mid-grade magical treasures. However, controlling them required a higher spiritual sense capacity and precision than usual.


    Typically, mid-grade magical treasures were suited for mid-tote-stage Core Formation cultivators. However, since the Barbed Arrows werepact magical treasures, Lan Chang''an¡ªwhose spiritual sense far surpassed those of the same stage¡ªcould control one effortlessly.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t even refined the magical treasure, yet you¡¯re able to control it so easily?¡± Zhang Tieshan asked in surprise.


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly. ¡°The primary material, Soul-Nurturing Wood, had been nurtured by my wood-based mana for many years. This created a faint resonance between my spiritual essence and the magical treasure¡¯s spirituality. As such, I can control it to a certain extent even without performing a full refinement.¡±


    Generally speaking, magical treasures needed to be refined by high-level cultivators to be wielded with ease. The morepatible one¡¯s mana was with the magical treasure, the greater its power and efficiency. Conversely, using a magical treasure with ipatible mana would not only be cumbersome but also yield less effective results.


    For the same amount of mana input, a magical treasure with highpatibility could produce 30-50% more power.


    Opening the second ornate box, Zhang Tieshan revealed three dark-green bracelets inside.


    ¡°These are the Soul-Nurturing Bracelets,¡± Zhang Tieshan exined.


    This wondrous essory, designed for everyday wear, could slowly nourish the wearer¡¯s soul, gradually strengthening their spiritual sense and offering resistance against external evil influences. If one''s magical power was high, the bracelets could even serve as auxiliary treasures for subduing ghostly entities.


    ¡°Immortal Lan, may I offer a suggestion? Could you allow me to keep one of the Soul-Nurturing Bracelets aspensation for this refinement project? This would also cover the cost of the Meteorite Edge Stone, sparing you from any additional expense,¡± Zhang Tieshan proposed.


    After a moment of thought, Lan Chang''an nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Fine,¡± he said.


    Two bracelets were more than enough for him, he could wear one on each arm, hidden under his sleeves. The refinement process had gone smoothly, and Zhang Tieshan had contributed rare and valuable materials. A small gesture of goodwill was warranted.


    In the future, Lan Chang''an might need Zhang Tieshan¡¯s expertise again¡ªfor tasks such as repairing magical treasures or crafting high-level puppetponents.


    More importantly, he didn¡¯t fully trust other artifact refiners. Zhang Tieshan, however, was a person of integrity and discretion, someone who, like Lan Chang''an, harbored his own secrets. Their century-long friendship had proven their mutual reliability.


    Both of their previous coborations had been sealed with heart demon oaths.


    ...


    After parting ways with Lan Chang''an, Zhang Tieshan ced one of the Soul-Nurturing Bracelets on his forearm, hiding it beneath his sleeve.


    ¡°With this Soul-Nurturing Bracelet, my cultivation in the Hundred Refined Soul-Temperance Technique should progress noticeably faster,¡± Zhang Tieshan muttered as he closed his eyes to sense the treasure¡¯s effects. A look of delight appeared on his face.


    ¡°Hmm, it even provides a slight boost to the recovery of my spirituality¡­¡±


    A faint, childlike voice echoed in his mind, the voice of the artifact spirit.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pity, though. If that ¡®Little Six¡¯ were willing to sacrifice a hundred years of his lifespan to meticulously cultivate the Soul-Nurturing Wood into an even higher rank, the effects could have been much better,¡± the artifact spiritmented.


    ¡°Lifespan is the foundation of the Evergreen Technique. That¡¯s simply not realistic,¡± Zhang Tieshan replied with a wry smile and a shake of his head.


    Ever since the artifact spirit uncovered the nature of the Evergreen Technique, both it and Zhang Tieshan had grown wary of Lan Chang''an, suspecting that he might be the reincarnation of Yan Doni, or perhaps a chess piece ced by thetter.


    Even the artifact spirit, with its ancient wisdom, dared not provoke Lan Chang''an. On the contrary, it often referred to him as ¡°Little Six¡± with a tone that suggested resignation¡ªor even admiration.


    Zhang Tieshan couldn¡¯t help but wonder whether his artifact spirit was considering ¡°defecting¡± to Lan Chang''an.


    One hundred and fifty years ago, Zhang Tieshan, then a cksmith by trade, had identally discovered a fragment of this spiritual treasure. Recognizing its extraordinary nature, he forged and tempered it repeatedly before keeping it as a personal possession.


    At the time, the artifact spirit within the treasure fragment had been incredibly weak, on the verge of dissipatingpletely. It had chosen Zhang Tieshan as its master after recognizing his indomitable will and hispatibility with its spiritual attributes, thus apanying him on his path to immortality.


    ¡°Senior, are you certain that he has already dissolved and reforged his Core? That¡¯s a True Dan! Without a Nascent Soul True Monarch acting as a guardian, how could he dare attempt such a feat?¡±


    Even now, Zhang Tieshan found it hard to believe.


    He himself had only dissolved and reforged his Fake Dan once.


    After refining his Fake Dan, he had poured all his effort into forming a True Dan, gaining a 30% improvement in quality. With the aid of all his umted Core Formation items and the mysterious enhancements of his spiritual treasure, he had ultimately formed an upper-tier Core.


    For someone like Zhang Tieshan, who came from humble origins with only low-grade spiritual roots, achieving an upper-tier Core was already more than satisfactory.


    With the help of his spiritual treasure fragment, he could continue seeking opportunities and had a reasonable chance of reaching the Nascent Soul Realm in the future.


    Despite his confidence, Zhang Tieshan dared not attempt refining a True Dan again. The risk of damaging his Dao foundation and losing his path forward was simply too great.


    ¡°Stop being so ignorant,¡± the artifact spirit chided him in an old, lecturing tone.


    ¡°In the ancientnds of the Central State, even a finalized True Dan has chances to change its fate and defy the heavens. Moreover, with this man¡¯s Evergreen Technique and the reinforcement of his third-rank body cultivation, dissolving an unsettled low-tier Core is entirely feasible in theory.¡±


    ...


    In the guest quarters of Jin Yun Valley, Lan Chang''an spent half a month refining all three Barbed Arrows.


    In the world of cultivation, magical treasures are divided into two categories: ordinary magical treasures and lifebound magical treasures.


    Ordinary magical treasures only require standard refinement to be wielded.


    Lifebound magical treasures, however, need to be infused with the cultivator''s essence blood and nurtured over time with true fire. These magical treasures grow far more powerful and feel as natural to wield as one¡¯s own limbs.


    Lifebound magical treasures have another key advantage: even if stolen, they are nearly impossible for others to tame or control in a short amount of time. Additionally, lifebound magical treasures can be continuously refined with new materials, offering the potential for limitless growth in power¡ªat least in theory. The catch, however, is that such progress requires living an extraordinarily long life.


    For most high-level cultivators, their entire lifespan may only allow them to elevate their lifebound magical treasure by one or two minor grades.


    ¡°The Barbed Arrows will serve as my hidden trump card,¡± Lan Chang''an mused. ¡°I¡¯ll nourish and refine them with my true fire and mana over the years. If I persist for several decades, the umted power of a single strike will undoubtedly be earth-shattering!¡±


    His approach to the Barbed Arrows was simr to his philosophy with treasure talismans. Since he rarely engaged in directbat, he nned to focus on consistently nurturing the arrows with mana until the perfect moment arose to deliver a lethal strike.


    As for more conventional magical treasures, Lan Chang''an had plenty of options. Over the past decades, numerous cultivators had fallen at his hands¡ªmost of them Fake Dan cultivators. Among his spoils were two outstanding magical treasures obtained from Master Lihuo¡¯s remains.


    Lan Chang''an raised his hand, and three magical treasures floated into the air before him.


    From strongest to weakest, they were:


    Purple Gourd, a top-grade fire-elemental magical treasure suited for Nascent Soul cultivators.


    Currently, Lan Chang''an, being in the early Core Formation Stage, could not fully control it.


    Its fire-elemental nature wasn¡¯t a perfect match for his wood-based cultivation, but the two elements wereplementary. When he reached the Nascent Soul Realm, this magical treasure would unleash considerable power.


    The second one was the Braided Rope magical treasure, a superior-grade magical treasure designed for trapping enemies. It could also unleash powerful lightning strikes, making it a versatile tool for immobilizing foes.


    Once his cultivation advanced further, it would serve as a useful method for subduing opponents.


    Lastly, the ck Ruler magical treasure, a well-crafted low-grade magical treasure, is perfectly suited for Core Formation cultivators.


    It was originally the personal weapon of Immortal tan, a Fake Dan cultivator.


    Bnced in offense and defense, the ruler was particrly effective for head-onbat and dueling.


    The ck Ruler magical treasure was the only one he had already refined, making it his primary weapon for now, along with the newlypleted Barbed Arrows.


    ¡°With the addition of a third-rankbat puppet, my current capabilities are more than sufficient,¡± Lan Chang''an assessed.


    He didn¡¯tck sacrificial pawns or defensive measures to ensure his survival. The Barbed Arrows filled the gap in his offensive capabilities, providing him with a precise and deadly tool.


    ...


    After refining the Barbed Arrows, Lan Chang''an could confidently say that he had no weaknesses among Core Formation cultivators. With this newfound assurance, he began preparing for his trip to Wangyue Immortal City.


    Even Zhang Tieshan had chosen Wangyue Immortal City as the site for dissolving and reforging his Fake Dan into a True Dan, so it was evident that it was safer there. To avoid suspicion and connections to his two previous Core Condensation rituals, Lan Chang''an decided to wait three years before performing his third Core Reformation.


    Now, one year had already passed since hisst reformation.


    In the interim, Lan Chang''an struck a deal with Jin Yun Valley, officially bing one of their Guest Elders.


    This arrangement wasrgely thanks to Zhang Tieshan¡¯s efforts. Jin Yun Valley was also very sincere, and the constraints on Lan Chang''an were minimal. He was not required to go to the frontlines but could stay in the rear, enjoying most of the benefits of being a Core Formation Elder. His responsibilities included managing logistics and crafting talismans.


    At most, he might help Jin Yun Valley guard its assets and deter petty criminals from causing trouble in the rear areas.


    If Lan Chang''an wished to leave, Jin Yun Valley would not stop him.


    However, Lan Chang''an was required to give advance notice before departing. Zhang Tieshan specifically emphasized this and had it written into the spirit contract, which Lan Chang''an found both amusing and mildly insulting.


    ¡°It feels like Fellow Daoist Zhang expects me to run away at any moment,¡± Lan Chang''an muttered with a wry smile.


    However, given the chaotic state of the cultivation world, stable and prosperous bases with third-rank spiritual veins were hard toe by. Lan Chang''an had no intention of abandoning Jin Yun Valley anytime soon. The Liang Kingdom, where the sect was located, was firmly entrenched in the backlines of the ongoing war, far from the active battlefields.


    ¡°Rest assured, Fellow Daoist Zhang. As long as the mes of war don¡¯t reach Liang Kingdom, I will stand firm in Jin Yun Valley and ensure the safety of its disciples,¡± Lan Chang''an promised, expressing his loyalty appropriately.


    ...


    Nearly two years passed in the blink of an eye.


    During this time, Lan Chang''an enjoyed a leisurely life as an elder of Jin Yun Valley. His status was exalted, his treatment luxurious, and he had sole im over a third-rank spiritual vein cave mansion on one of the sect¡¯s peaks.


    The sect even offered him a selection of young outer disciples¡ªmany of them talented and attractive female cultivators¡ªto serve as attendants or helpers to manage his residence.


    Jin Yun Valley¡¯s third-rank spiritual vein was a medium-torge one, cultivated and maintained for thousands of years. It could easily sustain multiple Core Formation cultivators without strain.


    Byparison, the small-scale third-rank spiritual veins cultivated by some cultivation families could barely support one or two Core Formation cultivators.


    On this day, Lan Chang''an calcted the timing, only two months remained before the nned date for his third Core Reformation.


    Currently, both the Grand Elder and Zhang Tieshan were stationed on the frontlines. The sect master, Xuanxiao Immortal, stayed behind to oversee the sect.


    Lan Chang''an informed the sect master of his ns to leave temporarily, using the pretense of visiting friends and purchasing resources.


    As a Guest Elder, Lan Chang''an had significant freedom within Jin Yun Valley. Xuanxiao Immortal didn¡¯t object to his departure and instead offered a kind reminder:


    ¡°Immortal Lan, be careful while traveling.¡±


    ¡°The demonic sect Unseen Gate has been infiltrating nearby nations. Just recently, a third-rank Alchemist from Feng Kingdom, who was also an early Core Formation cultivator, was ambushed and killed while traveling alone. It is suspected to be the work of Unseen Gate¡¯s assassins.¡±

 Chapter 273: Golden Dan Dao Fruit

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    In the third-rank spiritual vein district of Wangyue Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s chosen cave dwelling was roughly twenty li away from the location where Zhu Yuting was forming her Core.


    The cave-dwelling came equipped with a third-rank formation, offering a degree of defense against spiritual sense detection.


    Within the cave, Lan Chang''an had installed the quasi-fourth-rank illusion formation that Fairy Shi had modified and repaired.


    Originally a true fourth-rank formation acquired from Master Lihuo, after being repaired by Fairy Shi it now rivaled fourth-rank arrays in its ability to defend against spiritual sense probes, even those at the early Nascent Soul Realm.


    Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, calming his breath and replenishing his energy.


    Half a dayter.


    His vitality reached its peak. His eyes shone brilliantly as he began activating the "Returning Dust Core Transformation Method".Within him, his mid-tier True Dan trembled with a low hum, emitting the overwhelming spiritual pressure of a high-rank cultivator.


    Fortunately, the formation concealed this pressure, ensuring that the aura released during the Core Reformation process would not leak out.


    With the experience of two prior Core Reformations, Lan Chang''an¡¯s technique had be far more refined.


    As the secret Core Dissolution Technique circted, the immense spiritual pressure within his body gradually began to subside.


    The True Dan trembled faintly from within, vibrating incessantly and swelling slightly. It formed an oppressive force field, causing the core energy to leak out.


    The force of the bacsh was like a horrifying wave, surging upwards in waves, washing over the five viscera and six bowels.


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    Lan Chang''an let out a muffled groan as a sharp pain appeared between his brows. The early phase of the Core Reformation was proving to be unexpectedly challenging.


    Transforming a mid-tier True Dan was an entirely different level of difficulty.


    Crack! Crack!


    The "Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art" activated, causing his bones to emit crisp, crackling sounds. His muscles swelled, and his physique became taller and more robust. A fineyer of golden, intricate patterns appeared across his skin.


    At first nce, he resembled a heavy, gilded bronze statue.


    The pressure from the Core Reformation eased considerably.


    Lan Chang''an then consumed the specially-prepared elixir that corroded and loosened the True Dan, aiding in its dissolution.


    The spiritual pressure within his body continued to decline.


    The vibrations of his True Dan became more rapid, radiating an increasingly unstable aura. The bacsh intensified, doubling in forcepared to the initial stages.


    The dark cyan surface of the True Dan began shedding tiny crystalline particles, each the size of sand grains.


    Boom!


    The shed particles dissolved into liquid mana under the reduced spiritual pressure, releasing an enormous surge of wood-element spiritual energy and life essence stored within his body.


    The high-frequency vibrations of the True Dan caused it to resemble an over-inted balloon, growing increasingly unstable as it expanded.


    A faint sense of danger filled Lan Chang''an¡¯s senses. Even with his powerful physical body, micro-level internal injuries had begun appearing deep within his body.


    "Merge!"


    His eyes gleamed with divine light, and with a movement of his mind, the soul imprint of the white-bearded elder from the second life of the Nine Seal Stele separated and fused with his present body.


    In an instant, his spiritual soul grew to an unprecedented level, faintly surpassing the limits of the Core Formation stage and brushing against the threshold of the Nascent Soul realm.


    After all, he had yet topletely dissolve his True Dan. At this moment, thebined power of his two lifetimes¡¯ worth of Core Formation-stage soul strength had merged into one.


    At this peak state, Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual will reached an unparalleled level!


    Every detail of the Core Reformation process fell under his absolute control.


    He could perceive and manipte even the most minute fluctuations in his mana, blood energy, and even the subtle vibrations of his hair with precision.


    The turbulent and expanding True Dan, seemingly subdued by his overwhelming spiritual power, finally stabilized and began rotating in a rtively bnced state.


    "No major issues. At least I won¡¯t die from this," Lan Chang''an muttered with relief.


    The umted experience from his two previous Core Reformations was proving invaluable.


    Otherwise, even with his third-rank body refinement and the aid of his second life''s soul shadow, he would have found the process unfamiliar and risky.


    As long as the True Dan didn¡¯t explode instantly, his survival was assured.


    He immediately sacrificed some of his lifespan, activating the Evergreen secret spell to repair the deep internal injuries within his body.


    The damage to his internal organs and the blood seepage began healing at a visible speed, as though a miracle had urred.


    This regenerative technique was indeed astonishing.


    However, its reliance on lifespan consumption to fuel its effects was rtively bnced within the cultivation world and not considered overly heaven-defying.


    After all, lifespan was the lifeline of every cultivator.


    Many powerful secret techniques and divine abilities in the cultivation world relied on the consumption of lifespan as their foundation.


    ...


    Seven dayster.


    The spiritual energy fluctuations emanating from Lan Chang''an¡¯s body had shifted, returning from the early Core Formation stage to the peakte stage Foundation Establishment.


    ¡°Three Turn Core Reformation... sess!¡±


    Soaked in sweat, Lan Chang''an let out a long breath of relief, a faint smile of satisfaction gracing his face.


    He had ovee the most difficult hurdle.


    This third Core Reformation was not yet his absolute limit, but he wasn¡¯t interested in pushing himself to that extreme.


    Besides, with each subsequent Core Reformation, the increase in power diminished.


    The mana of the Foundation Establishment Stage, no matter how refined or concentrated, had its limits.


    ¡°The refined liquid mana boosted my power by another ten percentpared to before!¡±


    Lan Chang''an circted his mana, evaporating the sweat from his soaked clothes.


    He then consumed a portion of his lifespan to fully repair the lingering effects of the Core Reformation bacsh, leaving his body wless and unscathed.


    This third Core Reformation consumed an entire year of his lifespan, significantly more than the previous two attempts.


    Afterward, Lan Chang''an took medicinal pills to restore his vitality and replenish his essence, carefully adjusting his physical state.


    Ten dayster.


    His condition was restored to its peak, and he prepared to attempt his final Core Formation.


    Just then, he felt a sudden change in the surrounding energy and opened his eyes to gaze in a certain direction.


    Above a cave-dwelling twenty li away...


    A massive cloud of spiritual energy began forming, swirling and condensing as it absorbed the surrounding heaven and earth spiritual energy, spreading across an area roughly two and a half li in diameter.


    ¡°Another True Dan cultivator is about to emerge in Wangyue Immortal City,¡± Lan Chang''an murmured.


    In the city, numerous cultivators watched the spectacle from afar, their expressions ranging from admiration to envy.


    Half a dayter.


    The phenomenon above Zhu Yuting¡¯s cave dwelling gradually dissipated, and the spiritual energy that had gathered like tidal waves returned to the surroundings.


    ¡°She¡¯s formed her True Dan!¡±


    Outside the cave, Granny Yan, who had been guarding the area, let out a deep sigh of relief. Her aged and wrinkled face revealed a gratified smile.


    ¡°Pity, if her fortune had been slightly better, she might have formed a mid-tier True Dan,¡± Granny Yan muttered, a trace of regret flickering across her mind.


    She had already forgotten that when they first arrived in Wangyue Immortal City, the only goal she and Zhu Yuting had dared to hope for was the formation of any kind of True Dan.


    With her Core sessfully formed, their return to Heng Kingdom would allow them to resolve all sorts of troublesome matters with ease.


    ¡°Granny, I¡¯ve sessfully formed my True Dan. Please don¡¯t worry,¡± Zhu Yuting¡¯s clear and melodious voice rang out from within her cave-dwelling, carrying a note of joy.


    ¡°Yuting, don¡¯t rush! Stabilize your realm first,¡± Granny Yan replied, her tone warm and encouraging.


    ¡°Forming a True Dan is already a great blessing,¡± she murmured softly to herself, her expression kind and gentle.


    The slight regret she felt stemmed from her lingering hope that Zhu Yuting might one day reach the Nascent Soul Realm, though she knew this was an extravagant wish.


    Hm?


    Suddenly, Granny Yan¡¯s gaze shifted sharply as she sensed another disturbance in the spiritual energy of the heavens and earth.


    ¡°Is someone else forming a Core?¡±


    The thought crossed her mind, and she couldn¡¯t help but make a guess.


    Just a few days ago, Zhu Yuting and Lan Chang''an had both collected their Core Formation tokens from the city¡¯s officials.


    ¡°That boy waited until Yuting had finished forming her Core before starting his own attempt. At least he¡¯s thoughtful. Perhaps he can share in Yuting¡¯s good fortune,¡± Granny Yan thought approvingly.


    Forming cores simultaneously, while possible in areas with abundant spiritual energy, could lead to minor disturbances for both parties due to thepetition for heaven and earth spiritual energy and theparison between the two processes.


    ...


    Above Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave dwelling, a new Core Formation phenomenon began to emerge.


    Unlike Zhu Yuting¡¯s, his phenomenon was calm and powerful, steadily rising in strength with no signs of faltering.


    In just three days, the spiritual energy cloud above his cave grew to two to three li in diameter, swirling with vitality.


    ¡°That fast?¡±


    Granny Yan stepped out of Zhu Yuting¡¯s cave, staring toward the distant phenomenon twenty li away. Her aged eyes widened in astonishment.


    ¡°Such a Core Formation phenomenon could it be a mid-tier True Dan?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s process was astonishingly stable and quick.


    In three days, his progress had surpassed Zhu Yuting¡¯s ten-day effort.


    The speed of Core Formation varied greatly among cultivators.


    Some moved quickly, like a sharp sword cutting through all obstacles. Others advanced slowly but with a steady momentum, gaining strength over time.


    Granny Yan knew better than to jump to conclusions based on speed alone.


    ¡°As long as it stabilizes, there¡¯s no doubt he¡¯ll form a mid-tier True Dan,¡± she thought.


    ¡°After all, he¡¯s a talented disciple from a Nascent Soul-level sect. It¡¯s only natural that his foundation is deeper than Yuting¡¯s.¡±


    This realization calmed her heart, and she epted the gap between the two cultivators.


    Meanwhile, within her cave, Zhu Yuting had also noticed the increasingly powerful phenomenon above Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave.


    ¡°That Core Formation phenomenon, it¡¯s already surpassed mine in just three days¡±


    The joy and pride she had felt after sessfully forming her own Core dissipated instantly.


    A higher-quality core signified a greater chance of advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm in the future.


    An unspoken bitterness, envy, and sense of inadequacy began to take root in Zhu Yuting¡¯s heart.


    She had never been fond of ¡°Nie Yuan¡±. Now, knowing that his Core Formation had surpassed her own, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a hint of difort.


    As time passed, the Core Formation phenomenon above Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave continued to intensify.


    Two dayster.


    The spiritual energy cloud in the sky had expanded to three and a half li then close to four li in diameter.


    ¡°Is he trying to form an upper-tier True Dan?¡±


    Within her cave, Zhu Yuting¡¯s heart was gripped with tension. Her clear eyes glimmered with a mix of astonishment and doubt.


    An upper-tier True Dan, it was an achievement she hadn¡¯t even dared to dream of before reaching the Core Formation stage.


    ¡°Even in a Nascent Soul-level sect, only core disciples have the opportunity to form an upper-tier True Dan,¡± Granny Yan muttered, unable to hide the shock on her face.


    Nie Yuan¡¯s aplishments hadpletely exceeded her expectations.


    High in the sky above Wangyue Immortal City, the massive cloud of spiritual energy exceeded four li in diameter, swirling with incredible force.


    ¡°Such a phenomenon has stabilized. He¡¯s forming an upper-tier True Dan.¡±


    The scene captivated countless cultivators across Wangyue Immortal City.


    While Core Formation was not umon in the city, the formation of an upper-tier True Dan was a rare and extraordinary event.


    ...


    In a remote cave dwelling within the Third-rank Spiritual Vein District


    Lan Chang''an had already consumed a Crystal Condensation Pill, followed by the superior Core Formation item Tianjing Water, and had refined and absorbed the earth essence from the Five Element Earth.


    In addition, he had utilized two ordinary Core Formation items, though their effects were negligiblepared to the first two.


    The portion of Five Element Earth he used was harvested from the soil near the Xuanmu Vine he cultivated.


    ¡°The Earth Burrowing Rat used Five Element Earth as its Core Formation item, its effect were much better than mine...¡±


    Lan Chang''an was aware that, in terms of external resources for Core Formation, he was slightly inferior to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    He also acknowledged that his innate talent, based on spiritual root quality, was no match for the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was a superior-grade mutated bloodline, equivalent to a human with a high-grade spiritual root.


    However, Lan Chang''an¡¯s foundation in the Evergreen Technique,bined with three sessful Core Reformations, had granted him a base powerparable to an earth spiritual root¡ªif not even stronger.


    Coupled with the techniques and experience inherited from his previous life, Lan Chang''an¡¯s overall conditions for Core Formation were superior to the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s back then.


    Hum!


    A perfectly rounded cyan-colored core began to take shape inside Lan Chang''an¡¯s body, gathering an immense amount of heaven and earth spiritual energy.


    Even in this emergent stage, the energy radiating from the embryonic core already exceeded the mid-tier True Dan he had formed in his previous life.


    ¡°Upper-tier True Dan phenomenon, I have already surpassed my previous life...¡±


    Excitement surged in Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart, but he wasn¡¯t satisfied yet.


    The spiritual pressure around him grew increasingly intense as he absorbed more and more spiritual energy from the heavens and earth, converting it into pure wood-element spiritual energy.


    The torrent of energy continued to cleanse and temper his body and mind.


    Without an unshakable will and a solid mana foundation, it would have been impossible to control the chaotic and violent heaven and earth spiritual energy during this transformation.


    Whoosh!


    The spiritual energy cloud surrounding his cave dwelling expanded, rotating with increasing speed and faintly trembling as it relentlessly grewrger.


    At a certain point, the phenomenon reached a radius of five li, nearly ten li in diameter!


    The sheer scale of the phenomenon left the nearby cultivators breathless and on edge, as if the sky itself were about to copse.


    ¡°This this phenomenon could it be...¡±n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ¡°An Immortal Golden Dan?¡±


    The minds of those watching, including Granny Yan and Zhu Yuting, were struck by waves of shock.


    Zhu Yuting stared nkly for a moment, her pink lips trembling slightly as she fell into a daze, momentarily forgetting her efforts to stabilize her cultivation.


    ...


    In the Fourth-Rank Spiritual Vein District of Wangyue Immortal City.


    An elegant and ancient pavilion stood amidst a lotus pond adorned with tricolor petals. Spiritual fish swam freely, and the fragrance of lotus flowers filled the air.


    On the pavilion¡¯s terrace, a refined schr in green robes and headwear was ying chess with a red-faced, barefooted old monster with a prominent nose.


    Two Foundation Establishment maidservants, dressed in white skirts, knelt on either side of the chessboard, serving tea and water.


    The game was nearing its end. The green-robed schr, calm andposed, steadily pressed his advantage, cornering the ck pieces of the barefooted old monster.


    ¡°Humph! That little brat forming their core disrupted my concentration. Otherwise, how could you turn the tide against me!¡±


    The red-faced old monster snorted in frustration, steam puffing out of his nostrils and causing the two maidservants to tremble in fear, their faces pale.


    ¡°Hehe, chess mirrors the heart. To think that an unconfirmed Golden Dan could shake your focus¡ªhowughable for a Nascent Soul old monster with centuries of cultivation,¡± the green-robed schr teased mercilessly as he saw victory within his grasp.


    ¡°It¡¯s just an Immortal Golden Dan! I was only curious about the identity of the one forming it, yet that brat¡¯s formation blocked my spiritual sense. How infuriating!¡± the barefooted old monster grumbled, clearly annoyed.


    ¡°¡®Just an Immortal Golden Dan,¡¯ you say? If I recall correctly, Old Xu, didn¡¯t you form only a Half-Step Golden Dan back then?¡± the green-robed schr remarked with a faint smile.


    ¡°What of it?¡±


    The barefooted old monster retorted proudly.


    ¡°Plenty of Golden Dan cultivators never make it to the Nascent Soul Realm. The final Heart Demon Tribtion during the Nascent Soul breakthrough disregards one¡¯s aptitude, mana, or even the quality of their core...¡±


    Forming a Golden Dan was no guarantee of advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm. It only offered a greater hope than ordinary Core Formation cultivators.


    Sess still depended on one¡¯s perseverance, fortune, and state of mind.


    Whoosh!


    A transmission talisman flew into the pavilion andnded in the hand of the green-robed schr.


    ¡°Nie Yuan, an elite cultivator fleeing from the me Departing Pce... interesting!¡±


    The schr¡¯s eyes flickered with amusement as he read the message, a faint smile appearing on his lips.


    ¡°As long as they¡¯re not from the Six Demonic Sects, it¡¯s fine. Another addition to the Righteous Dao Alliance¡¯s foundation is wee.¡±


    As the manager of Wangyue Immortal City, the schr hoped to prevent the expansion of the demonic factions, which threatened to engulf the surrounding cultivation nations.


    The Six Demonic Sects were tyrannical and unreasonable. If they conquered the Righteous Dao Alliance, Wangyue Immortal City¡¯s neutral status would not be spared.


    ¡°me Departing Pce? Speaking of which, that old Master Lihuo still owes me a favor¡± the barefooted old monster mused, his expression distant as he reminisced.


    ...


    Another day passed.


    The spiritual energy cloud above Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave dwelling stabilized at a radius of five li, lingering for an extended period.


    Until a certain moment,


    The center of the spiritual energy vortex twisted to the extreme, and a translucent five-colored divine light descended. It carried an ethereal resonance, as if imbued with the essence of the Great Dao itself.


    ¡°An Immortal Golden Dan, the rhythm of the Great Dao.¡±


    An unknown cultivator murmured in awe, their mind resonating with the celestial phenomenon.


    The five-colored divine light radiated brilliant golden hues, resembling the dawn breaking over the horizon. It seemed to bypass the boundaries of material space, descending directly into Lan Chang''an¡¯s cave dwelling.


    Momentster, the massive spiritual energy cloud in the sky copsed like a receding tide.


    Inside the cave.


    Lan Chang''an held his breath, focusing his spiritual sense inward.


    A perfectly round cyan-colored Golden Dan, adorned with golden crystalline patterns, appeared within his dantian.


    Every golden vein on the surface of the core resembled natural carvings of the Great Dao itself, exuding a profound and mystical aura.


    ¡°So this is the Golden Dan Dao Fruit?¡±


    Lan Chang''an inspected the core for a moment, sensing that something was slightly off.


    The Evergreen Golden Dan in his dantian wasn¡¯t a perfect sphere¡ªit was subtly oval-shaped, radiating an intoxicating fragrance that was both dreamlike and surreal.


    As he stared at it, Lan Chang''an found himself unconsciously salivating, ovee with a bizarre urge to take a bite out of it.

 Chapter 274: Within Reach

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    A momentter.


    Inside the third-rank cave-dwelling, within the illusion array.


    "Golden Dan Dao Rhythm, with a reward of a hundred years of lifespan? This small drizzle can hardlypensate for the losses I¡¯ve endured and the price I¡¯ve paid..."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression wasplicated, his face carrying a bitter smile. There was none of the joy other cultivators experienced when forming a Golden Dan and attaining enlightenment.


    "One wrong step, and I regret forming this Golden Dan!"


    He let out a long sigh.


    If any cultivators under the heavens heard this, they would surely be shocked beyond belief.


    Attaining the Immortal Golden Dan grants a minor enhancement to a specific characteristic of one¡¯s cultivation technique¡ªsimr to an innate Dao physique''s additional benefits.In reality, an innate Dao physique is linked to bloodline inheritance. Far back in the lineage, there must have been a powerful ancestor.


    For Lan Chang''an, his Evergreen Technique forming an Immortal Golden Dan and granting a hundred years of extended lifespan was consistent with its traits.


    However, when his spiritual sense touched the Dao markings on the Evergreen Golden Dan, he inexplicably received a piece of information.


    The Evergreen Technique¡¯s Golden Dan could extend one¡¯s lifespan by devouring the Dao Fruits cultivated by others using the same technique.


    This piece of information could only be known after forming a Golden Dan.


    At first nce, it didn¡¯t sound like bad news. But Lan Chang''an immediately realized the truth: if he could devour others¡¯ Dao Fruits, then other cultivators of the Evergreen Technique could devour his.


    This was, in essence, a double-edged sword.


    Dao Fruits refer to the results cultivated from the Evergreen Technique, such as the Golden Dan or the future Nascent Soul.


    This reciprocal devouring effect only worked among practitioners of the Evergreen Technique. By consuming someone else¡¯s Dao Fruit, one could absorb a certain portion of the target¡¯s lifespan.


    When a lower-level cultivator devoured the Dao Fruit of a higher-level cultivator, the effect was stronger.


    Conversely, if a higher-level cultivator devoured a lower-level cultivator¡¯s Dao Fruit, the effect would be weaker.


    The life essence of cultivators in different realms differed significantly, which exined this phenomenon.


    "If I hadn¡¯t achieved the Golden Dan, the lifespan-extending effect of the Evergreen Technique¡¯s Dao Fruit devouring would be at least halved. Moreover, regr Core Formation wouldn¡¯t yield Dao Rhythm, nor would it reveal such a characteristic..."


    Although Lan Chang''an regretted forming his Golden Dan to some extent, if he hadn¡¯t done so, he would have remained oblivious and potentially fallen victim to someone¡¯s schemes.


    It was easy to imagine that those who formed Golden Dans using the Evergreen Technique would guard this secret with their lives and hide the fact that they cultivated it.


    Fortunately, practitioners of the Evergreen Technique bore a close resemnce to those who cultivated mainstream wood-element techniques, making it easy to disguise their cultivation path.


    ...


    At this moment, as Lan Chang''an observed his newly-formed Evergreen Golden Dan, the more he looked at it, the more it resembled a fruit.


    In his past life, at the ruins of the legendary great cultivator Yan Doni¡¯s cave dwelling, he had obtained the Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique, which might have been a seed that Yan Doni deliberately scattered.


    However, such an abnormal longevity-focused cultivation technique felt like it had a muchrger purpose. Lan Chang''an doubted that someone at the Nascent Soul or Deity Transformation stage could have left such a meticulous arrangement.


    Perhaps Yan Doni was merely a big fish among smaller fish, while at the top of the food chain lurked an even more terrifying deep-sea leviathan.


    Byparison, Lan Chang''an, who had just formed his Golden Dan, could only count as a small fry.


    "If I can endure until the Nascent Soul Realm, develop the Xuantian Relic, and umte sufficient trump cards, then I¡¯ll be rtively safe..."


    Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t abandoned the idea of cultivating the Evergreen Technique.


    The sheer longevity it granted and its ability to repair damaged foundations were temptations he couldn¡¯t resist.


    Moreover, he still had the option of reincarnation into his next life.


    Golden Dans were called Immortal Golden Dans for a reason.


    When a Golden Dan cultivator dies, as long as the Golden Dan remains intact, their body could remain undecayed for thousands or even tens of thousands of years.


    The Golden Dan possessed immortal properties.


    Theoretically, Lan Chang''an could leave behind the Evergreen Dao Fruit of this life for his next reincarnation.


    In his next life, as a lower-realm cultivator, if he consumed the Core Formation or Nascent Soul-level Evergreen Dao Fruit, wouldn¡¯t he essentially achieve an instant power-up?


    From this perspective, the Evergreen Technique¡¯s Dao fruit-devouring characteristic provided more benefits than drawbacks to someone like Lan Chang''an, who possessed the Nine Seal Stele.


    However, Lan Chang''an had to genuinelyy low and avoid detection by higher-realm practitioners of the Evergreen Technique.


    On this vast Heaven Honoured Continent, and even in the entire Human Realm, how many other cultivators of the Evergreen Technique existed? Lan Chang''an had no way of knowing.


    A doubt arose in his mind:


    The reciprocal devouring of Dao Fruits among practitioners of the Evergreen Technique was a closely guarded secret, so it was normal that the outside world wouldn¡¯t know.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Surely, every cultivator who formed a Golden Dan using this technique would keep this secret to their grave.


    However cultivating the Evergreen Technique didn¡¯t seem to require high aptitude. Even his low-grade wood spirit root allowed him to practice it, albeit slowly.


    If he were the mastermind behind it all, wouldn¡¯t it make sense to spread the Evergreen Technique even further, creating arge poption of practitioners as ¡°human ginseng fruits¡± to harvest at will?


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t know that the cultivation of the Evergreen Technique actually required certain qualifications or other hidden conditions.


    If it were truly spread far and wide, the secret of Dao Fruit devouring would eventually be exposed.


    Cultivators with good aptitude wouldn¡¯t willingly practice it, as they¡¯d risk bing someone else¡¯s pawn and face the threat of being devoured.


    ...


    "So what if I be a human ginseng fruit? As long as I can achieve longevity, the Great Dao will remain within my reach."


    Lan Chang''an circted the power of his Golden Dan, solidifying his cultivation realm.


    Aside from the Nine Seal Stele, which served as a fallback, he still had the mysterious Xuantian Relic.


    In the future, if he could unlock the opportunity tied to the Xuantian Treasure, he would have enough leverage to no longer fear the legendary Great Cultivator Yan Doni.


    After all, hindsight was twenty-twenty. Once the arrow has been released from the bowstring, there¡¯s no turning back.


    When he first began rebuilding his cultivation in this life, had he known about the massive pitfall hidden in the Evergreen Technique, Lan Chang''an would have definitely reconsidered.


    "No wonder Golden Dan power feels different¡ªthis strength surpasses the True Dan I had in my previous life by several levels."


    As he consolidated his realm, Lan Chang''an keenly sensed the gap between a Golden Core and an ordinary Core.


    While the difference wasn¡¯t as significant as the gap between a Fake Dan and a True Dan, it still wasn¡¯t just a minor disparity.


    At the same cultivation stage, a Golden Dan cultivator could suppress other Core Formation cultivators with ease¡ªprovided that external factors like magical treasures, divine abilities, or other aids didn¡¯t create a major imbnce.


    However, relying solely on the strength of Golden Dan power to ovee realms was unrealistic.


    From the early stage of Core Formation to the mid-stage, the quality and quantity of power would more than double.


    Moreover, there was also a stark difference in spiritual sense.


    A stronger spiritual sense allowed a cultivator to control more powerful magical treasures and unleash more devastating secret arts.


    Normally, a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator could crush an early-stage True Dan cultivator.


    However, even a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator would find it difficult to truly threaten the life of a Golden Dan cultivator, let alone crush them.


    If a Golden Dan cultivator was equipped with better magical treasures and possessedbat-focused divine abilities, they might even have the potential to surpass realms in battle.


    The greatest advantage of forming a Golden Dany in the foundational potential it provided¡ªmaking it easier to break through bottlenecks and ascend to higher realms.


    The secondary advantage was an edge inbat.


    Lastly, there was a minor boost to the speed of daily cultivation.


    As for whether the Evergreen Technique would allow him to cultivate faster after forming a Golden Dan, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t entirely sure yet.


    While stabilizing his cultivation realm, Lan Chang''an inspected the quasi-fourth-rank illusion array that was set up in his cave dwelling.


    This array had been limited by the materials avable at the time and the rank of Fairy Shi¡¯s array skills, preventing it from being fully repaired to the standard of a fourth-rank array.


    However, in terms of spiritual sense defense, it wasparable to a fourth-rank formation.


    "The array is intact," he noted with relief.


    While Lan Chang''an was forming his Golden Dan, several Nascent Soul True Monarchs had scanned the area with their spiritual senses¡ªmultiple times, in fact.


    The array¡¯s integrity meant none of the Nascent Soul True Monarchs had forcibly broken through it.


    If they had attempted such a thing, the array would have activated defensive mechanisms, alerting its owner, essentially initiating a deration of war.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t surprised by the spiritual sense scans from True Monarchs.


    If he were a Nascent Soul cultivator in a fourth-rank immortal city, upon noticing the atmospheric phenomenon associated with someone forming a Golden Dan, he¡¯d also casually take a nce.


    Most Nascent Soul True Monarchs had previously been Golden Dan cultivators themselves.


    To them, witnessing someone forming a Golden Dan was nothing extraordinary¡ªlike a veteran watching a neer¡¯s rise from the sidelines.


    As for setting up defensive arrays, which cultivator wouldn¡¯t do so when traveling outside?


    Especially when undergoing critical breakthroughs like Foundation Establishment or Core Formation, where old enemies might attempt to sabotage them¡ªan all-toomon urrence in the cultivation world.


    "Not setting up a protective array? One must have a death wish."


    An obstructive enemy could recklessly vite thews of the immortal city and attack.


    The stronger the defensive array, the more deterrence it provided to prying eyes.


    With such a high-tier array in ce, it was clear to onlookers that the Core forming cultivator inside had significant backing and wasn¡¯t someone to provoke lightly, as it could lead to troublesome karmic consequences.


    Experienced high-realm cultivators were often cautious and wouldn¡¯t stir up trouble without a good reason¡ªespecially when faced with something whose origins they couldn¡¯t discern.


    Wangyue Immortal City, known as a well-regarded fourth-rank neutral city, had a history stretching back over ten thousand years.


    Even Nascent Soul cultivators undergoing tribtion were permitted to do so here.


    Lan Chang''an had previously gathered intelligence on the city, confirming that most cultivators who had formed upper-tier True Dans or Golden Dans within its boundaries ultimately left safely.


    At the very least, there had been no exceptions regarding safety within the city itself.


    Were it not for this reputation, Zhang Tieshan would never have chosen Wangyue Immortal City as the site to form his Core.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s goal had been to conceal the true quality of his Core after using the Core Dissolution Technique.


    With his low-grade spirit root, even using such a method, it would still seem imusible for him to produce an upper-tier Core.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s goal was the same: to hide his identity and the quality of his Golden Dan.


    During the Core Formation process, the apanying heavenly phenomenon couldn¡¯t be concealed unless an exceptionallyrge-scale illusion array was used.


    Only in Wangyue Immortal City could one form a Core without their identity or origins being questioned.


    ...


    In any third-rank immortal city of the Liang Kingdom, the phenomenon of forming a Golden Dan would inevitably rm the sect forces in the surrounding area.


    "An unknown individual forming a Golden Dan within the sect''s territory? The sect''s Nascent Soul True Monarchs and high-level Core Formation elders would certainly investigate thoroughly."


    In fact, the situation could be even worse.


    Before Lan Chang''an had evenpleted his Core Formation, sect elders or even a Nascent Soul True Monarch might have already been waiting outside his cave dwelling.


    After all, the process of Core Formation was not something that could bepleted in a single day or two.


    If the individual in question had an unknown or suspicious identity, or worse, was a cultivator from a rival faction, they would likely be treated as a demonic spy and eliminated on the spot.


    Although Lan Chang''an had a "clean" identity, it was one that couldn¡¯t be exposed and couldn¡¯t bear scrutiny.


    Therefore, Wangyue Immortal City was the best choice in the surrounding regions.


    Forming an upper-tier True Dan or a Golden Dan was tantamount to revealing one¡¯s wealth.


    A third-rank spiritual vein was essential for this process, and this kind of "wealth revtion" was nearly impossible to avoid because third-rank and fourth-rank spiritual veins were rare in the cultivation world.


    The same issue would arise when forming a Nascent Soul in the future.


    "If one is unwilling to ept even the slightest risk, then the door of Golden Dan and Nascent Soul, is not possible to go through."


    The differencey in whether you chose to reveal your wealth in a big city or a small one.


    In small ces¡ª


    Take the Mu Family at Feiyue Lake as an example. Even though it was their own territory, simply forming a Foundation Establishment cultivator could provoke threats from hostile factions.


    In Wangyue Immortal City, a high-tier, neutral fourth-rank city¡ª


    Not to mention Foundation Establishment, even ordinary Core Formation phenomenon barely attracted any attention.


    However, the journey to Wangyue Immortal City was long and fraught with risks. Only Fake Dan Immortals or higher cultivators had the safety assurances to make the trip.


    For a lone Foundation Establishment cultivator like "Nie Yuan," making the journey to Wangyue Immortal City was rare. Such individuals were easy targets, though they didn¡¯t fear robbery from weaker cultivators.


    Back in the day, Huanglong Mountain was tightly monitored by various sects, making it impossible for key figures to traverse the Liang Kingdom to reach remote ces like Wangyue Immortal City.


    The core members of Huanglong Mountain had already beenpromised¡ªhow could they have allowed Fu Xuemei to escape and form her Core in a distant region?


    Even when Fu Xuemei went to form her Core, she had to create a cover and fabricate the true Core Formation phenomenon just to evade internal traitors and sneak out via underground routes.


    At the time, the route to Liaoyuan Immortal City had already been blocked by numerous high-level cultivators.


    Fu Xuemei ended up forming her Core in the ck Fog Mountain Range. Luck was on her side, as she didn¡¯t attract the attention of any Great Demons in the area.


    The low-tier True Dan phenomenon she created was far weakerpared to a Golden Dan.


    When Earth Burrowing Rat reached Core Formation, its Half-Step Golden Dan phenomenon had already attracted a mid-stage third-rank Great Demon.


    Lan Chang''an sessfully formed his Golden Dan, and the resulting phenomenon was even more grand!


    A spiritual energy cloud spanning five li in radius, equivalent to ten li in diameter, formed¡ªa scaleparable to that of an entire city!


    Had he attempted Core Formation in the ck Fog Mountain Range, and with slightly worse luck, attracting a Nascent Beast at the Transformation Stage would not have been surprising.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an finished consolidating his cultivation realm.


    "An Immortal Golden Dan¡ªsomething I never dared to dream of in my previous life..."


    He opened his eyes, still feeling a lingering excitement in his heart.


    Even without any external fortuitous encounters, a Golden Dan cultivator had a two- to three-tenths chance of forming a Nascent Soul.


    In his previous life, with his average conditions during his Nascent Soul attempt, his sess rate had been at most one-tenth¡ªit would have been a miracle if he had seeded.


    "The path of cultivation forbidscency. Even as a Golden Dan cultivator, there¡¯s no guarantee of smoothly advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm."


    "If the sess rate of forming a Nascent Soul is below ny percent, how is that any different from courting death?"


    Lan Chang''an understood deeply that he still had a long way to go before reaching the Nascent Soul Realm.


    His current achievements were far from sufficient. He didn¡¯t even have the qualifications to marry and have children yet.


    There was still much work to be done.


    Only by steadily advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm could he truly take control of his own destiny.


    After stabilizing his realm, Lan Chang''an adjusted his spiritual aura.


    His second-life possession would stillst for another half a year.


    Bybining the soul power of his previous life with the spiritual sense of his Golden Dan cultivation in this life, Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense now far surpassed that of ordinary Core Formation cultivators.


    With his strengthened spiritual sense, the Hundred Illusion Mask¡¯s ability to disguise him had improved as well.


    Based on his past experiences:


    The identity simted by the Hundred Illusion Mask was now strong enough to fool even a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    This was one of the reasons why Lan Chang''an dared toe to Wangyue Immortal City to form his Golden Dan. It wasn¡¯t solely because of the city¡¯s neutral and orderly reputation.


    In his current state, his enhanced spiritual senses allowed him to keenly detect if a Nascent Soul cultivator¡¯s spiritual sense swept over or locked onto him.


    Everything was ready. Lan Chang''an dismantled the quasi-fourth-rank illusion array and officially exited seclusion.


    "Congrattions, Immortal Nie, on forming your Immortal Golden Dan!"


    Outside the cave dwelling, a crowd of cultivators had gathered. All of them were Core Formation cultivators.


    The weakest among them were Fake Dan cultivators, while the strongest werete-stage Core Formation experts. There were about twenty people in total.


    This wasn¡¯t because Core Formation cultivators were "cheap" or abundant.


    First, this was a high-tier immortal city.


    Second, once you enter a higher realm, you naturally join a corresponding social circle.


    At this level, even Foundation Establishment cultivators didn¡¯t dare approach Lan Chang''an to strike up a conversation.


    Even Fake Dan cultivators felt honored to exchange a few words with him.


    Meanwhile,te-stage Core Formation experts treated him with respect, conversing as equals and maintaining a polite demeanor.


    This was the allure of an Immortal Golden Dan, the seed of a future Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Who wouldn¡¯t want to establish a connection with a potential Nascent Soul True Monarch early on?


    Lan Chang''an scanned the group gathered outside his cave dwelling. Among the early-stage Core Formation cultivators present, none had spiritual power stronger than his.


    With his Immortal Golden Dan, he stood at the pinnacle of all Core Formation cultivators.


    "Immortal Nie, we faced many challenges together on the road, and yet once we parted in the city... I never expected Immortal Nie to soar to greatness and achieve an Immortal Golden Dan!"


    Granny Yan and Zhu Yuting finally managed to find an opportunity to speak with Lan Chang''an.


    If not for Zhu Yuting having sessfully formed a True Dan, she might not have been able to squeeze in a word.


    "Big Brother Nie, this is a congrattory gift from Granny and me."


    Zhu Yuting¡¯s usual cold and reserved demeanor was gone. Her beautiful face now bore a radiant, enchanting smile.


    She carefully held a gift box in both hands and solemnly presented it to Lan Chang''an.


    "Ah, Immortal Zhu, you¡¯re being too kind. I didn¡¯t even have the chance to congratte you on forming your True Dan."


    Lan Chang''an epted the gift box.


    The value of the gift was considerable¡ªworth tens of thousands of spirit stones.


    He didn¡¯t bother addressing Zhu Yuting¡¯s clever decision to change how she addressed him to "Big Brother Nie."


    When the other cultivators heard Zhu Yuting¡¯s new form of address, their gazes toward her subtly changed, their eyes carrying ambiguous expressions.


    That day, Lan Chang''an entertained the Core Formation cultivators who brought him gifts inside his cave dwelling.


    With congrattory gifts worth tens of thousands of spirit stones, Lan Chang''an felt obligated to reciprocate with hospitality.


    However, the Core Formation cultivators present didn¡¯t know that their efforts to forge connections and present gifts were ultimately futile.


    The identity of "Nie Yuan" was a disguise that Lan Chang''an likely wouldn¡¯t use much in the future.


    ...


    Hmm?


    While entertaining his guests, Lan Chang''an suddenly sensed something.


    A Nascent Soul-level spiritual sense swept over the area and lingered on him briefly.


    Over the course of an entire day, this kind of spiritual sense appeared three times, though it never disyed any hostility.


    There were also cautious probes fromte-stage Core Formation cultivators, which Lan Chang''an detected but chose to ignore, pretending not to notice.


    After attaining Golden Dan, Lan Chang''an acknowledged his current limitations.


    While he still couldn¡¯t defeatte-stage Core Formation cultivators in battle, he was confident that he no longer feared them.


    One of the Nascent Soul True Monarchs left behind a message through a voice transmission:


    "You lucky brat from the me Departing Pce. This old man, ¡®True Monarch Hengshan,¡¯ has a bit of a rtionship with the Lihuo Patriarch. With me here, no one around Wangyue Immortal City daresy a hand on you! Otherwise, who would repay the favor that old codger owes me?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s thoughts stirred.


    "True Monarch Hengshan? Is that the legendary Old Monster Xu, known for his skill in wielding heavy magical treasures?"


    Information about the Nascent Soul True Monarch surfaced in his mind.


    Among the nearby cultivation nations, there were only so many Nascent Soul cultivators.


    Old Monster Xu was one of the more unique ones. It was rumored that he had been supported by Wangyue Immortal City and ultimately seeded in forming his Nascent Soul.


    As part of an agreement with Wangyue Immortal City, he had to help defend the city for many years.


    "A favor from the Lihuo Patriarch? If that¡¯s the case, then excellent! The one who owes a favor is the master!"


    From the content of the voice transmission, Lan Chang''an could tell that this Nascent Soul old monster was trying to curry favor with him through a shared connection to the me Departing Pce.


    The appeal of an Immortal Golden Dan was undeniable. Even Nascent Soul True Monarchs, who couldn¡¯t guarantee that their descendants would achieve the same heights, often treated such individuals with respect and friendliness, hoping to establish a rtionship.


    After receiving the voice transmission, Lan Chang''an turned toward the center of the city and gave a respectful bow to express his gratitude.


    Wangyue Immortal City ¨C Fourth-Rank Spiritual Vein District.


    In one of the central cave residences...


    A red-faced, barefoot old man with a bulbous nose¡ªOld Monster Xu, True Monarch Hengshan¡ªnodded in satisfaction at Lan Chang''an¡¯s respectful gesture.


    "Hmm, forming a Golden Dan without arrogance orcency, showing respect for elders... A promising young talent."


    Something crossed his mind, and he pulled out amunication jade.


    He left a message on the jade:


    "Judging by his aura, he is indeed a descendant of the me Departing Pce and may have inherited part of the Lihuo Patriarch¡¯s legacy."


    The jade briefly shed before the recorded message disappeared.


    Earlier, his spiritual sense probe had confirmed "Nie Yuan''s" background.


    Even if this individual¡¯s identity had some discrepancies, Old Monster Xu wasn¡¯t interested in investigating further.


    For one, the rules of Wangyue Immortal City prohibited such actions. Openly viting them would tarnish his reputation.


    Second, Wangyue Immortal City had more than one Nascent Soul cultivator, making it impossible for anyone to dominate the citypletely or suppress all negative gossip.


    If someone targeted a Golden Dan cultivator, rival Nascent Soul cultivators might step in to protect them.


    Failing to eliminate the target would likely result in a future enemy at the Nascent Soul stage.


    In such cases, the Nascent Soul cultivator who intervened to protect the Golden Dan would not only harm their opponent but also gain favor from the rescued party.


    Therefore, unless absolutely necessary, Nascent Soul cultivators typically avoided offending neutral Golden Dan cultivators. Instead, they preferred to extend an olive branch.


    Especially for those Nascent Soul cultivators nearing the end of their lifespan, with only a century or two left, considerations for their descendants or disciples became increasingly important.


    As for Nie Yuan¡¯s apparent background, the me Departing Pce still held some influence.


    Even though the pce had relocated to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance, it still had high-level Core Formation masters.


    Like a centipede that refused to die, the pce could potentially rise again someday.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    After wrapping up his social obligations, Lan Chang''an chose not to host a grand Core Formation ceremony.


    Granny Yan and Zhu Yuting visited him once again.


    "Immortal Nie, now that the me Departing Pce no longer exists in the Liang Kingdom, if you have no pressing matters, why not visit Heng Kingdom as our guest?"


    Granny Yan¡¯s tone was warm as she enthusiastically extended the invitation.


    "Once you arrive in Heng Kingdom, Yuting will take good care of you."


    Hearing this, Zhu Yuting¡¯s reserved smile blossomed into a gentle expression. Her bright eyes sparkled like stars, carrying a hint of anticipation.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t oblivious¡ªhe could tell that Granny Yan was trying to match him with Zhu Yuting.


    Both were newly ascended Core Formation cultivators, making them a well-matched pair in terms of talent and looks. If they became Daopanions, it would indeed make for a celebrated union.


    As a Golden Dan cultivator, Lan Chang''an was at the apex of the ¡°mate selection hierarchy¡± among Core Formation cultivators.


    If he agreed, he could easily take Zhu Yuting, a True Dan female cultivator, as his Daopanion.


    In his previous life, during the early and mid-Core Formation stages, the most powerful wives or concubines he had were only Fake Dan cultivators. He had never been able to attract a True Dan female cultivator.


    What he couldn¡¯t achieve in his past life was now readily within his grasp in this one.


    "Immortal Nie, after forming my Core, I still have some personal matters to handle. Let¡¯s leave it for the future."


    Lan Chang''an politely but firmly declined.


    Zhu Yuting¡¯s heart sank in disappointment, but Granny Yan didn¡¯t press the matter.


    "Immortal Nie, this is a token of mine. When you visit Heng Kingdom, you can use it to contact Yuting."


    Zhu Yuting hesitated before taking out a piece of white jade, faintly emitting a subtle fragrance, from the folds of her robe.


    Lan Chang''an initially intended to refuse but changed his mind and epted the token.


    The piece of white jade, though only a second-rank spiritual artifact, bore the marks of an old inheritance. Its intimate proximity to Zhu Yuting suggested that it was a cherished possession.


    Zhu Yuting didn''t call him "Big Brother Nie" in private anymore, leaving Lan Chang''an with a slightly improved impression of her.


    "We have some matters to attend to in Heng Kingdom, so we won¡¯t trouble you further, Immortal Nie."


    Granny Yan and Zhu Yuting soon bid their farewells and departed.


    "Heng Kingdom..."


    Back inside his cave dwelling, Lan Chang''an murmured to himself as he carefully put away the still-warm white jade token.


    The Heng Kingdom was a small cultivation nation under the Righteous Dao Alliance, slightly weaker overall than the Jing Kingdom.


    Geographically, it bordered the eastern edge of the Feng Kingdom, making it the easternmost cultivation nation in the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Like the Liang Kingdom in the north, the Heng Kingdom was positioned at the rear of the battlefield against the demonic forces.


    By keeping the token, Lan Chang''an had given himself a potential escape route for the future.


    If the main direction of the demonic invasion focused on Liang Kingdom, Heng Kingdom¡ªon the far eastern edge¡ªmight serve as a safe haven for him to lie low.


    ...

 Chapter 275: Accelerating Growth

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Inside the cave-dwelling, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t leave Wangyue Immortal City in haste.


    Seated cross-legged with his eyes closed, he appeared to be cultivating and consolidating his foundation.


    In reality, he was fused with his second life, fully attuning his senses and maintaining a state of high vignce.


    Lan Chang''an wanted to ensure that no Nascent Soul-level cultivators were paying attention to him before leaving Wangyue Immortal City.


    Three dayster.


    Another wave of spiritual sense from a Nascent Soul cultivator swept briefly over him before moving on without lingering.


    This kind of subtle probing was nearly impossible for an ordinary Core Formation cultivator to detect.


    Lan Chang''an pondered to himself:¡°Previously, that old monster Xu left me a voice transmission with the intention of showing goodwill. Logically, as a junior, I should visit and pay my respects.¡±


    Unfortunately, he wasn¡¯t truly Nie Yuan. If he were, he could have used this opportunity to build a connection with a Nascent Soul-level backer.


    However, skipping such a visit wasn¡¯t a big issue.


    Not all cultivators liked towork or form alliances. Some cultivators were introverted, reserved, or held themselves aloof and preferred to avoid such interactions.


    Half a month passed.


    There was no longer any spiritual sense from Nascent Soul cultivators focusing on him.


    ¡°No rush.¡±


    Lan Chang''an only left his cave dwelling to purchase some resources in the city but still didn¡¯t depart Wangyue Immortal City.


    Even within the city, he maintained sharp vignce.


    The cost of goods in Wangyue Immortal City was higher than in most ces, so Lan Chang''an only bought a few rtively rare third-rank materials.


    The rent for third-rank cave dwellings in the city was also exorbitantly high, costing several thousand spirit stones a year.


    Perhaps due to its high-end positioning, the number of cultivators the city''s third-rank cave dwellings and inns could amodate was rtively limited.


    With the current tensions caused by the demonic sects invasion, rumors suggested that prices for inns and cave dwellings in the city would rise even further in the future, and restrictions on upancy might also be enforced.


    Moreover, Wangyue Immortal City prohibited outsiders from conducting business or setting up stalls, even street vending was not allowed.


    Ordinary cultivators staying here would eventually exhaust their resources.


    Lan Chang''an, carrying many secrets, knew he couldn¡¯t remain in Wangyue Immortal City for long.


    Currently, his lifespan had reached an impressive 1,144 years, yet he dared not elerate the cultivation of the Xuanmu Vine Gourd within the city.


    He would have to wait until he returned to Jin Yun Valley to attempt it.


    ...


    Another half a month passed.


    Lan Chang''an confirmed that no Nascent Soul-level cultivators were monitoring him.


    On this day, he "changed" at an inn in the city, assuming the guise of a middle-aged Fake Dan cultivator, and quietly left Wangyue Immortal City.


    There were no identity checks when entering or leaving the immortal city.


    Flying over a hundred li from the city, Lan Chang''an pulled out an Earth Escape Talisman and used it to swiftly tunnel through the ground for some distance. ?


    Finally, he relied on the abilities of the Earth Burrowing Rat to continue traveling underground.


    The rockyyers underground provided a strong barrier against spiritual sense.


    Combined with the distance he had traveled, the spiritual sense of the Nascent Soul cultivators in the city could no longer reach him.


    Thousands of li away from Wangyue Immortal City.


    Lan Chang''an adopted another guise, this time as an elderly Core Formation cultivator, and flew toward the Nine Fiery Heavens.


    When he finally reached the territory of the Liang Kingdom, Lan Chang''an breathed a sigh of relief.


    This time, sessfully attaining his Immortal Golden Dan was a smooth endeavor.


    Even if Nie Yuan¡¯s identity were to be investigated and found suspicious, it no longer mattered.


    What truly mattered was that Lan Chang''an not only seeded in forming his Golden Dan but also managed to conceal his identity.


    Although the phenomena of forming a Core were hard to hide, masking the grade of the Core afterward was rtively easy.


    Seven dayster.


    A white-robed man riding a turtle appeared, heading back toward Huanglong Immortal City from the direction of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    The direction of his appearance waspletely opposite to Wangyue Immortal City.


    Unless someone retraced his steps and deduced his actions, it would be nearly impossible to connect the two events.


    During his two previous attempts at Core Reformation, Lan Chang''an had used third-rank Illusory Truth Talismans to fabricate an alibi, creating the appearance of being in seclusion.


    For the third and final Core Reformation, which urred three yearster, he deliberately avoided using the same method to prevent suspicion from repetitive patterns.


    In the ck Fog Mountain Range, relying on the immense strength of his soul from merging his two lives, Lan Chang''an forcibly broke the third-rank spirit contract he had signed with Xie Wuji.


    The contract scroll in his hand turned to ash.


    ¡°A third-rank spirit contract forcibly destroyed¡­ The Xie Family in the Chen Kingdom will definitely receive news of this.¡±


    Lan Chang''an had anticipated this oue.


    But now, he was no longer a helpless loose cultivator. He was a True Dan Elder of Jin Yun Valley.


    No matter how powerful the Xie Family was, their influence couldn¡¯t extend far enough to act recklessly in the Liang Kingdom, which was under the control of the Golden Sun Sect.


    Besides, the Chen Kingdom bordered the frontlines of the demonic sect invasion. It was unlikely they would expend too much effort and resources on this matter.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    Lan Chang''an returned to Jin Yun Valley.


    "Elder Lan!"


    "Immortal Lan!"


    As he entered the sect''s mountain gate, the disciples on guard respectfully greeted him.


    At this moment, the aura of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Core still appeared to be that of an early-stage, low-tier True Dan.


    This outing of Lan Chang''an¡¯s had onlysted a few months, a rtively normal duration for travel among True Dan cultivators.


    In the hearnd of Jin Yun Valley, atop a mountain sustained by a third-rank spiritual vein stood a peak named Yui Peak, which served as Lan Chang''an¡¯s personal cultivation site.


    The territory under the jurisdiction of Yui Peak included not just the main peak but also the surrounding mountains and spiritual fields.


    This territory was Lan Chang''an¡¯s personal estate,parable in size to the entire Wuqi Mountain Range.


    Inside the Elder Residence on Yui Peak, two Qi-Refining disciples¡ªa young man and a woman¡ªstood respectfully, awaiting his return.


    They were servants Lan Chang''an had selected two years ago.


    He called them Little Dong and Little Qiu.


    The former had thick eyebrows,rge eyes, and a simple, honest demeanor; thetter was a delicate beauty with a willow-like waist and graceful bearing.


    Both were in their early twenties and at the Qi-Refining stage of cultivation.


    "Elder Lan, here is your mail."


    Little Qiu knelt and presented a jade box.


    Whoosh!


    Before she could hand it over, the jade box vanished from her grasp. In her ce, a spirit mouse the size of a small dog appeared, holding the box.


    Lan Chang''an opened the jade box to find many letters inside. Some were in the form of jade slips or scrolls, while others were written on paper or animal hide, most of them sealed with restrictions.


    As a Sect Elder and a third-rank talisman master, countless cultivators sought to establish connections with him.


    The letters that reached Lan Chang''an had already undergone an initial screening.


    From the pile, Lan Chang''an picked out a few from acquaintances or ones that piqued his interest.


    One letter came from Li Congren of Snow Plum Mountain, offering greetings to his elder along with some local specialties.


    Another was from Mu Bingyun, who still maintained her habit of writing to him, though the frequency was less than before.


    Her letters typically contained questions about talisman techniques, confessions of personal struggles, or nostalgic musings about the past.


    When in a good mood, Lan Chang''an would asionally reply to her.


    This time, Mu Bingyun mentioned in her letter that her husband had unfortunately died on the frontlines, leaving her with some concerns for the future.


    Lan Chang''an, however, couldn¡¯t be bothered with such matters. His past care for Mu Bingyun had been out of sentiment for an old rtionship and a lingering regret.


    A surprising letter arrived from the descendants of Zheng Centipede of the Apricot Vi, congratting Lan Chang''an.


    There were also some odd and intriguing letters.


    For instance, a message mentioned that Lin Ye, the former alchemist of the Wuqi Mountain, despite having passed away, had left behind an alchemy heir with outstanding talent.


    This apprentice had now be a second-rank alchemist and was expressing gratitude for Lan Chang''an¡¯s past kindness to theirte master.


    The final two letters were from Zhou Qingxuan and Xia Wenyue.


    Zhou Qingxuan extended an invitation for Lan Chang''an to visit the Beast Taming Zhou Family to discuss techniques and insights regarding beast taming.


    Though Lan Chang''an had little interest in beast taming, he thought he might find time to study the Gu insect restrictions in Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s mind, which could help him further refine his own unique restriction techniques.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s jade slip was sent from Proud Moon Pce in Feng Kingdom.


    The surrounding cultivation nations had formed the Righteous Dao Alliance to jointly resist the invasion of the demonic sects.


    The Feng and Liang Kingdoms were not affected by the war, so normal exchanges between the two nations continued.


    In her letter, Xia Wenyue congratted Lan Chang''an on forming his Core and updated him on her situation in Proud Moon Pce, reassuring him that he needn¡¯t worry.


    Because of the Xie Family¡¯s covetous ambitions, Proud Moon Pce was taking great care to protect Xia Wenyue.


    The sect, known for its primarily female legacy, assigned most male cultivators tobor or servitude roles, supporting the higher-ranking female disciples.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s master, a female Core Formation expert, had been especially kind to her.


    Still cultivating the Ancient Sealed Ice Scroll, Xia Wenyue¡¯s current resources were far superior to those in Qingsha Bay, her former home.


    Not long ago, she broke through to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment, her speed slightly faster than the average cultivator with earth spirtual roots.


    At the end of her letter, Xia Wenyue subtly expressed that she missed Lan Chang''an, vowing to repay the debt of rebirth she owed him.


    "After over a decade apart, it''s rare that this woman still has this heart," Lan Chang''an thought, nodding with faint satisfaction.


    However, after some consideration, he decided not to reply to Xia Wenyue.


    Her innate Dao physique was a unique identity, and any correspondence between them could easily be intercepted and scrutinized.


    Fortunately, Xia Wenyue wasn¡¯t foolish. Her expressions of longing in the letter were subtle, framed more as respect and concern for a mentor.


    "Until she reaches the mid- orte-stage of Core Formation, it¡¯s best to avoid contact and let the world gradually forget our connection."


    As long as Xia Wenyue upheld her heart demon oath, there was no need for emotional entanglements.


    Such ties would only invite disaster for Lan Chang''an.


    He believed that over the course of a century or more, as time washed away youthful infatuations and Xia Wenyue gained broader life experiences, whatever faint spark of unrequited feelings she harbored would eventually extinguish.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an descended into the underground stone hall beneath Yui Peak.


    This underground hall had been constructed over the past few years through tunnels excavated by his Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Initially, Lan Chang''an had invested materials and personally worked on the construction, using his own skills to build it.


    However, he soon realized that the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s innate magical abilities far surpassed his own when it came to building structures.


    So, he simply drew up detailed blueprints and left the rest to the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    The stone hall was fortified withyers uponyers of restrictions.


    Upon his return this time, Lan Chang''anid the quasi-fourth-rank formation here, while the third-rank formation on the surface residence was sufficient for day-to-day use.


    The Xuanmu Vine Gourd, which had been transnted to this underground hall, was now connected to the energy of the earth veins.


    A dedicated chamber had been created for it.


    "Let¡¯s begin."


    Lan Chang''an shooed out his reluctant Profound Water Turtle, leaving himself alone in the chamber.


    He immediately began to sacrifice his lifespan and activated the Evergreen secret spell.


    Buzz!


    A halo of ancient, vibrant green light radiated from his palm, resembling the tender glow of new sprouts. This light exuded the aura of life¡¯s cyclical seasons, merging into the withered yellow vines of the Xuanmu Vine Gourd.


    The Evergreen secret spell¡¯s restorative power wasn¡¯t simply fueled by his lifespan¡ªit was an inherent aspect of the technique itself.


    Even without sacrificing lifespan, the healing and nurturing abilities of the Evergreen Technique were extraordinary, surpassing even the skills of many renowned mortal physicians.


    For serious injuries ormon internal ailments, Lan Chang''an could treat and nourish someone back to health without burning through his lifespan.


    Sacrificing lifespan, however, would elevate the healing abilities of the technique to a transformative level, making it exponentially more effective.


    During his previous three Core Reformations, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t suffered severe injuries. Sacrificing lifespan in those cases dramatically improved the process, saving him vast amounts of time.


    Many secret arts in the cultivation world relied on lifespan as the price for achieving several-fold, or even tenfold, enhancements.


    "Four years of lifespan!"


    Lan Chang''an stopped and examined the changes in the Xuanmu Vine Gourd.


    The previously withered yellow vine now showed a faint green vitality extending about half an inch.


    Such a noticeable result far exceeded the capabilities of any Foundation Establishment cultivator¡ªit was at least ten times more effective!


    "Now that I¡¯ve formed an Immortal Golden Dan, the Evergreen Technique¡¯s innate nurturing ability has improved significantlypared to when I was an early True Dan cultivator," Lan Chang''an thought, a smile appearing on his face.


    At this rate, he estimated that a few hundred years of lifespan would be enough to restore the entire Xuanmu Vine Gourd to its lush, green state.


    Although "a few hundred years of lifespan" seemed like a hefty price, the target of his efforts was no ordinary treasure¡ªit was the lesser Xuantian Treasure Xuanmu Vine Gourd, an object born alongside the heavens themselves. Achieving such results was already remarkable.


    Based on his current Golden Dan-stage mana, Lan Chang''an calcted:


    "Roughly ten years of lifespan can restore one foot of green vitality to the vine."


    If he reached the mid- orte-stage of Core Formation, the Evergreen Technique¡¯s nurturing effects would likely improve further.


    "Forty years of lifespan!"


    After seeing the results, Lan Chang''an sacrificed another forty years of his lifespan.


    After a while, the previously withered parts of the Xuanmu Vine Gourd gained several more inches of green vitality.


    Hmm?


    At that moment, Lan Chang''an frowned, focusing his gaze on the small, shriveled ck gourd embryo attached to the vine.


    To be precise, it wasn¡¯t even a true gourd¡ªit was merely an embryonic form, not yet fully developed.


    Although the vine was showing signs of life, the embryonic Xuanmu Vine Gourd itself remained dead and lifeless.


    In Lan Chang''an¡¯s perception, the gourd embryo exuded an aura of death¡ªso dense and overwhelming that it seemed even more pronounced than before.


    Even the potent vitality of the Evergreen secret spell appeared powerless to revive it.


    "Could it be that the healing of the gourd requires the rebirth of the vine first? Only after the entire vine is fully restored can I attempt to cultivate a new Xuanmu Vine Gourd?"


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a long time.


    By this calction, sacrificing a few hundred years of lifespan would, at best, restore the vine to its full vitality.


    At that point, cultivating a new Xuanmu Vine Gourd would undoubtedly require even more time and an even greater cost in lifespan.


    He realized that the lifespan of a Core Formation cultivator alone might not be sufficient to achieve his goal.


    After all, he couldn¡¯t recklessly burn through all his lifespan¡ªhe needed to keep at least several hundred years as a baseline reserve.


    Unless he could obtain additional sources of lifespan.


    For example, using lifespan-extending treasures, such as second-rank superior Life Extension Pills, third-rank Life Extension Pills, or higher.


    Or, alternatively, by devouring the Dao fruits of others who cultivated the Evergreen Technique...


    "No rush¡­ Let''s observe for a while first."


    With over 1,100 years of lifespan remaining, Lan Chang''an temporarily withdrew his hand.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Through careful observation, Lan Chang''an discovered some good news.


    As long as he used the Evergreen Technique daily to channel vitality into the Xuanmu Vine Gourd, it would gradually regain its green vitality, albeit at a slow pace.


    Even the cloud rain spell of his Profound Water Turtle, though far less effective, could help sustain the vine¡¯s recovery.


    This confirmed that the vine had at least begun reversing its withered state.


    Theoretically, even without sacrificing his lifespan, the Xuanmu Vine Gourd would eventually recover fully, provided he had enough time.


    "The more of the vine that regains vitality, the faster its recovery should be," Lan Chang''an spected.


    Encouraged, he sacrificed another hundred years of lifespan, leaving himself with a thousand years remaining.


    But before he could wait for further results, Jin Yun Valley weed an unwee visitor¡ªone he had anticipated.


    "Xie Wuji of the Xie Family from the Chen Kingdom, an elder of the Heavenly Net Sect, hase to visit Jin Yun Valley!"


    A booming voice echoed as a massive iron fan magical treasure sliced through the skies of the Nine Fiery Heavens, carrying a young man d in a resplendent robe, arriving at Jin Yun Valley¡¯s mountain gate.


    After years of not seeing him, Xie Wuji¡¯s cultivation had reached the peak of the early Core Formation stage.


    "Fellow Daoist Xie, you¡¯ve traveled a long way¡ªwhat brings you here?"


    A heartyugh rang out as a handsome man, wearing a golden feathered robe and a tall crown, flew out from the mountain gate.


    It was Xuanxiao, the sect master of Jin Yun Valley and a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    "Greetings, Sect Master Xuanxiao," Xie Wuji greeted, suppressing his anger, and arched his hand in greeting.


    After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Xie Wuji revealed his purpose:


    "I request that your esteemed sect summon Immortal Lan. This man has broken his word and publicly tore apart a third-rank spirit contract. I, Xie Wuji, must confront him."


    Given that the visitor was an Elder of a Nascent Soul sect, Sect Master Xuanxiao sent word to notify Lan Chang''an.


    The Sect¡¯s Reception Hall.


    It didn¡¯t take long for Lan Chang''an to arrive.


    "Xie Wuji!"


    Before Xie Wuji could even speak, Lan Chang''an let out a thunderous rebuke:


    "Years ago, when I was merely in the Foundation Establishment Realm, you took advantage of my low cultivation to coerce me into signing a third-rank spirit contract. And now you dare toe here and y the victim?"


    Xie Wuji opened his mouth to retort but was momentarily stunned.


    He couldn¡¯t believe that the once-humble Lan Chang''an, who had previously endured and yielded to him, would now meet him with such a direct and scathing usation.


    "Lan Chang''an, don¡¯t you dare nder me! You epted the Xie Family¡¯s Core Formation resources, then reneged on your word after forming your True Dan. How could I, Xie Wuji, possibly coerce a True Dan cultivator into signing another spirit contract?"


    Xie Wuji sneered, his anger boiling over as he rebuffed the usation.


    It had been five or six years since the second spirit contract had been signed, during which Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t even visited Proud Moon Pce once.


    "Had I not agreed to renew the contract back then, I might never have returned to the Liang Kingdom. It was nothing more than a temporary measure."


    "As for the so-called Core Formation resources you so kindly provided, I will return it to you now."


    With that, Lan Chang''an tossed a porcin bottle to Xie Wuji.


    The bottle contained a water-element Core Formation item he had purchased separately, equivalent in value to the Pure Essence Water Xie Wuji had originally given him.


    "Lan Chang''an! You¡¯ve taken so many resources from my Xie Family over the years, and now you think you can brush it off with just one Core Formation item?!"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s expression turned dark as he sneered coldly.


    "So many resources?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes shed with amusement as he chuckled lightly:


    "I can swear a heart demon oath that, aside from that one Core Formation item, I¡¯ve taken nothing else from the Xie Family. Can you swear the same¡ªthat you haven¡¯t embezzled any of the Xie Family¡¯s resources?"


    Hearing this, Xie Wuji¡¯s face changed slightly.


    "Shameless Turtle Immortal! How dare you twist the truth, muddy the waters, and turn the tables on me!" Xie Wuji cursed furiously, saliva flying as he argued.


    Watching the two trade insults like mortals squabbling in a marketce, Sect Master Xuanxiao was left speechless. Seizing an opportunity, he quietly slipped away.


    An hourter.


    "Jin Yun Valley, by sheltering this shameless scoundrel, will surely face retribution!"


    Cursing under his breath, Xie Wuji finally stormed out of Jin Yun Valley.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    But as he flew into the Nine Fiery Heavens, Xie Wuji¡¯s angry expression faded, reced by a faint smirk.


    "Heh! That Lan Chang''an yed along perfectly. After this performance, the resources I embezzled can now be written off!"


    As it turned out, in an effort to persuade Lan Chang''an to cooperate, the Xie Family had once provided him with a batch of True Dan-level resources, including the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Xie Wuji, knowing that Lan Chang''an had no intention of fulfilling his obligations, had simply pocketed the resources himself.


    Today¡¯s confrontation had been nothing more than a performance.


    By using Lan Chang''an of betrayal, Xie Wuji had shifted the me for the embezzled resources onto him.


    With the ongoing war against the demonic sects, the Xie Family would have no time or energy to investigate further.


    "That brat has quite the appetite, though. He even sent me a transmission asking for half of the embezzled resources!"


    Xie Wuji sneered inwardly.


    In his view, letting the matter drop and avoiding further conflict with Lan Chang''an was already a win-win oue.


    Clearly, Lan Chang''an understood this as well and had no intention of continuing the dispute or bing an enemy of the Xie Family.


    Half a dayter.


    Xie Wuji flew over the deste region between the Liang and Chen Kingdoms.


    Night fell, and the Nine Fiery Heavens grew dark, with fierce gales howling through the skies.


    "With these embezzled resources, after umting a few more years of war merit, I can attempt breakthrough to mid-stage Core Formation..."


    As Xie Wuji flew toward the Heavenly Net Sect in the Chen Kingdom, he silently plotted his next steps.


    Suddenly.


    A strange ck mist appeared in his vision, rushing toward him on the howling winds.


    "Who¡¯s there?!"


    Xie Wuji shouted angrily, but in the blink of an eye, he was enveloped in an inky ck dome spanning several li.


    From the outside, it looked like a pitch-ck barrier had sealed Xie Wuji off from the world.


    Inside the dome, the air turned icy cold, and an eerie, bone-chilling aura surged forth.


    Two phantom-like shadows, each wielding a de of darkness, emerged from the mist and attacked Xie Wuji from both sides.


    "Unseen Gate!"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s heart froze as he unleashed his Core power, forming a golden ring barrier around him that was as solid as steel.


    Boom!


    His iron fan magical treasure expanded to the size of a giant Buddha¡¯s hand, gleaming with ayer of dark gold light. It swept through the air, stirring up violent gales that could shatter mountains and tear cities apart.


    However, the two shadowy figures were incredibly agile, disappearing and reappearing unpredictably, even swapping ces at times.


    Xie Wuji¡¯s iron fan struck nothing but air, its massive attacks missing again and again.


    The residual force of his strikes wasn¡¯t enough to harm the two shadowy figures, whose strength matched early-stage Core Formation cultivators but whose speed rivaled mid-stage Core Formation experts.


    Shing!


    The shadowy des cut through Xie Wuji¡¯s golden barrier, leaving cracks and gashes.


    As time passed, Xie Wuji¡¯s energy waned, and deep wounds began to appear on his shoulders, ribs, and legs, exposing bone.


    No matter how hard he fought, he couldn¡¯t shake off his attackers or escape their relentless pursuit.


    It was as though he were being hunted by a curse, haunted by ghostly wraiths.


    "Which Unseen Gate expert is this? Reveal your name!"


    Pale-faced and drenched in cold sweat, Xie Wuji shouted as he fumbled through his storage pouch for hisst remaining Restriction-Breaking Talisman and mid third-rank Escape Talisman.


    Shunk!


    A massive scythe, wreathed in gray-white energy, emerged from the shadows and pierced through Xie Wuji¡¯s chest.


    "Unseen Gate¡¯s Shadow Hall Chief, as you wished!"


    A chilling voice, like the echo of a frozen abyss, resounded in Xie Wuji¡¯s ears.


    His body convulsed as he struggled to turn around.


    Behind him stood a cloaked figure, whose iron chains connected to the blood-stained scythe that had run him through. The figure¡¯s aura merged seamlessly with the surrounding darkness.


    The Hall Master¡¯s power radiated at the peak of mid-stage Core Formation, far beyond Xie Wuji¡¯s ability to resist.


    The two shadowy wraiths that had been attacking Xie Wuji now melted back into the Hall Master¡¯s shadow-like phantoms returning home.


    "Shadow Hall¡­ Hall Master¡­"


    Xie Wuji¡¯s eyes dimmed, and his consciousness sank into an eternal abyss of darkness.


    Chapter 275: elerating the Growth of the Xuanmu Vine

 Chapter 276: Wrongly Accusing a Good Man

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwereN?v(el)B\\jnn


    Jin Yun Valley, Yui Peak.


    After sending Xie Wuji away, Lan Chang''an shifted his focus back to the Xuanmu Vine Gourd.


    After all, he had invested 144 years of his lifespan into it.


    Through two months of observation, Lan Chang''an noticed that the vine¡¯s natural recovery of greenness had more than doubled! Even without sacrificing more of his lifespan, by merely nourishing and cultivating it daily with the Evergreen Technique, the vine could fully recover its greenness within a thousand years.


    This estimate was based on his current early-stage Core Formation cultivation.


    As he advanced to the mid orte stages of the Core Formation, the natural recovery rate would improve significantly.


    If he ascended to the Nascent Soul Realm, the recovery time could be drastically shortened.


    If he wasn¡¯t willing to sacrifice more lifespan, relying solely on time, perhaps just a few hundred years would suffice.In addition, Lan Chang''an confirmed a certain phenomenon:


    After hisst sacrifice of 100 years of lifespan, the embryonic gourd on the vine further decayed, turning ck with increasingly potent death energy.


    This reminded Lan Chang''an of a vague legend recorded in the Xuantian Mysteries:


    Whether it was the Lesser Xuantian or the Great Xuantian, after the creation of a realm, it was said to produce a singr, unique treasure of unparalleled value.


    If one such Xuantian Treasure already existed or was in the process of growing, then even if other regions had nurturing vessels, they would be unable to produce another identical treasure.


    With that thought, Lan Chang''an summoned the Profound Water Turtle and assigned it a task.


    ¡°This withered embryonic gourd fruit¡ªwhenever it falls, report to me immediately.¡±


    Hearing its master¡¯s order, the Profound Water Turtle blinked its watery green eyes. Its simple and honest demeanor remained unchanged as it stretched out itsrge head and nodded repeatedly.


    Lan Chang''an sighed. Since the Profound Water Turtle had grownrger, it wasn¡¯t as cute as it used to be when it was younger.


    This turtle preferred stillness over movement, but it remained reliable and obedient.


    ...


    With the Xuanmu Vine Gourd taking root, Lan Chang''an settled into a stable routine of cultivation at Jin Yun Valley.


    The materials needed for crafting third-rank talismans were not overly abundant, so his task of crafting talismans was rtively light.


    As an honorary elder, his other duties mainly involved managing secondary logistical resources and asionally offering guidance to the sect¡¯s talisman makers.


    Now that he was in the early stage of the Core Formation, Lan Chang''an only needed to cultivate for one or two hours each day. Any time spent beyond that would not yield further progress in his cultivation.


    The time limitations of the Evergreen Technique still applied even after forming a Golden Dan.


    Nevertheless, Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation speed during the early stage with the Golden Dan wasn¡¯t considered slow.


    ¡°At my current pace, I estimate that it will take about one full cycle of sixty years to reach the peak of the early Core Formation stage.¡±


    This was the timeframe Lan Chang''an calcted after stabilizing his cultivation.


    Among Core Formation cultivators, this speed was considered normal¡ªnot particrly fast, but not slow either.


    It was simr to how things had been in his previous life.


    In his past life, he possessed high-grade spiritual roots and had formed a mid-tier True Dan.


    Having experienced the steady progression through the Qi-Refining and Foundation Establishment stages, Lan Chang''an was content with his current rate of progress.


    He spected that after forming the Golden Dan, there might be some additional benefits.


    Moreover, advancing through the minor stages within the Core Formation realm was rtively easier, and he wouldn¡¯t be stuck at bottlenecks for long.


    For Core Formation cultivators, the quality of their Core was the greatest determinant of their potential and foundation.


    At this stage, Lan Chang''an no longer needed to rely on the Evergreen Technique to measure his foundation. His Golden Dan itself was the strongest testament to his Dao foundation.


    Cultivators at this level typically practiced high-level techniques with extraordinary inheritances.


    The current unique advantage of the Evergreen Technique was the improvement it provided to his state of mind, surpassing most other techniques in this aspect.


    This enhancement to his mental state was a characteristic shared by many life-nurturing techniques, achieved at the expense ofbat prowess.


    Aside from the Evergreen Technique, Lan Chang''an remained diligent in his auxiliary practice of body refinement.


    This allowed him to make full use of his spare time.


    In the cultivation world, it was rare for someone to seed in both body refinement and traditional cultivation.


    The reasons were numerous: the extensive time and energy required, the scarcity of resources and materials, and the innate talent needed for body refinement.


    But Lan Chang''ancked none of these.


    As a result, his progress in practicing the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art was noticeably faster than his progress with the Evergreen Technique.


    Currently, Lan Chang''an had over 400,000 spirit stones in his possession.


    More than half of this wealth came from the storage ring of Master Lihuo.


    The rest was umted through recent years of gains, most of which came from congrattory gifts received from the multiple Core Reformations, some of which he had converted into spirit stones.


    With such abundant wealth, Lan Chang''an had no shortage of precious materials for body refinement and medicinal baths.


    Other body refiners would find their bodies fatigued or overburdened after more than two hours of daily practice, leaving them prone to injuries or damage to their physical foundations.


    However, Lan Chang''an¡¯s endurance and recovery abilities were exceptional, and he rarely experienced fatigue.


    Even in the rare cases where his cultivation strained or damaged his body, he could swiftly heal himself using the Evergreen Technique, ensuring nosting harm.


    This allowed Lan Chang''an to train for longer periods with greater intensity, naturally leading to more efficient progress.


    ¡°If there are no external factors, like a demonic invasion, I could potentially stay in Jin Yun Valley for another century or two and cultivate to the peak of thete Core Formation stage.¡±


    Lan Chang''an hoped that the Righteous Dao Alliance could hold off the demonic invaders, giving him more time to focus on his cultivation.


    As an Immortal Golden Dan cultivator, as long as he reached the mid-Core Formation stage, he would be considered a powerhouse among his peers, with strength that far surpassed others.


    If he advanced to thete Core Formation stage, he would be unmatched below the Nascent Soul level.


    Among the peak Core Formation cultivators, the best of them could even stand their ground against a Nascent Soul True Monarch, with a chance of survival or escape.


    ...


    On this day, afterpleting his regr cultivation routine, which included nurturing his treasure talismans, Lan Chang''an reflected on his progress.


    Ever since forming his Golden Dan, the effects of nurturing his treasure talismans had improved by several degrees. Based on his calctions, there was a chance he could cultivate a fourth-rank treasure talisman within a century.


    The best eight talismans in his possession were crafted using Tong Ghost Bamboo, a superior-grade third-rank material.


    Among these, two were of exceptional quality, crafted from the pinnacle of third-rank materials. The other six, while slightly lower in rank, were still superior quality items within the third rank.


    Since attaining Golden Dan, Lan Chang''an¡¯s nurturing of mid- and low-grade third-rank talismans had shown consistent and visible progress.


    In particr, treasure talismans with lesser foundations benefited the most from nurturing. For instance, a low-grade third-rank treasure talisman could be elevated to mid-grade within thirty years of cultivation.


    In his past life, his inheritance of treasure talisman-making knowledge had been iplete. Over the course of this life, Lan Chang''an had spent over a hundred years refining and perfecting those techniques.


    Bybining his improved techniques with the unique qualities of the Evergreen Technique, he had achieved remarkable results.


    However, his treasure talisman-crafting inheritance was limited to the third rank. He could only produce third-rank talismans; techniques for fourth-rank talismans had been lost to time.


    After carefully storing away over sixty treasure talismans, Lan Chang''an suddenly sensed activity from the Elder¡¯s token in his storage pouch.


    A faint white glow radiated from the token.


    When his palm made contact with it, he received the transmitted message.


    ¡°Elder Lan, pleasee to the Sect Master¡¯s Hall.¡±


    The message was sent by Xuanxiao Immortal, the Sect Master of the Jin Yun Sect.


    Such messaging techniques were primarily reserved for sect leaders and high-level elders in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, as the costs of crafting themunication devices were exorbitant.


    Moreover, the range of transmission was limited, typically spanning several hundred to a thousand li.


    Fortunately, the Jin Yun Valley¡¯s territory was outfitted with hidden ry formations, which expanded the range of such transmissions.


    As a result, high-ranking elders could stay connected and exchange brief messages as long as they were within the valley¡¯s sphere of influence.


    Without any hesitation, Lan Chang''an flew directly toward the Sect Master¡¯s Hall.


    ...


    ¡°Elder Lan, take a look at this intelligence report,¡± the Jinyun Sect Master said with an impassive expression. With a flick of his finger, a jade slip flew into Lan Chang''an¡¯s hand.


    "Xie Wuji¡­ Missing and Presumed Dead!"


    Reading the contents of the jade slip, Lan Chang''an was momentarily stunned.


    He was caught off guard!


    He hadn¡¯t even made a move yet, and Xie Wuji had somehow died under mysterious circumstances?


    The grudge Xie Wuji bore against him had always been etched in Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind. His original n was to wait until the demonic invasion caused the decline of the Xie Family in the Chen Kingdom and then seek an opportunity to exact his revenge in the future.


    The Chen Kingdom was located at the forefront of the demonic invasion. The Xie Family and their allied sect, the Heavenly Net Sect, were bound to suffer losses, potentially even facing destruction.


    At the very least, Lan Chang''an nned to bide his time until he reached the mid orte Core Formation stage. By then, after nurturing the Barbed Arrow with true fire for decades or even centuries, he could ambush Xie Wuji and take his life in a single strike.


    But ns often failed to keep up with reality. Who could have expected this man to die so soon?


    ¡°The intelligence report came from the Chen Kingdom, and the incident likely urred about two months ago,¡± the Sect Master said in a deep voice. ¡°At first, the Xie Family concealed the news of Xie Wuji¡¯s death, conducting their own secret investigation¡­¡±


    Two months ago?


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression shifted slightly. That was precisely when Xie Wuji had confronted him, and the two had exchanged heated words before parting ways.


    ¡°What conclusion did the Xie Family¡¯s investigation yield?¡± Lan Chang''an asked, already sensing trouble.


    ¡°The Xie Family of the Chen Kingdom ims that you, Immortal Lan, are the prime suspect. They use you of colluding with the Xuan Yin Sect or the Unseen Gate to assassinate Xie Wuji,¡± the Sect Master replied, his expression subtly tinged with amusement.


    Lan Chang''an froze for a moment before his expression darkened.


    How utterly absurd!


    ¡°Preposterous! The Xie Family must be blind to use an innocent man!¡± Lan Chang''an said angrily, his voiceced with frustration.


    He had been framed out of nowhere!


    While Lan Chang''an had indeed harbored the intent to kill Xie Wuji, he had never actually acted on it.


    In the short term, Lan Chang''an had no intention of provoking the Xie Family, which had a Nascent Soul cultivator backing them. His verbal sh with Xie Wuji two months ago had merely been a facade to smooth things over temporarily.


    It was impossible for him to have killed Xie Wuji immediately after their argument¡ªit would have been far too reckless, and the motive would have been ringly obvious.


    Even if Lan Chang''an had the capability to contact assassins from the demonic sects, it would have been impossible to arrange everything in such a short amount of time.


    ¡°Immortal Lan, you needn¡¯t worry. Our sect is confident that this matter has nothing to do with you. Besides, the Xie Family has no concrete evidence,¡± the Sect Master reassured him.


    It was clear to any rational observer that Lan Chang''an had likely been falsely used and was not the true culprit.


    Firstly, as someone who had only recently entered the Core Formation stage, Lan Chang''an would find it exceedingly difficult to pose a threat to Xie Wuji, an experienced cultivator at the peak of the early Core Formation stage.


    Killing Xie Wuji without leaving any traces would require an individual of far greater strength.


    Secondly, Lan Chang''an had a reputation for being mild-mannered and avoiding conflict. Furthermore, he had been within Jin Yun Valley during the time of the incident and had a solid alibi.


    The Xie Family¡¯s decision to suspect Lan Chang''an stemmed from ack of other leads. The only clue they had was that Xie Wuji had died in the wilderness near the Chen Kingdom¡¯s border.


    The only remotely relevant connection was the verbal argument Xie Wuji had with Lan Chang''an shortly before his death¡ªa tenuous link at best.


    In mundane murder cases, investigators often scrutinized individuals who had prior conflicts with the victim. This principle seemed to apply here as well.


    ¡°The Taihu Xie Family of the Chen Kingdom is known for their arrogance and overbearing ways. They¡¯ve made countless enemies over the years. Unable to find the real culprit, they¡¯re simply using an innocent man as a scapegoat,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a hint of mockery in his tone.


    After a moment of contemtion, he deduced the Xie Family¡¯s likely motives.


    In truth, the Xie Family probably suspected the Unseen Gate or the Xuan Yin Sect.


    With the start of the war, the Unseen Gate had initiated several covert assassination operations. The Xuan Yin Sect¡¯s Sect Master, Liang Shaotian, was more than capable of effortlessly eliminating Xie Wuji without leaving any traces behind.


    Framing Lan Chang''an as a suspect, however, offered the Xie Family two key advantages:


    For one, it provided an exnation both internally and externally, giving them a scapegoat to deflect me.


    Secondly, it gave them a pretext to pressure Xia Wenyue to intervene on Lan Chang''an¡¯s behalf, thereby gaining some leverage.


    ¡°Immortal Lan, as an Elder of Jin Yun Valley, you have nothing to fear. Without irrefutable evidence, even the Heavenly Net Sect of the Chen Kingdom cannoty a finger on you,¡± the Sect Master stated with calm authority, his words brimming with confidence.


    Lan Chang''an expressed his gratitude and loyalty on the spot.


    As long as Jin Yun Valley stood by him, the Xie Family¡¯s reach would fall short. It was nearly impossible for them to pose a threat to an Elder of another sect in a foreign nation.


    What¡¯s more, the Liang Kingdom, governed by the Golden Sun Sect, was more powerful than the Chen Kingdom.


    Jin Yun Valley was aligned with the Golden Sun Sect, making any attempt to harm its members a direct affront to the dominant sect of the Liang Kingdom.


    Even if Lan Chang''an had belonged to a weaker sect in Jing Kingdom, as long as his sect was willing to protect him, the Xie Family would likely find themselves at an impasse.


    In the cultivation world, international dynamics also yed a role. Stronger nations could not easily bully the sects of weaker nations without facing bacsh.


    This was especially true during the current crisis, as the Six Demonic Sects rampaged across the region.


    ...


    Returning to his cave abode, Lan Chang''an wore a dark expression.


    In this life, this was the first time he had been falsely used and forced to carry the me for something he didn¡¯t do.


    The question of who killed Xie Wuji was secondary.


    If anything, Lan Chang''an felt like he owed that mysterious killer a small debt of gratitude for avenging him in advance.


    What truly infuriated him was the Xie Family of the Chen Kingdom!


    They likely knew he wasn¡¯t the real culprit, yet they stillbeled him as the prime suspect.


    ¡°Fine. From now on, I, Lan Chang''an, won¡¯t step a single foot outside the Jin Yun Valley¡¯s sphere of influence. Let¡¯s see what you can do about it!¡±


    Lan Chang''an sneered coldly, his mind made up.


    Now that he had formed his Golden Dan, as long as external circumstances didn¡¯t force his hand, he was more than willing to remain in seclusion for a full cycle of sixty years, advancing to the mid-stage of the Core Formation realm.


    With his long lifespan, he could afford to be patient.


    ¡°Strange¡­ I haven¡¯t heard from Xing Peng in the past few months.¡±


    Lan Chang''an sat down to drink tea, his sharp intuition quickly picking up on something unusual.


    Xing Peng was his informant, someone he had a special method of contacting within the vicinity of Jin Yun Valley.


    Xing Peng had infiltrated Jin Yun Valley by assuming the identity of an outer disciple. The original outer disciple had died during a sect mission, and Xing Peng reced him using the Green Face of the Unseen Gate.


    While Xing Peng typically avoided meeting Lan Chang''an directly, he would send him periodic reports.


    These encrypted reports were delivered by the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Several dayster, Xing Peng finally re-established contact with Lan Chang''an.


    At that time, Lan Chang''an was inspecting logistical resources under his jurisdiction, fulfilling his duties as an honorary elder. Through spiritual sense, he discreetlymunicated with Xing Peng, who was disguised as an outer disciple.


    ¡°Master Lan, I¡¯ve received orders from higher-ups to temporarily suspend the mission tracking you,¡± Xing Peng transmitted his report directly into Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind using spiritual sense.


    ¡°Later, I found out that the higher-ups in the Unseen Gate carried out the assassination of Xie Wuji.¡±


    ¡°The one who executed the mission was likely my cousin, the Shadow Hall Chief. Soon, he will be promoted to the Unseen Gate¡¯s sub-branch leader for Jing Kingdom.¡±


    "The Shadow Hall Chief?"


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly. He remembered that there was no official Unseen Gate sub-branch in Jing Kingdom; previously, it had been managed by a sub-branch leader from Liang Kingdom, with only three hall masters overseeing operations in Jing.


    ¡°With the rise of the Xuan Yin Sect, Liang Shaotian¡¯s advancement to thete Core Formation stage was faster than expected. The Unseen Gate has revised its evaluation of Jing Kingdom,¡± Xing Peng exined.


    ¡°My cousin has reached the peak of the mid-Core Formation stage, making him one of the top hall masters in terms of strength. He has earned the favor of the Unseen Gate¡¯s higher-ups. This assassination was likely a test for him.¡±


    After providing his detailed report, Xing Peng sincerely apologized:


    ¡°This was a failure on my part. I was careless and failed to anticipate the situation, causing you to be wrongfully used.¡±


    ¡°Thest operation was a decision made by the Unseen Gate¡¯s upper echelons,pletely beyond my capabilities.¡±


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t hold Xing Peng personally responsible but made a mental note to do a soul search on himter to confirm his loyalty.


    Now that it was confirmed the Unseen Gate was behind the assassination, the situation became much clearer.


    Xie Wuji had been a core figure in multiple power dynamics¡ªhe was a direct descendant of the Xie Family, a Core Formation elder of the Heavenly Net Sect, and the biological father of Xia Wenyue, who was affiliated with the Proud Moon Pce.


    His death inevitably implicated the Xie Family, the demonic sects, Jin Yun Valley, and the Proud Moon Pce.


    Even Xia Wenyue, now residing in the Proud Moon Pce, would find her mind preupied with this matter.


    As for Lan Chang''an, he would definitely grow more resentful toward the Xie Family after being falsely used.


    In the intelligence gathered by the Unseen Gate, Lan Chang''an was far from an ordinary Core Formation cultivator.


    ¡°Stirring up chaos and causing infighting among the major factions of the Righteous Dao Alliance¡ªthat is precisely the Unseen Gate¡¯s goal,¡± Lan Chang''an realized.


    This false usation was inevitable.


    It was exactly like the saying: ¡°The hunter who chases geese all day will eventually be pecked by one.¡±


    At the very least, Lan Chang''an now knew exactly who had framed him. One day, he would settle this score.


    ...


    That night.


    Lan Chang''an, taking advantage of the lingering second life possession, conducted a soul-search on Xing Peng.


    The process was overseen by the persona of the mysterious white-bearded elder at the peak of the Core Formation stage.


    He only searched through the surface memories of the past year, ensuring minimal harm to Xing Peng¡¯s sea of consciousness.


    Xing Peng, eager to prove his loyalty, cooperated fully and did not disy any signs of betrayal.


    Afterpleting the soul-search, Lan Chang''an reinforced the restrictions on Xing Peng¡¯s sea of consciousness.


    By using the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu''s restriction, he further refined his unique technique for controlling others, which he had named the ¡°Gu God Seal¡±.


    Lan Chang''an, with his long lifespan and abundant free time, was able to continuously improve this technique despite not being a prodigy inprehension.


    The restriction he applied this time was significantly stronger than the one he had used in the Jing Kingdom, as his recent breakthrough to attain the Golden Dan and the fusion of his second life''s soul power had greatly enhanced his spiritual capabilities.


    Moreover, his understanding of the Gu insect restriction had improved further in the years since he re-applied the restrictions on Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sea of consciousness during his time in the Liang Kingdom.


    The old man persona delivered his verdict with a solemn tone, exuding an aura of invible authority:


    ¡°Junior, the restriction in your sea of consciousness is one that even an average Nascent Soul cultivator would struggle to break.¡±


    He paused before continuing, bncing reward and punishment:


    ¡°In light of your demonstrated loyalty, this old man shall bestow upon you an opportunity to reforge your core, valid for the next three years. Upon your return, prepare the necessary resources yourself.¡±


    With those words, the white-bearded elder vanished from Xing Peng¡¯s outer disciple quarters.


    In reality, the so-called opportunity for reforging the core was merely Lan Chang''an¡¯s way of using Xing Peng as a test subject.


    Xing Peng was about thirty years younger than Lan Chang''an, making him still young enough to have a chance at sessfully reforming his Core.


    As a Unseen Gate operative holding the position of Incense Master, Xing Peng possessed some personal resources and connections, meaning he could gather the necessary materials on his own.


    Even if the experiment failed and Xing Peng perished in the process, Lan Chang''an would suffer no loss.


    ...


    A few monthster.


    The second life in Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind had already dissipated.


    Thanks to his Golden Dan-level soulbined with the nourishment of his Soul-Nurturing Bracelet, Lan Chang''an could reignite his second life ability at an impressive pace.


    He calcted that it would take just a single year to fully reactivate it, and this time could be further reduced once he reached the mid-stage of the Core Formation realm.


    While the time required to reactivate second life had significantly decreased, the boost it provided to his overall strength was far less impactfulpared to when he was in the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Still, the enhanced soul state brought by second life offered substantial benefits in specific areas, such as crafting talismans, applying the Gu God Seal, and simting identities using the Hundred Illusions Mask.


    On this day.


    While Lan Chang''an was in seclusion, he sensed a powerful Core Formation aura approaching Jin Yun Valley.


    ¡°Ate-stage Core Formation expert,¡± Lan Chang''an noted, immediately realizing that the visitor came with ill intentions.


    The visitor was not the Grand Elder of Jin Yun Valley, which made their presence all the more suspicious.


    The Sect Master of Jin Yun Valley, Xuanxiao Immortal, personally went out to greet the intruder.


    The visitor was an emaciated old man in coarse hemp robes, his eye sockets sunken and his expression sinister.


    During their confrontation, the Jin Yun Valley¡¯s protective formation was briefly activated.


    Observing from the shadows, Lan Chang''an learned that the visitor was a senior member of the Xie Family, here to pressure Jin Yun Valley into handing him over to the Heavenly Net Sect of the Chen Kingdom for investigation.


    ¡°Immortal Xie, say no more! Your sect has no concrete evidence. To falsely use one of our Elders is something Jin Yun Valley will not tolerate!¡±


    Xuanxiao Immortal¡¯s voice was firm and authoritative as he raised his hand, signaling the visitor to leave.


    Lan Chang''an silently apuded.


    His decision to join Jin Yun Valley had proven wise¡ªhaving such a strong backing was invaluable.


    He resolved to fulfill his duties as an honorary elder diligently. In the future, if he was unfortunate enough to run away, he would have to be polite and help when he could.


    As long as he remained in Jin Yun Valley, the Xie Family and the Heavenly Net Sect would be powerless to touch him.


    Furthermore, as the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation forces were stronger than those of the Chen Kingdom, the Xie Family¡¯s influence was limited across national borders.


    The hemp-robed elder, clearly displeased, had no choice but to retreat.


    Before leaving, he requested to see Lan Chang''an in person, but Xuanxiao Immortal decisively refused.


    After all the visiter was ate-stage Core Formation expert, and Xuanxiao Immortal was wary of any sinister methods he might use to harm Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, are you so guilty that youck the courage to show yourself?¡±


    The old man¡¯s voice, like rolling thunder, echoed across Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an, unbothered, calmly brewed tea in his cave abode.


    ¡°Uncle Lan, they¡¯vee knocking at your door! You¡¯re not really the culprit who conspired with the Unseen Gate to assassinate Xie Wuji, are you?¡±


    Sitting nearby and munching on spiritual fruits, Zhao Tan¡¯er teased him with her yful gaze.


    ¡°¡®Turtle Immortal,¡¯ huh? If he¡¯s so capable, why doesn¡¯t he just stay in Jin Yun Valley forever?¡±


    Unable to see Lan Chang''an, the hemp-robed elder left onest mocking remark before departing.


    ¡°Uncle Lan, he¡¯s taunting you,¡± Zhao Tan¡¯er said with a mischievous smile, her pearly teeth showing as her eyes sparkled.


    ¡°His advice is good!¡±


    Lan Chang''an took a sip of his spirit tea and replied in a leisurely tone:


    ¡°Uncle Lan will stay in Jin Yun Valley. Tending to turtles, nting herbs, drawing talismans, and savoring tea¡ªwhy not enjoy a life of peace?¡±


    Zhao Tan¡¯er burst intoughter, her chest rising and falling as her bright eyes twinkled with mischief.


    ¡°You¡¯re really serious about this, huh?¡±


    In her view, the Xie Family¡¯s threats were mostly bluster to save face. They wouldn¡¯t dare act recklessly in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    As long as Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t leave Liang Kingdom, he would remain safe.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Lan Chang''an nced at her.


    ¡°Fine! If you¡¯re staying in Jin Yun Valley, I¡¯ll request that my master be rotated back from the frontlines soon,¡± Zhao Tan¡¯er said happily, her brows arching with delight.


    ¡°You have decentbat skills, but on the battlefield, open des are easier to dodge than hidden arrows.¡± Lan Chang''an reminded her.


    ...


    Not long after, Zhao Tan¡¯er departed for the frontlines of the war.


    Unfortunately, luck didn¡¯t seem to favor her timing.


    Around that period, the war with the demonic sects escted into an unavoidablerge-scale conflict.

 Chapter 277: The Third-Rank Alchemist

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    A month after Zhao Tan''er left, Lan Chang''an, who had just turned 178, received an unexpected piece of information:


    He had been put on a bounty list.


    Although the influence of this wanted notice was currently limited to the Chen Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    The cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom did not recognize the Chen Kingdom''s Xie Family bounty. After all, the target was an Elder of a sect within their own nation.


    As for the neutral cultivators outside of these two nations, most leaned toward sympathizing with Lan Chang''an.


    The Xie Family of the Chen Kingdom had failed to produce any solid evidence. To any discerning eye, it was clear that Lan Chang''an was most likely being framed.


    On one side stood a good old man renowned for his inspiring reputation, low-profile nature, and steadfast integrity.


    On the other stood a domineering faction that wielded unchecked authority within their own borders.¡°Lacking righteousness and with the people''s hearts turned against them¡ªwhat is the Xie Family of the Chen Kingdom trying to achieve by doing this?¡±


    In his cave abode on Yui Peak, Lan Chang''an furrowed his brows and fell into brief contemtion.


    ¡°Hm? The Xie Family¡¯s bounty actually poses a real threat to me.¡±


    The reward offered by the Xie Family of the Chen Kingdom was extraordinarily generous, including a mid-Core Formation-level breakthrough pill that was highly enticing to most Core Formation cultivators.


    Any cultivator, regardless of their affiliation, could im the bounty from the Chen Kingdom by capturing or killing Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Moreover, openly issuing such a wanted notice might rm Xia Wenyue, prompting her to negotiate with the Xie Family to intercede on my behalf.¡±


    Lan Chang''an quickly grasped the core of the issue.


    In the Chen Kingdom''s cultivation world, the Xie Family undoubtedly controlled public opinion.


    Cultivators within their borders might truly believe the usation that Lan Chang''an had colluded with the Unseen Gate or the Xuan Yin Sect to kill Xie Wuji.


    Cultivators with a grudge against demonic sects would likely ept the mission without hesitation.


    After a moment of deliberation, Lan Chang''an picked up a brush and wrote a letter.


    He sent it to Xia Wenyue in the Proud Moon Pce, signing it with his title as an Elder of Jin Yun Valley.


    The letter contained no reminiscence of the past, nor any sentimentality about bygone days.


    Lan Chang''an merely informed Xia Wenyue that he would not leave the territory of Jin Yun Valley and that he was absolutely safe.


    Truthfully, if Xia Wenyue were to intercede on his behalf, the bounty issued by the Xie Family¡ªand the false charges against him¡ªcould be resolved in an instant. ?


    However, Lan Chang''an, who had been inexplicably framed, felt deep resentment toward the Xie Family.


    Not only did he refuse to let them seed, but he also vowed that, if the opportunity arose, he would make sure to strike them when they were down.


    ...


    Two monthster, Zhao Siyao returned to Jin Yun Valley from the frontlines.


    On the day of her return, Lan Chang''an hosted a banquet to wee back his old friend of a century.


    Perhaps it was the years of hardship on the battlefield, but Zhao Siyao now appeared older than when theyst met¡ªshe looked to be in her early thirties.


    When she first arrived at Jin Yun Valley, her once ethereal white robes had been reced by dark-green leather armor imbued with magical properties, entuating her tall and elegant figure with an air of heroism.


    After returning to her cave abode, Zhao Siyao changed into a simple light-colored dress. Her hair was tied into a high bun, and she wore no makeup, presenting a in yetposed appearance.


    Although she no longer possessed the stunning beauty of her younger days, she remained dignified, graceful, and mature.


    From the young girl of a prestigious family to the otherworldly saintess of her sect, and now to a Fake Dan cultivator whose youthful glow had faded, Lan Chang''an had borne witness to the life changes and ups and downs of each of his friends.


    In the Elder''s cave abode, the two of them sat across from each other at a long desk. Their gazes were calm and clear, and the atmosphere between them was naturally rxed.


    Among his century-old friends, Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao shared a unique bond, one that carried a subtle yet profound mutual understanding.


    Their rtionship was more than mere friendship, but it was not romantic either. Such feelings had never begun to develop.


    This had been the tone of their hundred-year-long friendship¡ªcentered on the camaraderie of fellow Daoists.


    In truth, this bond was even more steadfast than most Daopanions.


    Lan Chang''an did not wish to disrupt this bnce, nor did he intend to turn it into a fleeting rtionship that might sully over a century of friendship.


    Even if he did not mind, Zhao Siyao, who was a disciplined and upright cultivator, would certainly not ept such a situation.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that battles with demonic cultivators are especially brutal. Did you encounter any danger, Fellow Daoist Zhao?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°Cultivation wars nevere without danger,¡± Zhao Siyao replied with a slightly somber tone.


    ¡°Even though I was stationed at a secondary line defensive city, I still faced several life-threatening battles. During one of the city defense fights, I almost lost my right arm. Fortunately, we repelled the enemy, and a healer managed to reattach it afterward.¡±


    ¡°It''s already a blessing that I was able toe back intact. Many of myrades who fought alongside me...¡±


    Zhao Siyao''s eyes reddened as she trailed off, unable to bring herself to describe the horrors.


    She remembered the scene of a Fake Dan male cultivator who had saved her. His head had been blown apart, and the stter of his blood and brain matter had stained her face.


    ¡°Your arm was severely injured? Let me take a look,¡± Lan Chang''an said with concern, his heart sinking at the thought of what she must have endured.


    Had the injury been any more severe, she might not have survived.


    Zhao Siyao rolled up her sleeve, revealing her ivory-colored arm. Near her shoulder, there was a thick scar, coiling like a centipede.


    ¡°Thankfully, the reattachment was timely. After two years of recuperation, it doesn¡¯t affect my ability to fight,¡± she exined.


    Lan Chang''an channeled his Evergreen mana into her arm, providing a full hour of healing and nourishment.


    ¡°If the battlefield healers had your skills, many more lives could have been saved,¡± Zhao Siyao said, her tone admiring as she flexed her arm, now feeling noticeably lighter.


    ¡°Hm, I wasn¡¯t implying that you should go to the battlefield¡­¡± she added with a soft smile, her voice gentle.


    ¡°No worries! Even if that was your intention, I still wouldn¡¯t go to the battlefield,¡± Lan Chang''an replied directly.


    Zhao Siyao couldn¡¯t help butugh, the somberness from her return dissipating in the face of his honesty.


    Afterward, Lan Chang''an asked Zhao Siyao about the ongoing war with the demonic sects.


    While Xing Peng usually reported such matters to him, Zhao Siyao''s descriptions were far more detailed, allowing Lan Chang''an to gain a clearer and more vivid understanding of the situation.


    ...


    The frontlines were mainly located in the Yan Kingdom and the Chen Kingdom.


    In the Yan Kingdom, a fourth-rank spiritual vein was being defended by the remnant forces of two Nascent Soul True Monarchs whose sects had been destroyed by the Six Demonic Sects. These True Monarchs carried an irreconcble hatred, having lost their sects, homes, friends, and mentors to the demonic sects.


    The various cultivation nations allied under the Righteous Dao Alliance were continuously sending reinforcements to the frontlines.


    From the Liang Kingdom, the Golden Sun Sect dispatched one Nascent Soul cultivator while keeping another to guard the homnd.


    The three Nascent Soul factions of the Feng Kingdom, located closer to the Yan Kingdom¡¯s frontlines, sent multiple Nascent Soul True Monarchs to support the fight.


    The frontlines had already seen one major sh of Nascent Soul-levelbat.


    From the Beast King Valley, a prominent demonic sect, one mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator and three early-stage Nascent Soul cultivators had been deployed, along with two affiliated Nascent Soul True Monarchs from subordinate sects.


    However, this did not represent the full strength of Beast King Valley.


    It was rumored that the sect still had at least one mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator and two early-stage Nascent Soul cultivators stationed in their home territory and other regions they had previously conquered.


    Among the Six Demonic Sects, Beast King Valley was one of the strongest.


    Their top-tierbat power extended beyond Nascent Soul cultivators. They alsomanded fourth-rank Demon Kings, bred through unique methods that sacrificed their potential and lifespan to grow to enormous sizes, asrge as small mountains.


    In directbat, these Demon Kings wereparable to Nascent Soul True Monarchs.


    The weaknesses of fourth-rank Demon Kingsy in their lower intelligence, slower mobility, andck of diversebat techniquespared to Nascent Soul cultivators.


    As a countermeasure, the Righteous Dao Alliance had to rely on groups of Core Formation cultivators working in formation to hold off these Demon Kings during direct assaults.


    In addition, Beast King Valleymanded regr fourth-rank demonic beasts, including fourth-rank flying beasts.


    In terms of top-tierbat power, the Righteous Dao Alliance was at a disadvantage.


    However, because the Alliance gathered forces from multiple cultivation nations, they had a numerical advantage in low- and mid-level cultivators, including Foundation Establishment, Fake Dan, and Core Formation levels.


    Still, the massive number of low- and mid-tier beast fodder raised by Beast King Valley, which charged fearlessly into battle, helped mitigate this advantage.


    As a result, the Righteous Dao Alliance had been forced to rely on defensive strategies, leveraging local advantages such as spiritual veins and fortified cities to resist the demonic sect¡¯s invasion.


    "With weaker top-tierbat power, we''re left with no choice but to passively defend¡­"


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly.


    If they dared to go on the offensive, their forces would be split and attacked individually, unable to protect all fronts at once.


    The defenders, on the other hand, could take advantage of the terrain and spiritual veins tied to fortified cities, paying a lower price to hold their positions.


    Fortunately, the numerical advantage of mid- and low-level cultivators allowed them to sustain a war of attrition. Reinforcements from the rear continued to flow to the frontlines.


    ...


    Two yearster.


    After recovering from her injuries, Zhao Siyao returned to the frontlines.


    It was said that Zhao Tan¡¯er had been injured on the battlefield¡ªnot seriously, but it had been a close call.


    Female Core Formation cultivators were rare, making them prime targets in battle.


    This was especially true for someone like Zhao Tan¡¯er, a young and beautiful Core Formation cultivator.


    As her master, Zhao Siyao was deeply concerned and decided to personally head to the frontlines to look after her and offer guidance.


    Lan Chang''an, knowing that he could not dissuade her, did not try to stop her.


    The bond between Zhao Siyao and Zhao Tan¡¯er was akin to that of mother and daughter. Their shared time in the cultivation world spanned over a century, a bond that far surpassed that of blood rtions.


    The only thing Lan Chang''an could do was provide her with a few high-quality third-rank talismans at a friendly price.


    A few days after Zhao Siyao left, a servant girl Little Qiu brought a package to Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Elder Lan, this is a Life Extension Pill delivered by the Administrative Hall.¡±


    Lan Chang''an nodded, taking the embroidered box into his secluded chamber.


    Inside the box, a jade bottle contained the exact pill he needed: a superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    Lan Chang''an had obtained this pill by issuing a sect mission as an Elder, offering sect contribution points and a quasi-third-rank talisman as payment.


    With the outbreak of the demonic sect invasion, the price of war supplies, especially high-quality talismans, had soared. In contrast, items like Life Extension Pills had actually be slightly cheaper.


    Taking advantage of this situation, Lan Chang''an had been quietly gathering longevity resources, both openly and covertly.


    In addition to today¡¯s pill, he had recently attended an auction in Zijing Immortal City under an alias and purchased another superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pill within the Jin Yun Valley''s sphere of influence.


    If it had been in the Liang Kingdom of the past, superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pills would not have been so easy toe by.


    Since the Golden Sun Sect had taken over, they had relocated spiritual veins and brought with them many cultivation forces with deep heritages. This had made the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom more prosperous than ever.


    The ongoing war had also served as a catalyst. Some factions and alchemists, seeking to improve their chances of survival, were now willing to sell rare items like Life Extension Pills.


    ¡°Eighteen years of lifespan.¡±


    This was the third superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pill that Lan Chang''an had consumed.


    Six months earlier, the second pill he had taken had extended his life by twenty-two years.


    The first, which he had obtained in the Jing Kingdom, had added twenty-eight years.


    Such effects were possible because superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pills could reset resistance to longevity-enhancing medicines.


    These two most recent pills had brought Lan Chang''an¡¯s total lifespan to 1,040 years.


    ¡°Using sect missions to obtain such pills can only be done sparingly. Going forward, I¡¯ll need to gather superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pills covertly using my alias.¡±


    ¡°Additionally, third-rank Life Extension Pills now exist in the cultivation world of the Liang Kingdom, but they¡¯re rarely sold and are mostly consumed internally.¡±


    As a Core Formation Elder, Lan Chang''an had the qualifications topete for third-rank Life Extension Pills.


    Ordinary third-rank Life Extension Pills could extend one¡¯s life by about thirty years. For Lan Chang''an, their effects would be doubled.


    However, third-rank Life Extension Pills were exponentially more valuable than first-rank or second-rank pills because they were targeted at high-level cultivators, particrly Fake Dan cultivators and above.


    Without strategic resources, obtaining a third-rank Life Extension Pill would be incredibly difficult.


    ¡°That set of Crystal Condensation Pill ingredients might just be useful,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    He had aplete set of materials for refining Crystal Condensation Pills.


    These materials had originally been obtained from the ¡°Night Fisherman,¡± who had colluded with Song Wenshu. Over the years, Lan Chang''an had gradually gathered the missing key ingredient.


    The final main ingredient had been obtained from the spatial storage ring of Master Lihuo.


    Now, Lan Chang''an nned tomission a third-rank alchemist to refine the Crystal Condensation Pills.


    Once refined, he could trade the pills for third-rank Life Extension Pills.


    The ongoing demonic invasion had significantly increased the value of strategic resources like Crystal Condensation Pills.


    Exchanging them for third-rank Life Extension Pills should be feasible.


    If a cultivation force possessing third-rank Life Extension Pills had lost Core Formation cultivators on the battlefield, they would likely be desperate for such a trade.


    ...


    Jin Yun Valley had an alchemist of mid-tier third-rank level.


    This person, known by the Daoist title "Morning Pill," was a Core Formation early-stage cultivator and served as both the sect¡¯s alchemy Elder and the head of the Herb and Wood Hall.


    In terms of status and position, Morning Pill was above Lan Chang''an, who was only an honorary Elder.


    Morning Pill Immortal was an alchemist nurtured entirely by Jin Yun Valley.


    It was said that his spiritual root qualifications back in the day were barely sufficient, only middle-grade. However, his talent in alchemy was extraordinary.


    To cultivate him into a third-rank master alchemist, Jin Yun Valley had invested vast resources, enabling him to barely condense a low-tier True Dan.


    After forming his core, Morning Pill struggled to progress further. Even after consuming a breakthrough pill, he was unable to advance to the mid-Core Formation stage.


    Lan Chang''an spected that Morning Pill had overly relied on external aids such as pills before forming his Core, which had stunted his potential.


    With no hope of advancing on the path to immortality, Morning Pill redirected his energy into alchemy.


    In the past few years, Lan Chang''an had met Morning Pill only briefly, with little interaction.


    Morning Pill spent most of his time in the alchemy chambers, while Lan Chang''an rarely ventured outside. It wasmon for them to go an entire year without crossing paths.


    One day, Lan Chang''an decided to visit Morning Pill¡¯s cave abode directly.


    Morning Pill turned out to be a somewhat disheveled figure¡ªa blue-robed Daoist with messy hair, dark circles under his eyes, and two wisps of a drooping mustache.


    ¡°If I refine Crystal Condensation Pills, I can usually produce two genuine pills. If my performance falters, one will be genuine quality, and the other inferior. If I perform exceptionally, it¡¯s possible to produce three pills,¡± Morning Pill said patiently, showing no disdain for Lan Chang''an despite his lower rank as an honorary Elder.


    ¡°How much would it cost tomission you to refine the Crystal Condensation Pills?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°If Fellow Daoist Lan is willing to donate one Crystal Condensation Pill to the sect for contribution points, I will not charge a single coin,¡± Morning Pill replied, his eyes sparkling as he stroked his mustache with a smile.


    Lan Chang''an was surprised. He hadn¡¯t expected the alchemy elder to be so loyal to Jin Yun Valley.


    With Morning Pill¡¯s dedication, the sect wouldn¡¯tck new Core Formation cultivators for the next two centuries.


    The sect had already replenished most of the Core Formation cultivators lost in earlier cultivation wars before the current demonic invasion had even begun.


    ¡°If Elder Morning Pill can refine three pills, I might consider donating one for contribution points. Otherwise, only a third-rank Life Extension Pill could convince me to trade,¡± Lan Chang''an replied tactfully, neither agreeing nor refusing outright.


    After half an hour of negotiation, the two reached an agreement:


    If three pills were sessfully refined, Lan Chang''an would donate one to the sect, and Morning Pill would not take any payment.


    If only two pills were refined, Lan Chang''an wouldpensate Morning Pill with third-rank talismans.


    If Morning Pill¡¯s performance faltered and fewer than two pills were produced, he would forgo payment entirely.


    Having settled on the terms, Lan Chang''an handed over the materials and waited for Morning Pill toplete the refinement.


    ...


    Half a monthter, Lan Chang''an left Morning Pill¡¯s abode with two genuine Crystal Condensation Pills in hand.


    Morning Pill, who had given his all during the process, looked visibly exhausted, with dark circles under his eyes. He was disappointed that he couldn¡¯t produce three pills but felt he had done his best.


    Lan Chang''an, for his part, couldn¡¯t help but reflect on the stark difference in character between Morning Pill and another alchemist he had once known¡ªAlchemist Hua.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Morning Pill had exhausted himself for the sect¡¯s benefit, going so far as to waive his fee to ensure an additional Crystal Condensation Pill for the sect.


    Furthermore, Morning Pill promised Lan Chang''an that the matter of refining the pills would not be told to anyone else.


    ...


    The very next day, the sect master of Jin Yun Valley paid Lan Chang''an a personal visit, hoping to spend arge sum of money to purchase a Crystal Condensation Pill from Lan Chang''an.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but inwardly curse. I just praised Morning Pill¡¯s character, but now it seems he¡¯s already turned around and leaked the news to the sect master!


    ¡°Of the two Crystal Condensation Pills I have, one is reserved to fulfill an old promise, and the other is to trade for a third-rank Life Extension Pill,¡± Lan Chang''an exined.


    ¡°If the sect master can get the third-rank Life Extension Pill, I would be happy to make the trade.¡±


    With this reasoning, Lan Chang''an tactfully refused the sect master¡¯s offer.


    Jin Yun Valley wasn¡¯t about to turn hostile over a single Crystal Condensation Pill. After all, even with such a pill, most cultivators could only reach the Fake Dan stage.


    The sect¡¯s Grand Elder and Zhang Tieshan were not currently present in Jin Yun Valley, and Lan Chang''an was confident that the remaining Core Formation cultivators, even if they joined forces, posed no real threat to him.


    Moreover, he wasn¡¯t without support¡ªhe possessed a third-rank puppet and a Half-Step Golden Dan demon beast.


    ¡°I will do my best to obtain a third-rank Life Extension Pill for you,¡± the sect master replied without pressing the matter further.


    ¡°I would also appreciate it if the sect master could keep my possession of Crystal Condensation Pills a secret,¡± Lan Chang''an said.


    ¡°Rest assured, this matter will remain known only to myself and Elder Morning Pill,¡± the sect master promised before taking his leave.


    ...


    A few dayster, several Fake Dan elders and hall masters came to visit Lan Chang''an, only to be told that he was in seclusion and not receiving guests.


    ¡°Damn it! Good thing this Immortal had the foresight to prepare for this,¡± Lan Chang''an thought to himself as he meditated in his secluded chamber, fully aware of the visitors¡¯ intentions.


    Just then, a rustling sound came from the ground as the Earth Burrowing Rat emerged, speaking in human tongue:


    ¡°Master, there¡¯s a message from Xiao Peng. He wishes to meet you.¡±


    ¡°Tell him to wait for me tonight,¡± Lan Chang''an instructed.


    Two years earlier, under the guise of the white-bearded elder from his past life, Lan Chang''an had promised Xing Peng a chance to achieve Core Formation, urging him to make the necessary preparations.


    After centuries of refining his Evergreen secret spell, Lan Chang''an had devised a method to transfer its power temporarily to others without significant loss.


    The best method was to infuse the secret spell¡¯s power into a wood-attribute spiritual pearl or a high-quality wood-attribute pill, which could then be consumed to retain about 50-60% of the effect.


    Lan Chang''an had even been experimenting with sealing the power of the Evergreen secret spell into talismans or treasure scrolls, though sess had so far eluded him.


    That night, Lan Chang''an slipped into the outer disciple courtyard where Xing Peng resided.


    ¡°Master Lan, this is the intelligence you requested regarding the me Departing Pce from the Seven Kingdoms Alliance,¡± Xing Peng said, respectfully handing over a jade slip.


    ¡°Per your instructions, I avoided alerting the higher-ups of the Unseen Gate. As a result, there may be some dy in the information.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Lan Chang''an said, taking the jade slip and scanning it with his spiritual sense.


    His interest in the me Departing Pce was to fulfill the dying wish of Master Lihuo to obtain the reincarnation of this Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s n was to remain in seclusion at the early Core Formation stage for a decade or so, allowing his power to deepen and the spiritual arrow he was nurturing to reach peak condition before making a move on the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    Only with sufficient strength could he aid the me Departing Pce.


    The report revealed the following:


    "The me Departing Pce had been relocated to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance for 17 years.


    "By agreeing to send cultivators to assist in the war against the demonic sects, they had managed to purchase a small mid-grade third-rank spiritual vein.


    "Years ago, a disciple named Wang Feng had obtained the core inheritance of the me Departing Pce and sessfully formed a Golden Dan.


    "The me Departing Pce hoped to acquire a quasi-fourth-rank spiritual vein in the future. This spiritual vein, with the potential to develop into a fourth-rank vein, was key to the pce¡¯s revival. However, to acquire it, they needed to contribute more in the war and oupete rivals."


    After gaining a general understanding of the current state of the me Departing Pce, Lan Chang''an shifted his focus to Xing Peng.


    The outer disciple, disguised as one of humble status, wore a white silk robe today.


    ¡°Have youpleted the preparations for Core Reformation?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.

 Chapter 278: Ten Years Later

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    "Years ago, through my cousin''s connections, I managed to exchange for a Core Dissolution Technique. I also prepared medicinal elixirs to aid in the process," Xing Peng said respectfully, suppressing the excitement in his heart.


    For most Nascent Soul-level sects, having a Core Dissolution Technique was standard.


    The Six Demonic Sects, being top-tier Nascent Soul factions in Great Qing, had numerous such methods in their collection. These methods were categorized into several tiers.


    In the Unseen Gate, mid- and high-level members could exchange for a Core Dissolution Technique if they contributed enough.


    Obtaining an ordinary Core Dissolution Technique was not too difficult. However, acquiring a superior technique would require one to be at the level of the Shadow Hall Chief or higher.


    The most difficult part, however, was obtaining the protection of a Nascent Soul True Monarch during the process.


    In theory, it was possible to attempt Core Formation without a True Monarch as a protector, but the risks were exceptionally high.


    "Unfortunately, my resources were limited, and I couldn¡¯t afford heavenly treasures that could improve the sess rate of forming a True Dan," Xing Pengmented with regret.Certain heavenly treasures, such as Yin Yang Water, could significantly increase the sess rate of Core Reformation and yield better results.


    Even without a True Monarch''s protection, these treasures could allow for a sessful transformation into a True Dan.


    "What is the sess rate of the technique you exchanged for?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "Without a True Monarch''s protection, only 20%," Xing Peng admitted cautiously, not daring to hide anything.


    Failure in Core Formation would result in two oues:


    First, perishing on the spot.


    Second, severe damage to one¡¯s foundation, making any subsequent attempts to condense a Core futile¡ªeven a Fake Dan would be out of reach.


    Twenty percent?


    Lan Chang''an pondered. The Core Dissolution Technique that Xing Peng had obtained was far inferior to the "Returning Dust Core Transformation Method" that he had acquired from Zhang Tieshan.


    The Six Demonic Sects ruled vast territories and had arge poption of cultivators.


    Although a 20% sess rate was low, there were always a few lucky individuals who seeded in forming a Core without a True Monarch''s protection.


    Moreover, this wasn¡¯t even the most advanced Core Dissolution Technique of the demonic sects.


    "Did the Shadow Hall Chief stop you from attempting Core Reformation?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "He didn¡¯t. With a 20% sess rate, I made ns early on and was willing to take the gamble," Xing Peng replied.


    "I''m already 148 years old. If I dy any longer, my body will deteriorate, my potential will drastically decrease, and my chances will be even slimmer."


    Hearing this, Lan Chang''an nodded slightly.


    Xing Peng, leveraging some of his connections and background in a top-tier Nascent Soul faction, managed to secure a 20% chance at Core Reformation.


    Ordinary Fake Dan cultivators wouldn¡¯t even have this opportunity.


    Aside from the Core Dissolution Technique, other factors such as opportunities, heavenly treasures, and luck could also increase the chances of sess.


    Xing Peng likely assumed that Lan Chang''an''s "Core Reformation opportunity" hade from the ancient ruin.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "This set of insights on Core Reformationes from Tianfeng Immortal. Study it thoroughly, and do not pass it on to others," Lan Chang''an said, handing Xing Peng a jade slip.


    Lan Chang''an had personally attempted Core Reformation three times and had umted vast experience. The insights recorded in this jade slip were actually his own.


    They were even moreprehensive than the ones from Zhang Tieshan.


    "Thank you for your generosity, Master Lan," Xing Peng said gratefully, immediately swearing a heart demon oath to seal his loyalty.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s greatest restraint on Xing Peng came from the Gu God Seal, which was difficult to undo for ordinary Nascent Soul cultivators.


    If Xing Peng was fortunate enough to advance to True Dan, the heart demon oath would still bind him significantly.


    Three dayster.


    Xing Peng had thoroughly digested the Core Reformation insights.


    Lan Chang''an returned to Xing Peng''s small courtyard in the outer sect, set up a formation, and prepared to observe the Core Reformation process.


    Seven dayster.


    The gray Core in Xing Peng''s body was sessfully dissolved, transforming back into pure liquid mana, though it had been a close call.


    At the moment when the Core dissolving bacsh was at its most severe, Lan Chang''an flicked his wrist and sent a green pill into Xing Peng''s abdomen.


    Without this intervention, Xing Peng would have suffered severe injuries, spitting blood and damaging his foundation, which would have affected the rest of the process.


    "Compared to dissolving a True Dan, dissolving a Fake Dan is indeed easier," Lan Chang''an remarked calmly.


    To Xing Peng, however, the experience was akin to walking through the gates of hell.


    Had the Core dissolving process spiraledpletely out of control, it would have resulted in a catastrophic explosion and instant death. Even Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have been able to save him.


    After all, Xing Peng neither possessed third-rank body refinement nor the protection of a True Monarch.


    "Thank you, Master Lan, for your life-saving grace!" Xing Peng said, his voice trembling with gratitude. Ovee with emotion, he knelt and kowtowed.


    Having sessfully dissolved the Fake Dan, Xing Peng''s injuries were rtively mild. With proper recuperation over the next year or so, along with consuming precious medicinal treasures, he would be ready to condense a Core again.


    "Where do you n to form your Core?" Lan Chang''an asked, showing no intention of using his Evergreen secret spell again to expedite Xing Peng''s recovery.


    The green pill used earlier was a third-rank healing pill, enhanced with the Evergreen secret spell, which cost Lan Chang''an three months of his lifespan.


    Thanks to his advancement to Golden Dan, the effectiveness of the Evergreen secret spell had also increased significantly.


    "The Unseen Gate has secret strongholds, including infiltrated immortal cities, which can be used for Core Formation," Xing Peng replied.


    "The matter of forming your Core is up to you to decide!"


    "The Elder behind me, ''Elder Xuan,'' is on the verge of condensing a Nascent Soul, and the seal in your mind is unbreakable by anyone nearby," Lan Chang''an said before leaving the outer sect.


    ...


    Returning to the cave abode on Yui Peak.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment, analyzing the sess rate of assisting others in dissolving their Cores.


    If it was a Fake Dan being dissolved, and Xing Peng''s case was taken as a baseline, then based on the "dosage" he had just used, the estimated sess rate would be around 50-60%.


    Increasing the dosage could improve the sess rate, but it couldn''t guarantee zero risk.


    Ultimately, dissolving the Corergely depended on the individual, as the spiritual pressure field during the process was highly unpredictable. Lan Chang''an, not being a Nascent Soul True Monarch, couldn¡¯tpletely suppress these changes to ensure survival without risk.


    Moreover, the idea of investing his lifespan multiple times into someone else¡¯s attempt was something Lan Chang''an was unwilling to consider.


    He then shifted his theoretical simtion to Zhao Siyao, considering her as a potential candidate for Core Reformation.


    After a long time, he sighed and shook his head.


    Zhao Siyao was significantly older than Xing Peng, now nearing 180 years of age.


    In terms of cultivation technique and spiritual sense, Xing Peng far surpassed Zhao Siyao.


    If Lan Chang''an were to invest even more of his lifespan, he might be able to help her through the Core dissolving stage.


    However, when it came time for her to condense her Core again, the chances of even forming a Fake Dan would be slim.


    If the attempt to condense the Core failed, given her age, the likelihood of her dying on the spot would be very high.


    To summarize, Lan Chang''an could achieve a rtively high sess rate for helping Fake Dan cultivators dissolve their Cores, akin to a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    However, he couldn¡¯t influence the sess rate of subsequent Core Formation or the quality of the resulting Core.


    This was precisely why Nascent Soul True Monarchs rarely offered their protection during Core Reformation, except for close bloodline descendants or personal disciples.


    After dissolving the Core, significant investments in rare medicinal treasures were required to repair the damaged foundation. If the Dao Foundation suffered severe harm, even fourth-rank heavenly treasures might be necessary.


    Moreover, condensing the Core again would require apletely new set of resources for Core Formation, with no guarantee of sess.


    Within the sect, Core Formation resources were limited and highlypetitive.


    Even Nascent Soul True Monarchs could only provide assistance sparingly, as excessive support would provoke dissatisfaction among the sect''s members.


    After assisting Xing Peng in dissolving his Core,


    Lan Chang''an returned to his daily routine in the Jin Yun Valley.


    He spent his time cultivating, drawing talismans, refining magical treasures, and nurturing his stock of treasure talismans.


    In secret, he continued searching for Life Extension Pills and umting materials for creating third-rank puppets.


    As long as he remained within the Jin Yun Valley''s sphere of influence, the bounty issued by the Xie Family of Chen Kingdom was effectively meaningless.


    Unless the Six Demonic Sectsunched a full-scale invasion and overran the cultivation world of Liang Kingdom, there was no other reason that could force Lan Chang''an out of his sanctuary in Jin Yun Valley.


    ...


    Ten years flew by in the blink of an eye.


    To the outside world, Lan Chang''an had not taken a single step outside the gates of Jin Yun Valley during this decade.


    The legend of "Turtle Immortal" spread across the surrounding cultivation nations, bing a topic of lighthearted conversation among low-level cultivators during their idle moments.


    On this day.


    At 190 years of age, Lan Chang''anpleted his daily cultivation routine and slowly retracted his magical power.


    Over the decade, his Evergreen mana had grown significantly stronger.


    By now, it had been more than a decade since he had advanced to the Core Formation stage.


    However, he was still far from reaching the peak of the early Core Formation stage.


    Currently, he had only achieved about a quarter of the progress required for this stage.


    After his daily cultivation, Lan Chang''an circted his core energy to nurture the seventy to eighty treasure talismans in front of him.


    As a sect Elder, Lan Chang''an no longer had to personally gather materials. Instead, he could issue missions for others toplete on his behalf.


    Over the past decade, he had acquired two additional pieces of third-rank spiritual wood, which were used for crafting treasure talismans.


    With sufficient rewards, anyone in Jin Yun Valley¡ªfrom Qi-Refining disciples to Core Formation Elders, and even the sect leader¡ªmight be willing to run errands for him.


    Of course, to avoid attracting too much attention, Lan Chang''an kept these activities within a reasonable scope.


    asionally, he would venture out secretly under a different identity to collect vital resources.


    As long as the Grand Elder was not present in Jin Yun Valley, neither the other Elders nor the sect leader would notice any discrepancies.


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an had quietly saved up materials and sessfully crafted another third-rank puppet.


    It was only because Lan Chang''an was carrying a huge amount of spirit stones that he could afford to squander so much.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s search for Life Extension Pills never ceased.


    Currently, his lifespan had reached 1126 years.


    Seven years ago, the Grand Elder had traded a third-rank Life Extension Pill and another third-rank material with Lan Chang''an in exchange for the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    A third-rank Life Extension Pill typically extended the lifespan of a normal cultivator by around 30 years.


    For Lan Chang''an, however, the pill extended his life by a full 60 years!


    Third-rank Life Extension Pills were highly sought after by high-level cultivators, which caused their value to skyrocket.


    While the Crystal Condensation Pill was considered a strategic resource, it held little practical use for Core Formation cultivators.


    Even if used during Core Formation, the chances of sess were low, and the resulting Core was likely to be a Fake Dan.


    Third-rank Life Extension Pills, on the other hand, werepletely different.


    If ate-stage Core Formation master could live an extra 30 years, it would have an impact on the surroundingndscape of cultivation factions.


    If not for the fact that the effects of the same type of Life Extension Pill couldn¡¯t be stacked, the value of third-rank Life Extension Pills would far exceed that of Crystal Condensation Pills.


    After all, life was the root of cultivation.


    In addition to the third-rank pill,


    Lan Chang''an had secretly obtained two superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pills, which extended his life by 15 years and 11 years, respectively.


    However, moving forward, the effects of second-rank Life Extension Pills would gradually diminish.


    To avoid exposing his identity, Lan Chang''an nned to reduce the frequency of his pill collection in the future.


    ¡­


    Exiting seclusion, the secret chamber door opened.


    ¡°Master, this is thetest war report from the frontlines,¡± the dirt-yellow Earth Burrowing Rat said as it scurried over, holding a jade slip in its mouth.


    Lan Chang''an took the jade slip, and scanned it with his spiritual sense, and his expression darkened.


    On the battlefield, several more territories with third-rank spirit veins had fallen.


    In the past decade,


    Half of the territories of Yan Kingdom and Chen Kingdom had been conquered on the frontlines.


    The good news was that no Nascent Soul True Monarchs had fallen so far.


    However, the number of True Monarchs sustaining serious injuries wasn¡¯t insignificant.


    The True Monarch of Chen Kingdom''s Heavenly Net Sect had narrowly escaped death by ejecting the Nascent Soul out of their body.


    When Lan Chang''an learned of this, he had felt a surge of satisfaction.


    Unfortunately, they didn¡¯t die.


    If they had, the Xie Family of Chen Kingdom would have been dealt a devastating blow, presenting an excellent opportunity to kick them while they were down.


    For Nascent Soul cultivators, killing one outright was incredibly difficult due to their spirit-body''s rapid escape speed.


    Even if their physical body was destroyed, their Nascent Soul could inhabit a suitable new body, restoring their strength quickly without needing to rebuild their cultivation from Foundation Establishment or Core Formation.


    ¡°It seems I must make a trip to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance. If Chen Kingdom falls, Jing Kingdom will be next,¡± Lan Chang''an muttered, his heart tightening as he made a decision.


    The shortest route to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance was through Jing Kingdom.


    Another option would be to take a longer detour through Chen Kingdom, but with half of it already in enemy hands, this route was no longer feasible.


    Alternatively, he could go north through the ck Fog Mountain Range, but that path was even longer.


    Moreover, traveling quickly through the ck Fog Mountain Range as a Core Formation cultivator would inevitably attract the attention of powerful demons or flocks of flying beasts.


    The war against the demonic sects looked increasingly grim. Fortunately, Jin Yun Valley in Liang Kingdom was located deep in the rear and wasn¡¯t under immediate threat.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that the Righteous Dao Alliance would hold the line for at least 30 years.


    The true battlefield would likely center on the Feng Kingdom, a vast territory with numerous cultivation factions.


    As long as the Feng Kingdom could withstand the pressure, the mes of war wouldn¡¯t spread to the Liang Kingdom.


    In the past, during the Golden Sun Sect''s Northern Migration War, the weaker me Departing Pce had held out for nearly 20 years by leveraging its defensive advantage on home soil.


    If not for Chu Tianfeng pressuring Master Lihuo to prematurely duel to the death, the conflict might have dragged on for several more years.


    This was because defenders had the advantage of spirit vein formations.


    Especially for Nascent Soul-level sects, activating a fourth-rank grand formation made it nearly impossible for invaders to break through without overwhelming force or advanced methods to breach such defenses.


    ¡°Contact Little Peng. I want to see him tonight,¡± Lan Chang''an ordered.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat vanished in a sh of dull yellow light.


    ...


    Jin Yun Valley ¨C Inner Sect


    In a cave abode on a small peak.


    "Greetings, Master Lan," said Xing Peng, bowing deeply. He appeared as an unremarkable disciple d in green robes.


    Over the years, Xing Peng had sessfully established himself as an inner disciple of Jin Yun Valley.


    In truth, he was now a cultivator at the early True Dan stage.


    Xing Peng''s path to True Dan was a mix of ability and luck.


    Ten years ago, after his lucky sess in dissolving his Core, his Dao Foundation didn''t suffer damage. His cousin, the Shadow Hall Chief, upon learning this, gifted him a spirit item perfectly suited for Core Formation.


    The Shadow Hall Chief was already ate Core Formation expert, with strength likely surpassing Lan Chang''an''s former life.


    Leveraging his wealth and connections in the Unseen Gate, Xing Peng obtained a genuine Crystal Condensation Pill.


    When he first condensed his Core years ago, he had been just an ordinary cultivator with no such resources, relying on an inferior Crystal Condensation Pill.


    After sessfully dissolving his Core, his mana had be more refined, increasing the quality of his next condensation attempt.


    With all these advantages, even though Xing Peng was no longer in his prime and his potential had decreased, he still managed to form a low-tier True Dan.


    Learning about the factors that led Xing Peng to form a True Dan, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Having connections really made all the difference.


    Such sessful Core Reformations were out of reach for most ordinary cultivators.


    ording to Xing Peng, the leading faction among the Six Sacred Sects, the Nether Spring Sect, possessed a legendary "Holy Spring" that could directly improve the quality of one''s Core.


    Even True Dans that had been stagnant for years could be slightly enhanced. However, it couldn¡¯t elevate a True Dan to a Golden Dan.


    Formation of a Golden Dan requires the descent of Dao Rhythms unique to the Golden Dan.


    That said, even Nascent Soul True Monarchs of the Six Sacred Sects found it difficult to obtain such a supreme treasure.


    ¡°Little Peng, Elder Xuan is preparing to return to Great Qing¡¯s Central Region. To get there, he must pass through the Seven Kingdoms Alliance. The demonic sects forces in the surrounding regions have made travel perilous. A safer route is urgently needed,¡± Lan Chang''an said calmly, his tone even and unhurried.


    Return to Great Qing¡¯s Central Region?


    Xing Peng was startled. Could it be that the Core Formation pinnacle expert backing Lan Chang''an was a cultivator from the Ten Sects of the Xuan Gate?


    ¡°From Liang Kingdom to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance, I can acquire a safe route. Beyond that, however, I won¡¯t be able to help¡­¡± Xing Peng replied with an increasingly respectful demeanor.


    ¡°Good. I¡¯ll give you half a month,¡± Lan Chang''an said.


    Lan Chang''an felt even more at ease with Xing Peng after his advancement to the True Dan stage.


    First, the heart demon oath binding Xing Peng had be even more effective.


    Second, the Gu God Seal that Lan Chang''an had ced on him had been further refined over the past decade.


    During these years, while Lan Chang''an himself never stepped outside Jin Yun Valley, many other cultivators hade to visit him.


    For example, the Beast Taming Zhou Family''s Grand Elder, Zhou Qingxuan, had visited several times to exchange insights on beast taming.


    Using the opportunity, Lan Chang''an studied the Gu insect restriction in her sea of consciousness, further perfecting the Gu God Seal.


    Additionally, Fairy Shi had visited twice.


    Each time, they spent at least three days and nights discussing formations and restriction techniques.


    ...


    Returning to Yui Peak¡¯s cave abode.


    Within the quiet confines of his cave abode, Lan Chang''an used his Evergreen true fire to refine and nurture the three Barbed Arrows.


    For nearly a decade and a half, these three Barbed Arrows had never been used. They were constantly suspended near his Golden Dan, absorbing its mana and undergoing slow, continuous refinement.


    Lan Chang''an could faintly sense that the quality of the arrows was approaching that of superior-grade magical treasures.


    This wasn¡¯t because his Golden Dan True Fire was extraordinarily effective for refinement.


    The keyy in the materials used in the original crafting of the Barbed Arrows. Their primary material had been fourth-rank Soul-Nurturing Wood.


    However, due to Zhang Tieshan¡¯s inadequate crafting skills and theck of supplementary fourth-rank materials, the arrows¡¯ grade had been somewhat reduced during their creation.


    ¡°After over a decade of nurturing with Golden Dan true fire, the power of a fully-charged strike from these Barbed Arrows could rival that of ate-stage Core Formation cultivator,¡± Lan Chang''an muttered, his eyes reflecting the cold light emanating from the arrows.


    The three Barbed Arrows trembled faintly, emitting an invisible, piercing chill that caused a ripple of unease to stir within Lan Chang''an¡¯s own spirit.


    The attack method of the Barbed Arrows was sinister and deadly.


    As long as a strikended, it would be nearly impossible for a Core Formation cultivator in the early or middle stages to escape unscathed.


    However, this ¡°charged state¡± was a one-time ability. Once unleashed, the arrows would revert to their normal power level, requiring extensive nurturing again to regain their potency.


    ...


    Two weekster.


    Xing Peng delivered a route map engraved on a jade slip.


    ¡°ording to this route, it would take a True Dan cultivator traveling at full speed about a month and a half to make a round trip to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance,¡± Lan Chang''an calcted.


    After a moment of deliberation, he decided to give himself three months for the journey.


    The situation on the other end wasn¡¯t reassuring. The Seven Kingdoms Alliance was also fending off invasions from the demonic sect forces.


    The longer Lan Chang''an stayed away from Jin Yun Valley, the higher the risk he faced.


    Leaving a decoy behind in his cave abode to emit a false aura would onlyst so long before someone might discover the truth.


    Three months wasn¡¯t much time. If something came up on the road, it simply wouldn''t be enough.


    ...


    To address this risk, Lan Chang''an made preparations.


    "Merge!"


    Closing his eyes, he activated the power of the Nine Seal Stele, summoning the shadow of his second life to descend and merge with his own soul.


    These days, illuminating his second life only required a single year of time, so there was no need to finesse it.


    The fusion of his two souls made his spiritual sense unprecedentedly powerful, surpassing the realm of ordinary Core Formation cultivators.


    With heightened spiritual perception, Lan Chang''an could foresee and avoid potential dangers on his journey well in advance.


    Combined with the detailed route map provided by Xing Peng, his chances of sess were significantly improved.


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an crafted an overabundance of talismans and handed them to Jin Yun Valley as part of his regr contributions.


    He then announced to the public that he was entering closed-door cultivation, leaving behind a third-rank Illusory Truth Talisman infused with his aura to simte his presence in the cave abode.


    This talisman was specially crafted to release his exact mana signature, creating the illusion that he was deep in seclusion.


    With this cover in ce, Lan Chang''an left Jin Yun Valley unnoticed, embarking on his journey to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    Within the ruins of a mortal castle destroyed by war, a stone pce had been hastily constructed from the rubble.


    Whoosh!


    Suddenly, a streak of purple light shot across the sky, piercing through the clouds and descending like aet from the Nine Fiery Heavens.


    ¡°Demonic thief! I¡¯ve finally found your hiding ce!¡±


    The light dissipated, revealing a sharp-featured and imposing man with a heroic aura. He was dressed in a robe of violet silk adorned with jade patterns, with a white jade pendant hanging from his waist.


    In his hand, he brandished a Scarlet Feather Fan, a magical treasure that summoned fiery clouds stretching across threeyers of the heavens, nketing the air above the ruined stone pce.


    ¡°Junior Brother Wang, long time no see.¡±


    From within the stone pce, a slightly familiar male voice rang out.


    Wang Feng scanned the pce with his spiritual sense, finding no protective formations within. Inside, there was only a young man in blue robes with sword-like brows and starry eyes.


    Next to the blue-robed youth was a small, open chest containing a pile of women¡¯s embroidered shoes and silk stockings.


    ¡°Junior Brother Nie?¡±


    Wang Feng was stunned, his expression turning to disbelief.


    His spiritual sense repeatedly probed the scene, confirming what he saw.


    Overjoyed, he descended into the stone pce.


    ¡°Junior Brother Nie, you stole my wife¡¯s shoes and stockings just to lure me out for a meeting? Why not just return to the me Departing Pce openly and face me directly?¡±


    Wang Feng nced at the chest, his face turning awkward.


    Two days ago, his daopanion¡¯s shoes and stockings had repeatedly gone missing without any clues.


    Residual traces of demonic energy at the scene suggested some sort of low-level demon beast was the culprit.


    In an attempt to catch the thief, Wang Feng had secretly marked his wife¡¯s shoes and tracked the trail all the way here.


    ¡°Junior Brother Wang, I have found my own opportunities outside and have the hope of achieving the Dao. I have no intention of returning to me Departing Pce to suffer alongside you, fending off the demonic sects¡¯s invasion,¡± said the blue-robed youth tly.


    ¡°Junior Brother Nie, why do you suddenly call me Junior Brother? You¡¯ve always called me Senior Brother,¡± Wang Feng asked cautiously, spiritual sense probing once again to ensure the man was indeed Nie Yuan.


    ¡°I have attained Golden Dan and I am a few years older than you. Naturally, the way I address you must change,¡± Nie Yuan replied matter-of-factly.


    As he spoke, he exuded Golden Dan-level mana fluctuations from his body.


    ¡°Nie.. Senior Brother, you¡¯ve really formed a Golden Dan? Ten years ago, when we heard rumors of your sess, we thought it was an impostor,¡± Wang Feng eximed.


    After his initial surprise, his feelings grewplicated.


    Wang Feng was a genius with earth spiritual roots, supported by a Core Formation Elder grandfather. He had painstakingly cultivated with the me Departing Pce¡¯s greatest resources and endured countless hardships before finally forming his Golden Dan.


    Nie Yuan, an ordinary inner disciple who hadn¡¯t even been worth his attention, had also formed an Immortal Golden Dan and now stood on equal footing with him.


    Nie Yuan had always beenpetitive, and now, after forming his Golden Dan and also being older, he clearly had no intention of returning to me Departing Pce.


    Seeing Wang Feng¡¯s reaction, Lan Chang''an secretly rxed.


    When he assumed the identity of Nie Yuan, he hadn¡¯t inherited aplete set of memories, only knowing that the two had little interaction.


    However, he had learned that Nie Yuan had once treated Wang Feng¡¯s injuries and knew Nie Yuan was older by a few years.


    Such minor age differences were details that only fellow disciples within the same sect would be privy to.


    ¡°This time, I¡¯vee to offer my assistance to me Departing Pce, to repay the karma of their past nurturing,¡± Lan Chang''an said calmly.


    Hearing this, Wang Feng¡¯s expression shifted as a thought urred to him. He hesitantly asked, ¡°A few days ago, when Immortal Luo Yun of Tianxing Pavilion mysteriously died and disappeared¡­ was that your doing, Senior Brother Nie?¡±


    Tianxing Pavilion, a former Nascent Soul-level faction of the Seven Kingdoms Alliance, had been overrun by the demonic sects, resulting in the death of even their Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Their plight was simr to that of me Departing Pce, and their strength wasparable.


    me Departing Pce had been vying for a quasi-fourth-rank spiritual vein and had paid a significant price in the process.


    When Tianxing Pavilion had interfered in thepetition, rtions between the two sides turned hostile, with conflicts escting rapidly.


    ¡°That¡¯s correct. Luo Yun died at my hands,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a faint, confident smirk.


    ¡°You¡­ killed him by yourself?¡±


    Wang Feng¡¯s expression froze, filled with disbelief.


    Luo Yun was an experienced early-stage True Dan cultivator who had been at the Core Formation stage for over a hundred years.


    Such a seasoned Core Formation cultivator was not easy to kill.


    Wang Feng, as a Golden Dan cultivator, could easily defeat him in a fight, but outright killing him would be far more difficult.


    Even more so, killing him without leaving any trace.


    ¡°Killing him was simple,¡± Lan Chang''an said indifferently, observing the disbelief on Wang Feng¡¯s face.


    Privately, Lan Chang''an wondered: Was this Luo Yun actually that strong?


    He honestly hadn¡¯t thought so.


    At the time, Lan Chang''an had been lurking near Tianxing Pavilion¡¯s mountain gates, scouting the area.


    By sheer luck, he encountered a lone Core Formation cultivator wandering nearby.


    Following silently, Lan Chang''an had ambushed him from behind.


    The Barbed Arrow shot forth instantly, pinning Luo Yun¡¯s soul in a single strike.


    The True Dan cultivator hadn¡¯t even managed to summon his magical treasure before dying.


    In fact, by the time the Barbed Arrow had pierced his body, Luo Yun¡¯s mind had already been severely damaged.


    ¡°... Simple?¡±


    Wang Feng¡¯s expression twitched as a sour feeling brewed in his chest.


    Though he felt like Nie Yuan was bragging, his instincts told him that Senior Brother Nie wasn¡¯t lying¡ªand had no reason to.


    How could the gap in strength between two Golden Dan cultivators be so vast?


    Wang Feng couldn¡¯t help but wonder if he had somehow formed a ¡°fake¡± Golden Dan.

 Chapter 279: Fulfilling Old Wishes

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    ¡°Senior Brother Nie¡­ you called me out here. What other instructions do you have?¡±


    Wang Feng hesitated, swallowing back the words he had prepared to persuade Nie Yuan to return to me Departing Pce.


    After attaining Golden Dan, Wang Feng had be the pce¡¯s sole Nascent Soul seed. All of the sect¡¯s treasured resources for nurturing a Nascent Soul cultivator were dedicated solely to him¡ªyet it was still barely enough.


    If Nie Yuan truly returned to me Departing Pce, things would be¡­ awkward.


    ¡°Everything I have achieved today is thanks to me Departing Pce¡¯s training and the legacy left behind by our elders. Though I¡¯ve chosen to part ways, I can¡¯t bear to see me Departing Pce fall into decline.¡±


    Hearing this, Wang Feng¡¯s heart was stirred.


    Senior Brother Nie had unexpectedly achieved an Immortal Golden Dan, and now he mentioned the ¡°legacy left behind by the elders.¡± Could it be rted to the Supreme Elder?


    Thirty years ago, the Supreme Elder of me Departing Pce had fallen in battle. Investigations conducted afterward yielded no clues, and the sect eventually had no choice but to abandon the matter.The primary suspect remained the Xuan Yin Demonic Sect, with secondary suspicion falling on Chu Tianfeng and the Unseen Gate.


    ¡°I hope me Departing Pce can establish a firm foothold in the Seven Kingdoms Alliance, with not only Core Formation cultivators but also a quasi-fourth-rank spiritual vein to rebuild its strength,¡± Nie Yuan¡¯s voice rang out with conviction, his sharp gaze and powerful tone leaving an impression on Wang Feng.


    Wang Feng felt a deep sense of respect, tinged with guilt.


    Why was Senior Brother Nie unwilling to return to me Departing Pce?


    It was likely because he didn¡¯t want topete with him for the resources necessary to advance to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Denied the support of the sect, Nie Yuan had been forced to seek another path on his own.


    And yet, Senior Brother Nie bore no resentment. He had even gone so far as to secretly eliminate enemies of me Departing Pce. His actions revealed a cold exterior but a kind heart, noble in both intent and character.


    In truth, Lan Chang''an had also considered whether he should infiltrate me Departing Pce as Nie Yuan to secure greater benefits while fulfilling the wishes of Master Lihuo.


    But this n was too idealistic.


    The Nie Yuan identity, after all, was a fabrication created using the Hundred Illusions Mask. He had never cultivated me Departing Pce¡¯s techniques.


    If it ever came to a confrontation, his cover would be easily blown.


    Even if he refrained from fighting, merely associating with me Departing Pce¡¯s Golden Dan cultivator or senior Core Formation members would expose discrepancies.


    More importantly, if Nie Yuan joined me Departing Pce, he would naturallye into conflict with the Wang faction, which currently held power in the sect.


    Joining under Nie Yuan¡¯s name would do more harm than good. Forget about revitalizing the sect¡ªit would already be a victory if no internal divisions arose.


    ¡°What ns do you have, Senior Brother Nie?¡± Wang Feng asked.


    He understood that killing a single early-stage Core Formation cultivator wouldn¡¯t significantly harm Tianxing Pavilion.


    Though they had fallen from grace, Tianxing Pavilion was still a former Nascent Soul-level sect, and their strength far surpassed a sect like Jin Yun Valley.


    ¡°I will offer three key contributions to repay me Departing Pce for their kindness and the legacy left by the elders. This will sever all karma between us,¡± Lan Chang''an said after a moment¡¯s pause.


    ¡°First, I will remain in the Seven Kingdoms Alliance for one month. During this time, me Departing Pce should find a way to provoke a conflict with Tianxing Pavilion. I will take advantage of the chaos to act in the shadows and attempt to eliminate one or two more Core Formation cultivators.¡±


    ¡°Second, I possess a third-rank puppet, which I am willing to sell to me Departing Pce at a fair price to bolster the sect¡¯s foundation.¡±


    A third-rank puppet?


    Hearing the first two contributions, Wang Feng¡¯s eyes lit up.


    If Tianxing Pavilion were to lose two or three True Dan cultivators, the bnce of power between the two sects would bepletely shattered, and acquiring a third-rank puppet would further tip the scales.


    With these two contributions, Tianxing Pavilion would no longer be able topete with me Departing Pce for the quasi-fourth-rank spiritual vein.


    ¡°What is your third contribution, Senior Brother Nie?¡±


    ¡°That will have to wait until the first two tasks arepleted,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile, deliberately keeping it a mystery.


    Wang Feng nodded eagerly. ¡°I would be more than willing to purchase the third-rank puppet. As for the first task, I will return to discuss it with my grandfather. I¡¯m certain he will cooperate.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Lan Chang''an said simply.


    Without further dy, he brought out a third-rank python puppet, its massive coiled body stretching five to six zhang and instantly upying most of the stone pce''s space.


    Testing the puppet.


    The python puppetshed its tail, striking Wang Feng¡¯s protective barrier.


    The light of the barrier dimmed by more than half in an instant, leaving Wang Feng thoroughly shaken.


    ¡°It truly is a third-rank puppet!¡± Wang Feng eximed, ecstatic.


    ¡°Forty thousand spirit stones,¡± Lan Chang''an stated tly.


    For reference, a low-grade magical treasure typically sold for around 20,000 spirit stones and was suitable for Fake Dan or early True Dan cultivators.


    Puppets of the same level, however, were significantly more expensive, often selling for 40,000-50,000 spirit stones.


    High-level puppets required costly core crystals to operate during battle. Additionally, after a fight, repairs were necessary, incurring further expenses.


    In essence, using a puppet inbat was akin to burning money.


    ¡°No problem,¡± Wang Feng agreed without hesitation.


    He didn¡¯t have enough spirit stones on hand¡ªonly about 20,000¡ªbut to avoid potentialplications, he offered a few third-rank materials to cover the remaining cost.


    With the deal concluded, Lan Chang''an even made a small profit.


    ¡°Senior Brother Nie, do you know anything about the Supreme Elder¡¯s whereabouts?¡± Wang Feng couldn¡¯t resist asking after the transaction was finalized.


    Back then, when the Supreme Elder had used his Nascent Soul to possess Wang Feng, Wang Feng¡¯s consciousness had been sealed, leaving a nk memory of that period.


    ¡°Hmm, I once encountered a fragment of the Supreme Elder¡¯s residual soul near the border between two nations. I managed to retrieve a few scattered memories and some of his personal belongings,¡± Lan Chang''an said, his tone measured and thoughtful.


    ¡°As for how he passed, the fragment of his soul was too weak and soon dissipated, leaving no clues¡­¡±


    This exnation aligned with the backstory Lan Chang''an had already crafted for Nie Yuan¡¯s attainment of Golden Dan.


    ¡°The border between the two nations¡­¡±


    Wang Feng¡¯s eyes narrowed as a cold glint shed within them.


    The Xuan Yin Demonic Sect had been highly active along the border in those days, and their current stronghold was also located near Jing Kingdom¡¯s frontier.


    Lan Chang''an chose not to linger on the topic of the Supreme Elder.


    Before leaving, he issued a stern warning:


    ¡°Let me make this clear. I will not meet with any other me Departing Pce members, including Elder Wang.


    If I discover that anyone from me Departing Pce is trying to track me down, our cooperation will end immediately. The third contribution will also be forfeited.¡±


    ¡°Senior Brother Nie, you¡¯ve done so much for me Departing Pce. Rest assured, I, Wang Feng, will remember your kindness and will never be ungrateful,¡± Wang Feng replied sincerely, understanding Nie Yuan¡¯s concerns.


    With Nie Yuan¡¯s superior aptitude and theck of sect support, his Immortal Golden Dan clearly stemmed from significant opportunities, likely tied to the Supreme Elder.


    Nie Yuan¡¯s precautions were perfectly reasonable, especially to guard against me Departing Pce exploiting him for his secrets.


    Half a monthter.


    Near a water marsh, several hundred li from a third-rank immortal city in the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    Above the clouds, the faint and hazy Barbed Arrow suddenly materialized out of thin air.


    The instant it appeared, a sharp, ear-piercing whistle echoed across the sky, akin to the sound of metal scraping against metal. The sound drilled into the ears and pierced straight into the target¡¯s sea of consciousness.


    Shing¡ª


    The shimmering, silver-blue arrow shot forth in a sh, instantly piercing toward a refined man with a long beard and schrly demeanor.


    ¡°Bold of you to attack me!¡±


    The long-bearded man roared in fury, his reddened eyes oozing blood as he red at the iing assault.


    Ding!


    A jade pendant leapt from his waist, forming a protectiveyer of milky white light to shield him from the strange and sinister attack.


    However, the third-rank treasurested less than a moment.


    Crack!


    The jade pendant shattered, unable to withstand the full power of the Barbed Arrow.


    Still brimming with residual power, the arrow screamed onward, letting out a terrifying whistle as it hurtled straight for the man¡¯s head.


    ¡°What a vicious treasure!¡±


    The long-bearded man¡¯s expression shifted drastically. He erupted with the mana of a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, forming a protective shield of energy in the shape of a glowing halo.


    But the Barbed Arrow possessed an astonishing level of piercing power. In an instant, it drilled through the thick protective shield, leaving a small hole in its wake.


    The man hurriedly summoned a bronze mirror, which radiated a deep green light. With a sharp ng, the mirror deflected the arrow, sending it flying backward.


    Its power now halved, the arrow ceased its assault, transforming into a faint shadow before streaking back ten li to the blue-robed youth who hadunched it.


    The sheer range of the attack left the long-bearded man utterly horrified.


    His attacker was a full ten li away.


    Ordinary Core Formation cultivators¡ªwhether at the early or mid-stage¡ªcould typically attack within a range of two to three li at most.


    Beyond that, their magical treasure¡¯s power would weaken drastically.


    For heavier magical treasures, the range would shrink even further.


    Only sword cultivators, who specialized in long-rangebat, could effectively deal lethal damage at longer distances.


    ¡°Resilient willpower¡ªand possessing a third-rank treasure capable of defending against mental attacks,¡± Lan Chang''an murmured to himself, slightly surprised.


    Though his initial strike had failed to kill the mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, it had inflicted severe damage to the man¡¯s soul, reducing hisbat strength by several levels.


    ...


    ¡°This isn¡¯t good! There¡¯s more¡ª¡±


    The long-bearded man, still reeling from the spiritual bacsh, suddenly sensed a surge of monstrous demonic energy and magical fluctuations.


    Whoosh!


    A massive sandstorm erupted, forming a whirling vortex of yellow sand that covered an area spanning several hundred zhang.


    The man¡¯s flying light faltered, his speed dropping to less than forty percent of its usual pace.


    Within the swirling vortex of sand, a sharp, fan-sized w shed out of nowhere, striking toward the man¡¯s back with ghost-like speed.


    Thud!


    The blow sent him flying backward by dozens of zhang, his protective barrier dimming significantly.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ¡°Great Elder, save me!¡±


    Knowing he was no match for his attacker in his weakened state, the long-bearded man clutched a token and urgently transmitted a distress signal.


    But just as he called for help, the familiar sharp whistling of the Barbed Arrow once again rang in his ears.


    ¡°No!¡ª¡±


    Pain red in the man¡¯s mind as his soul was wracked with excruciating torment. Blood poured from his eyes, ears, and nose as his body swayed unsteadily.


    From dozens of zhang behind him, a fully-charged Barbed Arrow emerged from the shadows like a silent reaper.


    Shlick!


    The arrow shed forward, tearing through the long-bearded man¡¯s head. His body stiffened as his soul crumbled to dust.


    ¡°If one Barbed Arrow isn''t enough, two will do the job.¡±


    Standing ten li away, Lan Chang''an waved his hand lightly, and the two Barbed Arrows flew back into his grasp.


    Squeak, squeak!


    At the same time, the Earth Burrowing Rat scurried onto the battlefield to swiftly clean up.


    It opened its sharp maw wide, devouring the long-bearded man¡¯s True Dan along with the remnants of blood and any lingering traces of spiritual energy in the area.


    ¡°Hmm, they¡¯reing so quickly?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense detected an approaching presence from several dozen li away.


    The neer radiated the unmistakable aura of ate-stage Core Formation cultivator, moving toward him with rming speed.


    Considering the long-bearded man¡¯s possession of a third-rank treasure capable of defending against mental attacks and his ability to buy time, Lan Chang''an spected that the man had been bait.


    What the other party hadn¡¯t anticipated, however, was that Lan Chang''an¡¯s long-range attack capabilities were so bizarre and deadly that the trap backfired.


    ¡°Time to run!¡±


    With the battlefield cleared, Lan Chang''an stowed the Earth Burrowing Rat into his spirit beast pouch and fled northeast into the Nine Fiery Heavens.


    Late-stage Core Formation cultivators were not his target.


    Even with all three Barbed Arrows fully charged, their ability to threaten ate-stage Core Formation expert was limited.


    The charged strike of a single Barbed Arrow wasparable to the full-force attack of ate-stage Core Formation cultivator, but its strengthy in its range and stealth, not raw power.


    To ensure he wouldn¡¯t be caught, Lan Chang''an pulled out an excellent quality mid-grade third-rank treasure talisman.


    Affixing the escape treasure talisman to his body, his speed instantly surged to near that of ate-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    With this boost, as long as he remained outside the range of his pursuer¡¯s spiritual sense, the odds of evading capture were overwhelmingly in his favor.


    ¡­


    Half an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression darkened as he looked into the distance. Several dozen li away, ate-stage Core Formation cultivator¡¯s light streaked through the sky.


    Even from this range, his enhanced spiritual sense¡ªboosted by the fusion of his past life¡¯s soul¡ªcould clearly make out the appearance of the pursuer. It was a red-robed Daoist with a bulbous, wine-red nose.


    ¡°Peakte-stage Core Formation... and proficient in tracking techniques. My speed is inferior to his.¡±


    Lan Chang''an quickly realized that with just his mid-grade third-rank escape talisman, he couldn''t escape the other party''s pursuit.


    Facing him head-on wasn¡¯t viable. Even if he used all of his trump cards, the odds of victory were slim, and killing the opponent outright was out of the question.


    His fused past life¡¯s state primarily enhanced his spiritual abilities but provided only a limited boost to his mana.


    Even if he were at his peak state from his previous life, fighting ate-stage Core Formation cultivator from a former Nascent Soul-level sect would still be a daunting task.


    That said, killing Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t be easy for the red-robed Daoist either.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s defensive capabilities far exceeded the expectations of ordinary cultivators. He had a third-rank demon beast, a third-rank puppet, third-rank body refinement techniques, a plethora of third-rank treasure talismans, and other means of survival.


    The title of ¡°Turtle Immortal¡± was well-earned.


    ¡°Enough!¡±


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t willing to waste time in the Seven Kingdoms Alliance. Prolonging this chase would only lead to unnecessaryplications.


    He had two stronger escape methods at his disposal.


    The first was a top-grade third-rank escape treasure talisman, which, if activated outside the range of spiritual sense detection, could easily widen the gap and break the enemy¡¯s tracking abilities.


    However, Lan Chang''an chose the second option because top-grade third-rank treasure talismans had the potential to be nurtured to the fourth-rank, making them too valuable to use lightly.


    He pulled out a Minor Teleportation Talisman and infused it with mana.


    Whoosh!


    In an instant, Lan Chang''an vanished from his original location and reappeared dozens of li away, high in the sky.


    The distance between him and the red-robed Daoist had now increased by nearly a hundred li.


    To throw off his pursuer, Lan Chang''an removed the robe that carried Nie Yuan¡¯s spiritual aura and dropped it into a ravine below.


    He then affixed another mid-grade third-rank escape talisman to himself and flew off in apletely different direction.


    Half a dayter.


    After confirming that the red-robed Daoist had not caught up, Lan Chang''an finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    While it was true that in a life-or-death battle, it was unknown who would be the one to die between them, as a self-proimed ¡°longevity cultivator,¡± why would he risk entangling himself with such a strong opponent?


    If the Daoist had some sort of hidden trump card, it would be too easy for Lan Chang''an to fall into an unexpected trap.


    ¡°Fighting weaker opponents is far more enjoyable. Crossing realms to duel isn¡¯t my style.¡±


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly.


    Fighting against weaker cultivators was safer, more efficient, and far more satisfying.


    As long as he lived long enough, even the greatest adversaries of the past would eventually age and fade.


    For longevity cultivators, asionally abusing vegetables and punching the elderly was far more beneficial for maintaining peace of mind and health.


    Life-or-death battles that pushed one¡¯s limits, awakening hidden potential or triggering breakthroughs duringbat... Let the young ones chase such fleeting moments of glory.


    ...


    Seven dayster.


    Lan Chang''an exited the borders of the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    In truth, he had only ventured into the mid-rear regions of the Alliance and had no interest in exploring further into thisnd, even though its prosperity and cultivation opportunities surpassed those of the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    After all, the Seven Kingdoms Alliance was still under relentless assault by the Six Demonic Sects.


    Despite its strength, the Alliance was being invaded by Blood Spirit Sect and Illusion Demon Pce, two demonic sects only slightly weaker than Beast King Valley.


    In the end, Lan Chang''an returned to Jin Yun Valley in the Liang Kingdom,pleting his journey within the nned three-month timeframe.


    The time he had spent away from Yui Peak had been short enough that the illusory presence aura he had left in his cave abode had not yet dissipated. Everything was just as he had left it.


    Sitting cross-legged in meditation, Lan Chang''an reflected on the potential ws in his recent actions.


    Though some hidden dangers remained, he was confident they could be attributed to the Nie Yuan persona he had adopted.


    ¡°Two True Dan elders from a rival faction eliminated. One third-rank puppet traded.¡±


    ¡°Not to mention, the lead on that hidden treasure vault¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an nodded in satisfaction. His three promised contributions to me Departing Pce had indeed made an impact on its path to recovery.


    The third contribution was a clue to a hidden treasure vault belonging to Master Lihuo, thete Supreme Elder of me Departing Pce.


    The clue hade from the fragmented and disorganized memories that Lan Chang''an had painstakingly sifted through over the years.


    ording to the memory fragments, Master Lihuo had secretly established the treasure vault several years before the great war in the ck Fog Mountain Range. It contained arge stockpile of cultivation resources meant for rebuilding the sect.


    However, the exact location of the vault remained unclear.


    The memory fragments provided only vague details, and searching the ck Fog Mountain Range for the treasure trove would require an immense amount of time and effort.


    Furthermore, without cultivating me Departing Pce¡¯s core techniques, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t even be able to bypass the restrictions guarding the treasures.


    The vault was designed so that only a true inheritor of me Departing Pce¡¯s core legacy could unlock it.


    The supplies to rebuild the sect had very few high-grade items, and Lan Chang''an didn''t want to waste too much energy venturing deep into the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Rebuilding the sect required more than just eliminating one or two Core Formation elders from rival factions.


    This was why Lan Chang''an had ultimately decided to offer this clue to me Departing Pce as his third contribution.


    ¡°To forge iron, one must be strong oneself.¡±


    Lan Chang''an had no intention of wasting his own time and energy chasing after uncertain rewards in a treacherous region like the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    By offering the clue to me Departing Pce, he could leverage their resources to search for the treasure trove instead.


    With his three contributions¡ªeliminating rival elders, providing a third-rank puppet, and offering the treasure vault clue¡ªLan Chang''an believed he had given me Departing Pce a solid foundation to regain its strength.


    ...


    "How far am I from fulfilling Master Lihuo¡¯s final wish?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s consciousness entered the Nine Seal Stele.


    The shadow of the purple-robed Daoist¡ªhis fourth-life imprint¡ªflickered faintly in the monument, surrounded by dancing mes. However, it had yet to fully materialize or engrave itself into form.


    Up until now, this shadow had always felt distant, as though there was an invisible barrier separating it from Lan Chang''an.


    It was not like the imprints of his first and second lives, which felt perfectly integrated with him, with no distinction between them.


    Huh!


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an sensed something unusual¡ªthe sense of distance and separation from the purple-robed True Monarch¡¯s shadow had noticeably lessened.


    What was even more surprising was that, over time, this barrier seemed to be dissolving further.


    "It seems I¡¯ve been on the right track after all."


    Lan Chang''an smiled with relief.


    His actions to push for the revival of me Departing Pce were clearly having a significant effect.


    The final wish of Master Lihuo did not specifically demand the birth of a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    However, it did require certain conditions: the sect needed to produce an Immortal Golden Dan cultivator, and secure a suitable mountain gate to reestablish its ce within the cultivation world.


    This much Lan Chang''an had gleaned from the faint messages emanating from the shadow of the purple-robed True Monarch in the Nine Seal Stele.


    Over the next year or two, Lan Chang''an asionally observed the changes in his fourth-life imprint in the Nine Seal Stele.


    At the same time, he kept an eye on the overall situation surrounding me Departing Pce in the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    The results were promising.


    The sense of separation between Lan Chang''an and the purple-robed True Monarch¡¯s shadow continued to diminish.


    Meanwhile, me Departing Pce had also made steady progress.


    After Tianxing Pavilion lost two of its True Dan elders, it had be much more cautious and withdrawn, even going so far as to pull out of thepetition for the quasi-fourth-rank spirit vein.


    It wasn¡¯t just the loss of two mid- and early-stage True Dan elders that had caused Tianxing Pavilion¡¯s retreat.


    The real turning point was a rumor that began spreading in the cultivation world.


    The rumor imed that me Departing Pce now had not just one Golden Dan cultivator Wang Feng, but also a second Golden Dan cultivator Nie Yuan in the shadows, whosebat prowess was even greater.


    Both were considered Nascent Soul seeds for the sect.


    This caused me Departing Pce¡¯s prestige to soar.


    In the long history of the cultivation world, cases of Golden Dan cultivators ying opponents of higher realms were rare, but not unheard of.


    Some of these cultivators had even been recognized as geniuses of their generation, shaking the era with their achievements.


    With the rumor seemingly credible, neighboring cultivation factions around me Departing Pce began to reconsider their stance.


    Even if they could defeat me Departing Pce, what then?


    With an Immortal Golden Dan hiding in the shadows, any victory could be short-lived.


    If Nie Yuan eventually advanced to thete stage of Core Formation, his threat would only grow.


    Should he one day step into the Nascent Soul Realm, he might even rank among the strongest of True Monarchs.


    "Two great Golden Dan cultivators, one in the light and one in the dark¡ªme Departing Pce yed this move beautifully!"


    Upon hearing this news, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but apud.


    Recently, another piece of news arrived from the Seven Kingdoms Alliance:


    me Departing Pce had sessfully purchased a quasi-fourth-rank spirit vein and was in the process of rebuilding its mountain gate!


    The sense of separation between Lan Chang''an and the shadow of the purple-robed True Monarch diminished to less than ten percent, he could barely detect any separation.


    He had a strong premonition:


    Once me Departing Pce relocated to its new mountain gate and established itself in the Seven Kingdoms Alliance with its current level of prestige, Master Lihuo¡¯s final wish would be fulfilled.


    ...


    On this day, Lan Chang''an, who had turned 192 years old, descended to the underground stone hall beneath Yui Peak.


    The Profound Water Turtle stood guard near the Xuanmu Vine Gourd with a protective presence.


    When Lan Chang''an arrived, the turtle was busy using a cloud rain spell to nourish the gourd vine¡¯s withering branches.


    The turtle¡¯s aura rippled outward, revealing that its cultivation had reached the peak of the second rank!


    ¡°Time flies¡­ even the Profound Water Turtle is about to face the threshold of advancing to be a third-rank Great Demon,¡± Lan Chang''an murmured, calcting the time.


    It had been 150 years since the Profound Water Turtle hatched.


    Although its growth defied convention, its cultivation progress was still slightly slower than that of ordinary demonic beasts.


    This was likely not only due to the nourishment of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Golden Dan mana but also the unknown benefits provided by the Xuanmu Vine Gourd.


    The Profound Water Turtle wasn¡¯t the only one nearing a breakthrough.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had also reached the early peak of the third rank, but its breakthrough was being deliberately concealed.


    Lan Chang''an was wary of exposing the identity tied to his "Xiang Immortal" persona. Such a revtion would bringplications with Hangyu Immortal, Xiang Jinglong, and the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association.


    As such, the Earth Burrowing Rat would have to remain hidden, unable to show off its strength as a third-rank demonic beast.


    The Profound Water Turtle, however, didn¡¯t have as much baggage.


    With its long lifespan and unique bloodline as a rare Earth-grade attribute spirit beast, its advancement to the third rank was merely a matter of time.


    Lan Chang''an lightly traced the patterns on the turtle¡¯s shell, contemting the most auspicious date for its advancement.


    Suddenly, the Nine Seal Stele in his mind let out a faint hum.


    Lan Chang''an froze for a moment, then broke into a joyful smile. His consciousness dove into the Nine Seal Stele.


    Within the frame of the fourth life, the shadow of the purple-robed True Monarch, once faint and iplete, began to shift.


    Waves of formless smoke drifted from its surface as a brilliant crystal-white light swept across the frame, illuminating the once hazy figure.


    The light rippled through the semi-formed shadow, washing away its half-real, half-illusory state.


    When the glow faded, the purple-robed True Monarch¡¯s soul shadow stood fully formed.


    Its aura now exuded purity and vitality, imbued with the elegance of immortality and the charisma of a sage.


    Engraved perfectly into the fourth frame of the stele, it now seemed lifelike, brimming with divine grandeur.

 Chapter 280: Past Life of a Nascent Soul

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    At the moment when thest wish was fulfilled, Lan Chang''an experienced a profound realization.


    It felt as though he had resolved a karmic bond, breaking free from certain shackles.


    The prerequisite conditions were met, and the life of Master Lihuo had now been transformed into a past life.


    This was entirely different from soul-searching, where memories were forcibly extracted.


    The Nine Seal Stele was not a prison for confining souls; its essencey in the maniption of the power of reincarnation.


    Where there is reincarnation, karma is inevitably involved.


    Thus, one of the three reincarnation methods of the Nine Seal Stele ¡ª turning someone else''s life into one''s past life ¡ª required fulfilling the deceased''s most significant wish during their lifetime.


    A deceased person''s wishes were unlikely to be limited to one, but the Nine Seal Stele selected the one with the strongest obsession.By dissolving this obsession and fulfilling the wish, it seemed to align with the rules of the Nine Seal Stele and even thews of reincarnation in the universe itself.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an thought of a chilling possibility.


    If Master Lihuo became his past life, would there still be a next life for him?


    Or rather, would Master Lihuo¡¯s next life be Lan Chang''an?


    The concept of reincarnation had existed in the cultivation world since time immemorial and had even been proven across various human realms.


    This was because there were numerous examples of powerful cultivators who, after reincarnation, unlocked their memories of their previous life in their new one.


    Rebuilding one''s path in a new life with the memories of the past, and embarking on the immortal path once more, was not unique to Lan Chang''an.


    However, the Nine Seal Stele made Lan Chang''an''s reincarnation and cultivation far more stable and precise.


    It even allowed him to control his reincarnation to a certain extent.


    ¡°There are three reincarnation methods, and I still have a choice to make.¡±


    Lan Chang''an withdrew his consciousness from the Nine Seal Stele, pondering for a long time.


    After all, this was the first time he had gained the ability to choose his own reincarnation.


    In his first two lives, reincarnation had been passive, triggered only after his death.


    The other two reincarnation methods were as follows:


    One, a customized new reincarnation life. He could choose his birth background, the region where he would be reborn, his spiritual root aptitude, and even his luck and fortuitous opportunities. R¦¡????¨§?


    However, under the overall rules of fate, gains and losses were inevitable. If one pursued a bnce across all aspects, the result would be mediocrity.


    Second, enter a dream of an alternate cultivation life, where the person in the dream would be another "Lan Chang''an" who coexisted in the same cultivation world.


    The oue of this method was highly unpredictable, with immense potential for both gains and losses.


    The "other Lan Chang''an" in the dream might perish midway during the Qi-Refining, Foundation Establishment, or Core Formation stages. Conversely, it was also theoretically possible for him to ascend to the Nascent Soul, Deity Transformation, or even achieve immortality.


    ¡­


    Three dayster.


    In the underground stone hall beneath Yui Peak, the quasi fourth-rank formation was activated.


    Lan Chang''an, his spirit, energy, and essence brimming, decided to proceed ording to his original n.


    The insights and enlightenment gained during a Nascent Soul Tribtion alone were priceless treasures.


    His first two lives as a Qi-Refining cultivator and Core Formation cultivator had provided immense assistance to Lan Chang''an, forming the foundation that allowed him to survive and thrive in the cultivation world.


    Without his past lives, he would have had no way to establish himself in the early stages of his current life.


    Without his past lives, he wouldn¡¯t have been able to achieve a Third-Turn Golden Dan and use his immensely powerful merged spiritual sense to hide his identity through the Hundred Illusions Mask, fooling everyone in Wangyue Immortal City.


    Without his past lives, when he was intercepted by Master Lihuo back then, he would have passed out during the first wave of spiritual soul attacks.


    The Nine Seal Stele was merely immune to Nascent Soul possession; it did not grant immunity to soul-based attacks.


    Caution alone was not an omnipotent solution.


    For ordinary cultivators, even with double the lifespan, it would still be extremely difficult to form an Immortal Golden Dan and ascend to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    The disasters and tribtions in the cultivation world, both great and small, could not be resolved with longevity alone unless one possessed both vision and the ability to defend their path.


    Additionally, the spirit veins of various ranks, and key strategic resources of various realms were controlled by major powers.


    This meant that cultivators could not iste themselves entirely; they had to interact with major cultivation forces.


    ¡°Begin!¡±


    Without further hesitation, Lan Chang''an closed his eyes, his consciousness entering the Nine Seal Stele to initiate his fourth reincarnation.


    Buzz!


    The soul imprint of the purple-robed Daoist from his fourth life frame began to glow with a crystalline white radiance. The depiction of the Daoist, with his celestial aura and profound bearing, slowly lost its brilliance and faded.


    It was like a vivid portrait gradually losing its color and vitality, bing a lifeless ck-and-white memorial.


    Boom!


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s sea of consciousness trembled violently.


    It felt as if a veil concealing the mysteries of the womb had been lifted, and the vast memories of this new past life surged forth like an overwhelming tide.


    This sensation was identical to when he had awakened the memories of his first two lives in this lifetime.


    The difference was that the memories of this past life were more immense than those of the previous three livesbined, by at least tenfold.


    Fortunately, this vast and boundless memory inherently belonged to his "reincarnated past life," causing no resistance or rejection within him.


    It was as if a missing segment of his memory had been restored.


    As time passed, a look of rity appeared on Lan Chang''an''s face.


    ¡°So, it turns out that beyond my first life as a Qi-Refining loose cultivator and my second life as a peak Core Formation cultivator from a cultivation family¡­¡±


    ¡°I also had a third life ¡ª a glorious eight-hundred-year-long journey as a Nascent Soul True Monarch!¡±


    In the brief span of time, Lan Chang''an awakened and reviewed the life of his fourth reincarnation.


    Yet, his true self remained unaffected, still retaining the mindset of a modern youth from Earth before crossing over, untouched by the vicissitudes of his several lifetimes of cultivation.


    ¡­


    I, Poor Daoist Lihuo Shangren, True Monarch Lihuo, Supreme Elder of the me Departing Pce.


    Before this Poor Daoist embarked on the path of cultivation, my mortal name was Duan Daniu.


    I was born in the Eastern Region of Great Qing, Hengshui Prefecture of Liang Kingdom, in Leyang County...


    Before the age of ten, an anomaly urred around me, revealing my talent: a Heavenly Fire Spiritual Root. My aptitude was discovered.


    Amidst the fiercepetition between several sects, I was admitted to the strongest sect in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world ¡ª me Departing Pce.


    At the age of twenty-five, I sessfully advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage without the need for a Foundation Establishment Pill, breaking a three-thousand-year record in the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    In the years following Foundation Establishment, I married several concubines.


    They were the descendants or disciples of the Supreme Elder, the Pce Lord, or Inner Sect Elders. They were all extraordinarily beautiful, pure, and ethereal.


    I could not refuse them and reluctantly epted.


    At the age of eighty-one, after polishing my cultivation at the peak of the ninth level of Foundation Establishment for many years, I attempted to form an Immortal Golden Dan.


    With my heavenly spiritual root aptitude, a superior Crystal Condensation Pill, and three superior Core Formation items¡­ I lived up to everyone¡¯s expectations and sessfully formed an Immortal Golden Dan. The true fire I condensed burned at a significantly higher temperature, though it had limited use inbat.


    I made a decision then ¡ª to pursue both alchemy and artifact refinement alongside my cultivation.


    Later, I discovered that my talent in alchemy was mediocre, but I had some aptitude for artifact refinement.


    At the age of 256, after lingering at the peak of the Core Formation stage for over twenty years, I ventured out for experience, tempered my spiritual sense, and returned to the sect to attempt forming a Nascent Soul.


    However, the advantage of my heavenly spiritual root was far less effective during this pivotal breakthrough to the Nascent Soul Realm than it had been during Foundation Establishment or Core Formation.


    Fortunately, with a solid Core Formation foundation and being in my prime, I managed to break through and form a Nascent Soul.


    The Nascent Soul Tribtion, however, was fraught with danger.


    I endured the initial lightning tribtions, though I suffered severe injuries.


    The final Heart Demon Tribtion nearly led to my downfall, as a demon from beyond attempted to exploit my weakness.


    But this poor Daoist had lived life with a clear conscience and eventually overcame the tribtion of the heart.


    When I formed my Nascent Soul, the Supreme Elder at the time had only seventy to eighty years of lifespan remaining, and their Nascent Soul had already begun to wither.


    It was fortunate that I seeded, ensuring that the me Departing Pce''s lineage of Nascent Soul cultivators was not severed.


    Another fellow senior brother with an earth spiritual root, who was also a Golden Dan, failed in his tribtion and perished, his Dao vanishing.


    At the age of 542, I attempted to advance to the mid-stage Nascent Soul for the second time. This time, I failed. My vitality was severely depleted, and my divine essence was damaged.


    After two failures, I realized that the unparalleled advantage of my heavenly spiritual root was no longer present.


    In the Eastern Region of Great Qing, high-grade fourth-rank spiritual veins were rare.


    In the surrounding cultivation realms, the luck and fortune were insufficient. For Nascent Soul cultivators, this region was nearing its limit as a cultivation ground. Every breakthrough became increasingly difficult.


    I heard that in the ancient Central Region of the Heaven Honoured Continent, fifth-rank spiritual veins existed. There were Deity Transformation Heavenly Lords, vast expanses ofnd, and abundant resources.


    In Fenghua Province, the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty suppressed the fortune of heaven and earth, making tens of thousands of sects bow their heads. The emperor bestowed immortal titles, and all under heaven was imperial soil.


    If I were to travel to such a vast and powerful province, my chances of breaking through to the mid-stage Nascent Soul might increase.


    However, the me Departing Pce had only me as a Nascent Soul cultivator. Seeing my grown disciples, descendants, and offspring, how could I abandon them?


    Moreover, ording to the records of the sect''s ancestors, the journey from Great Qing to the outer provinces was long and perilous.


    One ancestor of the me Departing Pce had perished on such a journey.


    The Golden Sun Sect monopolized a middle-grade fourth-rank spiritual vein. Otherwise, my chances of advancing to the mid-stage Nascent Soul would increase by at least 15%.


    Unfortunately, the Golden Sun Sect had three Nascent Soul cultivators, though one of them, an ancient being, was nearing the end of their lifespan.


    I could not defeat them and dared not provoke them.


    I made a vow: If I ever reached the mid-stage Nascent Soul, I would join forces with the Chen Kingdom to invade the Feng Kingdom and seize the Golden Sun Sect''s middle-grade fourth-rank spiritual vein.


    At the age of over six hundred, a Golden Dan disciple whom I had high hopes for failed to form a Nascent Soul.


    Disappointed once more, I diverted more of my energy into the myriad arts of cultivation.


    In the long years of cultivation, even though Icked exceptional talent in these arts, I managed to achieve some aplishments.


    - As an Artifact Refiner, I reached the superior third rank.


    - As a Formation Master, I achieved the middle third rank.


    - As an Alchemist, I attained the low third rank.


    - As a Talisman Master, I reached the low third rank.


    - In Divination, I achieved the low third rank.


    ¡­


    At 698 Years Old


    I heard a rumor about a loose cultivator in Huanglong Immortal City who practiced a life-nurturing technique. At seventy years old, he reached the Foundation Establishment stage, breaking a millennium-long record in Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    That kid, seems to be called some kind of turtle.


    An amusing tale, but it wasn''t enough to draw my attention.


    If I had known how difficult it would be to break through to the mid-stage of Nascent Soul, I might have practiced life-nurturing techniques myself and extended my lifespan by another hundred years.


    Unfortunately, such techniques are mostly wood- or water-elemental, while my heavenly spiritual root is fire-elemental.


    At 734 Years Old


    Chu Tianfeng of the Endless Pce in the Yan Kingdom advanced to the mid-stage of Nascent Soul.


    This rising star, two or three hundred years younger than me, possessed an innate Dao physique. Though his aptitude and cultivation speed were inferior to mine, he still managed to break through to the mid-stage Nascent Soul.


    It was said that Chu Tianfeng traveled in the central regions of the Great Qing for over a century and perhaps obtained some fortuitous encounters.


    I was envious, but there was nothing I could do.


    At 740 Years Old


    As I expected, Chu Tianfeng allied with the Chen Kingdom and invaded the Feng Kingdom, targeting the fourth-rank middle-grade spiritual vein controlled by the Golden Sun Sect.


    At 743 Years Old


    The Feng Kingdom, with its deep reserves, managed to hold its ground, and the war reached a stalemate. Chu Tianfeng found himself in a difficult position.


    I sent envoys to contact Chu Tianfeng, offering to cooperate in the invasion of the Feng Kingdom to plunder resources and elevate the me Departing Pce''s heritage as well as that of the Liang Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    Chu Tianfeng did not object, which I took as tacit approval.


    The invasion by the Liang Kingdom''s sects went smoothly. With mutual understanding and coordination between Chen Kingdom, Yan Kingdom, and us, our efforts aligned seamlessly.


    Feng Kingdom, rich in resources and home to three Nascent Soul sects, was a formidable opponent, a tough bone to chew.


    Among them, the former top Nascent Soul cultivator of Feng Kingdom, True Monarch Blood River from Blood Sword Valley, though no longer at his peak, remained a force to be reckoned with.


    At 755 Years Old


    The Six Demonic Sects began expanding eastward. The signs were bing apparent.


    Man proposes, but Heaven disposes.


    Sensing danger, Feng Kingdom, Yan Kingdom, and Chen Kingdom secretly negotiated a ceasefire agreement.


    At 765 Years Old


    Golden Sun Sect relocated north,unching an aggressive campaign.


    The disparity in strength and resources left me with no choice but to fortify defenses.


    Fortunately, the Golden Sun Sect only dared to dispatch a single Nascent Soul cultivator to lead their forces.


    At 786 Years Old


    I sessfully defended against their advances for twenty years and began preparing a contingency n for evacuation.


    However, the Six Demonic Sects continued to draw closer, forcing Chu Tianfeng to pressure me for a decisive battle.


    A gamble was proposed: if I could defeat Six Sun True Monarch of Golden Sun Sect in a one-on-one duel, their forces would withdraw.


    The losing side would be relegated to guarding the Yan Kingdom''s fourth-rank spiritual vein, bing the first line of defense against the demonic sect invasion.


    As a Nascent Soul early-stage cultivator, my odds in a one-on-one battle were fifty-fifty.


    At 787 Years Old


    Chu Tianfeng went back on his word. During the duel, a mysterious individual ambushed me!


    That long spike-like magic treasure¡ªit injured my soul!


    With my Nascent Soul damaged and my physical body heavily injured during the fight, Six Sun True Monarch took advantage of the situation, breaking our agreement and attempting to kill me.


    I narrowly escaped with my life, fleeing to the Jing Kingdom''s border.


    My Nascent Soul was gravely wounded, my body nearly destroyed, and my divine abilities reduced to barely a tenth of their full strength.


    To make matters worse, the audacious Xuan Yin Demonic Sect dared to attack me!


    How did Liang Shaotian know the specifics of my injuries?


    After driving off Liang Shaotian and his aplices, I encountered Chu Tianfeng, who had pursued me.


    Chu Tianfeng apologized and gifted me a fourth-rank Soul-Nurturing Wood, urging me to recover quickly and join him in resisting the demonic sects'' invasion.


    However, I confirmed that the mysterious assant belonged to Unseen Gate.


    This shattered my faith in the soon-to-be-formed Righteous Dao Alliance. Losing trust, I became disillusioned.


    At 788 Years Old


    I began preparing to seek a new physical body to restore my strength and nned to relocate the me Departing Pce to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    It was then that I heard of a Foundation Establishment cultivator named Lan Chang''an, known as the "Turtle Talisman Master."


    Despite being in the Foundation Establishment stage, this person had over five hundred years of lifespan remaining!


    The vitality and longevity of that body were highly desirable.


    I decided to investigate.


    I set up a formation, intending to capture him alive and interrogate him slowly.


    To my surprise, he resisted my soul-attack techniques!


    Deep within his body, there seemed to be a concealed Core Formation-level soul. Due to my damaged Nascent Soul, I had failed to detect it earlier.


    So many Restriction-Breaking Talismans? My formation couldn¡¯t hold him!


    What¡¯s more, there was even a third-rank Great Demon assisting him?!


    This man was far too peculiar¡ªhe must have had a tremendous fortuitous encounter.


    Wang Feng was injured and buried under an earth wall.


    I had no choice but to unleash my Nascent Soul to pursue and capture him.


    If I let him escape, I would lose this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity forever.


    I had a strong intuition: if I offended this man and allowed him to leave, it would spell disaster for the me Departing Pce in the future.


    With no other options, I risked everything and unleashed my Nascent Soul.


    Fortunately, the Core Formation soul within him had already been greatly depleted, giving me a more than 70% chance of sess.


    What?!


    This Nine Seals Stone Tablet?!


    My soul was utterly defenseless! Could this be a legendary Heaven-Defying Spiritual Treasure?


    No¡ª


    ¡­


    ¡°This Poor Daoist¡ªno, this ¡®Lan¡¯¡ªwas defeated by the Nine Seal Stele in my past life. I cannot im it to be unjust. The Nine Seal Stele must surpass ordinary spiritual treasures and is likely a reincarnation treasure on par with supreme treasures like the Xuantian Treasures.¡±


    Inside the underground stone hall, Lan Chang''an opened his eyes, returning to the present reality.


    Not long ago, he had initiated the fourth cycle of his reincarnation and reviewed the illustrious life of his fourth incarnation as the "Poor Daoist."


    With a Nascent Soul-stage past life, Lan Chang''an¡¯s perspective hadpletely changed, granting him a much deeper understanding of the Nine Seal Stele.


    The Nine Seal Stele appeared to contain thews of reincarnation, which prevented Master Lihuo¡¯s soul from entering the great cycle of reincarnation after his death.


    Xuantian Treasures often embody the correspondingws of a specific world.


    From this perspective, the Nine Seal Stele resembled a special kind of Xuantian Treasure.


    ¡°A Nascent Soul past life¡ªtruly extraordinary! Even just a fragment of the knowledge it provides can change the destiny of lower-tier cultivators.¡±


    With a single thought, countless insights and instincts surged into Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind.


    For example, the techniques and divine abilities Master Lihuo specialized in, along with his spells and crafts.


    From the fourth life¡¯s memories alone, there were at least seven or eight Nascent Soul-level inheritance techniques.


    Beneath those, there were countless other cultivation methods.


    Even body-refining techniques numbered over a dozen, most of which were superior to the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art that Lan Chang''an had been cultivating.


    Among the secret arts was a movement technique called the Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique.


    This technique burned one''s essence blood and lifespan to transform oneself into a zing crimson sun, explosively boosting escape speed.


    The Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique ced immense strain on the body. The more lifespan burned, the more terrifying the escape speed.


    Theoretically, if one paid a sufficient price, it could allow escape from pursuit by cultivators of much higher realms.


    This escape technique had six levels, corresponding to Foundation Establishment throughte-stage Nascent Soul.


    Master Lihuo had cultivated it to the fourth level.


    Because of this, Lan Chang''an now intuitively understood and naturally mastered the first four levels of the Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique, saving him a great deal of effort.


    However, with his current cultivation base, he estimated he could only use the second level, which corresponded to the mid-stage of Core Formation.


    At the second level, the explosive speed was several times that of a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator¡ªenough to escape evente-stage Core Formation cultivators.


    Still, using this escape technique would cost him lifespan with every use.


    ¡°Divination arts¡­ Zhou Tian Tui Bei Book¡­ Nine Lives Divination Unraveling¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an was surprised to discover that he now possessed the ability to divine.


    In his fourth life, he had studied divination but only reached the third rank. At that level, he could only calcte fates at the Core Formation stage or below.


    If he had reached the fourth rank, it would have provided significant assistance to even Nascent Soul cultivators, predicting their fortunes and disasters and securing opportunities for himself.


    ¡°Divination and fate calction are paths that pry into the workings of heaven. They cannot be used frequently, as they consume vitality and lifespan. That¡¯s why, over hundreds of years in my fourth life, I only managed to reach the low third rank.¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood the difficulty of this path.


    For now, third-rank divination was sufficient for him. With his long lifespan, the asional toll on his life expectancy wasn¡¯t an issue.


    With this thought, Lan Chang''an began to calcte his recent fortunes by pinching his fingers into a divination gesture.


    Suddenly, an overwhelming feeling of inspiration surged into his heart.


    A great fortune was imminent!


    It felt as though he could hear the ethereal music of the heavens, lifting his spirits.


    Lan Chang''an nodded slightly, feeling that unlocking the mysteries of his Nascent Soul past life was indeed an auspicious sign.


    Divination, when paired with specialized tools and artifacts, could increase the precision and sess rate of calctions.


    The memories of his Nascent Soul past life were vast, and there was an overwhelming amount of useful knowledge.


    He would need some time to sort through it all and adapt gradually.


    ...


    Once more, Lan Chang''an sent his consciousness into the Nine Seal Stele.


    The figure of the purple-robed Daoist from the fourth life now appeared shrouded in darkness, lifeless and dim.


    ¡°I wonder how long it will take to fully ignite the fourth life.¡±


    Lan Chang''an had no immediate answer.


    If the fourth life were fully ignited, it would be equivalent to a Nascent Soul possession.


    At the Nascent Soul Realm, the soul undergoes a qualitative transformation, and the divine abilities brought about by such a possession would far surpass those of his first two lives.


    At present, the first four seals of the Nine Seal Stele all had etched images.


    Only the third life, represented by the figure of a white-clothed man, remained indistinct, flickering between light and shadow.


    The remaining five seals werepletely nk.


    Curious, Lan Chang''an directed his thoughts to touch the nk fifth seal, probing the conditions for unlocking it.


    Since devouring the Nascent Soul and lighting the fourth seal, the Nine Seal Stele seemed to have gained a touch of sentience. When he explored or inquired, it would provide abstract and vague responses.


    ¡°Ten¡­ or one?¡±


    This vague response left Lan Chang''an startled, but then he suddenly understood.


    ¡°Ten times the previous requirement?¡±


    His expression shifted.


    ¡°Ten Nascent Soul spiritual bodies?¡±


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a chill run down his spine.


    Opportunities to capture Nascent Souls were exceedingly rare and incredibly difficult toe by.


    Devouring ten Nascent Souls? The difficulty of this task was almost unimaginable.


    Even if he advanced to the Nascent Soul Realm in the future, capturing a Nascent Soul alive would be several times harder than simply killing one.


    Every Nascent Soul cultivator had lived for hundreds of years and possessed unpredictable divine abilities and means.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Without overwhelming strength, each capture would entail immense risks.


    Such a requirement was entirely at odds with his cautious and steady philosophy for cultivating in this life.


    Shaking his head, Lan Chang''an exited the Nine Seal Stele.


    Unlocking the fifth life seemed a distant goal, and by then, he might not even choose this method of reincarnation again.


    For now, his priority was to digest the immense gains from the fourth life and use this newfound knowledge to n his path to Nascent Soul with even greater rity.

 Chapter 281: Divination Calculations

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Seven dayster.


    Inside the alchemy chamber of the Yui Peak''s cave dwelling.


    The furnace lid opened with a ng, and radiant light surged forth. Three spirit pills, gleaming with a dark misty sheen, floated into Lan Chang''an''s hand.


    "Third-rank spirit pills, ck Dragon Pills."


    Lan Chang''an examined the pills carefully. Each bore seven pill patterns, their luster radiant, their texture round and full.


    The ck Dragon Pill was capable of neutralizing most of the world''s potent toxins and was the third-rank specialty of Master Lihuo.


    "In the past hundred years, these were nigh impossible to obtain. But now, as a third-rank alchemist, theye easily to hand."


    Lan Chang''an chuckled lightly, feeling immensely pleased.In this lifetime, he had dabbled in the art of alchemy, but his talent was mediocre. After over a century, he had only managed to be a low-grade second-rank alchemist, unable to advance to mid-grade.


    In the previous few decades, he had nearly given up on alchemy altogether, focusing only on concocting basic pills for daily use.


    Now, having reached the level of a third-rank alchemist, he had finally fulfilled a long-cherished dream.


    Inparison, however, the arts of divination and artifact refinement had proven to be far more beneficial to Lan Chang''an.


    Divination, the art of predicting fortune and misfortune, allowed for prudent decision-making and careful nning.


    Artifact refinement, the highest skill of Master Lihuo in his past life among the many immortal cultivation arts, had reached the superior grade of third-rank craftsmanship.


    Now, all of these skills belonged to Lan Chang''an.


    With such expertise, he would no longer need to rely on others to craft his lifebound magical treasures in the future.


    Moreover, artifact refinement greatly aided in the creation of puppets.


    The weapons and armor of these puppets could now be personally refined by him to reach the level of true magical treasures, rather than being mere downgraded versions with only raw material strength and characteristics.


    "The resources I poured into the Seven Kingdoms Alliance were absolutely worth it!"


    Lan Chang''an put away the pills, his emotions still a little stirred.


    The ability of the Nine Seal Stele to grant a full lifetime''s experiences was fundamentally different from merely gaining the memories of a Nascent Soul-stage old monster.


    If it were thetter, he would have had to start learning each skill from scratch, only benefiting from prior experience to avoid unnecessary detours.


    It was akin to the vast sea of knowledge essible on the inte from his pre-reincarnation Earth.


    Even with abundant information avable, mastering any field to its peak often required an entire lifetime of effort, and sess was not guaranteed.


    Master Lihuo upied the fourth position on the Nine Seal Stele, directly behind Lan Chang''an''s third life.


    In essence, it would be more urate to describe this as his "fourth life" rather than his "past life."


    Over the past few days, Lan Chang''an had reflected on the experiences of this fourth life and realized that Master Lihuo''s early years had been unusually smooth!


    Born with heavenly spiritual roots, Master Lihuo''s cultivation path from Qi-Refining to Core Formation had been practically obstacle-free, with almost no bottlenecks to hinder him.


    Such a smooth journey left himcking in hardships and tempering experiences.


    This resulted in limited potential and drive after advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Of course, this might not have been the sole reason for his stagnation.


    The environmental conditions of the Great Qing Eastern Region also yed a significant role.


    After reaching the Nascent Soul Realm, Master Lihuo had chosen to stay within hisfort zone, showing little interest in exploration or expansion.


    Tying his fate to the me Departing Pce of the Liang Kingdom had ultimately restricted his future prospects.


    This reasoning was something Master Lihuo himself surely understood.


    However, having grown up within the me Departing Pce since his youth, he had poured centuries of effort, emotions, and care into the sect. His disciples,panions, and descendants were all deeply intertwined with it.


    Venturing beyond his established domain came with significant risks, not to mention leaving the me Departing Pce vulnerable to decline or even destruction in his absence.


    ...


    "Fortunately, in this life, I have no ns to marry or bear children, nor will I bind myself entirely to any cultivation faction. I have far fewer concerns."


    Lan Chang''an realized that what Master Lihuo hadcked, he possessed in abundance.


    However, Master Lihuo''s unparalleled natural talent and rapid cultivation progress were precisely what Lan Chang''an fell short of.


    In the world of immortal cultivation, there was no such thing as absolute perfection.


    Even powerful Nascent Soul True Monarchs had their limitations and, in certain aspects, might not surpass ordinary cultivators.


    Standing on the shoulders of his "fourth life''s" achievements, Lan Chang''an had a clearer n for his future cultivation path:


    Before the Nascent Soul Realm, he could still make do within the Great Qing Eastern Region.


    After reaching the Nascent Soul Realm, however, if he wished to aim for higher realms, he would need to venture onto a broader stage.


    This was especially true for someone like Lan Chang''an, who was a loose cultivator by origin.


    The fourth-rank spirit veins and the limits of heaven and earth''s fortune in this region imposed natural restrictions, making it extremely difficult for cultivators to break through their upper limits.


    From the memories of his "fourth life," Lan Chang''an now had a clearer understanding of the geography of the Heaven Honoured Continent.


    The previous Great Kun he had lived in was known as the Kun Province.


    His current location was the Qing Province.


    Such names were not unfamiliar to him, as Lan Chang''an had heard simr rumors in his previous life.


    Kun Province and Qing Province were both considered mid-tier regions of the Heaven Honoured Continent.


    In such regions, it was impossible for a cultivator to naturally advance to the Deity Transformation Realm, as fifth-rank spirit veins simply did not exist.


    Even reaching thete Nascent Soul stage required immense luck and fortune.


    The map from his fourth life depicted the Heaven Honoured Continent in a general sense, marking only the locations of a few ancient and prominent great provinces.


    The legendary Central Region was said to be located in the heart of the Heaven Honoured Continent.


    Meanwhile, the Fenghua Province, home to the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty, was situated in the eastern central region of the continent.


    Qing Province was also located in the eastern part of Heaven Honoured, separated from Fenghua Province by two other great provinces.


    On the map, the distance appeared small, but in reality, the journey was unimaginably vast.


    His former Kun Province was not marked on the map, but Lan Chang''an was confident that after reaching the Nascent Soul Realm, finding its location would not be difficult.


    The memories from his fourth life held a wealth of useful information for him.


    For instance, the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Lan Chang''an learned that prior to the war of the Golden Sun''s northern migration, Master Lihuo had sent some of his bloodline descendants to Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Why the Fengyuan Kingdom?


    In Master Lihuo''s understanding, Fengyuan Kingdom''s harsh environment made it unsuitable for cultivation development. Yet, during a demonic invasion, it served as a safe haven.


    Not only was the Fengyuan Kingdom protected by natural barriers, but its impoverishednd also made it unappealing to the Six Demonic Sects.


    By leaving part of his bloodline there, Master Lihuo ensured the continuation of his lineage.


    Of course, some of Master Lihuo''s more exceptional disciples and descendants followed him to the Seven Kingdoms Alliance.


    The Seven Kingdoms Alliance was more prosperous and had greater potential for developmentpared to the few nations under the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Whether for progress or survival, Master Lihuo had madeprehensive ns.


    Additionally, Master Lihuo had hidden supplies to prepare for his descendants.


    Lan Chang''an, however, had no intention of coveting them.


    After all, he had effectively lived through Master Lihuo''s entire life.


    Though the influence of the Nine Seal Stele ensured his original mind remained unaffected, merely granting him the insights into another life, he couldn''t help but feel a certain degree of attachment.


    If the Nine Seal Stelecked this ability, experiencing multiple lifetimes would have long since shattered his psyche, making it impossible to maintain his original spirit.


    "If the Six Demonic Sects threaten the Liang Kingdom, Fengyuan Kingdom could serve as an excellent hiding ce."


    Lan Chang''an nned to include the Fengyuan Kingdom in his fallback strategies.


    After all, even a Nascent Soul-stage old monster from his fourth life had sent his bloodline there to preserve it.


    As for Fengyuan Kingdom''s harsh environment andck of resources, Lan Chang''an wasn''t concerned.


    Over the years, he had umted a substantial fortune, more than sufficient to sustain many years of cultivation needs.


    ...


    Two dayster.


    Lan Chang''an was trying his hand at the art of refining weapons.


    Suddenly, his thoughts shifted, and he took out the Elder''s token from his storage pouch.


    The token glowed faintly with white light, delivering a message.


    "Immortal Tianfeng, gravely injured upon returning?"


    Lan Chang''an paused, his hands stopping mid-task.


    In the war against the demonic invasion, Zhang Tieshan had made significant contributions to Jin Yun Valley.


    Over the past decade, he had in two early Core Formation demonic cultivators, six or seven Fake Dan cultivators, and an equal number of demonic beasts.


    This didn¡¯t even include the demonic cultivators he had repelled or defended against during battles.


    While his achievementscked the legendary aura of crossing realms to kill enemies, his feats of ying those at the same level were still remarkable.


    In truth, demonic cultivators of the same rank were generally stronger than their counterparts from the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    As such, to y a Core Formation-level demonic cultivator on the battlefield was no small aplishment.


    The greater Zhang Tieshan''s contributions, the less pressure on Jin Yun Valley, as fewer fresh disciples had to be sent to the front lines each year.


    This system in the Righteous Dao Alliance was designed to incentivize high-ranking cultivators to fight and kill enemies.


    Moreover, the merits earned on the battlefield could be exchanged for rare resources within the alliance.


    Half an hourter.


    A group of injured Jin Yun Valley cultivators returned to the sect.


    Leading them was Zhang Tieshan.


    Inside the Sect Leader¡¯s Hall.


    Lan Chang''an was the first to see the injured Zhang Tieshan.


    Zhang Tieshan''s face was pale, his aura weak. One of his legs was broken, supported, and nourished by a vine imbued with spiritual energy.


    "Elder Lan, how is Elder Tianfeng''s condition?"


    The sect master of Jin Yun Valley, standing beside Zhang Tieshan, asked with concern.


    Although Zhang Tieshan was only at the early Core Formation stage, hisbat prowess wasparable to that of mid-Core Formation cultivators.


    "His injuries are severe and require immediate treatment, or his Dao foundation may be damaged."


    Lan Chang''an took Zhang Tieshan''s pulse, but a peculiar expression flickered across his face.


    It wasn¡¯t the severity of Zhang Tieshan¡¯s injuries that caught his attention.


    To be sure, the injuries were serious¡ªover a dozen broken bones, severe damage to his internal organs, lingering dark wounds, and even an impact on his dantian.


    However, what truly drew Lan Chang''an''s attention was the subtle and unique aura of a magical treasure hidden within Zhang Tieshan''s body.


    If it had been in the past, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have noticed anything unusual.


    But now, with the insight and perception of a Nascent Soul cultivator, coupled with direct contact via pulse reading, he detected the anomaly.


    As a top-tier third-rank artifact refiner, Lan Chang''an recognized that the aura of this magical treasure was extraordinarily unique, containing a kind of spirituality that far surpassed ordinary treasures.


    Even his famed Barbed Arrows, or the supreme magical treasures of Master Lihuo, paled inparison.


    "Could it be an imitation of a spiritual treasure? Or perhaps a fragment of a spiritual treasure?"


    Based on his current knowledge, Lan Chang''an made an educated guess.


    If it were a genuine spiritual treasure, deliberately concealing its aura, Lan Chang''an''s current perception wouldn¡¯t have been able to detect it at all.


    "Elder Lan, can you ensure that my injuries heal without leavingsting damage? Aside from the sect¡¯s contribution points, I will offer additionalpensation."


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s voice was hoarse as he cupped his hands in respect.


    Lan Chang''an was known for his medical skills, especially in nurturing the body.


    The sect had specifically proposed that high-ranking cultivators returning from the battlefield could request his assistance, with Lan Chang''an receiving sect contributions in return.


    However, Lan Chang''an would only treat the high ranking people with grave injuries, without consuming any lifespan.


    Using these contributions, Lan Chang''an exchanged for resources or posted sect missions, hiring Jin Yun Valley disciples to handle errands for him.


    "It will take at least three months. Once every seven days, I wille to Elder Zhang¡¯s residence for treatment. In addition, I will need the following medicinal herbs..."


    After pondering for a moment, Lan Chang''an outlined a treatment n.


    In truth, he could heal Zhang Tieshan in less than half the time.


    However, three months was a reasonable timeframe for a renowned third-rank healer, ensuring no one would suspect him of hiding his true capabilities.


    "Then I¡¯ll have to trouble Elder Lan. Once I¡¯ve recovered, I will refine your magical treasure for free as thanks."


    A smile appeared on Zhang Tieshan''s face.


    Years ago, when Zhang Tieshan crafted the Barbed Arrows for Lan Chang''an, he had done his utmost. However, the spiritual treasure fragment involved in the process hadn¡¯t been used to its fullest potential.


    Over the years, Zhang Tieshan¡¯s artifact refinement skills had improved. If given another chance, he was confident he could elevate the Barbed Arrows to the level of a superior-grade magical treasure.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "No need. I¡¯m already having difficulty wielding mid-grade magical treasures effectively. Refining it further can wait for the future."


    Lan Chang''an smiled and declined.


    "If Elder Zhang feels indebted, you canpensate me with third-rank materials when the timees."


    "Very well, I¡¯ll follow Elder Lan¡¯s suggestion."


    Zhang Tieshan nodded in agreement, though he found it slightly odd.


    Based on Lan Chang''an''s character, he had always been eager to refine his lifebound magical treasure to the utmost, enhancing his protective means.


    ...


    An agreement was reached.


    That very day, Lan Chang''an visited Zhang Tieshan''s cave dwelling to treat his injuries.


    Once the treatment wasplete, Lan Chang''an would receive a generous amount of sect contribution points, as well as the third-rank treasure material Zhang Tieshan had promised as gratitude.


    After Lan Chang''an left, Zhang Tieshan''s expression turned hesitant.


    "Senior Artifact Spirit, will Lan Chang''an discover your existence while treating my injuries?"


    A voice, ancient and wise yet carrying a childlike tone, responded, "Rest assured. If he were the reincarnation of Yan Doni and as familiar with you as you im, he would have noticed long ago during your frequent close contact over the years."


    The Artifact Spirit paused before continuing, "Based on my observations and analysis, his actions and temperament are vastly different from Yan Doni''s. If he were merely a talented cultivator who practices the Evergreen Technique, he wouldn¡¯t possess such perception or insight."


    "That¡¯s good to hear. Letting him see my cultivation progress and quasi-third-rank body refinement capabilities is of no consequence," Zhang Tieshan said, finally at ease.


    He had sought Lan Chang''an''s help due to the severity of his injuries, fearing they might damage his foundation.


    With his cultivation halfway through the early Core Formation stage, Zhang Tieshan was in a critical period to earn merit andpete for precious resources.


    Once he advanced to the mid-Core Formation stage, his survival on the battlefield would greatly improve. Without interference from a Nascent Soul cultivator, few could threaten his life.


    However, Zhang Tieshan''s impressive performance on the battlefield in recent years had drawn the attention of high-level cultivators from Beast King Valley.


    During histest injury, he had been targeted by ate-third-rank avian demonic beast, whose speed far exceeded his own, nearly costing him his life.


    Fortunately, the Grand Elder of Jin Yun Valley had intervened in time to rescue him.


    Otherwise, Zhang Tieshan might have been forced to reveal the spiritual treasure fragment hidden within him just to save his life.


    Back at Yui Peak''s cave dwelling.


    "Zhang Tieshan''s fortuitous encounters are indeed remarkable. With such progress in cultivation, he must have at least formed a upper-tier Core, which is rare to see for hundreds of years for a low-grade spiritual root," Lan Chang''an mused to himself after the treatment.


    Thanks to the perspective of a Nascent Soul-stage cultivator, Lan Chang''an had gleaned much about Zhang Tieshan''s situation during the treatment.


    He estimated that Zhang Tieshan had a good chance of advancing to the mid-Core Formation stage within twenty years.


    For cultivators with low-grade spiritual roots, progress during the Qi-Refining and Foundation Establishment stages was often excruciatingly slow.


    Before reaching the early Foundation Establishment stage, Zhang Tieshan''s cultivation speed had been noticeably slower than Zhao Siyao''s. However, he began to surpass her in theter stages of Foundation Establishment.


    At the Core Formation stage, the influence of spiritual roots diminished, and the quality of the Core became a significant factor.


    If the quality of the formed Core is poor, like that of Fu Xuemei¡ªeven with her superior earth spiritual root¡ªwould lead to mediocrity in the Core Formation stage.


    Zhang Tieshan had formed his Core roughly eighteen years before Lan Chang''an, and unlike Lan Chang''an, he wasn¡¯t constrained by the time limitations of the Evergreen Technique.


    With his fortuitous encounters andbat prowess, Zhang Tieshan¡¯s journey through the Core Formation stage might be smoother than his earlier cultivation stages.


    ...


    In a sh, three years passed.


    Zhang Tieshan, fully recovered from his injuries, returned to the frontlines two years ago.


    Meanwhile, Zhao Siyao and her disciple Zhao Tan''er had both returned to Jin Yun Valley.


    On this particr day, Lan Chang''an, now 195 years old,pleted his daily cultivation and nourishing routine.


    In the past three years, the purple-robed Daoist''s shadow from the Nine Seal Stele''s fourth life had gradually illuminated small portions.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that it would take a total of twenty years to fully light up the Nascent Soul-stage True Monarch from the fourth life.


    Until he nourished and forged a fourth-rank treasure talisman, this would remain Lan Chang''an''s most powerful trump card.


    "Uncle Lan! We''re here again!"


    In the afternoon, Zhao Tan''er''s crisp, melodious voice rang out from outside Yui Peak.


    "Come in," Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile, stepping out of his cave dwelling.


    Outside the dwelling, there was an artificial pond.


    Lan Chang''an, Zhao Siyao, and Zhao Tan''er sat together in a pavilion by the pond.


    During the war, it was rare for Zhao Siyao and her disciple to be at Jin Yun Valley¡¯s main sect simultaneously.


    Recently, Zhao Tan''er had been visiting Yui Peak asionally, knowing that Lan Chang''an often had free time in the afternoons.


    On the mountain¡¯s summit, the three of them would sometimes enjoy tea, y chess, or sing and drink wine together.


    On fortunate days, Lan Chang''an could even listen to Zhao Siyao y the zither while Zhao Tan''er danced gracefully, creating a harmonious scene of music and performance.


    As a Fake Dan cultivator with a lifespan of over 300 years, Zhao Siyao had developed a hobby in her leisure time: ying the seven-stringed zither.


    Over the decades, her zither skills had reached a masterful level, her melodies bing increasingly ethereal and serene.


    Whenever Lan Chang''an listened to Zhao Siyao''s music, he felt as though he could sense her inner thoughts.


    There was no overwhelming joy, nor much sorrow or regret.


    Yet, when she yed for Lan Chang''an, there was asionally a touch of liveliness in her otherwise tranquil music, or a gentle warmth reminiscent of flowing streams and towering mountains.


    Lan Chang''an enjoyed such moments of simple tranquility.


    Zhao Siyao¡¯s dignified grace and tacit understanding, paired with Zhao Tan''er¡¯s lively and mischievous demeanor, brought Lan Chang''an a rare sense of peace.


    Sometimes, it even felt like they were a family of three.


    Although their gazes asionally met with mutual understanding and a smile, there was no real romantic ambiguity between them.


    Even though Zhao Siyao now appeared around thirty-four or thirty-five, no longer retaining her youthful beauty, she did not end up like Mu Xiuyun in those days¡ªsorrowful and heartbroken, ultimately too weathered to face the man who remained forever untouched by time.


    By avoiding crossing that line, their rtionship remained perfect as it was.


    Lan Chang''an, who had experienced countless wives and concubines in his past lives, deeply understood the sentiment of "If only we had met at the beginning."


    If he and Zhao Siyao were to cross that line, their current harmonious and pleasant rtionship might not endure.


    "Uncle Lan, were you even listening?"


    Zhao Tan''er pouted, lightly tapping her teacup.


    "This is my battle insight after defeating a Core Formation demonic cultivator on the battlefield. You don¡¯t have much experience with same-realmbat, so you must pay close attention!"


    "I¡¯ve already heard it a few times, and I¡¯ve gained quite a bit of insight," Lan Chang''an said with a smile as he exchanged a knowing look with Zhao Siyao.


    Through years of experience, Zhao Tan''er had suffered injuries, in enemies, and honed herbat prowess.


    Perhaps due to her pure-hearted nature, herprehension abilities were excellent, and she had grown rapidly.


    As for her im of defeating a Core Formation demonic cultivator, it was technically true.


    Her opponent had underestimated her and fell victim to her schemes. With the aid of a quasi-third-rank puppet, she had injured them severely enough to force their retreat.


    "Tan''er, when you can defeat Uncle Lan head-on, then you¡¯ll have the qualifications to give him advice," Zhao Siyao teased, knowing Lan Chang''an''s true strength was far beyond what he let on.


    "Ugh! Even if I exhaust myself, I can¡¯t break through that turtle shell of his!"


    Zhao Tan''er¡¯s expression fell as she sulked.


    No matter how confident she felt after improving her techniques and divine abilities, she could never gain the upper hand against Lan Chang''an in sparring.


    Eventually, her stamina would give out, and she¡¯d find herselfpletely overwhelmed.


    Thanks to Zhao Tan''er''s exaggerated tales, Lan Chang''an had earned the nickname "Turtle Immortal" within Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an never refused her requests for sparring, using the opportunity to temper her abilities.


    "Chang''an, I recently heard that you¡¯ve been cklisted and have a bounty on your head in the ck market," Zhao Siyao asked with concern.


    "It¡¯s nothing to worry about," Lan Chang''an replied nonchntly. "Lots of noise, but little action. As long as I don¡¯t recklessly leave Jin Yun Valley, what can the Xie Family of Chen Kingdom do to me?"


    It turned out that the Xie Family, frustrated by the ineffectiveness of their national bounty, had increased the reward and extended it to the ck markets across various cultivation nations.


    Zhao Siyao, preupied with the battlefield, had only recently received this dyed news.


    "Uncle Lan, I heard that Uncle Erqing is nearing his end. His lifespan is almost at its limit. I want to visit him," Zhao Tan''er suggested.


    "Li Congren mentioned in his letter that Li Erqing has forbidden his descendants frompeting for second-rank Life Extension Pills to avoid wasting resources and creating enemies," Lan Chang''an sighed.


    In the two decades since returning to the Liang Kingdom, Lan Chang''an had rarely ventured out, visiting Feiyue Lake only twice.


    Instead, the now white-haired Li Erqing had visited him in Jin Yun Valley several times.


    In recent years, Li Erqing¡¯s health had deteriorated further, and he hadn¡¯t visited again.


    Reflecting on this, Lan Chang''an began to perform a divination.


    "Uncle Lan, you know how to divine fortunes?" Zhao Tan''er¡¯s eyes sparkled with curiosity.


    A few breathster, Lan Chang''an finished his calctions and spoke in a low voice:


    "Li Erqing has about one year of lifespan remaining. He¡¯s currently bedridden."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 282: Third-Rank Profound Water Turtle

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an knew Li Erqing well. Their deep bond allowed him to perform an exceptionally urate and rtively easy divination this time.


    The art of divination required clues and a foundation to base calctions on. If one attempted to divine purely out of thin air, the difficulty would increase dramatically, and the uracy would suffer.


    Certain treasures or high-realm cultivators, through their mastery of concealing techniques, could obscure heavenly secrets, further reducing the sess rate of divination.


    If one recklessly probed the heavenly secrets surrounding a powerful figure, it might even provoke a bacsh, shortening one''s lifespan.


    "Everyone has their fate. For Erqing to live out his full lifespan, spreading his lineage with children and grandchildren in abundance, is no small fortune," Lan Chang''an murmured.


    Though saddened by the news of his friend''s impending death, he wasn¡¯t overwhelmed by grief or regret.


    Li Erqing had risen from the life of a humble farmer and a lowly son-inw to be the Foundation Establishment patriarch of a cultivation family.


    He had enjoyed wealth, sess, and the fulfillment of seeing his descendants grow into aplished individuals.Among the four young cultivators from Hengshui Mansion years ago, Li Erqing had undoubtedly led the mostplete and satisfying life.


    The young marquis, Lin Yi, had perished midway through his cultivation journey.


    As for Zhao Siyao and Lan Chang''an, neither could guarantee they would live to their natural ends in this lifetime.


    Zhao Siyao''s role in defending against the demonic invasion came with immense risk.


    Meanwhile, Lan Chang''an''s cultivation in the Evergreen Technique carried hidden dangers that were likely tied to the ns of the legendary Great Cultivator Yan Doni.


    Additionally, the path to achieving Nascent Soul andter Deity Transformation stages was a treacherous one.


    Even though Lan Chang''an had been steadily building his foundation, critical resources such as fourth-rank spirit veins would still need to be fought for in the future.


    Even someone as careful as him could face cmity and fall midway.


    A few dayster.


    As a junior, Zhao Tan''er set off ahead of Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao to visit Li Erqing at Feiyue Lake.


    As the oldest Foundation Establishment patriarch of Feiyue Lake, Li Erqing¡¯s impending death was a significant matter that would impact both internal affairs and external perceptions.


    The arrival of a Core Formation elder from the sect would serve as a deterrent to any schemers within or outside Feiyue Lake.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    At Jin Yun Valley, the skies above Yui Peak churned with wind and clouds as a massive surge of spiritual energy gathered.


    For a radius of one to two hundred li, the spiritual energy in the heavens and earth grew restless, and an invisible pressure weighed heavily on the disciples within the valley.


    At the center of the vortex of spiritual energy, a brilliant cloud of multicolored light slowly began to take shape.


    "Someone''s breaking through to Core Formation!"


    "It seems there''s a trace of demonic beast energy in this. Whose spiritual pet could it be?"


    "Recently, only Elder Evergreen''s Profound Water Turtle was preparing for Core Formation."


    "If that turtle bes a third-rank Profound Water Turtle, wouldn¡¯t it solidify Elder Evergreen''s title as the Turtle Immortal..."


    The Core Formation phenomenon on Yui Peak sparked much discussion among the disciples.


    A few dayster.


    The multicolored cloud of spiritual energy in the sky continued to expand at a leisurely pace, gradually reaching a radius of two li.


    "As expected of an earth-grade bloodline. Achieving an upper-tier Core seems inevitable," someone remarked, watching the ongoing phenomenon.


    Indeed, for spiritual pets with earth-grade bloodlines, achieving an upper-tier Core was almost guaranteed if sufficient Core Formation resources were provided.


    A full month passed.


    The cloud of spiritual energy had slowly expanded to a radius of four li.


    "Sozy in daily life, and even in forming a Core it''s so slow!"


    Sipping cold tea in the pavilion outside his cave dwelling, Lan Chang''an sighed as he gazed at the phenomenon in the sky.


    He had never witnessed a Core Formation process that progressed so sluggishly.


    "Exactly! Such a waste of the master''s time," piped up the Earth Burrowing Rat, norger than a puppy, lying at Lan Chang''an''s feet. Its voice was youthful as it stared toward the Profound Water Turtle''s closed-door cultivation chamber with a look of shared indignation.


    "Little Mouse, what kind of Core do you think the Profound Water Turtle will form?" Lan Chang''an asked absentmindedly.


    "The big turtle¡¯s pretty dumb. Unlike me, it doesn¡¯t have superior Core Formation items on hand," the Earth Burrowing Rat replied with a thoughtful look, as if giving a serious analysis.


    "It only has the Crystal Condensation Pill you gave it, but the Five Element Earth''s attribute shes with its water and wood attributes, so its effectiveness is poor. Achieving an upper-tier True Dan is almost the limit of the big turtle."


    "Hmm. Among us, the Profound Water Turtle indeed has the worst Core Formation conditions," Lan Chang''an mused, nodding slightly.


    He hadn¡¯t gone out of his way to find top-tier Core Formation items for the Profound Water Turtle.


    Those superior Core Formation items were even rarer than the Crystal Condensation Pill. Lan Chang''an had simply issued a task in the sect to procure an ordinary Wwater-attribute Core Formation item and left it at that.


    Hisck of effort stemmed from a concern that the Profound Water Turtle might form a Core of excessively high quality.


    If it identally achieved an Immortal Golden Dan, it would attract unwanted attention and bring trouble.


    As a long-lived species, the Profound Water Turtle wouldn¡¯t draw much interest at lower realms.


    However, if it achieved a Golden Dan, its vast potential and longevity would make it a natural candidate to be a sect-guarding holy beast.


    It would take at least ate Core Formation-stage cultivator to be worthy ofmanding such a spiritual pet.


    Lan Chang''an himself had already taken considerable risks in concealing his identity when forming his own Immortal Golden Dan in Wangyue Immortal City. He certainly didn¡¯t have the means to obscure the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s existence as well.


    Another ten days passed.


    The multicolored cloud of spiritual energy above Yui Peak expanded to a radius of four and a half li before finally stabilizing.


    "That¡¯s a relief..."


    Lan Chang''an sighed in relief. With its poor Core Formation conditions, the Profound Water Turtle hade dangerously close to forming a Golden Dan.


    He had anticipated that the Xuanmu Vine Gourd might introduce some unpredictable variables, but theckluster performance of the Profound Water Turtle''s Core Formation item, coupled with Five Element Earth''s attribute ipatibility, had ultimately kept it from achieving a Golden Dan.


    A few dayster.


    The vortex of spiritual energy gradually dissipated, and the skies above Yui Peak became serene once more.


    Surrounding the cave-dwelling, rays of multicolored light and clouds of auspicious energy lingered in the air as faint echoes of heavenly music sounded.


    The Profound Water Turtle¡¯s final Core Formation phenomenon didn¡¯t match the grandeur of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Immortal Golden Dan breakthrough, but it surpassed that of the Earth Burrowing Rat back in the day.


    "A Half-Step Golden Dan, still eptable."


    Lan Chang''an exhaled lightly, using his spiritual sense to peer into the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s closed cultivation chamber.


    Within the Profound Water Turtle''s body, a jade-green Core glimmered, adorned with golden crystalline patterns that covered over three-quarters of its surface. The Core exuded a profound and mysterious Dao aura.


    Lan Chang''an realized that the Profound Water Turtle hade precariously close to forming a three-quarters Golden Dan, narrowly avoiding the achievement of an Immortal Golden Dan.


    This result was likely the best-case scenario Lan Chang''an could have hoped for.


    Thanks to his Nascent Soul-stage insight, he knew that for a spiritual beast, achieving a Half-Step Golden Dan or even a true Golden Dan made little difference when facing the final Heart Demon Tribtion during the Nascent Soul tribtion.


    As a long-lived species with solid foundations and exceptional defenses, the Profound Water Turtle would find it rtively easy to break through to higher realms and endure the heavenly tribtions preceding the Heart Demon Tribtion.


    For the Profound Water Turtle, forming a Half-Step Golden Dan instead of a true Golden Dan would have minimal impact on its future ability to assume human form.


    ...


    The Profound Water Turtle''s advancement to a Half-Step Golden Dan caused quite a stir throughout Jin Yun Valley.


    Lan Chang''an, however, opted not to hold a grand Core Formation ceremony. After all, more than half of the sect¡¯s cultivators were stationed on the frontlines of the demonic invasion.


    Even so, many upper-level members of the sect¡ªFake Dan and higher cultivators¡ªcame to offer their congrattions.


    Left with no choice, Lan Chang''an hosted a modest celebratory banquet to entertain the familiar cultivators who came to pay their respects.


    "Congrattions, Immortal Lan, on sessfully raising a third-rank Profound Water Turtle. Truly enviable!"


    "This old man came specifically to marvel at the fortune of the ¡®Turtle Immortal,¡¯" quipped Morning Pill Immortal, the sect¡¯s alchemy elder, as he stroked his beard with a chuckle. Stepping forward, he reached out to touch the turtle¡¯s shell.


    Having advanced to Core Formation, the Profound Water Turtle had grown evenrger, with a shell now spanning over four zhang (roughly 13 meters) in width.


    The turtle, being gentle and docile by nature, showed no displeasure even as the other cultivators came forward to stroke its shell one by one.


    "Haha! Let me bask in the Turtle Immortal''s luck!"


    Following Morning Pill Immortal''s lead, the other guests took turns mimicking him,ughing as they interacted with the enormous turtle.


    Zhao Siyao and her disciple Zhao Tan''er were currently stationed on the frontlines, otherwise Zhao Tan''er would undoubtedly have been the first to pester and y with the Profound Water Turtle.


    Zhang Tieshan and the Jin Yun Valley sect master were also away on the battlefield, leaving the Grand Elder to oversee the sect while recovering from injuries.


    In order to minimize casualties, the sect regrly rotated its cultivators, especially high-ranking ones, to and from the frontlines.


    The Grand Elder himself made an exception by attending the banquet in person.


    As a cultivator of the longevity Dao, the Grand Elder still appeared youthful and energetic despite his white hair. Standing at five feet tall and dressed in simple robes, he looked virtually unchanged from twenty years prior, except for a faint weariness on his face.


    "Immortal Lan, with this Profound Water Turtle, our sect will have another guardian beast for Jin Yun Valley. The turtle is eligible to receive an elder¡¯s stipend from the sect," the Grand Elder said with bright eyes, his admiration and fondness for the turtle clearly visible.


    With its earth-grade bloodline and near-2,000-year lifespan, the Profound Water Turtle was a powerful asset, particrly suited for guarding the sect¡¯s mountain gates.


    During the banquet, the Grand Elder even broke tradition to showcase his culinary skills, preparing several Cloud Crane Chickens, which were eagerly devoured by the guests.


    He personally selected the plumpest chicken and fed it to the Profound Water Turtle.


    In the nearby mountain cave, the Earth Burrowing Rat poked its small head out, staring enviously at the Profound Water Turtle as it enjoyed its feast.


    Drooling and wide-eyed, the rat nced at the scene, feeling a twinge of jealousy.


    Its master had instructed it to stay out of sight during the banquet, so as not to draw unnecessary attention.


    With a conflicted expression, the rat hesitated briefly before retreating into the shadows of the cave.


    After the banquet, the Grand Elder stayed behind to speak privately with Lan Chang''an.


    "If Immortal Lan remains in Jin Yun Valley, the Profound Water Turtle can continue to receive elder-level treatment, with the sect covering its cultivation resources," the Grand Elder suggested, clearly hoping to tie both Lan Chang''an and the Profound Water Turtle more firmly to the sect.


    A third-rank Profound Water Turtle could live for nearly 2,000 years! Even if it failed to reach the fourth rank and transform into a humanoid form, it could still protect the sect for an incredibly long time.


    "I have around a hundred years left in my lifespan," the Grand Elder said solemnly. "Eventually, Jin Yun Valley will rely on Tieshan, Xuanxiao, and Immortal Lan to carry it forward..."


    Lan Chang''an could sense the sincerity in the Grand Elder''s words.


    "The future is uncertain," Lan Chang''an replied tactfully, "but as long as I remain in Jin Yun Valley, the Profound Water Turtle will be here to guard it as well."


    He added with a smile, "Moreover, the Profound Water Turtle has been raised by me since it hatched, over 150 years ago. It has always been by my side, and it wouldn''t adapt to anyone else."


    Hearing this, the Grand Elder nodded in understanding.


    Such spiritual beasts, raised from infancy and bonded over decades, often demonstrated unmatched loyalty¡ªsometimes even surpassing that of disciples or offspring.


    For any outside force to convince the Profound Water Turtle to guard their sect without Lan Chang''an¡¯s involvement would be a near impossibility.


    Of course, there were countless methods of control and envement in the cultivation world.


    However, such forceful measures often backfired. Even if sessful, a spiritual beast coerced into service could rebel at any moment, creating hidden dangers that outweighed the benefits.


    ...


    Half a yearter, Lan Chang''an was nearly 196 years old.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s Profound Water Turtle''s advancement to the third rank caused littlemotion beyond Jin Yun Valley.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The demonic invasion remained the focus of the era, overshadowing all other events.


    One day, Lan Chang''an received a letter from the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    Li Erqing¡¯s life was nearing its end. His lifemp was almost extinguished.


    Lan Chang''an left Yui Peak, riding atop the Profound Water Turtle and meeting up with Zhao Siyao and Zhao Tan''er.


    Thanks to Lan Chang''an¡¯s prior divination, the Zhao duo had adjusted their rotation schedule on the frontlines to ensure they could attend.


    Zhang Tieshan also instructed his disciples to represent him at Li Erqing''s funeral.


    Lan Chang''an and the Zhao master-disciple pair set off early to see Li Erqing onest time.


    Ssh!


    The Profound Water Turtle, now over four zhang wide, carried the three Core Formation cultivators on its back as it flew through the skies, trailing surging blue waves of water light.


    In the eyes of outsiders, Lan Chang''an hadn''t stepped out of Jin Yun Valley for nearly twenty years.


    "Tsk, tsk. The Turtle Immortal is finally willing to leave the Jin Yun Valley mountain gate!"


    "With a third-rank Profound Water Turtle as his bodyguard, his defensive capabilities have greatly increased. Add in the two female Core Formation cultivators apanying him, and it¡¯s no wonder he¡¯s no longer worried about that bounty on his head."


    Some of Jin Yun Valley¡¯s mid- to high-level cultivators watched the trio¡¯s departure with great interest.


    Seatedfortably in the middle of the Profound Water Turtle''s broad back, Lan Chang''an was nked by Zhao Siyao on his left and Zhao Tan''er on his right, both seated about a meter away.


    From a distance, the scene of one man and two women riding the giant turtle looked intimate, as though they were huddled together.


    "Evergreen Immortal is truly blessed. Could it be that he¡¯s taken the Zhao master-disciple pair as his Daopanions and now has two female Core Formation partners?"


    "That¡¯s fate for you! With a third-rank Profound Water Turtle and his rising status, even the Grand Elder is eager to win his favor."


    "Indeed. Just based on the face value of that Profound Water Turtle, any Core Formation female cultivator would dly be his Daopanion. Lan Chang''an might very well be the next Huanglong Immortal!"


    Amidst a mix of admiration, envy, and jealousy, the massive Profound Water Turtle vanished into the clouds, carrying its three passengers toward Feiyue Lake.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 283: Heaven and Earth’s Reincarnation

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an was well aware that owning a earth-grade, third-rank Profound Water Turtle as a mount while still in the early Core Formation stage was somewhat ostentatious.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Typically, cultivators in the early Core Formation stage would have spiritual mounts or pets at most in thete second rank.


    Having a earth-grade, third-rank spiritual pet was generally the mark of cultivators at the mid- tote Core Formation stage.


    And yet, this was already the result of Lan Chang''an deliberately suppressing the Profound Water Turtle''s Core quality.


    The Core Formation phenomenon from before was impossible to fully conceal across the cultivation world. It wasn¡¯t as if he could p a Hundred Illusion Mask on the turtle¡¯s face.


    Zhao Tan''er, being naturally energetic and restless, couldn¡¯t sit still for long.


    After a short while, she began ying on the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s back, poking and prodding at it out of curiosity.


    "Hehe! I¡¯ve watched you grow up, and now I finally get to ride you!"Her bright, lively eyes sparkled with mischief as she stretched out a slender finger and flicked the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s massive head a few times.


    The Profound Water Turtle instinctively shrank its head, a pained expression shing across its face. The memory of being flicked on the head by Zhao Tan¡¯er during its youth was still vivid in its mind.


    But then, it paused.


    The Profound Water Turtle realized that being flicked now didn¡¯t hurt at all. In fact, it felt... ratherfortable.


    It suddenly became aware that it was no longer the soft and vulnerable baby of years past. Its body and head had be far tougher, surpassing its former state by an unimaginable degree.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    The Profound Water Turtle carried the three Core Formation cultivators across the skies, arriving at the shimmering waters of Feiyue Lake.


    Sensing the powerful aura of the third-rank spiritual beast, several streaks of light swiftly emerged from Feiyue Lake to greet them.


    Among those who arrived were Foundation Establishment cultivators and as well as Immortals: two men and two women¡ªMu Jiuan and his wife, Mu Bingyun, and Li Congren.


    "Greetings, Uncle Lan!"


    "Greetings to Grandpa Lan!"


    The four of them bowed respectfully, all addressing Lan Chang''an as a senior. Among them, Li Congren had the lowest seniority.


    Mu Jiuan and his wife were the most powerful, both having achieved Core Formation.


    Mu Jiuan appeared to be a man in his thirties or forties, with a fairplexion, dressed in a dark robe, and slightly overweight.


    The once calm and handsome young man now bore little resemnce to his former self.


    When Lan Chang''an saw him, he nearly didn¡¯t recognize him at first nce.


    "Uncle Lan," Mu Jiuan greeted, lowering his head respectfully. Though his tone was calm, his gaze betrayed a deep and well-hidden reverence.


    Decades ago, the image of Lan Chang''an riding his Profound Water Turtle and single-handedly obliterating an entire squad of scouts from the Feng Kingdom had left asting impression on Mu Jiuan¡¯s heart.


    The gentle and unassuming Uncle Lan had revealed a terrifying side that had forever etched itself into his memory.


    That shocking contrast was something Mu Jiuan would never forget.


    And now, Uncle Lan had reached Core Formation, with even his Profound Water Turtle advancing to the third rank.


    Mu Jiuan had a gut feeling: this deeply hidden Uncle Lan might one day be a legendary figure of the Liang Kingdom, on par with the likes of the famed Huanglong Immortal and the Huang Dragon Beast.


    Lan Chang''an merely gave Mu Jiuan a casual nce. Thetter''s Fake Dan Formation achievement was slightly lower than he had anticipated.


    However, it was Mu Jiuan''s wife, Yu Yufu, who drew Lan Chang''an''s attention for a moment longer.


    Yu Yufu had sessfully formed a True Dan and now appeared to be a beautiful woman in herte twenties or early thirties.


    Her delicate and striking features, coupled with her elegant and refined temperament, gave her a unique presence in her ink-colored, flowing robes.


    Lan Chang''an vaguely remembered that her talent was slightly inferior to Mu Jiuan¡¯s. Yet, in the end, she had surpassed him and formed a True Dan.


    In the cultivation world, fate worked differently for everyone, and with the insight of a Nascent Soul cultivator, Lan Chang''an knew such urrences were not umon.


    "Uncle Lan, I am Yu Yufu, Mu Jiuan''s wife. Thest time I saw you was over a hundred years ago at Wuqi Mountain," Yu Yufu said gracefully, bowing with decorum.


    Worried that Lan Chang''an might not remember her, she introduced herself again.


    Standing before the man who had once stunned her with his grace and elegance, Yu Yufu couldn''t help but feel her emotions ripple slightly.


    Lan Chang''an, tall, handsome, and serene, still resembled a timeless ancient tree¡ªunchanging, steadfast, and quietly magnificent.


    Her husband, on the other hand, was now visibly middle-aged, with faint traces of Fake Dan lifelessness beginning to set in.


    In the cultivation world, second-rank Youth Retaining Pills only worked temporarily, maintaining one''s appearance for a little over a century. If taken toote in life, they couldn¡¯t revert one to their youthful state.


    Back during her visit to Little Turtle Peak, Yu Yufu had been intrigued by the mysterious Lan Chang''an, who as a loose cultivator was raising a earth-grade bloodline Profound Water Turtle. She had suspected he was far from ordinary.


    Unfortunately, her husband had shown little interest in getting closer to Uncle Lan at the time, leaving no further opportunity for deeper interaction.


    After the Golden Sun Sect''s northward migration, Mu Jiuan had confessed to her that Uncle Lan was far more extraordinary than he had initially realized.


    When she pressed him for details, Mu Jiuan refused to say more.


    The surviving members of the Golden Sun Sect had sworn an oath of secrecy, never to speak of what had happened during that shameful incident.


    "Lady Yu, I remember you," Lan Chang''an replied with a slight bow in return, showing due respect to the Core Formation female cultivator.


    He then greeted Li Congren and Mu Bingyun in turn.


    The four before him represented Li Erqing''s son, daughter-inw, grandson, and the Mu family¡¯s main branch.


    The Profound Water Turtlended gracefully on the shimmering surface of Feiyue Lake, gliding effortlessly across the waves.


    Lan Chang''an and the Zhao master-disciple pair sat atop the turtle''s broad back, surrounded by Mu Jiuan and the others, as they made their way to Li Erqing¡¯s cave dwelling.


    Ssh!


    The Profound Water Turtle cast a spell, causing a flower-shaped wave of water about one zhang wide to rise from theke. The water gently carried Mu Bingyun to the turtle¡¯s back.


    "Little Water Turtle..."


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s bright eyes lit up with delight as she stepped onto the turtle¡¯s back, her expression one of genuine joy.


    "Wow, Bingyun! It¡¯s been years, and you seem to have gotten thinner," Zhao Tan''er remarked cheerfully, grabbing Mu Bingyun''s hand and pulling her down to sit beside her.


    Mu Bingyun, dressed in a deep blue robe, appeared to be in her thirties. Her dignified and elegant demeanorplemented her delicate, beautiful features, though she looked slightly more haggard than thest time they had met.


    "Hmm? Bingyun, is that a flower bracelet on your wrist?"


    Zhao Tan''er¡¯s sharp eyes quickly noticed the faintly visible white floral bracelet on Mu Bingyun¡¯s wrist.


    Mu Bingyun¡¯s expression dimmed, and she lowered her head, her voice tinged with sadness. "My Daopanion..."


    As it turned out, Mu Bingyun¡¯s husband, a Golden Sun Sect cultivator, had perished on the frontlines during the demonic invasion.


    This had happened a few years ago, a fact Lan Chang''an had already learned from the letter Mu Bingyun had sent him.


    In the escting war against the demonic forces, such tragedies had be all toomon.


    Widows like Shen Bixin and Mu Bingyun were now an everyday sight across the cultivation world.


    It was precisely this backdrop of chaos and loss that made Li Erqing¡¯s ability to live out his natural lifespan feel like an extraordinary blessing.


    Upon reaching Moonheart Ind, Lan Chang''an instructed the Profound Water Turtle to y in the waters of Feiyue Lake while he and the Zhao master-disciple pair headed straight to Li Erqing¡¯s cave dwelling.


    "Grandpa Lan... Immortal Lan..."


    Inside the cave-dwelling, several of Li Erqing¡¯s descendants surrounded his bedside. Upon seeing Lan Chang''an arrive, they all stepped forward and bowed respectfully.


    On the bedy Li Erqing, his once lively face now withered and covered with age spots. His skin, darkened and wrinkled, was stretched tightly over his gaunt frame.


    Despite being surrounded by his many descendants, Li Erqing''s expression remained indifferent.


    Yet as Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze fell upon the elderly man, he could still faintly make out the contours of the youthful farmer from the past.


    "Big Brother..."


    The moment Li Erqing¡¯s dim and lifeless eyes caught sight of the ageless man in white entering the room, they immediately lit up with a spark of vitality.


    A faint flush crept onto his emaciated face as he weakly raised a trembling, skeletal arm.


    Mu Jiuan gestured for the other descendants to leave the room.


    Even Mu Jiuan, his wife Yu Yufu, Li Congren, and Mu Bingyun quietly stepped out, leaving only Lan Chang''an, Zhao Siyao, and Zhao Tan''er behind.


    "Don¡¯t let your emotions get the better of you¡ªyou still have more than half a month of lifespan left," Lan Chang''an said gently as he grasped the frail, withered hand, channeling his Evergreen Technique¡¯s power to help smooth the old man¡¯s blood flow.


    Upon doing so, Lan Chang''an discovered that Li Erqing¡¯s blood and energy were nearlypletely dried up, his essence almost entirely depleted. The faint flicker of life he clung to was sustained only by the remnant force of his cultivation.


    When one¡¯s lifespan reached its natural limit, no amount of medical expertise could reverse it.


    Despite his deteriorated state, Li Erqing¡¯s stiff face broke into a rare smile. The sight of his yellowed, crooked teeth and sunken cheeks made his expression even uglier than if he were crying.


    Lan Chang''an silently grumbled in his mind. Before you embarked on the path of cultivation, you had a mouthful of yellow teeth. Now, as you near the end of your life, they¡¯re still the same. Not a single change.


    For a moment, he couldn¡¯t help but feel sympathy for the beautiful wives and concubines Li Erqing had taken over the years.


    "Fairy Zhao..."


    Li Erqing¡¯s trembling hand reached out toward Zhao Siyao.


    Perhaps due to his failing eyesight, the thirty-something Zhao Siyao, with her simple attire and faint crow¡¯s feet, blurred in his vision.


    In his eyes, she seemed to transform back into the cold and ethereal Fairy Zhao of his youth, her flowing robes radiating an otherworldly beauty.


    The next moment, her figure changed again¡ªinto the schrly and graceful young woman she had been when they first met.


    "Erqing," Zhao Siyao said softly as she approached, taking his withered hand in hers.


    Li Erqing¡¯s cloudy eyes grew wet, and his frail hand trembled slightly.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Li Erqing¡¯s heartbeat sped up just a little.


    He exchanged a knowing smile with Zhao Siyao.


    Back in their youth, Li Erqing hadn¡¯t been the only one secretly enamored with Fairy Zhao¡ªso had the young marquis, Lin Yi.


    As a mere farmer¡¯s son, Li Erqing had once blushed with joy whenever the refined and schrly Zhao Siyao spared him a nce.


    Zhao Siyao, ever graceful and understanding, had never belittled the shy farmer boy.


    Later, as Zhao Siyao ascended within the sect, bing the unattainable Fairy Zhao, Li Erqing had buried his feelings deep, knowing they were not from the same world.


    Zhao Siyao, with her sharp mind and the keen intuition of a young woman, had been vaguely aware of both Lin Yi¡¯s and Li Erqing¡¯s admiration for her.


    However, the one she had truly taken a liking to¡ªLan Chang''an¡ªhad chosen not to marry or start a family.


    His fleeting romantic encounters over the years had eventually made Zhao Siyao suppress any lingering thoughts.


    "Big Brother, Fairy Zhao... to see you both again before I die, Ergou has no regrets," Li Erqing said weakly, his voice trembling. "It¡¯s a pity... Lin Yi passed away so young, and Lin Lu..."


    That day, the three of them¡ªLan Chang''an, Zhao Siyao, and Li Erqing¡ªtalked for hours.


    Later, Li Erqing referred to himself as "Ergou" (Second Dog), a nickname from his younger days.


    Whether he thought this name change might alter his fortune remained a mystery.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao Siyao went along with it, calling him Ergou, as if they were back in their youth, nearly 180 years ago.


    However, Ergou¡¯s health was in poor condition. After chatting for a while, exhaustion overcame him.


    "Ergou, rest well. Zhao Fairy and I will stay here on Moonheart Ind to apany you on your final journey."


    That day, Lan Chang''an, Zhao Siyao, and Zhao Tan''er moved into the guest courtyard on Moonheart Ind.


    During the times when Li Erqing was feeling better, they met with him a couple more times.


    As the family patriarch, Li Erqing also spent his final days arranging his affairs and passing on instructions to his descendants.


    Half a monthter.


    In the guest room, Lan Chang''an suddenly felt a vague premonition. His gaze instinctively turned toward Li Erqing¡¯s cave dwelling.


    With his heightened senses, he heard the heart-wrenching cries of grief echoing from the cave. The voices were of men, women, young, and old alike.


    Buzz!


    Deep within Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind, the Nine Seal Stele trembled faintly.


    "Eh?"


    Lan Chang''an made a soft sound of surprise as he became aware of an indescribable bond connecting him to the source of the cries in the cave dwelling.


    It felt as though an invisible thread extended between him and Li Erqing¡¯s location.


    Following this mysterious connection, Lan Chang''an¡¯s vision blurred momentarily.


    Above Li Erqing¡¯s cave dwelling, he saw a massive vortex of gray-white mist spiraling in the air.


    The vortex seemed boundless, its depths stretching into infinity, ovepping with the fabric of the cultivation world itself.


    No one else¡ªneither the cultivators of Feiyue Lake nor the Core Formation Immortals¡ªcould see this mysterious vortex of gray mist.


    Within the vortex, Lan Chang''an spotted a fragmented, shadowy soul resembling Li Erqing.


    At its core was a bright spark of sentience, slowly being consumed by the swirling gray mist.


    "Heaven and Earth¡¯s Reincarnation?"


    Lan Chang''an muttered, realizing that the invisible bond connecting him to Li Erqing was tied to that core spark of sentience.


    As the spark was gradually swallowed by the vortex of reincarnation, the bond weakened and began to fade.

 Chapter 284: Mid Third Rank

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    The scene of reincarnation in front of him seemed to belong to another mysterious dimension.


    It appeared to ovep with the cultivation world, yet the beings within¡ªthe mortals and cultivators¡ªremainedpletely unaware of its existence and operation.


    Under the subtle influence of the invisible bond and the Nine Seal Stele, Lan Chang''an sensed this indescribable dimension for the first time.


    Acting instinctively, Lan Chang''an entered the Nine Seal Stele to investigate further. Shortly after, he received a vague, abstract response.


    As it turned out, Lan Chang''an¡¯s karmic connection with Li Erqing in this life had amplified under the power of the Nine Seal Stele, enhancing his perception.


    Following Li Erqing¡¯s death, his soul was destined to enter reincarnation. The power of reincarnation flowing through the heavens and earth had activated the Nine Seal Stele, allowing Lan Chang''an to perceive this bond clearly.


    If fate allows them to meet again in the next life¡­


    Using the Nine Seal Stele as a medium, Lan Chang''an could trace this karmic thread and potentially confirm Li Erqing¡¯s reincarnated identity.If there was sufficient reincarnation energy, he might even be able to help Li Erqing unlock the mysteries of his new life within the womb.


    However, the vastness of heaven and earth made it nearly impossible for two individuals, even with karmic ties, to meet again in the next life.


    As his consciousness returned to reality, Lan Chang''an noticed that Li Erqing¡¯s spiritual light was on the verge of beingpletely devoured by a gray-white vortex.


    ¡°Go!¡±


    Lan Chang''an quickly formed a hand seal and pointed forward.


    Buzz!


    The first life recorded in the Nine Seal Stele dimmed instantly, and the second life lost a tenth of its brilliance.


    A crystalline white rhomboid imprint, smaller than a tadpole, flickered in the void and settled onto the spiritual light of Li Erqing.


    Whoosh!


    In the next moment, Li Erqing¡¯s soul and spiritual light were wholly consumed by the gray-white vortex.


    ¡°A reincarnation mark¡­ left behind as a keepsake.¡±


    Since the fourth life of the Nine Seal Stele had been illuminated, its secrets and mysterious abilities were gradually unraveling before Lan Chang''an.


    When he sought answers or explored unknowns, the Nine Seal Stele would often respond with abstract concepts.


    Starting from the fourth life, the Nine Seal Stele had begun to exhibit genuine reincarnation power through the consumption of powerful souls, such as those at the Nascent Soul level, and special entities like the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu. ??????¨¨£Ó


    This reincarnation power granted Lan Chang''an the ability to initiate a new cycle of reincarnation in three distinct ways.


    In contrast, the first three lives of the stele primarily involved special soul force forms, containing only a trace amount of reincarnation energy.


    The ¡°reincarnation mark¡± he just used was a basic application of reincarnation energy, deployed by consuming the power stored in the first two illuminated lives of the stele.


    Normally, Lan Chang''an would need to physically encounter Li Erqing¡¯s reincarnation to confirm his identity via karmic ties.


    But with the reincarnation mark in ce, Lan Chang''an would now be able to sense Li Erqing¡¯s approximate location if they were within the same general area in the future.


    Lan Chang''an recalled from the fourth life¡¯s True Monarch memories that he had once studied ancient texts regarding reincarnation and rebirth.


    It was said that powerful figures in ancient times could ensure the smooth reincarnation of their Daopanions or disciples, seeking a good family for their rebirth.


    If the individual¡¯s talent in their next life was promising, they could help them rekindle their immortal destiny.


    The Nine Seal Stele possessed a simr capability, but the energy required was significantly greater.


    Master Lihuo of the fourth life had regrets concerning his Daopanions and descendants. While he had attempted to delve into the mysteries of reincarnation, his findings were limited, and he failed to fulfill his wishes.


    From this, Lan Chang''an spected that by the time he reached the Deity Transformation stage, he might begin to uncover the true secrets of reincarnation.


    Top-tier cultivation techniques rted to reincarnation might include crude methods, but the Nine Seal Stele resembled a Xuantian Treasure embodying thews of reincarnation.


    This allowed Lan Chang''an to break through the mysteries of the womb in his first three lives and control his new reincarnations as long as sufficient reincarnation energy was avable.


    ...


    The sound of wailing and crying grew closer.


    Lan Chang''an and Zhao master-disciple pair arrived at Li Erqing¡¯s residence.


    Li Erqing had just passed away, and his body was still warm, not yet stiff.


    Typically, the deceased¡¯s expressions were distorted and grim.


    However, Li Erqing¡¯s face appeared rtively peaceful, with his lips slightly parted.


    After inspecting the body and confirming no abnormalities, Lan Chang''an left the scene with the Zhao master-disciple pair, allowing the deceased to rest in peace.


    In the following days, Feiyue Lake hosted a grand funeral for Ancestor Li Erqing, marked by a celebratory tone.


    Apart from a few direct descendants mourning deeply, the overall atmosphere at Feiyue Lake was not particrly sorrowful.


    In ordance with Li Erqing¡¯s final wishes, his remains were to be buried in the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    Mu Jiuan, who respected his father¡¯s wishes, made the arrangements.


    Mu Jiuan had grown up in Feiyue Lake during his youth, receiving education from the Mu Family. Even his surname had been changed to ¡°Mu,¡± and his mother had also beenid to rest in the Mu Family¡¯s ancestral grounds.


    Thus, burying his parents together seemed only natural.


    However, Li Congren, Li Erqing¡¯s favored grandson, wished to move his grandfather¡¯s remains to the ancestral shrine of the Li Family on Snow Plum Mountain.


    Li Congren was Li Erqing¡¯s most aplished descendant. He had established a new cultivation family in his own name, aiming to pass down the Li Family¡¯s bloodline as a lineage of immortal cultivators.


    ¡°Grandpa Lan, regarding my grandfather¡¯s burial, I humbly ask for your decision,¡± Li Congren pleaded with Lan Chang''an.


    Mu Jiuan rejected this request, citing Li Erqing¡¯s final wishes as his reasoning.


    Lan Chang''an pondered for a moment.


    Li Erqing joined Feiyue Lake as a son-inw and remained steadfast to the end of his life, fulfilling his duties to the utmost.


    When I celebrated my hundredth birthday, he made a solemn promise to me in public and upheld it until the very end.


    In truth, I only asked him a simple question at the time and did not expect or demand such a vow.


    Li Erqing likely feared being looked down upon by his Big Brother and made that promise, even if heter regretted it. Still, he endured it to the very end.


    If he is buried in Feiyue Lake, he will forever carry thebel of a son-inw under the Mu Family¡¯s name, a title not particrly favorable.


    Would he rather be moved to Snow Plum Mountain, to rest beside his beloved grandson and be the founding ancestor of the Li Family¡¯s immortal cultivation lineage?


    The answer was obvious.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was calm as he made his decision.


    ¡°Cremate your grandfather¡¯s remains and divide his ashes into two portions. Bury one portion in Feiyue Lake and the other in Snow Plum Mountain.¡±


    This decision ensured the prevention of corpse transformation, a precaution often taken in the cultivation world.


    Although Lan Chang''an generally avoided interfering in family matters, he made an exception this time, believing this resolution would satisfy Li Erqing¡¯s spirit in the afterlife.


    ¡°Thank you for your wisdom, Grandpa Lan.¡±


    Li Congren¡¯s eyes reddened as he knelt and kowtowed several times before leaving in a hurry.


    Not long after, the Mu Family of Feiyue Lakeplied with Lan Chang''an¡¯s decision, handing over half of the ashes to Li Congren.


    Li Congren was slightly surprised. Mu Jiuan and his wife were both cultivators who had formed their Core and even affiliated with the Golden Sun Sect as high-ranking cultivators. Previously, their attitude had been very firm.


    But as soon as they heard Lan Chang''an¡¯s opinion, they agreed without any resistance.


    ¡°Grandpa Lan¡¯s virtue and reputation are known across the world. Perhaps Uncle Jiuan truly respects him and had no choice but to yield,¡± Li Congren spected.


    Without overthinking it, he attributed the oue to Grandpa Lan¡¯s esteemed character and unmatched prestige.


    ...


    The funeral drew countless guests from all corners of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    Among them, Lan Chang''an met two individuals: Zhou Qingxuan and Qi Feng, the mountain guardian.


    Qi Feng¡¯s presence did not surprise Lan Chang''an. After all, his escort team had past business dealings with the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake.


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s arrival, however, was far more unexpected. As the Grand Elder of the Beast Taming Zhou Family, her rtionship with the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain was amicable. However, the Zhou Family had only a lukewarm rtionship with the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake. Under normal circumstances, sending a Foundation Establishment cultivator to represent her family would have sufficed.


    Zhou Qingxuan had clearly consumed more than one second-rank Youth Retaining Pill. d in her signature pale-yellow long dress, she retained the appearance of a pure, youthful maiden. Her snow-white skin was delicate, her features were exquisitely beautiful, her eyes seemed like painted ink, and her lips were as red as cinnabar.


    At first nce, she even seemed younger than Zhao Tan¡¯er.


    As Zhou Qingxuan sent flirtatious nces toward him, Lan Chang''an remained indifferent. He exchanged a few pleasantries with her and then distanced himself.


    ¡°Hmph! Shameless old vixen!¡±


    Zhao Tan¡¯er, clearly displeased with the woman¡¯s attempts to charm her Uncle Lan, muttered a low insult.


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s heart sank upon hearing the sharp remark. Being mocked by a much younger True Dan female cultivator was not something she took lightly.


    Had it been an ordinary female cultivator, Zhou Qingxuan would have fed her to one of her spirit beasts without hesitation.


    But instead of showing her anger, she let out a delicateugh, her eyes gleaming with amusement. She transmitted her voice directly to Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s mind:


    ¡°Little girl, no matter how sharp your tongue is, this evening, I¡¯ll still be in your Uncle Lan¡¯s bed.¡±


    ¡°Are you jealous that your precious Uncle Lan loves me more? Don¡¯t worry¡ªthis elder sister doesn¡¯t mind sharing him with you. You can join us if you like. Hehe.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ you''re shameless and nasty!¡±


    Zhao Tan¡¯er blushed furiously, her cheeks turning a vibrant red.


    ¡°Ah, how cute you are when you¡¯re angry. But it won¡¯t change the fact that tonight, I¡¯ll be paying your Uncle Lan a visit~¡±


    Seeing Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s flushed and frustrated expression, Zhou Qingxuan felt victorious and left with a smug smile.


    Zhou Qingxuan, after all, was no ordinary Fake Dan cultivator. She controlled a third-rank spirit beast and had little reason to fear a Core Formation female cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s powerful spiritual sense observed the silent exchange between the two women.


    Sensing Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s aggrieved and resentful gaze, he quickly changed the subject.


    ¡°Qi Feng,e over to Grandpa Lan,¡± Lan Chang''an called out.


    In the crowd, a tall, rugged man dressed in leather armor and exuding an aura of calm strengthposed himself and respectfully approached.


    ¡°Qi Feng greets Grandpa Lan!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s personal acknowledgment caused the gathered cultivators, who hade from all across the region, to view Qi Feng in a new light.


    With the legendary third-rank Profound Water Turtle under his control, Lan Chang''an had already transcended the status of an ordinary Core Formation cultivator in the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world. In the eyes of many, his future achievements and position might rival that of the famous Huanglong Immortal.


    Lan Chang''an conversed with Qi Feng for a while, giving him some advice before the crowd.


    ...


    As moonlight bathed the courtyard, Zhou Qingxuan, dressed in a long pale-yellow dress and with her makeup meticulously applied, arrived at Lan Chang''an¡¯s guest courtyard.


    ¡°Sly vixen, you¡¯re not allowed to enter Uncle Lan¡¯s room!¡±


    A crisp voice rang out as radiant light shed across the courtyard gate.


    Blocking Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s path was Zhao Tan¡¯er, now dressed in a multi-colored skirt that entuated her graceful figure. She stood tall, her posture upright, her demeanor unwavering.


    Under the moonlight, Zhao Tan¡¯er looked ethereal, her skin radiant like pearls, her teeth neat like jade, and her clear, spirited eyes shining like twin stars in the night. Her youthful beauty seemed full of vitality, making her captivating and irresistible.


    ¡°Well, well, little handmaiden, it seems you¡¯ve learned how to dress up. Step aside, and don¡¯t disturb this youngdy¡¯s meeting with Big Brother Lan.¡±


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s gaze swept over Zhao Tan¡¯er and lingered for a moment. She had to admit, the younger woman¡¯s appearance tonight was stunning¡ªbrimming with the yful and vibrant charm of youth, an energy that radiated from within.


    Even Zhou Qingxuan, with all her beauty-maintaining pills, could not replicate this natural aura.


    ¡°Tan¡¯er, don''t fool around.¡±


    From within the courtyard came Lan Chang''an¡¯s voice, carrying a slight tone of reproach.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er froze, her long, featheryshes trembling slightly as a sheen of moisture welled in her bright eyes. Her expression of grievance disappeared just as quickly as it appeared.


    Over the years, Zhao Tan¡¯er had always regarded Uncle Lan as a confidant and apanion of her master, if not something closer to a Dao partner.


    Uncle Lan had sparred with her patiently, pointing out her ws. asionally, he would sell her high-quality talismans at cheap prices. Whenever she had personal troubles, she could confide in him, as one would with a trusted friend.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    To bring Uncle Lan joy, she had danced gracefully on Yui Peak, transforming into a butterfly, while her master yed the zither with a smile, creating a scene that felt like a family of three.


    To Zhao Tan¡¯er, Uncle Lan and her master were not officially Dao partners, but their bond exceeded that of mere acquaintances.


    Having grown up without a father, Zhao Tan¡¯er hade to see Uncle Lan as both a mentor and a close friend.


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s sudden appearance filled her with an intense sense of loss and loathing, as though something precious was being taken from her.


    Inside the guest room.


    Despite Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s teasing earlier, no inappropriate actions urred between her and Lan Chang''an.


    After all, the mourning period for Li Erqing had not yet passed, and Zhou Qingxuan understood the importance of propriety during a funeral.


    Her earlier taunts toward Zhao Tan¡¯er had been nothing more than yful jests, prompted by the younger woman¡¯s initial insults.


    However, Zhou Qingxuan did have a matter of importance to discuss with Lan Chang''an.


    Initially, Lan Chang''an listened absentmindedly. But as the conversation progressed, his expression grew serious, and he asionally fell into deep thought.


    ¡°...The benefits promised by that mysterious beast-taming elder are very tempting,¡± Zhou Qingxuan admitted. ¡°But I don¡¯t dare betray the Righteous Dao Alliance so easily.¡±


    It turned out that a senior from the Beast King Valley of Six Demonic Sects had secretly tried to recruit Zhou Qingxuan.


    The elder had demonstrated advanced beast-taming techniques and promised tempting rewards, leaving Zhou Qingxuan conflicted.


    Given Lan Chang''an¡¯s mysterious background and his victory over the Hundred Abodes Soul Gu, Zhou Qingxuan decided to seek his advice.


    ¡°Don¡¯t trust the promises of the demonic sects,¡± Lan Chang''an warned.


    ¡°The Six Demonic Sects¡¯s invasions are far crueler than the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s northern migration war. Surrendering cultivator forces may be temporarily spared, but they are often trampled upon or even annihted after their usefulness ends¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an, with his connections to agents of the Unseen Gate, was well aware of the Six Demonic Sects¡¯s methods. Most forces that surrendered met tragic ends, unless they held exceptional value.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t agreed, but I haven¡¯t refused either,¡± Zhou Qingxuan replied, nodding.


    In the Liang Kingdom, it was likely that the Beast King Valley¡¯s outreach wasn¡¯t limited to the Zhou Family alone. Though the threat of invasion seemed distant for now, no contacted force dared outright reject the demonic sects for fear of provoking their wrath.


    ¡°The elder who contacted you, was he a Core Formation cultivator skilled at manipting hearts?¡± Lan Chang''an asked, a thought crossing his mind.


    ¡°Lan Lang, How did you know?¡± Zhou Qingxuan was taken aback.


    ¡°I¡¯ve met someone like that before, though I can¡¯t confirm it¡¯s the same person,¡± Lan Chang''an replied, recalling his encounter with Huang Lang Immortal of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association at his Core Formation ceremony years ago.


    Afterward, Xing Peng had spected that Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s secret arts originated from the Beast King Valley. The Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association itself was likely a splinter group of the sect.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard the Zhou Family descended from a branch of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association that migrated here years ago,¡± Lan Chang''an noted.


    ¡°Not exactly. An important lineage of my Zhou Family intermarried with a branch of the merchant guild that split off long ago. Over time, we merged into one,¡± Zhou Qingxuan rified, quickly deducing who Lan Chang''an was referring to.


    Knowing the identity of the one who sought to recruit her, Zhou Qingxuan now had a clearer idea of how to respond.


    ¡°Thank you for your guidance, Big Brother Lan. How can I ever repay you?¡± Zhou Qingxuan asked softly, her eyes gleaming with charm.


    ¡°No need for repayment. Let me examine the Gu worm restriction in your sea of consciousness once more,¡± Lan Chang''an replied, cing his palm gently atop her head.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    Lan Chang''an and hispanions departed from the Mu Family of Feiyue Lake atop the massive Profound Water Turtle.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er, however, was visibly upset. She pouted and refused to speak to Lan Chang''an, venting her frustrations by rubbing the turtle¡¯s head with both hands as if trying to relieve her stress.


    The Profound Water Turtle, simple and docile by nature, did not protest. Instead, it seemed to enjoy her attention, remaining content and carefree.


    This trip to Feiyue Lake had been smooth for Lan Chang''an. No unexpected dangers arose, as Feiyue Lake fell within the sphere of influence of Jin Yun Valley.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t traveling alone. With three Core Formation cultivators in hispany, along with the sturdy and durable third-rank Profound Water Turtle, even most high-ranking Core Formation experts would think twice before provoking them.


    Back at Jin Yun Valley.


    Upon returning to his cave abode, Lan Chang''an focused on upgrading his puppets using his skills as a superior-grade third-rank artifact refiner.


    He reinforced keyponents of his two current puppets, such as ws, weapons, and armor, refining these parts to reach genuine magical treasure level.


    These enhancements significantly strengthened the puppets, making them much more formidable. While upgrading them was costly, fully armed third-rank puppets, when controlled by a skilled puppeteer, could match opponents of the same rank.


    Lan Chang''an also continued refining his Barbed Arrow, using his third-rank refining techniques.


    He wasn¡¯t in a rush, taking his time to temper the weapon with the mes of his Core Formation true fire. asionally, he added small amounts of rare materials whenever they matched the magical treasure¡¯s properties.


    A self-refined lifebound magical treasure like the Barbed Arrow consumed less spiritual energy and spiritual sensepared to normal magical treasures.


    For a regr top-grade magical treasure suited for an early Nascent Soul cultivator, someone at Lan Chang''an¡¯s current Core Formation level would struggle to wield it. Even if he managed to activate it a few times, it would quickly deplete his magical power and spiritual sense, rendering it ineffective.


    Fortunately, the Barbed Arrow was a smaller magical treasure and consumed less spiritual energy than others of its level, though it demanded more precise control over spiritual sense.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that once the Barbed Arrow reached superior-grade magical treasure status, its spiritual energy consumption would remainparable to that of a mid-grade magical treasure.


    ...


    Seven yearster.


    In the underground stone hall beneath Yui Peak, 203-year-old Lan Chang''anpleted the crafting of a third-rank archer puppet.


    Archer puppets had always been a specialty of Lan Chang''an.


    Back in his Foundation Establishment days, he had envisioned using arger number of high-quality archer puppets to unleash volleys capable of taking down Core Formation cultivators.


    While such ns had nevere to fruition, the puppets he crafted now, enhanced by his artifact refiner skills, were of superior quality. Among low-grade third-rank puppets, his creations were considered top-notch.


    If not for material limitations, Lan Chang''an might have already advanced to a mid-grade third-rank puppet master.


    His fourth-life memories contained knowledge of higher-tier puppet techniques, including those for crafting quasi-fourth-rank puppets.


    Such puppets approached the strength of Nascent Soul-level cultivators. Puppet-making legacies of this caliber were rare even across the entire Liang Kingdom cultivation world.


    Ironically, this scarcity saved Lan Chang''an both effort and spirit stones¡ªresources he could ill afford to waste.


    Between his expenditures on refining, puppet crafting, and purchasing Life Extension Pills in secret, Lan Chang''an¡¯s reserves of spirit stones had been dwindling rapidly.


    Fortunately, the spoils from killing two Core Formation elders during the Seven Kingdoms Alliance¡¯s conflict years ago had replenished his resources.


    One of the most valuable spoils had been a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator¡¯s bronze mirror magical treasure. As a special magical treasure, it had been added to Lan Chang''an¡¯s personal arsenal.


    Low-quality magical treasures, on the other hand, were either sold or broken down into third-rank material essences.


    From Lan Chang''an¡¯s perspective, his actions during the Seven Kingdoms Alliance conflict were justifiable. Aligned with the me Departing Pce at the time, killing rival Core Formation cultivators carried no personal grievances or moralplications.


    In the cultivation world, just like the conflict between the Six Demonic Sects and the Righteous Dao Alliance, encounters often boiled down to survival¡ªkill or be killed¡ªwith little room for right or wrong.


    Back at his cave abode on Yui Peak, Lan Chang''an received a message about the war from the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    Over the years, the Demonic Path¡¯s Beast King Valley had steadily and systematically eroded the Righteous Dao Alliance¡¯s territory.


    Among the most devastated regions was the cultivation world of Chen Kingdom, now reduced to less than a third of its originalnd. Even the headquarters of the Heavenly Net Sect had been breached.


    Yan Kingdom fared slightly better, retaining about 40% of its territory and holding on to its fourth-rank spiritual veins.


    Fortunately, the Righteous Dao Alliance had received reinforcements from the cultivation forces whose sects had been destroyed and spiritualnds seized by the Demonic Path. Among these reinforcements were several high-level cultivators, including two or three Nascent Soul True Monarchs.


    Even so, Chen Kingdom, as the western frontline, suffered greatly due to its weaker foundation.


    Additionally, the Heavenly Net Sect of Chen Kingdom had a reputation for internal tyranny, which bred resentment and weakened morale against the Demonic Path¡¯s invasion.


    Itsckluster resistance resulted in its swift downfall, marking it as the first major defeat among the Nascent Soul-level sects.


    Lan Chang''an analyzed the situation:


    ¡°If the Chen Kingdom is swallowed, its retreat options will be limited to two directions: eastward to Feng Kingdom or northward to Jing Kingdom.¡±


    ¡°However, the Blood Sword Valley of Feng Kingdom has no love for the Heavenly Net Sect and would be unwilling to cooperate in resisting the Demonic Path. That leaves Jing Kingdom as Chen Kingdom¡¯s only viable retreat route.¡±


    Lan Chang''an himself held no goodwill toward the Heavenly Net Sect.


    Their previous bounty on him was a minor issue. What annoyed him more was their swift copse, which threatened to destabilize the region and drag the Liang Kingdom cultivation world into the war.


    The Jing Kingdom, being a weak point, might be the next battlefield if the Chen Kingdom retreated there. Should that happen, the Demonic Path¡¯s war would draw dangerously close to the Liang Kingdom.


    ¡°Let¡¯s hope the Righteous Dao Alliance can hold out for another decade or two,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    His expectations were modest. He simply needed enough time to ignite the fourth life of his Nine Seal Stele.


    At that point, his ability to protect himself would increase dramatically, allowing him to adapt to the shifting tides of the war.


    By his calctions, he had been cultivating at the Core Formation Realm for about 26 years.


    Reaching the peak of early Core Formation would likely take him a full 60 years, and he was already nearing the halfway mark.


    Though most news from the war was grim, there was a small glimmer of hope: the Earth Burrowing Rat had advanced to mid-third rank.


    This minor breakthrough had urred quietly three years ago when Lan Chang''an used the Beast Taming Zhou Family¡¯s secret base in the ck Fog Mountain Range to let the Earth Burrowing Rat advance.


    With its Half-Step Golden Dan foundation, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s breakthrough was rtively smooth, encountering only minor obstacles.


    Zhou Qingxuan had been shocked to discover the rat¡¯s true cultivation level and swore to keep it a secret.


    She couldn''t figure out how the mutated rat demon caused by the problematic pill she sold to Lan Chang''an back then had be a terrifying Great Demon of the middle third rank.


    For this, Lan Chang''an owed Zhou Qingxuan a favor.


    ...


    The good times didn''tst long.


    Six months afterpleting his third-rank archer puppet, Lan Chang''an experienced a sense of foreboding for the first time.


    During a routine divination, his calctions revealed an omen of minor misfortune.


    Though not as dire as a major misfortune, it still signaled potential danger ahead.


    Could there be risks even while staying within the sect?


    Uncertain about what had gone awry, Lan Chang''an immediately began investigating and recalcting the source of the threat.

 Chapter 285: The Peacock Saintess

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an stepped into the underground stone hall.


    He took out a few ancient copper coins, preparing to fully deduce the source of the impending crisis.


    These coins, imbued with divination properties, could enhance the uracy of his calctions.


    ording to ancient records, the shells of certain turtles, hundreds or even thousands of years old, could amplify the power of divination.


    Some were even said to possess the effect of concealing one''s heavenly secrets.


    At the same time, in a neighboring hall, the Profound Water Turtle shivered uncontrobly, instinctively pulling its head back into its shell.


    ¡°The Beast King Valley?¡±


    Momentster, as the divination concluded, Lan Chang''an frowned slightly.The results were too vague.


    During the era when the Beast King Valley invaded the Righteous Dao Alliance, most dangers faced by cultivators, whether directly or indirectly, were linked to the Beast King Valley.


    When divination produced ambiguous results, it often meant that the matters involved, or the cultivator¡¯s realm, vastly exceeded the diviner¡¯s own skill level.


    But when it came to his own safety, Lan Chang''an had to uncover the truth, no matter how obscure it was.


    The divination shows a minor inauspicious hexagram, it suggested that the danger wasn¡¯t overly severe, with less than a 30% chance of life-threatening peril¡ªtypically closer to 10%.


    But in Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes, even a one-in-a-thousand chance of life-threatening danger had to be taken seriously.


    He performed another divination.


    This time, Lan Chang''an utilized the Zhou Tian Tui Bei Book, and did not hesitate to sacrifice a portion of his lifespan to achieve a more precise reading.


    By shortening one¡¯s lifespan, it was possible to forcibly divine higher-level fates.


    Fortunately, with his long lifespan, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind losing a year or two.


    In the past seven years, he had also obtained a second-rank superior Life Extension Pill, extending his life by nine years. His total lifespan now reached 1,134 years.


    After sacrificing approximately two years of his life, Lan Chang''an obtained a clearer clue from the divination:


    ¡°Profound Water Turtle?¡±


    Lan Chang''an froze for a moment, lost in thought.


    Beast King Valley. Profound Water Turtle.


    These two divination results were enough to lead Lan Chang''an to many possible conclusions.


    ¡°The Beast King Valley, as the ancestors of beast tamers, must have noticed the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s extraordinary growth and its breakthrough to a Half-Step Golden Dan. Perhaps this has piqued the interest of higher-level cultivators in the Beast King Valley.¡±


    It made sense that a high-level beast tamer would take an interest in the Profound Water Turtle.


    Back then, when the Profound Water Turtle was forming its Core, Lan Chang''an had deliberately held it back, trying to reduce potential risks. Yet trouble had still found its way to him.


    The turtle had barely met the most basic conditions for forming its Core and hadcked any high-quality materials or spiritual items for the process.


    If it had managed to form an Immortal Golden Dan...


    Not only would it have attracted the high-level beast tamers of the Beast King Valley, but even the ruling Golden Sun Sect of Liang Kingdom might have taken notice, bringing even more trouble to Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Find out for me which high-level cultivator from the Beast King Valley has set their sights on the Profound Water Turtle.¡±


    Without dy, Lan Chang''an contacted Xing Peng.


    ...


    The next day, Lan Chang''an met with Xing Peng.


    ¡°The Elder Xuan behind me has already advanced to the Nascent Soul Realm and has divined the crisis looming over Lan. It appears that a high-level cultivator from the Beast King Valley has marked me and the Profound Water Turtle...¡±


    ¡°As for the specifics, my authority doesn¡¯t allow me to know the details.¡±


    Xing Peng, upon learning this, was momentarily dumbfounded and had no immediate clue about the situation.


    Xing Peng promised to do his best to help Lan Chang''an investigate.


    Although his rank as an Incense Master limited his ess, Xing Peng had connections through his cousin who might be able to uncover more ssified information.


    Half a monthter, Xing Peng hurriedly reached out to Lan Chang''an with the findings of his investigation.


    ¡°Master Lan, you¡¯ve been ced on the Beast King Valley¡¯s ¡®Special Attention List.¡¯¡±


    Xing Peng¡¯s expression was solemn, his eyes betraying shock.


    ¡°The ¡®Special Attention List¡¯?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a list maintained during the Beast King Valley¡¯s war campaigns. Those on it are gged as high-priority targets for surveince by the Unseen Gate, ensuring they don¡¯t escape before the Beast King Valley invades.¡±


    Xing Peng hesitated, then added cautiously, ¡°When the Beast King Valley eventually reaches the Liang Kingdom... you will likely be one of their key targets for capture or elimination.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart sank as he pieced together the implications.


    Being gged by the Beast King Valley meant that once their forces arrived in the Liang Kingdom, they would actively seek him out. Until then, the Unseen Gate¡¯s agents would ensure he couldn¡¯t flee prematurely.


    ¡°Have you identified the person behind this? Do you know who¡¯s targeting me?¡± Lan Chang''an asked gravely.


    ¡°We¡¯re starting to have leads,¡± Xing Peng replied. ¡°But I¡¯m moving cautiously to avoid alerting the primary suspect. Investigating matters involving high-level beast tamers from the Beast King Valley requires extreme care.¡±


    If the Beast King Valley discovered that Xing Peng was aiding Lan Chang''an and leaking ssified information, his fate would be grim.


    ¡°Good. Take your time, and don¡¯t alert the Beast King Valley.¡±


    For the time being, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t face immediate danger.


    The Beast King Valley would first need to breach the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation realm before they could directly threaten him.


    Lan Chang''an resolved to stick to his original n: avoid battlefields, remain in Jin Yun Valley, focus on cultivation, and quietly build his strength.


    Without the divination, Lan Chang''an might have remained blissfully unaware of the looming threat.


    The Beast King Valley¡¯s Special Attention List was something that Xing Peng, under normal circumstances, wouldn¡¯t have been able to ess.


    Had Lan Chang''an not learned of this danger, any future attempt to escape would have been fraught with peril, almost guaranteeing confrontation with the Beast King Valley.


    Lan Chang''an felt fortunate. Transferring the memories of the Nascent Soul True Monarch had significantly increased his margin for error.


    Even a humble third-rank divination technique had allowed him to prepare for potential threats well in advance.


    ¡°From now on, I need to allocate time to study the art of divination.¡±


    Lan Chang''an made up his mind.


    He already practiced numerous arts, and though his spare time was abundant, his mental and physical energy was ultimately limited. He would need to prioritize.


    The art of divination now took precedence.


    Other pursuits, such as alchemy and artifact crafting, could be set aside if necessary.


    If he couldn¡¯t find a proper talismanic inheritance in the future, even the path of talismans could be relegated to a lower priority.


    ...


    Six monthster.


    After months of careful investigation, Xing Peng finally uncovered the truth.


    ¡°Master Lan, the ¡®Peacock Saintess¡¯ of the Beast King Valley has taken an interest in your Profound Water Turtle and your methods of cultivation. This could spell significant trouble,¡± Xing Peng said, taking a deep breath, a trace of fear flickering in his eyes.


    ¡°Peacock Saintess?¡±


    Lan Chang''an took the jade slip that Xing Peng handed over and reviewed the detailed information.


    Momentster, his expression darkened, his face grim.


    The Peacock Saintess, whose Dao title was Peacock Immortal, was ate-stage Core Formation powerhouse.


    She was one of the top three inheritors in the Beast King Valley¡¯s Nascent Soul cultivation lineage¡ªa prodigy considered one of the sect''s most likely seeds to reach the Nascent Soul Realm.


    The Peacock Saintessmanded two third-rank spirit beasts, one of which was a Five-Colored Peacock with a heavenly-grade bloodline.


    Her Dao title, "Peacock," had a dual significance.


    First, it came from the Five-Colored Peacock, the spirit bird with a heavenly bloodline.


    Second, her beauty rivaled the magnificence of a peacock¡¯s plumage. Her looks were famed across the Six Great Demonic Sects, earning her renown for both elegance and allure.


    Moreover, her background was exceptional¡ªshe was the granddaughter of a Nascent Soul True Monarch. A true darling of Heaven, her noble lineage and extraordinary talent were like a peacock¡¯s noble bearing, radiant and untouchable.


    ¡°She also has a Profound Water Turtle? Male or female?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was icy as he asked the question.


    ¡°It¡¯s female,¡± Xing Peng replied in a low voice. ¡°The Peacock Saintess¡¯s Profound Water Turtle is over two hundred years old. She¡¯s poured significant resources into it, including many rare spiritual treasures, and it only recently reached thete second-rank stage.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s Profound Water Turtle, on the other hand, was male.


    ¡°Two hundred years to reachte second rank. That¡¯s already far faster than the average Profound Water Turtle. Butpared to mine, it¡¯s still a step behind,¡± Lan Chang''an muttered as his eyes flickered with deep thought.


    With his current insights as a Nascent Soul True Monarch, he understood why the Peacock Saintess was interested in his Profound Water Turtle and his cultivation methods.


    The Profound Water Turtle¡¯s natural growth was extremely slow. If one forcefully elerated its growth, it would severely weaken its Foundation Establishment base, which would directly impact the quality of its Core in the future.


    Speed and quality were always at odds, unless one invested rare and priceless heaven and earth spiritual resources.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s Profound Water Turtle not only grew rapidly but also maintained an excellent Core potential without any degradation.


    As a beast-taming expert, the Peacock Saintess, already owning a Profound Water Turtle, would naturally notice this ring disparity and be intrigued.


    One word from her was all it took for Lan Chang''an to end up on the Beast King Valley¡¯s Special Attention List.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been cultivating quietly in the rear guard, my reputation limited to Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation circles. How did the Peacock Saintess even hear about my spiritual pet?¡±


    ¡°Could this have been due to the intelligence provided by the Unseen Gate?¡±


    Lan Chang''an was puzzled. The Peacock Saintess was an elite figure¡ªthere was no reason for her to randomly take notice of him.


    Being targeted by someone like her left Lan Chang''an feeling immense pressure.


    He couldn¡¯t fight her; he couldn¡¯t match her influence or background.


    The Peacock Saintess, also being at a Golden Dan, was at thete stage and far beyond Lan Chang''an¡¯s current strength.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Even their spirit pets couldn¡¯tpare.


    Even if it was a beast of the same bloodline and rank, under the guidance of a beast-taming expert like the Peacock Saintess, its strength would undoubtedly surpass that of Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual pet.


    Amongte-stage Core Formation Great Cultivators, the Peacock Saintess was undoubtedly a top-tier figure.


    In the Righteous Dao Alliance, only someone like Liang Shaotian, who was at the same level, could barely contend with her.


    ...


    ¡°The Unseen Gate only reports intelligence to its upper ranks and never leaks information privately to other sects. That would vite their regtions,¡± Xing Peng exined cautiously.


    ¡°However, during my investigation, I discovered some clues. It appears that the person who informed the Peacock Saintess about your situation might be Huang Lang Immortal of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association.¡±


    ¡°Huang Lang Immortal?¡±


    A sharp light shed in Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes.


    It was most likely this devious merchant.


    Huang Lang Immortal was notorious for his cunning and opportunism, adept at reading people¡¯s minds and exploiting their desires.


    Years ago, after conducting a deal with Fu Xuemei, she mysteriously disappeared.


    Xing Peng had once spected that the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association might be a splinter group formed by certain rogue cultivators from the Beast King Valley.


    This insider knowledge was nearly unknown among the various nations of the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    It wasn¡¯t difficult for Lan Chang''an to imagine that Huang Lang Immortal had sold information about him to the Peacock Saintess, all to curry favor with her and secure a powerful patron within the Beast King Valley.


    Huang Lang Immortal would have reaped great rewards with minimal effort.


    But in doing so, he had brought significant trouble and potential disaster upon Lan Chang''an.


    The minor misfortune revealed by the divination had stemmed directly from this betrayal.


    Huang Lang Immortal!


    Lan Chang''an engraved this name in his memory.


    A mere early-stage True Dan cultivator dared to scheme against him?


    As for the Peacock Saintess, Lan Chang''an knew he couldn¡¯t confront her in the short term. She had yet to take direct action, after all.


    But this treacherous merchant¡ªhe would find a chance to exact revenge.


    If not for his mastery of divination, Lan Chang''an might have already fallen victim to this covert trap.


    ...


    ¡°Master Lan, regarding this matter, I have a suggestion,¡± Xing Peng said hesitantly.


    ¡°Speak.¡±


    Lan Chang''an looked at him with slight surprise.


    ¡°The Peacock Saintess is proud but has a reputation for being honorable within the Six Demonic Sects. If you were to offer her your cultivation methods for the Profound Water Turtle, she would surely reward you. In the future, when the Beast King Valley invades Liang Kingdom, with her protection, you could expect leniency,¡± Xing Peng suggested carefully, bowing as he spoke.


    He was aware that this suggestion might displease Lan Chang''an.


    But the fact was, the Six Demonic Sects would eventually annihte the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Being targeted by the Peacock Saintess, the simplest way for Lan Chang''an to turn this crisis into an opportunity was topromise.


    ¡°You¡¯re suggesting I follow Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s example andtch onto the Peacock Saintess¡¯s coattails?¡± Lan Chang''an asked coldly, staring at him.


    ¡°No¡­ no! That¡¯s not what I meant!¡± Xing Peng stammered, wiping cold sweat from his forehead.


    Lan Chang''an sneered inwardly. You think I don¡¯t want totch onto such a powerful thigh?


    But the circumstances simply didn¡¯t allow it.


    Xing Peng¡¯s suggestion was indeed a highly practical one.


    Not only would it resolve the immediate danger, but it would also secure a powerful ally within the Six Demonic Sects.


    However, the secrets behind the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s cultivation involved both the Evergreen Technique and the Xuanmu Vine Gourd.


    Lan Chang''an had no choice.


    He was destined to stand on the opposing side of the Peacock Saintess and the Beast King Valley.


    In the cultivation world, all disputes ultimately boiled down to a fight over interests¡ªunrted to personal grudges or notions of right and wrong.


    ...


    After uncovering the source of his crisis, Lan Chang''an began preparing two ns to address the situation.


    The first, naturally, was the runaway n.


    This n had long been in preparation, but now Lan Chang''an needed to adjust it to allow for even greater contingencies to handle various unforeseen threats.


    The core of this n remained the same: wait until the Nine Seal Stele illuminated the fourth life. Unless the demonic sects invaded Liang''s Kingdom, this timeline would not change.


    However, Lan Chang''an knew better than to underestimate the top-tier demonic sects of the Great Qing.


    Though Lan Chang''an possessed divination skills, he was certain that there were more formidable divination masters within the Six Sacred Demonic Sects.


    While the Xuanmu Vine Gourd had the property of shielding heavenly secrets, It could only obscure its own position and avoid being deduced by great powers, but it couldn¡¯t shield the karma and grudges tied to Lan Chang''an himself.


    Even the Xuanmu Vine Gourd¡¯s ability to shield heavenly secrets wasn¡¯t invincible.


    If a top-tier cultivator, such as one at the Integration Realm or Mahayana Realm, performed a divination and used rare divination treasures to assist them, it was still possible for traces to be uncovered.


    The second n, retaliate against the Huang Lang Immortal.


    On the surface, Huang Lang Immortal was only an early-stage True Dan cultivator, making him seem like an easy target. The mid-third-rank Earth Burrowing Rat could take him down easily.


    However, Lan Chang''an dismissed the idea of simply killing Huang Lang Immortal outright.


    ¡°Huang Lang Immortal reported my information to the Peacock Saintess. If he dies under mysterious circumstances, it might arouse her suspicions and lead her to connect the dots.¡±


    At present, while the Peacock Saintess had taken notice of him, she didn¡¯t pay special attention to him and viewed him as just a tricky character.


    Lan Chang''an knew better than to escte her interest in him.


    Thus, there were only two safe methods for revenge:


    First, find a scapegoat to take the me for killing Huang Lang Immortal.


    Second, kill Huang Lang Immortal as part of his escape n when the timees.


    However, Lan Chang''an eventually came up with a third, more subtle approach:


    Expose this traitor!


    By revealing Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s status as a spy, Lan Chang''an could ensure that the Righteous Dao Alliance would take action to eliminate him.


    Previously, Huang Lang Immortal had attempted to sway the Beast Taming Zhou Family, demonstrating that he had already aligned himself with the Beast King Valley.


    It was highly likely that simr operations had been carried out with other targets, leaving behind clues and traces of his betrayal.


    Furthermore, the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association had numerous enemies in the Jing Kingdom. The rival factions of the guild, such as the Snow Fox Merchant Association, would likely pounce on any opportunity to bring down Huang Lang Immortal.


    If Huang Lang Immortal made a mistake and exposed himself as an insider for the Beast King Valley, it would be a perfectly natural oue.


    With his n settled, Lan Chang''an decided not to act immediately.


    He resolved to wait two years, allowing suspicion to shift away from himself. In the meantime, he instructed Xing Peng to quietly gather evidence and intelligence against Huang Lang Immortal.


    ...


    Two yearster.


    At the age of 206, nearly 30 years had passed since Lan Chang''an had formed his Golden Dan.


    On this day, deep within the underground stone hall, steam rose from a scalding ck medicinal pool.


    Gurgle! Gurgle!


    Lan Chang''an soaked in the boiling medicinal liquid, his muscles swelling and glistening with a dark bronze hue. Golden, polished scales resembling ornate discs appeared on his skin, emanating a terrifying vitality and physical power.


    ¡°Re-cultivating the Golden Luo Overlord Body to third rank consumes far more precious materials and medicinal resources than the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art¡ªnearly double the cost,¡± Lan Chang''an muttered as his body greedily absorbed the medicinal energy from the pool, feeling a pang of pain in his heart for the expenditure.


    Upgrading to mid-third-rank puppet beasts, switching to a more advanced body-refinement technique¡ªall of these pursuits were insatiable pits that devoured spiritual stones and rare resources.


    The Golden Luo Overlord Body was one of the finest body-refinement techniques from the memories of his fourth life, second only to pure body-cultivation methods.


    This technique wasn¡¯t just 20% stronger than the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art in terms of overall performance¡ªit also came with a unique attribute.


    It granted strong resistance against negative effects, including curses and certain debuffs.


    For example, it could counteract sound wave techniques that caused dizziness or confusion, and freezing spells that slowed a cultivator¡¯s movements drastically.


    The Golden Luo Overlord Body provided significant resistance to these kinds of effects, with immunity to most below the third rank.


    The downside, however, was that the rare materials required for cultivating this technique were twice as expensive as those needed for the Hundred-Refinement Vajra Art.


    Even so, Lan Chang''an felt that it was worth every penny.


    The higher the peak of excellence, the greater the price to advance further¡ªit was never a linear rtionship.


    The unique properties of the Golden Luo Overlord Body greatly enhanced his ability to protect himself.


    ¡°Now that the time is ripe, and I¡¯ve already gathered enough dirt on Huang Lang Immortal and the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association,¡± Lan Chang''an murmured to himself, his gaze sharp.


    With a thought, the shadow of his second life, a peak Core Formation cultivator, descended from the Nine Seal Stele.


    The purple-robed True Monarch''s soul shadow from his fourth life was already more than half illuminated.


    Putting on the Hundred Illusions Mask, Lan Chang''an adjusted his aura to simte ate-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    ...


    In the following two months, Lan Chang''an, disguised as a mysteriouste-stage Core Formation Great Cultivator, executed his calcted n to expose Huang Lang Immortal.


    First, Lan Chang''an traveled to the northern region of Feng Kingdom. At one of the local branches of the Righteous Dao Alliance, he anonymously left a letter of usation with the sitting True Dan cultivator in charge.


    Next, he made his way to the border of Jing Kingdom and left the same letter to Liang Shaotian''s Fake Dan disciple, Lady Wei, at the Immortal City market under the jurisdiction of the Xuan Yin Sect.


    Through Xing Peng, Lan Chang''an had already confirmed that the Xuan Yin Sect had not been sessfully infiltrated by the Unseen Gate and had instead been actively resisting the demonic forces. Thus, he left a simr report for them.


    While the Righteous Dao Alliance as a whole was known for its sluggish bureaucracy due to its multinational nature, the Xuan Yin Sect was highly efficient and strong within the Jing Kingdom.


    Whether it was Liang Shaotian himself or his powerful disciple Li Hai, either of them could easily deal with Huang Lang Immortal.


    Having nted the seeds of his n, Lan Chang''an returned to Jin Yun Valley and waited for the results.


    The n was simple: if it failed, he would lose nothing. But if it seeded, it would be using a borrowed knife to kill and eliminate Huang Lang Immortal.


    In either case, the mysterious cultivator who left behind the reports had no connection to Lan Chang''an himself.


    Having lived through several lifetimes, Lan Chang''an knew all too well that the identity of the whistleblower must be kept absolutely secret.


    Otherwise, what was reported in the morning would reach the ears of the used by nightfall.


    What Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t anticipate was that his seemingly simple n would end up altering the entire course of the demonic invasion war.


    A few monthster.


    News arrived from the frontlines.


    Both the Chen Kingdom and Jing Kingdom had experienced widespread betrayal from within their cultivation forces, with several factions turning against the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Chen Kingdom¡¯s situation was especially dire.


    Multiplete-stage Core Formation cultivators led the rebellion, with two cultivation sects and over a dozen families betraying the alliance simultaneously. These coordinated defections aligned with the invading demonic forces, plunging the Chen Kingdom into near-total copse.


    The Heavenly Net Sect of the Chen Kingdom suffered heavy losses and, following their contingency n, retreated into the cultivation realm of the Jing Kingdom.


    Jing Kingdom had also seen internal betrayal, with factions like the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association among the defectors.


    However, Jing Kingdom¡¯s response was much quicker.


    The Xuan Yin Sect, in particr, struck immediately,unching a decisive assault on the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association.


    Most of the top-level Immortals of the guild were either killed or captured.


    Huang Lang Immortal himself suffered catastrophic losses¡ªhis spirit beasts were all ughtered, and he was gravely injured, losing an arm.


    Ultimately, using a top-grade third-rank escape talisman and secret techniques, he barely managed to flee the carnage. But he was now a fugitive, actively hunted by the Righteous Dao Alliance and other factions.


    ¡°Hmph, scheming against me? Let¡¯s see how it feels to lose everything and spend the rest of your life running for your life,¡± Lan Chang''an sneered when he heard the news.


    Although he hadn¡¯t seeded in killing Huang Lang Immortal outright, the significant blow to the man¡¯s power and status gave Lan Chang''an a sense of satisfaction.


    ording to intelligence from Xing Peng, Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s early exposure had forced the Unseen Gate to act prematurely.


    Normally, their ns would involve carefully cultivatedworks of spies and traitors to maximize their impact. However, due to the sudden exposure of Huang Lang Immortal¡ªwhose connections were wide and unusually active¡ªthe Unseen Gate was forced to trigger their ns ahead of schedule, leading to iplete results.


    Even if Huang Lang Immortal managed to flee into thends of the demonic sects, he would remain a sinner in their eyes for botching the operation. His future prospects were bleak.


    ¡°The Righteous Dao Alliance must have been infiltrated by the Unseen Gate,¡± Lan Chang''an concluded after analyzing the simultaneous outbreaks of betrayal in Chen Kingdom and Jing Kingdom.


    It was likely that his anonymous report to the Righteous Dao Alliance had been intercepted by a mole within the higher ranks. The dy caused by this internal leak had given the demonic sects time to manipte the situation.


    However, what disappointed Lan Chang''an most was the Chen Kingdom.


    The Heavenly Net Sect and the Chen Family had proven themselves deeplypromised by demonic infiltration. Their inefficiency in handling internal rebellion was far worse than that of the Jing Kingdom, despite being a stronger nation on paper.


    With the Chen Kingdom now in enemy hands, the remnants of its cultivation forces had retreated to Jing Kingdom.


    Now, Jing Kingdom¡ªa smaller, weaker nation¡ªhad be the new frontline against the demonic invasion.


    The Heavenly Net Sect, the remnants of the Chen Family, and other survivors from the Chen Kingdom had joined forces with the Xuan Yin Sect, the Jing Kingdom Merchant Alliance, and the other major sects of the Jing Kingdom to resist the demonic tide.


    ¡°The Chen Kingdom haspletely disgraced itself,¡± Lan Chang''an muttered in disappointment.


    The Heavenly Net Sect and the Chen Family were ruthless toward their own people but utterly ipetent in war against external threats. Compared to them, even the much weaker Jing Kingdom had shown greater resolve.


    The loss of the Chen Kingdom meant that Jing Kingdom now bore the brunt of the demonic invasion.


    More importantly, the Jing Kingdom bordered the western frontier of the Liang Kingdom.


    Jin Yun Valley, Lan Chang''an¡¯s current base of operations, was located in Liang Kingdom¡¯s western region¡ªperilously close to the advancing frontlines.


    Lan Chang''an realized with a sinking feeling that the demonic tide was no longer a distant threat.


    The raging wave of destruction would soon reach the borders of the Liang Kingdom, and Jin Yun Valley was directly in its path.

 Chapter 286: Improving Divination Art

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Half a yearter, Lan Chang''an turned 207 years old.


    There were still five years remaining until the fourth life of the Nine Seal Stele was illuminated.


    On this day, within the cave abode on Yui Peak...


    Lan Chang''an was meticulously constructing and perfecting a third-rank talisman array, using a series of treasure talismans as its module.


    Suddenly, he felt a disturbance and turned his gaze toward the eastern skies, beyond the clouds.


    There, arge contingent of Liang Kingdom cultivators passed overhead or lingered near Jin Yun Valley. They arrived in spiritual ships, flying vessels, and streaking magical lights, exuding a myriad of chaotic waves of spiritual power.


    Among these waves, one particrly overwhelming fiery aura stood out. This presence, lofty and detached, lingered above the clouds, overlooking the world below.


    "A Nascent Soul cultivator, the Six Sun True Monarch!"Lan Chang''an briefly extended his spiritual sense and identified the True Monarch''s aura.


    He had not encountered the Six Sun True Monarch in his current life. However, in the fourth life Master Lihuo, he was intimately familiar with this figure.


    Years ago, in a wagered duel before the me Departing Pce, the opponent of Master Lihuo had been none other than the Six Sun True Monarch from the Golden Sun Sect.


    When Master Lihuo was ambushed, the Six Sun True Monarch had shown no mercy. Unleashing his full arsenal of divine techniques and secret arts, he sought to kill Master Lihuo to eliminate future threats.


    Ultimately, Master Lihuo had been forced to burn his own life force and essence blood to perform the "Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique," narrowly escaping death despite sustaining grave injuries.


    The Golden Sun Sect was home to two Nascent Soul True Monarchs: one old and one strong. The Six Sun True Monarch was the younger and more vigorous of the two.


    Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!


    A group of cultivators from the Jin Yun Valley sect flew out from their mountain gate, led by several Immortals, to rendezvous with the Liang Kingdom forces.


    The vast army of Liang Kingdom cultivators was heading toward the Jing Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    Since the Chen Kingdom had fallen to the forces of the demonic path, the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects and cultivation powers had shifted their focus to supporting the Jing Kingdom.


    "If they don''t provide full support today, the demonic path''s battlefield will erupt within the Liang Kingdom tomorrow."


    Lan Chang''an understood the Golden Sun Sect''s strategy.


    In the war against the demonic path, the frontlines had now pushed into the neighboring Jing Kingdom. This naturally caused anxiety among the Liang Kingdom¡¯s sects.


    Rather than let the war spill into their own borders, it was better to give their all in support of the Jing Kingdom and turn it into the most violent battleground.


    Surprisingly, however, the Beast King Valley faction did not advance further after conquering the Chen Kingdom. They did not attack the seemingly weaker Jing Kingdom.


    Instead, the forces of Beast King Valley stationed in the Chen Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world were carefully consolidating their hold over the territory they had seized.


    The Chen Kingdom bordered the western side of the Feng Kingdom. Beast King Valley¡¯s forces watched Feng Kingdom closely, tying up the significant military strength within Feng Kingdom¡¯s hearnd.


    At this moment, the Chen Kingdom was positioned between the Feng Kingdom and Jing Kingdom, like a wedge.


    If the Righteous Dao Alliance dared to act boldly, they couldunch a pincer attack from both sides and threaten the demonic path''s hold in the Chen Kingdom.


    However...


    The topbat strength of the Righteous Dao Alliance was inferior to their enemies, and initiating an offensive carried significant risks.


    After all, they were already being suppressed during defensive battles.


    The main forces of the demonic path continued their southern advance into Yan Kingdom, which bordered the south side of Feng Kingdom.


    If they could conquer Yan Kingdom, the demonic path forces would surround the Feng Kingdom from both the west and south, creating the foundation for arger encirclement.


    ...


    In the following two years, Lan Chang''an dedicated a great deal of effort to improving his art of divination.


    The art of divination, one of the hundred arts of immortal cultivation, was considered a niche field.


    This was primarily because divination not only required innate talent but also consumed a significant amount of mental energy and spiritual focus, often shortening one''s lifespan in the process.


    It was more suited for longevity cultivators who could practice slowly over centuries.


    For those wishing to progress more quickly, diligent practice and constant effort woulde at the cost of their lifespan.


    While divination appeared mysterious and transcendent, allowing one to predict fortunes, misfortunes, and even fate itself, it was often considered impractical.


    Without the right clues or foundations, predictions were prone to inuracy or could lead to misleading feedback.


    Moreover, the results of divination were often vague, providing only a broad direction.


    For example, Lan Chang''an¡¯s earlier "Minor Misfortune" divination only revealed that something rted to Beast King Valley was afoot, without giving him specific details.


    Over two years, Lan Chang''an sacrificed ten years of his lifespan,boring day and night with relentless focus.


    Atst, he managed to elevate his divination art to third-rank mid-grade!


    He discovered that his cultivation technique, Evergreen Technique, provided a distinct advantage in practicing divination.


    The Evergreen Technique''s robust recovery abilities and abundant vitality allowed him to train for longer hours each day.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that sacrificing ten years of his lifespan had yielded results equivalent to at least twenty years for a cultivator of the same rank.


    Moreover, with his long lifespan, losing a decade was far from catastrophic.


    "A third-rank mid-grade level in divination... In the entire Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world, there likely aren''t many who can reach this level," Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    For more mainstream auxiliary disciplines, the third-rank superior grade was generally considered the threshold for being among the best in the Liang Kingdom.


    But divination, being a rare and esoteric field, meant that even third-rank mid-grade could be considered elite.


    This standard was based on the Liang Kingdom¡¯s current power levels under the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s rule.


    During the era of the me Departing Pce, the cultivation world''s overall strength in the Liang Kingdom had been far inferior.


    "Unfortunately, the best talent in the fourth life was artifact refinement. The aptitude for divination was mediocre and relied primarily on a strong soul and cultivation base to forcibly cultivate to the third rank."


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a tinge of regret.


    In truth, the Master Lihuo had achieved remarkable proficiency across many arts, pushing several of them to third rank, which was already considered a sign of great versatility at the Nascent Soul Realm.


    For any single auxiliary skill to reach the fourth rank, it would require an ordinary cultivator to devote their entire life¡¯s effort.


    For those at the Nascent Soul Realm, unless one was a specialist craftsman or possessed extraordinary talent, advancing any skill to fourth rank was nearly impossible.


    Even Master Lihuo¡¯s talent in artifact refinement, whilemendable, fell short of being exceptional.


    ...


    Not long after Lan Chang''an''s divination art was upgraded, Zhao Siyao returned from the frontlines, bearing severe injuries.


    ording to the usual practice, Lan Chang''an treated the injuries of Immortals in exchange for sect contributions.


    Zhao Siyao now looked noticeably older, appearing to be around 37 or 38 years old in mortal terms, on the brink of middle age.


    Her hair was simply tied back, and her attire was in yet elegant. Though her beauty still lingered, fine crow''s feet framed her eyes, hinting at her age. These slight imperfections, however, did nothing to diminish the dignified demeanor of an Immortal.


    This time, upon seeing Zhao Siyao, Lan Chang''an closely observed her face and subtly captured hints of an ominous fate.


    Gazing at the familiar visage of an old friend, he furrowed his brows slightly.


    "Chang''an, are the wrinkles on my face that ugly?" Zhao Siyao asked with a calm expression and a faint smile.


    In truth, with her current wealth, she could afford a second-rank Youth Retaining Pill.


    However, with the war against the demonic path in full swing, both she and her disciple had diverted all their resources toward strengthening their defensive capabilities.


    Moreover, the Youth Retaining Pill only maintained one¡¯s current appearance; itcked the ability to restore youth.


    Several years ago, on her 200th birthday, Lan Chang''an had gifted Zhao Siyao a Youth Retaining Pill.


    She hadn¡¯t used it herself, instead giving it to her disciple, Tan¡¯er, allowing thetter to preserve her youthful appearance for another century.


    "Think no more of it, Siyao. Even if you were covered in wrinkles, it wouldn¡¯t affect the bond we share," Lan Chang''an replied with a faint smile.


    At their age¡ªboth over 200 years old¡ªsuch trivialities as outward appearance held little significance.


    Back at his abode, Lan Chang''an quietly performed a divination for Zhao Siyao to calcte her fortune.


    Because he was well-acquainted with Zhao Siyao and knew much about her, the difficulty of the calction was reduced.


    With his third-rank mid-grade divination skill, predicting the fate of a Fake Dan cultivator wasn¡¯t particrly challenging.


    Momentster, Lan Chang''an concluded his divination and arrived at a result:


    An omen of moderate misfortune.


    The specific hexagram indicated that within two to three years, or at most ten years, Zhao Siyao would face a life-or-death tribtion.


    Moderate misfortune implied a 40-60% probability of life-threatening danger. This probability is already considered rtively high.


    The clues pointed toward her fate being tied to the war against the demonic path, which was unsurprising.


    Inside his cave abode, Lan Chang''an pondered in silence for a long time.


    ording to the principles of divination:


    When dealing with major karmic events, such as life and death, he could not directly and explicitly warn Zhao Siyao. Revealing too much would trigger karmic bacsh, affecting his own fate and fortune in the future.


    This was why, throughout the history of the cultivation world, wise individuals¡ªeven those with extraordinary divination skills¡ªrarely revealed the secrets of heaven lightly.


    Of course, the degree of bacsh depended on various factors: the scale of the event, the level of karma involved, and the cultivator''s realm.


    For instance, if Lan Chang''an were to warn an ordinary Qi-Refining cultivator of an impending life-or-death tribtion, thereby altering their fate, the karmic bacsh for him as a Core Formation cultivator with third-rank divination skills would be negligible.


    After all, in his eyes, Qi-Refining cultivators were no different from ants, so how much karma could be involved in changing their fate?


    ...


    A few dayster, Lan Chang''an visited Zhao Siyao''s cave abode.


    The two chatted for a long time.


    "Siyao, there''s something I need to inform you of in advance," Lan Chang''an said after careful consideration.


    "Inform me in advance?" Zhao Siyao smiled faintly, her lips curving into a knowing arc. "Chang''an, are you nning on running away?"


    Lan Chang''an''s expression froze.


    Holy shit!


    The meticulously prepared n to run away, when did it leak?


    However, considering Zhao Siyao was his closest and most trusted confidante in this life, Lan Chang''an felt slightly relieved.


    "Yes," he admitted after some thought. "In about three years, I n to leave the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world to avoid the war with the demonic path."


    ording to his original n, Lan Chang''an hadn''t intended to flee so soon.


    Judging from the current situation, Beast King Valley and the demonic path forces wouldn¡¯t invade the Liang Kingdom for at least another decade.


    However, being targeted by the "Peacock Saintess" meant Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t afford to wait until Beast King Valley reached the Liang Kingdom.


    By then, the risk of escaping would multiply several times over.


    Leaving now, while the demonic path forces were still separated by the Feng and Jing Kingdoms, minimized the immediate threats to him.


    "Oh? So you n to take me with you?" Zhao Siyao immediately grasped his intention.


    "Yes, just think of it as an outing," Lan Chang''an replied, careful not to reveal his destination.


    He had a mental map of Fengyuan Kingdom, a ce the fourth life Master Lihuo had visited 200 years ago.


    "Thank you for your kind intentions, Chang''an, but I cannot leave Jin Yun Valley," Zhao Siyao said with a gentle smile, her gaze clear and resolute.


    "I am merely a Fake Dan cultivator who has already lived for over 200 years. To fight for the sect and defend against the invasion of the demonic path¡ªwhy should I fear death?"


    Lan Chang''an fell silent, understanding her stance.


    She had cultivated and grown in Jin Yun Valley for nearly two centuries. Such deep ties were not easily severed.


    Her disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er, shared a simr connection to the sect.


    Moreover, who was Lan Chang''an to Zhao Siyao?


    He had no formal rtionship with her¡ªnot as a Daopanion, nor as someone who could ask her to forsake two centuries of attachment to follow him to foreignnds.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s role in her life was limited to being an old friend, and he had already said all he could.


    With Zhao Siyao¡¯s intelligence, she likely understood his unspoken warning. As someone aware of his divination abilities, she had likely noticed the abnormality in his behavior today and could guess what he was trying to imply.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Zhao Siyao left Jin Yun Valley and headed to the frontlines of the battlefield.


    As Lan Chang''an watched her familiar silhouette fade into the distance, he secretly formed a hand seal. Through the Nine Seal Stele, he imprinted a reincarnation mark onto Zhao Siyao''s soul.


    At the very least, he was certain that anyone below the Nascent Soul Realm would be unable to detect the presence of this mark.


    Since she had not perished and entered the cycle of reincarnation, Lan Chang''an could not sense her soul light. However, as long as her soul was not utterly obliterated, the reincarnation mark would remain effective.


    Of course, this was only a contingency n for the worst-case scenario.


    In the art of divination, there was no such thing as 100% uracy.


    Who dares to say that they could control the future destiny?


    Even the greatest cultivators with near-godly abilities could not do so.


    In the realm of divination, even a hexagram foretelling major misfortune could turn into a blessing.


    Before Zhao Siyao''s departure, Lan Chang''an made a trade with her.


    At a discounted "friendship price," he sold her a quasi-third-rank puppet, along with a few third-rank talismans.


    Zhao Siyao had previously given herst quasi-third-rank puppet to her disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er, but it had been destroyed on the battlefield.


    In this new transaction, Zhao Siyao''s spiritual stones werepletely drained, forcing her to pay for part of the deal with materials instead.


    Additionally, Lan Chang''an included a third-rank mid-grade Escape Talisman, one of superior quality, in the puppet.


    This was the best talisman he had drawn in recent years, limited only by theck of materials required for third-rank superior-grade talismans. It was second only to his strongest talismans, such as the Treasure Talismans and the Minor Teleportation Talisman.


    However, Lan Chang''an refrained from selling her a third-rank puppet.


    First, Zhao Siyao simply could not afford it.


    Second, she would not be able to wield its full power effectively, and without a third-rank escape talisman to protect her, such a puppet would be impractical for survival.


    What¡¯s more, if the Righteous Dao Alliance learned that she possessed a third-rank puppet, they might send her to battle against a True Dan cultivator, increasing her risk unnecessarily.


    In the cultivation world, the principle of ¡°those with greater ability take on more responsibility¡± was very much alive withinrge organizations.


    ...


    Everything that needed to be said had been said, and everything that could be done had been done.


    There were now less than three years left until the illumination of his fourth life.


    For the next two to three years, Lan Chang''an focused on preparing for his escape n.


    He sold off useless magical treasures and various spoils of war, using the funds to purchase the supplies he would need.


    The Fengyuan Kingdom, his nned destination, was vastparable in size to the Feng Kingdom¡ªand home to ancient Nascent Soul-level powers. However, its resources were sparse, withrge expanses of desert and barrennd.


    The harsh environment of the Fengyuan Kingdom was particrly suited for earth-element cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an guessed that his Earth Burrowing Rat would thrive in such an environment, like a fish in water.


    However, both he and his Profound Water Turtle would probably be a bit disoriented.


    The spiritual veins of the Fengyuan Kingdom were more abundant in earth-elemental energy, while other types of spiritual energy were rtively weaker.


    For his cultivation at the Core Formation stage, a low-grade third-rank spiritual vein in the Liang Kingdom was sufficient.


    But in the Fengyuan Kingdom, cultivating with a low-grade third-rank vein would require significantly more time. To maintain afortable cultivation pace, a mid-grade third-rank vein would be preferable.


    Thus, Lan Chang''an needed to stock up on supplies, including pills, nts, and water-elemental materials topensate for the spiritual imbnce.


    That said, not all resources were scarce in the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Its abundant mineral deposits and crafting materials were even cheaper therepared to those in thends governed by the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Lan Chang''an nned to use these resources to advance to a third-rank mid-grade puppet master, and stockpile a significant number of powerful puppets.


    While stockpiling the materials, despite selling many items, Lan Chang''an¡¯s reserves of spiritual stones plummeted.


    From a peak of several hundred thousand spiritual stones, his wealth dwindled to just over a hundred thousand.


    However, he was confident that after arriving in Fengyuan Kingdom, his low-cost purchases and high-value sales would allow him to recoup much of his funds.


    ...


    Two yearster.


    Lan Chang''an was now 210 years old.


    There was only one year left until the illumination of his fourth life.


    The purple-robed True Monarch¡¯s phantom image from his fourth life now only had its feet left to be illuminated.


    Over the past two years, Lan Chang''an hadpleted most of his material preparations.


    At the same time, he made proper arrangements for Xing Peng and Zhou Qingxuan.


    Both of their seas of consciousness were resealed with an upgraded version of the Gu God Seal.


    With Lan Chang''an¡¯s understanding as a Nascent Soul-level cultivator, his current Gu God Seal was something that not many early-stage Nascent Soul cultivators could undo.


    The restrictions in the seas of consciousness for Xing Peng and Zhou Qingxuan each had different decryption keys.


    Lan Chang''an handed the stabilization method for Xing Peng¡¯s restriction to Zhou Qingxuan.


    In the future, Xing Peng would report to Zhou Qingxuan, ensuring he remained under control.


    If the restriction wasn¡¯t stabilized for over three years, it would activate, causing Xing Peng¡¯s sea of consciousness to wither and copse, leading to his death.


    As for Zhou Qingxuan, her restriction required stabilization once every ten years.


    Every decade, Zhou Qingxuan would need to travel to the border of the Fengyuan Kingdom, where Lan Chang''an could remotely perform the spell to stabilize her restriction.


    Zhou Qingxuan was delighted by this arrangement.


    With ess to the intelligence of the Unseen Gate, the Zhou family would have no trouble surviving theing waves of demonic chaos.


    In this way, Lan Chang''an ensured the bnce of power between the two while repaying Zhou Qingxuan for the favor she had done for him in the past.


    ...


    Thest six months before fleeing.


    Lan Chang''an still had a significant amount of sect contribution points left in Jin Yun Valley¡ªmost of which he had umted over the years through drawing talismans and healing injuries. The quantity was substantial.


    "Forget it."


    Lan Chang''an only redeemed the resources he absolutely needed, leaving the majority of his contributions untouched on his Elder''s token.


    Although he couldn¡¯t provide life-saving aid to the sect, he also had no intention of further draining Jin Yun Valley¡¯s resources during such a time of scarcity.


    For the past two decades, Jin Yun Valley had treated him quite well.


    Running away was already a dishonorable act.


    Before leaving, Lan Chang''an decided to repay their kindness in his own way.


    He recorded the general information about a key demonic infiltrator operating within the Jin Yun Valley forces onto a jade slip.


    He deliberately avoided revealing too many details or writing an overly specific description, lest it implicate Xing Peng.


    Even so, this critical piece of intelligence would likely allow Jin Yun Valley to avoid significant losses in the future.


    Once Lan Chang''an was gone for half a year, a corresponding transmission talisman would activate in the cave abodes of Zhang Tieshan and the Zhao master-disciple pair. The talisman would guide them to the jade slip¡¯s location.


    ...


    After enduring the final months of waiting, Lan Chang''an suddenly felt a subtle sensation in his heart. His consciousness entered the Nine Seal Stele.


    The purple-robed Daoist phantom from his fourth life was now fully illuminated, emanating a terrifying and awe-inspiring spiritual aura.


    Lan Chang''an felt an overwhelming sense of oppression, as though facing the spiritual pressure of a Nascent Soul cultivator¡¯s soul body.


    Other than the absence of Nascent Soul-level magical power, the soul aura of this phantom was indistinguishable from that of an actual Nascent Soul cultivator.


    This was an incredibly powerful trump card, one that could only be activated once every twenty years.


    Not only could it massively boost his abilities inbat and divine arts, but it could also enhance his proficiency in divination, artifact crafting, and talisman creation.


    Perhaps it could even allow Lan Chang''an to pretend to be a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    However, he wasn¡¯t certain whether the Hundred Illusions Mask could sessfully simte a Nascent Soul-level identity. That would require further testing.


    His fourth reincarnation seal being fully lit, Lan Chang''an felt a deep sense of relief and security.


    He performed a divination for himself once more.


    Staying in Jin Yun Valley: Minor Misfortune. Traveling to Fengyuan Kingdom: Fortune outweighs Misfortune.


    Lan Chang''an nodded to himself. His decision to flee appeared to be the correct one overall.


    It was entirely normal for the hexagram to not show an outright good fortune.


    The current chaos in the world made cross-border escape inherently risky¡ªsmooth sailing was impossible to guarantee.


    Before leaving the Liang Kingdom.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Lan Chang''an met with Xing Peng onest time.


    Within the Jin Yun Valley territory, in Zijing Immortal City.


    "Master Lan, here is thetest intelligence on Huang Lang Immortal," said Xing Peng, dressed in a gray-white robe, as he respectfully handed over a jade slip.


    After reviewing the information, Lan Chang''an chuckled dryly.


    "So, Huang Lang Immortal suffered such serious injuries and still managed to escape? It seems he¡¯s quite adept at running. To think he¡¯s survived this long despite being hunted by the Righteous Dao Alliance."


    ording to the Unseen Gate''s intelligence, Huang Lang Immortal had fled to the region between the Jing and Liang Kingdoms, near the edge of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    The reason he had survived for so long was that a branch leader of the Unseen Gate had been secretly providing him with warnings and support.


    "Hmm¡­ That¡¯s along the way," Lan Chang''an mused.


    The Fengyuan Kingdom was vast, and traveling north from either the Liang or Jing Kingdoms would lead there.


    Lan Chang''an nned to use the Unseen Gate''s intelligencework and his own divination skills to locate and eliminate Huang Lang Immortal.


    Huang Lang Immortal was a notorious figure in the Jing Kingdom, infamous for his deceitful business practices. As the president of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, he was obscenely wealthy.


    Killing him would not only avenge past grievances but also allow Lan Chang''an to seize a significant amount of ill-gotten wealth.


    Additionally, there would be no shortage of scapegoats to take the me for his death.


    Rumors suggested that Huang Lang Immortal had paid a heavy price to escape the encirclement. He was said to be carrying part of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association¡¯s treasure trove, including several rare beast eggs and other valuable inheritances.


    Lan Chang''an had little reason to pass up such an opportunity.

 Chapter 287: Killing and Running

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    The battlefield of Yan Kingdom.


    The Yanqing Immortal City, nestled deep within a massive mountain range, was shrouded in the protective glow of a fourth-rank Formation.


    ck clouds pressed down on the city, as if signaling its imminent copse. An endless sea of demonic cultivators marched forward, apanied by massive spirit ships, ferocious beasts, and soaring birds, creating an oppressive atmosphere that made one¡¯s scalp tingle.


    Demon Kings asrge as mountains exhaled ck mist, their roars thunderous and earth-shaking, as they relentlessly assaulted the city''s defensive formation with overwhelming power.


    Zzzzt! Boom!


    The fourth-rank Formation crackled, releasing chains of lightning as thick as bowls that struck the flying beasts in the sky. The resulting dazzling web of lightning enveloped a dense cluster of demonic cultivators, apanied by deafening thunderps.


    While the formation¡¯s thunderbolts left charred ck marks on the massive bodies of the fourth-rank Demon Kings, it only managed to slow their attacks temporarily.


    To alleviate the pressure on the city¡¯s defensive formation, the Righteous Dao Alliance dispatched numerous cultivators outside the city walls to intercept the Demon Kings, high-level demonic cultivators, and the spirit ships carrying artillery.¡°ckfish Immortal! Using superior numbers to bully the weak¡ªis that all you¡¯re capable of?¡±


    Zhao Tan¡¯er shouted in defiance, controlling her magical treasure as she fought and retreated at the same time.


    ¡°Hah! Little girl, once I capture you alive, we can have a proper one-on-one ¡®battle¡¯!¡±


    A ck-robed youth at the Core Formation Realm grinned wickedly. His massive ck-leaf magical treasure spun at high speed, releasing waves of ck light des that shed toward the retreating Zhao Tan¡¯er.


    Hovering above ckfish Immortal¡¯s head was a plump ckfish, a quasi-third-rank spiritual pet the size of a whale, emanating waves of dark water.


    Adding to the threat, an elderly man with a darkplexion¡ªanother Fake Dan Formation cultivator¡ªcontrolled a blood-colored sail magical treasure and joined in the pursuit of Zhao Tan¡¯er.


    ¡°Lin Hei! What are you dawdling for? Hurry up!¡±


    ckfish Immortal barked an order.


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    The dark-faced old man responded respectfully. Scarlet light surged around him, boosting his speed as he chased after Zhao Tan¡¯er.


    As he gazed at the fleeing figure of the woman he once knew, the old man suppressed the emotions that stirred in his heart.


    ¡°Lin Hei?¡±


    Zhao Tan¡¯er nced at the dark-faced elder, finding his weathered features vaguely familiar.


    ¡°Tan¡¯er, let me help you!¡±


    Zhao Siyao flew out from within the immortal city to assist her disciple.


    She controlled a quasi-third-rank puppet, using it to block the massive ckfish. At the same time, she activated a quasi-third-rank talisman andunched it at the dark-faced old man.


    With her master¡¯s intervention, Zhao Tan¡¯er felt the pressure ease and quickly retreated near the city walls to regroup with her.


    Fearing the city''s formation restrictions, ckfish Immortal refrained from advancing further. He retreated with his plump ckfish and "Lin Hei" in tow, searching for other targets instead.


    ¡°Master, that old man just now looked a bit like Lin Lu,¡± Zhao Tan¡¯er said hesitantly.


    ¡°Lin Lu? The battlefield is chaotic, Tan¡¯er. You must have seen wrong,¡± Zhao Siyao replied, though she hadn¡¯t gotten a good look at the old man¡¯s face. However, based on his techniques, he was clearly from the Demonic Dao.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er also felt it was unlikely.


    But the "Lin Hei" who had been pursuing her earlier seemed oddly hesitant¡ªhis attacks, though fierce in appearance,cked true killing intent.


    ¡°In the future, if you encounter such situations, you must flee immediately. Do not engage in entanglements,¡± Zhao Siyao advised sternly.


    ¡°Understood, Master! I didn¡¯t expect that ckfish Immortal to y dirty, calling in reinforcements midway. His spiritual pet also recovered from its injuries so quickly.¡±


    ¡°As long as you understand. If you ever face mortal danger, don¡¯t hesitate to use the special escape talisman I gave you,¡± Zhao Siyao said with a nod.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er, as a True Dan cultivator and a young, beautiful woman, faced far greater threats and dangers in her encounters with the Demonic Dao than her master did.


    Because of this, Zhao Siyao had entrusted her with a special high-quality mid-third-rank escape talisman to protect her life.


    As a Fake Dan Formation cultivator, Zhao Siyao mostly faced opponents at the Fake Dan orte Foundation Establishment stages, making her challenges somewhat easier to handle.


    Half a dayter, the Beast King Valley forces paused their assault.


    The Zhao master-disciple duo finally breathed a sigh of relief and returned to the immortal city protected by the formation.


    As she gazed at the oppressive demonic army looming outside, Zhao Siyao looked weary and sighed deeply.


    ¡°I thought that with the Chen Kingdom overrun and the Demonic Dao gaining a new foothold, the pressure here in Yan Kingdom would ease somewhat¡­¡±


    ...


    Five or six dayster.


    Lan Chang''an arrived at the border of Jing Kingdom, entering the Lonely Sun Immortal City.


    Sixty years ago, Lan Chang''an had smuggled himself into Jing Kingdom aboard an cross-border spiritual ship. His first stop back then had been this very city.


    This time, Lan Chang''an disguised himself as an elderly Fake Dan cultivator in a straw raincoat. While purchasing resources within the immortal city, he also gathered intelligence on Jing Kingdom''s war situation.


    ¡°How odd. The Beast King Valley conquered the Chen Kingdom years ago, yet they only re menacingly at Jing Kingdom withoutunching an attack, even though it seems vulnerable,¡± Lan Chang''an thought to himself.


    Before leaving Jin Yun Valley, he had learned that the Demonic Dao forces were focusing their assault on Yan Kingdom.


    In contrast, Feng Kingdom¡¯s western front and Jing Kingdom were currently experiencing only minor skirmishes between scouts and spies.


    In truth, Jing Kingdom¡¯s defenses were not weak.


    The major factions in the Jing Kingdom, including the Xuan Yin Sect and the Heavenly Net Sect, had joined forces and mentally prepared themselves for an invasion. Yet, no major assault had urred thus far.


    Lan Chang''an had once wondered if the demonic forces were wary of the famed child of fortune from years past that had gone out of the Jing Kingdom.


    That Chosen had left Jing Kingdom to join an ancient sect in the vast Great Qing Central Region. However, even someone of such prominence couldn¡¯t interfere much in the face of the overwhelming tide of demonic forces.


    The Six Demonic Sects and the Ten Sects of the Xuan Gate were all top-tier forces in the Great Qing.


    The eastward expansion of the Six Demonic Sects had been the result of apromise between the two sides after a great war.


    During his brief stay in Lonely Sun Immortal City, Lan Chang''an adopted multiple identities to purchase more supplies.


    Due to the war, the price of many goods skyrocketed.


    However, certain resources scarce in Fengyuan Kingdom were worth buying even at inted prices since they would still turn a profit there.


    Afterpleting his purchases, Lan Chang''an¡¯s remaining spirit stones dwindled to less than a hundred thousand.


    Leaving Lonely Sun Immortal City, he flew northward.


    To avoid unnecessaryplications, Lan Chang''an chose not to visit Hanyu Immortal for a Dao discussion during his trip in Jing Kingdom this time.


    In times of war, the chances of encountering high-level cultivators along the road were much greater.


    Lan Chang''an summoned his peak Core Formation second life to merge with his current self.


    With his now powerful spiritual sense, he could detect and avoid high-level cultivators in advance.


    ...


    Two dayster, Lan Chang''an arrived at the northern border of Jing Kingdom, near the edge of the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    ¡°ording to my calctions, the target is within a thousand-li radius,¡± he muttered.


    Based on the intelligence he had gathered, Lan Chang''an narrowed down the possible location where Huang Lang Immortal was hiding.


    When it came to divination, obtaining precise answers required certain preconditions¡ªreliable clues, causal connections, and sometimes even a medium tied to the target.


    If Huang Lang Immortal had been a stranger¡ªa True Dan cultivator Lan Chang''an had never interacted with before¡ªthe difficulty of the divination would have been far greater.


    But Lan Chang''an shared a long andplicated history with this crafty merchant.


    Years ago, under the guise of Xiang Immortal, Lan Chang''an had killed Huxiao Immortal of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association, thus forming a grudge with Huang Lang Immortal.


    Some years ago, Huang Lang Immortal had reported Lan Chang''an¡¯s whereabouts and his association with the Profound Water Turtle to the Peacock Saintess, effectively putting the turtle in grave danger.


    In retaliation, Lan Chang''an exposed Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s activities, resulting in the man¡¯s family being ruined and forcing him into a life on the run.


    With this deeply intertwined web of karmic ties, coupled with information provided by Unseen Gate, Lan Chang''an faced much less resistance during his divinations.


    ¡°Huh! He¡¯s hiding in a newly constructed mid-tier market behind the Xuan Yin Sect¡¯s defensive lines,¡± Lan Chang''an eximed.


    After days of painstaking effort and losing several months of his lifespan to the toll of repeated divinations, Lan Chang''an finally pinpointed Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s hiding spot.


    Divination was a taxing skill¡ªdraining mental energy, spiritual focus, and even life essence. The more precise the results, the greater the cost.


    ¡°Doni Market?¡±


    ¡°A new market built by the Xuan Yin Sect near the ck Fog Mountain Range. Its geographic location is simr to the Huanglong Immortal City in the Liang Kingdom. They¡¯re nning to expand it into a full-fledged immortal city in the future, but they currentlyck the resources¡­¡±


    Standing ten li outside Doni Market, Lan Chang''an gathered more detailed intelligence. His expression grew peculiar.


    The market¡¯s name was probably chosen by Liang Shaotian himself.


    After observing for half a day, Lan Chang''an noted that the market¡¯s most powerful overseer was merely a Fake Dan female cultivator. The rest of the administrators on the surface didn¡¯t exceed the Fake Dan level either.


    The female Fake Dan cultivator was someone Lan Chang''an recognized¡ªLady Wei, Liang Shaotian¡¯s disciple, whom he had encountered during an exploration of the ancient ruin.


    As for Huang Lang Immortal, he had disguised himself as a yellow-faced old woman at the ninth level of the Qi-Refining stage, blending into the loose cultivator district of the market.


    His disguise was exceptionally clever. For anyone belowte Core Formation, his true identity was nearly impossible to detect.


    Unfortunately for him, he had crossed paths with Lan Chang''an.


    Now with his second life fully merged, Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual sense far surpassed thete Core Formation stage, making it easy for him to see through Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s ruse.


    ¡°Hiding among the dregs of a market to recover from his injuries?¡±


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t have the luxury of time to wait for Huang Lang Immortal to leave the market before making his move.


    With no formidable opponents in the market, there was no need for caution.


    Lan Chang''an devised a n to let the rat burrow underground and secretly poison the area. He would then enter the market, using illusions and spiritual sense attacks inbination with overt and covert assaults to capture his target.


    With a spiritual sense exceeding the peak of Core Formation, his illusionary techniques would easily overwhelm Huang Lang Immortal, even if thetter possessed a third-rank soul artifact.


    ...


    Doni Market.


    On North Street, amidst the crowded alleys of the loose cultivator district, the disguised Huang Lang Immortal¡ªposing as an old yellow-faced crone¡ªfelt a sudden twitch in his eyelids.


    A strange buzzing sound, like the chirping of cicadas, echoed faintly in his mind.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Another crisis?¡±


    Heart pounding, Huang Lang Immortal hurriedly retreated to his residence.


    The moment he sat down, the sharp, piercing chirp of the cicada in his mind reached a crescendo¡ªthen suddenly fell silent.


    ¡°The Life-Warning Cicada is dead! This is bad¡ª¡±


    Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s face turned deathly pale, his voice trembling. The shrewd and calcting glint in his eyes gave way to raw terror.


    In his sea of consciousness, a translucent green cicaday motionless, its limbs stiff and belly up¡ªit had just died an abrupt and unnatural death.


    The Life-Warning Cicada was a rare, earth-grade spirit insect with nobat abilities.


    Its sole purpose was to inhabit its master¡¯s sea of consciousness, acting as an early-warning system for impending danger. The stronger the threat, the more frantic the cicada¡¯s cries would be.


    For the Life-Warning Cicada to die screaming, the impending crisis had to be cataclysmic¡ªessentially a death sentence.


    Realizing this, Huang Lang Immortal understood that Doni Market was no longer safe. A powerful high-level cultivator was about toe for his life.


    ¡°Run!¡±


    Without hesitation, Huang Lang Immortal stomped on the floor, smashing through it and descending into a hidden underground tunnel.


    All that remained in the room was a lingering trace of his yellow-faced crone disguise.


    The tunnel was one he had prepared long ago, using a second-rank Pangolin Spirit Beast to dig a passage leading outside the market.


    The underground defensive formations of Doni Market were rtively weak. Six months ago, he had discovered a w in the array and sessfully exploited it.


    Half an hourter, Huang Lang Immortal emerged in a forest a hundred li outside Doni Market.


    ...


    Whew!


    Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s face was drenched in sweat as he cautiously scanned his surroundings, his breathing uneven.


    A hundred years ago, he had narrowly escaped a life-and-death crisis thanks to the desperate warnings of his Life-Warning Cicada, and he had narrowly dodged a bullet by quickly changing his location.


    ¡°Hopefully, my luck will hold out this time as well¡­¡± he muttered, his heart heavy with dread.


    Suddenly, he felt a faint fluctuation of magical energy in the air. The third-rank soul artifact on his body immediately emitted a warning.


    ¡°Ahh¡­!¡±


    A sharp, searing pain erupted in his sea of consciousness, as though countless knives were slicing through his mind. The spiritual light of his soul artifact dimmed instantly, losing all power to resist.


    This level of soul attack could onlye from a high-level secret art, likely from ate Core Formation cultivator or higher.


    Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s heart sank to the depths of despair. His soul was gravely injured, but he barely managed to remain conscious.


    Boom!


    The ground beneath his feet copsed into a swamp-like mire, dragging his body downward as if trying to swallow him whole.


    At the critical moment, Huang Lang Immortal unleashed a desperate burst of Core energy, propelling himself upward like an arrow, narrowly escaping the mire¡¯s clutches.


    Crack!


    Just as he rose into the air, a serpent-like stream of mud shot up from the swamp, coiling around his legs and viciously biting into his flesh. With a horrifying crunch, both of his lower legs were torn off at the knees.


    ¡°Whoever this senior is, please spare me!¡± Huang Lang Immortal screamed hoarsely, his eyes bloodshot with terror.


    To think that a proudte Core Formation cultivator ambushed a weakened early Core Formation cultivator like him.


    The first wave of attacks had left him with a heavily injured soul and crippled legs, plunging him into a death trap he had no hope of escaping.


    ¡°Tsk, tsk¡­ Treacherous old Huang, even you have a day like this?¡±


    A low, mocking chuckle echoed from above the trees.


    A burly masked man, asrge as a bear, appeared above him, blocking his path.


    "Treacherous old Huang"¡ªthat was the nickname Huang Lang Immortal had earned in the circles of the Merchant Alliance. His yellow, pomelo-like skin, signature leather coat, and sly, calcting personality had earned him a reputation as a master maniptor who had conned countless merchant guilds.


    The burly man descended like a beast, charging directly at Huang Lang Immortal.


    Bang!


    A massive iron fist, glowing with golden runes, mmed into the protective barrier Huang Lang Immortal had hastily activated, shattering it instantly.


    ¡°Third-rank body refinement¡­ Who are you!?¡± Huang Lang Immortal spat out a mouthful of blood as his body was sent flying.


    Before he could react, the swamp below surged again, forming a massive earthen w that swiped at him with brutal force.


    Desperately, Huang Lang Immortal pped three third-rank defensive talismans in quick session. Layers of protective light flickered into existence around him but were shattered one after another in mere moments.


    Even his injured quasi-third-rank pet¡ªa python demon he had kept in reserve for emergencies¡ªemerged from its spiritual pet bag only to be instantly devoured by the expanding mire.


    Finally, the burly man¡¯s iron fist crashed into Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s chest, shattering his ribcage and sending him hurtling into the swamp below.


    ¡°Ahh! Xiang Jinglong, is it you? Why¡­ Why do you want me dead!?¡±


    Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s voice was a mix of panic and despair, his mind spiraling into chaos as he shouted in agony.


    The masked man attacking him wasn¡¯t ate Core Formation cultivator as he had initially feared, but his third-rank Body Refining strength was still terrifying.


    In this region, there was only one cultivator known to have reached this level of body refinement¡ªXiang Jinglong, a renowned elder of the Xuan Yin Sect.


    ¡°Xiang Jinglong does not owe you an exnation for his actions,¡± the burly man said arrogantly, his voice dripping with disdain.


    He made no attempt to silence Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s cries, seemingly unconcerned about being overheard by nearby cultivators.


    Squelch!


    The swamp surged again,pletely swallowing Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s shattered body, leaving no trace of him behind.


    ¡°Capture!¡±


    Lan Chang''an, standing above the trees, formed a hand seal. The wondrous artifact on his wrist¡ªthe "Soul-Nurturing Bracelet"¡ªflew out, releasing a translucent green light that radiated in all directions.


    The faint remnants of Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s shattered soul were pulled into the artifact, which quickly sealed them within a specially prepared jade box. Lan Chang''an then secured the box with a sealing talisman.


    Squeak, squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat soon emerged from the swamp, scurrying back with a storage pouch, a spiritual pet pouch, and other items in its mouth. Its small eyes glimmered with excitement as it handed the spoils to Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Lan Chang''an said calmly, storing the Earth Burrowing Rat in his pet bag. He then ascended into the sky, flying high above the clouds into the Nine Fiery Heavens.


    The battle near the market had not gone unnoticed.


    From the perspectives of the surrounding cultivators, a burly masked man, exuding terrifying vitality and blood energy, had killed Huang Lang Immortal in a decisive ambush before quickly vanishing.


    ¡°A third-rank body refining expert? Could that have been Elder Xiang Jinglong from the Xuan Yin Sect?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that Elder Xiang participated in the siege against the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association. Could the man just killed be Huang Lang Immortal?¡±


    ¡°Old Huang? I heard that he was carrying the enormous wealth of the Ten Thousand Beasts Merchant Association?¡±


    ¡°Tsk, tsk¡­ Elder Xiang must have made a killing this time. Since we¡¯re all from the Xuan Yin Sect, maybe we can pay him a visit to im a reward¡­¡±


    ¡­


    Seven days ago.


    In the northern Liang Kingdom, at Wuqi Mountain¡ª


    That night, Little Turtle Peak, one of the three main peaks of the mountain, was eerily silent.


    The mountain guardian, Qi Feng, who had been meditating, inexplicably fell into a deep sleep.


    A delicate jade hand pressed against the crown of Qi Feng''s head.


    A faint, otherworldly fragrance filled the air. A young woman in a flowing multicolored feathered robe hovered half a foot above the ground. She appeared to be only seventeen or eighteen years old, with eyes as bright and radiant as moonlight.


    Her figure and appearance could only be described as peerless¡ªelegant, cold, and breathtakingly stunning. Her every movement exuded an aura of nobility and untouchable beauty.


    Her bare, jade-like feet were adorned with one gold and one silver anklet, adding a faint sense of otherworldly charm and danger to her ethereal presence.


    ¡°Saintess, it would be best not to kill this man. Otherwise, it might introduce unforeseenplications,¡± rasped an elderly voice.


    Beside the multicolored feather-robed woman stood a hunched old man leaning on a staff. His voice was hoarse, yet respectful.


    The young woman, the Peacock Saintess, said nothing, her expression calm and aloof. Momentster, she ended her soul-searching technique and murmured thoughtfully:


    ¡°In recent years, Lan Chang''an has note to Wuqi Mountain. This Qi Feng fellow has only exchanged a few letters with him.¡±


    As she spoke, she retrieved two letters from Qi Feng¡¯s storage pouch. Both were written by Lan Chang''an, giving them to the old man beside her to use as medium for his craft.


    The hunched old man, his face as withered as dead wood, tremblingly took out an ancient tortoiseshell fragment and a pointer-like bamboo stick.


    After a long period of divination, the old man let out a muffled groan, blood seeping from the corners of his mouth. His face grew even paler.


    The bamboo pointer spun midair before falling to the ground, eventually pointing in a direction slightly northwest.


    ¡°That direction... the associated trigrams suggest the Beast Taming Zhou Family and the Xuan Yin Sect¡¯s territory,¡± the old man said, coughing up more blood as his aura became chaotic.


    ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard, Old Shi. Who would have thought that this brat carried a wondrous artifact capable of shielding him from divination?¡±


    The Peacock Saintess¡¯s voice was melodious, like the chime of a bell, yet it carried a mysterious, otherworldly resonance, like a sound echoing from the depths of the sea.


    ¡°You were wise, Saintess, to anticipate his escape and have me begin divining in advance. If he reaches Fengyuan Kingdom, with its vast and boundless deserts, tracking him down will be like searching for a needle in the sand. Even the forces of the Sacred Sect won¡¯t be able to reach him there.


    ¡°Moreover, the ¡®Heavenly Master¡¯ of Fengyuan Kingdom is mysterious and unfathomable. He is said to be a master of divination and fate maniption. If we get too close to his territory, we might alert him.¡±


    Old Shi¡¯s tone was amiable, but his heart was dripping blood.


    Performing divinations for the Saintess had drained his energy and life force significantly. He didn¡¯t know how much lifespan he¡¯d already sacrificed.


    Shi Lao, a mid-Core Formation cultivator with superior third-rank divination art was considered one of the top experts within Beast King Valley. His skill in divination was unparalleled below the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Despite his feeble, elderly appearance, he was actually less than 300 years old¡ªa period considered the prime of life for a cultivator of his level.


    But the art of divination was a high-risk profession, known for elerating aging and draining lifespan.


    When cultivators of vastly higher status or power came knocking, refusing their requests was simply not an option.


    Shi Lao belonged to one of Beast King Valley¡¯s affiliated forces and wouldn¡¯t dare defy the Peacock Saintess, especially since she had promised generous rewards and offered to look after his faction¡¯s disciples and descendants.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Old Shi. Lan Chang''an must be intercepted before he reaches Fengyuan Kingdom,¡± said the Peacock Saintess with a faint smile. Her graceful demeanor was a perfect blend of saintly purity and alluring charm.


    Even the well-traveled Shi Lao found himself momentarily dazed by her presence.


    Years ago, Huang Lang Immortal had provided the Peacock Saintess with information about Lan Chang''an.


    Later, the Saintess purchased even more detailed intelligence about him from the Unseen Gate.


    Having learned that Lan Chang''an had once fled from Liang Kingdom, she had proactively asked Shi Lao¡¯s help to divine his movements.


    Shi Lao¡¯s initial divination results were clear:


    Lan Chang''an would run, and he would run early.


    This startled the Peacock Saintess.


    The divinations suggested that his likely destination was the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    However, when Shi Lao attempted to divine the exact route he would take, he encountered invisible resistance.


    There were two possibilities:


    First, Lan Chang''an himself was third-rank in divination art, with a fate far moreplex than the average person, making him difficult to predict.


    Second, Lan Chang''an possessed a wondrous artifact that could shield him from divination.


    The second possibility was moremon in the cultivation world.


    It was unlikely that Lan Chang''an, within just one or two centuries, could have advanced both his talismanic arts and divination to third rank or higher.


    Because of this resistance, while Shi Lao could deduce the general direction, pinpointing Lan Chang''an¡¯s exact location required sacrificing more of his lifespan.


    Wuqi Mountain, the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain, and the Beast Taming Zhou Family were all possible ces Lan Chang''an might pass through on his way to Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Had Lan Chang''an not gone to kill Huang Lang Immortal, he likely would have passed through one of these areas.


    ...


    ¡°The new divination rules out the Li Family of Snow Plum Mountain,¡± Shi Lao said weakly, leaning heavily on his staff as he swallowed several pills to restore his energy and mental rity.


    ¡°Next up is the Beast Taming Zhou Family. If we rule them out, and I gain more medium information, I¡¯ll be able to confirm Lan Chang''an¡¯s general route to Fengyuan Kingdom.¡±


    ¡°Very well. When the timees, I¡¯ll ask for your help onest time. Regardless of the oue, I¡¯ll ensure you¡¯re wellpensated,¡± the Peacock Saintess promised.


    She could tell Shi Lao was already reaching his limits. If he pushed himself any further, it might very well cost him his life.


    Shi Lao was the most skilled diviner she could mobilize within the Sacred Sect¡¯s reach.


    Among the Beast King Valley¡¯s forces, only the mid-Nascent Soul Great Elder had stronger divination abilities, barely reaching the threshold of fourth-rank divination. But the Great Elder was stationed in the rear to oversee strategic nning, and even Nascent Soul elders rarely dared ask him to perform divinations due to the lifespan cost.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the northern Jing Kingdom, within a cave in the ck Fog Mountain Range¡ª


    Lan Chang''an calmly sorted through the spoils of his swift assassination of Huang Lang Immortal.


    ¡°Three Beautifying Pills, one set of Crystal Condensation Pill main ingredients, two Core Formation spirit items¡­¡±


    ¡°Dozens of second- and third-rank beast pills and beast fodder. Two Sha Yuan Pills. Over a dozen beast-taming inheritance jade slips¡­¡±


    ¡°More than 100,000 spirit stones, dozens of spirit beast cubs, and over a hundred rare bird and beast eggs¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an chuckled softly. ¡°What a rich swindler. His wealth surpasses most Core Formation cultivators.¡±


    As he searched Huang Lang Immortal¡¯s remnant soul, Lan Chang''an suddenly frowned.


    ¡°Damn it, this swindler handed over such detailed information about me to the Peacock Saintess!¡±


    A vague sense of unease stirred in his heart.


    Performing a quick divination, his face darkened.


    ¡°The Peacock Saintess has figured out that I n to flee. She¡¯s enlisted a divination master to track me.¡±n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression grew cold.


    That divination master was clearly more skilled than him; otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have sensed this only now.


    ¡°Go, Fengyuan Kingdom!¡±


    Transforming into a streak of light, Lan Chang''an shot into the skies, using a mid-third-rank treasure talisman to boost his speed to nearte-Core Formation levels.


    ...


    Following the ancient ck Blood Road, Lan Chang''an traversed the ck Fog Mountain Range.


    Two dayster, he slowed down as the mountains gave way to an endless desert.


    The howling wind and rising sand began to hinder his spiritual sense and flight speed.


    Suddenly, he felt something unusual.


    A crisp and melodious bird cry rang out!


    In the distant clouds, a graceful and majestic five-colored peacock spread its wings, its massive form casting a shadow over the horizon.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 288: The Peacock’s Wings Clipped

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    ¡°Five-Colored Peacock.¡±


    The moment his senses captured it, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but be mesmerized by the sheer splendor and vibrant beauty of the spirit beast¡ªa Five-Colored Peacock.


    But in the next instant, his expression darkened. He quickly realized that the Peacock Saintess was likely nearby.


    Lan Chang''an activated an escape talisman, attempting to elerate his speed and circle around the Five-Colored Peacock.


    However, avian creatures were naturally gifted with extraordinary sensory abilities. The Five-Colored Peacock detected Lan Chang''an almost simultaneously, letting out a sharp screech.


    Whoosh!


    The peacock¡¯s radiant plumage red up, transforming into a dazzling cascade of multicolored light that shot toward Lan Chang''an with terrifying speed.


    ¡°Too fast!¡±ncing back, Lan Chang''an¡¯s face turned grim. Even with the enhancement of his treasure talisman, which pushed his speed to that of ate-stage Core Formation cultivator, the Five-Colored Peacock easily closed the gap.


    Speed was the innate advantage of avian creatures.


    What¡¯s more, this Five-Colored Peacock possessed an iparably rare heavenly bloodline!


    ording to ancient legends, the true Five-Colored Peacock was one of the Primordial True Spirits of the world. The one before him, while not a genuine True Spirit, bore traces of its diluted bloodline. Its five-colored feathers bore an uncanny resemnce to the legendary beast, though it was, in truth, a pseudo-Five-Colored Peacock.


    As the gap between them narrowed, the spirit beast cubs Lan Chang''an carried with him began to tremble uncontrobly. They seemed to instinctively sense the oppressive might of the peacock¡¯s noble bloodline.


    Even the Profound Water Turtle and the Earth Burrowing Rat were not spared.


    Some of the lower-level spirit beast cubs he had obtained from Huang Lang Immortal directly fainted from sheer terror.


    Whizz!


    A streak of multicolored light¡ªvivid and piercing¡ªshot toward Lan Chang''an from six or seven li away, locking onto him with unerring precision.


    A long-range strike?


    Sensing the dangerous aura approaching, Lan Chang''an immediately activated his protective shield and pped a low-grade third-rank defensive talisman onto himself.


    With twoyers of defense in ce, he summoned a silver-gray treasure ruler that expanded several zhang in length under the wind. Its dazzling radiance surged as it moved to intercept the multicolored beam head-on.


    This treasure ruler was something Lan Chang''an had acquired from Tan Immortal during the ancient ruins exploration. After achieving third-rank artifact crafting, Lan Chang''an had further refined it, boosting its power and tweaking its appearance.


    However, what happened next left him stunned.


    Poof!


    The immense treasure ruler, which radiated an aura of overwhelming power, dimmed and lost its luster the moment it came into contact with the multicolored beam. It shrank back to its miniature form and fell powerlessly from the sky.


    ¡°Not good!¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression changed drastically. He had underestimated the Five-Colored Peacock¡¯s innate divine ability.


    Bang!


    The protective light shield from his third-rank talisman shattered upon impact with the multicolored beam.


    The Five-Colored Peacock¡¯s divine light had a unique property¡ªit could erase spiritual light and neutralize restrictions. Ordinary magical treasures and talismans werepletely suppressed by it.


    On top of that, the Five-Colored Peacock had reached the peak of mid-stage third rank, boasting a cultivation advantage that only further amplified the power of its abilities.


    Buzz! Bang!


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s finalyer of protection, a shield condensed from pure magical power, barely withstood the dissipating remnants of the divine light. Both the shield and the light disintegrated simultaneously in midair.


    In just two breaths, the multicolored beam had shattered his treasure ruler, destroyed a third-rank talisman, and obliterated his protective shield.


    How could this still be a fight?


    Taking a deep breath, Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind raced as he desperately searched for a way to break the deadlock.


    In terms of speed, the Five-Colored Peacock far surpassed him.


    Its attack range was simrly extraordinary.


    Whizz! Whizz!


    Two more multicolored beams shot toward him.


    Lan Chang''an flicked his fingers, activating several earth-element talismans. They conjured a series of stone walls from the desert sands, creating a sturdy physical defense.


    These solid barriers were slightly more effective at withstanding the multicolored beamspared to his spiritual light defenses.


    He also summoned a bronze mirror treasure, which reflected the diminished power of the beams back onto the sandy ground, leaving behind a scorched crater several zhang in diameter.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had a diverse arsenal of magical treasures, which allowed him to adapt to various situations.


    The bronze mirror, acquired from a Core Formation cultivator of the Seven Kingdoms Alliance, had also been refined and modified by him.


    ¡°Too passive!¡±


    On the battlefield, Lan Chang''an waspletely suppressed, unable to strike back.


    The Five-Colored Peacock¡¯s superior speed and long attack range ced him at a constant disadvantage.


    Among his many techniques, only the Barbed Arrow had a longer range than the peacock¡¯s attacks and might pose a threat to it. However, he had no confidence in sessfully taking down a heavenly-bloodline Five-Colored Peacock with that alone.


    ¡°The only way to truly hurt it is to engage in closebat. Flying beasts typically have weaker defenses¡­¡±


    A thought flickered in Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind.


    However, the Five-Colored Peacock was no fool. It kept a safe distance, relying on its superior mobility to harass him with ranged attacks.


    Lan Chang''an had no chance to close the gap and counterattack.


    ¡°Damn it! I¡¯m being kited!¡±


    He couldn¡¯t even get close tounch a melee attack.


    The Barbed Arrows, of which he only had three, were better suited for ambushes and surprise attacks. Their effectiveness in direct confrontations was significantly reduced.


    He needed to save them for a critical moment, especially since the Peacock Saintess could arrive at any time.


    ¡°Am I really about to be forced by some fowl into using my fourth-life descent or revealing my secret technique to escape?¡±


    Lan Chang''an felt an intense unwillingness in his heart.


    It wasn¡¯t that he was determined to tangle with the Five-Colored Peacock. The problem was that he couldn¡¯t outrun it.


    The Five-Colored Peacock¡¯s mobility and detection capabilities exceeded those of ate-stage Core Formation Great Cultivator.


    Once targeted by such a creature, there was no escaping unless he severely injured or killed it. Even a third-rank Minor Teleportation Talisman wouldn¡¯t guarantee a clean getaway.


    If he didn¡¯t kill this beast now, once the Peacock Saintess arrived, his chances of evading pursuit would drop even further.


    ¡­


    ¡°Enough.¡±


    After weighing his options, Lan Chang''an decided it wasn¡¯t worth wasting his energy fighting a mere beast.


    Forming a hand seal, he activated the Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique, causing his Golden Dan¡¯s spiritual energy to boil and his lifespan to burn.


    In an instant, Lan Chang''an¡¯s body erupted with radiant golden and blood-colored light, as if he had transformed into a zing crimson sun.


    ¡°Escape¡ª!¡±


    His speed skyrocketed several times over, turning him into a streak of red light as he streaked through the wind and sand of the desert. Within mere breaths, he had vanished from sight.


    The Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique was an ancient escape method long passed down in the cultivation world. It wasn¡¯t unique to the me Departing Pce.


    This technique was divided into six levels, corresponding to cultivation realms from the early Core Formation stage to thete Nascent Soul stage.


    The fourth-life Master Lihuo had once mastered the fourth level, which corresponded to the early Nascent Soul stage.


    Although Lan Chang''an¡¯s theoretical understanding had also reached the fourth level, his body and spiritual energy limitations meant he could normally only perform the second level, which matched the mid-Core Formation stage.


    Even so, his current escape speed far exceeded that of ate-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    The Five-Colored Peacock, left behind by over ten li, let out a sharp and furious screech.


    Its radiant plumage shimmered with swirling, vibrant colors as its speed abruptly increased by 40¨C50%, surpassing that of ordinaryte-stage Core Formation cultivators by quite a bit.


    ¡°This Five-Colored Peacock has actually been systematically trained and has learned a secret movement technique?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression grew grim.


    Although he was still faster than the peacock, it would take time topletely shake it off.


    However, time was a luxury he couldn¡¯t afford.


    The Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique burned lifespan as its price.


    The Five-Colored Peacock¡¯s movement technique, while not as extreme, consumed its vital energy and would leave it in a weakened state afterward.


    Momentster, Lan Chang''an sensed a powerful spiritual sense sweeping across the area. It was significantly stronger than that of an averagete-stage Core Formation cultivator and not much worse than his own spiritual sense when he merged with the second life.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, I¡¯ve finally found you!¡±


    From the clouds to his side, a streak of colorful light sped toward him, coordinating with the Five-Colored Peacock to cut off his escape.


    Soon, a woman dressed in vibrant rainbow-colored robes came into view.


    ¡°Peacock Saintess!¡±


    The woman¡¯s feathered attire fluttered elegantly, her eyes gleaming like moonlight. Her figure and appearance were unparalleled, exuding an air of nobility, aloofness, and breathtaking beauty.


    Her bare, jade-like feet floated above the desert sands, untouched by wind or dirt. Around her crystalline ankles, golden and silver anklets shone faintly, clearly extraordinary magical treasures.


    Even Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a flicker of admiration at the sight of the Peacock Saintess.


    But he was in no mood to appreciate it.


    Without hesitation, he shifted direction and sped deeper into the desert, toward the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, now that you¡¯ve been caught by me, today you won¡¯t escape your fate.¡±


    The Peacock Saintess smiled faintly, a crystalline orb floating above her delicate hand. Inside the orb was blue-green blood, submerging a piece of tortoiseshell fragment.


    Seeing this, Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart sank.


    The Peacock Saintess had been able to track him not only because she had hired a divination master.


    As the Saintess of the Beast King Valley, she was undoubtedly a genius in the art of beast taming.


    ording to the intelligence Lan Chang''an had gathered, the Peacock Saintess was a Beast-Taming Grandmaster.


    Beast-taming grandmasters often specialized in using all kinds of exotic creatures and insects for reconnaissance and pursuit.


    What¡¯s more, the Peacock Saintess was born with the innate Dao physique of Myriad Spirits, which granted her exceptional sensitivity to all spiritual beings in the world and unmatched talent in controlling and tracking them.


    ¡°Peacock Saintess, you and I have no grievances. Why must you press me so hard?¡±


    Lan Chang''an noticed that the Peacock Saintess¡¯s flying light technique was slightly slower than the Five-Colored Peacock¡¯s. This realization gave him a sliver of relief.


    ¡°Grudges should be resolved, not deepened! Your speed cannot match mine. Why not retreat and call it a day?¡±


    He attempted to reason with the Peacock Saintess, hoping to de-escte the situation.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, how long can you keep burning your blood essence and lifespan to maintain this escape technique?¡±


    The Peacock Saintess¡¯s voice was calm, her delicate fingers raised in a light gesture. She smiled with an enchanting mix of holiness and allure. Her beauty, enhanced by her faint smile, could topple kingdoms.


    ¡°Once your body is exhausted from overexertion, you¡¯ll fall into weakness. Even if you widen the distance now, it will be child¡¯s y for me to track and capture youter.¡±


    The Peacock Saintess wasn¡¯t in a rush.


    Her final divination from Elder Shi had only pinpointed a general area.


    From there, she had relied on her beast-taming techniques and tracking secret arts, dividing her efforts with the Five-Colored Peacock tob the area.


    As luck would have it, the Five-Colored Peacock had been the first to find and lock onto Lan Chang''an.


    Now that she had located her target, the Peacock Saintess was confident Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t escape.


    Unless, of course, he could maintain his current speed indefinitely.


    ¡­


    Half an hourter.


    Lan Chang''an had sessfully shaken off the Peacock Saintess, creating a distance of at least a thousand li between them.


    At such a range, even ate-stage Core Formation cultivator would certainly lose track of him.


    Even a Nascent Soul expert, unless skilled in tracking, might fail to keep up.


    Huff!


    Slightly weakened, Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged atop a sand dune.


    The Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique he had maintained for the past half hour had cost him two and a half years of his lifespan.


    Thanks to his third-rank body refinement technique, his physique was powerful and his vitality abundant, so the life burn didn¡¯t leave him gravely injured or heavily drained.


    A third-rank spiritual pill would be enough to replenish his vitality and blood.


    Pausing now, however, was not just for recovery¡ªit was to devise a way to turn the tide of the battle.


    This included calcting the odds of victory if he were to fight the Peacock Saintess head-on.


    The results were grim.


    Without summoning his fourth life, his odds of winning were less than 0.5%.


    The Five-Colored Peacock alone was already an enormous challenge.


    Adding the Peacock Saintess, whose innate Dao physique and beast-taming abilities enhanced her spiritual sense far beyond that of a typicalte-stage Core Formation cultivator, left his chances of sess minuscule.


    Even his Barbed Arrows posed limited threat to her.


    Moreover, the Peacock Saintess likely possessed other spirit beasts aside from the Five-Colored Peacock.


    As for using his fourth-life descent, while it would almost guarantee his escape, killing the Peacock Saintess to eliminate future trouble still carried significant risks.


    Lan Chang''an spected that she might have Nascent Soul-grade life-saving treasures on her.


    ¡°Luckily, I¡¯ve learned divination! If I assumed my fourth-life descent made me invincible under the Nascent Soul stage and recklessly tried to take her down, I might have paid a heavy price.¡±


    After a moment of contemtion, Lan Chang''an had a n in mind.


    ...


    Not long after, the Peacock Saintess and the Five-Colored Peacock reappeared within Lan Chang''an¡¯s spiritual perception range.


    On the sand dune, Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, feigning recovery. His face was as pale as paper, and his aura had dropped to that of a Fake Dan cultivator.


    In front of him stood a turtle puppet, several zhang in size, acting as his shield.


    Seeing the Peacock Saintess approach, Lan Chang''an shrank back behind the turtle puppet with a frightened and feeble demeanor.


    ¡°Turtle Immortal, why aren¡¯t you running anymore?¡±


    The Peacock Saintess scanned him with her spiritual sense, her lips curling slightly into an amused smile.


    Her swan-like neck rose gracefully as she looked down at Lan Chang''an from above, her posture haughty and majestic.


    Despite being merely an early Core Formation cultivator, with an insignificant low-tier True Dan, he had used the Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique to put a thousand li between them.


    The cost of that technique would leave even a mid-Core Formation cultivator severely weakened.


    ¡°Don¡¯te any closer¡ª!¡±


    To Lan Chang''an, the breathtakingly beautiful saintess appeared like a nightmare. With a mix of terror and anger, he roared, his voice trembling:


    ¡°If youe any closer, I¡¯ll activate the spirit pet contract and force the Profound Water Turtle to perish! I¡¯ll also kill myself, so you¡¯ll never get the secrets you¡¯re after¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s voice was fierce, but his tone betrayed his underlying fear.


    The Peacock Saintess, just as her pure white feet were about to descend onto the ground, paused slightly in mid-air.


    ¡°Pfft.¡±


    A softugh escaped her lips. Her dimples deepened, and the saintess¡¯s holy and stunning face bloomed with countless charms as she spoke softly:


    ¡°This saintess doesn¡¯t believe that a coward like Turtle Immortal has the courage tomit suicide.¡±


    She nced down at him, her tone teasing yet imperious.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you a chance¡ªkneel and submit, be this saintess¡¯s manservant!¡±


    ¡°Surrender the Profound Water Turtle and the secrets of its cultivation. In return, Beast King Valley will ensure your safety. You¡¯ll no longer have to flee for your life in the future.¡±


    Be her manservant?


    Looking up at the high and mighty Peacock Saintess, Lan Chang''an found her words as sweet as the songs of celestial beings, making his heart waver.


    Her noble and peerless face, every slight expression and movement, seemed to pull him into a trance.


    A sudden, fanatical urge to worship her overwhelmed him. He wanted to kneel beneath her robes, bowing down to kiss her pristine jade-like feet.


    Whoosh!


    Seizing the opportunity, the Peacock Saintess moved closer. The silver anklet on one of her feet let out a faint cicada-like hum, releasing an imperceptible spiritual wave.


    Buzz!


    The silver anklet slipped off her foot, expanding into a ring over a zhang wide, and spun toward Lan Chang''an, who was sinking into her enchantment.


    This was the Spirit-Taming Ring, one of the Peacock Saintess¡¯s magical treasures. Not only could it enve demonic beasts, but it also worked on human cultivators.


    The Peacock Saintess was clearly intending to take advantage of Lan Chang''an¡¯s weakened state and directly enve him.


    ¡°An illusion technique? You vixen¡ª!¡±


    At the critical moment, Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes shed with a cold light. With a sharp yell, he forcibly broke free from the enchanting spell.


    ¡°Impressive willpower, but unfortunately it''s toote,¡± the Peacock Saintess said softly, her toneced with both praise and disdain.


    She floated down through the air, now less than three zhang away from Lan Chang''an.


    The now-erged Spirit-Taming Ring glowed brilliantly and descended toward Lan Chang''an¡¯s head, nearly encircling him.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Bang!


    The hastily activated protective barrier around Lan Chang''an shattered instantly. The silver ring¡¯s radiance dimmed only slightly.


    Lan Chang''an, however, neither dodged nor fled. Instead, a faint smile appeared on his lips as his palm pped down on the ground.


    At the same time¡ª


    Ding!


    The turtle puppet beside him sprang to life with startling agility, leaping up and colliding with the descending Spirit-Taming Ring, sending it flying into the sand.


    ¡°Not good!¡±


    The Peacock Saintess¡¯s expression changed as she immediately realized she had fallen into a trap.


    It turned out Lan Chang''an had been feigning weakness the entire time and hadn¡¯t truly sumbed to her illusion spell.


    Otherwise, there was no way he could have reacted so quickly, directing the puppet to urately knock her Spirit-Taming Ring away.


    Buried in the sand, the Spirit-Taming Ring lost its connection to her.


    Underneath the sand, a third-rank rodent demon swiftly scurried away, snatching the silver ring from her jade-like ankle and carrying it off.


    Buzz!


    Retrieving the turtle puppet, Lan Chang''an¡¯s body flickered with an earthy yellow glow before he sank into the sand.


    ¡°Cheap tricks!¡±


    The Peacock Saintess raised her wless hand, summoning a golden, top-shaped treasure designed to counter earth burrowing techniques.


    However, the moment Lan Chang''an disappeared, something unexpected urred.


    Boom!


    A surge of immense spiritual energy erupted from beneath the sand like a volcano breaking through the earth. The ground split apart violently.


    Eighteen luminous talismans of various colors rotated around the Peacock Saintess in a radius of dozens of zhang. Their light interwove, forming a sealed formation.


    ng!


    Her spinning top-shaped treasure struck the ground but only produced a shower of sparks, as if hitting indestructible refined steel.


    ¡°This brat¡­ he¡¯s skilled in formation techniques?¡±


    Realizing she had fallen into a carefullyid trap, the Peacock Saintess¡¯s expression shifted between shock and fury, a blush spreading across her wless cheeks.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    She unleashed herte-Core Formation cultivation,manding her magical treasures to assault the formation. Sshes of multicolored light erupted like waves crashing on rocks.


    Yet the talisman array held firm, immovable.


    Each of the oversized talismans wasn¡¯t ordinary; they contained spirituality, elevating the formation¡¯s power to a whole new level.


    ¡°Treasure Talismans?¡±


    The Peacock Saintess¡¯s eyes widened slightly. With her vast experience, she recognized their origins immediately.


    Eighteen treasure talismans, all third-rank mid-grade or higher, representing the five elements¡ªmetal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Among them were sealing talismans, restriction-breaking talismans, and illusion talismans.


    The formation created was self-sustaining,bining offense and defense.


    Spikes of earth, arcs of lightning, bursts of fire, icy mists, and illusory traps cycled endlessly within the formation.


    ¡­


    Whoosh!


    A hundred zhang away, Lan Chang''an emerged from beneath the sand, his gaze fixed on the Peacock Saintess trapped within the talisman formation.


    Earlier, his feigned weakness and panicked cries of ¡°Don¡¯te closer!¡± had been nothing but a psychological trick.


    How could someone as proud and noble as the Peacock Saintess tolerate such defiance?


    Lan Chang''an had counted on her pride. She had fallen right into his trap.


    To ensure she wouldn¡¯t detect his preparations, Lan Chang''an had instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat to manipte the natural flow of the sand, concealing the treasure talismans while adding materials that absorbed spiritual sense probing.


    The Peacock Saintess¡¯s attention had remained focused on him, trying to determine whether he was genuinely weakened.


    Thanks to his superior spiritual sense and the Hundred Illusions Mask, Lan Chang''an had sessfully passed her scrutiny.


    ¡°Peacock Saintess, I¡¯ll be taking my leave now!¡±


    ¡°One day, when my power has matured, I will definitely ''payback'' for today''s events and settle things properly with you!¡±


    Lan Chang''anughed heartily, activating his light technique and pping a treasure talisman onto himself to elerate as he sped toward the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    While the Peacock Saintess was momentarily immobilized, Lan Chang''an¡¯s strategy was to widen the distance further and hopefully escape her pursuit entirely.


    ¡°That damned Turtle Immortal is so cunning¡­¡±


    The Peacock Saintess¡¯s delicate features contorted in anger. She bit her silver teeth, her chest heaving as her face flushed alternating shades of green and red.


    If word spread that she had been tricked into losing her Spirit-Taming Ring, an item she always carried, it would make her aughingstock among herpetitors in Beast King Valley.


    More importantly, Lan Chang''an clearly possessed some secret opportunity or treasure. If he escaped, he would only grow stronger, bing a dangerous enemy in the future.


    ¡°Peacock, go after him and hold him down!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s no longer using the Blood Escape technique, so his vitality must have been depleted. He¡¯s definitely not at his peak!¡±


    The Peacock Saintess temporarily gave up trying to break the talisman formation and instead issued amand to her Five-Colored Peacock.


    The Five-Colored Peacock, which had been circling above to monitor Lan Chang''an¡¯s movements, let out a shrill cry.


    Its wings red with radiant multicolored light as it dove toward Lan Chang''an at even greater speed.


    In normal circumstances, the Five-Colored Peacock¡¯s speed was slightly superior to the Peacock Saintess¡¯s and clearly faster than Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an had fled over a hundred li when he noticed the Five-Colored Peacock closing in again.


    If he allowed the heavenly-bloodline spirit bird to dy him, the Peacock Saintess would eventually break free from the talisman array and catch up.


    ¡°Do you really think I¡¯ve burned my essence to the point where I can¡¯t use the Blood Escape technique anymore?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression remained calm, but his thoughts were already sharp and calcting.


    The mocking words he had left for the Peacock Saintess earlier weren¡¯t just taunts¡ªthey were a ploy to lure the Five-Colored Peacock with higher speed into a trap and deal with it for good to eliminate any future troubles.


    As the Five-Colored Peacock closed the distance to six or seven li, preparing tounch another long-range attack, whoosh¡ª


    A piercing, soul-shaking whistle rang out.


    From beneath the sand behind the Five-Colored Peacock, a Barbed Arrow shot forth with deadly precision, aiming straight for its abdomen.


    Caughtpletely off guard, the Five-Colored Peacock hadn¡¯t expected such a hidden and malicious ambush from the sand below.


    The Barbed Arrow contained a spiritual soul attack, causing the peacock¡¯s consciousness to throb with sharp pain. Its flight faltered, its speed plummeting as it failed to evade the iing strike.


    At the same moment, Lan Chang''an, glowing with golden blood light, turned abruptly and surged toward the peacock at terrifying speed, aiming to create a pincer attack.


    Boom!


    The injured Five-Colored Peacock pped its radiant wings desperately, trying to deflect the Barbed Arrow with its five-colored divine light.


    But it was too rushed.


    Pffft!


    The Barbed Arrow, infused with spiritual soul attack, pierced through the peacock¡¯s feathers and embedded itself half a foot deep into its abdomen.


    Caughtpletely off guard and suffering from a calcted assault, the Five-Colored Peacock let out a furious screech.


    It attempted to ascend into the sky to escape, but its wings grew stiff. Its wound began to numb, and dark, poisonous blood dripped from the injury.


    The Barbed Arrow had been coated with third-rank lethal poison.


    ¡°Excellent!¡±


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel overjoyed.


    As he approached with blood-colored light, he stopped the Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique, knowing its explosive speed was unsuitable during fights.


    Now, with the Five-Colored Peacock injured and poisoned, its speed had dropped by 30¨C40%.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    Lan Chang''an stabilized his blood and energy, rapidly activating six or seven third-rank treasure talismans. Each one unleashed attacks or control effects designed to slow and weaken the peacock further.


    Simultaneously, he summoned a third-rank archer puppet, which released glowing arrows that rained down upon the peacock.


    The Five-Colored Peacock, floundering as if trapped in quicksand, struggled to evade the barrage of attacks. Its five-colored light flickered unevenly as it pped its wings with visible difficulty.


    Just as it tried to retreat, a massive shadow emerged from the sand behind it.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat burrowed up from below, kicking up a vast sandstorm thatpletely blocked the peacock¡¯s escape route.


    In the desert, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s earth-elemental spells gained a natural bonus, enhancing itsbat strength significantly.


    Both were mid-stage third-rank creatures, but with the peacock already injured and poisoned, the Earth Burrowing Rat was now a genuine threat in closebat.


    Lan Chang''an unleashed even more pressure, using his bronze mirror magical treasure and silver-gray ruler to suppress the Five-Colored Peacock.


    However, he refrained from using the Barbed Arrow again.


    Having been ambushed once, the peacock would now be far more vignt.


    The peacock screeched in desperation as it was driven back into the sandstorm.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s three primary puppets¡ªthe archer, the turtle, and the rat¡ªjoined forces to surround it.


    Even the Profound Water Turtle, despite its weakerbat abilities, contributed by spitting out dense water pirs from the edges of the battlefield.


    One versus six.


    Wounded and poisoned, the Five-Colored Peacock wailed in pain as blood gushed from its wounds. It quickly fell into a critical state.


    sh!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat finally closed in, its massive w slicing through the peacock¡¯s wing in a spray of vibrant red blood.


    Screech!!!


    The Five-Colored Peacock let out onest mournful cry as its severed wing fell to the ground, its majestic plumage stained with blood.


    The injured peacock, eyes glowing blood-red, ignited a desperate five-colored me around its body as it crashed into the sand below.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s magical treasures sizzled and charred ck upon contact with the mes. Even his treasure talismans and spells fizzled out before they could reach the bird.


    Watching the scene, Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes narrowed.


    ¡°The peacock is burning its blood essence and life force to activate a powerful life-preserving secret technique¡­ Below the Nascent Soul Realm, it¡¯s nearly invincible now.¡±


    Though it wouldn¡¯t die anytime soon, the cost of this technique would permanently damage its future potential.


    Nearby, the Earth Burrowing Rat picked up the severed wing, licking the noble heavenly blood with its tongue.


    ¡°Not bad. This will make excellent material for refining a talisman brush.¡±


    Lan Chang''an waved his hand, pulling the wing into his storage pouch while the Earth Burrowing Rat reluctantly surrendered it.


    Hesitating for a moment, it handed over a silver ring with a slightly residual aura to its master on its own ord this time.


    ¡°Well, this child is teachable. Today beheading the peacock, you''ve made a great achievement, you''ll be rewarded when you return.¡±


    Lan Chang''an praised with satisfaction.


    "Go!"


    Suddenly, his spiritual senses tingled as he detected a terrifying aura approaching from the distance.


    The Peacock Saintess had likely sensed her spirit beast¡¯s mortal peril and had unleashed some terrifying method to break through the talisman formation.


    Without hesitation, Lan Chang''an stowed away all his puppets and spirit beasts.


    Activating his escape technique, he merged into the endless desert sands.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 289: First Arrival at Fengyuan

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    In the deste desert, the wind howled, carrying with it sand and dust.


    Within a charred pit of sand, the Five-Colored Peacocky unconscious, its aura growing increasingly dim.


    Just as the multicolored mes on its body were about to extinguish entirely, a radiant streak of multicolored light shot across the horizon, arriving with breathtaking speed.


    "Que''er!"


    The Peacock Saintess''s moonlit eyes brimmed with tears, her voice filled with grief and anger.


    Her once-glorious colorful robes were now in tatters, revealing fair, snow-like skin with faint feather-like patterns etched upon it.


    From her smooth back, a pair of tricolored wings extended outwards, each nearly two feet long. Waves of magical power, infused with the unique energy of the peacock lineage, rippled around her, exuding a terrifying spiritual pressure almost at the Nascent Soul stage.


    For hundreds of li around, the desert had fallen deathly silent, as if devoid of life."Turtle Lan¡ª"


    The Peacock Saintess gritted her pearly teeth, her lips bleeding as she bit down in rage.


    Crack!


    The mana in her body spiraled out of control, and the remnants of her colorful robes disintegrated. Yellow sand, carried by the fierce winds, clung to her immacte, snow-white body.


    Looking at the Five-Colored Peacock, now barely clinging to life, the Peacock Saintess forcibly suppressed her hatred. She sat cross-legged and extended her delicate hand to touch the peacock¡¯s abdomen. Taking out a variety of vials and jars, she began administering medicine to save her spiritualpanion.


    The Five-Colored Peacock, with its heavenly bloodline, had been nurtured for over two centuries and was the foundation of her cultivation path.


    Faced with a difficult choice, the Peacock Saintess could only abandon her pursuit of Lan Chang''an.


    "Treasure talismans... beast-taming methods... third-rank puppets..."


    "That nailhead arrow magical treasure¡ªcapable of soul attack with strength beyond thete Core Formation stage..."


    As she tended to the peacock andmunicated with its consciousness, more details of the battle began to surface in her mind.


    "If this Lan Chang''an isn¡¯t a reincarnated cultivator who has shattered the mysteries of the womb, then he must be a vessel seized by a high-level cultivator."


    The Peacock Saintess felt a growing apprehension toward Lan Chang''an and his myriad methods, whose origins were a mystery.


    No ordinary cultivator could possess so many skills and techniques, nor such a powerful divine soul.


    Only reincarnation and rebirth, or body-seizing and rebuilding, could exin such phenomena.


    Such cases weren¡¯t umon in the history of the Sacred Sect.


    Otherwise, even the strongest prodigies of the Sacred Sect wouldn''t have been able to make her suffer such great losses during their early stage of Core Formation.


    This was one of the reasons she chose to abandon her pursuit.


    Even though Lan Chang''an dared not face her directly, relying on cunning tactics to gain an advantage, she still had to exercise caution.


    "Failing to eliminate him this time and letting that scoundrel escape... I fear I won¡¯t have another chance for many years toe."


    The Peacock Saintess felt bitter and unwilling, but she was powerless to change the oue.


    During this wartime period, she had missions toplete. It had taken great effort for her to slip behind the enemy¡¯s weaker defenses in the Liang Kingdom.


    When she arrived at the Beast Taming Zhou Family, she had avoided alerting them due to their third-rank formations and third-rank guardian beasts, she had only secretly probed.


    Now her target had fled deep into the endless desert of Fengyuan Kingdom.


    To find such a cunning and cautious old monster again would be like searching for gold in the sand.


    Even if she advanced to the Nascent Soul Realm, there was no guarantee she could seed.


    What¡¯s more, the Fengyuan Kingdom had its own powerful Heavenly Master. Once on his territory, even mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivators could do nothing about it.


    Although the Peacock Saintess was a Nascent Soul seed and a prodigy of her sect, her personal actions couldn¡¯t sway the grand decisions of the Beast King Valley.


    Unless Beast King Valley conquered the entire Righteous Dao Alliance region in the future, their influence wouldn¡¯t extend to the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    The Peacock Saintess believed that day wasn¡¯t far off.


    ...


    The vast, boundless desert was and of flying sand and raging winds.


    Lan Chang''an rode his streak of light for two days straight, traversing the endless expanse of sand.


    The swirling sands grew fiercer, significantly hindering the flight speed of even Core Formation cultivators.


    Whoosh!


    Lan Chang''an descended atop a sand dune, sitting cross-legged as he exhaled a long breath of turbid air to recover.


    "By cutting off the wings of the Five-Colored Peacock and inflicting severe poison upon it, the Peacock Saintess¡¯s fighting strength and tracking ability will all be drastically cut down."


    The Five-Colored Peacock¡¯s agility and multi-colored spiritual light had been the greatest challenges.


    Without this heavenly-grade spiritual beast, even if the Peacock Saintess managed to follow, she would pose much less of a threat.


    This was why Lan Chang''an had targeted the peacock.


    The Peacock Saintess herself posed an even greater danger, possibly carrying Nascent Soul-level trump cards.


    Through prior calctions, Lan Chang''an had determined that even with the strength of his fourth-life Nascent Soul reincarnation, a life-and-death battle with her carried significant risk.


    Moreover, killing the Saintess would inevitably provoke the top echelons of Beast King Valley into action.


    The consequences of killing a sect prodigy were worlds apart from killing an ordinary Core Formation cultivator.


    Such risks far outweighed any potential rewards and weren¡¯t worth taking.


    Since the Saintess¡¯s power was overwhelming and her methods perilous, provoking her was unwise. Instead, he had temporarily incapacitated her by taking away her closest support.


    Cutting off her wings, both literally and figuratively, would make her feel pain from the bottom of her heart.


    Lan Chang''an swallowed a few pills to restore his energy and blood.


    "As long as I¡¯ve kept the Immortal Golden Dan, the Xuanmu Vine Gourd, and the secret of longevity hidden, there¡¯s no major problem."


    He performed a quick divination, obtaining a general sense of the future.


    The techniques he had revealed during the battle were merely external tools, unrted to his core secrets.


    In this fight, he hadn¡¯t unleashed his true power. The golden core mana from his Evergreen Technique remained concealed, even during his sh with the Peacock Saintess.


    For top-tier factions like the Six Demonic Sects, the secrets of the Core Formation Realm were of little interest.


    Only opportunities at the Nascent Soul level or higher¡ªthose tied to mid-tote Nascent Soul advancement or spiritual treasures¡ªwould truly draw their attention and justify exhaustive investigations.


    As for the Xuanmu Vine Gourd in his possession, its divine properties naturally concealed itself from divination, there was no need to worry about it.


    That being said, the vine¡¯s concealment applied only to itself, not to random bystanders.


    Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t refined the vine or formed a bond with it. How could its innate properties protect him?


    Even if he did refine it in the future, the gourd vine¡¯s passive attributes wouldn¡¯t necessarily grant him continuous protection.


    Half an hourter.


    After reviewing and calcting the situation, Lan Chang''an confirmed that fleeing to Fengyuan Kingdom had ensured his rtive safety.


    The Fengyuan Kingdom was too far from the frontlines of the war.


    For Beast King Valley to conquer Jing, Chen, Feng, Heng etc. kingdoms and to stabilize their territories, would take considerable time. Only then might they consider moving toward Fengyuan Kingdom.


    The Fengyuan Kingdom, situated deep within the endless desert, was a harsh and barrennd.


    Even if elite forces of the demonic sects attempted to invade, they would struggle to adapt to the environment and would hardly pose a threat to the vast expanse of the sand-fillednds.


    The Fengyuan Kingdom was located within the interior of this desert, upying green oases, mountain ranges, and marsnds scattered amidst the harsh terrain.


    The country was alreadyrge,parable in size to Feng Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    In fact, the entire expanse of the desert surrounding the Fengyuan Kingdom was over ten times its size!


    To the northy even harsher and more perilous environments, nearing the borders of the Great Qing Territory.


    Such a remote and inhospitablend...


    Lan Chang''an doubted that even if Beast King Valley conquered the entire Righteous Dao Alliance region, they would have much interest in Fengyuan Kingdom.


    At least not within the next hundred years.


    ...


    During the gap in time as Lan Chang''an recovered his mana and vitality, he began sorting through the losses and gains from his recent escape.


    None of his puppets or spiritual pets had been lost.


    He had used over thirty treasure talismans, but most of them were of lower quality and limited potential. Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t feel much pain over them.


    As his cultivation advanced, he had gradually been upgrading his stockpile of treasure talismans, improving their base materials and refining techniques.


    The most significant loss was his lifespan.


    Using the "Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique" technique,bined with the divinations needed to counter Huang Lang Immortal during his flight, had cost him over three years of his lifespan.


    Adding in the minor lifespan losses from before his escape, Lan Chang''an still had a total lifespan of 1,120 years leftparable to that of some Nascent Soul-stage old monsters.


    If he didn¡¯t factor in nurturing the Xuanmu Vine Gourd, this remaining lifespan was more than sufficient for him to freely expend during the Core Formation stage.


    However,pared to the cost of losing three years of life, the rewards from this escape were immeasurable.


    The spoils gained from Huang Lang Immortal alone had made Lan Chang''an a fortune.


    Among them were rare resources, spiritual beast cubs, and beast eggs, all of which could be traded for second and third-rank Life Extension Pills.


    Lan Chang''an still remembered the first third-rank Life Extension Pill he had ever consumed, which had directly extended his life by sixty years.


    He flipped his hand to retrieve two jade boxes. Inside, one contained a silver ring, while the other held a peacock feather.


    "This spirit-taming ring is a treasure that beast tamers can only dream of possessing. Even in Beast King Valley, mid-grade third-rank spirit taming rings are incredibly rare."


    With his Nascent Soul-level knowledge and experience, Lan Chang''an identified the ring¡¯s function and origins.


    The ring could enve and tame spiritual beasts, and even human cultivators could be its target.


    However, to sessfully enve someone, the target had to be rendered defenseless, gravely injured, or in a weakened state.


    If the target had high intelligence and no fear of death, there was a certain risk of bacsh during the envement process.


    "What Peacock Saintess¡ªjust a wicked woman from the demonic path! She actually dared to treat this Immortal as if I were some cat or dog to enve..."


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression darkened, and a cold light shed in his eyes.


    Had he been an ordinary Core Formation cultivator, he would likely have already been tamed by the Peacock Saintess, reduced to a spiritual pet or manservant, and stripped of his freedom and life.


    This grudge of being hunted down, Lan Chang''an silently etched into his heart.


    In the future, when his power reached great heights, he intended to repay this grievance in full. This spirit taming ring would be the very weapon he used to turn the tables.


    Next, Lan Chang''an looked toward the peacock feather in the other jade box.


    "A third-rank Five-Colored Peacock only has three feathered wings in total."


    "The feathered wings of such a heavenly-grade spiritual peacock is an incredibly rare third-rank treasure material in the cultivation world."


    As a third-rank artifact refiner and talisman master, Lan Chang''an could think of countless uses for this peacock feather.


    It could be used to craft a talisman brush, greatly enhancing the quality of talisman creation.


    It could also be refined into the shaft of his Barbed Arrows, potentially increasing their speed and spirituality.


    The Five-Colored Peacock carried a trace of true spirit bloodline. Its feathers concentrated the essence of its being and contained extraordinary spirituality and Dao resonance.


    From the feather, Lan Chang''an could sense an aura simr to that of his Immortal Golden Dan.


    Additionally, its spirituality surpassed that of most third-rank spirit bamboos, leaving him to wonder if it had the potential for nurturing and enhancement.


    For both the spirit-taming ring and the peacock feather, Lan Chang''an decided to wait until he had settled down in the Fengyuan Kingdom before processing and repurposing them. He intended to fully im and refine them into his possession, ensuring that there would be no possibility of tracking or sensing them.


    ...


    A few hourster, Lan Chang''an fully restored his mana and vitality.


    He activated his flying light and continued traversing the endless expanse of grayish-yellow desert, with the howling wind and sand stretching infinitely in all directions.


    There was little contact between the Fengyuan Kingdom and the Liang Kingdom, primarily due to the harsh environment, the vast distance, and the numerous dangers along the way.


    Even a lone Fake Dan cultivator would face no small risks crossing this desert.


    The primary dangers in this desert could be ssified into three categories:


    First, the Flying Sand Chasm, natural disasters in the desert, caused by the unpredictable and immense power of heaven and earth, were capable of swallowing third-rank spiritual ships whole.


    Spiritual ships that traveled steadily between the Jing Kingdom and Liang Kingdom often proved ineffective in the Flying Sand Desert. Theirrge size made them easy targets for natural disasters and attracted swarms of sandworms.


    The constant barrage of sandstorms rapidly consumed the spiritual stones used to maintain a ship¡¯s protective formations, leading to exorbitant costs.


    Second, Sandworm Beasts, strange worms and beasts that inhabited the desert held the advantage of their home terrain.


    Some of them traveled in massive swarms, numbering in the tens of thousands. Others were solitary but individually powerful, their attacks bizarre and difficult to defend against.


    ording to records, high-level sand beasts in this desert had even killed Core Formation cultivators in the past.


    There were also unverified legends that in the northern regions of the desert, deeper into the Fengyuan Kingdom, therey a Sand Emperor sleeping beneath the sands. In its domain, its abilities surpassed even those of an ordinary Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Third, Desert Bandits and Marauders, many of these bandits were criminals exiled from Fengyuan Kingdom, known for their ruthless nature.


    In recent decades, deserters from the Righteous Dao Alliance¡¯s side had also fled into this desert, joining the ranks of the marauders.


    These sand bandits, familiar with the desert terrain, often possessed cultivation techniques or mounts adapted to desert life andbat.


    For a lone cultivator stranded in the desert, facing both natural disasters and sand beasts, these marauders posed an insurmountable threat.


    Thebination of natural and human dangers had resulted in minimal contact and trade between the Fengyuan Kingdom and the nations of the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Lan Chang''an''s endurance was longsting and he didn¡¯t dare unleash his full flight speed in the Flying Sand Desert.


    Excessive fluctuations of mana could attract the attention of sand beasts or bandits.


    He needed to maintain an optimal state to handle any unforeseen changes.


    The fourth life Nascent Soul True Monarch had traveled through Fengyuan Kingdom two centuries ago and held a general understanding of the terrain. However, this knowledge couldn¡¯tpare to the familiarity of the locals.


    The Nine Fiery Heavens above the Flying Sand Desert were filled with dark yellow sand mist that blocked spiritual senses. The gales in this region were several times more intense than those in the outside world.


    Flying within the Nine Fiery Heavens drained mana at an rming rate and left cultivators vulnerable to attacks by strange sand beasts and flying creatures lurking within the sandstorm.


    ...


    Seven dayster.


    Lan Chang''an had delved deep into the Flying Sand Desert.


    During his journey, he encountered a massive swarm of sandworms, their movement resembling a gue of locusts that left no life in their wake.


    Fortunately, with his sharp senses and the assistance of his Earth Burrowing Rat for scouting, Lan Chang''an was able to detect the danger in advance and evade it.


    In the depths of the desert, the relentless yellow sands and howling winds nketed thendscape, severely limiting the effectiveness of his spiritual sense.


    "If I press on for another two to three months, I¡¯ll reach Fengyuan Kingdom," Lan Chang''an murmured, recalling the map in his mind.


    In terms of distance alone, a Core Formation cultivator wouldn¡¯t need that much time to traverse the desert. However, the harsh environment here slowed even a Core Formation cultivator¡¯s flight to a pace not much faster than that of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The deeper he ventured into the Flying Sand Desert, the more extreme and dangerous the natural disasters became.


    And yet, at the very heart of this deserty the Fengyuan Kingdom, a barren but rtively habitable region.


    This area contained small oases, minor mountain ranges, marshes, and other rare geographical features.


    In the very center of Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s territory stood an Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain, a miraculous sight in this otherwise scorching and arid desert.


    The Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain was a sacred mountain, worshiped by the eight major tribes of the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    This sacred mountain was also the cultivation sanctuary of Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s local Nascent Soul True Monarch, known as the Heavenly Master.


    ording to the knowledge of Lan Chang''an¡¯s fourth life, the Master Lihuo, this Heavenly Master was no ordinary early-stage Nascent Soul cultivator.


    As long as the Heavenly Master remained stationed at the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain, even a mid-stage Nascent Soul expert would find it impossible to take advantage of him.


    Years ago, a Nascent Soul cultivator from the Ten Thousand Poison Sect, who had defected and refined a terrifying poison beast, arrogantly proimed his superiority among peers of the same rank. Heunched an assault on the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain, wanting to take over its fourth-rank spiritual vein.


    The result? The traitorous Nascent Soul cultivator of the Ten Thousand Poison Sect was utterly annihted on the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain. His Nascent Soul didn¡¯t even manage to escape.


    Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s harsh environment, scarce resources, and the mysterious, powerful Heavenly Master who oversaw thend made it an ideal refuge.


    For this reason, Master Lihuo had arranged for some of his descendants to settle in this remotend in the past.


    "Enough of this¡ªI¡¯ll change my approach to travel!"


    The endless sandstorms and relentless dust had left Lan Chang''an both mentally and physically exhausted. His nerves were taut from the constant vignce.


    He decided it was time to adopt a morefortable method of travel.


    Extending his finger toward the spatial storage ring on his hand, he summoned a peculiar sand beast artifact.


    The artifact resembled arge, crocodile-like creature with short limbs and a grayish-yellow carapace.


    Lan Chang''an performed a series of incantation gestures, infusing it with mana. The sand beast artifact expanded to a length of nearly two zhang, standing as tall as an average adult.


    This was a sand beast cart, crafted from the body of a second-rank sand beast.


    The sand beast cart¡¯s top opened to reveal a hatch. With a sh of movement, Lan Chang''an entered the interior.


    Inside, the space was cramped, roughly the size of a small restroom.


    Thankfully, it was justrge enough for one person to lie down and restfortably.


    Sitting cross-legged with his eyes closed, Lan Chang''an began channeling mana to control the sand beast artifact, which started speeding across the desert¡¯s surface.


    Even if it encountered a sandstorm or sank beneath theyers of sand, the sand beast cart could still move, though at a slower pace.


    "Ahh... much better," Lan Chang''an sighed in contentment.


    Inside the sand beast cart, he mixed himself a chilled fruit juice to ease his mood in the stifling desert heat.


    This type of artifact, designed to resemble a sand beast, emitted a simr aura to that of desert-dwelling creatures. Its aura blended seamlessly with the natural environment, making it much less likely to attract the attention of sandworms or other desert beasts.


    Meanwhile, his Earth Burrowing Rat burrowed through the sand ahead of him, scouting the path and warning of any potential dangers.


    ...


    Two or three monthster.


    In the vast desert, Lan Chang''an had skillfully evaded numerous dangers, asionally hunting down a few reckless sand beasts to serve as wild game for his meals.


    The distance to Fengyuan Kingdom was growing shorter by the day.


    "In about ten more days, I¡¯ll reach Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s nearest settlement¡ªthe Scorpion Deste City," Lan Chang''an estimated as he adjusted his position on the map he checked daily.


    The Fengyuan Kingdom, centered around the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain, was home to eight major tribes. These tribes had each established one of the eight deste cities.


    These deste cities were built in rtively habitable oases, where the environment had been modified to resist natural disasters and sandstorms, standing firm for tens of thousands of years.


    Like branches extending from a central trunk, these cities were distributed across the Fengyuan Kingdom, facilitating trade andmunication.


    The strength of these eight tribes wasparable to that of Core Formation sects in the Liang Kingdom.


    Since ancient times, the tribes of Fengyuan Kingdom had worshiped and revered the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain, offering tributes to gain its divine protection and thus maintaining a foothold in the harsh desert.


    Squeak!


    The Earth Burrowing Rat, which had been scouting ahead, had discovered something unusual and was sending out a warning.


    "What¡¯s the situation?"


    Lan Chang''an remained calm. By this point, he had already passed through the most dangerous stretches of the journey.


    In the desert regions closer to the Fengyuan Kingdom, powerful sand beasts were rare.


    Instead, the moremon threat came from sand bandits.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    And indeed, as Lan Chang''an extended his spiritual sense, the scene several li ahead became clear to him.


    A group of sand bandits d in leather armor and beast-hide robes was attacking a medium-sized sand beast cart, which stretched seven to eight zhang in length.


    "Big brother, don¡¯t damage them too much! The female cultivators of the Xuan Yin Pavilion are all beauties, skilled in music and dance."


    "Heh, brothers, once we¡¯ve had our fun, we can sell them for a fortune on the ck market!"


    The sand bandits consisted of two Fake Dan cultivators and five or six Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Leading them were two dark-skinned men who bore a striking resemnce to one another¡ªthe infamous ck Scorpion Brothers.


    Notorious in the area, the ck Scorpion Brothers hadmitted countless atrocities, from robbery and murder to the abuse of female cultivators and human trafficking.


    Inside the medium-sized sand beast cart, four or five female cultivators, all fair-skinned and beautiful, were defending themselves. They wielded various musical instruments as their magical tools¡ªqin, flutes, and xiao¡ªunleashing radiant beams of sound and waves of resonant power to repel the attackers.


    However, the defensive formation of the sand beast cart was flickering and on the verge of copse.


    "Sisters, hold on! Once Elder Jiang neutralizes the poison, she¡¯ll surely defeat the ck Scorpion Brothers!"


    Among the Xuan Yin Pavilion cultivators was a Fake Dan female cultivator, tall and muscr with a bare upper body. Her booming voice carried as she pounded on arge waist drum, unleashing bursts of beastly roars filled with baleful energy. The soundwaves caused the bandits nearby to tremble, their blood churning and their nerves fraying.


    "I thought Xuan Yin Pavilion cultivators were all supposed to be graceful and dainty beauties¡­"


    From the other side of the battlefield, Lan Chang''an¡¯s small sand beast cart quietly maneuvered around, keeping a safe distance from the ck Scorpion Brothers and their bandits.


    The burly female cultivator, Miao Jing, was a rare outlier among Xuan Yin Pavilion disciples. Born with immense strength, she had chosen a drum-type musical magical treasure as her weapon.


    The other three female cultivators in the sand beast cart were more in line with Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s usual reputation¡ªwillowy waists, paleplexions, and long ck hair.


    Two of the women werete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, while thest was dressed in a white robe. This white-robed female cultivator exuded an air of serene elegance, like a lotus blooming in clear water. However, her face was pale, her forehead darkened, and her lips trembled as she sat cross-legged in the sand cart, attempting to heal herself.


    This white-robed woman was none other than the Elder Jiang that the burly cultivator Miao Jing had mentioned¡ªJiang Ruotong, the genius of Xuan Yin Pavilion.


    "Jiang Ruotong, a musical prodigy from Xuan Yin Pavilion, with True Dan cultivation¡­ and now she¡¯s poisoned," Lan Chang''an mused as his spiritual sense swept over her, recognizing her identity.


    More precisely, it was his fourth-life Master Lihuo who recognized this woman.


    Jiang Ruotong had once been renowned as a genius of Xuan Yin Pavilion, both talented and beautiful.


    One of Master Lihuo¡¯s descendants, a disciple of the me Departing Pce, had even pursued Jiang Ruotong romantically.


    At one point, the Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s Pavilion Master had learned of this and sought to arrange a marriage between Jiang Ruotong and Master Lihuo¡¯s descendant.


    After reviewing Jiang Ruotong¡¯s background, Master Lihuo had agreed, finding her a worthy match for his descendant. He had met with the Xuan Yin Pavilion Master to finalize the engagement.


    However, during the war caused by the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s northern expansion, Xuan Yin Pavilion was the first Liang sect to fall.


    Later, the pavilion relocated to the Fengyuan Kingdom, and the me Departing Pce faced its own crisis under the pressure of the Golden Sun Sect¡¯s invasion. The marriage arrangement was abandoned.


    In the years since, Jiang Ruotong had lived up to her reputation as a prodigy, sessfully forming her True Dan.


    ...


    "Fellow Daoist passing by, could you lend us a hand? Xuan Yin Pavilion will surely reward you generously in the future!"


    Miao Jing, bare-armed and beating her waist drum, noticed the small sand beast cart passing on the sidelines and shouted her plea.


    The cart was surrounded by a concealing barrier, making it impossible for her to probe the identity of its upant. However, she was certain the owner was at least a Fake Dan cultivator.


    "Your Excellency should not be nosy! But if you¡¯re interested, help us out, and we, the ck Scorpion Brothers, can sell you one of these Xuan Yin Pavilion women at a discount!"


    The ck Scorpion Brothers had also noticed the small sand beast cart and alternated between threats and temptations to dissuade its upant from interfering.


    Unbeknownst to them, the Xuan Yin Pavilion sand beast cart still held a poisoned True Dan cultivator, Jiang Ruotong.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I, Xu, will not intervene," Lan Chang''an replied in a calm, schrly tone, transmitting his voice outward.


    "Smart choice!"


    Relieved, the ck Scorpion Brothers grinned wickedly and intensified their attacks.


    Inside the Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s sand beast cart, a sudden spurt of blood erupted from Jiang Ruotong¡¯s mouth. Dark blood patterns appeared on her forehead, and her condition deteriorated rapidly.


    "Elder Jiang!"


    Miao Jing and the other four female cultivators paled in terror, their faces full of worry.


    "What¡¯s happening? I gave Elder Jiang the Scarlet Wind Antidote Pill!" Miao Jing stammered in panic.


    Jiang Ruotong had been hunting exotic beasts in the desert when she was bitten by a strange insect and poisoned.


    Sweeping his spiritual sense over her, Lan Chang''an¡¯s lips twitched in disbelief, suppressing the urge to facepalm.


    Recalling when he reformed his Core and impersonated the Xuan Yin Pavilion disciple named Liu Qingyan back then, he couldn¡¯t help but scold via voice transmission:


    "Ridiculous!"


    "She¡¯s afflicted with Yin Chill Poison, and you gave her a heat-purging antidote? Are you trying to kill her faster?"

 Chapter 290: The Scorpion Desolate City

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an indeed didn¡¯t make a move but merely sent a voice transmission to remind them.


    "Ah... Did I use the wrong antidote?"


    Miao Jing, the robust and sturdy woman, flushed red with embarrassment upon realizing she had made a mistake.


    Earlier, Jiang Ruotong had been struck by a potent poison, leaving her body weak and her consciousness unclear. Miao Jing had been the one to handle the antidote.


    In the desert, most toxins are highly lethal. The Scarlet Wind Antidote Pill was a general-purpose antidote, so she instinctively used it.


    "Senior, what medicine should I use now?"


    Miao Jing opened her storage pouch and asked through voice transmission.


    "Hmm, let some of her blood out first. Then have her take the Lotus Cleansing Pill and the Vital Energy and Blood Pill from your storage pouch," Lan Chang''an advised after a brief moment of thought.With the experience and insight of a Nascent Soul cultivator, coupled with his own studies in medicine, an ordinary third-rank famous physician couldn''tpare to him.


    "Understood. Many thanks, Senior..."


    Miao Jing quickly expressed her gratitude and followed Lan Chang''an''s instructions.


    After rying his guidance, Lan Chang''an¡¯s small sand beast cart left the troubled area.


    Momentster.


    From the desert behind, a wave of True Dan-level magical power surged forth, apanied by the sound of a zither that rang like the shing of metal and the neighing of warhorses.


    "Lan has always kept his word. If I say I won''t make a move, I won''t make a move..."


    Inside the sand beast cart, Lan Chang''an was loungingfortably, sipping on iced fruit wine.


    From his spirit pet pouch, his Profound Water Turtle used ice and water-based magic to maintain a cool and pleasant temperature inside the cart.


    Meanwhile, his Earth Burrowing Rat continued scouting ahead through the sandyers.


    After traveling several dozen li.


    The medium-sized sand beast cart from the Xuan Yin Pavilion swiftly caught up from behind.


    A soft and elegant voice called out, "Jiang Ruotong of Xuan Yin Pavilion extends her gratitude to this Fellow Daoist for your assistance earlier."


    From the medium-sized sand beast cart, a graceful and delicate female cultivator in a white dress flew out. She looked to be around twenty-three or twenty-four years old.


    Jiang Ruotong¡¯s fair face was pale as snow, herplexion still poor due to lingering poison injuries. Nevertheless, she came to express her gratitude at the first opportunity.


    Not long ago, after recovering part of her True Dan power, she summoned her magical treasure and sessfully scared off the group of sand bandits.


    "Fairy Jiang, you misunderstand. I, Xu, didn¡¯t make a move," Lan Chang''an replied indifferently.


    What he had done earlier was merely a gesture of reciprocity.


    He had no intention of cultivating ties with Xuan Yin Pavilion under the identity of ¡°Liu Qingyan.¡±


    For one, he hadn¡¯t studied musical cultivation techniques and was unfamiliar with thework of connections in Xuan Yin Pavilion, making it difficult to impersonate anyone effectively.


    Secondly, Xuan Yin Pavilion wasn¡¯t an ideal faction to align with in Fengyuan Kingdom.


    It wasn¡¯t about their strength.


    Xuan Yin Pavilion wasposed entirely of female cultivators. Their beauty,bined with the power of their music cultivation techniques, inevitably attracted envy, covetous intentions, and constant trouble.


    "Even if Fellow Daoist didn¡¯t make a move, your golden words saved our lives. At the very least, this youngdy would like to know your name, so I may repay your kindness in the future," Jiang Ruotong said gracefully as she approached the small sand beast cart, bowing politely.


    "In this humble one¡¯s case, I am but a nameless figure. Xu Xuan," Lan Chang''an said after a brief pause, reporting the name he had used in his previous life.


    In the unfamiliar Fengyuan Kingdom, having the goodwill of a True Dan elder from Xuan Yin Pavilion might prove useful in the future.


    "So it is Mister Xu. Would you be willing to visit our Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s sand beast cart? Several sisters would like to offer their modest musical skills for your enjoyment," Jiang Ruotong invited gently.


    "There¡¯s no need! Fairy Jiang should focus on eradicating the remnants of the poison and restoring your full power," Lan Chang''an replied.


    "Mister Xu¡¯s noble and untainted demeanor is truly admirable," Jiang Ruotong said, her gaze flickering as surprise filled her heart.


    Outside, many male cultivators admired and pursued Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s female disciples. Even if they couldn¡¯t obtain anything romantic, they would still leap at the chance to hear their ethereal music, which could help them ovee inner heart demons.


    As the youngest elder of Xuan Yin Pavilion, Jiang Ruotong had personally extended an invitation. Yet, this Mister Xu had resisted both beauty and benefits without hesitation.


    For most male cultivators, not taking advantage of the situation would already be considered rare.


    This mysterious and virtuous cultivator inevitably sparked Jiang Ruotong¡¯s curiosity.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s medium-sized sand beast cart had been traveling alongside his own for some time.


    At first, Lan Chang''an thought they were doing it deliberately, perhaps with some hidden agenda against him. After all, with his appearance, physique, and wealth, he was impable in all aspects. While traveling in the outside world, one had to remain vignt, even toward female cultivators.


    However, after some discussion, Lan Chang''an learned that Xuan Yin Pavilion just happened to share the same route as him.


    Both parties were heading to the nearest ¡°Scorpion Deste City¡± to restock supplies before continuing on to their final destinations.


    Once Jiang Ruotong hadpletely purged the remnants of her poisoning, she extended another invitation.


    This time, Lan Chang''an epted.


    Considering that the female cultivators of Xuan Yin Pavilion were not particrly adept atbat¡ªnone of thembined could even rival his Earth Burrowing Rat¡ªLan Chang''an saw no harm in joining them. Moreover, this was an opportunity to learn about Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s current state of affairs, helping him prepare for establishing a foothold here.


    Two hundred years ago, the fourth life Master Lihuo had traveled through Fengyuan Kingdom. However, detailed and up-to-date information about the region was still something Lan Chang''an needed to gather personally.


    Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s medium-sized sand beast cart was far more spacious than Lan Chang''an¡¯s. With simple decorations and soft carpeting, it offered afortable interior.


    The space was about fifteen square meters, which allowed Lan Chang''an to sit with the five female cultivators without feeling cramped. Still, the closeness left only a one- or two-foot gap between them, which felt slightly intimate.


    The subtle fragrances of the women surrounded Lan Chang''an, each with its unique charm. Even though most of it was perfume, the scents were derived from rare and high-grade natural materials, making them refreshingly pleasant.


    Aside from the Fake Dan Miao Jing the other four women, including Jiang Ruotong, were ssic beauties with fair skin, flowing long hair, and elegant celestial robes.


    Jiang Ruotong took the lead in conversing with Lan Chang''an, answering his questions and resolving his doubts.


    Meanwhile, the other four women yed their zithers and other instruments. The ethereal and refined music filled the cart, creating an illusion of being amidst mountains and flowing streams, surrounded by birdsong and fragrant blooms.


    Amidst the scorching desert, apanied by such grace and elegance, Lan Chang''an found himself in a serene and enjoyable atmosphere, appreciating the fleeting moments of beauty.


    The path he pursued was nothing but eternal life and true freedom.


    ¡°Several days ago, with just a few words, Mister Xu guided me in suppressing the deadly poison quickly. May I ask, Mister Xu, are you an alchemist or apothecary?¡±


    Jiang Ruotong asked as she sliced fruits and served Lan Chang''an a cup of iced tea.


    The ¡°Mister Xu¡± in front of her appeared to be in his thirties or forties, dressed in simple green robes. Handsome and refined, his bearing was elegant, and his words carried a sense of extraordinary wisdom.


    On the surface, his cultivation appeared to be in the Fake Dan stage, but Jiang Ruotong firmly believed that he was concealing his true strength.


    To cross the treacherous Flying Sand Desert alone with such ease andposure was something no ordinary Fake Dan cultivator could achieve. He was most certainly a reclusive master.


    ¡°Indeed, Xu is an alchemist,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with his usual schrly and amiable demeanor, taking a light sip of the third-rank spirit tea personally brewed by Jiang Ruotong.


    When it came to the identity of ¡°Xu Xuan,¡± Lan Chang''an imed to hail from the vast and resource-rich Feng Kingdom. He exined that he had previously been a reclusive wandering cultivator.


    Fearing conscription to the frontlines due to demonic invasion, he had chosen to flee to Fengyuan Kingdom for safety.


    In recent years, many cultivators had sought refuge in Fengyuan Kingdom after escaping the Righteous Dao Alliance. Thus, Jiang Ruotong wasn¡¯t surprised by his story.


    When she brought up topics rted to Feng Kingdom to test him, she found that this refined Mister Xu was remarkably knowledgeable, quoting history and culture with ease. His familiarity with Feng Kingdom was so thorough that it couldn¡¯t possibly be faked.


    The fourth life Master Lihuo, who hadunched an invasion on the Feng Kingdom, naturally knew the country well enough.


    ¡°Mister Xu, are you perhaps a third-rank alchemist?¡±


    Miao Jing, sitting nearby, couldn¡¯t hold back her curiosity. Her tone carried a sense of hopeful anticipation.


    Since Lan Chang''an had entered the cart, she had swapped her sleeveless outfit for a long dress. However, her robust physique now felt constrained and ufortable in the more formal attire.


    ¡°More or less,¡± Lan Chang''an nodded lightly, neither confirming nor denying it.


    Currently, he was indeed a genuine third-rank alchemist, though he had never showcased such skills in the Liang Kingdom before.


    Hearing his acknowledgment, Jiang Ruotong and the others lit up with excitement, their gazes toward Lan Chang''an taking on a new level of respect and admiration.


    In the Fengyuan Kingdom, resources were scarce, and herbs for alchemy were even rarer. This had led to a severe shortage of high-tier alchemists, elevating their status far above even those in the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    While the Fengyuan Kingdom was rich in mineral resources and had an abundance of artifact refiners and even some puppet masters, it severelycked high-tier alchemists. Without them, the cultivation path of the nation¡¯s sects faced significant limitations.


    ¡°May I be so bold as to invite Mister Xu to be a Guest Elder of Xuan Yin Pavilion?¡±


    Despite knowing the chances were slim, Jiang Ruotong made her proposal sincerely.


    Years ago, Xuan Yin Pavilion had suffered a devastating attack on their mountain gate. Only a portion of their elite cultivators had managed to relocate to Fengyuan Kingdom, it could be said that their talents were withering away.


    Their previous third-rank alchemist waspletely lost, and given Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s harsh environment, cultivating someone of that level again was an incredibly daunting task.


    Without a third-rank alchemist, Xuan Yin Pavilion couldn¡¯t sustain itself, nor could it produce more Core Formation cultivators.


    Jiang Ruotong herself, as the only True Dan cultivator born after Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s migration, was a product of their dwindling reserves.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that Xuan Yin Pavilion has a rule of not admitting male cultivators?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression turned curious.


    For a sect of female cultivators to extend an offer of a Guest Elder position to a man¡ªit was the stuff of dreams for countless male cultivators.


    ¡°That was a rule in the cultivation world of Liang Kingdom¡­¡±


    Jiang Ruotong smiled bitterly and exined the circumstances.


    Years ago, in order to establish a foothold in the Fengyuan Kingdom and avoid the covetousness of various factions, Xuan Yin Pavilion had no choice but to break its old rules.


    For exceptionally skilled individuals, or those who could help the sect thrive, they began granting Guest Elder positions to male cultivators.


    To further bind such high-level talents to the sect, Xuan Yin Pavilion even went as far as arranging marriages between these men and their most beautiful and capable female disciples.


    Of course, these were rare exceptions. Ordinary male cultivators, no matter how talented, were still not admitted.


    ¡°If Mister Xu agrees, I can personally guarantee that among the hundreds of female cultivators in Xuan Yin Pavilion¡ªexcluding the Pavilion Master¡ªany woman you choose can be your Daopanion or concubine,¡± Jiang Ruotong said solemnly, her tone sincere without the slightest hint of jest.


    Lan Chang''an was inwardly shocked.


    The once-pristine Xuan Yin Pavilion, whose female disciples were aloof and celebrated in Liang Kingdom, now had to lower their pride so drastically to recruit him, even throwing open their doors in such an extravagant manner.


    It was like a beauty pageant where he could select anyone at will.


    Indeed, a fallen phoenix was no better than a chicken.


    Hearing Jiang Ruotong¡¯s offer, the four other female cultivators blushed deeply.


    They lowered their heads in embarrassment, but their gazes asionally flickered toward the refined and dignified Mister Xu, their eyes sparkling with admiration and other emotions.


    Even the sturdy Miao Jing appeared somewhat shy, sneaking nces at Lan Chang''an with a hint of newfound interest.


    ¡°Xu has only recently arrived in the Fengyuan Kingdom and cannot make such a decision lightly,¡± Lan Chang''an replied tactfully, politely declining the offer.


    Jiang Ruotong sighed softly, making no further attempts to persuade him but asking that he consider the matter in the future.


    The four other women looked visibly disappointed.


    ¡°By the way, who is Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s current Pavilion Master?¡±


    Lan Chang''an asked, recalling certain intelligence.


    ¡°The Pavilion Master is my martial aunt, Fairy Ni Yue. Mister Xu may have heard of her name,¡± Jiang Ruotong replied.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ¡°So, it¡¯s Fairy Ni Yue. I once heard of her great reputation while in Feng Kingdom,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a respectful tone.


    Over a hundred years ago, during the opening of the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, Lan Chang''an had caught a fleeting glimpse of the leading ¡°Fairy Ni Yue.¡±


    At that time, she was recognized as the number one beauty in Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    Now, this Fairy Ni Yue had be the leader of Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s new generation.


    ...


    Six dayster.


    The harsh sandstorms along the route gradually began to subside.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s small sand beast cart asionally passed through deste oases, hills, and water reservoirs where spiritual energy was scarce.


    asionally, Fengyuan Kingdom cultivators would appear on the road.


    Most Fengyuan Kingdom cultivators were robust and muscr, with bronze or yellowish-brown skin. Among them, the proportion of body-refining cultivators was significantly higher than in the nations of the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Lan Chang''an observed that at least 40% of the cultivators either practiced body refining on the side or were pure body-refining cultivators.


    This trend was closely rted to the harsh environment of the Fengyuan Kingdom. The region offered rtively abundant resources for body refinement, making such cultivation methods more suitable.


    By this point, Lan Chang''an had reached the vicinity of Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s borders.


    The closer he got to the nation, the more stable the desert climate became, even making it suitable for mortal habitation.


    Since ancient times, the central region of the Flying Sand Desert, where Fengyuan Kingdom was located, had always been more stable and livablepared to its surrounding regions.


    The Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain and numerous oasis cities, and spiritual grounds established by indigenous tribes over tens of thousands of years had gradually improved the desert environment.


    Inside the sand beast cart, Lan Chang''an was processing the useful information he had gathered from Jiang Ruotong.


    In Fengyuan Kingdom, aside from the eightrge oasis cities¡ªknown as the Eight Great Deste Cities¡ªthere were also numerous scattered spiritualnds and oases.


    The Eight Great Deste Cities were controlled by indigenous tribes and served as their strongholds. These cities offered tributes to the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain.


    upying medium-torge spiritual veins and fertilends, these cities were extremely hostile to cultivators from outside their region, whom they referred to as foreign cultivators or outsiders.


    Foreign cultivators were often treated unfairly in the Eight Great Deste Cities. Oppression wasmon, and being robbed or killed by indigenous cultivators wasn¡¯t unusual.


    Foreign merchants and cultivators entering the cities were required to pay spirit stones to apply for a temporary Residence Permit.


    This permit was valid for a maximum of one year and required renewal and re-approval upon expiration.


    While the cities¡¯ rules nominally protected foreign cultivators with permits, this protection only extended to the surface. As long as it wasn¡¯t tant or public, deaths of outsiders within or near the cities were typically ignored.


    Fortunately, the Eight Great Deste Cities were not the only powers in the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Over the past ten thousand years, the southeastern region of the nation had be home to arge number of outsider factions, collectively known as the Outer Sect Alliance.


    This alliance initially consisted of several sects butter grew to include numerous cultivation ns and merchant organizations. They had established various oases, spiritual veins, and even immortal cities.


    Only a portion of the cultivators in the Outer Sect Alliance came from the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Many others hailed from east of Liang Kingdom, beyond the toxic marsnds, in cultivation world ruled by factions such as the Five Poisons Sect and the Thousand Mechanisms Sect, that region was rife with conflict and instability.


    Among the forces of the Outer Sect Alliance, there were even ns established by deserters and traitors from the Five Poisons Sect and the Thousand Mechanisms Sect.


    There, one could easily purchase puppets and poisonous artifacts.


    Naturally, the indigenous tribes controlling the Eight Great Deste Cities viewed the Outer Sect Alliance as a thorn in their side. shes and skirmishes weremon, and even small-scale cultivation wars had erupted in the past.


    Eventually, the two sides reached a truce, agreeing to coexist and conduct trade.


    This oue was driven by two main reasons:


    One, the indigenous tribes of the Eight Great Deste Cities were gued by internal conflicts and blood feuds, preventing them from uniting against amon enemy.


    Secondly, the Heavenly Master of the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain rarely involved themselves in matters beyond the Eight Great Deste Cities, maintaining an aloof and transcendent stance.


    Additionally, the Outer Sect Alliance had its own Nascent Soul-level backing. However, due to theck of fourth-rank spiritual veins, there were no permanently stationed Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    ¡°First, I¡¯ll settle in the Scorpion Deste City for two years, familiarize myself with the local environment, and exchange resources¡­¡±


    ¡°Afterward, I¡¯ll head to the Outer Sect Alliance¡¯s territory. The trade in cultivation materials there is more prosperous, which will be beneficial for acquiring Life Extension Pills and advancing my puppet refinement techniques¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an began formting a rough n.


    The fourth life Master Lihuo had left behind descendants and offspring in some of the medium-torge oases of the Outer Sect Alliance.


    That region was rtively livable, with abundant vegetation and spiritual energy. It was also less conspicuous, making it an ideal ce for low-profile development.


    Of course, this was just one of the options Lan Chang''an was considering.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    Lan Chang''an stepped out of the cramped sand beast cart and took to the sky with his flying light.


    Meanwhile, the Xuan Yin Pavilion female cultivators were traveling aboard a pavilion-shaped magical treasure that flew through the air.


    Since they were all heading to Scorpion Deste City, Lan Chang''an epted their invitation to board their pavilion magical treasure.


    ¡°Mister Xu, applying for a Residence Permit as a foreign cultivator in the Deste Cities is not an easy task. You may encounter difficulties or even deliberate obstruction. With Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s rmendation, we can help save you some trouble,¡± Jiang Ruotong said with a smile.


    Without a Residence Permit, foreign cultivators were essentially undocumented in the Deste Cities, making it nearly impossible to move about freely.


    The appearance, skin tone, and spiritual aura of foreign cultivators differed significantly from those of the indigenous tribes, making them easily identifiable.


    ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll trouble Fairy Jiang,¡± Lan Chang''an said, cupping his hands in gratitude.


    ¡°No need to be so formal, Mister Xu,¡± Jiang Ruotong replied with a graceful smile.


    Even if Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t join Xuan Yin Pavilion, maintaining a good rtionship with him would be beneficial. In the future, they could seek his help with alchemy.


    Before sunset, the pavilion magical treasure arrived at a lush oasis surrounded by hills,kes, and marshes.


    In the center of this verdant hignd stood a massive ancient city with ck-brown walls.


    The scale of the city surpassed that of Huanglong Immortal City. Its walls and towers were adorned with sharp, menacing spikes, giving it an aggressive appearance.


    From a distance, the city resembled a colossal ancient ck scorpion coiled in the yellow sands of the desert.


    Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s pavilion magical treasure hovered outside Scorpion Deste City.


    After a moment, a muscr, bronze-skinned man d in ck armor approached Jiang Ruotong. He stood atop a ck carapace artifact the size of a small boat, his expression warm and enthusiastic.


    ¡°Fairy Jiang, I¡¯ve been eagerly awaiting your return. Futah has greatly missed your heavenly voice¡­¡±


    The armored man spoke the universalnguage of the cultivation world, though his pronunciation was awkward and carried a local ent.


    With a sweep of his spiritual sense, Lan Chang''an determined that this man¡¯s cultivation was only at the ninth level of Qi-Refining. However, his body refinement had reached the quasi-third rank.


    Such cases were exceedingly rare in the nations of the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    ¡°Mr. Xu, this is Futah, the deputy city patrol general of Scorpion Deste City,¡± Jiang Ruotong introduced.


    As Futah¡¯s gaze fell upon the schrly, fair-skinned, and refined-looking Lan Chang''an, a flicker of disdain appeared in his eyes.


    In the tribes of the Deste Cities, fair-skinned, refined men were often seen as weak andcking in bloodlust.

 Chapter 291: Overlord Body Poison Refinement

    Chapter 291: Overlord Body Poison Refinement


    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Futah cast a nce at Lan Chang''an, his tone lukewarm as he casually greeted him.


    Jiang Ruotong, with her graceful demeanor and a faint, captivating smile, politely sought Futah¡¯s assistance.


    ¡°An entry permit? Leave it to me,¡± Futah dered confidently.


    His gaze lingered on Fairy Jiang, whose beauty was as pure as a lotus emerging from clear water. His eyes burned with intensity, and he licked his cracked lips before thumping his chest in assurance.


    The men of the desert tribes often disdained the delicate and refined men from outside. However, they yearned deeply for the serene elegance and snow-white beauty of female cultivators from beyond theirnd.


    After all, the desert shaped its people. The women of the aridnds were often rugged and muscr, with a rtively lower proportion of beauties.


    Some of the female cultivators among the locals were body refiners¡ªsome even fully dedicated body cultivators¡ªresulting in a fair number with imposing, muscr builds.


    Thus, the female cultivators of Xuan Yin Pavilion were unrivaled beauties in the Fengyuan Kingdom, regarded as paragons of both talent and charm. Their arrival was a divine descent into the desert, a stark contrast to the local aesthetic.Futah dared not dream of winning Fairy Jiang''s favor, though she upied his every fantasy. If he could merely secure a marriage match with one of the female disciples bestowed by Xuan Yin Pavilion, it would be enough for him to revel in pride among his tribe.


    However, the female cultivators of Xuan Yin Pavilion, influenced by their own standards of beauty and customs, mostly dismissed the rugged, dark-skinned men of the desert tribes.


    ¡°Immortal Xu! I¡¯ll apany you to process your entry permit,¡± Futah said as he walked over to Lan Chang''an with a bold and boisterous demeanor. He pped Lan Chang''an¡¯s shoulder with arge, calloused hand in a seemingly friendly gesture.


    But that seemingly light pat contained severalyers of Futah¡¯s strength as a quasi third-rank body refiner.


    An ordinary Fake Dan cultivator might have suffered a hidden injury or at least lost face under such force.


    Yet when Futah¡¯s palmnded on Lan Chang''an¡¯s shoulder, it was as if it had struck a stone in a vast ocean¡ªthere wasn¡¯t even the slightest ripple.


    After this test, Futah instinctively abandoned his initial contempt.


    For Lan Chang''an to withstand his strike so effortlessly, there were only two possibilities: either Lan Chang''an¡¯s body refining was at a levelparable to Futah, or his magical power was so abundant and refined that it dissipated Futah¡¯s force without a trace, all without rming the surrounding cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t deliberately hold back. He knew that if the people of the desert tribebeled him as weak or an easy target, he¡¯d only face greater trouble and unfair treatment in the future.


    Futah led Lan Chang''an to a tower at the edge of the city walls. There, they encountered a genuine Fake Dan cultivator with sharp, hawk-like eyes and brown skin.


    This cultivator¡¯s spiritual perception was formidable, and he excelled in investigative techniques. From their conversation, Lan Chang''an discerned that this Fake Dan cultivator held a higher status than Futah.


    Futah¡¯s body refinement followed the true path of body cultivation, where his physique exhibited extraordinary traits. His Qi-Refining cultivation was merely supplementary, adding versatility to hisbat methods.


    True body cultivators required strategic resources on par with a Crystal Condensation Pill to break through the second or third rank. Moreover, the fourth rank heavenly tribtion was even more terrifying.


    Their lifespans were typically about ten percent shorter than their Qi-cultivating counterparts at the same level.


    In contrast, Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation path was the opposite of Futah. He focused on Qi cultivation, with body refinement as a secondary practice to enhance his resilience and margin for error.


    In less than fifteen minutes, after a straightforward process of questioning, investigation, and evaluation, Lan Chang''an obtained an entry permit engraved with a ck scorpion design.


    Of course, it wasn¡¯t free.


    While the entry permit itself only required a fee of 100 spirit stones, Futah demanded an additional 600 spirit stones, a bottle of second-rank pills, and two spirit herbs as a ¡°hard work fee.¡±


    Half of the spirit stones were immediately handed over by Futah as bribe to the Fake Dan cultivator handling the inspection.


    Lan Chang''an inwardly mused that Futah was both greedy and cunning. He had not only used Jiang Ruotong to build goodwill but had also taken the opportunity to extort Lan Chang''an.


    Still, Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t overly resentful. At least Futah got things done efficiently, and his demands weren¡¯t entirely unreasonable.


    ¡°Immortal Xu, with this entry permit, you¡¯re free to move around Scorpion Deste City and trade without obstruction. If you run into trouble, just mention my name, Futah. The local tribesmen won¡¯t make things difficult for you!¡±


    Futah was in high spirits, pleased with his profitable haul.


    ¡°Good! If trouble arises, I¡¯ll be sure to invoke your esteemed name, Lord Futah,¡± Lan Chang''an responded cheerfully.


    Futah¡¯s expression froze momentarily. The customary boastful remarks of desert tribesmen had actually been taken seriously by this young man?


    No matter. If any real trouble came, Futah could always feign ignorance or take the opportunity to squeeze Lan Chang''an for more.


    ...


    With the entry permit in hand, Lan Chang''an joined Fairy Jiang and the other women from Xuan Yin Pavilion as they entered Scorpion Deste City together.


    Futah had patrol duties and couldn¡¯t apany them further.


    Watching the backs of Lan Chang''an and Fairy Jiang as they flew side by side, chatting andughing, Futah couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of envy.


    The serene and reserved Fairy Jiang, usually so cold and aloof, had smiled more times today than in all of Futah¡¯s previous encounters with herbined.


    Still, he dared not provoke Lan Chang''an. The man¡¯s origins and strength were unknown, making him a potentially dangerous figure.


    Once inside the city, Lan Chang''an parted ways with Fairy Jiang and herpanions, declining their invitation to stay at the same inn.


    He had noticed that the female cultivators of Xuan Yin Pavilion attracted an extraordinary amount of attention in the desert tribes¡ªlike celebrities under the spotlight.


    After a brief tour of the city, Lan Chang''an observed that over 80% of the poption were native cultivators. Their skin tone, clothing, and ents made them easily distinguishable.


    Outsiders ounted for less than 20% and included merchants, refugees, and a few who had married into the local tribes.


    The city¡¯s shops and buildings were predominantly constructed from stone¡ªstone fortresses and stone halls¡ªwith very few wooden structures.


    After visiting several stores, Lan Chang''an confirmed that the prices here were generally lower than in Liang Kingdom.


    First- and second-rank pills and spirit herbs were in high demand and considered scarce resources.


    On the other hand, materials for artifact refining and puppetry were priced several percent lower than in Liang Kingdom.


    The market was favorable for profits, but the people were not.


    Lan Chang''an keenly sensed the hostility, disdain, and greed in the eyes of the native cultivators as they looked at him.


    Some shopkeepers even quoted him prices that were 10¨C20% higher than those offered to locals.


    In Lan Chang''an¡¯s view, the cultivation civilization of the Fengyuan Kingdomgged behind that of the Righteous Dao Alliance.


    Not to mention Feng Kingdom¡ªFengyuan couldn¡¯t evenpare to Liang Kingdom.


    Yet, the native cultivators of Fengyuan carried an inexplicable pride.


    They regarded themselves as heirs to an ancient desert civilization, a ¡°superpower¡± with a long history and the miracle of thriving in the barren sands under the leadership of the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain.


    To them, all outsiders were either struggling in minor cultivation nations orcked the grit honed by desert life. Thus, they believed outsiders should revere and admire their tribal greatness.


    When a shop assistant asked Lan Chang''an if he was amazed by the greatness of Scorpion Deste City, Lan Chang''an replied with a calm smile:


    ¡°Fengyuan Kingdom is the greatest ancient nation I¡¯ve ever seen. Scorpion Deste City is thergest immortal city I¡¯ve encountered in my life. Truly magnificent!¡±


    "Esteemed guest, you have great insight, but unfortunately, our Deste City Tribe doesn¡¯t easily ept external cultivators¡ªunless they are beautiful and virtuous female cultivators..."


    The shop assistant, pleased by Lan Chang''an¡¯s insight, revealed quite a lot of information and unspoken rules of the city to him.


    Subsequent transactions were even priced at fair market rates.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    Lan Chang''an rented a third-rank spirit vein cave dwelling in the highest area of Scorpion Deste City.


    Due to the barrennd and the scarcity of spirit veins, the rental price of a third-rank cave dwelling here was actually slightly higher than in the Liang Kingdom.


    Seeing that Lan Chang''an was an outsider, the official in charge of renting the cave dwellings raised the price by 50%, attempting to pocket the difference.


    ¡°Vice Commander of the Patrol, Futah, is my referrer. How dare you take advantage of me and inte the price? Do you have the guts to confront me at the Chief¡¯s residence?¡±


    Lan Chang''an bellowed, his voice firm and full of confidence, adopting the demeanor of someone with a powerful backer.


    ¡°Your Excellency lower your voice...¡±


    The official, guilty and apprehensive, quickly relented and rented the cave dwelling to Lan Chang''an at the standard price for a one-year term.


    The cave dwellings in the desert city were rough fortress-like structures. The materials used were strong and sturdy, but the interior was rtively crude.


    Lan Chang''an felt like he had entered a kiln. asionally, a few grains of sand would even fall from the walls.


    The formations protecting the dwelling wereckluster as well. Despite being a third-rank spirit vein dwelling, it was only equipped with a simple superior second-rank formation.


    Lan Chang''an took the time to reconfigure and upgrade it with a proper third-rank formation and restrictions.


    Upon arriving in Scorpion Deste City, Lan Chang''an, despite having a wealth of resources he could trade to make a fortune, did not act rashly.


    For the first few days, he focused on understanding the local situation and unspoken rules.


    As someone new to the region, showing off wealth in such a xenophobic environment would only invite trouble.


    Five dayster.


    Fairy Jiang and the other Xuan Yin Pavilion women bade farewell to Lan Chang''an, leaving him with their contact information.


    The Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s base of operations was located within the territory of the Outer Sect Alliance. Afterpleting their trades in the city, they were preparing to leave Scorpion Deste City.


    Before parting, Jiang Ruotong reminded Lan Chang''an of two key points:


    ¡°Mister Xu, when trading with the shops or merchants in the city, remember to pay with one hand and deliver with the other. Never trust verbal promises.¡±


    Lan Chang''an nodded, already aware of this.


    The desert tribesmen were notorious for theirck of honesty in dealings with outsiders. They often neglected on debts.


    ¡°Also, Mister Xu, please do not reveal your identity as a third-rank alchemist. Otherwise, I fear it will be difficult for you to leave this ce...¡±


    ¡°Thank you for the reminder, Fairy Jiang.¡±


    Lan Chang''an understood that Jiang Ruotong¡¯s second piece of advice was not entirely selfless.


    While it was true that alchemists captured by the desert tribes could be forced to work tirelessly in dark chambers refining pills day and night, third-rank alchemists were a different matter.


    For someone of his caliber, the upper echelons of the desert tribes would likely treat him with respect. If he found a reliable backer, he could even integrate into the city¡¯s elite ss with special privileges.


    Jiang Ruotong¡¯s warning came partly from goodwill, but also from a desire to prevent Lan Chang''an from being recruited or bought off by other forces.


    To ensure his identity as an alchemist remained a secret, Jiang Ruotong had even made the other female cultivators swear oaths to keep it a strict secret.


    ...


    Over half a yearter.


    Lan Chang''an spent his 213th year in Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s desert city.


    That day, in his stone fortress cave-dwelling, Lan Chang''an carefully sealed a jet-ck liquid into a ck bottle, applying restrictive seals to ensure its safety.


    The liquid, resembling ck ink, was a middle third-rank poison called Corrupted Heart Poison.


    If a Core Formation cultivator were poisoned, their internal organs, meridians, and even their True Dan could be severely corroded, drastically weakening theirbat strength.


    For Fake Dan cultivators, their inferior ¡°Gray Core¡± would fail to resist for even ten breaths before their bodies turned into a puddle of corpse water.


    The poison¡¯s drawback was itsck of subtlety¡ªit was neither colorless nor odorless.


    For it to be effective, the target had to either inhale it or have it enter their body through an open wound.


    ¡°Lucky me,¡± Lan Chang''an murmured with a warm smile. ¡°The most critical ingredient for the Corrupted Heart Poison was surprisingly easy to purchase from a tribal oasis near Scorpion Deste City.¡±


    The vast deserts of the Fengyuan Kingdom were home to terrifying venomous creatures, such as snakes, scorpions, and even certain poisonous nts.


    Materials that were rare and hard to find in the Righteous Dao Alliance were often unexpectedly abundant here.


    As the economic and trade hub of the Fengyuan Kingdom, Scorpion Deste City was surrounded by scattered oases, hills, andkes.


    At these tribal oases, specialty resources could often be purchased for far cheaper than within the city itself.


    Over the past half-year, Lan Chang''an used the Hundred Illusions Mask to create a variety of identities, conducting trades with shops, merchants, and nearby oases. He had acquired a significant amount of resources through this method.


    The desert tribesmen had a strong demand for pills and spirit herbs from outsiders.


    Lan Chang''an sold off many of his surplus low-grade pills and spirit herbs, earning a substantial profit.


    Not only did he exchange them for useful resources, but he also increased his spirit stones by 10,000 to 20,000.


    Some of the more valuable materials he intended to sellter in the Outer Sect Alliance, where their worth would be far greater.


    It was said that the Outer Sect Alliance had ess to even more terrifying poisons and ancient puppet-crafting inheritances.


    Among the spoils he had looted from the in Huang Lan Immortal were spiritual beast cubs and beast eggs. However, Lan Chang''an had no intention of selling these in Scorpion Deste City.


    He assigned his two pet beasts¡ªthe Earth Burrowing Rat and the Profound Water Turtle¡ªto care for the spiritual beast cubs.


    Initially, due to ack of experience, a few weak cubs died.


    Upon inspection, it turned out that several of the cubs and eggs contained earth-grade bloodlines.


    However, they didn¡¯t possess any particrly outstanding talents, so Lan Chang''an had little interest in investing further time and resources into raising them.


    Raising spiritual beasts to a level where they could be independent required a tremendous amount of resources, time, and effort.


    The Profound Water Turtle and Earth Burrowing Rat were rtively low-maintenance.


    The Profound Water Turtle mainly needed time to grow and didn¡¯t have high resource demands.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat was an omnivorous creature that often foraged for its own food.


    Unless it was a rare and powerful spiritual beast, like the Five-Colored Peacock with thin traces of true spirit bloodline, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t consider raising it.


    Among the other spoils from Huang Lan Immortal were materials for Crystal Condensation Pills and some materials for second- and third-rank Life Extension Pills.


    Lan Chang''an nned to refine these pills himself in the future once he gathered the remaining materials.


    By cutting out the middlemen, some costs could be saved.


    ...


    Two monthster.


    After spending a full year in Scorpion Deste City, Lan Chang''an visited the tribal administrative office in the city to extend his entry permit for another year.


    This time, without any middlemen, the renewal only cost him an additional 200 spirit stones.


    Lan Chang''an had also considered acquiring a native identity.


    However, given that he was living in a third-rank spirit vein cave-dwelling, an ordinary identity wasn¡¯t sufficient.


    A status equivalent to that of a Core Formation cultivator was required, but such figures were well-known and not easily reced within the tribe.


    Moreover, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t particrly enjoy the xenophobic environment of the desert tribes. This city was only a temporary stop for him.


    ¡°One more year here,¡± Lan Chang''an decided, ¡°and I¡¯ll cultivate the Golden Luo Overlord Body to the peak of the early third rank. Afterward, I¡¯ll head to the Outer Sect Alliance and find an oasis to cultivate peacefully...¡±


    He had a clear n for his future.


    The Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s focus on body refinement meant that the rted materials were widely avable and rtively abundant.


    Using various aliases, Lan Chang''an had already purchased numerous body refinement materials in Scorpion Deste City that would aid in the advancement of the Golden Luo Overlord Body.


    Lan Chang''an had been practicing body refinement for over 40 years after having transitioned to a new technique halfway, which had slightly slowed his progress.


    He estimated that within 10 years, he could advance the Golden Luo Overlord Body to the mid-third rank.


    Even in a country like Fengyuan, where body refinement was prominent, reaching the mid-third rank would make him a renowned powerhouse.


    Had it not been for the threat posed by the Peacock Saintess, Lan Chang''an would have preferred to remain in Liang Kingdom for another decade or two before fleeing to Fengyuan.


    On his way back to his third-rank cave-dwelling, Lan Chang''an sensed a faint trace of someone secretly watching him.


    This was nothing new¡ªevery time he ventured out, he experienced such surveince.


    As a lone outsider who kept to himself and cultivated in seclusion, he naturally stood out in the xenophobic tribal environment.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t overly concerned. The strongest cultivator in Scorpion Deste City, the Scorpion Chief, very likely didn¡¯t surpass the Peacock Saintess in power.


    After all, the Six Great Demonic Sects represented the pinnacle of the Great Qing cultivation world, and Fengyuan Kingdom¡¯s tribal cultivators were far inferior byparison.


    As long as he avoided falling into traps or being ambushed by a group of cultivators of simr strength, his life wouldn¡¯t be at risk.


    Furthermore, every two months, Lan Chang''an used divination to assess his fortune.


    ...


    A hundred feet away, inside a crystal tower.


    "That¡¯s the so-called ¡®Immortal Xu¡¯ mentioned by Futah?¡±


    A cold voice came from a young man in a fur cloak, standing by the window. His hair was tied in a long braid.


    ¡°Yes, Young Maser Ada. ording to some rumors, this man is said to possess valuable pills and spirit herbs brought in from outside the desert,¡± replied a ck-faced elder at thete Foundation Establishment stage, bowing respectfully.


    The braided youth was named Ada Wan, a nephew of the Scorpion Chief and son of the Deputy City Lord, a mid-Core Formation cultivator.


    Ada Wan was lean and wiry, with sunken eyes and a braid that reached his waist. His attire stood out even among the locals of Scorpion Deste City as very unconventional.


    ¡°Ridiculous!¡±


    Ada Wan sneered, his expression full of disdain.


    ¡°Over the past year, the influx of pills and spirit herbs into the city has increased slightly, but it has yet to break the 20-year record. Attributing this to a single Fake Dan outsider is pure nonsense.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right, Young Maser Ada,¡± the elder agreed, eager to please. ¡°In my opinion, it¡¯s likely Futah, the Vice Patrol Commander, is jealous of this Immortal Xu¡¯s rapport with Fairy Jiang from Xuan Yin Pavilion. He¡¯s spreading false rumors to provoke others into testing this man or even getting rid of him.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, blinded by lust. What¡¯s the point of women? Puppets are far more interesting,¡± Ada Wan said dismissively, waving the elder away.


    Once alone in the room, Ada Wan took out a puppet from his storage pouch.


    It was a female puppet with a human face and a dragon-like tail.


    The puppet had a beautiful, lifelike face, and its torso and arms were indistinguishable from a human¡¯s. Only its lower body, a sinuous tail resembling that of a flood dragon, revealed its artificial nature.


    ¡°Ada Wan, this ve missed you...¡±n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The puppet¡¯s dragon tail coiled around Ada Wan¡¯s body, and the room was soon filled with heavy breathing.


    Plop!


    Suddenly, one of the puppet¡¯s eyeballs fell to the ground, apanied by a ssh of viscous liquid.


    ¡°Sigh,ck of resources again. The materials used on Ah Jiao aren¡¯t high enough in rank,¡± Ada Wan muttered, his tone tinged with regret.


    ¡°I should¡¯ve lowered my standards for crafting a third-rank puppet. Using the legendary true spirit, the ¡®Human-Faced Flood Dragon,¡¯ as the model has made this way too difficult...¡±


    With a sigh, Ada Wan picked up the fallen eyeball and reinstalled it into the puppet¡¯s eye socket.


    Pop!


    As soon as the eyeball was inserted, it exploded, spraying liquid all over Ada Wan¡¯s face.


    ...


    Ten monthster.


    In his third-rank stone fortress cave-dwelling, Lan Chang''an was immersed in a golden-ck body refinement medicinal bath.


    His bronze-toned muscles rippled like hills, and faint golden scales shimmered on his skin. The qi and blood radiating from his body had reached the peak of the early third rank.


    His frame had grown to over ten feet tall, resembling a golden giant Arhat.


    At this point, with a single full-force punch, Lan Chang''an could easily break the protective shield of an early Core Formation cultivator. He could even directly sh with non-heavy low-grade magical treasures.


    ¡°With the Golden Luo Overlord Body cultivated to the peak of the early third rank, and the creation of a mid-third-rank poison like the Corrupted Heart Poison, my trip to Scorpion Deste City has been well worth it,¡± Lan Chang''an thought with satisfaction as he stepped out of the medicinal pool and dried himself off.


    Calcting the time, he realized he had two months left before his entry permit and cave-dwelling lease expired.


    Lan Chang''an decided to use the remaining time to craft a third-rank puppet.


    Before leaving Liang Kingdom, he had collected a significant amount of third-rank materials. During his stay in Scorpion Deste City, he had acquired even more puppetponents.


    Two monthster.


    A third-rank bow-wielding puppet had taken shape, though its key weaponponent had not yet been refined to the level of a magical treasure.


    ¡°The entry permit has expired,¡± Lan Chang''an murmured, storing the puppet away and calling his spirit pets back to his side.


    Leaving this third-rank cave-dwelling, Lan Chang''an sensed faint traces of covert observation again. However, as always, the gazes quickly withdrew, leaving no clues as to their origin.


    He paid them no mind.


    Before departing, Lan Chang''an cast a divination for fortune.


    The result was minor fortune. Whether it would hold true remained to be seen.


    Last year, when he found a key poisonous material near an oasis, he had also received a minor fortune reading at that time.


    Taking this as a sign, Lan Chang''an flew dozens of li away from Scorpion Deste City and transformed into the guise of a Fake Dan local. He nned to explore the nearby oases for resources.


    Two dayster.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s search yielded no unexpected treasures as he gradually approached the edge of Scorpion Deste City¡¯s sphere of influence.


    At one point, he flew into an area shrouded in sand mist.


    Sand mist was a natural desert phenomenonposed of unpredictable fog and windblown sand that could obscure a cultivator¡¯s senses.


    Low-level cultivators could easily get lost within it.


    ¡°Hmm? This isn¡¯t ordinary sand mist!¡±


    Lan Chang''an suddenly felt his breathing grow hot and his skin tingle. The golden scales on his body faintly flickered with lightning-like patterns.


    ¡°A third-rank poison! Who¡¯s there?¡±


    Amid the sand mist, Lan Chang''an¡¯s light shifted erratically as his figure wavered.


    So much for that minor fortune reading¡ªthis was clearly a dangerous start to the journey.


    ¡°Heh heh... Immortal Xu reacts quickly,¡± a sinister voice echoed.


    ¡°Tsk tsk, even after being exposed to a third-rank poison, you haven¡¯t copsed. It seems you¡¯re not one of those frail Core Formation cultivators.¡±


    At the other end of the sand mist, two or three figures emerged from the shadows.

 Chapter 292: River Source Oasis

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Three figures emerged from the sandstorm, blocking Lan Chang''an¡¯s path.


    They were a towering man with ck skin, d in heavy armor, standing about eight feet tall, resembling an iron tower. A gaunt,nky youth with a long braid, wearing a fur-lined cape, and a strikingly beautiful woman with a human face and a serpent¡¯s tail¡ªan exotic being of another race.


    Thud!


    A middle-aged man in green robes, schrly in demeanor, wobbled unsteadily before copsing onto the desert sands.


    ¡°Make it quick!¡±


    Ada Wan, his dark-rimmed eyes brimming with malice, formed a hand seal and issued amand.


    The ck-skinned giant roared, his body expanding to a height of over fifteen feet. His entire physique became covered in crimson-ck fur, while his hair stood up like steel needles.


    A shadow shed through the swirling sand. Within moments, the ck-skinned giant closed the distance to Lan Chang''an,ing within several dozen zhang.Before he fully approached, a massive, millstone-sized ck fist appeared in Lan Chang''an''s field of vision, radiating an oppressive and terrifying aura of vitality.


    Boom!


    A thunderous explosion echoed.


    A massive charred crater, spanning five to six zhang, appeared in the area where Lan Chang''an had been standing, sending a storm of yellow sand flying into the air.


    ¡°Is it over already?¡±


    Ada Wan seemed disinterested, disappointed by the seeming ease of the fight. A weak opponent meant low rewards.


    But it was to be expected. After all, a mere Fake Dan cultivator, poisoned by a third-rank venom, was naturally no match for a body cultivator¡¯s thunderous strike at the same level.


    The ck-skinned giant, a pure body cultivator, not only possessed unparalleled physical strength but also had unique body-refining abilities, making him a threat even to qi cultivators at mid-range.


    The special abilities of body cultivators varied depending on their cultivation techniques.


    In the Fengyuan Kingdom, there was once a quasi-fourth-rank body cultivator who unleashed a mighty shout, shattering the hearts of Core Formation cultivators several li away.


    ¡°Pure body cultivators are indeed extraordinary.¡±


    Within the haze of sand, the figure of the middle-aged man in green flickered and blurred.


    In an instant, he mysteriously appeared behind the ck-skinned giant.


    A fierce whistling sound tore through the air. A massive hand, adorned with golden patterns, struck horizontally toward the giant¡¯s back.


    ¡°This speed... A third rank body-refiner!¡±


    The ck-skinned giant¡¯s scalp tingled with dread. It was toote to dodge; he could only activate his defensive force to withstand the attack head-on.


    The palmnded solidly.


    Crack!


    The heavy armor shattered, followed by a series of sickening cracks as bones snapped.


    Veins bulged on the giant¡¯s forehead as he spat out a mouthful of blood. His massive body was sent flying, crashing into the desert sands.


    ¡°A third rank body-refiner who¡¯s also a qi cultivator?¡±


    From a distance, Ada Wan¡¯s eyes widened slightly in surprise, though he didn¡¯t panic.


    Meanwhile, an eerie female voice echoed.


    A blurry, shifting silhouette appeared beside Lan Chang''an in a sh.


    ¡°Keke...¡±


    The serpent-woman¡¯s eyes glowed with a hazy light, creating a strange distortion in the space around Lan Chang''an. His movements slowed noticeably.


    Snap!


    Lan Chang''an raised an arm, colliding with the phantom-like tail that swept toward him. He felt a strange, slippery texture that seemed almost unreal.


    The serpent-woman let out a muffled grunt as the force of the collision sent her flying. However, she appeared to suffer no serious injuries.


    ¡°This is... a third-rank puppet?¡±


    Only now did Lan Chang''an realize that the serpent-woman wasn¡¯t a living being but an incredibly lifelike puppet.


    Her intelligence, presence, and even her skin were so convincing that they could easily be mistaken for the real thing.


    The braided youth, it turned out, was a third-rank puppet master. The precision and craftsmanship of his puppets surpassed even Lan Chang''an¡¯s own expertise.


    The serpent-woman puppet¡¯sbat power was on par with that of an early stage third rank great demon!


    Coupled with the third-rank poison, this formidable lineup could easily overwhelm an ordinary Core Formation cultivator in the desert.


    Unfortunately for them, they had encountered Lan Chang''an.


    His Evergreen Technique¡¯s poison dissolution abilities, the anti-debuff resistance of his Golden Luo Overlord Body, and his almost mid-third rank body cultivation rendered this lineuppletely ineffective.


    Lan Chang''an now understood why the earlier divination had shown a minor fortune.


    ¡°Help! Young Master Ada, save¡ª¡±


    The ck-skinned body cultivator, still trapped in the desert sands, was suddenly engulfed by a massive swirling vortex of sand. His cries were abruptly cut off!


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly.


    ¡°So what if he¡¯s a body cultivator with special abilities? Against absolute strength and a higher cultivation realm, resistance is futile.¡±


    Body cultivation was arduous and resource-intensive, requiring both talent and resources. While their defense and survival capabilities were indeed impressive, theycked significant advantages when facing qi cultivators of the same rank in open terrain.


    ¡°Earth element great demon...¡±


    Ada Wan¡¯s expression darkened. His pupils constricted in fear, his calm demeanor finally giving way to panic.


    If Lan Chang''an were merely a third rank body-refiner or an early Core Formation cultivator, Ada Wan could rely on his numerical advantage to win.


    But with the addition of a terrifying earth element demon beast¡ªone that had already killed his strongest subordinate¡ªthis fight was now beyond his ability to handle.


    ¡°Esteemed Immortal Xu, please show mercy! My father is Ada Xi, the Deputy City Lord of Scorpion Deste City...¡±


    Sensing the dire situation, Ada Wan revealed his background and began retreating, controlling his puppets defensively.


    To showcase his strength and deter Lan Chang''an, he summoned two quasi-third rank beast-shaped puppets, positioning them on either side for protection.


    With this lineup, even a powerful Core Formation cultivator would struggle to kill him quickly, and the ensuingmotion would surely alert the nearby tribes.


    But what happened next left Ada Wan utterly horrified.


    Swish, swish, swish!


    Lan Chang''an lightly raised his hand, summoning five leather-armored archer puppets before him.


    Each bow radiated spiritual pressure, all at the Fake Dan level or higher.


    Two of them were True Dan-level puppets, while the remaining three were Fake Dan-level!


    ¡°This, how is this possible! A third-rank rank body-refiner and a third-rank puppet master?¡±


    Ada Wan¡¯s voice trembled, his sunken eyes nearly bulging out of their sockets.


    A third rank body-refinermanding an elite squad of high-grade puppets¡ªthis was a force meant for storming immortal sects and strongholds!


    ¡°Fire!¡±


    With a wave of Lan Chang''an¡¯s hand, the five archer puppets unleashed two volleys of arrows in quick session.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The numerous arrows, glowing with spiritual energy, tore through the sandstorm, leaving streaks of radiant light in their wake.


    ¡°Spare me, senior! Have mercy!¡±


    ¡°Quick! Block them¡ª¡±


    Ada Wan screamed in despair. He ordered his puppets to shield him, activated his defensive magical treasure, and stuck protective talismans to his body.


    Boom! Boom! Crack!


    The first volley of arrows obliterated the quasi-third rank puppets, his defensive magical treasure, and the talismans protecting him.


    The serpent-woman puppet, meanwhile, was ensnared by spiraling sand tendrils extending from the desert, unable to break free.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The second volley locked onto Ada Wan. His bloodshot eyes filled with rage and despair as he realized there was no escape.


    Despite being a third-rank puppet master, Ada Wan was merely a Fake Dan qi cultivator.


    To his utter disbelief, a third rank body-refiner had not only overpowered him but alsounching a group beating. Nowhere in the vast Deste City would he find anyone this shameless!


    ¡°Fu... Futah!?¡±


    The face of the green-shirted man he was staring at in death blurred gradually, transforming into a familiar face...


    Futah!!


    Before his death, Ada Wan¡¯s mind reeled with disbelief. Why had he tried to ambush Lan Chang''an?


    The root cause was Futah, who had spread rumors in the city, iming that Immortal Xu had brought arge supply of pills and spiritual herbs from the outside.


    But the true reason was simple: Ada Wan, desperate for resources to craft his puppets and short of spirit stones, had targeted an outsider who seemed like easy prey.


    It was merely tradition among the tribes of the Fengyuan Kingdom.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Swish, swish, swish¡ª


    Ada Wan¡¯s body was riddled with arrows. His dying screams echoed far across the desert, which Lan Chang''an didn''t iste.


    After Ada Wan¡¯s death, the resistance of the serpent-woman puppet diminished significantly, though it still disyed a survival instinct.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel intrigued. Could Ada Wan have imbued this puppet with an independent personality?


    Using his puppet-controlling technique and the assistance of the Earth Burrowing Rat, he restrained and sealed the puppet, storing it in his storage pouch.


    In just a few breaths, Lan Chang''an swiftly erased the traces of battle, collected his spoils, and recovered the arrows.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Changing his appearance to match Futah, Lan Chang''an headed toward the outskirts of Scorpion Deste City¡¯s territory.


    As he flew away, he encountered some tribal cultivators who couldn¡¯t avoid him in time and bowed respectfully.


    ¡°Ah! Vice Patrol Leader Futah?¡±


    Although Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t have Futah¡¯s blood, he had previously interacted with him and gathered a strand of his aura.


    Though this disguise wasn¡¯t perfect, the sandstorm¡¯s obscuration prevented anyone from noticing ws.


    Lan Chang''an knew Futah might not take the me willingly, but since this man had orchestrated the events that led to Ada Wan¡¯s ambush, he didn¡¯t mind muddying the waters further.


    Before leaving, he decided to create a bit more trouble for Futah¡ªjust for fun.


    ...


    "Huh? Who¡¯s calling me?"


    Dozens of li away from the scene of the battle, Futah emerged stealthily from Scorpion Deste City, ncing around in confusion, his expression filled with suspicion.


    The voice seemed to be an illusion¡ªhe hadn¡¯t actually heard anything.


    As a vice patrol officer of the city, Futah had been aware of Ada Wan¡¯s covert operation.


    His original intention had been to use Ada Wan to probe Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength. If thetter proved weak, Futah could achieve his goal of "borrowing a knife to kill someone" with minimal effort.


    Driven by a sudden impulse, Futah had followed from afar, hoping to either enjoy the spectacle or pick up any spoils that remained after a potential mutual defeat between the two sides.


    What he didn¡¯t know was the extent of Ada Wan¡¯s puppet master skills¡ªor the mysterious strength of this so-called ¡°Immortal Xu.¡± Perhaps, Futah thought, this could result in a mutually damaging oue.


    At a critical moment, if Futah lent Ada Wan a helping hand, he might win the favor of the powerful scion of a tribal noble family¡ªan opportunity that would be great help to his future.


    ¡°Strange, the sound of fighting disappeared all of a sudden...¡±


    After searching the area for a long time and finding nothing, Futah frowned, feeling that something was off.


    On his way back to the city, the sound of something tearing through the air approached rapidly.


    A familiar and oppressive aura caused Futah¡¯s heart to skip a beat.


    He wanted to hide, but the other party had already locked onto his presence with sharp senses.


    ¡°Futah, what are you sneaking around here for?¡±


    From the clouds above, a thunderous voice filled with anger boomed¡ªit was the Deputy City Lord.


    ¡°Ah! Futah greets the Deputy City Lord!¡±


    Futah shivered, unsure of what was happening, and hurriedly bowed respectfully.


    The speaker was Ada Xi, Ada Wan¡¯s biological father, and a mid-third rank body cultivator.


    That very night, word spread throughout Scorpion Deste City: Ada Wan had been killed, and Vice Patrol Officer Futah had been thrown into the dungeon.


    Among the popce, numerous rumors circted, but one version gained widespread eptance:


    It was said that Futah had secretly manipted Ada Wan into ambushing an outsider Immortal. Futah had nned to reap benefits after both sides were weakened and wounded.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    By this time, Lan Chang''an had already flown far beyond the influence of Scorpion Deste City.


    The further he went, the more barren the terrain became. Oases became increasingly scarce, and spiritual veins were practically nonexistent.


    The civilization of Fengyuan Kingdom originated from the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain, with major deste cities acting as critical branches. But the farther one ventured from these cities, the harsher the environment became¡ªdestends, resource-poor regions, and frequent natural disasters.


    At this moment, Lan Chang''an had no idea what sort of fate he had inadvertently set in motion for Futah with his simple, crude frame-up.


    Once beyond the city¡¯s sphere of influence, Lan Chang''an made some rough calctions using divination techniques.


    The result surprised him: Scorpion Deste City¡¯s leadership had neither pursued him nor issued a warrant for his arrest.


    From Lan Chang''an¡¯s perspective, Futah¡¯s strength was insufficient to fully take the me. But as long as Futah could serve as a distraction and absorb some of the bacsh, the intended effect had been achieved.


    On second thought, Lan Chang''an realized that Scorpion Deste Citycked a valid pretext to openly pursue him.


    For one thing, there was no proof tying Lan Chang''an to the death, especially since the most suspicious figure was already identified.


    Secondly, even if the truth were uncovered¡ªthat Ada Wan had attempted to rob Lan Chang''an but was killed in self-defense¡ªit would be considered his own fault. This would not stand on moral grounds.


    If such news were made public, it would only bring shame to the Scorpion Tribe.


    In the Fengyuan Kingdom, the tribes followed a philosophy of survival of the fittest. Weakness meant death, and plundering was a long-standing tradition.


    Deaths caused by robberies or battles were somonce that the tribes rarely formed feuds over them.


    Nheless, Lan Chang''an utilized the art of divination to obscure the situation further,plicating any attempts to trace him.


    This concealment technique worked particrly well against diviners with inferior skills to his own.


    In Fengyuan Kingdom, apart from the Heavenly Master of the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain, most tribesgged behind in the art of divination.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that the strongest diviner in the Scorpion Tribe might not even have reached third rank.


    Along the way, Lan Chang''an had already destroyed any suspicious items in Ada Wan¡¯s storage pouch.


    That night.


    Lan Chang''an stopped to rest in a sand cave, taking the opportunity to sort through his spoils.


    ¡°No wonder he resorted to robbery,¡± he muttered.


    Ada Wan was far poorer than Lan Chang''an had imagined. The spirit stones in his storage bag totaled only one to two thousand.


    Most of Ada Wan¡¯s wealth had clearly been spent on research and puppet-making.


    In particr, the serpent-woman puppet stood out.


    From Ada Wan¡¯s jade slips and personal research notes, Lan Chang''an discovered some interesting information.


    Ada Wan had obtained an ancient puppet-crafting technique known as the ¡°Record of Transformative Spirit Puppets¡±.


    This technique allowed for the infusion of puppets with independent intelligence and spirituality. However, it was insidious in nature, as it required the refinement of living souls.


    The manual also contained theoretical designs for puppets that mimicked the forms and abilities of ancient true spirits. However, these designs remained spective at best.


    Even if only their forms were imitated, such ¡°Exotic Spirit Puppets¡± would possess extraordinary powers andbat capabilities.


    Exotic Spirit Puppets were costly to produce, requiring two to three times the resources of standard puppets of the same rank.


    The serpent-woman was merely an iplete prototype, riddled with ws that prevented prolongedbat.


    From the perspective of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Nascent Soul-level insight, these puppet designs that sought to replicate the true spirit ancient divine beasts were nothing more than far-fetched fantasies.


    Complete forms of true spirits had never been witnessed on the Heaven Honoured Continent. At most, records of them existed in ancient texts or could be observed in rare creatures carrying diluted traces of their bloodlines.


    The Record of Transformative Spirit Puppets detailed six theoretical puppet designs mimicking ancient true spirits, including a Human-Faced Flood Dragon, a Five-Colored Peacock, and an Xuanmu Turtle.


    The core materials required for crafting these puppets included critical parts from beasts with true spirit bloodlines.


    Ada Wan, a genius with a touch of madness, had trusted these theoretical designs and spent years delving into their study.


    He managed to acquire substitute materials, lowering the requirements to create a castrated, defective version.


    To improve his chances of sess, he had even refined the soul and consciousness of his half-sister into the puppet.


    Ada Wan has falled in love with his sister, who was born with an inferior spiritual root. Before her lifespan reached its end, with her consent, he merged her soul with the culmination of his lifelong wisdom into one.


    ¡°There¡¯s a fine line between genius and madness,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    He couldn¡¯t help but admit that Ada Wan¡¯s puppet techniques surpassed his own in terms of innovation and depth of research.


    Obtaining Ada Wan¡¯s techniques and insights was Lan Chang''an¡¯s greatest gain from this encounter.


    The Record of Transformative Spirit Puppets had originally been acquired by Ada Wan after he killed a traitor from the Thousand Mechanisms Sect.


    ¡°The Thousand Mechanisms Sect... the holynd and originator of the puppet Dao in Great Qing...¡±


    As a third rank puppet master himself, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of yearning.


    It was said that the Thousand Mechanisms Sect had the capability to craft fourth rank Nascent Soul-level puppets.


    Everywhere else in the Great Qing, puppet techniques were capped below fourth rank.


    The Thousand Mechanisms Sect was the only power with aplete fourth rank puppet inheritance¡ªand the ability to actually produce them.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s greatest talent in this lifey in puppetry, along with his superior spiritual sense.


    Though the Record of Transformative Spirit Puppets was wed, it had given him valuable inspiration.


    ¡°Could I temporarily infuse the soul shadows of my second and fourth lives into a high-tier puppet?¡±


    ¡°If I used a powerful puppet as a physical vessel, and my fourth life¡¯s Nascent Soul cultivation sessfully possessed it, what kind of power could I unleash...?¡±


    ...


    Two monthster.


    Lan Chang''an traveled through the territories of two more desert tribes, crossing vast stretches of wilderness before finally reaching the Outer Sect Alliance in the southeastern region of Fengyuan Kingdom.


    During the journey, he avoided entering other deste cities. Instead, he traded at various oases and wends, selling unneeded items and replenishing supplies.


    By doing so, his dwindling supply of spirit stones surged back to a respectable 150,000 to 160,000.


    As he entered the Outer Sect Alliance''s sphere of influence, the environment became noticeably more hospitable. Oases and habitable areas dotted thendscape, and spiritual veins were more abundant.


    During his flight, he asionally came across caravans of camels, sand beast carts, small to medium-sized spiritual ships, and even wandering merchants or loose cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an could feel the vibrant atmosphere of free trade in the region.


    Every oasis and market he visited greeted him with a stark contrast to the cold, guarded stares of the deste cities. Here, cultivators often weed him warmly, exuding a sense of openness and hospitality.


    The Outer Sect Alliance had no true natives. Instead, cultivators from all over Fengyuan Kingdom and beyond had settled here to build their lives.


    Even some members of the desert tribes¡ªdue to various reasons¡ªhad migrated into the Alliance¡¯s territory.


    Sects, families, merchant guilds, and loose cultivators upied oases of various sizes, alongside spiritual veins and immortal cities, creating a diverse and thrivingmunity.


    After flying for a few more days, a massive oasis, spanning several hundred li, came into view.


    From above, Lan Chang''an could see towering mountains rising from the oasis, with arge river cutting through the forests and hills.


    Even from a distance, he could sense the abundant spiritual energy emanating from a medium-torge third-rank spiritual vein.


    ¡°This is the River Source Oasis. Rich in water resources, with vast forests and vibrant wood-attribute spiritual energy...¡±


    This was one of the key locations Lan Chang''an had nned to visit¡ªa suitable ce for retreat and cultivation.


    The information came from his fourth life Master Lihuo, who had identified it as a perfect refuge for healing and quiet cultivation.


    The River Source Oasis had no dominant sects or major powers.


    Its valuable resources were jointly controlled by several cultivator families and some powerful loose cultivators.


    About a few thousand li away from the oasis stood arge immortal city under the control of the Mysterious Mechanism Tower, one of the giants of the Outer Sect Alliance.


    The Mysterious Mechanism Tower was said to have been founded by defectors from the Thousand Mechanisms Sect, mainly dealing in the puppet-rted side of the business.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s main goal in Fengyuan Kingdom was to avoid trouble and cultivate in peace until he reached the mid-tote Core Formation stage.


    Immortal cities crowded withrge factions and countless eyes weren¡¯t suitable for his needs.


    The River Source Oasis, with its vibrant wood-attribute spiritual energy and more subdued power struggles, was his ideal destination.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Lan Chang''an arrived at a bustling market town on the eastern side of the River Source Oasis.


    After gathering some information, he discovered that the oasis only offered second-rank superior-grade spiritual veins for lease to outsiders.


    Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t in a hurry. With his refined skills and abilities, he was confident he¡¯d find a way to affiliate himself with a power that controlled a third-rank spiritual vein.


    Unconsciously, he wandered into a street of market stalls, taking the opportunity to survey local resource prices and gradually gather intelligence.


    Just then, Lan Chang''an felt a faint sense of connection¡ªa weak yet unmistakable resonance.


    It was simr to when Li Erqing passed away and disappeared into the cycle of reincarnation. However, this connection was much weaker.


    His gaze shifted,nding on a stall not far away.


    The stall owner was a pair of siblings selling a variety of items: talismans, magical weapons, books, antiques¡ªa little bit of everything.


    The older brother, d in a fitted outfit, appeared to be in his early twenties. He had rugged features, thick eyebrows, andrge eyes, giving off a sincere and good-natured impression.


    The younger sister, wearing a light blue pleated dress, looked about seventeen or eighteen years old. Her delicateplexion, rosy lips, and slender white wrists were adorned with a bracelet of bells.


    Ding!


    The bracelet emitted a crisp and melodious chime.


    The girl¡¯s heart lifted with joy, a smile blooming on her face as she nced at the approaching middle-aged man in green robes.


    ¡°Senior, is there anything you need? This little girl can assist you with your selection,¡± she said warmly.


    Every time her bracelet chimed, it seemed to bring her good luck¡ªand more spirit stones.

 Chapter 293: Waiting for the Right Price

    "Little girl, what is your surname?"


    Lan Chang''an paused at a small stall, picking up a talisman to examine it as he casually asked the question.


    The girl in the blue dress had a graceful charm about her, evoking a sense of familiarity in him.


    Somewhere, in a past life, he had met her. Their rtionship had been close.


    Her elder brother, standing nearby, looked at Lan Chang''an with a hint of vignce upon hearing his question.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time such a situation had urred.


    His sister¡¯s pure and delicate beauty, along with her sharp intellect, often attracted male cultivators. Many believed they were lowering themselves by approaching her, confident that they could offer her a better life.


    When these suitors learned that the siblings owned a shop in the busiest marketce at the heart of the oasis, they often retreated in shame, bing the butt of jokes. ¡°Responding to senior, this humble girl¡¯s surname is Yun.¡±


    The girl in the blue dress, her eyes sparkling, responded crisply, her voice as clear as a bell.


    The middle-aged man in green robes standing before her had fair skin and a schrly elegance, his extraordinary aura making it difficult to discern his cultivation level.


    Her instincts told her this person was different from the presumptuous suitors who had approached her before.


    Yun?


    Lan Chang''an remainedposed, his expression unchanged as he examined the first-rank superior-grade talisman in his hand. The intricate craftsmanship of the talisman¡¯s inscriptions far surpassed that of most loose talisman masters.


    ¡°Miss Yun, how much for this jade carving?¡±


    He then picked up a miniature green jade carving of a turtle. Its round, chubby form looked innocent and adorable, reminding him of the young Profound Water Turtle from its juvenile years.


    ¡°This is a handmade craft of mine, a mascot for the stall. If senior likes it, you can pay whatever you feel is fair.¡±


    Yun Ling¡¯s dimples appeared as she smiled sweetly, her voice like silver bells swaying in the wind.


    ¡°I am an alchemist,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a faint smile, spreading his palm to reveal a small bottle of pills. ¡°While traveling, I was attacked by bandits and am now penniless. Would you ept a trade with pills instead?¡±


    ¡°Second-rank Beauty Nourishment Pills!¡±


    Yun Ling¡¯s eyes brightened. After opening the bottle to inspect the pills, she happily agreed to the exchange.


    The materials for the green jade turtle hadn¡¯t cost more than half a spirit stone.


    However, the intricate craftsmanship infused with her spirit made it priceless in her heart. She convinced herself with this reasoning.


    ¡°Senior, why don¡¯t you take a few more talismans while you¡¯re at it?¡±


    Yun Ling, feeling a bit guilty, suggested.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. Some things are priceless to the heart.¡±


    The Profound Water Turtle inside Lan Chang''an¡¯s spirit beast pouch seemed to have taken a liking to the little jade turtle.


    Lan Chang''an cast a nce at the bell bracelet on Yun Ling¡¯s wrist, leaving behind a meaningful sentence before standing up and departing.


    ¡°Ling¡¯er, wasn¡¯t that jade turtle supposed to be a non-seble item¡­?¡±


    Yun Hao, her elder brother, muttered under his breath.


    ¡°Ling¡¯er saw that senior truly liked it! Besides, this was a profitable trade¡­¡±


    Yun Ling¡¯s delicate face flushed a rosy pink as she exined, her expression radiant and lively.


    ¡°Is that so?¡±


    Yun Hao, staring at his sister¡¯s face, judged with his lifelong understanding of her expressions that she was most likely lying.


    Yun Ling snorted softly and ignored her brother¡¯s suspicious gaze.


    The man who had introduced himself as "Xu" had given her an inexplicable sense of familiarity and warmth. Without thinking too much, she had agreed to sell the beloved jade mascot to him.


    As she watched the figure of the middle-aged man in the green robe disappear into the distance, Yun Ling¡¯s eyes sparkled with confusion.


    ...


    ¡°A bond of reincarnation? Could there really be such coincidences in the world?¡±


    Walking away from the stall area, Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes flickered with a strange light as he murmured to himself.


    It wasn¡¯t surprising to encounter the bloodline descendants of the fourth life Master Lihuo here in this vast oasis.


    After all, it was based on his memories of that past life that Lan Chang''an hade to this oasis¡ªa ce with an abundance of wood-attributed spiritual energy¡ªseeking a suitable spot for secluded cultivation.


    Yun Ling¡¯s appearance bore a striking resemnce to the most cherished Daopanion of the fourth life.


    This was what gave Lan Chang''an the sense of familiarity.


    However, despite facing the bloodline descendant of his fourth life, he didn¡¯t feel any strong familial affection. At least, nothing obvious.


    Lan Chang''an spected that the fourth life might differ in nature from the first two lives.


    It seemed more like an experience¡ªa simtion of a Nascent Soul True Monarch¡¯s lifetime.


    The rules of the Nine Seal Stele had forcibly condensed that life into one of his nine reincarnations.


    What made this encounter particrly coincidental was the fact that Yun Ling was not only a descendant of the fourth life¡¯s bloodline.


    In her previous life, she had shared an intimate bond with this lifetime¡¯s Lan Chang''an.


    Inside the spirit beast pouch, the Profound Water Turtle fiddled with the handmade miniature turtle, its gaze filled with nostalgia as if recalling a familiar figure from the past.


    If even the turtle bonded to him in spirit could sense such ties, how could Lan Chang''an, who possessed the Nine Seal Stele, remain unaffected?


    When meeting significant individuals from his past lives, should their souls reincarnate and their paths cross again, he would be able to recognize their former identities.


    That bell bracelet Yun Ling wore was an artifact rted to divination and fortune-telling.


    However, its grade was low, and it required proximity to detect good fortune or auspicious signs, making its practical use minimal.


    It was like foretelling an impending cmity only when it was right upon you¡ªfar toote to be useful.


    When Master Lihuo was young, he had used this item to explore the art of divination, eventually passing it down to a female Daopanion.


    ¡°Qiaozhi, your circumstances in this life aren¡¯t bad. Your appearance and talent are both superior to your previous life¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an felt a sense of relief in his heart.


    Yet, he had no intention of revealing Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s past life identity to her. Doing so required a purer form of reincarnation energy, something that was currently beyond his reach.


    ...


    Before evening fell, Lan Chang''an had already purchased a substantial amount of supplies in the market, all paid for with pills.


    He even managed to exchange some of his pills for spirit stones.


    The highest-grade pill he sold reached the quasi-third rank.


    That night, rumors about a "destitute alchemist" selling pills at He Yuan Market began spreading across the oasis.


    This was all part of Lan Chang''an¡¯s deliberate n.


    Trading a second-rank pill for Yun Ling¡¯s jade mascot had been the first step.


    Second-rank and higher alchemists were extremely rare in desert oases and enjoyed an exalted status.


    Instead of actively seeking a faction to align himself with, Lan Chang''an opted to "wait for the right price" and let otherse to him with offers.


    The next morning.


    The forces in the oasis moved faster than Lan Chang''an had expected.


    By the next morning, the owner of the Pill Pavilion in He Yuan Market¡ªa white-haired, middle-stage Foundation Establishment elder¡ªpersonally came to visit him.


    After some polite exchanges, Lan Chang''an got straight to the point, exuding a faint, nearly imperceptible aura of Core power.


    ¡°Does the Three vors Pill Pavilion have a third-rank spirit vein supporting it?¡±


    Upon hearing this, the elder¡¯s expression changed. Bowing respectfully, he replied, ¡°The Three vors Pill Pavilion is far too insignificant. I ask Xu Immortal to forgive us for overstepping.¡±


    With that, he left behind a gift box and excused himself, retreating in reverence.


    A third-rank spirit vein¡¯s cultivation site in River Source Oasis was either controlled by a major power or upied by powerful loose cultivators.


    For a Fake Dan alchemist, demanding a third-rank spirit vein was no small matter.


    Over the next two days details about "Mister Xu" spread rapidly across the oasis.


    Weak factions steered clear, knowing they couldn¡¯t meet his requirements.


    Finally, three dayster, the first major faction in the oasis possessing a third-rank spirit vein extended an olive branch to Lan Chang''an.


    This was the Wan Hua Merchant Association¡ªthergestmercial organization in the oasis.


    The Wan Hua Merchant Association¡¯s business revolved around spiritual wood and herbs. Nearly half of the oasis¡¯s spiritual bamboo, wood, and medicinal herbs were supplied by them.


    It could be said that the association controlled the lifeline of most ordinary alchemists and medicinal shops in the oasis.


    Inside the guest room.


    The vice president of Wan Hua Merchant Association¡ªa goat-bearded elder with white hair and a youthfulplexion¡ªsat across from Lan Chang''an, wearing a confident smile. His demeanor was calm, as if he already had the upper hand.


    "Our merchant guild doesn¡¯t offer too much freedom to alchemists. At the very least, we require a fifty-year spiritual contract," the elder exined.


    ¡°You¡¯d need to provide an annual quota of second- and third-rank pills, train three apprentices within ten years, and in exchange, you¡¯d gain ess to a third-rank spirit vein, third-rank Earth Vein Spirit Fire, and countless lost pill recipes and exclusive alchemy techniques¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯d also supply an abundance of medicinal herbs for practice, aiding the alchemist¡¯s skill improvement and rank promotion. Naturally, our association isn¡¯t running a charity, and we wouldn¡¯t make an investment without returns. I¡¯m sure Xu Immortal understands this principle.¡±


    Lan Chang''an shook his head and proposed, ¡°President Lu, your association¡¯s restrictions are rather excessive. How about a more flexible cooperation model instead? I do not need your association¡¯s resources for training. Would you consider renting me ess to a third-rank spirit vein in exchange for an annual quota of pills?¡±


    ¡°Impossible!¡±


    The goat-bearded elder, President Lu, squinted his eyes and directly refused.


    Wan Hua Merchant Association already had a third-rank grand alchemist on staff and abundant alchemy resources and techniques, which gave them a strong appeal to external alchemists.


    Every high-ranking alchemist¡¯s growth required an immense amount of alchemical materials, not to mention that good alchemical inheritance was also an important factor.


    In this regard, the Wan Hua Merchant Association had an unparalleled advantage within the oasis¡ªeven major factions from Immortal Cities couldn¡¯tpare.


    ¡°Xu Immortal, why don¡¯t youpare the offers from different parties before making a final decision?¡±


    President Lu stood up with a confident smile before leaving.


    For any alchemist seeking to pursue higher ranks in their craft, the Wan Hua Merchant Association was undoubtedly the best choice in the oasis.


    Lan Chang''an had to admit this.


    However, he was also the first to eliminate the Wan Hua Merchant Association from consideration.


    President Lu had no way of knowing that Lan Chang''an¡¯s pursuit of alchemy ranked low on his list of priorities.


    Every cultivator¡¯s time and energy were finite.


    Even though Lan Chang''an had a long lifespan and plenty of leisure time, his current cultivation of multiple arts meant he had to make trade-offs.


    His talent in alchemy was mediocre. Even with a century of effort, he might struggle to reach mid-third rank.


    Rather than waste time on alchemy, it was better to focus on puppet refining, divination, or body cultivation¡ªfields where his talents truly shone.


    ...


    Two weekster.


    Lan Chang''an engaged with representatives from several factions across the oasis.


    As expected, the allure of a high-ranking alchemist was immense. Representatives from all the prominent factions in the oasis came forward to negotiate with him.


    Lan Chang''an portrayed his alchemical skills as being at the quasi-third rank level¡ªcapable of barely refining a small number of third-rank pills, albeit with a low sess rate.


    After careful screening, Lan Chang''an identified two rtively suitable options:


    One, the Long Family, a Fake Dan cultivation family, is barely capable of nurturing a third-rank spirit vein.


    The n had no True Dan cultivators, and their spirit vein was small, only capable of supporting a single Core Formation-level cultivator.


    Secondly, the Star Moon Merchant Association, on the verge of bankruptcy. This association had lost all their Core Formation cultivators and were willing to hire Lan Chang''an as a revered guest elder.


    However, the Star Moon Merchant Association was seen as a juicy target by many factions in the oasis. They offered the most generous and flexible terms, but joining them mighte with significant risks, including the possibility of bankruptcy.


    Both options had their limitations.


    For the Long Family, the third-rank spirit vein was rtively weak and unsuitable for long-term cultivation. If Lan Chang''an advanced to the mid-Core Formation stage, the spirit vein might no longer meet his needs. Worse yet, if the Long Family produced a Core Formation cultivator of their own, the resources would be even more strained.


    For the Star Moon Merchant Association, Lan Chang''an would have to share in their risks, including the crisis of potential bankruptcy.


    As of now, Lan Chang''an hadn¡¯t made a final decision and needed to investigate further.


    ...


    ¡°Could you make an exception and report to Immortal Xu? This humble girl knows Immortal Xu and has made a trade with him before.¡±


    On this day, the Yun siblings, whom Lan Chang''an had met earlier at the market, came to the inn to visit him.


    ¡°What could these two want from me?¡±


    Lan Chang''an pondered as he sensed their presence outside.


    At that moment, the Yun siblings were being blocked by the inn¡¯s hired guards¡ªFoundation Establishment cultivators.


    Lan Chang''an had explicitly instructed that only cultivators at the Foundation Establishment stage or above were permitted to have their visits reported.


    The Yun siblings, with Yun Hao at the ninthyer of Qi-Refining stage and Yun Ling at the eighth, didn¡¯t even qualify to have their presence announced.


    ¡°Let them in.¡±


    Lan Chang''an sent a message via voice transmission.


    Momentster, the Yun siblings entered his guest room, appearing slightly nervous as they bowed respectfully.


    ¡°Junior Yun Hao greets Immortal Xu.¡± ¡°Junior Yun Ling greets Immortal Xu.¡±


    ¡°You two have gone beyond your status to request this meeting. What is your purpose?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s tone was calm and indifferent, neither warm nor cold.


    In the world of cultivation, it was unheard of for Qi-Refining cultivators with no close ties to request an audience with an Immortal.


    However, out of consideration for their bond through reincarnation, Lan Chang''an gave the siblings this rare opportunity.


    Even though Yun Ling¡¯s previous life had been Guan Qiaozhi, he didn¡¯t intend to go out of his way to care for her. At most, he might lend a helping hand in passing.


    The concept of past and present lives was one of severing prior karmic ties. Most of the entanglements of karma were dissolved upon reincarnation.


    Only when karmic bonds were exceptionally strong, or there was a significant debt of gratitude or guilt, would they persist into the next life.


    In her previous life, Lan Chang''an had taken good care of Guan Qiaozhi, who had been one of his concubines. He had nurtured her to the ninthyer of Qi-Refining and even given her the opportunity to attempt Foundation Establishment. He owed her nothing.


    ¡°Immortal Xu, our grandmother sent us to pay you a visit and ask for your assistance in refining Foundation Establishment Pills,¡± Yun Hao replied steadily, trying to maintainposure as he spoke with humility and respect.


    Lan Chang''an scrutinized the siblings, impressed by theirposure despite facing a Core Formation master.


    Their appearances were refined, their temperaments above average, and they showed no signs of panic.


    Even their innate talents were decent.


    Yun Hao possessed high-grade spiritual roots, his spiritual energy pure and robust. He had cultivated to the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining.


    Yun Ling, on the other hand, had mid-grade spiritual roots. ording to rumors in the market, she had a natural aptitude for talisman-making and was particrly skilled at it.


    The siblings had lived in the marketce since they were young, making them native to this oasis.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t your grandmothere in person?¡± n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes flickered with curiosity as he probed further.


    The grandmother behind the Yun siblings might have a deeper connection to the fourth life.


    ¡°Our grandmother is in poor health and very frail. She said she didn¡¯t want to disturb or offend Immortal Xu,¡± Yun Ling replied softly.


    Lan Chang''an chose not to press further, as it mighte off as abrupt or suspicious.


    ¡°Have you prepared all the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pills?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve prepared everything!¡± Yun Hao said firmly. ¡°All that¡¯s missing is a skilled alchemist to ensure we each get genuine Foundation Establishment Pills.¡±


    Most of the materials had been gathered through the siblings¡¯ hard work in earning spirit stones over the years.


    Their grandmother had once said that flowers grown in a greenhouse would never amount to much, and thus, she insisted that the siblings experience the trials and tribtions of the cultivation world firsthand.


    ¡°The payment for refining the Foundation Establishment Pills will be thirty percent higher than the standard rate offered to second-rank alchemists in the marketce. Uponpletion, our grandmother also promises to rmend a peaceful and independent third-rank spirit vein cultivation site to Immortal Xu,¡± Yun Ling added in her gentle and melodious voice.


    ¡°Well then, what choice do I have? Who told this Xu to be poor,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a faint smile, agreeing to their request.


    He proceeded to finalize the terms and details of the transaction with the siblings.


    If three Foundation Establishment Pills were sessfully refined, one of them would belong to Lan Chang''an as part of his payment.


    ...


    That evening.


    After wrapping up their stall, the Yun siblings returned to their three-story shop located in the heart of the market district.


    On the top floor of the shop lived an elderly silver-haired woman, leaning on a cane, her expression kind and benevolent.


    ¡°Grandmother, Immortal Xu has agreed to take on our alchemymission,¡± the Yun siblings reported as soon as they reached the third floor.


    ¡°Hm, managing to invite a quasi-third rank alchemist to help is truly a stroke of fortune for you two,¡± the old woman said with a warm smile.


    Her face was etched with deep wrinkles, and dark age spots dotted her skin, making her advanced age apparent.


    She had originally intended for the siblings to endure more trials before attempting Foundation Establishment.


    However, the unexpected encounter with a down-and-out high-grade alchemist like Xu Immortal gave her reason to allow them to try their luck.


    Negotiating with a Fake Dan cultivator and conducting such a transaction would also help broaden the siblings¡¯ horizons.


    Moreover, the results of this alchemymission would serve to assess Immortal Xu¡¯s character and alchemical skills.


    ¡°Ling¡¯er, tell me more details about this Immortal Xu¡­¡±


    The old woman gestured for Yun Ling to stay behind and began asking her questions.


    The earlier transaction Yun Ling had with Immortal Xu was somewhat unusual.


    At the time, Yun Ling had described the situation as "inexplicable," concealing the fact that she felt a strange sense of familiarity and warmth toward him.


    This time, as she recounted the meeting, her cheeks turned slightly red. The same feeling had surfaced again when she saw Immortal Xu. Her heart felt unsettled, and she was filled with confusion.


    ¡°The world of cultivation is full of strange and wondrous encounters. It¡¯s not unusual to meet someone you feel a natural affinity for. The silver bell you wear has given you a sign of good fortune, which means that person bears you no malice,¡± the old woman exined with a kind smile.


    Though Yun Ling still felt perplexed, she nodded slightly and left the room, her thoughts unresolved.


    Now alone on the third floor, the old woman¡¯s expression turned contemtive.


    Invisible ripples spread across the third floor, revealing the presence of a hidden third rank restriction array that isted the space from the outside world.


    ¡°Strange¡­ Ling¡¯er¡¯s bloodline, when traced upward, shows no connection to any Core Formation cultivator,¡± the old woman muttered to herself, puzzling over the situation.


    She began calcting, her fingers moving in a series of subtle gestures.


    Her divination skills had only recently reached the second rank after years of practice, having been learned from herte husband.


    In the world of cultivation, when individuals with closely rted bloodlines encountered each other, it was not umon for them to feel a sense of familiarity or affinity.


    However, this varied greatly from person to person¡ªsome could sense it clearly, while others remained oblivious.


    ¡°It seems I¡¯ll have to wait until I meet this Immortal Xu in person to make further determinations.¡±


    The old woman sighed softly, unable to deduce any concrete answers.


    Then, with a wave of her hand, the lights on the third floor went out.


    Under the cover of darkness, she reached up and wiped her face.


    In an instant, the wrinkled, withered visage disappeared like smudges erased from a mirror.


    What remained was a face of breathtaking beauty¡ªelegant and wless, with skin as smooth as jade. Her features were regal and dignified, and her deep, star-like eyes seemed to conceal endless mysteries, capable of drawing one¡¯s soul into their depths.


    She now appeared to be a mature woman of about twenty-seven or twenty-eight, exuding an aura of refinement and nobility with every gesture.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    Lan Chang''an arrived at the Yun siblings¡¯ shop, "Treasure Pavilion," as per their agreement.


    This shop specialized in selling high-grade goods, starting at the second rank, including pills, talismans, magic weapons, antiques, and rare items.


    Each item¡¯s quality was superior to those of the same rank, but the prices were significantly higher, resulting in very few customers.


    The shopkeeper of Treasure Pavilion was none other than the silver-haired old woman, whom the locals respectfully referred to as ¡°Granny Yun.¡±


    ¡°Many thanks to Immortal Xu for taking on this task.¡±


    Apanied by the Yun siblings, Granny Yun walked slowly out of the shop to greet Lan Chang''an, bowing deeply as she spoke.


    Her cloudy eyes observed the refined, schrly middle-aged man in a green robe, and a faint feeling of warmth and trust arose within her heart.


    For some reason, she found Immortal Xu inexplicably pleasing to the eye and felt instinctive trust toward him, despite being certain that this was the first time she had ever met him.


    ¡°Shopkeeper Yun is too polite,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a smile, returning the greeting.


    As he approached Granny Yun, he felt a faint sense of connection¡ªa bond far weaker than the one he had felt with Yun Ling.


    Still, the contours of her face and the depth in her eyes confirmed her identity to him.


    ¡°Yun Yan, the only surviving legitimate wife and Daopanion of the fourth life Master Lihuo.¡±


    Lan Chang''an, with the memories of the fourth life, immediately recognized Granny Yun¡¯s origin.


    Before the fall of the me Departing Pce, Master Lihuo had arranged a false-death scheme for Yun Yan to ensure her survival.


    Though Yun Yan likely had ess to Youth Retaining Pills and excelled at self-care, she had clearly used some secret technique to artificially age her appearance. As a True Dan cultivator, she still had at least two hundred years of lifespan remaining.


    Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly, reflecting on how the Master Lihuo¡¯s untimely and sudden death had left his wife and descendants to fend for themselves.


    The Yun siblings, as descendants of the Master Lihuo, should have borne the surname "Duan," yet it had been changed to "Yun."


    ¡°Immortal Xu, please follow me,¡± Granny Yun said hoarsely, leading Lan Chang''an to the shop¡¯s backyard, where a private alchemy room awaited.


    ¡°These are the materials for the Foundation Establishment Pills. Please examine them, Immortal Xu,¡± she said, opening a storage pouch andying its contents before him.


    Lan Chang''an carefully inspected the materials and found that the main ingredient for the pills was a pure and exceptional demon core from a beast with earth-grade bloodline.


    ¡°Everything is in order,¡± Lan Chang''an confirmed, storing the materials as he approached the pill furnace. He then sat cross-legged, activating the array and igniting the spirit fire.


    ¡°Immortal Xu, may we observe from a distance? We promise not to disturb your process,¡± Granny Yun suggested.


    ¡°That won¡¯t be possible. My unique alchemy techniques do not allow for outsiders to watch,¡± Lan Chang''an replied apologetically.


    Much of his third rank alchemy skill came from the fourth-life Master Lihuo¡¯s legacy. He didn¡¯t want Yun Yan to notice anything unusual.


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll leave you to your work,¡± Granny Yun said, not pressing the issue. She ushered the Yun siblings out of the alchemy room and closed the door.


    Standing outside the sealed room, Granny Yun¡¯s expression turned contemtive.


    ¡°Could it be that Immortal Xu practices some strange technique, one that makes all female cultivators feel naturally drawn to him?¡±


    A few dayster.


    The alchemy room¡¯s door opened, releasing a surge of heat.


    ¡°How did the pills turn out?¡±


    The Yun siblings, who had been waiting anxiously outside the entire time, quickly stepped forward. They hadn¡¯t opened their stall for days.


    Amid the warm mist, Lan Chang''an extended his hand, revealing three Foundation Establishment Pills.


    The pills shimmered with a soft glow, their surfaces smooth and lustrous, each engraved with four dao marks.


    ¡°Three pills, all standard genuine quality,¡± Lan Chang''an said calmly, considering this a standard performance.


    For ordinary alchemists, theck of practice materials often hindered their sess with Foundation Establishment Pills. However, the fourth life Master Lihuo had no shortage of resources, granting Lan Chang''an a wealth of experience in refining such pills.


    The payment for the pills themselves wasn¡¯t what interested Lan Chang''an.


    What piqued his curiosity was the promise made by the Yun family¡ªto rmend him to a peaceful and independent third rank spirit vein cultivation site.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 294: Puppet Clone

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    In the alchemy room of the Treasure Pavilion, Granny Yun arrived upon hearing the news to assess the three Foundation Establishment Pills that Lan Chang''an had refined.


    "These are all genuine Foundation Establishment Pills with very few impurities. Alchemist Xu''s skill in pill refinement is extraordinary. I am impressed," Granny Yun praised with great approval.


    The Yun siblings were overjoyed, their faces brimming with smiles.


    Through a single alchemy session, both siblings had obtained Foundation Establishment Pills. This not only saved financial resources and time but also reduced significant risks.


    "Alchemist Xu, this is your reward," Granny Yun said as she kept two of the pills and handed the remaining one to Lan Chang''an.


    This was in ordance with their prior agreement.


    If three Foundation Establishment Pills were sessfully refined, Lan Chang''an would keep one as hispensation.


    This session of pill refinement fostered mutual understanding between the two sides,ying the groundwork for trust.Granny Yun had acknowledged Lan Chang''an''s alchemy skills.


    All three pills were of great quality, and his alchemy process was both fast and steady.


    With such proficiency, he was at least a quasi-third rank alchemist.


    Moreover, Alchemist Xu had imed publicly that he could refine certain third-rank pills, although his sess rate for such pills was not high.


    In the first-floor reception hall of the Treasure Pavilion, Granny Yun personally prepared tea for Lan Chang''an, engaging in casual conversation for a while.


    During this time, Granny Yun discreetly observed this ¡°Mister Xu,¡± noting his appearance and demeanor. She confirmed that he bore no resemnce to anyone from her memories.


    "Could it be some kind of elusive karmic tie from a past life?"


    Granny Yun was uncertain, specting quietly in her heart.


    However, the notion of reincarnation or past lives was ultimately irrelevant. A new life was akin to a fresh start, even for close rtives. They could end up as strangers or even mortal enemies.


    Thus, delving into one¡¯s past life held little meaning.


    Unless one could break through the mystery of the womb and awaken memories of the past life, such musings were futile.


    Only those of great power, or cultivators who practiced techniques aligned with reincarnation, could achieve this.


    Alchemist Xu, as a Fake Dan Immortal and a quasi-third rank alchemist, was at least 100-200 years old.


    Granny Yun dismissed any connection to Master Lihuo, whose soulmp had extinguished decades ago, indicating his fall. Their ages did not align in the slightest.


    "This person is refined, gentle, and easy-going¡ªindeed a pleasant individual who is naturally likable to most people," Granny Yun thought as she assessed him further.


    As their conversation continued, Granny Yun found herself more and more at ease. Whether it was due to a karmic bond or simply natural affinity, she decided this was someone worth befriending.


    Lan Chang''an, on the other hand, wasn¡¯t inclined to delve into prolonged discussions with Granny Yun. However, her enthusiasm made it challenging for him to steer the conversation.


    After much effort, he finally directed the discussion toward the main topic:


    "Shopkeeper Yun, I heard from Yun Ling that if this pill refinement was sessful, you would introduce me to a peaceful and independent third-rank spiritual vein site. Is that correct?"


    Granny Yun was inexplicably a bit annoyed inwardly, seeing that Lan Chang''an didn''t want to chat much with an old woman like herself.


    She murmured, "Indeed, I will help introduce it. However, whether it works out depends on both your skills and character, Alchemist Xu."


    "Your alchemy skills, I can vouch for. But ultimately, it will depend on the opinion of my old friend, who has full control over that spiritual vein site."


    "Is the site located in the River Source Oasis? Which faction owns it?" Lan Chang''an asked.


    "It is indeed in the River Source Oasis. That particr site does not belong to any faction, so you won''t be required to pledge allegiance or face excessive restrictions. All that¡¯s needed is for you to consistently fulfill some alchemy requests, train a few young assistants in herb processing, and help manage the medicinal herb garden..."


    The conditions Granny Yunid out intrigued Lan Chang''an.


    He spected that it must be a privately owned, small-scale third rank spiritual vein site.


    Spiritual veins were categorized not only by rank but also by scale.


    The higher the rank of a spiritual vein, therger its scale typically was.


    Even among third-rank spiritual veins, smaller ones existed, most of which were cultivatedter in life, not innately formed.


    For instance, the medium-torge third-rank spiritual vein of Jin Yun Valley could simultaneously support the cultivation of seven or eight True Dan cultivators without issue.


    "How long will it take to receive confirmation?" Lan Chang''an inquired.


    His other two alternatives were not as favorable as this one.


    "My old friend is expected to return to the River Source Oasis in about six months. If Immortal Xu doesn¡¯t have a better option, you might as well wait," Granny Yun replied.


    "Alright, I¡¯ll wait six months," Lan Chang''an agreed.


    He surmised that the six-month timeframe was merely a pretext.


    During this period, Granny Yun and her old friend would likely investigate the background of ¡°Alchemist Xu¡± and evaluate his character.


    ...


    The next day.


    Lan Chang''an rented a secluded courtyard in the market district for six months. It was more cost-effective than staying at an inn, and it offered greater privacy.


    For the next six months, although there was no ess to a third-rank spiritual vein, the second-rank spiritual vein provided basic support. To supplement it, Lan Chang''an could use spirit stones and medicinal pills.


    However, relying too much on spirit stones and pills wasn¡¯t a sustainable practice. Over time, it would reduce a cultivator¡¯s ability to attune to the natural flow of the heavens and earth, limiting their potential.


    Moreover, using pills and stones as a substitute was ten times more expensive than renting ess to a proper spiritual vein.


    During this half-year, Lan Chang''an focused on studying the "Record of Transformative Spirit Puppets" and Ada Wan¡¯s insights on puppet craftsmanship, which greatly inspired his own techniques and creativity.


    The human-faced serpent woman puppet he acquired was the culmination of Ada Wan¡¯s lifelong research.


    Even though this exotic spirit puppet was a half-finished product, about seventy percentplete, it provided Lan Chang''an with valuable insights. Its ws, such as ack ofbat endurance and asional malfunctions, limited its practical use.


    Additionally, the independent consciousness infused into the puppet¡¯s spirit resisted Lan Chang''an¡¯s control, creating certain obstacles.


    After all, the spirit within the puppet was once Ada Wan¡¯s younger sister, whom he had loved deeply.


    Fortunately, Lan Chang''an had no intention of using "her" inbat. She served purely as a research specimen.


    By analyzing this exotic puppet, Lan Chang''an quickly gained an understanding of the spirit infusion techniques described in the "Record of Transformative Spirit Puppets."


    In less than a month, he sessfully learned the method.


    This was due to his Nascent Soul Realm insights and powerful spiritual sense which allowed him to approach the level of a mid-grade third-rank puppet master.


    Learning the spirit infusion technique, Lan Chang''an now needed experimental subjects.


    The process required refining living souls, with intelligent human souls yielding the best results¡ªthough the method was undeniably cruel.


    While Lan Chang''an was no saint, he wasn¡¯t the type to senselessly kill innocent people without personal grievances or profit.


    Instead, he sent his Earth Burrowing Rat into the desert to capture intelligent sand beasts. Using his Soul-Nurturing Bracelet, he extracted the souls of these beasts for experimentation.


    He refined the sand beast souls, infusing them into discarded second-rank puppets.


    During the refinement process, he erased unfavorable resisting consciousness and memories, leaving behind only clean, instinctual fragments of awareness.


    After multiple attempts, he achieved one or two sessful cases.


    However, Lan Chang''an quickly realized the limitations and ws of this method:


    For one, the refining process could sometimes destroy the soul entirely, as the torment was too overwhelming to endure. The stronger the soul¡¯s intelligence, the greater its resistance to refinement.


    And secondly, even after sessful spirit infusion, the puppet required extensive training and adjustment.


    With enough training time, a puppet infused with a highly intelligent consciousness could exhibit superior rationality andbat effectiveness, even surpassing cultivators of the same rank.


    However, the two puppets Lan Chang''an sessfully infused had rudimentary awareness at best, rendering them clumsy and nearly useless in independentbat.


    "Ada Wan''s sess involved an element of clever exploitation. His love-struck blood sister, willingly cooperated..."


    Lan Chang''an discerned the secret behind Ada Wan¡¯s achievement.


    While Ada Wan had his unique methods, Lan Chang''an had his own advantage.


    The first, second, and fourth lives in the Nine Seal Stele were all ready-made soul forms. These souls, having undergone the purification of the stele¡¯s reincarnation power, were far purer than anything refined artificially.


    In contrast, souls obtained through external refinement methods, no matter how meticulously handled, always retained traces of lingering obsessions from their past lives.


    In the following days, Lan Chang''an began experimenting with the soul shadow of his first life, attempting to infuse it into a puppet.


    The soul shadow of his first life lit up extremely fast, nourished by the divine soul of his current Core Formation Realm, it could be illuminated in a day at most.


    However, his initial attempts all ended in failure.


    Whenever the soul shadow left Lan Chang''an¡¯s body, its rate of decay elerated. The integration process with the puppetcked harmony, and the soul shadow would soon dissipate entirely.


    Lan Chang''an realized that the perfectpatibility between his current body and the soul of his first life could not be replicated with an external puppet vessel.


    To address this, he refined the soul shadow directly within his own body. Compressing and purifying it, he treated it as though crafting a magical treasure, engraving it with his spiritual sense imprint.


    Simultaneously, he refined the puppet¡¯s control core, marking it with his spiritual sense as well.


    Ultimately, thepressed and purified soul shadow was condensed into a glowing bead norger than a mung bean, which he then merged into the second-rank puppet¡¯s core.


    This time, it worked!


    The soul shadow of his first life was sessfully infused into the puppet.


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    Lan Chang''an was astonished to discover that the second-rank turtle puppet infused with the soul shadow now felt like an extension of his own body.


    With a single thought, the turtle puppet performed precise and agile movements: backward flips, spinning attacks, and evenical wrestling maneuvers.


    Not only did it respond seamlessly to hismands, but it also consumed an almost negligible amount of his spiritual sense.


    Over the next two months, Lan Chang''an¡¯s excitement grew.


    Thepressed and refined soul shadow, supported by the puppet¡¯s spiritual crystal core, could remain active for extended periods as long as it wasn¡¯t engaged in intensebat.


    One night, Lan Chang''an tested the puppet in the wilderness, sending it far away.


    Remarkably, even at a distance of hundreds of li, he could control the puppet as easily as moving his own limbs. It felt like a remote clone.


    Even more incredible, he could share the puppet¡¯s senses.


    ¡°A puppet clone!¡±


    Excitement surged in Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind.


    Ada Wan¡¯s exotic puppetscked this kind of intimate control or long-distance maneuverability.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Lan Chang''an deduced that the keyy in the soul shadow he had infused¡ªit was a fragment of his own past life¡¯s soul, essentially another version of himself!


    Therefore, after the spirit is infused into the puppet, it could achieve a level of synergy resembling the Avatar Technique of the Deity Transformation Realm.


    However, there were differences.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppet clonecked independent consciousness and required constant remote control.


    In contrast, a true Avatar Technique could only be cultivated at the Deity Transformation Realm, also known as the Spirit Splitting stage. At this level, a cultivator could separate a portion of their soul into a fully autonomous entity without harming their soul¡¯s origin.


    An avatar created this way could act independently, capable of exploring, fighting, andpletingplex tasks without affecting the main body.


    At realms below the Nascent Soul Realm, achieving such a feat was nearly impossible.


    Even using external tools to create a second Nascent Soul came with immense risks, such as damaging the original soul and permanently reducing one¡¯s potential.


    This was why so few Nascent Soul cultivators managed to create avatars and those who did typically produced crippled versions with numerous limitations.


    Lan Chang''an recalled records he had read in the fourth life.


    Even at the Deity Transformation Realm, avatars carried risks. If the main body was injured or the avatar acquired great opportunities that allowed it to surpass the main body, it could result in the avatar rebelling.


    Such incidents had urred more than once in the ancient history of the Heaven Honoured Continent.


    "Although my puppet clone is far inferior to the avatars of Deity Transformation cultivators, it¡¯s only infused with the soul shadow of my first life."


    ¡°If I were to use the soul shadow of my second life at the peak Core Formation stage or my fourth life at the Nascent Soul Realm, the puppet¡¯s range and strength would be even greater.¡±


    A vision began to form in Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind:


    He could remain safely hidden in the Fengyuan Kingdom while remotely controlling a powerful puppet infused with the soul shadow of his fourth life. This puppet could travel back to the Righteous Dao Alliance or the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world to procure resources, gather intelligence, or even assassinate enemies.


    Of course, this was purely theoretical for now, as there were many challenges to ovee.


    For instance, the puppet would need to appear indistinguishable from a human in both appearance and behavior.


    Unfortunately, the puppet-making techniques from his fourth life were ordinary andcked the specialized refinements needed for such feats.


    Ada Wan¡¯s techniques were somewhat advanced in this regard, but his puppets were still easy to expose upon close inspection, only capable of deceiving low-level cultivators.


    ¡°To create a wless puppet clone capable of acting as my proxy, I have to obtain the core puppet-crafting techniques of the Thousand Mechanisms Sect.¡±


    Lan Chang''an resolved to settle down in the Fengyuan Kingdom and advance to Core Formation mid-stage before considering this matter.


    ...


    Over the agreed six months.


    The half-year passed productively for Lan Chang''an.


    His current puppet clone, however, was still nothing more than a remote-controlled rge toy." Its practicality was inferior even to the Earth Burrowing Rat, which could act autonomously.


    One day, Yun Ling paid him a visit, interrupting his studies.


    This time, Yun Ling came alone, as her elder brother Yun Hao was in seclusion, preparing to break through to the Foundation Establishment Realm.


    "Alchemist Xu, Granny asked me toe," Yun Ling said softly.


    Dressed in a pink and white long dress, Yun Ling performed a formal bow. Her voice was as sweet as tinkling bells.


    Lan Chang''an looked at the seventeen- or eighteen-year-old girl in front of him. Her bright star-like eyes, snow-white skin, slender waist, and tender, rosy lips all exuded a pure and vibrant beauty.


    While her appearance was quite different from Guan Qiaozhi¡¯s, she possessed a youthful charm that was reminiscent of her. In fact, her looks and demeanor surpassed thetter¡¯s in many ways.


    "No need for formalities. What instructions does Shopkeeper Yun have for me?" Lan Chang''an said, waving his hand casually. His tone was gentle andposed.


    Yun Ling appeared slightly nervous in front of the Fake Dan Immortal.


    She nced at the refined and elegant man but quickly lowered her head, avoiding direct eye contact.


    "This is a token Granny Yun asked me to deliver to you," she said seriously, holding out a purple jade pendant with her delicate, jade-like fingers.


    As he looked at her fair and slender hand up close, Lan Chang''an¡¯s gaze turned thoughtful. With a slight surge of his Core energy, he drew the jade pendant into his hand.


    The moment his spiritual sense made contact with it, a simple map emerged within the jade pendant, marking a location in the River Source Oasis.


    While Lan Chang''an studied the jade pendant, Yun Ling¡¯s cheeks flushed slightly.


    Her nervousness stemmed from her hidden agenda¡ªthis visit carried a subtle test, one she suspected the elder before her might have already seen through.


    In their previous three encounters, the sense of kinship and familiarity she felt with him had stirred her curiosity.


    The first time they met during a trade in the market, Lan Chang''an had deliberately let her gain the upper hand, a gesture that felt unusual.


    Her Granny had always warned her that there were no free benefits in this world, especially from men.


    Granny Yun had once outlined a universal truth: regardless of whether they were young men, middle-aged, or elderly, all men shared an immutable fondness for young and beautiful women.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s earlier actions inevitably led Yun Ling to wonder: Could this elder actually harbor some thoughts about her?


    To test this, she decided that if Alchemist Xu took the opportunity to touch her hand while receiving the token, it would confirm her suspicions of his ill intentions¡ªwhat her brother Yun Hao called "an old cow eating young grass."


    Interestingly, Granny Yun had expressed some interest in Alchemist Xu and didn¡¯t oppose Yun Ling¡¯s willingness to explore such matters.


    If Alchemist Xu turned out to be indecent, then even with the token in hand, his prospects of securing the spiritual vein site would be slim.


    Of course, Yun Ling was willing to "sacrifice" a bit of her charm, especially since she found the refined and handsome elder rather appealing.


    If he had been in his seventies or eighties with a decrepit appearance, she wouldn¡¯t have entertained the idea.


    Yun Ling was first nervously surprised, and then there was a faint hint of inexplicable loss.


    "Alright, I understand now," Lan Chang''an said with a nod as he put away the purple jade pendant.


    "If there¡¯s nothing else, you can return," he added, dismissing her.


    Yun Ling hesitated briefly but ultimately left.


    As her figure was about to disappear through the courtyard gate, muffled sounds came from Lan Chang''an¡¯s spirit beast pouch.


    The Profound Water Turtle inside was protesting, eager toe out and y with Yun Ling.


    "Youzy bastard, you want to rebel?" Lan Chang''an chided.


    "You haven¡¯t even learned a basic transformation technique, and you dare think about rekindling old ties?"


    The turtle could only puff out bubbles, its eyes filled with pitiful grievance.


    Unlike the diligent Earth Burrowing Rat, which had studied beast techniques and transformations during its time with the Beast Taming Zhou Family, the Profound Water Turtle was inherentlyzy andcked drive.


    The Earth Burrowing Rat had long since mastered the transformation technique and severalbat skills, even training itself in the beast-taming inheritance from Huang Lan Immortal¡¯s spoils of war without urging from Lan Chang''an.


    ...


    Lan Chang''an left the market district and followed the map within the jade pendant, heading to a forested area on the northwestern edge of the River Source Oasis.


    As he neared the location, the jade pendant glowed with a purple crystalline light.


    Buzz!


    In the air around the forest, a faint white radiance flickered briefly, as if an invisible barrier had been triggered.


    In an instant, a vast and ancient manor spanning dozens of acres appeared before Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes.


    The manor had been concealed by a third-rank illusion array that distorted spiritual sense perception.


    Additionally, a spatialpression technique made the expansive manor appear as though it upied only a few acres within the oasis.


    "A small, tucked-away haven," Lan Chang''an remarked as he observed the manor.


    The outer gardens were filled with vibrant medicinal herbs and spiritual trees. Within, there were serene mountains, flowing waters, pavilions, and winding paths that exuded tranquility.


    The small spiritual vein here emitted a pressure that barely reached the third rank, suggesting it had been artificially cultivated rather than naturally formed.


    A voice called out from the manor.


    "Alchemist Xu, I¡¯ve been awaiting your arrival here at the Mountain-Water Manor."


    Sitting cross-legged in front of a pavilion overlooking the water was a slightly overweight, middle-aged man in loose robes. He appeared to be in his fifties.


    The man smiled warmly and waved his wide sleeve, deactivating the manor¡¯s protective array and opening an invisible gate to invite Lan Chang''an inside.


    Judging by the faint fluctuations of Core energy emanating from him, this mysterious man with the surname Duan was at least a True Dan cultivator¡ªeven more than just the early stage.


    If it was an ordinary Fake Dan cultivator, they might not dare to rush in.


    If he didn''t dare to enter and squirmed, he would be looked down upon by the other party, and the introduction matter might end there.


    "Eh? So it''s this grandson," Lan Chang''an muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing slightly.


    Though the elder¡¯s appearance had changed, his aura could not be disguised.


    This "Duan elder" was none other than his fourth life¡¯s grandson.


    "Apologies for the wait, Elder Duan," Lan Chang''an said after a brief pause, scanning the area to ensure it wasn¡¯tpletely isted.


    Taking a deep breath, he flew into the Mountain-Water Manor.


    Elder Duan, stroking his beard with a smile, noticed Lan Chang''an¡¯s cautious demeanor and nodded approvingly.


    Over the past six months, he had investigated Alchemist Xu¡¯s background. Rumor had it that the man had once been attacked and robbed near the Scorpion Deste City, only to reappear in the River Source Oasis, seemingly destitute.


    "Alchemist Xu, please sit. If you have any concerns, feel free to ask," Duan said as he gestured with his sleeve, conjuring a cushion for Lan Chang''an.


    The two sat across from each other in the pavilion.


    Lan Chang''an got straight to the point: "This third-rank spiritual vein seems newly cultivated. How many Immortals can it support?"


    Elder Duan patiently exined, "This small spiritual vein is suitable for one True Dan cultivator, along with some Foundation Establishment and Qi-Refining juniors, without any strain."


    "If two True Dan cultivators were to use it simultaneously, it would be a bit taxing. However, the manor also has a third-rank spirit gathering array. With enough spirit stone investment, it could support two to three True Dan cultivators for extended periods."


    Lan Chang''an nodded. Small third-rank spiritual veins were typically personal cultivation sites, capable of supporting only one or two cultivators of simr rank.


    Elder Duan continued, "Most of the time, I¡¯m away traveling for business or other ventures. If you¡¯re willing, Alchemist Xu, I¡¯d like you to guard this ce, tend to the spiritual trees and medicinal herbs, and asionally refine some pills or train alchemy apprentices aspensation."


    "Is Elder Duan reallyfortable entrusting me alone with such a site?" Lan Chang''an asked curiously.


    Small third-rank spiritual veins were rare and strategic resources in the River Source Oasis. Other factions might attempt to seize it to attract Core Formation experts, or If there was a highly skilled vein formation master, they could even merge it with their own third-rank spirit vein to strengthen its power.


    A Fake Dan Immortal, guarding a newly cultivated small third-rank cultivation site, and tending to spiritual trees and herbs, sounded unreliable.

 Chapter 295: The Straw-Hat Assassin

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    ¡°Hehe! For Immortal Xu to ignore the ¡®Wan Hua Merchant Association¡¯ and demand a third-rank spirit vein before entering this manor alone¡ªhis cultivation is likely more than just Fake Dan.¡±


    Elder Duan, with his higher cultivation realm, swept his spiritual sense over Lan Chang''an, seeing through his true strength. A cryptic smile appeared at the corner of his lips.


    Naturally, Elder Duan didn¡¯t realize that this was his grandfather letting him off the hook and not going all out in concealment.


    Even though this was the fourth life''s grandson and he knew his roots, Lan Chang''an maintained a trace of wariness.


    Revealing greater strength was a deliberate move to ensure the other party harbored no ulterior motives.


    Of course, the likelihood of such betrayal was slim.


    Lan Chang''an had recently be a hot topic in the River Source Oasis. In the oasis spanning hundreds of li, every location he visited left visible traces of his presence.


    ¡°Elder Duan¡¯s profound cultivation and vast magical power leave my minor concealment techniquesughable.¡±Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression shifted slightly, feigning calm while appearing faintly apprehensive toward this unfathomable Core Formation stage master.


    ¡°Immortal Xu, there¡¯s no need to feel uneasy. It''s better that you have a True Dan cultivation. Your cultivation coupled with a third-rank formation, is more than sufficient to guard the Mountain-Water Manor.¡±


    Elder Duan¡¯s warm smile exuded a sense of control over the entire situation.


    Apart from himself, there was also Granny Yun secretly overseeing matters¡ªmore than enough to keep Immortal Xu in check.


    The spiritual vein on this ind had already been notarized, ensuring that the other party wouldn¡¯t dare im it without due process.


    In the past, when Elder Duan was away attending to two other branch locations, Granny Yun, a third-rank formation master, was responsible for managing and nurturing the third-rank spirit vein here.


    However, Granny Yun¡¯s potential was limited due to injuries from a past escape. Betrayed by a sect traitor, her foundational damage left her cultivation at an impassable bottleneck.


    Elder Duan was in a simr predicament.


    The two of them focused solely on maintaining their existing cultivation from regressing, without relying on the third-rank spirit vein.


    Half an hourter¡­


    Lan Chang''an and Elder Duan finalized numerous details and signed a third-rank spirit contract.


    The contract terms were fairly loose.


    Every year, Lan Chang''an would be tasked with refining a certain amount of alchemical pills asmissioned and assisting in the maintenance of the Mountain-Water Manor.


    Additionally, three alchemy apprentice slots would be granted every ten years.


    The initial term of the spirit contract was thirty years, during which Lan Chang''an could choose to break the contract, but he would need topensate double the costs incurred during his stay, based on market prices.


    Furthermore, there was an additional use in the contract:


    The Mountain-Water Manor might, at times, be rented out to other Core Formation cultivators for anywhere between ten to twenty years, or even longer. During such periods, Lan Chang''an was expected to cooperate.


    Lan Chang''an had no objections to this.


    Having experienced the simted fourth life, he predicted that the spirit vein and cultivation field here would eventually be one of the potential family grounds for the descendants of Master Lihuo.


    Concerned about attracting attention, the descendants from the fourth life avoided putting all their eggs in one basket, ensuring the continuation of their bloodline by spreading across three branches in Fengyuan Kingdom, with littlemunication between them.


    Among these descendants, young and outstanding figures like the Yun siblings were entirely unaware of their own lineage.


    As the direct grandson of Master Lihuo, Elder Duan served as the coordinator,municating only with the leaders of the three branches.


    In the wake of war and discement, the descendants of his fourth life faced a challenging transitional period.


    There was a shortage of third-rank alchemists, and True Dan cultivators were equally scarce.


    If a reliable third-rank alchemist could be secured to assist with pill refining, apprentice training, and guarding this backup third-rank spirit vein, it would be an ideal solution for all parties.


    ...


    That same day, Elder Duan handed over the formation control token for Mountain-Water Manor to Lan Chang''an.


    ording to the agreement, the manor¡¯s external formations could not be modified or reced by Lan Chang''an.


    However, he was free to arrange his own formations within the manor¡¯s public and private areas to ensure his privacy.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind. Any concealment formations he personally set up would far surpass the external ones.


    With the Restriction-Breaking Talismans in his possession, he could easily break through this third-rank formation if needed.


    A few dayster¡­


    Lan Chang''an officially moved into Mountain-Water Manor.


    The estate already had a ready-made underground chamber beneath the main pavilion. In front of the pavilion, there was a pond and an artificial river.


    Lan Chang''an instructed the Earth Burrowing Rat to deepen the pond and set up a tunnel that could only be essed through a key formation technique, leading to the underground chamber.


    The Profound Water Turtle could freely roam between the pond and the underground chamber, keeping watch over the Xuanmu Vine Gourd that had been reconnected to the earth''s qi flow.


    ¡°This small third-rank cultivation field in Mountain-Water Manor is more than sufficient for me and the Profound Water Turtle to cultivate. There¡¯s no need for additional spirit stone investments.¡±


    After settling in, Lan Chang''an felt quite satisfied.


    The Profound Water Turtle¡¯s dependence on spiritual energy was only equivalent to that of a Fake Dan cultivator. It also absorbed some of Lan Chang''an¡¯s Evergreen Golden Dan energy, drawing on the Qi of ages emitted during his cultivation.


    The magical powers and abilities of beastsrgely stemmed from their bloodline.


    As such, normal beasts relied on spiritual energy slightly less than human cultivators.


    The Profound Water Turtle¡¯s reliance was even lower than that of typical beasts.


    As for the Earth Burrowing Rat?


    A mid-third-rank demon beast, it would undoubtedly strain the small spirit vein here if it stayed.


    Lan Chang''an decided to release it into the wild and make it self-sufficient.


    The boundless desert, rich in earth qi and filled with minerals and spiritual resources, was the perfect environment for the Earth Burrowing Rat.


    In this vast domain, it could hunt sand beasts, explore resources, and enjoy the freedom of its existence.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expectations were modest: he only requested two or three-tenths of any precious spiritual resources or spoils of war the Earth Burrowing Rat discovered, including any loot from eliminating desert bandits.


    The beast-taming inheritance left by the Huang Lang Immortal contained such wild-raising techniques, which emphasized allowing spirit beasts to cultivate their wild instincts. Beasts raised this way were often fiercer and far stronger inbat.


    This method also came with minimal expenses.


    However, the drawbacks were obvious: the beasts faced high risks of premature death in the wild, and the chances of betrayal increased.


    Risk, however, wasn¡¯t a concern for Lan Chang''an.


    He had analyzed the region: the River Source Oasiscked high-grade third-rank spirit veins, meaning note-stage Core Formation masters were permanently stationed here.


    This ensured that the Earth Burrowing Rat could reign supreme across the surrounding area, freely borrowing spirit veins for cultivation.


    The various sandworms, venomous creatures, and exotic beasts in the desert would all be its prey.


    As long as it maintained a low profile and avoided harming the interests of the major factions in the oasis, there would be no significant risks.


    ...


    In the months that followed, Lan Chang''an quietly resided in Mountain-Water Manor and celebrated his 215th birthday.


    During this time, the Earth Burrowing Rat was rarely seen around the estate¡ªit seemed to be fully indulging in its newfound freedom. It had returned home twice, bringing Lan Chang''an a modest tribute of mined spiritual materials.


    Despite the absence of a fixed third-rank spirit vein, the Earth Burrowing Rat¡¯s cultivation progress showed no signs of slowing down; in fact, it seemed to have elerated slightly.


    Lan Chang''an surmised the creature must have been sneaking some extra food from the surroundings but chose to turn a blind eye.


    As for the Profound Water Turtle, Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t let it grow toozy andcent.


    The spirit woods and herbs within Mountain-Water Manor, along with the young spirit beast eggs acquired from the Huang Lang Immortal, were ced under its care.


    Lan Chang''an would asionally sell some of these young beasts and eggs on the oasis market, spreading them out over a long period. The rarer breeds, however, were reserved for eventual sale at the prestigious auctions held in the immortal cities.


    The Profound Water Turtle¡¯s water- and wood-based techniques made it particrly well-suited to repetitive, mundane tasks like this.


    Its naturallyzy and unambitious temperament necessitated constant external motivation. Without Lan Chang''an¡¯s prodding, it would simplyy idle all day.


    On this day, Elder Duan returned to Mountain-Water Manor with three alchemy apprentices¡ªtwo men and one woman.


    Upon sensing their arrival, the Profound Water Turtle retreated into the underground chamber via the pond¡¯s hidden tunnel, avoiding detection.


    ¡°Immortal Xu, I will trouble you to guide these three younglings over the next decade,¡± Elder Duan said with a polite smile.


    The three apprentices brought by Elder Duan all showed some potential in alchemy, and their natural talents were likely greater than Lan Chang''an¡¯s.


    ¡°This was part of our agreement,¡± Lan Chang''an replied calmly.


    Guiding these apprentices didn¡¯t mean taking them on as personal disciples; it simply required him to answer their questions and provide asional pointers. Whether they would seed ultimately depended on their own fortune and efforts.


    Lan Chang''an sized up the three apprentices. Two of them possessed low-grade spiritual roots, while the third had mid-grade spiritual roots.


    The one with mid-grade roots was named Niu Jie, a dark-skinned, ordinary-looking youth.


    Elder Duan specifically requested that Lan Chang''an pay closer attention to Niu Jie, citing his promising alchemy talent.


    ¡°Niu Jie?¡±


    Lan Chang''an raised an eyebrow at the name, storing it in his memory.


    Master Lihuo had lived for seven or eight centuries, and few knew that his original name was Duan Daniu. The surname ¡°Duan¡± had long been altered to conceal his identity.


    Niu Jie¡¯s given name, "Niu," was undoubtedly a nod to the same heritage.


    After more than a century of living under an alias, those who once sought to pry into Master Lihuo¡¯s legacy had likely abandoned their pursuits.


    ¡°Immortal Xu,¡± Elder Duan transmitted to him secretly before departing, ¡°if you can nurture a third-rank alchemist for me, I will transfer Mountain-Water Manor¡¯s third-rank cultivation field to you at a discounted price.¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly, unimpressed by such empty promises.


    This small third-rank spirit vein was useful to him now, but once he advanced to the mid-tote Core Formation stage and factored in the Profound Water Turtle, it would no longer be sufficient.


    Improving the quality of a spirit vein was an exceptionally slow process, requiring centuries or even millennia of investment¡ªnot something achievable by a single generation of cultivators.


    The only way to speed up the process would be to seize another faction¡¯s spirit vein and transnt it, a task that would require an extraordinary vein formation master.


    ...


    That evening¡­


    Elder Duan, now dressed in a loose robe, appeared on the third floor of the "Treasure Pavilion" in He Yuan Market.


    ¡°Greetings, Granny,¡± Elder Duan said respectfully, bowing deeply to the silver-haired old woman with a face full of wrinkles.


    By seniority, Granny Yun was his grandmother.


    In reality, however, Elder Duan was roughly the same age as her. He was not one of her direct descendants.


    Granny Yun had been the Master Lihuo¡¯s final wife, married during his Nascent Soul stage and the youngest of his Daoist partners.


    The other wives and concubines had mostly been taken during the Foundation Establishment or Core Formation stages and had long since passed away.


    ¡°How do you feel about this Immortal Xu? Can he be trusted?¡± Granny Yun asked, motioning for Elder Duan to skip the formalities, though he still stood respectfully without taking a seat.


    ¡°Granny, since you¡¯ve already vetted him initially, there¡¯s no need for doubt. Immortal Xu was once ambushed and nearly killed in Scorpion Deste City, leaving him destitute. His demeanor is humble and courteous. From his words and actions, he seems to be a refined and schrly gentleman,¡± Elder Duan replied thoughtfully.


    After a brief pause, he added:


    ¡°However, despite meeting Immortal Xu twice, I don¡¯t feel any particr connection or affinity with him.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡±


    Granny Yun¡¯s curiosity deepened.


    Both she and Yun Ling had experienced a strange sense of familiarity with Immortal Xu, yet Elder Duan, as Master Lihuo¡¯s direct grandson, felt nothing of the sort.


    This was peculiar.


    By logic, if such a connection existed, it should have been stronger with Elder Duan, who shared a closer bloodline.


    ¡°Could it be tied to the Yun family¡¯s bloodline?¡± Granny Yun mused silently.


    Both Yun Yan and Yun Ling carried the Yun family¡¯s lineage.


    Yun Ling, in particr, bore a resemnce to a younger Yun Yan,bined with an innate talent for talisman-making. This was why Granny Yun had chosen to nurture Yun Ling as an elite descendant.


    ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s due to Immortal Xu¡¯s cultivation technique and his refined temperament, which naturally leaves a good impression on female cultivators,¡± Elder Duan spected.


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    Granny Yun nodded but kept her true thoughts to herself.


    The two of them failed toprehend the true nature of these karmic ties.


    Elder Duan was merely one among Master Lihuo¡¯s countless descendants, and the connection was rtively shallow.


    Yun Ling, though separated by more generations, had a much deeper link, she was also at the same time the reincarnation of Guan Qiaozhi, someone with an intimate bond to Lan Chang''an.


    As for Granny Yun, she had been Master Lihuo¡¯s final Daoist partner, sharing a deep emotional connection and her ties were second only to Yun Ling.


    ¡°Granny, the traitor Fang Zhen has reportedly arrived in ¡®Gutian City¡¯ this year. He may be closing in on some leads,¡± Elder Duan reported grimly.


    ¡°Though the other two branches have third-rank puppets and spirit beasts as their trump cards, theyck True Dan masters. If this man targets them, the danger will be immense. I have to go over there as soon as possible to secretly look after them and watch out for that thieving son.¡±


    At the mention of Fang Zhen, a look of dread shed across Granny Yun¡¯s face.


    Years ago, when she had faked her death to escape with her life, Fang Zhen, then an inner sect elder, had seen through her disguise. He had led a group to ambush her, leaving her severely injured.


    Fang Zhen had once been the deputy head of the Lihuo Pce¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall, known for his cunning and ruthlessness.


    He was in mid-Core Formation stage and ambushed an early-Core Formation cultivator with overwhelming numbers. Only by using the trump cards given to her by her husband had Granny Yun managed to injure Fang Zhen and escape with her life.


    ¡°Be cautious and avoid exposing your whereabouts,¡± she warned.


    ¡°Rest assured, Granny. With Immortal Xu now guarding Mountain-Water Manor, I have more time and energy to deal with these matters¡­¡±


    ...


    In a sh, three years passed.


    Lan Chang''an lived a peaceful and leisurely life in Mountain-Water Manor, focusing on cultivation without any outside interference.


    It seemed that Elder Duan trusted him immensely¡ªhe hadn¡¯t returned even once in the past three years.


    As a result, Mountain-Water Manor had gradually be Lan Chang''an¡¯s private cultivation field.


    The once destitute "Immortal Xu," who had arrived at River Source Oasis with nothing, now had a home to his name, blending into themunity of cultivators.


    Over time, fewer cultivators and factions paid attention to Lan Chang''an. His presence faded into the background of the oasis¡¯s many stories.


    However, one exception persisted¡ªthe Wan Hua Merchant Association, which still bore a grudge against Lan Chang''an for rejecting their overtures years ago.


    This influential merchant guild controlled nearly half of the oasis¡¯s supply of spirit woods, medicinal herbs, and alchemical materials.


    Lan Chang''an couldn''t purchase rare alchemical materials through their channels. Evenmon items were sold to him at standard prices without any of the usual discounts.


    This mild suppression, however, meant little to Lan Chang''an.


    Alchemy was not his primary craft and was ranked at the bottom of his many skills.


    Moreover, he had brought a considerable stockpile of herbs from the Liang Kingdom, items scarce in River Source Oasis, making himrgely self-sufficient.


    ¡°Water Jet Turtle! If you mess around again, Ling¡¯er won¡¯t speak to you anymore!¡±


    A silvery, bell-like voice floated across the waters of Mountain-Water Manor¡¯s pond.


    The massive Water Jet Turtle, about ten feet wide, sprayed a jet of water toward the blue-dressed girl with starlit eyes and pearly teeth.


    The girl, Yun Ling, wrinkled her delicate nose in feigned anger. Her rosy cheeks puffed slightly, her damp hair clung to her skin, and her soaked long dress outlined her graceful, curvy figure.


    Blub, blub!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    The Water Jet Turtle swam up to Yun Ling¡¯s feet, blowing bubbles as if to apologize.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Yun Ling snorted softly, her dainty foot¡ªwhite as jade¡ªlightly kicking the turtle.


    The turtle, with its tough, leathery skin, wasn¡¯t hurt at all. Instead, it affectionately rubbed its head against her foot in a cating gesture.


    ¡°That tickles! Stop it! Do it gently¡­ hey, not there!¡±


    Yun Ling broke into peals ofughter, her eyes sparkling as she tried to suppress her giggles. She held up her damp skirt and copsed onto the turtle¡¯s sturdy shell, herughter ringing like silver bells.


    ¡°Ling¡¯er, stop fooling around. As a youngdy, you should know etiquette and propriety,¡± a helpless voice called out from the waterside pavilion.


    Standing there was Yun Hao, Yun Ling¡¯s elder brother, who had recently advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage. Scratching his nose, he smiled wryly at the scene.


    He couldn¡¯t help but mutter inwardly, It¡¯s just a mid-grade bloodline Water Jet Turtle. Sure, it¡¯s a bit rare in the desert, but what¡¯s the big deal?


    For some reason, Yun Ling had been smitten with the turtle from the moment she firstid eyes on it, treating it with maternal affection.


    Likewise, the turtle seemed to have an inexplicable fondness for Yun Ling.


    Their initial visit to Mountain-Water Manor had been for the purpose of acquiring alchemical pills to stock rare treasures and herbs for their family shop.


    But after that first encounter, Yun Ling began finding excuses to return¡ªostensibly to ¡°run errands¡± for Immortal Xu but really to see the turtle.


    The "Water Jet Turtle" at the moment was naturally the Profound Water Turtle, having taken on a new form through a transformation technique it had cultivated a year ago, it was simr to the human''s disguise technique.


    Driven by its desire to meet Yun Ling, the normallyzy Profound Water Turtle had turned over a new leaf, putting in the effort to master this skill.


    The transformation technique allowed it to take on the appearance of different turtle species but not other creatures.


    The Water Jet Turtle was amon water-element spirit turtle, sharing about 70% of its traits with the Profound Water Turtle in appearance and water-based techniques.


    ¡°Brother Niu, do you know when Immortal Xu will finish his seclusion?¡± Yun Hao turned to the alchemy apprentices, specifically addressing Niu Jie, the most skilled among them.


    Niu Jie, his face dark and in, cupped his hands respectfully. ¡°Back to senior Yun, the Immortal has only been refining pills for a few days. At the earliest, he¡¯ll be out in a few more days; at thetest, ten.¡±


    Yun Hao sighed, ncing at his sister, whose cheeks were flushed with happiness as she yed with the turtle.


    ..


    Neither Niu Jie nor the Yun siblings noticed the faint, shadowy figure stealthily infiltrating Mountain-Water Manor.


    The third-rank formations protecting the manor were utterly useless against this intruder.


    The shadow slipped past barriers with an uncanny ease, eventually concealing itself behind a thousand-year-old ancient tree.


    Its cold, indifferent gaze swept over the scene not far away, where Yun Ling was ying with the "Water Jet Turtle."


    It was a man d in a gray-white robe and a ck cloak, his face obscured by a conical straw hat.


    Underneath the sleeves of the mysterious figure, two throwing des clung to his arms as if maized.


    Swish!


    Like a phantom, the mysterious man in the straw hat bypassed the waterside pavilion, avoiding all senses, formations, and restrictions as he silently approached Lan Chang''an¡¯s alchemy chamber.


    The blurred shadow shed once more and slipped through the narrow gap of the alchemy chamber¡¯s door.


    Inside, the temperature was high, and the blue-red glow of firelight cast flickering shadows.


    Standing before the alchemy furnace was a refined middle-aged man in a green robe¡ªLan Chang''an. His hands deftly formed incantation seals as he meticulously controlled the greenish-gold mes with a calm and focused expression.


    It seemed that he did not notice the uninvited guest behind him.


    The straw-hatted man raised his sleeve, revealing a concealed sleeve arrow inside. The weapon gleamed coldly as it aimed directly at Lan Chang''an¡¯s back.


    ¡°Greetings to Evergreen Immortal,¡± the intruder said, his voice cold and stiff as he cupped his hands in mock respect.


    Without turning his head, Lan Chang''an responded indifferently, ¡°What have you found?¡±


    ¡°Reporting to the Immortal,¡± the straw-hatted man replied, his tone mechanical and detached.


    ¡°After infiltrating their operations, it has been confirmed that the Wan Hua Merchant Association has cultivated the key herb required for the third-rank Life Extension Pill. Furthermore, they possess not just one, but several Longevity Fruits.¡±


    ¡°In addition, the merchant guild has a third-rank alchemist. They n to refine the Life Extension Pills in the future to enhance their influence in the region.¡±


    ¡°Well done,¡± Lan Chang''an praised.


    In fact, this was nothing more than a pre-arranged script, part of Lan Chang''an¡¯s efforts to train his assassin puppet in mimicking real life interactions.


    ...


    Two months earlier, Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppetry skills had advanced to the third-rank mid-grade. Leveraging this breakthrough, he sessfully refined a third-rank mid-grade puppet.


    Lan Chang''an used the Unseen Gate''s ¡°Xing Peng¡± as a temte to create the form of a human assassin for this third-rank mid-grade puppet.


    Using the flesh-sculpting technique he had learned from Ada Wan, Lan Chang''an gave the puppet a lifelike appearance, disguising it as the straw-hatted man.


    However, the assassin puppet had notable limitations. Its frame was fragile, with defensive capabilities inferior to even a third-rank low-grade turtle puppet.


    What itcked in durability, however, it made up for in agility, speed, and assassination prowess.


    Lan Chang¡¯an equipped it with custom-tailoredponents and magical treasures, such as a cloak that enhances stealth, and assassination tools such as throwing des and sleeve darts¡ªsmall magical treasures coated in mid-third rank poison.


    Additionally, it was outfitted with specialized poisonous smoke bombs that could obscure spiritual senses, weaken opponents, and assist in escape or creating chaos.


    Initially, Lan Chang''an had attempted to infuse the puppet with the soul shadow of his first life. Unfortunately, the soul¡¯s Qi-Refining-level power proved insufficient to operate the puppet effectively.


    Afterward, he reced it with the soul shadow of his second life, which had achieved peak Core Formation. This adjustment allowed the puppet to exhibitbat prowess superior to most cultivators of the same rank.


    However, the consumption of the spiritual sense and puppet crystals was quite high.


    Itsck of independent consciousness required Lan Chang''an to micromanage its actions through remote control. The effective range of remote control reached several thousand li. If not engaging inbat but merely traveling or scouting, it could function adequately within a range of ten thousand li.


    At such distances, it achieved a fraction of the capabilities of an avatar.


    However, while the puppet¡¯s lifelike disguise could fool Qi-Refining and Foundation Establishment cultivators, prolonged close interactions risked exposing its artificial nature.


    Against Core Formation cultivators, the puppet¡¯s facade would be even easier to see through.


    ¡°Rumor has it that the Wan Hua Merchant Association is pressuring the nearly bankrupt Star Moon Merchant Association, intending to annex them. How long do you think Star Moon can hold out?¡± Lan Chang''an asked as he stabilized the mes of the alchemy furnace.


    ¡°Although Xing Yuecks Core Formation cultivators, they¡¯ve experienced a resurgence in recent years,¡± the puppet responded mechanically.


    ¡°The guild¡¯s leaders¡ªa man and woman at the Fake Dan stage¡ªhave cultivated a long-lost dualbat technique.¡±


    ¡°This technique harnesses the power of the stars and moon, allowing them to perform attacks that surpass their cultivation level. Several months ago, they defeated and severely injured True Dan assassins hired by Wan Hua during a nighttime confrontation, forcing them to flee.¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes glinted with interest.


    From his Nascent Soul-stage insight, he could tell that the Star Moon Merchant Association¡¯s dualbat technique was extraordinary.


    Had it not been for Yun Yan¡¯s introduction, Xing Yue would have been one of the factions he¡¯d considered affiliating with when he first arrived.


    ¡°And do you know what to do next?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    ¡°Subordinate understands!¡± the puppet replied.


    The assassin puppet opened its chest armor, revealing several puppet crystals, which it inserted into its core. Then, with a sh of blurred motion, it vanished from the alchemy chamber.

 Chapter 296: Ominous Divination

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Two dayster.


    Inside the alchemy chamber of the Mountain-Water Manor, waves of heat and resplendent light swirled around the pill furnace, which had just been opened.


    Three pills of varying qualitynded in Lan Chang''an¡¯s palm.


    Among them, one was pitch ck, like a piece of charcoal, emanating a peculiar odor that could make anyone lightheaded.


    ¡°Two pills seeded, with one of superior quality.¡±


    A look of delight crossed Lan Chang''an¡¯s face as he observed the superior quality Life Extension Pill. It glistened like a translucent green grape, radiating vibrant spiritual energy and an intoxicating life essence.


    It turned out that the pill Lan Chang''an had been refining during his recent seclusion was none other than a second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    The majority of the ingredients for this pill, including the key medicinal herb, had been contributed by Huang Lang Immortal.Huang Lang Immortal''s loot could be described as a huge treasure trove, even including the main ingredient for Crystal Condensation Pills.


    After arriving in the Fengyuan Kingdom, Lan Chang''an paid attention to collecting auxiliary materials. A few months ago, he managed to gather all the ingredients needed for the second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    For most ordinary alchemists of the same rank, crafting a superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pill was an unattainable feat.


    But with Lan Chang''an¡¯s current skills as a third-rank Alchemist, he did not need to rely on others. Using secret alchemical techniques, he sacrificed one of the pills during the refinement process to create a single superior-quality second-rank Life Extension Pill.


    After confirming the pill''s authenticity, Lan Chang''an immediately consumed it, closed his eyes, and meditated for a few breaths to let it take effect.


    Because he had already consumed too many superior second-rank Life Extension Pills previously, this one only extended his lifespan by another six and a half years.


    With this addition, Lan Chang''an¡¯s total lifespan has now reached 1,126 years.


    As an Immortal Golden Dan cultivator, Lan Chang''an technically did not require such an abundance of lifespan during the Core Formation stage.


    However, cultivating the Xuanmu Vine Gourd, performing divination, and using the secret art Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique all consumed lifespan.


    Particrly the Xuanmu Vine Gourd¡ªit required lifespan measured in centuries to nurture.


    Lan Chang''an had calcted that leaving himself a thousand years of lifespan during the Core Formation stage would be more than sufficient, even considering emergencies and unexpected losses.


    The surplus lifespan could be used to cultivate the Xuanmu Vine Gourd or to experiment with other ventures.


    ¡°There are also some ingredients for the third rank Life Extension Pill, but unfortunately there is no main ingredient.¡±


    This refinement of a superior second-rank Life Extension Pill was meant to pave the way for future attempts at crafting a third-rank Life Extension Pill, serving as a warm-up and practice.


    Although Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t currently have the main ingredient for a third-rank Life Extension Pill, the Wan Hua Merchant Association in the River Source Oasis did.


    Even if he joined the Wan Hua Merchant Association, strategic resources of that level would never be made avable to him.


    Since he had declined their invitation to join, the Wan Hua Merchant Association had even suppressed him to some extent, refusing to sell him rare medicinal herbs.


    There was no way to buy the main ingredient for the third-rank Life Extension Pill through normal means!


    Coincidentally, however, the Wan Hua Merchant Association was currently attempting to annex the Star Moon Merchant Association, which was fiercely resisting. The two principal leaders of Star Moon had mastered abined attack technique, giving them the strength to rival a True Dan cultivator.


    Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t help but feel that the Wan Hua Merchant Association¡¯s third-rank Life Extension Pill main ingredient had destiny with him.


    ...


    Exiting seclusion, Lan Chang''an stepped out of the alchemy chamber.


    He was greeted by the sight of the Yun siblings.


    Yun Ling was sitting atop the back of the Profound Water Turtle, her long dress soaked by the sshing waves. Her wet hair clung to her delicate and fair face, which was flushed with a rosy sheen.


    Ssh! Ssh!


    The girl¡¯s tender feet, as pale and smooth as lotus roots, yfully sshed in the water, sending out peals of silveryughter that were pure and lively.


    ¡°Immortal Xu!¡±


    Seeing Lan Chang''an emerge, Yun Hao cupped his hands in greeting and immediately signaled his sister with his eyes.


    ¡°Greetings, Immortal Xu.¡±


    Yun Ling hurriedly stood up on the turtle¡¯s back and bowed respectfully, her posture graceful andposed.


    However, as her gaze lowered, a blush spread across her charming face. Her soaked dress clung to her body, outlining her graceful curves with startling rity.


    Lowering her head in embarrassment, she quietly cast a spell to dry her clothes.


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly. In his previous life, Guan Qiaozhi, who hade from a humble background as a wandering cultivator, had inevitably harbored some selfish motives while following him.


    In this life, Yun Ling¡¯s background and talents were far superior. Her purity and liveliness, both inside and out, were bright and captivating, stirring the heart.


    ¡°No need to be so formal,¡± Lan Chang''an said with a wave, seating himself in the pavilion by the waterside and gesturing for the Yun siblings to join him.


    Having resided in the River Source Oasis for three to four years, Lan Chang''an had maintained a good rtionship with the Treasure Pavilion.


    A year ago, Yun Hao sessfully broke through to the Foundation Establishment stage and hade to thank Lan Chang''an in person.


    Yun Hao possessed high-grade spiritual roots, making his breakthrough smooth and natural.


    Lan Chang''an spected that Yun Hao might be the most talented descendant of Master Lihuo within the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Yun Ling, on the other hand, had mid-grade spiritual roots, but she was highly skilled and possessed exceptional talent for drawing talismans. Her beauty also resembled the young Yun Yan.


    For this reason, Granny Yun brought the siblings around to personally discipline them.


    ¡°Immortal Xu, the iplete second-rank talisman inheritance you bestowed upon Ling¡¯erst time has been of great help. Recently, Ling¡¯er managed to craft her first second-rank talisman, though just barely.¡±


    Yun Ling''s face beamed with joy, her delicate eyebrows raised in excitement as she eagerly reported her achievement to Lan Chang''an.


    Perhaps because of her gratitude and admiration, the first person she thought of after sessfully crafting the talisman was none other than Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°To achieve this at such a young age is truly remarkable,¡± Lan Chang''an said approvingly.


    He recalled that during his second life, he had be a third-rank talisman master and had crafted his first second-rank talisman at around the same age.


    The iplete second-rank talisman inheritance he had gifted Yun Ling was one he had previously shared with Guan Qiaozhi. Thetter had ordinary talent in talisman crafting and had spent decades of effort to master it.


    In this life, Yun Ling¡¯s innate talent allowed her to make rapid progress after receiving this inheritance, advancing at an impressive pace.


    Even though the talisman inheritance was iplete, for Yun Ling, its value far surpassed what it would offer to most other cultivators.


    Through this seemingly insignificant gesture, Lan Chang''an gave Yun Ling a helping hand, so that she could go further in the talisman path.


    ¡°Immortal Xu, here are the materials you asked me to gather.¡±


    Yun Ling took out a brocade pouch and handed it to Lan Chang''an.


    She had taken it upon herself to run errands and collectmon materials for him, often using it as an excuse to y with the Water Jet Turtle.


    At the same time, she had be an important bridge ofmunication between Lan Chang''an and the Treasure Pavilion.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s kind and caring attitude toward the Yun siblings as a Core Formation Immortal had sparked rumors among the cultivators in the oasis market.


    The stories circting were nothing more than gossip¡ªthat Lan Chang''an, a ¡°senior,¡± was harboring impure intentions toward a pretty young girl, an old cow trying to eat young grass.


    However, Granny Yun didn¡¯t listen to the rumors. She also didn¡¯t stop Yun Ling from asionally visiting Mountain-Water Manor.


    ording to the Yun siblings, the refined and amiable Immortal Xu, after years of living in the River Source Oasis, had never shown any improper behavior or made suggestivements toward Yun Ling.


    Even the iplete second-rank talisman inheritance he had given her was merely a token of appreciation for her running errands¡ªa trivial gesture to someone at his level.


    ...


    After a brief conversation, Lan Chang''an sent the Yun siblings away.


    Yun Hao hade this time to request Lan Chang''an¡¯s assistance in refining several rare and difficult pills to expand the inventory of Treasure Pavilion.


    As long as the remuneration was reasonable, Lan Chang''an saw no reason to refuse.


    After all, when he first arrived at the River Source Oasis, he had been destitute, ying the role of an alchemist held hostage by his circumstances. To make ends meet, he had eptedmissions for alchemy work from others.


    ¡°Among the descendants of Master Lihuo, some exceptional figures may emerge in the future,¡± Lan Chang''an thought as he watched the Yun siblings leave.


    The Master Lihuo had left behind some treasured resources for his descendants.


    With Granny Yun¡¯s careful guidance, the Yun siblings were destined for significant achievements in the years toe.


    In addition, one of Lan Chang''an¡¯s three alchemy apprentices, the in-looking Niu Jie, had shown promising talent in alchemy.


    Over the years of studying under Lan Chang''an, Niu Jie had made substantial progress in his alchemical techniques.


    The young man was humble, diligent, and eager to learn, making steady and solid advancements.


    ¡°Immortal Xu, there were two issues I couldn¡¯t figure out while refining pills a few days ago¡­¡±


    The dark-skinned Niu Jie approached cautiously, taking the opportunity to consult Lan Chang''an while he was free.


    After listening to Niu Jie¡¯s questions, Lan Chang''an realized the young man had a creative and open mind. He patiently exined the solutions and rified Niu Jie¡¯s doubts.


    ¡°If his cultivation level keeps up, Niu Jie¡¯s future aplishments in alchemy may even surpass mine,¡± Lan Chang''an mused.


    ...


    Over the next one or two years, peace in the River Source Oasis was disrupted.


    The friction between the Wan Hua Merchant Association and the Star Moon Merchant Association intensified, escting to outright conflicts.


    The Wan Hua Merchant Association, being a dominant powerhouse in the oasis, would have easily swallowed the Star Moon Merchant Association without causing much of a stir under normal circumstances.


    But things did not go as nned.


    It was said that the weaker Star Moon Merchant Association had hired a mysterious True Dan assassin from the ck market of the nearby immortal city, creating significant trouble for the Wan Hua Merchant Association.


    This mysterious assassin, in coboration with the Star Moon Merchant Association¡¯s Fake Dan couple leaders, had killed two of Wan Hua¡¯s Fake Dan cultivators and severely injured a True Dan cultivator with poison.


    Despite its immense strength, the Wan Hua Merchant Association found itself temporarily constrained. Not only was it unable to eliminate the Star Moon Merchant Association in a short period, but it also had to worry about the potential assassination of its key figures.


    Adding to its woes, Wan Hua¡¯spetitors in Gutian Immortal City were eagerly watching for any signs of weakness.


    As a result, instability spread across the River Source Oasis, even affecting the nearby Gutian Immortal City.


    Many factions began to pay attention to the mysterious assassin who had stirred up the situation in the oasis. The only thing known was that they hade from the ck market; their exact identity remained a mystery.


    One dayte at night.


    Deep in the northern part of the River Source Oasis, within the fortress of the Star Moon Merchant Association, a pair of extraordinary individuals¡ªa man and a woman in their thirties¡ªsat cross-legged in the rear garden, meditating with focused concentration.


    These two, Tang Mian and Tang Yue, were the famed Star Moon Dao Companions whose names had risen to prominence in the oasis over the past few years.


    The couple had a record of repelling and injuring True Dan cultivators during battle.


    Swish!


    From the shadows of the flower bushes, a figure in a gray-white robe and a dark cloak emerged, their features hidden beneath a broad-brimmed hat.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist ck Lord.¡±n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Tang Mian and Tang Yue instantly tensed. Rising to their feet, they greeted the figure with respect, their voices carrying a trace of fear.


    This mysterious assassin they had hired was incredibly skilled at concealment. Every time they appeared, it was only when they were already nearby that the couple sensed their presence.


    ¡°Your skills are impressive, Fellow Daoist. Even the formidable Chishe Immortal of the Wan Hua Merchant Association, with their unparalleledbat prowess, was severely injured by your attack and nearly died of poisoning,¡± Tang Mian said with a heartyugh, his sharp features exuding a sense of admiration.


    Tang Yue, her hair styled elegantly with a phoenix hairpin and her mature, graceful figure radiating charm, added in a soft yet seductive voice:


    ¡°Unfortunately, we couldn¡¯t finish off Chishe Immortal. If they had been killed, much of the crisis facing our Star Moon Merchant Association would have been resolved.¡±


    In the shadows, the assassin¡¯s facial features remained indistinct. His voice was cold and indifferent as he replied:


    ¡°I always deliver what I promise. At the very least, I could cripple the True Dan cultivator of the Wan Hua Merchant Association, weakening them for years toe. Were it not for their abundant supply of rare medicinal herbs and timely detoxification, thest assassination would have finished him off.¡±


    Unbeknownst to Tang Mian and Tang Yue, the assassin standing before them was actually the third-rank mid-grade assassin puppet remotely controlled by Lan Chang''an.


    Thanks to the disparity in their cultivation levels and the deliberate concealment under the cover of night, the Star Moon Dao Companions failed to notice anything unusual.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist ck Lord, here is your reward.¡±


    Tang Mian took out a jade box and tossed it toward the cloaked assassin.


    Tang Yue apologized, ¡°Our merchant guild has been running at a loss for years, and we¡¯re short on spirit stones. As per our agreement, the shortfall will bepensated with the first sixyers of the cultivation technique ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯ that my husband and I have cultivated.¡±


    The cloaked assassin opened the jade box. Inside were a few second-rank and third-rank materials along with a scroll of cultivation techniques.


    The scroll was adorned with diagrams of stars and constetions to aid in meditation and cultivation.


    ¡°The organization backing me, the Azure Dragon Society, is an ancient and mysterious force from the Great Qing Central Region. If you dare to provide a fraudulent cultivation technique, don¡¯t me me for being ruthless¡­¡±


    The assassin¡¯s dark cloak rippled briefly before his figure vanished from the couple¡¯s sight.


    Tang Mian and Tang Yue exchanged solemn nces.


    Only after confirming that the assassin had truly left did they set up a restriction barrier and beginmunicating through voice transmission.


    ¡°¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯ has extremely harsh cultivation requirements. We were only able to gain some insight into it due to our deep connection and the ancestral notes we inherited. Even giving him the Foundation Establishment portion of the technique doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Tang Yue said, her tone icy, entirely different from her earlier seductive demeanor.


    ¡°Ah, though that¡¯s true, this act still goes against the Tang family¡¯s ancestral teachings,¡± Tang Mian sighed.


    Although the two shared the same surname, Tang Mian and Tang Yue were not blood-rted. Tang Yue had been adopted as a spiritual root immortal seedling by Tang Mian¡¯s parents. Due to her excellent aptitude and beauty, she eventually became his betrothed.


    The ancestral history of the Star Moon Merchant Association imed that their forebears hade from overseas. Pursued by powerful enemies, they had fled into a forbidden area, only to awakenter in the legendary Heaven Honoured Continent.


    The ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯ was a lost cultivation technique that was unheard of in the Fengyuan Kingdom or even in the whole Great Qing, but it was renowned overseas for its immense power.


    This cultivation method originated from the Starmoon Pce, a sacrednd overseas.


    ording to the ancestral jade slip, their family¡¯s ancestors were disciples of the Starmoon Pce, and ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯ was its core scripture.


    The supreme rulers of the Starmoon Pce, the Star Sovereign and Moon Empress, were both Nascent Soul Great Cultivators. It was said that by cultivating the ninthyer of ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯, they could perform a peerlessbined divine ability capable of rivaling a Deity Transformation Realm Heavenly Lord.


    Tang Mian and Tang Yue were skeptical of these ims, after all, they had never set foot overseas.


    Moreover, the ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯ they had inherited was merely a fragmented version, allowing cultivation only up to the Core Formation stage.


    While the Foundation Establishment portion of the technique could be copied, starting from the Core Formation stage, one must observe the stone carvings of the Starmoon Pce to advance.


    ...


    Half an hourter.


    In the secret chamber of Mountain-Water Manor, Lan Chang''an unrolled the cultivation scroll of ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯, his eyes gradually reflecting a hint of astonishment.


    Previously, when he heard about the Star Moon Dao Companions¡ªa pair of Fake Dan cultivators who had joined forces to severely injure a True Dan cultivator¡ªhe had spected with his Nascent Soul-level insight that theirbined cultivation technique must have an extraordinary origin.


    Now, with the Tang couple unable to afford the full remuneration in spirit stones, Lan Chang''an had suggested they offset the debt by offering their cultivation technique instead, partly to satisfy his curiosity.


    After reading through the Foundation Establishment stage portion of ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯, Lan Chang''an came to realize its profundity. It might even rival the ¡®Ancient Trees Evergreen Technique¡¯, this Star Moon Jue technique truly contained unparalleled power.


    ¡°How strange... the style and characteristics of this technique are unlike anything I¡¯ve ever encountered, whether in my past life¡¯s Great Kun or this life¡¯s Great Qing,¡± Lan Chang''an mused as he set the scroll aside.


    After a long moment of contemtion, he still could not deduce the origins or background of ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯.


    This cultivation technique imposed stringent requirements on both aptitude andprehension.


    For a solitary cultivator, progressing in this technique would be arduous, though its power would still rival that of a superior technique.


    However, if practiced by a pair of Dao Companions with deep mutual understanding and special constitutions, the technique would produce twice the results with half the effort, achieving extraordinary might and even enabling battle power that surpassed their cultivation realm.


    Yet, its requirements were so demanding that Lan Chang''an could only shake his head.


    For someone like him, who led a solitary life, focused on health and restraint, ¡®Star Moon Jue¡¯ was practically out of reach.


    By contrast, Lan Chang''an¡¯s attention was more focused on leveraging the Star Moon Merchant Association to counterbnce the Wan Hua Merchant Association, ultimately aiming to acquire the main ingredient for a third-rank Life Extension Pill.


    Previously, he had covertly supported the Star Moon Merchant Association to keep the Wan Hua Merchant Association in check, causing them considerable annoyance.


    By remotely controlling the puppet assassin, he not only secured the assassin¡¯s reward but also earned an extra side profit.


    To avoid suspicion, when the mysterious assassin severely injured the True Dan cultivator from Wan Hua, Lan Chang''an had deliberately stayed in the River Source Oasis market, purchasing supplies. This eliminated any potential connection to him.


    None of the major factions in the oasis suspected that the so-called ¡°assassin¡± was nothing more than a puppet.


    Ordinary puppets could not be controlled from such a distance, nor could they conceal their ws duringbat.


    In truth, with Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength,bined with his Earth Burrowing Rat and multiple high-grade puppets, he could have easily crushed the Wan Hua Merchant Association in a frontal assault to seize the third-rank Life Extension Pill¡¯s main ingredient.


    However, his purpose in fleeing to the Fengyuan Kingdom was to lie low and cultivate in seclusion, ideally advancing to thete Core Formation stage.


    Cultivation was the foundation of everything. He could not afford to risk exposure or draw undue attention, as that would jeopardize his hard-won opportunity to cultivate in peace.


    Thus, he had positioned the Star Moon Merchant Association as the vanguard in the open, bearing the brunt of scrutiny and pressure from various factions.


    He himself remained in the shadows, interacting with the Star Moon Dao Companions only through his puppet clone.


    ...


    A monthter.


    Lan Chang''an turned 220 years old. Unknowingly, he had already spent seven or eight years in Fengyuan Kingdom.


    ¡°I wonder how the war against the demonic path invasion is progressing¡­¡±


    On this day, Lan Chang''an soaked in a third-rank medicinal bath, practicing the ¡®Golden Luo Overlord Body¡¯ technique, his thoughts drifting afar.


    His deep gaze seemed to pierce through the endless sandy desert, looking southward to the distant Liang Kingdom cultivation world.


    Due to the barrier of the Flying Sand Desert, information about the war from the Righteous Dao Alliance was difficult to obtain.


    Even the asional news that trickled in was often apanied by rumors and unreliable details.


    In the central desert of the Fengyuan Kingdom, most cultivators cared little for the wars raging beyond their borders.


    For tens of thousands of years, no matter how chaotic the outside world became, it rarely affected the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Of course, the Fengyuan Kingdom was no paradise¡ªit had plenty of internal conflicts and strife of its own.


    Ssh!


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s body, now magnified and hardened through the ¡®Golden Luo Overlord Body¡¯, emerged from the medicinal pool, resembling a golden bronze statue. The vitality radiating from his physique faintly touched the mid-third-rank level.


    Lan Chang''an estimated that his body refinement breakthrough would ur within the next year or so.


    Not only was his body refinement nearing a breakthrough, but it had also been 43 years since he had achieved Immortal Golden Dan.


    His cultivation progress in the early Core Formation stage was over 70%plete.


    Reaching the mid-Core Formation stage was no longer far off.


    ¡°If I can bring both my body refinement and mana cultivation to the mid-Core Formation stage¡­ by then, even without relying on the Nine Seal Stele, mybat strength may not be inferior to my peak in my past life¡­¡±


    Looking ahead to this near future, when he could surpass his past self, Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart surged with excitement.


    At that level, few cultivators below the Nascent Soul stage would pose any threat to him, including the Peacock Saintess who had once hunted him in the past.


    In high spirits, Lan Chang''an donned a fresh set of white robes and opened a bottle of premium third-rank spiritual wine he had been saving.


    Unfortunately, there was no close friend in Fengyuan Kingdom he could talk freely with.


    Not even a temporarypanion for a fleeting love.


    Feeling a slight tinge of regret¡ª


    Suddenly, Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart trembled!


    His mid-third-rank divination technique stirred, giving him an ominous premonition.


    ¡°Something must have happened¡­¡±


    Every two months, Lan Chang''an performed a divination to predict good or bad fortune. This time, the foreboding sense was unrted to himself.


    Instead, it involved an old acquaintance he had known for two centuries.


    ¡°A Great Cmity divination!¡±


    Lan Chang''an calcted further, and his expression immediately darkened.


    A great cmity meant at least a 90% chance of a life-threatening disaster.


    To obtain a more precise divination, Lan Chang''an pushed his divination technique to its limit, even expending a small portion of his lifespan in the process.


    However, the more he calcted, the grimmer his expression became.


    He divined that Zhao Siyao¡¯s fate had nearlye to an end, her connection to this world on the verge of severingpletely.


    ¡°Who made the move? A demonic battlefield¡­ a True Dan cultivator from the Beast King Valley¡­¡±


    A cold glint of killing intent shed in Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°I gave her a mid-third-rank escape talisman, and she had a puppet to protect her. A typical True Dan cultivator shouldn¡¯t be enough to put her in a life-or-death situation.¡±


    Lan Chang''an knew that in war,te Core Formation experts held a status second only to Nascent Soul cultivators. They typically wouldn¡¯t target a Fake Dan cultivator like Zhao Siyao.


    Pfft!


    Lan Chang''an spat out a mouthful of vital blood and retrieved several rare divination artifacts.


    As he pushed his divination further, delving into the karmic threads of cause and effect, the truth behind the cmity gradually surfaced.

 Chapter 297: Nascent Soul Forbidden Shackles

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    In the cultivation world of Feng Kingdom, at the Proud Moon Pce.


    On the snow-d main peak, shrouded in a blend of azure mists and rosy clouds, stood an expanse of jade-white ptial buildings, resembling celestial pces that dwell in the chilling heights of the heavens.


    The spiritual energy in the ice peak''s vicinity had unmistakably reached the fourth rank.


    Suddenly, a lotus tform with three-colored petals flew out from one of the jade pces.


    On the lotus tform stood a graceful female cultivator d in a moon-white pce dress. She appeared to be around twenty years old, her slender waist resembling a willow branch, her snow-likeplexion tranquil and picturesque. A faint trace of cool mncholy lingered between her brows, evoking the image of a solitary and ethereal fairy dwelling within an ice pce.


    ¡°Junior Sister Wenyue, our master forbids you from leaving the Proud Moon Pce¡¯s territory. This is her heartfelt concern all to protect your rare and special innate Dao physique.¡±


    A woman d in a gauzy dress, with a vermillion mark between her brows, emerged from the jade pce and descended onto the lotus tform.


    ¡°The demonic battlefield has now spread to the southeastern borders of Feng Kingdom. Even within the country, instability grows. Who can guarantee that no demonic cultivators are lurking? You¡¯ve only been at the Core Formation stage for two years. It would be better for you to cultivate in peace and polish your skills. Once you master life-saving techniques, Master will naturally allow you more freedom¡­¡±The woman in the gauzy dress spoke in a gentle tone, patiently trying to console her.


    ¡°Master does not keep her word.¡±


    Xia Wenyue lightly pursed her crimson lips and replied softly, ¡°She promised me that after forming my Core, I would be allowed to go out and visit my friends and family.¡±


    After sixty years of cultivation at the Foundation Establishment stage, Xia Wenyue had sessfully reached Core Formation two years ago. Her upper-tier Core was adorned with traces of Dao patterns, which was considered a ¡°Half-Step Golden Dan.¡±


    ¡°Times have changed. The Pce Mistress suffered severe injuries during the war with the demonic cultivators, and her Nascent Soul has been damaged. As her disciple and a pinnacle Core Formation cultivator with an Immortal Golden Dan, Master is now in seclusion, aiming to form her Nascent Soul. She has no spare energy to take care of your safety.¡±


    ¡°Senior Sister Nn is right. Wenyue should consider the bigger picture and not cause trouble for the sect or to our master.¡±


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s starlit eyes flickered, and she sighed softly, ceasing her insistence.


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you understand,¡± Senior Sister Nn said with relief.


    It was difficult to keep constant watch over a Core Formation cultivator if they were determined to leave.


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s "Cold Soul Jade Marrow" innate Dao physique began to nurture "Taiyin Jade Essence" after forming her Core. Once she advanced to the mid-tote stages of the Core Formation, it provided a slight boost toward ascending to the Nascent Soul Realm, making her a key figure under the close watch of the demonic sects.


    Even though the benefits of Taiyin Jade Essence were far inferior to the legendary "Infant Transformation Pill" and wasn''t a deciding factor, it still made Xia Wenyue a coveted individual.


    In Feng Kingdom, many outstanding young cultivators from powerful factions sought her favor.


    Even when Xia Wenyue was still in the Foundation Establishment stage, there were Core Formation experts who ¡°lowered themselves¡± to court her, sending gifts and expressing admiration.


    ¡°Although I won¡¯t leave carelessly, you must keep me informed of external developments, Senior Sister. Especially news from Jing Kingdom, and¡­¡±


    ¡°I know, you¡¯re concerned about your old teacher from before you joined the sect. I will definitely keep an eye out for news about him.¡±


    Senior Sister Nn smiled sweetly.


    ¡°Here, this jade slip contains some intelligence that might interest you,¡± she said as she handed over a jade slip.


    ¡°Thank you, Senior Sister.¡±


    Xia Wenyue stepped back onto her lotus tform and returned to her secluded mountain, which housed a third-rank spiritual vein.


    Standing on the edge of the lonely cliff, Xia Wenyue¡¯s eyes resembled tranquil autumnal waters, calm and still, but with a subtle chill that was hard to describe.


    Eight years ago, Lan Chang''an had mysteriously disappeared in the Liang Kingdom, leaving no trace.


    Lan Chang''an had no Daopanion or descendants. Moreover, he hadn¡¯t left behind a soulmp to monitor his life or death.


    Rumors circted that the "Turtle Immortal" had fled early to avoid the war.


    Some unconfirmed reports suggested that Lan Chang''an had been captured and killed by the Peacock Saintess of the demonic path, who sought the secrets of his cultivation of the Profound Water Turtle.


    Later, Xia Wenyue asked her senior sister to consult a gifted diviner about his fate. However, an invisible obstruction hindered the divination, leaving only the confirmation that Lan Chang''an was alive, though his fate was uncertain.


    ¡°Master Lan, sixty years have passed since west met¡­ A few more years, and I may forget your appearance altogether.¡±


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s delicate eyebrows furrowed slightly as she murmured to herself.


    It had been many years since Lan Chang''an had taken the initiative to contact her.


    The lengthy span of six decades had worn away her once-vivid feelings for him.


    Back when she was just an inexperienced young woman, she had harbored a faint, unspoken admiration for Lan Chang''an. Yet now¡­ those feelings had gradually faded.


    After joining the Proud Moon Pce and forming her Half-Step Golden Dan, Xia Wenyue had broadened her horizons. She was no longer the na?ve girl from her n who knew nothing of the world.


    Among Xia Wenyue¡¯s numerous admirers were prodigies with earth-grade spiritual roots, innate Dao physiques, and even sect geniuses who had already formed Golden Dans.


    Compared to these dazzling individuals, Lan Chang''an, who had only managed to form a low-tier core, appeared unremarkable. Even with his skills in talismans and medicine, he could only be considered mediocre within her current social circle.


    The man she had once revered and admired had long since lost the halo he once wore.


    She could even guess that Lan Chang''an had the same goal as her current suitors and was scheming for her Taiyin Jade Essence.


    The difference was that Lan Chang''an had never cloaked his intentions under the guise of love or courtship.


    She felt grateful that during her naive and inexperienced youth Lan Chang''an had never taken advantage of her, nor deceived her emotions or body.


    If she had lost her virginity back then, it would have affected her ability to produce Taiyin Jade Essence.


    Though her feelings had faded, Xia Wenyue still held gratitude in her heart and did not forget the kindness he had shown her in the past.


    Bound by a heart demon oath, she had kept their secrets and never revealed them to anyone.


    Returning to her secluded cave-dwelling, Xia Wenyue took out the jade slip her senior sister had given her and began reading the intelligence it contained.


    ¡°The Jing Kingdom has yet to suffer arge-scale invasion by demonic cultivators, only small skirmishes and asional probes¡­¡±


    ¡°The Xia Family in Qingsha Bay: the old patriarch¡¯s health is declining, with only twenty to thirty years left in his lifespan. Fortunately, Xia Mingqu has sessfully formed a Fake Dan.¡±


    ¡°Jin Yun Valley¡­ Hmm? That Fairy Zhao¡ªshe fell in battle! Her body destroyed, her jade-like beauty gone forever!¡±


    Xia Wenyue¡¯s calm demeanor finally wavered.


    She had once paid attention to Fairy Zhao¡¯s situation because she was one of Lan Chang''an¡¯s closest confidantes for over two centuries.


    Years ago, she had even regarded Zhao Siyao as a potential romantic rival. Now, thinking back, she couldn¡¯t help but sigh at the irony of it all.


    ¡°Fairy Zhao has fallen¡­ Will the elusive Master Lan, whose life and death are uncertain, show up?¡± she mused with a tinge of pity.


    Perhaps it was the inertia of having missed him for so long, but Xia Wenyue couldn¡¯t let go of a certain fixation in her heart.


    It had nothing to do with love or gratitude; she simply wanted to see the youthful and ageless Master Lan once more.


    ...


    Liang Kingdom, Jin Yun Valley.


    At Qunying Mountain, in front of a freshly erected tombstone.


    The slender and haggard Zhao Tan''er knelt on the ground, her robes in disarray, her eyes swollen and red as tears streamed down her face incessantly.


    ¡°Master, it¡¯s all my fault!¡±


    ¡°If only you hadn¡¯t given me that mid third-rank escape talisman, you wouldn¡¯t have died¡­¡±


    Over and over, Zhao Tan''er repeated the same sentence before the tombstone, her words carrying a hint of madness.


    The third-rank escape talisman was the best talisman Lan Chang''an had been able to produce at that time, apart from his treasure talismans.


    In truth, Zhao Tan¡¯er had already used the talisman two years ago during a life-or-death encounter in the demonic war, narrowly escaping death.


    Had it not been for that talisman, it would have been Zhao Tan''er who had died instead.


    Swoosh!


    A golden streak of light, emanating the aura of a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, descended from the sky.


    ¡°Are you certain that the culprit was the ck Crow Immortal?¡±


    Zhang Tieshan, his ck robes billowing as he waved his wide sleeves, lit an incense stick in front of the grave before speaking in a deep voice.


    ¡°Yes, Tan¡¯er saw it with her own eyes.¡±


    Zhao Tan''er wiped away her tears, clenching her silver teeth tightly as hatred and killing intent filled her voice.


    The ck Crow Immortal was a ruthless demonic cultivator from Beast King Valley, a mid-stage Core Formation expert.


    This individual¡¯s strength approached that of ate-stage Core Formation cultivator, and he had a record of killing righteous Core Formation cultivators in battle. His most impressive feat was holding off two mid-stage Core Formation cultivators simultaneously.


    ¡°If I encounter him on the battlefield and the opportunity arises, I, Zhang Tieshan, will personally kill this scoundrel to avenge you, Junior Sister Zhao.¡±


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s dark face revealed a rare anger as he cupped his hands and made a solemn promise.


    Apart from Lan Chang''an, Zhang Tieshan was Zhao Siyao¡¯s closest friend in life, as well as her fellow disciple under the same sect.


    ¡°Thank you, Uncle Zhang,¡± Zhao Tan¡¯er said, bowing deeply in gratitude.


    Her own strength was far from enough to contend with the ck Crow Immortal. If she were to encounter him alone, she would be fortunate just to escape alive.


    Zhang Tieshan, however, was a powerfulbatant. He had formed his True Dan eighteen years before Lan Chang''an and had now reached the mid-stage of Core Formation.


    In the entirety of Jin Yun Valley, aside from the Grand Elder, only Zhang Tieshan could go toe-to-toe with the ck Crow Immortal.


    ¡°I heard that when you found Junior Sister Zhao, she was hanging on by herst breath. Did she leave any final words of regret?¡±


    Zhang Tieshan fell silent for a moment, guilt flickering across his face.


    Due to the severe injuries of their sect master, Xuanxiao Immortal, Zhang Tieshan had been burdened with many of the sect leader¡¯s duties, leaving him little time to care for Zhao Siyao in her final years.


    As the acting leader of Jin Yun Valley, he had to act impartially as a representative of the sect. In the ongoing war with the demonic path, he couldn¡¯t openly favor anyone, no matter how close they were to him.


    ¡°Master said¡­ tell him not toe back,¡± Zhao Tan¡¯er said, biting her lower lip as she recounted her master¡¯s final words.


    At that time, Zhao Siyao, lying in Zhao Tan¡¯er¡¯s arms, had been on the verge of death. Her face was waxen, her appearance aged, and her chest, abdomen, and legs were pierced through by ck feathered needles.


    Zhao Tan¡¯er had been utterly helpless. In her desperation, she had wondered if she possessed Uncle Lan¡¯s medical skills, she might have been able to save her master.


    In fact, her master had left her two parting messages before passing.


    One of them Zhao Tan¡¯er kept buried deep in her heart and did not share with Zhang Tieshan.


    ¡°Him?¡±


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s expression turned contemtive as his resolute gaze shifted toward the distant northern horizon of Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    As the de facto leader of the sect, Zhang Tieshan was privy to certain confidential information. Based on what he knew, he suspected Lan Chang''an had fled deep into the Endless Flying Sand Desert, toward Fengyuan Kingdom.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, as Zhao Siyao¡¯s closest friend, I understand if you choose not to return for revenge. But as for ck Crow Immortal, I, Zhang, will kill him on your behalf!¡±


    Zhang Tieshan made a silent vow in his heart.


    However, he also knew that the ck Crow Immortal was one of the strongest mid-stage Core Formation cultivators. As someone who had only recently entered the mid-stage himself, Zhang Tieshan wasn¡¯t confident he could secure a kill within the next decade.


    The reason why he understood Lan Chang''an¡¯s decision was because Zhang Tieshan knew that the former was facing a far more terrifying enemy, which was the Peacock Saintess!


    Several months ago, Zhang Tieshan had participated in a battle alongside two other Core Formation cultivators, including ate-stage Core Formation expert, to oppose the Peacock Saintess.


    The result? Utter defeat.


    At that time, the Peacock Saintess hadn¡¯t even utilized her most powerful beast¡ªthe Five-Colored Peacock with heaven-grade bloodline.


    Zhang Tieshan¡¯s artifact spirit had warned him: this woman was incredibly dangerous, and he should avoid her at all costs.


    During the battle, the Peacock Saintess had even nced at him briefly, leaving a chilling remark:


    ¡°Tianfeng Immortal? I hear you have a close rtionship with the Turtle Immortal?¡±


    The moment she spoke, Zhang Tieshan felt his scalp tingle, as if he were being hunted by a predator.


    Even with his artifact spirit of the fragmented spiritual treasure, the Peacock Saintess, the Beast King Valley¡¯s top prodigy, was someone he could only look up to.


    Beast King Valley, as one of the top sects in the Great Qing, was rumored to possess a pseudo-spiritual treasure as its sect-guarding artifact, forged from the fragments of an actual spiritual treasure.


    Upon learning of Zhao Siyao¡¯s death, Zhang Tieshan had investigated the ck Crow Immortal and discovered that the man had once pursued the Peacock Saintess a hundred years ago.


    Eventually, the Peacock Saintess¡¯s achievements left the ck Crow Immortal feeling unworthy, so he simply embraced this thigh and became the Holy Maiden''spdog.


    Jin Yun Valley, being merely a mid-grade Core Formation sect within the Righteous Path Alliance, could never afford to provoke someone like the Peacock Saintess. Doing so might lead to retribution or even annihtion in the future.


    The Peacock Saintess wasn¡¯t just any ordinary Nascent Soul seed. Her chances of forming a Nascent Soul True Monarch were considerably high.


    With her profound foundation and the overwhelming talent of her "Myriad Spirits Dao Psysique," which granted her unparalleled control over spiritual beasts, she would stand out even among her peers if she reached the Nascent Soul Realm.


    ¡°Lan Chang''an, if you are not the reincarnation of Yan Doni, then it¡¯s best if you nevere back¡­¡±


    ...


    At the heart of the vast desert lies Fengyuan Kingdom''s eastern corner, in the River Source Oasis. A serene mountain manor served as a cultivation site.


    ¡°So, that¡¯s how it is,¡± Lan Chang''an muttered in a hoarse voice as he carefully stowed away several divination tools, stained with his own essence blood.


    He stood silently for a moment, mourning.


    Moments earlier, he had expended his lifespan and essence blood to perform a rtively precise divination.


    The result revealed a cruel truth: the fate of the Zhao master-disciple pair dictated that only one of them could survive.


    From this, Lan Chang''an deduced that Zhao Siyao likely handed over the third-rank mid-grade escape talisman to her only disciple, Zhao Tan¡¯er, whom she treated like a daughter.


    If given the choice again, Zhao Siyao would probably still sacrifice her own life to save Zhao Tan¡¯er. After all, with her Fake Dan cultivation, she would not have lived much longer than a hundred years, even under ideal circumstances.


    ¡°From the trigrams, it seems the Peacock Saintess wasn¡¯t directly responsible for Zhao Siyao¡¯s death. As the Saintess of Beast King Valley, she wouldn¡¯t bother personally targeting a mere Fake Dan cultivator.¡±


    ¡°However, even if she didn¡¯t explicitly order it, those beneath her¡ªCore Formation cultivators or admirers seeking her favor¡ªmight have acted on her unspoken intentions.¡±


    Lan Chang''an felt a pang of guilt. Zhao Siyao¡¯s death was, to some extent, entangled in the karmic web connected to him.


    Of course, even without his involvement, Zhao Siyao was destined to face such a cmity eventually.


    The act of giving the escape talisman to her disciple merely hastened the inevitable. The Peacock Saintess¡¯s indirect involvement had only elerated the process.


    On the demonic battlefield, the mortality rate was extraordinarily high. For a Fake Dan cultivator, they were regarded as little more than high-ranking cannon fodder.


    Fake Dan cultivators had no potential to advance further, and even if they were lost, a sect¡¯s strength wouldn¡¯t be significantly harmed. Hence, such cultivators were often assigned to high-risk tasks.


    ¡°So, she¡¯s trying to lure me back to Liang Kingdom?¡±


    Lan Chang''an picked up on the intent behind the Peacock Saintess¡¯s actions.


    After all, Zhao Siyao had been one of his closest friends in this world, a confidante and a red-floweredpanion.


    Lan Chang''an attempted to delve deeper into the karmic entanglements through divination, only to encounter an invisible barrier.


    ¡°Someone skilled in divination has shrouded the heavenly secrets. Their person''s means are above me,¡± Lan Chang''an murmured thoughtfully, ultimately abandoning his attempt.


    The art of divination was not omnipotent; it was subject to an unseen game of offense and defense.


    Just as one could uncover secrets, another could obscure them¡ªor even nt misleading ones.


    It was like a game of chess, with moves and countermoves.


    While the art of divination was niche, top-tier sects such as the Six Demonic Sects often employed masters of the craft to conceal their sect¡¯s secrets and strategies, thwarting outside attempts at divination.


    Additionally, rare treasures and materials existed that could resist or interfere with divinations, creating additionalyers of obstruction.


    Since divination had failed, Lan Chang''an turned to analyze the situation through the lens of a Nascent Soul True Monarch¡¯s perspective.


    After some time, his eyes gleamed as a sudden realization dawned upon him.


    ¡°Heh¡­ a little Peacock thinks she can trap me? How na?ve,¡± Lan Chang''an chuckled softly, his tone tinged with mockery.


    It all made sense now.


    Years ago, when the Peacock Saintess had pursued him, she had been utterly humiliated. Lan Chang''an had toyed with her, severing one of the three wings of her prized beast and damaging its essence. The Spirit-Taming Ring worn on her ankle, such a personal item, was also snatched away by Lan Chang''an.


    This grievous humiliation had dealt a heavy blow to the prideful Peacock Saintess, it even left a knot in her Dao heart.


    Even a small w in one¡¯s Dao heart could magnify into a catastrophic obstacle during the future Nascent Soul tribtion.


    Especially the terrifying Heart Demon Tribtion.


    Without untying the knot in her heart, the Peacock Saintess would find it nearly impossible to advance to the Nascent Soul Realm. The risk of failure would be astronomical.


    In fact, she might not even dare attempt the Nascent Soul tribtion at all.


    And even if she hired a Nascent Soul True Monarch to kill Lan Chang''an, it wouldn¡¯t solve the root of the problem. She would have to personally confront and defeat him to fully resolve her inner conflict and achieve rity of mind.


    Of course, this was merely Lan Chang''an¡¯s analysis based on his Nascent Soul-level insight.


    ¡°Almost a sure thing. Otherwise, the Peacock Saintess wouldn¡¯t have gone to the trouble of asking a skilled diviner to cover up this matter.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was now confident in his conclusions.


    With this revtion, he held the upper hand.


    It was equivalent to saying that he had control over the forbidden shackle tied to the Peacock Saintess¡¯s ascension to the Nascent Soul Realm.


    If Lan Chang''an chose to remain hidden, never revealing himself, the Peacock Saintess¡¯s chances of advancing to the Nascent Soul Realm would remain slim.


    If he denied her the opportunity to resolve her inner demons, she would have no hope of seeding.


    His only concern was that if the Peacock Saintess couldn¡¯t find him, she might retaliate by targeting Zhao Tan¡¯er, the descendants of Li Erqing, or even taking vengeance on Jin Yun Valley.


    ¡°The Peacock Saintess has only recently entered thete stage of Core Formation¡ªtwenty-some years ago, at most. She still has a long way to go before reaching the peak of Core Formation Realm,¡± Lan Chang''an estimated.


    He spected that the Peacock Saintess wouldn¡¯t be truly desperate until she began preparing to form her Nascent Soul, which could be decades away.


    By that time, the demonic invasion war would likely have reached its conclusion.


    Moreover, the Peacock Saintess¡¯s cultivation speed wasn¡¯t unrivaled. While her innate Dao physique granted her significant advantages in taming spiritual beasts, it didn¡¯t elerate her cultivation speed as much as an earth-grade spiritual root would.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    In the secret chamber of the estate, within a third-rank body-refinement medicinal pool.


    "Mid-stage Third Rank Body Refinement!"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s colossal dark-golden body shimmered faintly, covered in densely packed golden scales resembling fish scales. Slowly, the scales receded back into his skin, revealing his refined physique.


    The oppressive aura of his powerful body and blood vanished from the chamber.


    Half a monthter, Lan Chang''an had fully stabilized his cultivation and could now freely control the power of his Golden Luo Overlord Body.


    To the outside world, he dered that he was entering seclusion.


    In reality, he had quietly left the River Source Oasis.


    Lan Chang''an flew toward the outskirts of the desert, heading in the direction of Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    With his body refinement reaching the mid-stage of the third rank, Lan Chang''an¡¯s strength and self-preservation abilities had improved significantly.


    Even so, he had no intention of personally entering the Liang Kingdom cultivation world.


    Two monthster.


    Lan Chang''an arrived at the outskirts of the Flying Sand Desert, close to the border of the Liang Kingdom¡¯s cultivation world.


    ¡°Go!¡±


    Sitting within a sand beast cart buried beneath the sand, Lan Chang''an activated his puppet clone.


    Swoosh! n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    A figure cloaked in gray-white robes and a ck cape, wearing a wide-brimmed straw hat, blurred into motion. The assassin¡¯s silhouette vanished like an imperceptible shadow, entering the Liang Kingdom cultivation world.


    The straw hat assassin carried within it the soul power of Lan Chang''an¡¯s peak Core Formation life. Its spiritual sense was exceptional, and its mana cultivation level matched that of a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    The puppet could perform most of the general spells of human cultivators. In terms of stealth and concealment, it surpassed Lan Chang''an himself.


    This puppet was, in essence, Lan Chang''an¡¯s proxy, capable of handling dangerous tasks in his stead with little difference in efficacy.


    A few dayster.


    The straw hat assassin approached the Beast Taming Zhou Family and remotely performed an incantation to stabilize the Gu insect restriction in Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s mind.


    ording to the agreement, Lan Chang''an would remotely stabilize Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s Gu insect restriction every ten years.


    At the same time, Zhou Qingxuan controlled the Gu insect restriction embedded in Xing Peng, an Incense Master of the Unseen Gate.


    Now, it was merely a year ahead of schedule.


    Beast Taming Zhou Family, supreme elder¡¯s cave mansion.


    ¡°Could it be? Is that old ghosting back?¡±


    Zhou Qingxuan, d in an elegant pale-yellow dress and bearing the delicate face of a young maiden, felt an inexplicable sense of foreboding. Her expression shifted to one of shock and dread.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t good! ording to Xing Peng, the Unseen Gate has spies near the Zhou Family, Little Turtle Peak, and Jin Yun Valley¡­¡±


    Her brows furrowed deeply as worry gripped her heart, not daring to go out easily.


    Half an hourter, Zhou Qingxuan suddenly noticed the protective formation in her cave mansion being activated.


    ¡°Who?!¡±


    Breaking into a cold sweat, she turned toward the shadows cast by her window drapes, where a mysterious figure wearing a bamboo hat slowly emerged.


    ¡°I go by the code name ¡®ck Lord,¡¯ a member of the Azure Dragon Society. I am here on the orders of my master to neutralize the Gu insect restriction in your mind and ask you a few questions.¡±


    The straw hat figure¡¯s voice was low and raspy. A soundproof barrier had already been set up within the room.


    ¡°The Azure Dragon Society? The Lord that Your Excellency is talking about¡­¡±


    Zhou Qingxuan¡¯s face went pale, her heart trembling with terror as she stared at the mysterious straw hat figure standing mere feet away.


    The Beast Taming Zhou Family was protected by a third-rank formation and guarded by keen-sensed spirit beasts. Even a mid-tote-stage Core Formation cultivator would find it challenging to infiltrate her chamber undetected.


    ...


    Seven dayster, outskirts of the Flying Sand Desert.


    St!


    Lan Chang''an emerged from the sand, brushing off grains from his robes. He gestured, and the straw hat assassin flew back to him, disappearing into his storage pouch.


    Through the puppet, Lan Chang''an had sessfullymunicated with Zhou Qingxuan and gained detailed information about the current state of the war between the Righteous Alliance and the demonic path.


    This included further details regarding Zhao Siyao¡¯s death.


    ¡°The demonic invasion has focused on encircling and attacking Feng Kingdom. Yet, they haven¡¯tunched a major offensive against Jing Kingdom?¡±


    Lan Chang''an frowned, surprised by this revtion.


    Having been away for nearly nine years, he hadn¡¯t expected Jing Kingdom to remain rtively unscathed.


    Neither the Feng Kingdom nor Jing Kingdom had fallen, so the mes of war hadn¡¯t yet spread to Liang Kingdom.


    Had it not been for the Peacock Saintess, Lan Chang''an might have continued cultivating in Liang Kingdom¡¯s Jin Yun Valley for many more years¡ªperhaps even long enough to alter Zhao Siyao¡¯s fate.


    ¡°ck Crow Immortal¡­ the direct killer of Zhao Siyao.¡±


    With this vital intelligence, Lan Chang''an refrained from lingering further and retraced his steps back to the depths of the desert in the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    No one could have guessed that Lan Chang''an had just made a trip back to the Liang Kingdom cultivation world in such an unconventional manner.


    Through this operation, Lan Chang''an gained deeper insights into the usage of his puppet clone.


    He began contemting a future where he could craft ate-stage Core Formation-level puppet clone. Such a creation would bring about a qualitative leap inbat strength, it would be no less than his personal presence on the battlefield.


    By then, he wouldn¡¯t have to take risks personally; through remote control, he could exact revenge for Zhao Siyao.


    Not only that, but he could also retaliate against the Peacock Saintess. He would strike back in kind, forcing her to restrain herself from dragging innocent individuals¡ªhis old friends and their descendants¡ªinto the conflict.


    The Peacock Saintess wasn¡¯t invincible. She had disciples, family, and a n of her own.


    If she believed she could threaten Lan Chang''an, a solitary cultivator with a long lifespan who did not take a wife or have children, she was gravely mistaken.

 Chapter 298: Cultivation in the Oasis

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    One yearter, Lan Chang''an returned to the oasis, marking the tenth year of his stay in the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    He was now 222 years old.


    Over the past decade, Lan Chang''an focused primarily on secluded cultivation. Despite possessing enough conventional methods to dominate the oasis, he remained behind the scenes.


    His body refinement had reached the mid-stage of the third rank.


    Next, he nned to continue his secluded cultivation until he reached the mid-stage of the Core Formation realm. At that time, he would advance his ns, including mastering advanced puppet techniques.


    If he could refine a superior grade third-rank exotic spirit puppet and infuse it with the soul shadow of his second life, Lan Chang''an would be able to avenge Zhao Siyao without risk.


    He might even use it to remotely checkmate the Peacock Saintess and give her a hard time.


    In the Mountain-Water Manor¡¯s secret chamber, Lan Chang''an was nurturing over sixty treasure talismans using his Evergreen mana.These talismans were all forged with third-rank materials. Aside from a few refined in recent years, most had been nurtured to mid-grade third-rank quality.


    Among them, there were eight superior-grade treasure talismans.


    Using the third-rank superior-grade "Tong Ghost Bamboo" acquired years ago in a trade with Wang Feng as the base material, these talismans had now been nurtured into superior-grade third-rank treasure talismans.


    Of these, the two strongest had already reached near-peak third-rank power, as they were superior grades from the start.


    The eight most promising treasure talismans were Lan Chang''an¡¯s contingency ns against Nascent Soul experts and a secret weapon to hold against the Peacock Saintess.


    He had a premonition that his karmic ties with the Peacock Saintess would have to be resolved sooner orter.


    The Peacock Saintess might have a Nascent Soul trump card, so Lan Chang''an needed to prepare even more thoroughly.


    "My talisman crafting in this life has fully surpassed my previous one," Lan Chang''an remarked with satisfaction as he stored the numerous treasure talismans away.


    In terms of power, the two strongest talismans had already surpassed anything he had achieved in his past life.


    In his second life, he had barely managed to be a third-rank superior-grade talisman master, and he hadn¡¯t created many superior-grade talismans in his lifetime.


    One reason was the rarity of materials. Refining them required items like the blood ofte-third-rank great demons and rare hide from critical body parts.


    Simrly, spirit wood of the same rank took an even longer time to mature.


    Another reason was the low sess rate of creating superior-grade third-rank talismans.


    After finishing the nurturing process, Lan Chang''an retrieved a sealed jade box.


    Inside the boxy a vividly lifelike five-colored feather, its aura carefully masked.


    This was one of the three great crown feathers of the Five-Colored Peacock.


    The Peacock Saintess¡¯s beast-taming cultivation method was deeply tied to the Five-Colored Peacock, her life-bound beast.


    The loss of her life-bound beast¡¯s essence origin would hinder her progress on the Nascent Soul path.


    This was a critical factor behind the mental knot that had been guing her.


    Lan Chang''an suspected that the Peacock Saintess wanted to lure him back to Liang Kingdom to retrieve this severed feather and resolve her heart knot.


    Next, Lan Chang''an began nurturing the feather with his Evergreen mana to cultivate its spirituality.


    From the records of the Record of Transformative Spirit Puppets he obtained from Ada Wan, Lan Chang''an found several blueprints for crafting exotic spirit puppets imitating mythical true spirit beasts, including the Five-Colored Peacock.


    This feather was the only key material Lan Chang''an had been able to acquire for crafting such a puppet.


    In the future, as long as his craftsmanship improved and he gathered a few more rare materials, Lan Chang''an could begin building a replica of the Five-Colored Peacock spirit puppet.


    Although the replica wouldn¡¯t match the power and abilities of the original, it wouldn¡¯t be difficult for it to surpass other cultivators of the same rank.


    In order to y it safe, Lan Chang''an not only used refining techniques to erase the feather¡¯s original aura but also applied seals and divination-blocking techniques to prevent tracking.


    Over the years, Lan Chang''an had faintly sensed that the Peacock Saintess had enlisted the help of a master diviner, likely one of superior-grade third-rank.


    When his puppet clone returned to Liang Kingdom to gather information, he learned that the lifespan of that divination master was nearly exhausted.


    Now that Lan Chang''an understood the situation and had prepared for it, even if the diviner came to Fengyuan Kingdom in person to track him down, Lan Chang''an remained confident and unafraid.


    After all, his 1,100 years of remaining lifespan was his greatest advantage.


    ...


    The following year.


    On River Source Oasis, arge-scale conflict erupted between two major merchant guilds, involving hundreds of cultivators in battle.


    Unlike the structured order of an immortal city, River Source Oasiscked such stability.


    As one of the leading powers in the region, the Wan Hua Merchant Association was a key enforcer of the local order.


    Years ago, Wan Hua''s Core Formation elder had been gravely injured during the assassination attempt. However, he had now fully recovered from his wounds.


    The mysterious assassin, who had vanished without a trace in the intervening years, seemed to have disappeared entirely.


    Logically speaking, the Star Moon Merchant Association, struggling with financial constraints, couldn¡¯t possibly afford to retain the assassin''s services over the long term.


    This assumption emboldened the Wan Hua Merchant Association to instigate a direct sh, aiming topletely eliminate the Star Moon Merchant Association in the absence of their enigmatic protector. They hoped to consolidate their dominance and reassert their authority over River Source Oasis.


    However, Wan Hua had made a grave miscalction.


    In the midst of the guild war, that very same mysterious assassin reappeared.


    Like a shadow clinging to bone, relentless and inescapable.


    ...


    In front of the river bay where the two major guilds were fighting in fire.


    ¡°Elder Chishe has been assassinated again!¡±


    ¡°Quick, chase him down! Don¡¯t let the assassin escape!¡±


    Chaos erupted in the ranks of the Wan Hua Merchant Association¡¯s forces.


    Boom!


    A foul-smelling cloud of ck smoke suddenly exploded, spreading across several li and shrouding the battlefield in darkness.


    A mysterious figure, draped in a gray-white robe and a ck cloak, unleashed a deadly attack. The man, with a straw hat obscuring his face, vanished into the shadows of the ck fog after his strike.


    ¡°Stop¡­ don¡¯t chase him!¡±


    A gaunt old man with a sinister expression and a snake staff tightly clutched the sleeve arrow that had pierced through his chest from behind. Trembling, he copsed to the ground.


    In fact, the nearby few Fake Dan elders from Wan Hua merely postured as if they were going to give chase., despite their loud roars, none of them dared to actually pursue the assassin.


    Elder Chishe was a True Dan expert, in his prime, responsible for the security of Wan Hua¡¯s trade caravans.


    Even someone as powerful as him had fallen victim to the assassin twice. For Fake Dan cultivators to pursue him would be no different from throwing their lives away.


    ¡°It¡¯s bad! The poison is mid-grade third-rank!¡±


    Elder Chishe¡¯s body convulsed, and the crimson veins of his protective Core Formation energy on his body flickered unsteadily.


    From the Core within his dantian, waves of excruciating pain radiated outward as the strange and insidious poison corroded him from the inside.


    With his Core poisoned, trying to purify it with core energy would be as futile as drinking poison to quench thirst.


    ¡°Elder Chishe!¡±


    The senior cultivators of the Wan Hua Merchant Association turned pale as they watched the scene unfold.


    Within mere moments, the poison took full effect. The once-mighty Core Formation cultivator''s body began emitting ck and blue toxic fumes, tainting the air around him.


    ¡°Aahh! Help me¡­¡±


    Several nearby Foundation Establishment cultivators who identally came into contact with the poisonous smoke found their skin rapidly decaying. Two of them died on the spot as the toxin overwhelmed them.


    ¡°Quick, get away from him!¡±


    ¡°Elder Chishe has be a poison zombie!¡±


    Panic swept through the ranks of the Wan Hua Merchant Association, and their formation fell intoplete disarray.


    Meanwhile, another Core Formation elder from Wan Hua¡ªa female cultivator¡ªwas locked in battle with the Fake Dan couple from the Star Moon Merchant Association.


    The duo wielded their signature technique, Star Moon Jue,bining their powers to drive her back step by step.


    With Elder Chishe, their most experiencedbatant, incapacitated, and the guild¡¯s forces thrown into chaos, Wan Hua, despite its numerical superiority, found itself at a distinct disadvantage.


    ¡°Retreat! Protect the¡­ the medicine garden¡­¡±


    Before Elder Chishe copsed unconscious, he managed to force out a few final words.


    The Wan Hua Merchant Association had monopolized most of the oasis¡¯s spirit wood and medicinal herb resources, including many rare spiritual nts.


    If they were defeated today, their first priority would be to secure their most critical assets.


    Fortunately, the Wan Hua Merchant Association¡¯s spirit vein medicine garden was located deep within their territory and was constantly guarded by a veteran Core Formation alchemist.


    This elder was the guild¡¯s most senior True Dan expert, and had been stationed there for decades.


    ...


    All the major factions in River Source Oasis were closely monitoring the conflict between the two merchant guilds.


    Meanwhile, Lan Chang''an remotely controlled his puppet assassin clone, quietly infiltrating the Wan Hua Merchant Association¡¯s spiritual vein hidden in a cliffside.


    ¡°Hmm! The medicine garden¡¯s formation is active, and there are signs of battle?¡±


    Lan Chang''an was surprised. He hadn¡¯t expected the Core Formation bigwig stationed on the ind to respond so quickly.


    Just as the puppet assassin sessfully carried out the assassination, tipping the scales in the conflict, Wan Hua¡¯s medicine garden came under attack by two Core Formation cultivators working in tandem.


    Not only that, but a mid-stage Core Formation expert, hidden in the shadows, also joined the assault.


    None of this escaped the senses of Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppet, whose perception was amplified by the second life peak Core Formation spiritual sense.


    The medicine garden¡¯s guardian was a white-haired alchemist, an experienced Core Formation cultivator.


    After activating the protective formation, the old man calmly directed the defenses, holding off thebined assault of the two Core Formation attackers.


    But before long, the mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, who had been hiding, circled around and attacked a weak point in the formation.


    Boom!


    A gap was torn open in Wan Hua¡¯s powerful third-rank array.


    The mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, wearing a monkey-faced mask to block spiritual sense detection, slipped into the medicine garden and began looting.


    This individual appeared to be very familiar with theyout, heading straight for the most valuable area of the garden, which contained treasures cultivated for centuries, including the prized third-rank Longevity Fruit.


    ¡°Stop!¡± The white-haired alchemist roared in anger, summoning his magical treasure to intercept the masked intruder.


    Despite his advanced age, the alchemist¡¯s Core Formation energy still barely reached the mid-stage, though his frail body andck ofbat-focused techniques made him only marginally stronger than a typical early-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    ¡°Ah, so it¡¯s all old men,¡± Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppet noted with amusement as his spiritual sense swept over the area. He realized that all three Core Formation cultivators involved¡ªwhether defending or attacking¡ªwere over 400 years old, with the youngest being at least 350.


    The white-haired alchemist desperately blocked the mid-stage Core Formation intruder, preventing him from reaching the garden¡¯s core area.


    Two Fake Dan elders from Wan Hua joined the defense, leveraging the array to barely hold off the three Core Formation attackers.


    After about the time it takes to brew a cup of tea, Wan Hua¡¯s main forces, who had been retreating from the earlier battlefield, arrived to reinforce the medicine garden.


    ¡°It''s a pity¡­¡±


    The monkey-masked cultivator reluctantly withdrew with the other two Immortals after looting a portion of the garden¡¯s herbs.


    ¡°Alchemist Lan! The third-rank Longevity Fruit is gone! And several other rare third-rank herbs as well¡­¡±


    A Foundation Establishment spiritual nt caretaker rushed over, his voice trembling with panic as sweat poured down his forehead.


    ¡°The Longevity Fruit? Impossible! I clearly stopped them¡­¡±


    The white-haired alchemist scanned the area with his spiritual sense, his expression shifting dramatically as disbelief set in.


    Moments earlier, he had fought to the point of shortening his lifespan, using the array to protect the core area¡¯s rare treasures.


    Even the mid-stage Core Formation intruder had failed to breach the defenses of the restricted area.


    Yet somehow, the Longevity Fruit and several other precious treasures had still been stolen.


    ¡°Traces of earth escape?¡±


    The alchemist arrived at the restricted area, heavily warded withyers of restrictions. Normally, even a Core Formation cultivator couldn¡¯t steal anything under the noses of so many experts.


    Upon closer inspection, faint demonic energy residues were detected.


    The alchemist pondered for a moment and then concluded, ¡°It must have been a third-rank beast skilled in earth escape techniques. It took advantage of the chaos to quietly steal the Longevity Fruit and other treasures.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Cultivators of the same rank may study earth escape techniques, but they cannot match the innate talent of beasts and demons in such arts.


    ¡°Just as human cultivators can¡¯t match avian creatures in flight speed.¡±


    What shocked him even more was that the third-rank beast had somehow bypassed several restrictions and avoided triggering rms.


    Its methods were so practiced that it was likely a repeat offender.


    ¡°Beasts are generally poor at handling restrictions. This third-rank earth-escaping demon beast was probably directed by someone behind the scenes who provided it with talismans for breaking restrictions and concealing its presence.¡±


    The alchemist reached a rough conclusion.


    The mastermind, if not the Star Moon Merchant Association or the mysterious assassin, was likely one of the other major forces in the oasis.


    ...


    That night.


    News of the theft from Wan Hua¡¯s medicine garden and Elder Chishe¡¯s death by poison spread like wildfire across River Source Oasis.


    At the serene Mountain-Water Manor.


    Chirp!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    A faint yellow glow rippled across a pool as the figure of the Earth Burrowing Rat emerged.


    Evading the senses of three herb caretakers, the Earth Burrowing Rat scurried into Lan Chang''an¡¯s room and delivered its spoils.


    ¡°Not bad! A third-rank Longevity Fruit, Scarlet Sun Grass, and key auxiliary herbs for Crystal Condensation Pills¡­¡±


    Lan Chang''an smiled as he examined the haul.


    The only disappointment was that the Longevity Fruit was about 20 years away from full maturity.


    But if it had been fully ripe, it wouldn¡¯t have been his to im in the first ce.


    His original n had been simple: use his puppet assassin to poison Wan Hua¡¯s medicine garden, causing chaos to distract the guardian. The Earth Burrowing Rat would then take the opportunity to steal the Longevity Fruit.


    Unexpectedly, several other old-timers had also targeted Wan Hua¡¯s medicine garden, saving him the trouble and resources.


    Using third-rank mid-grade puppet crystals forbat consumed a significant amount of spirit stones to refine.


    To conserve puppet crystals, the assassin puppet typically stayed dormant, consuming minimal resources.


    Even in battle, Lan Chang''an relied on opportunistic tactics.


    The puppet would always strike from the shadows, ambushing targets. After a single attack¡ªwhether sessful or not¡ªit would immediately retreat, avoiding prolongedbat.


    ¡°Hmm, I¡¯ve now collected most of the ingredients for a third-rank Life Extension Pill.


    ¡°Additionally, the rare herbs from this haul will supplement the key materials for the Crystal Condensation Pill.¡±


    Lan Chang''an was in high spirits.


    When the time was right, he nned to personally refine both the Life Extension Pill and the Crystal Condensation Pills.


    Although the Crystal Condensation Pills were currently of no use to him, they were valuable strategic resources. He could trade them for other resources, such as Life Extension Pills or materials for more advanced puppets.


    He currently had only one third-rank mid-grade puppet¡ªnot because he didn¡¯t want to refine more, but because gathering the necessary materials took years.


    Crafting a superior-grade third-rank puppet, which corresponded tote-stage Core Formation cultivators, required materials that were several times harder to acquire.


    It was almost unimaginable how much wealth and rare resources the Thousand Mechanisms Sect must have consumed to create Nascent Soul-level puppets.


    ...


    Half a monthter.


    Lan Chang''an received confirmed news: Elder Chishe of the Wan Hua Merchant Association had narrowly survived. However, the Core in his dantian had been corroded by poison, causing his cultivation to fall to the Fake Dan stage.


    Had it not been for the guild¡¯s third-rank alchemist providing timely treatment, Elder Chishe would have undoubtedly died from the poison.


    This oue was precisely what Lan Chang''an had anticipated.


    If his puppet assassin had delivered a follow-up strike during the battle, Elder Chishe would have surely perished. However, such a move would have required the puppet to engage in openbat under the watchful eyes of many, increasing the risk of the puppet¡¯s true nature being exposed.


    Lan Chang''an had no deep-seated grudge against the Wan Hua Merchant Association, nor did he seek their destruction.


    Thus, during his first assassination attempt, he had only used a low-grade third-rank poison.


    The ideal result was to maintain a bnce of power between the Wan Hua and Star Moon Merchant Associations.


    As long as the Star Moon Merchant Association remained slightly weaker, they would continue to rely on the straw hat assassin.


    In the future, whenever Lan Chang''an needed to collect specific materials, he could issue orders to the Star Moon Merchant Association as ck Lord, a member of the Azure Dragon Society.


    In contrast to the severely weakened Wan Hua Merchant Association, the Star Moon Merchant Association gained significant prestige from the battle.


    The terrifying strength of the mysterious assassin left a deep impression on the people of River Source Oasis.


    Soon after, the Star Moon Merchant Association officially announced that their operations had turned profitable and were back on track. They opened their doors to recruit talented individuals widely.


    With Lan Chang''an¡¯s support, the Star Moon Merchant Association secured a firm foothold in the oasis and inflicted severe losses on the Wan Hua Merchant Association.


    Out of fear of the mysterious assassin, other major forces in the oasis began building friendly ties with the Star Moon Merchant Association and refrained from provoking them.


    In essence, Lan Chang''an had single-handedly reshaped the power dynamics of the entire oasis.


    There were note-stage Core Formation cultivators in River Source Oasis.


    Lan Chang''an, with his mid-stage third-rank body refinement,bined with his puppet assassin clone and the Earth Burrowing Rat of the same cultivation level, had no true rival.


    Moreover, operating from behind the scenes, he enjoyed unparalleled security.


    Lan Chang''an even joked to himself:


    "Whether River Source Oasis is peaceful or chaotic¡­ it¡¯s up to me, Old Lan, to decide."


    ...


    That evening, the straw hat assassin visited the Star Moon Merchant Association and had another private meeting with the guild¡¯s leaders, Tang Mian and Tang Yue, the Star Moon Dao Couple.


    The puppet clone returned to the Mountain-Water Manor with the payment.


    Back at the secret chamber.


    Lan Chang''an opened a box containing spirit stones, rare materials, and a white jade tablet.


    The jade tablet had a mural etched into it, depicting a starry sky.


    To cultivate the Core Formation chapter of the Star Moon Jue, one needed to meditate on this mural as part of the process.


    The Tang couple, who had frequently requested ck Lord¡¯s help and protection,cked sufficient spirit stones and resources to cover their debts.


    Aspensation, they allowed him to borrow this starry sky mural for half a month to offset part of the payment.


    "Inheritance Imprint!"


    Lan Chang''an studied the mural, and his mind was soon immersed in a mysterious space filled with endless stars. The profoundness of it was breathtaking.


    The core techniques of many major factions couldn¡¯t simply be stored in ordinary jade slips or books.


    Instead, such techniques were passed down through special spiritual objects to enableprehension and, at the same time, prevent their secrets from being leaked.


    After meditating, Lan Chang''an noticed that the spiritual energy within the mural had dimmed slightly.


    Without sufficient cultivation or a deep enough understanding of the Star Moon Jue, one wouldn¡¯t be able to imprint its knowledge.


    In his previous life, Lan Chang''an had witnessed a treasure imbued with a Nascent Soul elder¡¯s insights spark a bloody struggle in Great Kun.


    Because the inheritance treasure contained the cultivation insights and divine abilities of the Nascent Soul old monster, etched into it.


    Even someone with mediocre talent orprehension could defy their destiny and achieve incredible progress through the inheritance treasure!


    Unlike those treasures, this starry sky mural did not contain pre-etched insights. It required the user to slowlyprehend the technique through observation and meditation.


    For Lan Chang''an, who had the insights of a Nascent Soul cultivator and relying on the spiritual power of his second life soul, replicating such a mural wasn¡¯t too difficult¡ªsomething ordinary Core Formation cultivators could never hope to aplish.


    Although Lan Chang''an couldn¡¯t cultivate the Star Moon Jue in this lifetime, he wasn¡¯t limited to just one life, thanks to the Nine Seal Stele.


    Thisbined attack technique, capable of surpassing whole cultivation realms, was as profound as his Evergreen Technique. Even if he couldn¡¯t use it himself, keeping a copy on hand was wise.


    Even in this life, with his long lifespan and eventual advancement to higher realms, the technique could serve as a resource to train future disciples or subordinates.


    ...


    After the battle between the two merchant guilds.


    The River Source Oasis returned to peace and stability, passing the next five years without incident.


    By now, Lan Chang''an had reached the age of 228.


    During these five years, he lived quietly in the Mountain-Water Manor, focusing on his cultivation and avoiding worldly entanglements. asionally, he would take on alchemymissions.


    During this time, Elder Duan made a visit to the estate. He expressed his satisfaction with Lan Chang''an¡¯s low-profile and diligent demeanor, especially appreciating how he refrained from stirring up trouble.


    Elder Duan also brought two new alchemy apprentices to rece the old ones, but Niu Jie was allowed to stay at the estate to continue learning from Lan Chang''an.


    As per their original agreement, Lan Chang''an¡¯s responsibilities included overseeing the estate, epting a certain number of alchemymissions, and training three alchemy apprentices every ten years.


    One day, Yun Ling, who had reached the peak of the ninthyer of Qi-Refining stage, came to the estate to visit again.


    Lan Chang''an happened to be free and was sitting in a pavilion, enjoying tea.


    ¡°Mister Xu, Ling¡¯er brought you some spirit fruits.¡±


    Yun Ling gave a light bow and ced a flower basket on the stone table in front of Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°I hear you¡¯re preparing to break through to Foundation Establishment?¡± Lan Chang''an asked.


    In the decade she had been visiting the Mountain-Water Manor, Yun Ling came by almost monthly to y with the "Water Jet Turtle," however, due to Lan Chang''an¡¯s frequent secluded cultivation, they didn¡¯t always meet.


    Lan Chang''an noticed that Yun Ling¡¯s grandmother had likely given her a second-rank Beauty Retaining Pill.


    Even after all these years, she still looked like the same fresh and pure young woman with bright starry eyes, snow-white skin, and a slender, willowy figure.


    ¡°Mm, Grandma said it¡¯s best to rx my state of mind before attempting a major breakthrough, so I came to the estate to y with Big Turtle,¡± Yun Ling said with a sweet smile, her dimples showing as her voice carried a light, happy tone.


    Perhaps because of their natural affinity or the many years they had known each other, Yun Ling no longer showed the nervousness she had when she first met Lan Chang''an. Her demeanor was now rxed and natural, as though they were old friends reunited after many years.


    Woosh!


    The Water Jet Turtle floated up from the pond, carrying Yun Ling on its back as it wandered around the estate.


    Seated cross-legged on the turtle¡¯s back with her arms wrapped around her knees, Yun Ling nced over at Lan Chang''an, who was sampling the spirit fruits she had brought.


    For some reason, her delicate face suddenly flushed red, and her heart began to race.


    Over the years, Yun Ling had experienced a recurring dream.


    In the dream, she found herself inexplicably in an intimate rtionship with the refined and handsome Mister Xu.


    Despite having no such experiences in reality, the scenes of affection in her dream were vivid and detailed to an uncanny degree.


    What embarrassed her even more was that, in the dream, she had been the one to initiate the intimacy¡ªsomething entirely out of character for her.


    Every time she recalled the dream, Yun Ling couldn¡¯t help but blush and feel flustered.


    Though she found Mister Xu pleasant and even somewhat endearing, her feelings had not reached the point of true admiration or love.


    This secret was so mortifying that she had told no one about it¡ªnot even her grandma, with whom she shared everything.


    After half an hour, the Water Jet Turtle brought Yun Ling back to the pavilion, where she prepared to take her leave.


    ¡°Mister Xu, Ling¡¯er is about to attempt Foundation Establishment. Since you¡¯re a Core Formation expert, could you offer me some guidance?¡±


    Yun Ling stepped off the turtle¡¯s back, her bright eyes filled with anticipation as she looked at him.


    Years earlier, Lan Chang''an had given her an iplete talisman crafting inheritance materials. Though it was seemingly ordinary, it had greatly benefited her.


    Thanks to that guidance, she had be a second-rank talisman master.


    ¡°Since I¡¯m free, I¡¯ll share a few thoughts,¡± Lan Chang''an said, motioning for Yun Ling to sit beside him.


    He then began exining his insights into Foundation Establishment, recounting the guidance he had once given to Guan Qiaozhi.


    Yun Ling listened attentively, her delicate face asionally lighting up with expressions of understanding and enlightenment.


    Although Lan Chang''an¡¯s pointers were not necessarily better than those of her grandmother, they resonated with her in a way that made her feel she grasped the concepts more fully.


    Despite her above-average mid-grade spiritual roots, solid foundation, and abundant resources, there was still a certain possibility of failure.


    ¡°Mister Xu, if Ling¡¯er seeds in reaching Foundation Establishment, I¡¯ll be sure to repay your kindness,¡± Yun Ling said solemnly as she bowed deeply before departing to prepare for her breakthrough.

 Chapter 299: Lurking Foes

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Two monthster, Yun Ling sessfully advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage.


    After consolidating her cultivation, Yun Ling promptly made her way to the Mountain-Water Manor to express her gratitude. Apanying her was her elder brother, Yun Hao.


    "Mister Xu, this is Ling''er¡¯s token of appreciation, along with a gift for the Water Jet Turtle."


    Yun Ling wore a flowing pink-and-white gown, her delicate features adorned with a soft smile. Her lips were crimson and vibrant, exuding youthful charm.


    She presented two items.


    The first was an exquisitely carved jade sculpture of a man in green robes, whose demeanor and appearance were so lifelike that it seemed to capture his very essence.


    Lan Chang''an nced at it briefly and noted that the sculpture''s image exuded an air of elegance and handsomeness surpassing his own self-image from his past life. It was as though the sculptor had added an extrayer of "beautification" to the work.


    The jade used was high-quality second-rank spirit jade.For Yun Ling, who had just entered Foundation Establishment, this was a considerable expense. The craftsmanship was meticulous, infused with sincere effort.


    The second item was arge gift box containing refined spiritual beast food tailored to the tastes of turtles. In the destends, such delicacies were exceedingly rare and valuable.


    The Profound Water Turtle, upon receiving the beast food, stretched out its head to nuzzle Yun Ling''s embroidered shoes and calves before happily devouring the treat with a big appetite.


    In over a hundred years, Lan Chang''an had rarely seen the Profound Water Turtle with such a good appetite and mood.


    "You went to such trouble."


    Lan Chang''an smiled faintly and invited the Yun siblings to take a seat.


    Fifteen years ago, when he first arrived at the River Source Oasis, the Yun siblings were only at the ninth and eighthyers of Qi-Refining, respectively.


    Now, both had reached the Foundation Establishment stage¡ªa level that, in smaller ns, would qualify them as revered ancestors.


    Yun Hao, possessing high grade spiritual roots, was a favored descendent that Master Lihuo put attention to in this side of the Fengyuan Kingdom. He had a promising future, with the potential to reach the Core Formation stage.


    Yun Ling''s aptitude was decent, and her sharp mind and gentle demeanor allowed her to make significant progress under Lan Chang''an¡¯s guidance, making her cultivation in the earlier stages much smoother.


    Coupled with Granny Yun''s special care, Yun Ling''s cultivation advancement was not much slower than that of someone with high-grade spiritual roots.


    Granny Yun emphasized tempering through trials and tribtions. From a young age, she exposed the siblings to the harsh realities of the lower ranks of cultivation, fostering their independence.


    "After entering Foundation Establishment, Granny had us train around the oasis, hunting desert beasts and procuring supplies from smaller oases. My brother even encountered desert bandits recently and was injured in a fight. Fortunately, he had a life-saving escape talisman from Granny..."


    Yun Ling''s eyes sparkled as she recounted these experiences. Though her voice carried anticipation for future challenges, it also held a trace of apprehension.


    Yun Hao, ncing at his radiant younger sister, secretly thought to himself:


    "At home, you never talk this much or look so lively."


    Lan Chang''an, speaking with a warm and calm tone, shared insights and experiences about navigating the cultivation world with the siblings.


    The Yun siblings listened attentively, their respect for Lan Chang''an evident.


    First, Lan Chang''an had gradually revealed his expertise as a third-rank alchemist over the years¡ªa highly prestigious status in the barren and impoverished Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Second, Granny Yun had hinted to them that Mister Xu might be a low-profile, reclusive Core Formation expert.


    Under Lan Chang''an¡¯s guidance, Yun Ling had achieved notable sess in her cultivation.


    Her elder brother, Yun Hao couldn''t help but feel tempted to seek advice as well. However, his reserved nature made him feel awkward in the presence of such an esteemed expert.


    Moreover, Yun Hao could tell that Mister Xu seemed to share a stronger affinity with his younger sister, offering her extra care and attention.


    Initially, both Yun Hao and Granny Yun had suspected that Mister Xu might have taken a liking to the pretty little girl. However, over the years, Mister Xu¡¯s actions proved otherwise. His conduct remained respectful and virtuous, never crossing any boundaries.


    On the other hand, Yun Ling appeared to harbor a budding affection for him.


    In his leisure moments, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind guiding the Yun siblings. After all, the two shared some connection with him.


    If, in the future, both siblings reached the Core Formation stage, looking back on these days would undoubtedly be a memorable story.


    ...


    Half a yearter, Lan Chang''an turned 229 years old.


    After so many years of cultivation, he estimated that it would take another seven to eight years to reach the peak of the early Core Formation stage.


    Reaching the early Core Formation peak within a single sixty-year cycle was considered average among True Dan cultivators.


    However, this pace was faster than his progress during the Qi-Refining and Foundation Establishment stages.


    Lan Chang''an spected that this should be the effect of his Immortal Golden Dan.


    After all, his wood spiritual root was of low grade, and his cultivation method, the Evergreen Technique, absorbed the essence of time¡¯s cyclical flow, which imposed limitations on his daily cultivation.


    Under normal circumstances, his progress should have been below average.


    The Immortal Golden Dan, however, enhanced the quality of his magical power and deepened his potential, thereby improving the effectiveness of his daily cultivation.


    One day, the Mountain-Water Manor weed a rare visitor from afar.


    While ying with the Profound Water Turtle, Yun Ling stepped out of the manor and suddenly heard the sound of something piercing through the air.


    A dazzling streak of light, carrying the aura of a Core Formation cultivator, descended from the sky andnded outside the manor.


    Yun Ling looked up, her bright eyes widening slightly in surprise.


    The visitor was a female cultivator in white robes, her delicate features as beautiful as a painting. Her refined elegance was like that of a lotus untouched by mud. Her cloud-like hair and ethereal presence radiated immortal grace.


    The beauty and bearing of the Core Formation female cultivator made Yun Ling feel both awed and inferior¡ªlike a vige flower encountering a more morous city beauty.


    "Little girl, is this the Mountain-Water Manor, the residence of Mister Xu?"


    The woman¡¯s voice was clear and melodious, like the tinkling of jade.


    Yun Ling quickly bowed in respect, her tone both polite and surprised.


    "Senior, are you here to see Mister Xu? This is indeed his cultivation manor."


    The female cultivator, Jiang Ruotong, carried herself with poise, her gaze briefly sweeping over the youthful and innocent Yun Ling. Even amidst the stunning beauties of the Xuan Yin Pavilion, such a girl could be considered a rare and unpolished gem.


    "Good, I¡¯m in the right ce," Jiang Ruotong replied with a faint smile. With a light flick of her slender fingers, an ethereal melody rippled through the air, its sound pure and tranquil, reaching into the manor.


    The beautiful melody made Yun Ling freeze in her tracks, and a sh of realization struck her. She blurted out:


    "Senior, could you be a Core Formation expert from the Xuan Yin Pavilion?"


    "Indeed," Jiang Ruotong nodded, then asked curiously, "Youngdy, what is your rtionship with Mister Xu?"


    "Junior Yun Ling¡­ is a maid in Mister Xu¡¯s cultivation manor," Yun Ling hesitated before replying, unsure how to define her connection with him.


    After all, there was no familial bond, and their age difference spanned over a century. Though Mister Xu had guided her before, he had never epted her as a disciple. Yun Ling often helped with chores and errands, and the words "maid" slipped out almost unconsciously.


    "Immortal Jiang, your esteemed visit brings great honor to this humble estate," a warm voice rang out as Lan Chang''an emerged from the manor, having heard the melody.


    After so many years, the two met again and exchanged polite greetings.


    Jiang Ruotong smiled gracefully. "Mister Xu, you¡¯re too modest. As a third-rank alchemist, your reputation precedes you. My pavilion master, upon hearing of your past guidance, feels indebted to you and wishes to express her gratitude."


    "Had she not been preupied recently, she intended to pay you a visit in person here at the River Source Oasis."


    The current leader of the Xuan Yin Pavilion was none other than Ni Yue Immortal, once the number one beauty in the cultivation world of Liang Kingdom.


    Years ago, when Lan Chang''an was in the early Foundation Establishment stage, he had only dared to steal a fleeting nce at her in the Green Underworld Mysterious Realm, unable to meet her gaze directly.


    At that time, Lan Chang''ancked even the qualifications to converse with Ni Yue.


    Now, however, Ni Yue had be the leader of the declining Xuan Yin Pavilion, holding an even higher status.


    Jiang Ruotong¡¯s mention of Ni Yue¡¯s desire to visit was likely just a polite gesture. However, it indicated that Lan Chang''an¡¯s reputation as a third-rank alchemist had reached even Ni Yue¡¯s ears, earning her attention and a desire to recruit him.


    Meanwhile, Yun Ling watched as Mister Xu and Immortal Jiang entered the manor, chatting andughing. For some inexplicable reason, she felt a pang of difort and mncholy.


    Perhaps only someone like Immortal Jiang¡ªa graceful and ethereal Core Formation cultivator¡ªcould truly be a fitting match for the cultured and refined Mister Xu.


    ¡­


    Yun Ling bit her lip and followed them into the manor, taking on the role of a "temporary maid," serving tea and water.


    Lan Chang''an nced at her, a faint smile ying on his lips, but he chose not to expose her charade.


    With Jiang Ruotong''s experience and sharp perception, she quickly saw through Yun Ling¡¯s clumsy attempts at ying a maid. Clearly, there was more to her rtionship with Lan Chang''an than met the eye.


    "Mister Xu, it has been over ten years since we parted ways, and I received no news from you. It wasn¡¯t easy for us to track you down."


    At this point, Jiang Ruotong¡¯s tone carried a hint of reproach, tinged with subtle mncholy.


    Years ago, in the Scorpion Deste City, Lan Chang''an had stayed to cultivate for two years, while Jiang Ruotong and herpanions had not lingered.


    Before departing, Jiang Ruotong had left her contact information with him, yet he had never taken the initiative to reach out.


    The Xuan Yin Pavilion was stationed in another immortal city under the "Outer Sect Alliance," far away from the oasis.


    Fortunately, the River Source Oasis, where Lan Chang''an now resided, was a rtivelyrge oasis in the desert, and the Xuan Yin Pavilion had recently received news of this "Mister Xu¡¯s" whereabouts.


    After confirming his identity, Jiang Ruotong, as a Core Formation elder, personally made the trip to visit.


    "My apologies for troubling you, Immortal Jiang. I am but a down-and-out Fake Dan cultivator and would not dare presume to associate with a prestigious sect like Xuan Yin Pavilion. I simply sought a quiet oasis to settle in."


    Lan Chang''an offered a polite apology.


    Jiang Ruotong caught the implication behind his words.


    This mysterious Mister Xu clearly valued a quiet life, uninterested in the entanglements of the outside world.


    The Xuan Yin Pavilion, known for its many beautiful female cultivators skilled in music, inevitably attracted trouble wherever they went.


    If Lan Chang''an were to actively associate with them, it might bring unnecessary hassles to his life.


    "This time, I am here on behalf of the Pavilion Master to request your assistance in refining two precious pills. Surely, Mister Xu will not refuse?"


    Jiang Ruotong¡¯s smile was charming and confident as she revealed the purpose of her visit.


    "No problem. What pills does Immortal Jiang wish to refine?"


    Lan Chang''an agreed without hesitation.


    Jiang Ruotong nced at Yun Ling and then started transmitting her voice to Lan Chang''an.


    Yun Ling, understanding the subtle cue, sensibly excused herself.


    "Moonlight Pill? Crystal Condensation Pill?"


    "Such important pills¡ªImmortal Jiang feels assured entrusting them to me?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression showed a trace of surprise as he asked.


    The Crystal Condensation Pill was self-exnatory¡ªa critical resource for advancing to the Core Formation stage. Even Nascent Soul-level forces valued it greatly and sought to stockpile as much as possible.


    The Moonlight Pill, on the other hand, was a rare and esoteric second-rank superior-grade pill that enhanced one¡¯s bone structure and appearance. It was especially effective for female cultivators, as it could significantly increase their beauty.


    Due to its niche nature and the high difficulty of refining it, even the second-rank had low sess rates.


    "I have trust in Mister Xu''s character."


    Jiang Ruotong smiled brightly, her confidence evident in her tone.


    Her judgment was based on multiple factors. For one, despite leaving her contact information all those years ago, Lan Chang''an had never attempted to contact her or the Xuan Yin Pavilion. This indicated he harbored no ulterior motives or hostility toward them.


    Additionally, Lan Chang''an had maintained a low profile in the River Source Oasis, earning a reputation for being discreet and trustworthy.


    "The requirements for refining these pills are not low, but I will do my best," Lan Chang''an replied, agreeing to her request and discussing thepensation for his efforts.


    Coincidentally, Lan Chang''an had nearly gathered all the materials for his own batch of Crystal Condensation Pills. Refining these pills for Jiang Ruotong would provide a good opportunity to warm up his skills.


    "While the pills are being refined, may I stay at the Mountain-Water Manor?"


    Jiang Ruotong proposed with a slight smile.


    "As it should be," Lan Chang''an replied after a moment of thought.


    Refining such valuable pills required the presence of the client, the client would supervise and had the right to know.


    Even if it was the Alchemist Hua with poor character who had once refined Foundation Establishment Pills for him, Lan Chang''an had personally observed the process.


    If Jiang Ruotong were to stay at a market inn andmute to the manor, it would only draw unnecessary attention.


    ...


    As the evening fell, Yun Ling left the Mountain-Water Manor, her mood heavy with dejection.


    "Immortal Jiang is so close with Mister Xu, and now she¡¯s even staying overnight at the manor..."


    She bit her cherry lips, recalling the scene of the two conversing as a pair, their appearancesplementing each other so perfectly. It left a sour feeling in her heart.


    In all the years she had known Mister Xu, he had never invited her to stay the night.


    Of course, she lived nearby in the oasis, and there had never been a need for such an arrangement.


    As a Foundation Establishment female cultivator, Yun Ling wasn¡¯t particrly young anymore, but herck of experience with romantic rtionships left her prone to emotional overthinking.


    That night, Lan Chang''an arranged a guest room for Jiang Ruotong.


    The night passed uneventfully.


    Jiang Ruotong, as the youngest Core Formation elder of Xuan Yin Pavilion, was a traditional and refined woman. She was cultured, gentle, and well-mannered, the type who would never stir up trouble.


    In certain aspects, her demeanor reminded Lan Chang''an of the young miss of the Mu Family from years past.


    The next morning, Lan Chang''an opened the furnace for alchemy.


    In the alchemy room, Jiang Ruotong maintained a respectable distance, sitting elegantly to observe the refining process.


    Lan Chang''an set up ayer of misty restrictions around his hands, obscuring his alchemy techniques like a mosaic.


    The overall process of refining, as well as the final quantity of pills, was still visible to Jiang Ruotong.


    Half a month passed in the blink of an eye.


    During this period of refining, Lan Chang''an and Jiang Ruotong spent much time in close proximity. However, to avoid distractions, Jiang Ruotong remained quiet, and they exchanged almost no words. At most, their gazes asionally met.


    In the end, Lan Chang''an sessfully refined both types of precious pills, achieving the standard quality expected of a third-rank low-grade alchemist.


    In the cultivation world, alchemists who eptedmissions were not paid if they failed, unless other terms had been negotiated.


    When sessful, the payment was typically 10-20% of the pill¡¯s total value, depending on the difficulty of the refinement and the reputation of the alchemist.


    "Mister Xu, this is your payment."


    Jiang Ruotong, her spirits high, handed a heavy brocade pouch filled with spirit stones to Lan Chang''an.


    As they stepped out of the alchemy room, Jiang Ruotong prepared to take her leave and report back to her sect.


    Before departing, Jiang Ruotong¡¯s clear, bright eyes lingered on the refined and schrly middle-aged man in green robes standing close to her.


    "The Pavilion Master has asked me to sincerely invite Mister Xu to join the Xuan Yin Pavilion. Should you agree, the Pavilion Master herself will personallye to the oasis to wee you with the highest respect," Jiang Ruotong said earnestly.


    "At the moment, I have no ns to join any sect. If I ever do consider it, the Xuan Yin Pavilion will certainly be my first choice," Lan Chang''an replied, politely declining but leaving the possibility open.


    He understood that if he reached the mid-Core Formation stage in the future, the small spirit vein of the Mountain-Water Manor would no longer be sufficient to sustain both his and the Profound Water Turtle¡¯s cultivation.


    At that point, he would either have to join a cultivation sect or find a way to enhance the quality of the spirit vein at his manor.


    The Xuan Yin Pavilion could be a future option¡ªat least they had interacted and developed a mutual understanding.


    Once Lan Chang''an advanced to the mid-Core Formation stage, he would be unmatched by anyone below the Nascent Soul realm in the Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Aside from the reclusive Heavenly Master in the Ice and Snow Sacred Mountain, no one else would pose a threat to his life.


    At that time, Lan Chang''an would have no need to worry about potential minor troubles arising from joining the Xuan Yin Pavilion.


    "The Pavilion Master has also promised that, if Mister Xu wishes, she will grant the hand of one of our Pavilion¡¯s female Core Formation cultivators to be your Daopanion."


    Jiang Ruotong¡¯s red lips trembled slightly as she spoke, her clear eyes momentarily flickering with hesitation.


    Her fair and delicate face grew slightly flushed, a natural blush spreading across her cheeks.


    Lan Chang''an, hearing her subtle implication, couldn¡¯t help but feel surprised. A thoughtful expression crossed his face.


    To recruit him, the Xuan Yin Pavilion was clearly pulling out all the stops.


    For most Fake Dan male cultivators, marrying a Core Formation female cultivator skilled in music, which helped with dual cultivation and mental rity was a dreame true.


    Seeing Lan Chang''an remain silent, Jiang Ruotong seemed slightly embarrassed. She bowed politely, then gracefully departed.


    She had made this proposal purely for the sake of Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s revival.


    Facing a man who had once shown her kindness and whom she admired, Jiang Ruotong didn¡¯t mind sacrificing herself.


    However, if her feelings were unreciprocated, she would not force the matter. She had her own pride and dignity to uphold.


    ...


    A yearter.


    With Lan Chang''an¡¯s covert support, the Star Moon Merchant Association flourished. Their trade routes prospered, and wealth flowed in abundantly. As long as they could nurture a True Dan cultivator, they had the potential to be a major power in the oasis.


    Through the Star Moon Merchant Association, Lan Chang''an managed to gather all the necessary materials for refining the Crystal Condensation Pill and Life Extension Pill.


    The Crystal Condensation Pill was ready to be refined at any time.


    As for the Life Extension Pill, the third-rank Longevity Fruit he obtained still needed another 10-20 years to mature before it would be suitable for refinement.


    Lan Chang''an was in a state of preparation, waiting for the right moment to fuse with his second life and refine the Crystal Condensation Pill, hoping to maximize the number of pills produced.


    Late at night, Elder Duan quietly returned to the Mountain-Water Manor.


    Elder Duan, who controlled the manor¡¯s outer array formations, could enter at any time to check on the estate.


    This time, however, he wasn¡¯t alone. With him was a ck-d young man at the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage.


    "Mister Xu, for the next month or two, the spiritual vein of the manor will be rented to someone for their Core Formation breakthrough."


    Elder Duanmunicated this to Lan Chang''an via voice transmission, without introducing the young man.


    This arrangement had been agreed upon when they originally signed the spiritual contract.


    "Very well. During this period, I¡¯ll stay at the market inn," Lan Chang''an replied withoutint. The spiritual energy at the market was subpar, but with spirit stones and pills, the short-term impact would be negligible.


    "No need. Mister Xu may remain in the manor. As long as you refrain frompeting for spiritual energy during the breakthrough, it will not be an issue," Elder Duan assured him.


    Elder Duan, now somewhat rotund and dressed in loose robes, had a shrewd glint in his eyes.


    Lan Chang''an had no objections and chose to stay at the manor. He had no particr interest in the ck-d young man¡¯s Core Formation attempt, guessing he was likely a descendant of one of Master Lihuo¡¯s branches.


    For someone with the vision of a Nascent Soul cultivator, a Core Formation breakthrough was a routine matter, unworthy of special attention¡ªunless the breakthrough resulted in a Golden Dan, which might warrant notice from a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Half a monthter.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The skies above the Mountain-Water Manor disyed the telltale signs of a Core Formation phenomenon.


    Lan Chang''an, well-versed in divination, observed the spirit energy and shook his head slightly.


    Just as the phenomenon reached its peak, Lan Chang''an suddenly sensed a powerful and concealed spiritual sense infiltrating the array formations, surveying the manor.


    "So, this is where he is."


    From the deste desert outside the River Source Oasis, a middle-aged man in iron armor flew toward the oasis. His thick brows and square face radiated a murderous and oppressive aura.


    Underground, Earth Burrowing Rat froze in terror, not daring to move, fearful of being detected by the iron-armored man.


    As he neared the oasis, the man soared into the skies, hovering above thend and cautiously extending his spiritual sense to inspect the Mountain-Water Manor.


    "It¡¯s him? Fang Zhen! As a me Departing Pce elder, you¡¯ve tracked him all the way here. What are you plotting?"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s spirit fused with the spiritual sense of his fourth life, and probed the intruder.


    The fusion state of the Nine Seal Stele allowed for passive spiritual sense detection, though it could not be used inbat unless one fully activated a certain life, which would then slowly deplete the illumination state of that life¡¯s soul.


    "me Departing Pce has been in decline for years, yet this man has achieved the great cultivation state ofte Core Formation stage, far surpassing my previous life. In this oasis region, he can act with impunity."


    Lan Chang''an frowned slightly. If this man harbored malicious intent, the oasis would know no peace, and he himself would be unable to cultivate safely in the Mountain-Water Manor until the mid-Core Formation stage.


    A cold glint shed in his eyes as he made a firm decision:


    "This River Source Oasis will not allow the existence of such a powerful cultivator to disrupt this Immortal''s seclusion."

 Chapter 300: The Gutian Auction

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    Lan Chang''an stayed behind the scenes, supporting the Star Moon Merchant Association, influencing the power structure of the oasis, and cultivating quietly in peace.


    How can one tolerate others snoring by one¡¯s bedside?


    If Fang Zhen were to target the descendants of Master Lihuo residing in this oasis, it would inevitably disrupt Lan Chang''an''s cultivation ns.


    The options were clear: either flee or eliminate the threat.


    Inside the manor, the ck-d youth was at a critical juncture in breaking through to the Core Formation realm. Elder Duan was serving as a protector, remaining unaware of any potential threats lurking nearby.


    Above the clouds, in the Nine Fiery Heavens...


    A middle-aged man d in iron armor, with thick eyebrows and a square face, stood unmoving. His expression shifted between hesitation and resolution. The astral winds around him dared not approach, and the air seemed inexplicably heavy.


    "The timing is not yet right.""Thisrge oasis houses formidable Core Formation experts. The descendants of Master Lihuo in this area might not only include the True Dan Duan Zhengyu."


    After some deliberation, Fang Zhen quietly left River Source Oasis without alerting anyone.


    His true objective was not to exterminate Master Lihuo''s descendants, but rather to seize the opportunities and resources that could aid him in advancing further in cultivation.


    Years ago, during the copse of the me Departing Pce, betrayal, the ambush of Master Lihuo''s Daopanion, offspring, and disciples, as well as the looting of treasures, had brought him significant benefits.


    Without those resources, Fang Zhen would not have been able to elevate his cultivation to the current level over the past sixty years.


    Flying several dozen li away from River Source Oasis, Fang Zhen suddenly sensed something. He nced back at theyers of earth beneath the yellow sands, faintly detecting a trace of unusual demonic energy that quickly dissipated.


    "Could this be a contingency left behind by the Supreme Elder?"


    Frowning, a trace of wariness flickered in Fang Zhen''s eyes as he hastened his departure from the oasis.


    Previously, Fang Zhen had discovered another dwelling ce of Master Lihuo''s descendants. However, due to simr concerns, he had refrained from taking any rash actions.


    Back at the Mountain-Water Manor...


    "He''s gone?"


    Lan Chang''an let out a small sigh of relief.


    If it wasn''t absolutely necessary, he had no intention of fighting ate-stage Core Formation cultivator.


    Ate-stage Core Formation expert was far superior to an average Core Formation cultivator. Even mid-stage Core Formation cultivators, without exceptional magical treasures and divine abilities, would struggle to be a match.


    Not to mention that ordinary early- or mid-stage True Dan cultivators werepletely outssed.


    A peak Core Formation cultivator also fell into thete-stage category, having reached the pinnacle of that minor realm with no room for further advancement.


    Against such a formidable opponent, even with the assistance of formations, puppets, and his Earth Burrowing Rat, Lan Chang''an could defeat him but not easily. There was even a chance the enemy could escape.


    When Fang Zhen departed, Lan Chang''an had deliberately allowed the Earth Burrowing Rat to release a faint trace of powerful demonic energy, causing Fang Zhen to hesitate and not act recklessly.


    In a few years, once Lan Chang''an advanced to the mid-Core Formation stage, dealing with opponents like Fang Zhen would be far less troublesome¡ªas long as they weren''tte-stage Core Formation top-tier geniuses like the Peacock Saintess.


    ...


    Half a dayter.


    The Core Formation phenomenon over the Mountain-Water Manor dissipated.


    The ck-d youth brought by Elder Duan had merely formed a Fake Dan instead of a True Dan.


    Lan Chang''an was indifferent to this oue, focusing instead on analyzing Fang Zhen''s intentions. He had begun to form a rough understanding in his mind.


    The descendants of Master Lihuo who remained in Fengyuan Kingdom had been left some treasured resources.


    However, the core resources truly capable of nurturing a Nascent Soul cultivator were mostly located within the me Departing Pce on the side of the Seven Kingdoms Alliance territory.


    Of the treasures left behind on this side, there were only one or two that would help Nascent Soul breakthroughs, and they were not very attractive to Lan Chang''an.


    One was Master Lihuo''s detailed insights into breaking through to the Nascent Soul realm, which held no meaning for Lan Chang''an.


    The second was an ordinary spiritual object, which was far less beneficial than an Infant Transformation Pill or the Taiyin Jade Essence.


    By the time Lan Chang''an reached thete-stage Core Formation realm, with sufficient wealth, such an ordinary spiritual object could easily be purchased in the Wangyue Immortal City.


    Ten dayster.


    Elder Duan, along with the ck-d youth who was stabilizing his cultivation, bid farewell to Lan Chang''an.


    As for the potential threat of Fang Zhen tracking them, Lan Chang''an chose not to warn them directly, not wishing to be too entangled in their affairs.


    As the highest-ranking descendant of Master Lihuo in the Fengyuan Kingdom, Elder Duan had the life-saving cards left behind by his Nascent Soul ancestor. Although he couldn¡¯t match ate-stage Core Formation cultivator, he had the means to protect himself.


    Based on Lan Chang''an''s calctions, Elder Duan was likely already aware of Fang Zhen''s presence and had taken precautions.


    During this Core Formation attempt, Elder Duan had not asked Lan Chang''an to avoid the area. Perhaps he intended to pull Lan Chang''an into his faction, using him to share future risks and fight against powerful enemies together.


    "This grandson has a cunning heart."


    Lan Chang''an pondered his next steps, nning to leave after advancing to the mid-stage Core Formation realm.


    He would relocate to a ce with a better spiritual vein and cultivation resources.


    As a third-rank Alchemist, his status was highly sought after and revered all over Fengyuan Kingdom.


    ...


    Two yearster, the River Source Oasis remained tranquil.


    The Star Moon Merchant Association had steadily expanded, not only clearing all of Lan Chang''an''s debts but even managing to hire a True Dan cultivator as a patron.


    On this day, Lan Chang''an, now 232 years old, was in peak condition as he finally began refining the Crystal Condensation Pill.


    Inside the alchemy room, Lan Chang''an sat cross-legged, his eyes closed as hemunicated with the Nine Seal Stele. He summoned the soul shadow of his peak Core Formation second life.


    In an instant, the robes on his body began to stir despite the absence of wind. His soul power surged dramatically, momentarily exceeding the limits of the Core Formation realm.


    Seven dayster.


    The alchemy room was bathed in radiant light. The pill furnace opened, and three pills resembling ss-like snow jade shot out, faintly exuding spiritual pressure.


    ¡°Three pills formed! Two genuine and one inferior with only minor ws,¡± Lan Chang''an assessed, his face lighting up with satisfaction.


    It was worth noting that back in the day, even "Morning Pill Immortal", a mid-grade third-rank alchemist from the Jin Yun Valley, could only produce two Crystal Condensation Pills at most when giving his all.


    However, it wasn¡¯t that Lan Chang''an¡¯s alchemy skills surpassed Morning Pill¡¯s.


    He simply wasn¡¯t in a rush. He waited until his condition was at its peak and deliberately summoned the soul of his second life to significantly enhance his spiritual sense control.


    With a bit of luck, he managed to produce three pills.


    Even the inferior one, while slightly wed, was not far behind in qualitypared to the genuine ones.


    "What a pity. The third-rank Longevity Fruit hasn¡¯t ripened yet," Lan Chang''an thought with slight regret.


    His current state of peak performance could not be immediately channeled into refining the third-rank Life Extension Pill, which were the ones truly valuable to him.


    The Crystal Condensation Pills, by contrast, were mainly meant to be traded for other rare resources.


    In fact, Lan Chang''an''s Evergreen Technique allowed him to nurture and elerate the growth of rare spiritual herbs and heavenly treasures.


    Over the years, he had tested this ability.


    For low-tier spiritual herbs, even without sacrificing his lifespan, nurturing them with the Evergreen Technique significantly sped up their growth.


    However, for third-rank rare herbs, he had to consume his lifespan to achieve any noticeable eleration.


    The spiritual nt that bore the third-rank Longevity Fruit had been nted in soil enriched with a diluted amount of Five Element Earth to ensure its survival.


    Lan Chang''an had once sacrificed a year''s worth of lifespan to double the growth rate of the nt in a single year.


    For second-rank herbs, he could elerate their growth by tenfold.


    But after calcting the costs, Lan Chang''an found that this lifespan-burning method was not worth it for most cases.


    The higher the herb¡¯s grade, the greater the cost to elerate its growth.


    For low-tier herbs, while the eleration effect was impressive, they were of little use to him. Spending lifespan on them was simply a waste.


    Only when it came to spiritual objects of critical importance¡ªthose tied to his chances of forming a Nascent Soul¡ªwould Lan Chang''an consider burning his lifespan for cultivation.


    After all, there were many things that required his lifespan.


    Priority was given to divination improvement and nurturing the Xuanmu Vine Gourd.


    The Xuanmu Vine Gourd, after his investment of over a hundred years of lifespan, had begun to slowly regain its vitality.


    For now, Lan Chang''an and the Profound Water Turtle only needed to continue sustaining it with nourishment.


    He nned to reinvest lifespan into the Xuanmu Vine Gourd after reaching the mid-stage Core Formation. By then, his mana quality would have improved, and the effect of the Evergreen secret spell would be better.


    ...


    After sessfully refining the Crystal Condensation Pills, the soul shadow of his second life could still remain active for another ten months.


    Lan Chang''an nned to visit Gutian Immortal City to purchase and trade for necessary resources.


    In addition to the Crystal Condensation Pills, he still had a stash of materials brought from the Liang Kingdom, including a batch of beast cubs and beast eggs.


    Gutian Immortal City was a high-tier immortal city under the Outer Sect Alliance, primarily controlled by the Mysterious Mechanism Tower.


    The surrounding oases and spiritualnds, big and small, all relied on Gutian Immortal City as their trade center.


    Six monthster, the city would host a once-in-a-decaderge-scale auction, one of thergest in the region.


    The Mysterious Mechanism Tower was one of the event¡¯s organizers.


    This organization was rumored to have been founded by defectors from the Thousand Mechanisms Sect in the Fengyuan Kingdom. Its main business revolved around puppets.


    Lan Chang''an, intending to upgrade his puppet clone and craft more mid-grade third-rank puppets, found himself intrigued by the auction.


    Nearly a month before the auction, the Yun siblings visited again.


    ¡°Mister Xu, Granny Yun is taking us to broaden our horizons by attending next month¡¯s grand auction in Gutian Immortal City. Would you like to join us?¡± Yun Ling asked expectantly.


    ¡°Hmm, that works. I happen to need to sell some pills and purchase some resources,¡± Lan Chang''an replied after some thought, not refusing the invitation.


    With his puppet clone, Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t need to personally handle all transactions in the immortal city.


    He could use his public persona to trade ordinary resources openly, while his puppet clone operated in the shadows to sell and acquire items discreetly¡ªeven venturing into the ck market without fear of being double-crossed.


    Half a monthter.


    At River Source Market, Lan Chang''an met up with Granny Yun and the Yun siblings. Together, they set off for Gutian Immortal City.


    Granny Yun only revealed the cultivation of a Fake Dan expert.


    Lan Chang''an summoned a flying carpet magical treasure he had crafted as practice. The carpet spanned five or six zhang, providing amplefort as it carried the four of them toward Gutian Immortal City.


    On the flying carpet, the white-haired, wrinkled Granny Yun sat across from Lan Chang''an, remainingrgely silent.


    She could sense that Lan Chang''an wasn¡¯t particrly interested in conversing with her.


    Her cloudy eyes shifted to Yun Ling, who was chatting happily with Lan Chang''an.


    The refined and handsome Mister Xu disyed extraordinary patience toward Ling¡¯er, smiling warmly and devoid of the usual airs carried by a Core Formation Immortal.


    Granny Yun found Lan Chang''an¡¯s gentle demeanor strangely appealing.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Her gaze lingered on his pleasing andforting features, evoking a faint desire to grow closer to him. Even a trace of envy toward Ling¡¯er surfaced in her heart.


    Faced with this "unequal" treatment, Granny Yun, despite her age and experience, felt a rare difort. She even toyed with the idea of revealing her true youthful appearance.


    Though Yun Ling was young and beautiful, Granny Yun knew her own charm as a mature woman far surpassed that of a naive young girl.


    However, Lan Chang''an was not intentionally distancing himself from Granny Yun.


    As thest legitimate Daopanion of Master Lihuo, Granny Yun¡¯s identity tied her to too many karmic entanglements. Lan Chang''an preferred to avoid deep involvement with her.


    Additionally, Granny Yun''s insight and knowledge far exceeded that of an ordinary Core Formation cultivator, making Lan Chang''an cautious about revealing any ws.


    ...


    Gutian Immortal City was only a few thousand li away.


    Lan Chang''an, controlling his flying carpet magical treasure, carried the group at a moderate speed, arriving at their destination in less than an hour without even going full speed.


    As they approached, a vast expanse of cultivated spirit fields came into view. At the center of thend stood arge, peculiar city atop a massive sand dune. The city was a mix of steel and machinery, exuding an air of ancient ruggedness and ingenuity.


    ¡°A city transformed by puppet techniques?¡±


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes brightened with intrigue.


    From a distance, he could already see puppet turrets extending from the battlements, as well as giant puppet sentinels patrolling the city¡¯s perimeter.


    The towering puppet giants were four to five zhang tall, with an estimated rank of quasi-third rank. Their massive size and thick armor made them formidable in directbat¡ªenough that even Fake Dan cultivators would tread carefully when facing them.


    These puppet giants served as both a disy of Mysterious Mechanism Tower¡¯s military strength and an advertisement for their puppet products.


    Puppets, while powerful, were expensive to create and required a skilled puppeteer to unlock their full potential. They also divided the spiritual sense duringbat, making them a niche choice in the cultivation world.


    The Mysterious Mechanism Tower, a branch of the Thousand Mechanisms Sect, had brought a flourishing puppet culture to Fengyuan Kingdom.


    In the Outer Sect Alliance region, puppeteers were rtively moremon, with puppet-rted materials and inheritances easier to acquire than in the Liang Kingdom.


    As therge auction approached, Gutian Immortal City saw a surge in visitors.


    Floating in the air outside the city were numerous pavilions, carriages, spirit beast mounts, and magical treasures, exuding streams of light as they carried cultivators from various regions.


    One particr flying pce, designed in a ssical style, emitted melodious music that captivated nearby onlookers.


    ¡°I heard that the owner of the Xuan Yin Pavilion, Fairy Ni Yue, has personally arrived to attend this grand auction. I wonder which auction item has caught her eye?¡±


    ¡°Ah, it¡¯s a pity that my cultivation is too shallow. I have no chance to enter her pce and witness Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s celestial beauty. Only well-known Core Formation experts might receive such an invitation.¡±


    ¡°Well, we lowly ones can only spend spirit stones to visit the city¡¯s Xuan Yin Hall, the branch of the Xuan Yin Pavilion. There, we can admire the graceful female cultivators of the pavilion, listen to their ethereal music, and cleanse our minds.¡±


    Cultivators from all over discussed and gazed longingly at the dreamlike flying pce.


    Lan Chang''an, with his powerful spiritual sense, probed the situation briefly but wasn¡¯t surprised by the Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s presence.


    The pavilion had moved to the Outer Sect Alliance territory many years ago, with branches like Xuan Yin Hall established in most nearby immortal cities.


    Most of their new disciples were recruited locally.


    Controlling the flying carpet, Lan Chang''an guided it into Gutian Immortal City.


    Granny Yun had a kind face and opened her mouth to test the waters. ¡°I¡¯ve heard that Mister Xu has some ties with a True Dan elder from the Xuan Yin Pavilion. Why not take the opportunity to visit and reconnect? We wouldn¡¯t mind if you left us for a while.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, Madam Yun is mistaken,¡± Lan Chang''an replied calmly. ¡°My connection with the pavilion is purely transactional¡ªmostly rted to alchemy transactions.¡±


    Granny Yun smiled knowingly but did notment further.


    She had heard from Yun Ling that this Mister Xu had once flirted with Fairy Jiang from the Xuan Yin Pavilion and even hosted her overnight at his manor.


    In truth, before the downfall of the me Departing Pce, Granny Yun had been acquainted with the previous master of the Xuan Yin Pavilion and even with Fairy Ni Yue.


    She was well aware of the pavilion¡¯s reputation: its female cultivators were renowned for their beauty, elegance, and talent in music, making them irresistibly attractive to male cultivators.


    ...


    On that day, Lan Chang''an and the Yun trio checked into a local inn.


    Late at night, under the cover of darkness, Lan Chang''an released his mid-grade third-rank puppet clone.


    In order to differentiate it from the assassin avatar code-named ¡°ck Lord,¡± this puppet clone had been given apletely new appearance.


    It now resembled a wandering Daoist merchant, wearing a bamboo hat. Its outfit bore a 60¨C70% resemnce to that of "Daoist Tianshu," a mysterious figure Lan Chang''an had encountered in his earlier years.


    Of course, this was only one of the puppet clone¡¯s many disguises. It could take on various forms to blend into the city.


    With ten days remaining until the auction, Lan Chang''an and his puppet clone split their efforts into two fronts: the public side and the hidden side.


    While Lan Chang''an publicly purchased and sold ordinary resources to maintain his cover, the puppet clone worked in the shadows, engaging in transactions and even venturing into the ck market.


    Several days passed.


    The puppet clone visited several major shops within the city and even attended underground ck markets, liquidating arge amount of spirit stones.


    The spirit beast cubs and eggs obtained from Huang Lang Immortal were particrly popr in the city. The prices they fetched exceeded Lan Chang''an¡¯s expectations, as many of these species were unavable in the desert regions of Fengyuan Kingdom and could only be brought in by outsiders.


    So long as Lan Chang''an avoided overselling, he had no concerns about exposing himself.


    The Outer Sect Alliance region was a melting pot of cultivators from various factions and regions, including loose cultivators and those from other kingdoms. It was not umon to see puppeteers, poison masters, body cultivators, and beast tamers mingling, making it difficult to trace origins.


    In addition to the spirit beasts, the puppet clone also sold various rare materials brought from the Liang Kingdom. These fetched high prices due to their scarcity in the region.


    Meanwhile, Lan Chang''an himself sold low-grade third-rank pills that were inconspicuous and aligned with his alchemist identity.


    In just a few days, Lan Chang''an and his puppet clone amassed over 100,000 spirit stones.


    The resources sold, including the spirit beasts, ounted for less than half of his inventory, leaving much to be used in the future.


    The bulk of the spirit stones was spent on materials for third-rank puppets and more advanced puppet technique inheritances.


    With limited connections in Gutian Immortal City, Lan Chang''an often had to pay high prices or rely on the puppet clone to make purchases in the ck market.


    By two days before the auction, he had gathered nearly all the materials needed for crafting another mid-grade third-rank puppet, using some items from his own stockpile.


    The remaining rare materials could potentially be obtained at the auction.


    Additionally, Lan Chang''an acquired a puppet inheritance from the Thousand Mechanisms Sect, albeit only of quasi-third rank level.


    "The Thousand Mechanisms Sect¡¯s puppet inheritances truly stand apart," Lan Chang''an mused as he delved into the techniques.


    Even studying this lower-rank inheritance provided him with considerable insight and inspiration.


    Compared to the puppet techniques he had obtained from the Righteous Dao Alliance, the depth of the Thousand Mechanisms Sect¡¯s inheritances was far superior.


    This only deepened his desire to obtain higher-level puppet inheritances to further refine his puppet clone.


    The puppet clone, cautious in its dealings, kept interactions brief and used strong spiritual sense barriers to prevent others from probing its true nature.


    ...


    The night before the auction.


    Suddenly, shocking news spread throughout Gutian Immortal City.


    ¡°Mister Xu, have you heard? They¡¯ve added a new item to the grand auction¡¯s finale!¡±


    The Yun siblings hurriedly came to inform Lan Chang''an of thetest development.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Lan Chang''an asked with a calm expression.


    ¡°It¡¯s a Crystal Condensation Pill!¡±


    ¡°A genuine Crystal Condensation Pill is something rarely seen in auctions across Gutian Immortal City. It¡¯s a treasure that only appears once in a century!¡±


    The Yun siblings were visibly excited, their expressions full of awe.


    ording to the initial auction announcements, the finale items were supposed to include a third-rank Puppet, a third-rank Water Spirit Pearl, and a mid-grade magical treasure. The addition of a Crystal Condensation Pill waspletely unexpected.


    Seeing their reactions, Lan Chang''an gained an even deeper appreciation for how scarce high-ranked pills were in this barren Fengyuan Kingdom.


    Not to mention the Crystal Condensation Pill that increased the probability of forming a Core. It was practically unheard of in local auctions. Every time one appeared, it would spark a frenzy ofpetition and potentially even deadly conflict.


    That''s right!


    That Crystal Condensation Pill that was featured in the finale actually came from Lan Chang''an.


    Through his puppet clone, disguised as a mysterious individual, Lan Chang''an had consigned the pill to the auction.


    His goal wasn¡¯t just to liquidate assets but to prioritize trading for third-rank Life Extension Pills or Thousand Mechanisms Sect puppet inheritances.


    As for whether the auction of this pill would trigger chaos or bloodshed in this barren desert had little to do with Old Lan.

 Chapter 301: Fairy Ni Yue

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    The next day at noon.


    The once-a-decade auction in Gutian Immortal City began as scheduled. The grand hall located in the center of the city had already opened its doors to the public.


    Unlike other auctions, many of the receptionists at the entrance were lifelike humanoid puppets.


    The puppet that received Lan Chang''an''s party of five was a female cultivator model with stunning features, an alluring figure, and dressed in a revealing short skirt that showed off her long, fair legs.


    Some of the lower- and mid-level cultivators couldn¡¯t tell the difference and were captivated by the puppet¡¯s sensual beauty.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s heart burned slightly. Even from what was on disy here, the techniques used in creating these lifelike puppets were worth studying.


    "If only I could capture one of these in the wild," he thought. "I¡¯d have Earth Burrowing Rat catch one for me to dissect and study thoroughly."


    Theyout of the auction house was not too different from those outside the wilderness. However, the style was much more rugged, incorporating a lot of gold and mechanical materials.Lan Chang''an and Granny Yun, concealing their cultivation levels as Fake Dan Formation cultivators, had no connections in the city and were ced in standard seats near the front. They had no chance of enjoying the high-floating VIP pavilions above.


    Lan Chang''an didn¡¯t mind. He was merely here to observe the event and had no intention of standing out.


    Whoosh!


    A dark-skinned wandering merchant wearing a straw hat soared into one of the VIP pavilions above, directly rejecting the reception of a Core Formation cultivator who was hosting the event.


    Granny Yun nced at the man¡¯s back and felt a chill in her heart, a sense of dread creeping in.


    The faint and strange Core energy radiating from him was indecipherable, filling her with unease.


    Half an hour remained until the auction began. Cultivators of all kinds gradually entered the venue, including many Core Formation Immortals.


    ¡°Xuan Yin Pavilion! Fairy Ni Yue!¡±


    At one moment, a briefmotion broke out in the auction house as countless fiery gazes turned toward the entrance.


    A group of graceful female cultivators entered the venue in an elegant procession, all dressed in ssical long gowns. They headed toward one of the floating pavilions above.


    Leading them was a woman d in an exquisite pce gown. Silk ribbons swirled around her, framing her delicate eyebrows and moon-like eyes. A veil covered her face, revealing only a pair of bright, moonlit eyes.


    Beneath that thin white veil, her ethereal beauty could be faintly seen. The veil barely concealed her peerless elegance and unworldly aura.


    ¡°So beautiful¡­¡±


    Yun Ling lightly covered her mouth, momentarily dazed, marveling at the sight as if seeing a celestial being.


    Yun Hao¡¯s eyes sparkled, unable to hide his amazement. A trace of infatuation flickered in his gaze before he reluctantly tore his eyes away as the stunning figure descended into the floating pavilion and activated a barrier of istion.


    It wasn¡¯t that the Yun siblingscked self-control. Female cultivators of the Xuan Yin Pavilion practiced musical arts and techniques that amplified their natural charm. Their presence and demeanor were enough to captivate even fellow cultivators of simr rank, causing them to develop favorable impressions.


    And this woman was none other than the Pavilion Master of Xuan Yin Pavilion herself.


    Granny Yun observed Lan Chang''an¡¯s reaction from the corner of her eye.


    Lan Chang''an remainedposed, his gaze calm and filled with only faint admiration, devoid of any infatuation or longing.


    Such poise and natural restraint, without any pretense of aloofness, earned Granny Yun¡¯s silent approval.


    ¡°This Mister Xu is truly a refined gentleman of noble character,¡± Granny Yun thought to herself. ¡°Even Ni Yue¡¯s charm couldn¡¯t sway him. He is indeed a man of lofty virtue.¡±


    Unconsciously, she beganparing him to herte Dao partner.


    Though her husband had been an aplished cultivator, he had taken several concubines in his lifetime. If not for the sake of maintaining his reputation, even he might have wavered when encountering Fairy Ni Yue back then.


    Such subtle thoughts could never escape the awareness of a spouse.


    Yun Ling, snapping out of her trance, also nced at Lan Chang''an¡¯s reaction. Seeing his calm demeanor, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of admiration and delight.


    ¡°Mister Xu has had no dealings with Xuan Yin Pavilion during his time in Gutian Immortal City. It seems we misunderstood earlier. His rtionship with the pavilion¡¯s female cultivators is indeed ordinary, limited only to alchemy transactions.¡±


    Yun Ling and Granny Yun exchanged a nce, silently resolving their previous doubts.


    But just as they thought the matter had been rified, an unexpected voice rang out:


    ¡°Mister Xu, my Pavilion Master invites you to join her above for a discussion.¡±


    A female cultivator from Xuan Yin Pavilion, with a broad build and an imposing presence, stepped forward. Her chest rose prominently as she bowed slightly before Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°The Pavilion Master of Xuan Yin Pavilion has invited me?¡±


    Granny Yun and Yun Ling froze, their expressions flickering with astonishment and uncertainty as they turned to look at Lan Chang''an.


    ¡°Fairy Ni Yue is inviting Mister Xu?¡±


    Yun Hao¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. For the first time, a hint of jealousy surfaced toward the man he had always admired.


    The Pavilion Master of Xuan Yin Pavilion, this unparalleled beauty among female cultivators, was someone he didn¡¯t even dare to look at directly. Her mere presence made him feel unworthy.


    And now, she had sent someone to personally invite Mister Xu.


    ...


    "So it''s Fairy Miao."


    Lan Chang''an nced at the robust figure of Miao Jing, the Fake Dan female cultivator, and returned her salute.


    He could feel the many curious and jealous gazes gathering in the auction house, and internally, he cursed the Xuan Yin Pavilion''s crafty female cultivators.


    They could have sent this invitation earlier orter, but no¡ªthey deliberately chose to do it during the auction, in front of everyone.


    Lan Chang''an had already been in Gutian Immortal City for ten days. If the Xuan Yin Pavilion wanted to invite him, they could have done so privately long ago.


    ¡°Mister Xu, surely you wouldn¡¯t reject the Pavilion Master''s kind invitation?¡±


    Miao Jing''s tone was sweet and teasing, her face¡ªbroad as a basin¡ªshowing a look of anticipation.


    ¡°How could I dare refuse an invitation from Fairy Ni Yue?¡±


    Lan Chang''an maintained his refined demeanor.


    At this point, he knew that whether he epted or not, the attention was already on him.


    If he went, he would be the target of jealousy.


    If he refused, he would be seen as ungrateful and disrespectful, offending not only Fairy Ni Yue but also her admirers.


    With no better option, Lan Chang''an followed Miao Jing and ascended to the floating pavilion belonging to the Xuan Yin Pavilion.


    As fate would have it, Lan Chang''an¡¯s puppet clone happened to be in the adjacent pavilion, both pavilions shielded by istion formations.


    Inside the Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s VIP pavilion were four women and one man.


    Among them were familiar faces: Jiang Ruotong and Miao Jing.


    At the center was Fairy Ni Yue, dressed in a flowing pce gown with silk ribbons encircling her.


    Without the veil she wore in public, her radiant beauty was fully revealed.


    Her face was the embodiment of elegance and grace, with features that could be described as a celestial masterpiece.


    ¡°Mister Xu, this invitation was made on a whim. Please forgive me for any abruptness.¡±


    Fairy Ni Yue stood gracefully, smoothing the folds of her gown as she gave a slight bow. Her soft lips parted, and her voice, like the melody of pearls falling onto a jade te, was as enchanting as her appearance.


    Her perfect demeanor and breathtaking beauty could dissipate even the most intense anger in an instant.


    For a moment, Lan Chang''an felt as though he were listening to a beautiful symphony. Any trace of displeasure in his heart vanished, reced by feelings of joy and warmth.


    ¡°Truly a top-tier cultivator of the musical arts!¡±


    Lan Chang''an steadied his mind and silently marveled.


    He was not entranced by her beauty or charm; instead, it was the power of her musical cultivation at work, resonating with a human¡¯s innate yearning for beauty and harmony.


    Any slight dissatisfaction he felt earlier had beenpletely dissolved by her artistry.


    Lan Chang''an did not feel the need to resist. If someone could lift a Core Formation cultivator¡¯s mood simply by their presence, that was a skill worthy of admiration.


    No wonder so many cultivators dreamed of marrying female disciples of the Xuan Yin Pavilion. If their musical techniques could consistently provide a serene and positive mindset, it would undoubtedly smooth the path of cultivation and prevent inner demons.


    ¡°The Pavilion Master is too polite. Years ago, during my time in Feng Kingdom, I had already heard of Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s illustrious reputation,¡± Lan Chang''an replied humbly, cupping his hands in respect.


    After some pleasantries, Fairy Ni Yue introduced the other upants of the pavilion.


    ¡°Mister Xu, we meet again.¡±


    Jiang Ruotong greeted him with a calm expression and a slight bow.


    Aside from Jiang Ruotong and Miao Jing, there was another Fake Dan female cultivator present.


    The only male in the group was a tall, handsome cultivator with an elegant demeanor, appearing to be in his thirties.


    ¡°This is Dongfang Xi, a Guest Elder of the Xuan Yin Pavilion, a third-rank alchemist proficient in pharmacology and good at detoxifying poisons,¡± Fairy Ni Yue said, gesturing toward the man.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard much about you, Mister Xu. I¡¯ve long admired your reputation. Your skills in alchemy and pharmacology are truly remarkable,¡± Dongfang Xi said with a warm smile, his tone polite and gentlemanly.


    ¡°So it''s alchemist Dongfang,¡± Lan Chang''an said, giving him a brief nce.


    From his observation, this third-rank alchemist seemed to specialize more in herbal medicine and medical techniques rather than pill refinement.


    Otherwise, the Xuan Yin Pavilion wouldn¡¯t have been so eager to recruit Lan Chang''an.


    After everyone was seated, Fairy Ni Yue did not immediately attempt to recruit Lan Chang''an. Instead, she began by expressing her gratitude for his past assistance.


    ¡°This small token is a gesture of our appreciation. Please ept it, Mister Xu.¡±


    Beyond mere words, Fairy Ni Yue waved her sleeve, producing a pink-gold token and a blue jade book.


    ¡°This token is the highest-tier VIP pass to the ¡®Xuan Yin Hall¡¯ establishments. With it, you may visit any Xuan Yin Hall in the various immortal cities and request a private performance from the resident courtesans. Additionally, you will enjoy a 50% discount on all services.¡±


    ¡°This jade book contains the lost ancient musical score, The Garments of Rainbow and Feather. If you canprehend it, it will allow you to ascend to divine heights in the musical arts. It is one of the Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s oldest treasures.¡±


    Every movement of Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s, every smile, carried the grace of a ssical beauty stepping out of a painting, leaving onlookers captivated.


    ¡°You have been too generous, Fairy Ni Yue.¡±


    Without refusing, Lan Chang''an epted the gifts with grace.


    During their subsequent conversation, Lan Chang''an carefully observed Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s face.


    As he scrutinized her features, he noticed something peculiar, causing him to take a few extra nces.


    To the others present, it seemed as though Lan Chang''an was staring at Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s face, a gesture that came across as somewhat rude.


    Dongfang Xi¡¯s brows furrowed slightly, his displeasure evident.


    Seeing that Fairy Ni Yue remainedposed and smiling, Dongfang Xi suppressed his irritation and said nothing. After all, Lan Chang''an was merely staring and had not done anything truly offensive.


    Jiang Ruotong, however, felt a faint sense of disappointment.


    Previously, Lan Chang''an had remained indifferent to her subtle hints, leading her to believe he was a transcendent, otherworldly gentleman.


    But now, in the presence of Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s unmatched beauty, he appeared no different from any other man, unable to resist her allure.


    ¡°Mister Xu, are you perhaps skilled in divination and reading my fortune?¡± Fairy Ni Yue teased with a smile, breaking the tension. Her expression was calm andposed, showing no sign of annoyance.


    From a young age, her brilliance and charm had made her the center of attention wherever she went. She was long ustomed to being stared at.


    ¡°Fairy Ni Yue overestimates me,¡± Lan Chang''an replied with a wry smile. ¡°I was simply awestruck by your beauty and momentarily lost myposure. Please forgive mypse in manners.¡±


    His self-deprecating humor effectively dissolved the awkwardness, earning a round of chuckles from everyone, including Fairy Ni Yue herself.


    ¡°What a pity such a beautiful woman will die young,¡± Lan Chang''an sighed inwardly.


    Beneath Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s peerless beauty, he had seen a hint of her destiny.


    A tragic fate.


    She had a short life ahead of her, unlikely to survive more than ten years.


    From her mid-stage Core Formation cultivation, Lan Chang''an could tell that she had once attempted to break through to thete stage but had failed.


    This wasmon among Core Formation cultivators¡ªonly one in ten could seed in advancing further.


    Unless one possessed an Immortal Golden Dan, it was nearly impossible to guarantee such a breakthrough.


    Though Fairy Ni Yue had unmatched talent in the musical arts, shecked an innate heavenly spiritual root.


    Furthermore, leading the Xuan Yin Pavilion to gain a foothold and take root in this desert, facing the prying eyes of all kinds of jackals, tigers, and leopards had drained her vitality, leaving hidden wounds.


    ...


    Half an hourter, the auction hall was packed, and the auction officially began.


    Due to Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s invitation, Lan Chang''an remained in the floating VIP pavilion to participate in the auction alongside the Xuan Yin Pavilion cultivators.


    If he were to leave, he would only attract more attention. Staying here not only avoided unnecessary trouble but also provided ess to better service.


    For someone like Lan Chang''an, a third-rank alchemist, being recruited by a major faction, even one as prominent as the Xuan Yin Pavilion, was a fairlymon urrence.


    The first part of the auction featured rare items for Foundation Establishment cultivators and below.


    After all, the majority of the participants at the auction were Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    During this phase, neither Lan Chang''an nor the female cultivators of the Xuan Yin Pavilion showed much interest in the items being auctioned.


    It wasn¡¯t until the second half of the auction, when items intended for Core Formation cultivators asionally appeared, that the atmosphere began to heat up.


    ¡°A juvenile Golden-Feathered Eagle, starting price: 2,500 spirit stones.¡±


    ¡°The Golden-Feathered Eagle is a rare superior-grade bloodline spirit bird, umon in the wilderness. Renowned for its exceptional flight and reconnaissance abilities, it is a ferocious aerial predator. With sufficient investment in resources and spiritual materials, the Golden-Feathered Eagle can grow rapidly into a formidable flying mount¡­¡±


    The auctioneer¡¯s introduction ignited a wave of excitement among the participants.


    ¡°3,000 spirit stones!¡±


    ¡°3,500!¡±


    ¡°3,800 spirit stones!¡±


    Due to its practicality, strong overall capabilities, and quick growth, the Golden-Feathered Eagle attracted fiercepetition from various factions and independent cultivators.


    ¡°4,000 spirit stones!¡±


    Even Miao Jing from the Xuan Yin Pavilion joined the bidding.


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s expression turned slightly unusual, but he didn¡¯t participate.


    This very Golden-Feathered Eagle was actually something his puppet clone had sold off as stolen goods, and now someone arranged for it to be auctioned for a higher profit.


    Lan Chang''an had too many resources to offload. Sending everything to the auction to maximize profits would risk exposing his connections.


    ¡°Next item: 200 pounds of mid-grade third-rank Cloud Peak Ore. Ideal for crafting magical treasures or constructing high-quality puppets.¡±


    ¡°200 pounds of Cloud Peak Ore, a significant quantity. Starting price: 6,000 spirit stones, with minimum bids of 100 spirit stones.¡±


    In the vast wilderness, mineral resources were rtively abundant, but high-grade ores remained expensive.


    For reference, an average low-grade magical treasure would sell for just 10,000 to 20,000 spirit stones.


    ¡°6,300 spirit stones¡­ 6,600 spirit stones¡­¡±


    ¡°8,000 spirit stones!¡±


    A hoarse, indifferent voice came from the neighboring VIP pavilion. The speaker was the straw hat wandering merchant.


    The auction hall fell momentarily silent.


    ¡°8,000 spirit stones. Any higher offers? Cloud Peak Ore is highly versatile and absolutely worth the investment¡­¡±


    The middle-aged auctioneer, with bronze-toned skin, raised his voice enthusiastically.


    ¡°Hehe, eight thousand two hundred spirit stones.¡±


    A calm, casual voice rang out from a distant VIP pavilion on the right.


    There, a silver-robed Core Formation cultivator, appearing to be in his forties with a neatly groomed two-inch beard, lounged casually.


    ¡°8,500 spirit stones.¡±


    The straw hat wandering merchant frowned but raised the bid again.


    ¡°Heh, 8,600 spirit stones. This Cloud Peak Ore seems fated for this Immortal.¡±


    The silver-robed cultivator smiled faintly, his tone rxed.


    ¡°Immortal Yunhe of the Canglong Water Stronghold, a newly ascended Core Formation cultivator from the Beihe Family,¡± someone in the audience identified the silver-robed Immortal.


    The Beihe Family controlled a spiritualnd of marshes and waterways in the region.


    ¡°8,800 spirit stones.¡±


    The straw hat wandering merchant raised the bid yet again.


    Immortal Yunhe chuckled lightly, preparing to increase his bid by another 100 spirit stones.


    Boom!


    Suddenly, his sea of consciousness trembled violently as an overwhelming and oppressive spiritual sense locked onto him.


    ¡°Brat! Are you trying to oppose me, Dao Lord, of the Azure Dragon Society?¡±


    A cold, threatening voice echoed in his mind.


    ¡°Hmph, unless you n to never leave Gutian Immortal City, this poor Daoist will let you have these 200 pounds of Cloud Peak Ore.¡±


    The oppressive spiritual sense made it difficult for him to breathe, and the threat was crystal clear.


    ¡°Late Core Formation Great Cultivator!¡±


    Immortal Yunhe¡¯s face turned pale as fear gripped his heart.


    His n didn¡¯t even have a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, and offending ate Core Formation Great Cultivator for a third-rank material was a risk of extermination for the whole n.


    For a third-rank material, was it worth risking the destruction of his entire n?


    ¡°8,800 spirit stones. Any higher bids? If not, the Cloud Peak Ore will go to the fellow Daoist in VIP Room 8.¡±


    The auctioneer, quick to adapt, hurriedly concluded the bidding.


    A few observant cultivators in the audience noticed something amiss. Judging by Immortal Yunhe¡¯s expression, they could guess what had happened.


    ¡°Outrageous! Using spiritual sense to intimidate others during an auction!¡±


    The ck-robed Core Formation cultivator overseeing the auction rose to his feet, his expression furious, his gaze sharp.


    ording to the auction rules, using spiritual sense to threaten others would result in the offender being expelled, and the bidding results would be nullified.


    ¡°Chuan¡¯er, that person is ate Core Formation expert, are you sure you want to confront him?¡±


    An aged voice sounded in the ck-robed cultivator¡¯s ear.


    ¡°Ate-stage Core Formation cultivator? Why would someone like that participate in this kind of auction?¡±


    The ck-robed cultivator¡¯s face turned pale, and cold sweat dripped from his palms.


    In this region of the Outer Sect Alliance, there were no fourth-rank spiritual veins or Nascent Soul cultivators. Late-stage Core Formation cultivators were the most powerful beings here, lording over nearby oases and spiritnds.


    ¡°That mysterious individual is also the sender of the grand finale item¡ªthe Crystal Condensation Pill.¡±


    The aged voice stopped speaking after delivering this revtion.


    The ck-robed cultivator slumped back into his seat, abandoning his attempt to enforce the rules.


    The auction¡¯s strict regtions only applied to ordinary cultivators. They held no sway over true powerhouses.


    While the Mysterious Mechanism Tower had its ownte-stage Core Formation cultivator overseeing the city, that expert rarely interfered with external matters, focusing entirely on studying puppet techniques.


    As long as the mysterious bidder didn¡¯t go too far, even the Mysterious Mechanism Tower wouldn¡¯t want to provoke such a powerful figure.


    ...


    In thetter half of the auction, the straw hat wandering merchant made several more bids on various items.


    The items he bid on included materials rted to alchemy, puppetry, and poisons, showcasing his extraordinary wealth and boldness.


    After seeing what had happened to Immortal Yunhe earlier, no other Core Formation cultivators dared to confront this mysterious figure head-on.


    "Forget it."


    Fairy Ni Yue sighed softly, giving up on one of the spiritual materials she had beenpeting for.


    ¡°At least it spares me some trouble,¡± Lan Chang''an thought to himself, nodding subtly.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Thanks to this auction, the materials he needed for the construction of his second mid-grade third-rank puppet were basically put together, with some surplus materials for future use.


    The final few items of the auction included a mid-grade magical treasure and a third-rank Water Spirit Pearl, all of which fetched prices in the tens of thousands of spirit stones but drew only moderate interest.


    Finally, the most anticipated item of the auction was revealed, drawing intense focus from all factions.


    ¡°The grand finale of today¡¯s auction¡ªa genuine Crystal Condensation Pill!


    This rare elixir can significantly increase the chances of sessfully forming a Core and is an unparalleled treasure in the Fengyuan Kingdom,¡± the auctioneer announced, his voice filled with excitement.


    ¡°As requested by the consignor, bids may include third-rank Life Extension Pills or advanced puppet-crafting techniques as trade-in options or partial payment.¡±


    ¡°The starting bid for this genuine Crystal Condensation Pill is 38,000 spirit stones, with minimum bid increments of 1,000 spirit stones.¡±


    Even before the auctioneer¡¯s words had fully settled, bids erupted like a tidal wave.


    ¡°40,000 spirit stones!¡±


    ¡°41,000!¡±


    ¡°45,000 spirit stones!¡±


    The bids climbed rapidly, quickly surpassing the 50,000 mark.


    As expected, the Xuan Yin Pavilion joined thepetition but ultimately failed to secure the item.


    In the end, the Crystal Condensation Pill was won by a Core Formation elder from a major merchant association.


    The elder had taken out a fragmented puppet-crafting inheritance from the Thousand Mechanisms Sect that satisfied the consignor. This allowed him to offset 20,000 spirit stones and gain priority in the bidding.


    "Surprisingly, it''s him..."


    When the straw hat wandering merchant went to verify the puppet-crafting inheritance, the female Core Formation cultivators from Xuan Yin Pavilion were shocked.


    This mysterious individual, suspected to be ate-stage Core Formation expert, had disyed both wealth and power during the auction, even using spiritual sense to intimidate others.


    It was entirely unexpected that the Crystal Condensation Pill was also his consignment.


    Such a mysterious and formidable figuremanded both respect and fear from the various factions present.


    Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s clear eyes sparkled as she lightly bit her red lips, contemting whether to take the opportunity to approach this person.


    After all, proximity often leads to advantageous connections.


    However, she was well aware that this wandering cultivator was no ordinary figure and likely not someone to be trifled with, making such a venture inherently risky.


    In the end, she didn¡¯t need to decide.


    The straw hat cultivator gave her no chance at all.


    After the auction concluded, he vanished from the venue like a ghost, disappearing in the blink of an eye.


    ...


    With the auction officially over, the attendees gradually began to disperse.


    Lan Chang''an appeared to have been an uninvolved observer throughout, making only modest gains.


    He stood, preparing to take his leave and bid farewell to the Xuan Yin Pavilion cultivators.


    ¡°Mister Xu, please wait.¡±


    A melodious, ethereal voice drifted over, apanied by a faint lingering fragrance.


    Fairy Ni Yue approached him with a serene smile, her elegant steps light as lotus petals, stopping before him.


    ¡°I have something I wish to discuss with you,¡± she said, her tone warm and inviting.

 Chapter 302: Mid Core Formation

    Read 30 Chapters Ahead On Patreon :D /zwere


    "The Xuan Yin Pavilion has purchased an oasis located between the two immortal cities of Changfeng and Gutian. It contains a third-rank spirit vein, and they¡¯ve invited a vein formation master to nurture it into a mid-grade third-rank vein within five years. By then, Xuan Yin Pavilion will rebuild their mountain gate at this location."


    In the hovering VIP pavilion, a clear and melodious voice filled with enchanting rhythm resonated.


    Fairy Ni Yue smiled gracefully and said, "I won¡¯t insist that Mister Xu join our pavilion. But when the new mountain gate is established, would you consider being our guest? If you like the scenery and culture of the area, it won''t be toote to decide."


    "I would like to congratte your pavilion in advance on the joyous asion of relocating your mountain gate," Lan Chang''an replied solemnly, cupping his hands with respect.


    Xuan Yin Pavilion had been forced to flee and relocate to the Fengyuan Kingdom after their mountain gate was breached over sixty years ago.


    Initially, they were in dire straits¡ªwithout a suitable ce to establish a new mountain gate, and their resources were far less abundantpared to sects like the simrly uprooted me Departing Pce.


    The beautiful female cultivators of Xuan Yin Pavilion, renowned for their mastery of music, even became targets of covetous desires and oppression from local powers.


    Due to their precarious situation and for the sake of security, Xuan Yin Pavilion remained stationed in Changfeng Immortal City without a mountain gate to call their own.Over the decades, Xuan Yin Pavilion gradually built their presence through the operations of the Xuan Yin Halls, which were branches opened in major immortal cities and specialized in selling musical instruments, magical treasures, perfumes, and celestial dresses.


    The highest source of revenue was Xuan Yin Hall itself. Although they imed to "sell art, not bodies," this restriction only applied to Xuan Yin Pavilion''s core members.


    Peripheral performers trained by the pavilion would still rely on their charms to generate revenue, as purely artistic pursuits yielded insufficient profits.


    In addition, the pavilion dabbled in intelligence gathering and sold valuable information to intelligenceworks.


    Through years of umtion, Xuan Yin Pavilion had established itself firmly in the Fengyuan Kingdom, growing into an unignorable sect in this cultivation world.


    Now, they had finally secured a spirit vein suitable for a new mountain gate.


    "If invited by Pavilion Master Ni Yue, I will certainly visit when time allows," Lan Chang''an replied thoughtfully.


    The mid-grade third-rank spirit vein mentioned by Fairy Ni Yue aligned perfectly with his interests.


    He spected that Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s intelligencework had likely uncovered details about his circumstances at the Mountain-Water Manor.


    If he were merely at the Fake Dan stage, there would be no need for such a high-tier spirit vein.


    However, if he had achieved True Dan Stage cultivation, with the possibility of advancing further, an even more exceptional spirit vein environment paired with beautiful scenery and alluringpany could be a significant attraction.


    Still, Fairy Ni Yue¡¯s aura of misfortune, hinting at an early demise, gave Lan Chang''an pause.


    He decided to consult divination results in the future before making a final decision.


    A cultivator''s fate was never entirely fixed.


    It could be influenced by someone with great fortune or higher-level cultivators, providing a slim chance of survival even for great cmities.


    Moreover, face reading divinations were never one hundred percent urate.


    As Lan Chang''an departed, the several fairies of Xuan Yin Pavilion watched his retreating figure, their expressions subtle and varied.


    Among them, Dongfang Xi stood at the back corner with a faint smile. Unnoticed by the others, a trace of ridicule shed in her eyes.


    ...


    Outside the auction hall.


    Lan Chang''an reunited with Yun Yan and the Yun siblings.


    The three did not ask about the specifics of his private conversation with Fairy Ni Yue.


    Yun Ling, however, seemed a bit dejected, forcing a smile to hide her disappointment.


    With the auction just concluded, the group did not leave the immortal city immediately, as there were still some supplies to purchase.


    During this time, major shops in the city held promotional sales, including discounts on rare items.


    Lan Chang''an assigned the remaining tasks to his puppet clone to handle the shopping.


    At the inn, he took out the third-rank puppet inheritance he had acquired from the auction, remnants from the Thousand Mechanisms Sect.


    "As expected of the Thousand Mechanisms Sect, the grandmasters of puppetry across the entire Great Qing," Lan Chang''an murmured in admiration.


    The remnants contained precisely the realistic puppet-making techniques he needed. In addition, it included secret techniques for bestowing magical powers and unique abilities onto puppets.


    One section even mentioned abination technique known as the Puppet Army Formation, which allowed multiple puppets to form a military array and fully leverage their numerical advantage.


    If used in stationary battles, this Puppet Army Formation could potentially allow lower-tier puppets to challenge higher-tier opponents.


    For example, an array formed by four or more top-grade third-rank puppets could temporarily withstand the attacks of a Nascent Soul True Monarch.


    Unfortunately, this Puppet Army Formation was a core secret of the Thousand Mechanisms Sect, and the remnant only mentioned it without detailed contents.


    "To create exceptional third-rank superior-grade or even higher-grade exotic spirit puppets, I¡¯ll need to broaden my horizons and absorb more advanced puppet techniques," Lan Chang''an thought, envisioning the future.


    If he could forge four or more exotic spirit puppet clones above the third-rank superior level andbine them with the Puppet Army Formation, the resulting power would surpass that of traditional army formations.


    Moreover, puppet clones could integrate the shadows of souls at the peak Core Formation stage or even the Nascent Soul stage.


    In nonbat states, the puppet clones could sustain the integrated soul shadows for extended periods.


    As Lan Chang''an¡¯s cultivation level continued to rise, the time required to unlock his second life and fourth life would further decrease.


    ...


    Three dayster.


    Afterpleting the remaining purchases, Lan Chang''an waited to rendezvous with the Yun siblings to return to the oasis together.


    During this time, the True Dan elder from the "Magpie Merchant Association" who had sessfully bid for the Crystal Condensation Pill became the focus of much attention within the immortal city.


    The Magpie Merchant Association¡¯s elder, with whom Lan Chang''an traded was their most senior Grand Elder, possessing a peak early Core Formation cultivation. To ensure their safety, the Grand Elder had hired high-level escorts within the city¡ªa formidable lineup, including one True Dan escort and two Fake Dan cultivators.


    Combined with the merchant guild¡¯s own personnel, their escort team was exceptionally strong. Normally, with two True Dan cultivators and several Fake Dan experts, safeguarding the Crystal Condensation Pill wouldn¡¯t have been an issue. After all, the pill wasn¡¯t particrly enticing to mid or Late Core Formation cultivators, who were typically prominent figures in the Fengyuan Kingdom and unlikely to act recklessly.


    On the day of departure, the Magpie Merchant Association¡¯s group, apanied by their escorts, took flight from Gutian Immortal City.


    Meanwhile, Lan Chang''an and the Yun siblings also exited their inn, preparing to leave the city.


    Just then, about thirty li away, the booming sound of muffled thunder suddenly echoed, followed by a violent sh of techniques. Even from this distance, the disturbance caused qi and blood fluctuations among lower-level cultivators within the immortal city, throwing their mana into disarray.


    On the horizon, rolling clouds of fire surged. A faint outline of a massive ming mountain magical treasure appeared, emanating scorching spiritual pressure exceeding that of a typical mid Core Formation cultivator.


    "Bold tribal cultivators! How dare youmit robbery outside the immortal city!"


    The Grand Elder of the Magpie Merchant Association and their True Dan escort shouted in shock and anger, caughtpletely off guard.


    A dark green giant, towering two to three zhang tall, appeared amidst the chaos. The giant¡¯s massive nose was adorned with a nose ring, and from its nostrils billowed strange ck-green winds. The gusts swept through the area, destabilizing light-flight techniques and rendering escape impossible.


    The strange wind even dimmed the light of defensive magical treasures and protective barriers, causing their radiance to flicker and rapidly fade.


    This was the terrifying innate ability of a pure body cultivator.


    The dark green-skinned giant, with leathery skin resembling cowhide, was a mid third-rank body cultivator. Their immense strength could rival a mountain, and every breath it exhaled reverberated like rolling thunder.


    "End this in ten breaths!" a ck-robed cultivator with a conical hatmanded coldly, his voice carrying the mana fluctuations of a mid Core Formation cultivator. He controlled a massive ming mountain magical treasure.


    Boom!


    The ming mountain magical treasure descended from the clouds, unleashing a downpour of moltenva and fiery clouds. Its power approached that of ate Core Formation cultivator.


    In mere moments, anguished screams rang out one after another.


    Aside from the two True Dan cultivators, none of the otherssted more than two breaths.


    "Stop! I¡¯m willing to hand over the Crystal Condensation Pill!" The Grand Elder of the Magpie Merchant Association gasped in desperation, struggling under the overwhelming pressure of the ming mountain.


    But the ck-green winds surrounding them restrained their light flying techniques, leaving them unable to escape.


    "Die!"


    With a thunderous roar, the dark green giant charged forward. Its massive fist, the size of a millstone, punched through the bodies of the two True Dan cultivators one after the other.


    In less than ten breaths, the fiery clouds dissipated, leaving behind a massive crater filled with mes and no trace of corpses or remains.


    The ck-robed, hat-wearing cultivator and the dark green body cultivator transformed into two ck streaks of light, vanishing into the distant sky.


    "Capture the robbers!"


    Momentster, three True Dan cultivators flew out of Gutian Immortal City, with one in the lead¡ªan expressionless Late Core Formation puppet master with a mechanical arm.


    After pursuing for about a hundred li, the puppet master¡¯s blue eyes flickered with a strange light. He raised his hand, signaling the other two True Dan elders to stop.


    "City Lord, why are we stopping?" one of the True Dan elders asked in confusion.


    "There¡¯s a Late Core Formation expert covering their retreat," the puppet master said gravely.


    During the chase, he had sensed the interference of a powerful Late Core Formation cultivator¡¯s spiritual sense, obstructing their pursuit.


    "Strange. Why would such a minor auction attract two Late Core Formation experts?"


    "City Lord, could it be that the mysterious traveling merchant from the auction and these two are connected? Perhaps they are the same person. This merchant not only sold the Crystal Condensation Pill but also orchestrated the ambush to seize it back," spected a green-haired mid Core Formation cultivator.


    "It¡¯s possible. If this is indeed the case, such a vicious and ruthless viin must be reported to the Outer Sect Alliance. All factions must work together to eliminate him."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ...


    Within the Immortal City, Lan Chang''an withdrew his consciousness from the Nine Seal Stele.


    Through fusion with the fourth life, his strengthened spiritual sense had allowed him to clearly observe the details of the battle.


    "The strength of those two attackers exceeds that of ordinary mid Core Formation cultivators. That ck-robed man seemed to be holding back during the fight," Lan Chang''an thought, reflecting on the scene.


    "The ming mountain magical treasure he wielded appears to have been forged by fusing multiple fire-element magical treasures from me Departing Pce. Its power was partially sealed during the confrontation."


    If not for having transformed Master Lihuo into his fourth life and gaining third-rank superior-grade artifact crafting level, Lan Chang''an wouldn¡¯t have discerned such intricate details.


    "Could it be him?"


    A name floated to the forefront of Lan Chang''an¡¯s mind¡ªFang Zhen, the traitor of me Departing Pce.


    Without ughtering his fellow sect members, it would have been impossible to refine multiple fire-element magical treasures of the same origin.


    However, as a Late Core Formation cultivator, Fang Zhen had little personal use for the Crystal Condensation Pill. It would merely serve as a resource or asset.


    For Fang Zhen to take such a risk and intercept the pill, there were two possible reasons:


    One, he intended to gift it to an important descendant or junior, or Fang Zhen harbored grand ambitions¡ªperhaps he sought to establish his own faction.


    ...


    A few dayster.


    After ensuring the area outside the immortal city was safe, various groups of cultivators began leaving the city one after another.


    Theplete annihtion of the powerful Magpie Merchant Association escort, with no remains left behind, had struck fear into many factions and individual cultivators, making them hesitant to venture out of the city.


    To address this, Gutian Immortal City dispatched giant puppet constructs and avian puppets to patrol and monitor the surrounding areas, bolstering security.


    Lan Chang''an summoned the flying carpet magical treasure, which carried the Yun siblings and himself as they began their journey back.


    Half an hourter.


    The group was now only seven or eight hundred li away from the River Source Oasis.


    Seated at the front of the flying carpet, Lan Chang''an suddenly felt a moment of premonition. Quietly, he slipped his hand into his sleeve and began calcting with his fingers.


    "Mister Xu, why aren¡¯t we returning by the same route?" Yun Ling asked perceptively, noticing that Lan Chang''an had veered off the direct path and was taking a longer route, bypassing the oasis from another direction.


    "I just remembered that I¡¯ve never enjoyed the scenery of the sand dunes on the other side of the oasis," Lan Chang''an said with a calm and gentle tone, apanied by a faint smile.


    "Is that so?" Yun Ling exchanged a nce with her elder brother Yun Hao, both finding the exnation somewhat unconvincing.


    After all, the area outside the oasis wasrgely a deste desert. What scenery was there to enjoy?


    Meanwhile, the elderly Yun Granny¡¯s cloudy eyes narrowed in thought. She discreetly performed her own divination but found the result ambiguous and unclear. Although she had learned divination from herte husband, her mastery was far from proficient. She could handle minor matters, but when faced with significant challenges, her skill was insufficient.


    Ultimately, the group of four returned safely to the River Source Oasis.


    "Mister Xu, thank you for your care during this journey. I will host a banquet to show my gratitude someday," Yun Granny said sincerely, bowing to Lan Chang''an with great respect before they parted ways.


    "It was nothing," Lan Chang''an replied with a smile and then returned to his Mountain-Water Manor.


    After returning to the Treasure Pavilion, Yun Granny retrieved several rare divination tools and performed a full-strength divination. This time, the result was clear: ¡°Surviving cmity.¡±


    The two simple words made Yun Granny break out in a cold sweat.


    That same night, Elder Duan hurried over after hearing the news to confirm the uracy of the divination.


    "Granny, it¡¯s good that you¡¯re all unharmed!"


    Elder Duan let out a long sigh of relief.


    "Earlier, our Yingsha Worms sent back information that there was powerful cultivators lurking a few hundred li outside the oasis¡ªlikely Fang Zhen and his aplices."


    "It seems that the traitor Fang Zhen has already tracked down our lineage. He doesn¡¯t dare act openly because of the local powers in the oasis and the contingencies left behind by your grandfather when he was alive," Yun Granny said, her aged voice regaining the melodious tone of her younger days.


    Yun Granny then exined to Elder Duan how Lan Chang''an had chosen to take a detour to avoid the danger entirely.


    "Mister Xu is truly an extraordinary individual¡ªnot only a third-rank alchemist, but also proficient in divination," Elder Duan remarked, amazed. He realized he had greatly underestimated Lan Chang''an, having previously thought he was merely concealing his true cultivation level.


    Yun Granny nodded. "No wonder Xuan Yin Pavilion¡¯s Fairy Ni Yue personally sought to recruit him. A man like this could be invaluable to our family. We cannot allow the Xuan Yin Pavilion buy him off."


    Elder Duan hesitated before asking, "Granny, how do you n to win him over?"


    Yun Granny pondered for a moment before replying, "In terms of beauty, allure, or resources, our n cannotpete with Xuan Yin Pavilion. Our only advantage is Ling¡¯er, who shares a natural affinity with Mister Xu."


    She then made a decisive n: "Ling¡¯er¡¯s parents were mortals and are no longer in this world. I intend to have Ling¡¯er either be Mister Xu¡¯s disciple or recognize him as her godfather."


    "Godfather?" Elder Duan blinked, momentarily stunned. He couldn¡¯t find any w in the n but felt instinctively that something about it was odd.


    ...


    At Mountain-Water Manor, Lan Chang''an sat and reflected on the events in Gutian Immortal City and the return journey. After a moment, he carefully calcted again.


    "That Fang Zhen¡­ Not only does he interfere with my cultivation in the Fengyuan Kingdom, but he even dared tomit ambushes outside Gutian Immortal City and attempted to pin the me on my puppet clone, Dao Lord."


    A cold gleam flickered in Lan Chang''an¡¯s eyes as he developed a killing intent toward Fang Zhen.


    Thanks to the memories of the fourth life, Lan Chang''an knew Fang Zhen¡¯s background all too well. This man, once part of the Law Enforcement Hall of me Departing Pce, was ruthless, cunning, and utterly unscrupulous.


    However, the timing wasn¡¯t yet ripe to track down and eliminate him.


    "I¡¯ll wait a few years. Once I¡¯ve advanced to mid Core Formation, I¡¯ll eradicate this scum."


    Lan Chang''an made up his mind.


    Lan Chang''an had formed his Immortal Golden Dan at the age of 177. After cultivating for 60 years, he had reached the peak of early Core Formation and was preparing to break through the bottleneck to mid Core Formation. Now, at 232 and a half years old, he was only a few years away from advancing.


    At his current level, Lan Chang''an possessed numerous methods and had a high chance of defeating Fang Zhen. However, outright killing Fang Zhen was a far greater challenge. Unless he summoned the full power of the fourth life, there was still a 10-20% chance Fang Zhen might escape even if ambushed.


    Lan Chang''an also recalled that Fang Zhen practiced the Crimson Sun Blood-Escape Technique, a movement technique that sacrificed blood essence for incredible speed. Even though Fang Zhen had only obtained the first two levels of the technique back in me Departing Pce, it was already exceedingly fast.


    ...


    Half a yearter.


    At the age of 233, Lan Chang''an organized the materials he had gathered during the auction and designed the blueprint for his second mid-grade third-rank puppet.


    In pursuit of mobility and pursuit capabilities, this time a ck Eagle flying puppet was created. Using highly realistic bio-mimetic techniques, the puppet resembled a genuine ck eagle demon beast to an uncanny degree.


    When used for reconnaissance and avoiding closebat, it was nearly indistinguishable from a living creature.


    Next, Lan Chang''an imbued the soul shadow from his second life into the ck Eagle puppet, enhancing its abilities with the spiritual strength of a peak Core Formation stage soul. This dramatically increased its tracking and reconnaissance capabilities.


    Without leaving his estate, Lan Chang''an could rely on the ck Eagle puppet for long-range surveince. It would soar through the vast celestial sky and Earth Burrowing Rat would burrow deep into the earth, allowing him to monitor threats across thousands¡ªor even tens of thousands of li. Through their shared sensory link, the ck Eagle puppet became an extension of his own perception.


    After refining this second mid-grade third-rank puppet, Lan Chang''an realized that gathering the materials for a third puppet of the same grade would take significant time. However, the materials required for low-grade third-rank puppets were far easier to acquire, enabling him to potentially create two more of them.


    Havingpleted his puppetry projects, Lan Chang''an decided to focus on cultivation for the next few years.


    ...


    Four years flew by.


    Time flew by, and most of the powers and cultivators in the oasis had nearly forgotten Lan Chang''an¡¯s existence.


    On this particr day, Mountain-Water Manor was concealed by the quasi-fourth-rank illusion formation, making it imperceptible to outsiders.


    "237 years old, and I¡¯ve finally reached the peak of early Core Formation!"


    Sitting cross-legged in his cultivation chamber, Lan Chang''an sensed his Immortal Golden Dan pulsing to its limit, filled to capacity with Evergreen mana. At this stage, there was no room for further progress within this minor realm.


    After resting for a few days to stabilize his foundation, he began the critical process of breaking through to mid Core Formation.


    For ordinary True Dan cultivators, reaching the peak of early Core Formation would require years of tempering and preparation before attempting to break through. Even then, the sess rate on the first attempt was usually low.


    However, Lan Chang''an having formed an Immortal Golden Dan, he had a profound foundation and also the insights of a Nascent Soul expert. Confident in his abilities, he chose to attempt the breakthrough directly.


    Even so, during the process, Lan Chang''an could clearly feel the presence of the bottleneck and the immense resistance it posed.


    This was a testament to just how significant the challenge would be for ordinary Core Formation cultivators impacting such a bottleneck.


    Seven dayster.


    Within Lan Chang''an¡¯s dantian, the pale green Core, inscribed with intricate Dao patterns, began to shrink in size. The surrounding space seemed to distort slightly, giving off a faint sensation of copse.


    Finally, at a pivotal moment¡ª


    Boom!


    The oval-shaped Immortal Golden Dan trembled, and its surface became adorned with resplendent golden-ss patterns that radiated endlessly. A surge of new Evergreen mana flowed out, its quality doublingpared to before!


    With an Immortal Golden Dan, the quality of mana was only fractionally higher than others in the same minor realm.


    A small realm breakthrough, however, directly doubled it.


    Of course, Golden Dan was mainly a reflection of underlying potential, and fighting strength was only one of the advantages.


    "Mid Core Formation¡­ sess, as natural as flowing water!"


    Sitting in the center of his cultivation chamber, Lan Chang''an exuded a vibrant aura of vitality, resembling the boundless life force of an ancient evergreen tree. A faint, enticing fragrance of fruit filled the air, bearing hints of mystery.


    Though the breakthrough created no heaven-and-earth phenomenon, the quasi-fourth-rank illusion array shrouding the manor ensured that no one outside could detect that a powerful mid-stage Core Formation cultivator had been born.


    Huh?


    Upon advancing to the mid-stage Core Formation stage, Lan Chang''an noticed that his Evergreen Core had taken on an even more distinct fruit-like form. Its surface emanated an ethereal, dream-like fragrance that was far stronger than before.


    Suddenly¡ª


    The Evergreen Core quivered again, sending ripples into Lan Chang''an¡¯s sea of consciousness, giving rise to an inexplicable sense of fate and direction.


    "There!"


    Lan Chang''an¡¯s head turned sharply, his pitch-ck eyes gleaming with a piercing, icy light as he gazed toward the Great Qing Central Region.


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